Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 7.4.19
Ūti· What drives us to actServing the Senses Cannot Bring Satisfaction
“In spite of achieving the power to control in all directions and in spite of enjoying all types of dear sense gratification as much as possible, Hiraṇyakaśipu was dissatisfied because instead of controlling his senses he remained their servant.”
What the purport teaches
- Hiraṇyakaśipu controlled all directions and enjoyed pleasing sense objects as much as possible. Still, he was dissatisfied because he remained a servant of his senses.
- Material advancement can create great comfort for the senses without bringing satisfaction. Increasing enjoyment does not free someone from being controlled by the senses.
- Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that human society cannot be happy and peaceful without Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Hiraṇyakaśipu vividly illustrates this dissatisfied condition.
Try this today
Pause before one unnecessary indulgence today and reflect on whether you are directing your senses or serving them.
Ask yourself
Where do I keep seeking more enjoyment without finding lasting satisfaction?
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.