Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 7.15.54
Mukti· LiberationBeyond Material Designations
“On his path of ascent, the progressive living entity enters the different worlds of fire, the sun, the day, the end of the day, the bright fortnight, the full moon, and the passing of the sun in the north, along with their presiding demigods. When he enters Brahmaloka, he enjoys life for many millions of years, and finally his material designation comes to an end. He then comes to a subtle designation, from which he attains the causal designation, witnessing all previous states. Upon the annihilation of this causal state, he attains his pure state, in which he identifies with the Supersoul. In this way the living entity becomes transcendental.”
What the purport teaches
- The progressive living entity ascends through different worlds with their presiding demigods. Upon entering Brahmaloka, he enjoys life for many millions of years.
- Eventually his material designation ends, and he passes through subtle and causal designations. In the causal state, he witnesses the previous states.
- When the causal state also ends, the living entity attains his pure state and identifies with the Supersoul. In this way he becomes transcendental.
Try this today
Take a minute to reflect on one bodily designation you use for yourself and its temporary nature.
Ask yourself
What does this progression suggest about the difference between a temporary designation and the soul’s pure state?
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.