Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 5.10.15
Mukti· LiberationHear Humbly and Value Human Life
“Śukadeva Gosvāmī continued: O best of the Pāṇḍu dynasty [Mahārāja Parīkṣit], the King of the Sindhu and Sauvīra states [Mahārāja Rahūgaṇa] had great faith in discussions of the Absolute Truth. Being thus qualified, he heard from Jaḍa Bharata that philosophical presentation which is approved by all scriptures on the mystic yoga process and which slackens the knot in the heart. His material conception of himself as a king was thus destroyed. He immediately descended from his palanquin and fell flat on the ground with his head at the lotus feet of Jaḍa Bharata in such a way that he might be excused for his insulting words against the great brāhmaṇa. He then prayed as follows.”
What the purport teaches
- Spiritual knowledge was received through disciplic succession by saintly kings. They understood life’s purpose and guided citizens toward freedom from repeated birth and death.
- Mahārāja Rahūgaṇa had faith in inquiry into the Absolute Truth. Hearing Jaḍa Bharata’s teaching destroyed his material conception of himself as king.
- Recognizing the value of the teaching, the King regretted his insulting words. He bowed at Jaḍa Bharata’s feet to seek forgiveness and hear further.
Try this today
Reread one teaching here that challenges your pride, and write one sincere question about it.
Ask yourself
Am I willing to set aside pride when spiritual instruction corrects me?
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.