Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 19
Nārada’s Instructions: Śrāddha, True Dharma, Contentment, Yoga, and Devotion-Centered Renunciation
असन्तुष्टस्य विप्रस्य तेजो विद्या तपो यश: । स्रवन्तीन्द्रियलौल्येन ज्ञानं चैवावकीर्यते ॥ १९ ॥
asantuṣṭasya viprasya tejo vidyā tapo yaśaḥ sravantīndriya-laulyena jñānaṁ caivāvakīryate
Because of greed for the sake of the senses, the spiritual strength, education, austerity and reputation of a devotee or brāhmaṇa who is not self-satisfied dwindle, and his knowledge gradually vanishes.
FAQs
This verse states that dissatisfaction causes a learned person’s tejas, learning, austerity, and reputation to drain away, and sense-greed scatters and ruins real knowledge.
Prahlāda is instructing on civilized conduct and spiritual discipline, warning that uncontrolled senses and inner discontent undermine brahminical qualities and genuine realization.
Practice contentment and restraint—reduce impulsive consumption, regulate habits, and prioritize study, sādhana, and service—so knowledge becomes steady rather than scattered by distraction.