Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Madhya 2.50
Outward Tribulation, Inward Bliss
“In this way, Lord Caitanya used to revel in ecstasy day after day and exhibit these ecstasies before Svarūpa and Rāmānanda Rāya. Externally there appeared severe tribulation, as if He were suffering from poisonous effects, but internally He was experiencing bliss. This is characteristic of transcendental love of Kṛṣṇa.”
What the purport teaches
- Lord Caitanya reveled in ecstasy day after day before Svarūpa and Rāmānanda Rāya.
- Externally, He appeared to suffer severe tribulation, as though affected by poison.
- Internally, He was experiencing bliss. This contrast is characteristic of transcendental love of Kṛṣṇa.
Try this today
Read the translation slowly, noting the distinction between His outward tribulation and inward bliss.
Ask yourself
How does this description challenge judging Lord Caitanya’s experience by outward appearances?
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.