Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.29.32
Mukti· LiberationLive Knowledge Through Selfless Devotional Service
“Better than the brāhmaṇa who knows the purpose of the Vedas is he who can dissipate all doubts, and better than him is one who strictly follows the brahminical principles. Better than him is one who is liberated from all material contamination, and better than him is a pure devotee, who executes devotional service without expectation of reward.”
What the purport teaches
- Knowing the purpose of the Vedas is valuable, and being able to clear doubts about the Absolute Truth is better. Yet learning and explanation must be accompanied by following the principles.
- An ācārya understands the Vedic injunctions, practices them and teaches disciples accordingly. He executes devotional service without desire for elevation to a higher position.
- The verse places pure devotional service without expectation of reward above freedom from material contamination. The highest Vaiṣṇava sees everything in the Absolute Truth and the Absolute Truth in everything.
Try this today
Perform one small act of devotional service today without seeking praise or reward.
Ask yourself
Which teaching do I understand but still need to put into practice?
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.