Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.12.39
Ūti· What drives us to actLord Śiva’s Unique Position Beyond Māyā
“My dear Lord Śambhu, who within this material world but you can surpass My illusory energy? People are generally attached to sense enjoyment and conquered by its influence. Indeed, the influence of material nature is very difficult for them to surmount.”
What the purport teaches
- People attached to sense enjoyment are generally conquered by the Lord’s illusory energy. Its influence is very difficult for those without sense control to overcome.
- Although Lord Śiva associates with māyā, he is not affected by her. The purport distinguishes his position from that of living entities swayed by māyā.
- Lord Śiva is neither viṣṇu-tattva nor jīva-tattva. His position is between the two.
Try this today
Identify one unnecessary sense pleasure and refrain from it once today as a small exercise in restraint.
Ask yourself
Which attachment reminds me that I should not underestimate māyā’s influence?
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.