Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 5.15.11
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutySatisfying Others Through Principled Service
“Although King Gaya had no personal desire for sense gratification, all his desires were fulfilled by virtue of his performance of Vedic rituals. All the kings with whom Mahārāja Gaya had to fight were forced to fight on religious principles. They were very satisfied with his fighting, and they would present all kinds of gifts to him. Similarly, all the brāhmaṇas in his kingdom were very satisfied with King Gaya’s munificent charities. Consequently the brāhmaṇas contributed a sixth of their pious activities for King Gaya’s benefit in the next life.”
What the purport teaches
- Mahārāja Gaya fought to maintain his government according to religious principles. Even the subordinate kings were satisfied and offered him gifts.
- His charities satisfied the brāhmaṇas, while kind words and affectionate dealings encouraged the vaiśyas. Sumptuous food and charity satisfied the śūdras.
- Honored brāhmaṇas and saintly persons share their pious activities with those who serve them. The purport therefore teaches us to approach a spiritual master submissively and render service.
Try this today
Offer one small, practical service to a spiritual teacher or saintly person today.
Ask yourself
How can I make my dealings with others more kind and principled?
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.