Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.9.32
Ūti· What drives us to actTake Spiritual Instructions Seriously
“Since all the demigods who are situated in the higher planetary system will have to come down again, they are all envious of my being elevated to Vaikuṇṭhaloka by devotional service. These intolerant demigods have dissipated my intelligence, and only for this reason could I not accept the genuine benediction of the instructions of Sage Nārada.”
What the purport teaches
- The demigods’ heavenly positions are temporary. They fear losing their posts and must return to earth when the results of their pious activities are exhausted.
- Dhruva Mahārāja regretted neglecting Nārada Muni’s instructions. His desire for revenge and his father’s kingdom had kept him attached to perishable things.
- Despite Dhruva’s contaminated desires, the Lord responded mercifully to his devotional service. He offered Dhruva the ultimate Vaiṣṇava goal.
Try this today
Pause over one remembered insult today and reflect on Nārada’s advice not to be absorbed in insult or adoration.
Ask yourself
When might hurt pride prevent me from taking spiritual guidance seriously?
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.