Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 2.6.35
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesKnow the Lord Through Eager Service
“Although I am known as the great Brahmā, perfect in the disciplic succession of Vedic wisdom, and although I have undergone all austerities and am an expert in mystic powers and self-realization, and although I am recognized as such by the great forefathers of the living entities, who offer me respectful obeisances, still I cannot understand Him, the Lord, the very source of my birth.”
What the purport teaches
- Even Brahmā's learning, austerities, mystic powers and self-realization were insufficient to know the Lord. He could understand Him to a little extent only through heartfelt eagerness to serve.
- Spiritual qualifications can help one approach devotional service, but without devotion one remains imperfect. The Personality of Godhead is known to some extent through self-surrender and a devotional attitude, never in full.
- Devotional service does not aim at losing one's individuality. Devotees are satisfied simply to serve the Lord, regardless of their situation, rather than seeking any kind of liberation.
Try this today
Read a short passage of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam today with a sincere desire to understand and serve the Lord.
Ask yourself
Am I approaching the Lord mainly through what I know, or through an eager desire 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.