Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 5.13.21
Mukti· LiberationTreasure Human Birth and Devotee Association
“King Rahūgaṇa said: This birth as a human being is the best of all. Even birth among the demigods in the heavenly planets is not as glorious as birth as a human being on this earth. What is the use of the exalted position of a demigod? In the heavenly planets, due to profuse material comforts, there is no possibility of associating with devotees.”
What the purport teaches
- Human birth is a great opportunity for self-realization. Abundant material comforts, even among the demigods, can keep one bound to material life.
- Anyone sincerely seeking freedom from material bondage must associate with pure devotees. Such association gradually frees one from attachment to money and sexual attraction.
- Resources and relationships can be used in the Lord’s service rather than for material enjoyment. Even a little association with a pure devotee can make one’s journey back to Godhead successful.
Try this today
Spend a few minutes today hearing a pure devotee glorify the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Ask yourself
Do I value opportunities to associate with devotees more than opportunities for 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.