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
罗呼伽那王说：我再三顶礼那因中之因的至上者；凭祂真实自性的威力，一切经论中的矛盾皆被消融，形体之别亦成微末。噢，阿瓦度塔啊，你披着婆罗门友人的外相，隐匿你那恒常的超然喜乐体验；我向你致以恭敬的礼拜。
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.