Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 5.6.16
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesHear Attentively and Attain Pure Devotion
“Śukadeva Gosvāmī continued: Lord Ṛṣabhadeva is the master of all Vedic knowledge, human beings, demigods, cows and brāhmaṇas. I have already explained His pure, transcendental activities, which will vanquish the sinful activities of all living entities. This narration of Lord Ṛṣabhadeva’s pastimes is the reservoir of all auspicious things. Whoever attentively hears or speaks of them, following in the footsteps of the ācāryas, will certainly attain unalloyed devotional service at the lotus feet of Lord Vāsudeva, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Ṛṣabhadeva’s instructions are meant for people of all ages, especially Kali-yuga. Attentive hearing or explaining them in the footsteps of the ācāryas leads to pure devotional service to Lord Vāsudeva.
- The Lord’s pastimes and those of His devotees are recorded in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam to purify those who hear and recite them. Devotees should read, speak and hear it persistently.
- Chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra or reading Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam helps us understand the Supreme Lord’s characteristics and instructions. Knowing the transcendental nature of His birth and activities frees one from material bondage.
Try this today
Spend five undistracted minutes reading this verse and purport aloud.
Ask yourself
What would help me hear the Lord’s instructions with greater attention?
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.