Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.3.20
Ūti· What drives us to actSeek Kṛṣṇa Beyond Temporary Material Rewards
“One cannot find permanent happiness even on the heavenly planets, which one can attain in the next life by ritualistic ceremonies and sacrifices. Even in material heaven the living entity is disturbed by rivalry with his equals and envy of those superior to him. And since one’s residence in heaven is finished with the exhaustion of pious fruitive activities, the denizens of heaven are afflicted by fear, anticipating the destruction of their heavenly life. Thus they resemble kings who, though enviously admired by ordinary citizens, are constantly harassed by enemy kings and who therefore never attain actual happiness.”
What the purport teaches
- Even heavenly pleasure gained through pious activities is temporary. When the results of those activities are exhausted, heavenly life ends.
- Heavenly residents still experience rivalry, envy and fear of losing their position. Higher material status does not free anyone from anxiety or death.
- Both favorable and unfavorable bodily circumstances pass away, so everyone should endeavor to become Kṛṣṇa conscious. Lasting happiness requires loving Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, rather than trying to enjoy independently of Him.
Try this today
When you notice envy of someone’s advantages today, pause and express your desire to take shelter of Kṛṣṇa instead.
Ask yourself
Am I seeking a better temporary position, or developing love for Kṛṣṇa?
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.