Shloka 17
Vidura’s Questions on Devotion and Sarga; Maitreya Begins the Account of Creation
श्री शुक उवाच स एवं भगवान् पृष्ट: क्षत्त्रा कौषारवो मुनि: । पुंसां नि:श्रेयसार्थेन तमाह बहुमानयन् ॥ १७ ॥
śrī-śuka uvāca sa evaṁ bhagavān pṛṣṭaḥ kṣattrā kauṣāravo muniḥ puṁsāṁ niḥśreyasārthena tam āha bahu-mānayan
Śrī Śukadeva Gosvāmī said: At Vidura’s request, the great sage Maitreya, honoring him greatly, began to speak for the highest welfare of all people.
The great sage Maitreya Muni is described here as bhagavān because he surpassed all ordinary human beings in learning and experience. Thus his selection of the greatest welfare service for the world is considered authoritative. The all-inclusive welfare service for the entire human society is devotional service to the Lord, and, as requested by Vidura, the sage described the same very appropriately.
FAQs
Here niḥśreyasa indicates the supreme welfare of the soul—ultimate auspiciousness—attained through true spiritual knowledge and devotion, which Maitreya speaks to Vidura for the benefit of all.
Because Vidura approached with sincere, welfare-seeking questions; Maitreya honored him and responded so that the teachings would lead to the highest benefit for humanity.
Approach authentic teachers with humility and clear questions aimed at real inner good (not mere curiosity), and prioritize teachings that elevate character, devotion, and liberation.