Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 60
Nārada’s Instructions: Śrāddha, True Dharma, Contentment, Yoga, and Devotion-Centered Renunciation
धातवोऽवयवित्वाच्च तन्मात्रावयवैर्विना । न स्युर्ह्यसत्यवयविन्यसन्नवयवोऽन्तत: ॥ ६० ॥
dhātavo ’vayavitvāc ca tan-mātrāvayavair vinā na syur hy asaty avayaviny asann avayavo ’ntataḥ
Da die Elemente den Körper als Ganzes bilden, können sie ohne die Tanmātras, die feinen Sinnesobjekte, nicht bestehen. Ist also der Körper unwirklich, so sind auch die Sinnesobjekte von Natur aus unwirklich oder vergänglich.
FAQs
This verse explains that the gross elements are composites dependent on subtler components (tan-mātras); therefore, if the composite “whole” is ultimately unreal, its parts are also ultimately unreal—supporting detachment from material identification.
In his instructions on civilized life and spiritual progress, Prahlāda analyzes matter to help one see its dependent, temporary nature, so the mind turns toward the eternal self and devotion to the Supreme.
Use this analysis to reduce over-attachment to the body and possessions: treat material arrangements as temporary and focus daily effort on sādhana—hearing, chanting, and serving Bhagavān—while living responsibly.