Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 6.13.22-23
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesHear and Repeat the Lord’s Glories
“In this very great narrative there is glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Nārāyaṇa, there are statements about the exaltedness of devotional service, there are descriptions of devotees like Indra and Vṛtrāsura, and there are statements about King Indra’s release from sinful life and about his victory in fighting the demons. By understanding this incident, one is relieved of all sinful reactions. Therefore the learned are always advised to read this narration. If one does so, one will become expert in the activities of the senses, his opulence will increase, and his reputation will become widespread. One will also be relieved of all sinful reactions, he will conquer all his enemies, and the duration of his life will increase. Because this narration is auspicious in all respects, learned scholars regularly hear and repeat it on every festival day.”
What the purport teaches
- This narration glorifies the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Nārāyaṇa, and the exaltedness of devotional service. It also describes devotees such as Indra and Vṛtrāsura.
- Understanding this incident relieves one of sinful reactions, so the learned are advised to read it regularly. Its stated benefits include increased opulence, reputation and duration of life, mastery of the senses and victory over enemies.
- Because the narration is auspicious in every respect, learned scholars regularly hear and repeat it on festival days. Its devotional focus is the glorification of the Lord and His devotees.
Try this today
Read this translation aloud today, paying special attention to its glorification of Nārāyaṇa and devotional service.
Ask yourself
When I read this narration, do I notice its praise of devotional service as well as its promised benefits?
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.