Srimad Bhagavatam — Tritiya Skandha, Shloka 18
Bhakti Yoga: The Three Modes of Devotion, Non-Envy, and Time as the Lord
आध्यात्मिकानुश्रवणान्नामसङ्कीर्तनाच्च मे । आर्जवेनार्यसङ्गेन निरहङ्क्रियया तथा ॥ १८ ॥
ādhyātmikānuśravaṇān nāma-saṅkīrtanāc ca me ārjavenārya-saṅgena nirahaṅkriyayā tathā
El devoto debe esforzarse siempre por oír temas espirituales y emplear su tiempo en el saṅkīrtana del santo nombre del Señor. Su conducta ha de ser recta y sencilla; sin envidia, amistoso con todos, pero evitando la compañía de quienes no están avanzados espiritualmente.
In order to advance in spiritual understanding, one has to hear from authentic sources about spiritual knowledge. One can understand the reality of spiritual life by following strict regulative principles and by controlling the senses. To have control it is necessary that one be nonviolent and truthful, refrain from stealing, abstain from sex life and possess only that which is absolutely necessary for keeping the body and soul together. One should not eat more than necessary, he should not collect more paraphernalia than necessary, he should not talk unnecessarily with common men, and he should not follow the rules and regulations without purpose. He should follow the rules and regulations so that he may actually make advancement.
FAQs
This verse lists chanting the Lord’s names (nāma-saṅkīrtana) as a direct practice that advances one in devotion to the Lord.
In His bhakti teachings, Kapila explains that association with the noble (ārya-saṅga) supports sincere hearing, chanting, and ego-free service, which together nourish devotion.
Offer your work and its results to God, avoid craving credit, and serve with the attitude of being an instrument—doing your duty sincerely without the pride of being the independent doer.