Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.21.5
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesTrue Greatness Remains Humble
“When the King entered the palace, conchshells and kettledrums were sounded, priests chanted Vedic mantras, and professional reciters offered different prayers. But in spite of all this ceremony to welcome him, the King was not the least bit affected.”
What the purport teaches
- Conchshells and kettledrums sounded as the King entered the palace, while priests chanted Vedic mantras and reciters offered prayers.
- Although the reception was full of opulence, the King did not become proud.
- A tree laden with fruits and flowers bends downward rather than standing erect in pride. Such submissiveness marks the character of great personalities.
Try this today
Accept one compliment today with a simple thank-you, without adding praise of yourself.
Ask yourself
When I receive praise, do I become proud or remain humble?
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.