Srimad Bhagavatam — Panchama Skandha, Shloka 1
Rahūgaṇa Instructed by Jaḍa Bharata — Dehātma-buddhi, Nondual Truth, and the Mercy of Devotees
रहूगण उवाच नमो नम: कारणविग्रहाय स्वरूपतुच्छीकृतविग्रहाय । नमोऽवधूत द्विजबन्धुलिङ्ग- निगूढनित्यानुभवाय तुभ्यम् ॥ १ ॥
rahūgaṇa uvāca namo namaḥ kāraṇa-vigrahāya svarūpa-tucchīkṛta-vigrahāya namo ’vadhūta dvija-bandhu-liṅga- nigūḍha-nityānubhavāya tubhyam
ラフーガナ王は言った。「因中の因たる至上の御方に、重ねて礼拝いたします。真の自己の力により、経典の矛盾は解かれ、身体の形相は取るに足らぬものとなる。おおアヴァドゥータよ、婆羅門の友の装いのもとに、永遠の超越的歓喜の境地を秘めておられるあなたに、謹んで敬礼します。」
From the Brahma-saṁhitā we understand the Supreme Personality of Godhead is the cause of all causes ( sarva-kāraṇa-kāraṇam ). Ṛṣabhadeva was the direct incarnation of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the cause of all causes. His son, Bharata Mahārāja, who was now acting as the brāhmaṇa Jaḍa Bharata, had received his body from the cause of all causes. Therefore he is addressed as kāraṇa-vigrahāya.
FAQs
This verse teaches that a realized avadhūta may appear outwardly ordinary—even like a mere “dvija-bandhu”—yet possess hidden, constant realization of the eternal Self; therefore one should not judge spiritual stature by external dress or social markers.
After initially offending him, Rahūgaṇa recognizes Jaḍa Bharata’s profound realization and addresses him as an avadhūta with concealed, constant spiritual experience, offering repeated obeisances in repentance and reverence.
Cultivate humility and avoid quick judgments: honor genuine wisdom and character over appearance, status, or labels, and approach spiritually advanced people with respect and a willingness to learn.