Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 3
Nārada’s Arrival, the Nine Yogendras, and the Foundations of Bhāgavata-dharma
तमेकदा तु देवर्षिं वसुदेवो गृहागतम् । अर्चितं सुखमासीनमभिवाद्येदमब्रवीत् ॥ ३ ॥
tam ekadā tu devarṣiṁ vasudevo gṛhāgatam arcitaṁ sukham āsīnam abhivādyedam abravīt
One day the sage among the demigods, Nārada, came to the house of Vasudeva. After worshiping Nārada with suitable paraphernalia, seating him comfortably and respectfully bowing down to him, Vasudeva spoke as follows.
FAQs
This verse shows Vasudeva welcoming the divine sage, worshiping him, offering obeisances, and only then speaking—teaching that reverence and proper reception of saintly persons is foundational to receiving spiritual knowledge.
Because spiritual inquiry is traditionally made after respectfully receiving and honoring the saintly teacher; Vasudeva first offered hospitality and obeisances, then began his questions to receive guidance.
Approach genuine spiritual teachers and advanced devotees with humility—offer respect, listen attentively, and then ask sincere questions—so that guidance is received in the right mood.