Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Madhya 1.197
Association and Conduct Shape Our Character
“Actually we belong to the caste of meat-eaters because we are servants of meat-eaters. Indeed, our activities are exactly like those of the meat-eaters. Because we always associate with such people, we are inimical toward the cows and brāhmaṇas.”
What the purport teaches
- One may be born in a family of meat-eaters or acquire that character through association. Rūpa and Sanātana Gosvāmīs acknowledged the influence of their service and association.
- The first principle of Vedic civilization is avoidance of meat-eating and intoxication. Birth in a brāhmaṇa family does not excuse conduct opposed to these principles.
- A king or president must represent the Supreme Personality of Godhead and rule according to religious principles. Leaders become sinful by sanctioning activities contrary to the śāstras.
Try this today
Choose one meal today that avoids meat-eating.
Ask yourself
How do my associations influence the activities I accept or support?
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.