Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 7
Brahmā’s Prayers to Lord Kṛṣṇa (Brahmā-stuti) and the Restoration of Vraja’s Lunch Pastime
गुणात्मनस्तेऽपि गुणान् विमातुं हितावतीर्णस्य क ईशिरेऽस्य । कालेन यैर्वा विमिता: सुकल्पै- र्भूपांशव: खे मिहिका द्युभास: ॥ ७ ॥
guṇātmanas te ’pi guṇān vimātuṁ hitāvatīṛnasya ka īśire ’sya kālena yair vā vimitāḥ su-kalpair bhū-pāṁśavaḥ khe mihikā dyu-bhāsaḥ
In time, learned philosophers or scientists might be able to count all the atoms of the earth, the particles of snow, or perhaps even the shining molecules radiating from the sun, the stars and other luminaries. But among these learned men, who could possibly count the unlimited transcendental qualities possessed by You, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who have descended onto the surface of the earth for the benefit of all living entities?
Śrīla Sanātana Gosvāmī explains that Lord Kṛṣṇa is guṇātmā, “the soul of all superior qualities,” because He gives them life. For example, one may discuss in an abstract way such qualities as generosity, intelligence and mercy, but they come to life only when a living person exhibits them. Thus Lord Kṛṣṇa is guṇātmā because He descends to the material world and reestablishes religious principles by exhibiting all godly qualities Himself and inspiring them in others. A living entity who develops the transcendental qualities found in the Lord receives immeasurable benefit and eventually goes with the Lord back to His own abode, where all living beings are liberated and fully endowed with the transcendental nature.
FAQs
Bhagavatam 10.14.7 states that no one can truly measure Kṛṣṇa’s qualities, because He is the very source of all qualities and descends only for the welfare of beings; attempts to measure Him are compared to counting dust, mist, or rays of light.
After being humbled by Kṛṣṇa’s divine display in Vṛndāvana (Brahmā-vimohana līlā), Brahmā realizes his limitations and offers prayers acknowledging Kṛṣṇa’s supreme, inconceivable nature.
Cultivate humility: instead of trying to “control” or fully define the Divine intellectually, approach Kṛṣṇa through sincere devotion, gratitude, and service, recognizing His greatness beyond calculation.