Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Antya 7.53
Learn Pure Devotion Through Humble Service
“Knowing that Vallabha Bhaṭṭa’s heart was full of pride, Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu spoke these words, hinting at how one can learn about devotional service.”
What the purport teaches
- Vallabha Bhaṭṭa was proud of his knowledge of devotional service without understanding the Lord’s position. Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu directed him toward learning from the devotees He had mentioned.
- To understand Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, one must take lessons from a realized soul. One should not proudly think that reading books alone gives understanding of the Lord’s transcendental loving service.
- One must faithfully serve a pure Vaiṣṇava and accept a Vaiṣṇava guru. Gradually learning pure devotional service to Kṛṣṇa through questions and answers is the paramparā system.
Try this today
Write one sincere question about pure devotional service to ask a Vaiṣṇava teacher.
Ask yourself
Where might pride in my reading be keeping me from asking questions and serving?
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.