Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.16.11
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyGentle Respect Captivates the Lord
“On the other hand, they captivate My heart who are gladdened in heart and who, their lotus faces enlightened by nectarean smiles, respect the brāhmaṇas, even though the brāhmaṇas utter harsh words. They look upon the brāhmaṇas as My own Self and pacify them by praising them in loving words, even as a son would appease an angry father or as I am pacifying you.”
What the purport teaches
- When brāhmaṇas or Vaiṣṇavas speak harshly, one should not respond with the same harshness. Jaya and Vijaya submitted rather than seeking revenge.
- Brāhmaṇas and Vaiṣṇavas should be accepted as earthly representatives of Nārāyaṇa. One should try to pacify them with mild treatment and loving words.
- A lotuslike face expresses love and affection. The Lord says that those who offer such heartfelt respect captivate His heart.
Try this today
Today, pause before answering a harsh remark and choose mild, respectful words.
Ask yourself
How can I respond to harsh words with genuine gentleness rather than retaliation?
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.