Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.2.20
Ūti· What drives us to actFollow Śiva’s Example of Tolerance
“Upon understanding that Lord Śiva had been cursed, Nandīśvara, one of Lord Śiva’s principal associates, became greatly angry. His eyes became red, and he prepared to curse Dakṣa and all the brāhmaṇas present there who had tolerated Dakṣa’s cursing Śiva in harsh words.”
What the purport teaches
- Nandīśvara became greatly angry when Lord Śiva was cursed. Yet Śiva himself remained silent and tolerant, although he could have cursed Dakṣa.
- The purport says it was right for a follower not to tolerate an insult to his master. Still, Nandīśvara should not have cursed the brāhmaṇas present.
- The material atmosphere is so unsteady that even prominent personalities can become infected by anger. Those who were not strong enough forgot their positions, and cursing and countercursing followed.
Try this today
When you hear harsh words today, pause before responding and avoid blaming everyone present.
Ask yourself
Can I respond to an insult without spreading anger to others?
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.