Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 2.9.35
Āśraya· The supreme shelterThe Lord Is Within Everything and Beyond
“O Brahmā, please know that the universal elements enter into the cosmos and at the same time do not enter into the cosmos; similarly, I Myself also exist within everything created, and at the same time I am outside of everything.”
What the purport teaches
- Earth, water, fire, air and ether enter material bodies, yet also exist beyond them. Similarly, the Supreme Lord is within everything through His energies and also remains outside everything in His own abode.
- Govinda, the Personality of Godhead, enters every universe and every atom without losing His personal form. Pure devotees can perceive His presence while also understanding His eternal pastimes in Goloka.
- This mystery is revealed through love of Godhead, not intellectual speculation alone. Such love is attained only through transcendental loving service, which purifies the devotee’s vision.
Try this today
Spend a quiet minute worshiping Govinda in your heart, remembering that He is present everywhere and also remains in His own abode.
Ask yourself
How might remembering the Lord’s presence help me approach devotional service with greater care?
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.