Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 26
The Appearance and Coronation of King Pṛthu (Pṛthu-avatāra) and His Humble Refusal of Premature Praise
वयं त्वविदिता लोके सूताद्यापि वरीमभि: । कर्मभि: कथमात्मानं गापयिष्याम बालवत् ॥ २६ ॥
vayaṁ tv aviditā loke sūtādyāpi varīmabhiḥ karmabhiḥ katham ātmānaṁ gāpayiṣyāma bālavat
Hỡi các tín đồ do sūta dẫn đầu, hiện nay ta chưa được đời biết đến nhờ những hành vi cao quý, vì ta chưa làm điều gì đáng để các vị ca tụng. Vậy làm sao ta có thể khiến các vị, như trẻ nhỏ, hát lên công hạnh của ta?
Thus end the Bhaktivedanta purports of the Fourth Canto, Fifteenth Chapter, of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, entitled “King Pṛthu’s Appearance and Coronation.”
FAQs
This verse shows King Pṛthu reflecting that mere desire for praise is childish; real renown should arise from superior, dharmic deeds rather than ego-driven self-promotion.
In the narrative, Pṛthu addresses Sūta and those around him while considering how a ruler’s lasting reputation is established—through exemplary action—while also acknowledging the immaturity of craving praise.
Focus on meaningful service and integrity; let recognition be a byproduct of consistent good work, and watch for the “childlike” impulse to seek validation.