Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.8.5
Mukti· LiberationBe Pleasant and Deep Like the Ocean
“A saintly sage is happy and pleasing in his external behavior, whereas internally he is most grave and thoughtful. Because his knowledge is immeasurable and unlimited he is never disturbed, and thus in all respects he is like the tranquil waters of the unfathomable and unsurpassable ocean.”
What the purport teaches
- A self-realized sage is friendly and pleasing outwardly, while inwardly grave and thoughtful. Like the ocean, he remains calm and peaceful.
- Even in great distress, he does not lose self-control or spiritual knowledge. His mind is fixed on the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the reservoir of unlimited spiritual bliss.
- A pure devotee gains great spiritual strength by taking shelter of the Lord's lotus feet. Having given up life based on lust and greed, he cannot be overwhelmed.
Try this today
Before one difficult conversation today, pause to remember the Lord and resolve to speak pleasantly.
Ask yourself
How can I be kind outwardly while keeping my mind fixed on the Lord?
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.