Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.12.14
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyFulfill Duties Without Attachment to Enjoyment
“The self-controlled great soul Dhruva Mahārāja thus passed many, many years favorably executing three kinds of worldly activities, namely religiosity, economic development and satisfaction of all material desires. Thereafter he handed over the charge of the royal throne to his son.”
What the purport teaches
- Dhruva Mahārāja carried out his royal duties perfectly while remaining self-controlled. Though his senses retained their strength, he was not interested in sense gratification.
- When his son was ready to rule, Dhruva Mahārāja handed over the throne and retired from material engagements. He did not cling to his position.
- Devotees can remain inwardly detached while outwardly performing their duties properly. Their senses are engaged in higher, transcendental activities rather than controlled merely by force.
Try this today
Complete one responsibility carefully today while keeping your mind inwardly directed toward devotional service.
Ask yourself
Can I carry out my responsibilities carefully without becoming attached to position or enjoyment?
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.