Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 20
Nārada and Aṅgirā Instruct Citraketu: Impermanence, Ātma-Tattva, and Mantra-Upadeśa
तदैव ते परं ज्ञानं ददामि गृहमागत: । ज्ञात्वान्याभिनिवेशं ते पुत्रमेव ददाम्यहम् ॥ २० ॥
tadaiva te paraṁ jñānaṁ dadāmi gṛham āgataḥ jñātvānyābhiniveśaṁ te putram eva dadāmy aham
When I first came to your home, I could have given you the supreme transcendental knowledge, but when I saw that your mind was absorbed in material things, I gave you only a son, who caused you jubilation and lamentation.
FAQs
This verse acknowledges deep worldly attachment (to having a son) while pointing the seeker toward paraṁ jñāna—supreme spiritual knowledge—showing that true relief comes through wisdom and detachment.
Citraketu was distressed due to childlessness; Aṅgirā, understanding his attachment, promised both higher knowledge and a son—using the king’s desire as an entry point to elevate him spiritually.
Seek spiritual understanding alongside responsibilities—recognize attachments clearly, and use life’s desires as motivation to pursue lasting inner freedom rather than temporary fulfillment alone.