Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.31.11
Āśraya· The supreme shelterKnowledge and Abilities Fulfill Their Purpose Through Devotion
“Without devotional service, what is the meaning of severe austerities, the process of hearing, the power of speech, the power of mental speculation, elevated intelligence, strength, and the power of the senses?”
What the purport teaches
- The essence of Vedic knowledge is Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Study alone does not advance our relationship with Him if we miss this essence.
- Severe austerities, impressive speech, and thoughtful speculation cannot replace devotional service. The Supreme Personality of Godhead is understood through devotion.
- Animals may have senses much keener than ours, but this does not make their existence more important. Our intelligence, strength, and senses fulfill their purpose when they help us realize the Supreme.
Try this today
Read one paragraph of this purport aloud, then identify what it teaches about knowing Kṛṣṇa through devotion.
Ask yourself
Am I using my learning and abilities to understand Kṛṣṇa, or mainly to impress others and satisfy my senses?
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.