Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 32
Brahmā’s Day, the Four Pralayas, and the Supreme Shelter Beyond Cause–Effect
यथा घनोऽर्कप्रभवोऽर्कदर्शितो ह्यर्कांशभूतस्य च चक्षुषस्तम: । एवं त्वहं ब्रह्मगुणस्तदीक्षितो ब्रह्मांशकस्यात्मन आत्मबन्धन: ॥ ३२ ॥
yathā ghano ’rka-prabhavo ’rka-darśito hy arkāṁśa-bhūtasya ca cakṣuṣas tamaḥ evaṁ tv ahaṁ brahma-guṇas tad-īkṣito brahmāṁśakasyātmana ātma-bandhanaḥ
Although a cloud is a product of the sun and is also made visible by the sun, it nevertheless creates darkness for the viewing eye, which is another partial expansion of the sun. Similarly, material false ego, a particular product of the Absolute Truth made visible by the Absolute Truth, obstructs the individual soul, another partial expansion of the Absolute Truth, from realizing the Absolute Truth.
FAQs
This verse compares māyā to a cloud: it arises from the Supreme and is known only by His light, yet it obscures the jīva’s vision and becomes the cause of bondage.
To clarify how ignorance can cover a tiny soul’s awareness even though everything exists by the Supreme’s power—helping Parīkṣit focus on liberation through right understanding and devotion.
Recognize that confusion and ego are temporary coverings; strengthen “sunlight” through sādhana—hearing Bhāgavatam, chanting, and serving—so the mind’s cloud no longer blocks clear spiritual vision.