Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 41
Arjuna Marries Subhadrā; Kṛṣṇa Honors Two Devotees in Mithilā (Śrutadeva and Bahulāśva)
फलार्हणोशीरशिवामृताम्बुभि- र्मृदा सुरभ्या तुलसीकुशाम्बुजै: । आराधयामास यथोपपन्नया सपर्यया सत्त्वविवर्धनान्धसा ॥ ४१ ॥
phalārhaṇośīra-śivāmṛtāmbubhir mṛdā surabhyā tulasī-kuśāmbuyaiḥ ārādhayām āsa yathopapannayā saparyayā sattva-vivardhanāndhasā
He worshiped them with offerings of auspicious items easily available to him, such as fruits, uśīra root, pure, nectarean water, fragrant clay, tulasī leaves, kuśa grass and lotus flowers. Then he offered them food that increases the mode of goodness.
FAQs
This verse shows that sincere devotion expressed through fitting, pure offerings—tulasī, water, flowers, and wholesome provisions—is proper worship of Śrī Kṛṣṇa, even when the items are simple.
He highlights arcana-bhakti in practice—how devotees honor Kṛṣṇa with auspicious, purifying substances—emphasizing devotion and purity (sattva) rather than display.
Offer clean water, a flower, and tulasī (when available), and keep one’s habits and food pure—making worship a daily discipline that increases clarity, calmness, and devotion.