Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.14.28
Ūti· What drives us to actServe Kṛṣṇa Rather Than Imitate Śiva
“Unfortunate, foolish persons, not knowing that he is engaged in his own self, laugh at him. Such foolish persons engage in maintaining the body — which is eatable by dogs — with dresses, ornaments, garlands and ointments.”
What the purport teaches
- Those who treat the temporary body as the self may lavish attention on its decoration while laughing at Śiva’s simplicity. They do not understand his purpose.
- Seeking bodily comforts or oneness with Śiva does not reveal his real aim. Imitating his extraordinary acts by using intoxicants leads to ruin.
- Lord Śiva’s real purpose is to serve Lord Kṛṣṇa, the Soul of the soul. He desires that fine garments, garlands, ornaments and cosmetics be offered to Kṛṣṇa, the real enjoyer.
Try this today
Offer a flower to Lord Kṛṣṇa today, remembering Śiva’s desire to serve Him.
Ask yourself
Am I trying to enjoy fine things myself, or remembering Kṛṣṇa as the real enjoyer?
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.