Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.23.22-23
Āśraya· The supreme shelterThe Supreme Master Brings Happiness to All
“O King Parīkṣit, Indra was considered the King of all the universe, but the demigods, headed by Lord Brahmā, wanted Upendra, Lord Vāmanadeva, as the protector of the Vedas, the principles of religion, fame, opulence, auspiciousness, vows, elevation to the higher planetary system, and liberation. Thus they accepted Upendra, Lord Vāmanadeva, as the supreme master of everything. This decision made all living entities extremely happy.”
What the purport teaches
- Although Indra was considered king of the universe, the demigods headed by Lord Brahmā accepted Upendra, Lord Vāmanadeva, as the supreme master of everything.
- They wanted Him as protector of the Vedas, religious principles, fame, opulence, auspiciousness and vows. His protection also extended to elevation to the higher planetary system and liberation.
- Their decision to accept Lord Vāmanadeva as supreme master made all living entities extremely happy.
Try this today
Offer a brief prayer acknowledging Lord Vāmanadeva as supreme master and expressing your wish to serve Him.
Ask yourself
What would it mean for me to acknowledge the Lord as master of everything, rather than only one part of my life?
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.