Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Ādi 17.111
Protecting Cows Is Pious Service
“In My last birth I was born in the family of cowherd men, and I gave protection to the calves and cows. Because of such pious activities, I have now become the son of a brāhmaṇa.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu’s words indicate that one becomes pious by keeping cows and protecting them.
- Although cowherd men are often considered lowly, the Lord confirms their piety and future birth as brāhmaṇas. The purport says the caste system has a specific purpose for society’s benefit when properly followed.
- People should serve cows and calves and receive milk in return. The purport states that killing cows instead of protecting them prevents peace and prosperity.
Try this today
Identify one concrete way you could help protect or care for cows and calves.
Ask yourself
How does this teaching challenge judging people’s worth by their social position?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport; the practice and question are plain words for trying the verse today.