Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.2.47
Mukti· LiberationWorship Includes Respect for Others
“A devotee who faithfully engages in the worship of the Deity in the temple but does not behave properly toward other devotees or people in general is called a prākṛta-bhakta, a materialistic devotee, and is considered to be in the lowest position.”
What the purport teaches
- A prākṛta-bhakta, or materialistic devotee, faithfully worships the Deity but does not behave properly toward devotees or people in general. Such a devotee has not understood that the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Kṛṣṇa, is everywhere.
- God should be worshiped everywhere through devotional service, not only in the temple. Everything belongs to the Lord and should be used in His service.
- Pride in ceremonial worship can lead a beginner to criticize or neglect more advanced devotees. Following the rules of Deity worship gradually leads toward pure devotion, but offenses against devotees check that advancement.
Try this today
Today, offer sincere respect to one devotee you might otherwise overlook.
Ask yourself
Does my behavior toward others reflect the respect I offer the Lord in worship?
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.