Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 39
Balarāma Humbles the Kurus and Rescues Sāmba
अहो ऐश्वर्यमत्तानां मत्तानामिव मानिनाम् । असम्बद्धा गिरो रुक्षा: क: सहेतानुशासिता ॥ ३९ ॥
aho aiśvarya-mattānāṁ mattānām iva māninām asambaddhā giṛo rukṣāḥ kaḥ sahetānuśāsītā
“Just see how these puffed-up Kurus are intoxicated with their so-called power, like ordinary drunken men! What actual ruler, with the power to command, would tolerate their foolish, nasty words?
FAQs
This verse states that opulence can intoxicate a person, making their speech harsh and irrational, and such pride makes them difficult to tolerate or correct.
He highlights a common spiritual danger in worldly life—false prestige—showing that arrogance disrupts discernment and leads to cruel, disconnected speech.
Practice humility and mindful speech: avoid speaking from ego, soften harsh words, and remain teachable even when successful or influential.