Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.27.55
Ūti· What drives us to actDo Not Support Theft of Worship Items
“Not only the performer of the theft but also anyone who assists him, instigates the crime, or simply approves of it must also share the reaction in the next life. According to their degree of participation, they each must suffer a proportionate consequence.”
What the purport teaches
- Stealing items meant for worshiping the Supreme Lord or His authorized representatives should be avoided at all costs.
- The person who steals is not the only one responsible. Anyone who assists, instigates or simply approves of the theft also shares the reaction in the next life.
- Each person suffers a consequence proportionate to their degree of participation.
Try this today
Leave items set aside for worship in their designated place, and ask permission before taking or using them.
Ask yourself
Am I careful not to encourage or approve of taking items meant for 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.