Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 11
Chapter 19
श्री-भगवान् उवाच इत्थम् एतत् पुरा राजा भीष्मं धर्म-भृतां वरम् ।
अजात-शत्रुः पप्रच्छ सर्वेषां नो 'नुशृण्वताम् ॥
śrī-bhagavān uvāca ittham etat purā rājā bhīṣmaṃ dharma-bhṛtāṃ varam / ajāta-śatruḥ papraccha sarveṣāṃ no 'nuśṛṇvatām //
ശ്രീഭഗവാൻ അരുളിച്ചെയ്തു—ഇങ്ങനെ പുരാതനകാലത്ത് അജാതശത്രുവായ രാജാവ് യുധിഷ്ഠിരൻ, ഞങ്ങൾ എല്ലാവരും ശ്രദ്ധയോടെ കേൾക്കുമ്പോൾ, ധർമ്മധാരികളിൽ ശ്രേഷ്ഠനായ ഭീഷ്മനോട് ചോദിച്ചു।
In this verse, the Lord invokes an authoritative historical precedent to establish the weight of the teachings that follow. The reference is to the well-known scene in the Mahābhārata where King Yudhiṣṭhira—renowned as Ajātaśatru, “one who has no enemies”—approaches the dying Bhīṣma, the greatest elder and exemplar of dharma, to clarify the principles of righteous living and ultimate liberation. By mentioning that “all of us were listening,” the speaker underscores two key points: (1) the teachings were delivered in the presence of qualified hearers, and (2) dharma and mokṣa are not merely private philosophies but living instructions meant for the welfare of society. Śrīmad Bhāgavatam consistently validates spiritual conclusions through saintly lineage and time-tested narratives. Here, the Lord’s recollection signals that the forthcoming discussion is not speculative; it is grounded in the highest standards of Vedic tradition, received from a mahājana-like authority (Bhīṣma) and sought by a king whose character embodies nonviolence, self-control, and devotion. For modern seekers, the verse teaches the importance of approaching genuine spiritual authorities with humility and attentive hearing (śravaṇa). Just as Yudhiṣṭhira asked in a mood of responsibility and sincerity, one should inquire about dharma, bhakti, and liberation not to win arguments, but to live rightly and progress toward the Supreme.
FAQs
This verse highlights that dharma should be learned through sincere inquiry from exalted upholders of dharma like Bhīṣma, and received through attentive hearing rather than speculation.
Because Bhīṣma was the foremost authority on dharma, and Yudhiṣṭhira, burdened by the aftermath of war, sought clear guidance on righteous duty and higher spiritual principles.
Seek guidance from authentic spiritual teachers and scriptures, ask sincere questions, and practice attentive listening to align daily decisions with dharma and devotion.