Shloka 37
Dhruva’s Humiliation, Sunīti’s Counsel, and Nārada’s Bhakti-Yoga Instruction
पदं त्रिभुवनोत्कृष्टं जिगीषो: साधु वर्त्म मे । ब्रूह्यस्मत्पितृभिर्ब्रह्मन्नन्यैरप्यनधिष्ठितम् ॥ ३७ ॥
padaṁ tri-bhuvanotkṛṣṭaṁ jigīṣoḥ sādhu vartma me brūhy asmat-pitṛbhir brahmann anyair apy anadhiṣṭhitam
O learned brāhmaṇa, I long to attain the most exalted position in the three worlds—one not yet held by anyone, even my father and forefathers. Please tell me a righteous path by which I may fulfill the goal of my life.
When Dhruva Mahārāja refused to accept the brahminical instruction of Nārada Muni, naturally the next question would be what sort of instruction he wanted. So even before Nārada Muni asked, Dhruva Mahārāja expressed his heartfelt desire. His father, of course, was the emperor of the entire world, and his grandfather, Lord Brahmā, was the creator of the universe. Dhruva Mahārāja expressed his desire to possess a kingdom better than those of his father and grandfather. He frankly stated that he wanted a kingdom which had no competitor within the three worlds, namely the higher, middle and lower planetary systems. The greatest personality within this universe is Lord Brahmā, and Dhruva Mahārāja wanted a position even greater than his. He wanted to take advantage of Nārada Muni’s presence because he knew very well that if Nārada Muni, the greatest devotee of Lord Kṛṣṇa, could bless him or show him the path, then certainly he would be able to occupy a more exalted position than any person within the three worlds. Thus he wanted help from Nāradajī to achieve that position. Dhruva Mahārāja wanted a position greater than that of Brahmā. This was practically an impossible proposition, but by pleasing the Supreme Personality of Godhead a devotee can achieve even the impossible.
FAQs
Dhruva declares his intense aspiration for the supreme, most excellent position and requests the right spiritual path from Nārada—one not attained even by his forefathers—indicating an extraordinary goal sought through divine guidance.
After being deeply hurt and determined to achieve an unmatched status, Dhruva approaches the great sage Nārada for authoritative instruction, seeking a path beyond ordinary worldly achievement.
Seek qualified spiritual guidance, set goals aligned with lasting spiritual attainment rather than temporary approval, and follow a disciplined path with sincerity and determination.