Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.11.31
Mukti· LiberationCheck Anger Through Constant Hearing
“My dear King, just consider what I have said to you, which will act as medicinal treatment upon disease. Control your anger, for anger is the foremost enemy on the path of spiritual realization. I wish all good fortune for you. Please follow my instructions.”
What the purport teaches
- Dhruva Mahārāja’s anger had a purpose in his duty as king, but anger can increase without limit. Manu checked him so that his anger would not go too far.
- Constantly hearing about devotional service checks the force of anger. Hearing about the Supreme Personality of Godhead helps one remain balanced and protects spiritual progress.
- A devotee is nonviolent but may need to show temporary anger to stop wrongdoing. This is different from allowing anger to grow beyond control.
Try this today
Spend five minutes today hearing a passage about the Supreme Personality of Godhead, giving it your full attention.
Ask yourself
How can I distinguish a necessary firm response from anger that is growing beyond its purpose?
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.