Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 7.4.9-12
Ūti· What drives us to actHeavenly Luxury Cannot Ensure Peace
“The steps of King Indra’s residence were made of coral, the floor was bedecked with invaluable emeralds, the walls were of crystal, and the columns of vaidūrya stone. The wonderful canopies were beautifully decorated, the seats were bedecked with rubies, and the silk bedding, as white as foam, was decorated with pearls. The ladies of the palace, who were blessed with beautiful teeth and the most wonderfully beautiful faces, walked here and there in the palace, their ankle bells tinkling melodiously, and saw their own beautiful reflections in the gems. The demigods, however, being very much oppressed, had to bow down and offer obeisances at the feet of Hiraṇyakaśipu, who chastised the demigods very severely and for no reason. Thus Hiraṇyakaśipu lived in the palace and severely ruled everyone.”
What the purport teaches
- Indra’s palace contained coral steps, emerald floors, crystal walls and richly decorated furnishings. Yet Hiraṇyakaśipu’s rule brought severe oppression.
- All the demigods except Lord Brahmā, Lord Śiva and Lord Viṣṇu were forced into his service. Even great sages were placed under his control.
- Even the higher planets, reached through pious activities, suffer disturbances caused by asuras. No one in the three worlds can live in undisturbed peace and prosperity.
Try this today
Notice one comfort you enjoy today, and reflect briefly on why it cannot guarantee lasting peace.
Ask yourself
Do I assume that greater comfort or status will guarantee freedom from disturbance?
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.