Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 15
Nārada’s Instructions: Śrāddha, True Dharma, Contentment, Yoga, and Devotion-Centered Renunciation
धर्मार्थमपि नेहेत यात्रार्थं वाधनो धनम् । अनीहानीहमानस्य महाहेरिव वृत्तिदा ॥ १५ ॥
dharmārtham api neheta yātrārthaṁ vādhano dhanam anīhānīhamānasya mahāher iva vṛttidā
यात्रार्थं देहधारणार्थं वा धर्मार्थमपि धनं नाधनोऽपि नेहेत। अनीहः कामरहितः सन् महाहेरिवैकत्र स्थितोऽपि स्ववृत्तिं लभते॥
Human life is simply meant for developing Kṛṣṇa consciousness. One need not even try to earn a livelihood to maintain body and soul together. This is illustrated here by the example of the great python, which lies in one place, never going here and there to earn a livelihood to maintain itself, and yet is maintained by the grace of the Lord. As advised by Nārada Muni ( Bhāg. 1.5.18 ), tasyaiva hetoḥ prayateta kovidaḥ: one should simply endeavor to increase his Kṛṣṇa consciousness. One should not desire to do anything else, even to earn his livelihood. There are many, many examples of this attitude. Mādhavendra Purī, for instance, would never go to anyone to ask for food. Śukadeva Gosvāmī has also said, kasmād bhajanti kavayo dhana-durmadāndhān. Why should one approach a person who is blind with wealth? Rather, one should depend on Kṛṣṇa, and He will give everything. All the members of our Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement, whether they be gṛhasthas or sannyāsīs, should try to spread the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement with determination, and Kṛṣṇa will supply all necessities. The process of ājagara-vṛtti, the means of livelihood of a python, is very much appreciated in this regard. Even though one may be very poor, he should simply try to advance in Kṛṣṇa consciousness and not endeavor to earn his livelihood.
FAQs
This verse teaches not to over-endeavor for wealth; one should accept only what is needed for maintaining the body and dedicate life to dharma and devotion rather than anxious accumulation.
In his instructions on civilized life and devotion, Prahlāda emphasizes renunciation of unnecessary material striving so that the mind becomes steady for bhakti and spiritual realization.
Work honestly, keep needs simple, avoid greed-driven overwork, and use saved time and energy for sādhana—hearing, chanting, and serving—while trusting that basic maintenance will be provided.