Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.23.6
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesSelfless Service Supports Spiritual Progress
“Kardama Muni said: O respectful daughter of Svāyambhuva Manu, today I am very much pleased with you for your great devotion and most excellent loving service. Since the body is so dear to embodied beings, I am astonished that you have neglected your own body to use it on my behalf.”
What the purport teaches
- Kardama Muni was deeply pleased by Devahūti’s devotion, respect and excellent loving service. He was astonished that she had spent her bodily strength on his behalf.
- The purport calls her service selfless because she continually assisted his spiritual elevation without seeking bodily comfort. Her concern was to facilitate his spiritual engagement.
- The purport especially emphasizes helping a husband engaged in Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Kardama also amply rewarded Devahūti, while the purport cautions against expecting this from an ordinary husband.
Try this today
Help with one small task that gives someone time for their practice of Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
Ask yourself
How can I help someone’s spiritual progress without seeking a personal reward?
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.