Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Madhya 22.120
The vows that protect the holy nameAvoid mundane reading
“(18) The devotee should not hear Lord Viṣṇu or His devotees blasphemed. (19) The devotee should avoid reading or hearing newspapers or mundane books that contain stories of love affairs between men and women or subjects palatable to the senses. (20) Neither by mind nor words should the devotee cause anxiety to any living entity, regardless how insignificant he may be.
What the purport teaches
- The devotee should not hear Lord Viṣṇu or His devotees blasphemed.
- The devotee should avoid reading or hearing newspapers or mundane books containing love affairs or subjects pleasing to the senses.
- Neither in mind nor in words should the devotee cause anxiety to any living entity, however insignificant. These prohibitions guide devotional service through indirect action, while positive duties give direct action.
Try this today
Newspapers and books palatable to the senses are named by name. Replace thirty minutes of news or scrolling today with one purport.
Ask yourself
What am I feeding my mind before the holy name gets a chance?
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.