Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 2.3.24 · one of the 108 chosen verses
Mukti· LiberationDevotion Means a Genuine Change of Heart
“Certainly that heart is steel-framed which, in spite of one’s chanting the holy name of the Lord with concentration, does not change when ecstasy takes place, tears fill the eyes and the hairs stand on end.”
What the purport teaches
- Spiritual culture aims to awaken our eternal position as the Supreme Lord’s subordinate servant. Progress appears as less desire for material enjoyment and greater willingness to render loving service.
- Hearing and chanting are the basic principles of devotional service, and we should carefully avoid offenses to the holy name. Tears and other ecstatic symptoms may arise naturally, but they should never be imitated.
- Outward ecstatic signs are not always visible, even in an advanced devotee. Steady devotion is shown by freedom from material desires, careful use of time in the Lord’s service, eagerness to glorify Him and pridelessness.
Try this today
Spend a few minutes attentively chanting the Lord’s holy name today, seeking loving service rather than an outward display of emotion.
Ask yourself
Is my hearing and chanting helping me become less proud and more willing to serve?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.