Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.18.29
Mukti· LiberationPlease Kṛṣṇa Rather Than Seek Prestige
“Although most wise, the paramahaṁsa should enjoy life like a child, oblivious to honor and dishonor; although most expert, he should behave like a stunted, incompetent person; although most learned, he should speak like an insane person; and although a scholar learned in Vedic regulations, he should behave in an unrestricted manner.”
What the purport teaches
- A paramahaṁsa may conceal his wisdom and spiritual position to avoid distracting prestige. His mission is to remain detached and please the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
- His freedom from ordinary religious customs never means sinful or immoral behavior. He may neglect external dress, ceremonies or particular austerities.
- Those spreading the Lord's holy name should present Kṛṣṇa consciousness in a way people can accept. They should make Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa popular rather than promote their own prestige.
Try this today
Do one small act of devotional service today without drawing attention to yourself.
Ask yourself
In my service, am I seeking Kṛṣṇa's pleasure or recognition for myself?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
From Canto 10, chapter 14 onward, the translation and purports were completed by Śrīla Prabhupāda's disciples after his departure, and published by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.