Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.20.2
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyAccept What Favors Devotional Service
“Bali Mahārāja said: As you have already stated, the principle of religion that does not hinder one’s economic development, sense gratification, fame and means of livelihood is the real occupational duty of the householder. I also think that this religious principle is correct.”
What the purport teaches
- Śukrācārya emphasized protecting a householder's livelihood, reputation, sense gratification and economic development.
- A devotee is determined to serve the Supreme Personality of Godhead to His full satisfaction. The principle of bhakti is to accept what is favorable and reject what is unfavorable to that service.
- Bali Mahārāja recognized Śukrācārya's material argument as a hindrance to devotional service. He rejected that advice and gave his possessions to Lord Vāmanadeva.
Try this today
Choose one activity favorable to devotional service today, and set aside one small distraction that hinders it.
Ask yourself
What material concern sometimes weakens my determination to serve the Lord?
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.