Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.14.16
Ūti· What drives us to actDevotion Gives Strength for Self-Control
“O hero [Vidura], Diti, being thus afflicted by the contamination of lust, and therefore poor and talkative, was pacified by the son of Marīci in suitable words.”
What the purport teaches
- The purport describes overpowering sexual lust as sinful contamination. Diti's agitation made her distressed and excessively talkative.
- Kaśyapa was engaged in spiritual activities, but lacked the strength to refuse her firmly. His pacifying words also reflected his own inclination toward enjoyment.
- Vidura is addressed as a hero because no one is stronger in self-control than a devotee of the Lord. Devotional strength is greater than merely soothing an agitated desire.
Try this today
When a distracting desire arises today, pause and return to one spiritual activity instead of immediately acting on it.
Ask yourself
Where do I need the strength of devotion rather than simply gentler words about my desires?
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.