Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 6.12.16
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesPerform Your Duty Despite Adversity
“O my enemy, just look at me. I have already been defeated, for my weapon and arm have been cut to pieces. You have already overwhelmed me, but nonetheless, with a desire to kill you, I am trying my best to fight. I am not at all morose, even under such adverse conditions. Therefore you should give up your moroseness and continue fighting.”
What the purport teaches
- Although his weapon and arm had been cut to pieces, Vṛtrāsura was not discouraged. He continued trying according to his ability.
- Vṛtrāsura knew that Indra would defeat him and voluntarily accepted that outcome. Still, he performed his duty as Indra’s opponent.
- Through his instructions, Vṛtrāsura was effectively acting as Indra’s spiritual master. His example teaches that one should perform one’s duty under all circumstances.
Try this today
Take one concrete step in a duty you have been avoiding because its outcome seems discouraging.
Ask yourself
What duty am I tempted to neglect because I expect an unfavorable result?
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.