Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 5.11.17
Mukti· LiberationConquer the Mind Through Devotional Service
“This uncontrolled mind is the greatest enemy of the living entity. If one neglects it or gives it a chance, it will grow more and more powerful and will become victorious. Although it is not factual, it is very strong. It covers the constitutional position of the soul. O King, please try to conquer this mind by the weapon of service to the lotus feet of the spiritual master and of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Do this with great care.”
What the purport teaches
- The uncontrolled mind covers the soul’s constitutional position and grows stronger when left unchecked. Rather than obeying its demands, one should train it to obey the soul.
- One should become expert in disobeying the mind’s orders. Following the spiritual master’s instructions and engaging in the Lord’s service brings the mind under control.
- Real life begins when one receives the seed of devotional service through the mercy of the guru and Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. By following the spiritual master, one becomes freed from serving the mind.
Try this today
Today, decline one distracting demand of the mind and use that time to carefully study and follow an instruction on the Lord’s service.
Ask yourself
Which demand of my mind could I decline in order to give attention to devotional service?
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.