Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.21.38
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesLearn Respect from Kṛṣṇa’s Example
“The Supreme Personality of Godhead, the ancient, eternal Godhead, who is foremost amongst all great personalities, obtained the opulence of His staunch reputation, which purifies the entire universe, by worshiping the lotus feet of those brāhmaṇas and Vaiṣṇavas.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, protects brahminical culture and the cow. Goodness and Vaiṣṇava culture help one appreciate Him, whereas ignorance and passion make this difficult.
- The Lord is eternally perfect and needs no material gain. His respect for brāhmaṇas and Vaiṣṇavas teaches us to honor them, cultivate brahminical qualities and protect cows.
- Unlike material wealth and fame, the Lord’s opulences exist eternally. Discussing His opulences purifies the universe.
Try this today
Offer a sincere expression of respect to a Vaiṣṇava today.
Ask yourself
How can Kṛṣṇa’s example guide the way I show respect to His devotees?
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.