Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 9.10.54
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyTeach Good Conduct Through Personal Example
“Lord Rāmacandra took a vow to accept only one wife and have no connection with any other women. He was a saintly king, and everything in His character was good, untinged by qualities like anger. He taught good behavior for everyone, especially for householders, in terms of varṇāśrama-dharma. Thus He taught the general public by His personal activities.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Rāmacandra accepted only one wife, mother Sītā, and set a glorious example of faithfulness. Although He is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, He rescued His wife rather than accepting another.
- As a saintly king of pure character, He taught good behavior through His own activities. His example especially instructs householders.
- Living with a wife and children is not condemned when one follows the principles of varṇāśrama-dharma. Householders, brahmacārīs and vānaprasthas who follow these principles are equally important.
Try this today
Fulfill one responsibility today with care, letting your conduct—not merely your words—set a good example.
Ask yourself
What does my behavior teach others about faithfulness and responsibility?
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.