Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 38
Mārkaṇḍeya Ṛṣi Tested by Indra and Blessed by Nara-Nārāyaṇa
तयोरासनमादाय पादयोरवनिज्य च । अर्हणेनानुलेपेन धूपमाल्यैरपूजयत् ॥ ३८ ॥
tayor āsanam ādāya pādayor avanijya ca arhaṇenānulepena dhūpa-mālyair apūjayat
He gave Them sitting places and washed Their feet, and then he worshiped Them with presentations of arghya, sandalwood pulp, fragrant oils, incense and flower garlands.
FAQs
This verse describes ideal atithi-satkāra: offering a seat, washing the feet, and worshiping with appropriate items like sandal paste, incense, and garlands—treating saintly visitors with reverence.
Washing the feet is a traditional sign of humility and respect, acknowledging the spiritual dignity of the guests and expressing service-minded devotion rather than mere social courtesy.
Receive guests—especially elders, teachers, and devotees—with sincerity: offer a proper place to sit, speak respectfully, and serve in practical ways (water, food, cleanliness), cultivating humility and gratitude.