Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 16
Parīkṣit’s Inquiry into Vṛtrāsura’s Bhakti and the Beginning of Citraketu’s Trial
महर्षिस्तमुपासीनं प्रश्रयावनतं क्षितौ । प्रतिपूज्य महाराज समाभाष्येदमब्रवीत् ॥ १६ ॥
maharṣis tam upāsīnaṁ praśrayāvanataṁ kṣitau pratipūjya mahārāja samābhāṣyedam abravīt
Seeing Citraketu seated on the ground in humble reverence at his lotus feet, the great sage honored him and, addressing him as “O great King,” spoke these words.
FAQs
This verse highlights proper Vedic etiquette: the king bows humbly, and the sage reciprocates by honoring him, showing that humility and mutual respect are foundational for receiving spiritual instruction.
Because genuine teachers in the Bhagavata tradition are not proud; they reciprocate respect, creating a dharmic, receptive atmosphere before giving counsel or blessings.
Approach mentors, teachers, and spiritually advanced persons with humility, listen attentively, and practice respectful reciprocity—this mindset opens one to learning and inner transformation.