Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 3.33.17
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesHousehold Possessions With Lasting Value
“The walls of the house were made of first-class marble, decorated with valuable jewels. There was no need of light, for the household was illuminated by the rays of these jewels. The female members of the household were all amply decorated with jewelry.”
What the purport teaches
- The marble walls were decorated with valuable jewels whose rays illuminated the house. The women of the household were also richly adorned with jewelry.
- Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that household articles in Vedic civilization had actual value, including furniture, utensils, ornaments and garments.
- Such possessions could be exchanged for money in times of need. Even broken or unwanted household articles would not be without value.
Try this today
Examine one household item today and consider its lasting usefulness and exchange value.
Ask yourself
Do I consider lasting value when choosing household possessions?
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.