Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.23.46
Mukti· LiberationRituals Must Lead to a Pacified Mind
“If one’s mind is perfectly fixed and pacified, then tell me what need does one have to perform ritualistic charity and other pious rituals? And if one’s mind remains uncontrolled, lost in ignorance, then of what use are these engagements for him?”
What the purport teaches
- The verse asks what further need there is for ritualistic charity when the mind is perfectly fixed and pacified.
- It also questions the usefulness of these engagements when the mind remains uncontrolled and lost in ignorance.
- The contrast directs attention to the condition of the mind, rather than merely the performance of rituals.
Try this today
During one spiritual practice today, slow down and give it your full attention rather than rushing to finish.
Ask yourself
Is my practice helping to steady my mind, or am I simply completing an outward activity?
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.