Live Caitanya Caritamrta · CC Madhya 22.156-157
Serve Kṛṣṇa Both Externally and Internally
“There are two processes by which one may execute this rāgānugā bhakti — external and internal. When self-realized, the advanced devotee externally remains like a neophyte and executes all the śāstric injunctions, especially those concerning hearing and chanting. But within his mind, in his original, purified, self-realized position, he serves Kṛṣṇa in Vṛndāvana in his particular way. He serves Kṛṣṇa twenty-four hours a day, all day and night.
What the purport teaches
- Rāgānugā bhakti has two processes: external and internal.
- The advanced, self-realized devotee externally remains like a neophyte and follows all the śāstric injunctions, especially hearing and chanting.
- Within his mind, in his original, purified, self-realized position, he serves Kṛṣṇa in Vṛndāvana in his particular way. His service continues all day and night.
Try this today
Set aside a few minutes today specifically for devotional hearing and chanting.
Ask yourself
What does the advanced devotee’s continued hearing and chanting teach you about their importance?
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.