Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 34
Varṇāśrama-dharma as a Path to Bhakti
Yuga-dharma Origins, Universal Virtues, Brahmacarya and Gṛhastha Duties
शौचमाचमनं स्नानं सन्ध्योपास्तिर्ममार्चनम् । तीर्थसेवा जपोऽस्पृश्याभक्ष्यासम्भाष्यवर्जनम् ॥ ३४ ॥ सर्वाश्रमप्रयुक्तोऽयं नियम: कुलनन्दन । मद्भाव: सर्वभूतेषु मनोवाक्कायसंयम: ॥ ३५ ॥
śaucam ācamanaṁ snānaṁ sandhyopāstir mamārcanam tīrtha-sevā japo ’spṛśyā- bhakṣyāsambhāṣya-varjanam
My dear Uddhava, general cleanliness, washing the hands, bathing, performing religious services at sunrise, noon and sunset, worshiping Me, visiting holy places, chanting japa, avoiding that which is untouchable, uneatable or not to be discussed, and remembering My existence within all living entities as the Supersoul — these principles should be followed by all members of society through regulation of the mind, words and body.
FAQs
In 11.17.34, Kṛṣṇa lists disciplines such as cleanliness, ācamana, bathing, sandhyā worship, worship of the Lord, pilgrimage-service, japa, and avoiding impure contact, forbidden foods, and improper association.
Kṛṣṇa instructs Uddhava on varṇāśrama-based disciplines that steady one’s senses and mind, supporting devotion and right conduct as Kṛṣṇa prepares to conclude His manifest pastimes.
Keep personal and mental cleanliness, maintain a simple daily worship routine (prayer/reading/japa), be mindful of diet, and avoid degrading company and conversations that pull the mind away from devotion.