Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.23.1-3
Mukti· LiberationFulfill Duties and Prepare for Godhead
“At the last stage of his life, when Mahārāja Pṛthu saw himself getting old, that great soul, who was king of the world, divided whatever opulence he had accumulated amongst all kinds of living entities, moving and nonmoving. He arranged pensions for everyone according to religious principles, and after executing the orders of the Supreme Personality of Godhead in complete coordination with Him, he dedicated his sons unto the earth, which was considered to be his daughter. Then Mahārāja Pṛthu left the presence of his citizens, who were almost lamenting and crying from feeling separation from the King, and went to the forest alone with his wife to perform austerities.”
What the purport teaches
- Mahārāja Pṛthu appeared as an empowered representative of Kṛṣṇa to execute the Supreme Lord’s orders. The Lord desires that living entities live happily and carry out their duties.
- After settling the affairs of the world, Pṛthu provided for his citizens and entrusted the rule to his sons. He was exemplary both in government and in retirement.
- Pṛthu went to the forest with his wife so that together they could perform austerities. His example teaches timely preparation for returning to Godhead and fully accepting the Supreme Lord’s shelter.
Try this today
Set aside five quiet minutes today to consider how you can give spiritual life a more regular place in your responsibilities.
Ask yourself
How can I fulfill my responsibilities while making room to prepare for returning to Godhead?
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.