Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.5.19-20
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesRemember the Lord, Care for Everyone
“Upon seeing that the demigods were bereft of all influence and strength and that the three worlds were consequently devoid of auspiciousness, and upon seeing that the demigods were in an awkward position whereas all the demons were flourishing, Lord Brahmā, who is above all the demigods and who is most powerful, concentrated his mind on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Thus being encouraged, he became bright-faced and spoke to the demigods as follows.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Brahmā was concerned to see the demigods without strength and the demons flourishing. The three worlds were consequently devoid of auspiciousness.
- Demons are interested in their own sense gratification, whereas demigods or devotees are concerned with the welfare of all living beings. This concern for others is the nature of a saintly person.
- Although most powerful among the demigods, Lord Brahmā concentrated his mind on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Encouraged, he became bright-faced and spoke.
Try this today
Before responding to one difficulty today, pause to remember the Supreme Lord and consider how your response could benefit others.
Ask yourself
Does your response to difficulty consider others’ welfare as well as your own?
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.