Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.31.7
Mukti· LiberationSeek Knowledge, Not Material Blessings
“Dear master, kindly enlighten us in transcendental knowledge, which may act as a torchlight by which we may cross the dark nescience of material existence.”
What the purport teaches
- The Pracetās asked Nārada for transcendental knowledge that would act like a torchlight. They wanted to cross the darkness of material existence.
- They were not seeking material benefits or the fulfillment of material desires. Having enjoyed material life sufficiently, they wanted freedom from its bondage.
- One should approach a saintly person for spiritual enlightenment. Asking for blessings merely to enjoy the material world is not recommended.
Try this today
Write one question about freedom from material attachment rather than the fulfillment of a material desire.
Ask yourself
When I seek spiritual guidance, am I asking for enlightenment or merely greater material comfort?
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.