Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 50
Viśvarūpa’s Death, Vṛtrāsura’s Manifestation, and the Devas’ Surrender to Nārāyaṇa
स्वयं नि:श्रेयसं विद्वान् न वक्त्यज्ञाय कर्म हि । न राति रोगिणोऽपथ्यं वाञ्छतोऽपि भिषक्तम: ॥ ५० ॥
svayaṁ niḥśreyasaṁ vidvān na vakty ajñāya karma hi na rāti rogiṇo ’pathyaṁ vāñchato ’pi bhiṣaktamaḥ
A pure devotee who is fully accomplished in the science of devotional service will never instruct a foolish person to engage in fruitive activities for material enjoyment, not to speak of helping him in such activities. Such a devotee is like an experienced physician, who never encourages a patient to eat food injurious to his health, even if the patient desires it.
Here is the difference between the benedictions awarded by the demigods and those awarded by the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Viṣṇu. Devotees of the demigods ask for benedictions simply for sense gratification, and therefore they have been described in Bhagavad-gītā (7.20) as bereft of intelligence.
FAQs
This verse says a truly wise person will not push an ignorant person toward binding fruitive work; guidance should lead toward the highest welfare (niḥśreyasa), not deeper entanglement.
Because both aim at real welfare: as a good doctor refuses harmful food even if requested, a genuine teacher refuses to endorse actions that worsen bondage and suffering.
Seek counsel that reduces harmful habits and attachments, and when advising others, don’t enable choices that increase suffering—offer guidance that supports long-term spiritual and ethical well-being.