Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.1.19
Mukti· LiberationMake Pleasing Hari Your First Duty
“While so traversing the earth, he simply performed duties to please the Supreme Lord Hari. His occupation was pure and independent. He was constantly sanctified by taking his bath in holy places, although he was in the dress of a mendicant and had no hair dressing nor a bed on which to lie. Thus he was always unseen by his various relatives.”
What the purport teaches
- The first and foremost duty of a pilgrim is to satisfy the Supreme Lord Hari. Vidura performed his duties with this purpose.
- A pilgrim should not be absorbed in pleasing society or depending on social formalities and dress. Vidura traveled simply, without concern for outward appearance or comfort.
- One should remain absorbed in pleasing the Lord. By becoming sanctified in thought and action, a pilgrim can realize the Supreme Lord.
Try this today
Choose one act of service today and do it to please the Lord, without seeking recognition.
Ask yourself
Is my attention directed more toward pleasing the Lord or gaining social approval?
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.