Hare Krishna Prabhujis and Matajis,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
I would like to share a beautiful verse from the Srimad Bhagavatam that illustrates the great power of pure bhakti; pure devotional service.
śruto ’nupaṭhito dhyāta
ādṛto vānumoditaḥ
sadyaḥ punāti sad-dharmo
deva-viśva-druho ’pi hi
Pure devotional service rendered to the Supreme Lord is spiritually so potent that simply by hearing about such transcendental service, by chanting its glories in response, by meditating on it, by respectfully and faithfully accepting it, or by praising the devotional service of others, even persons who hate the demigods and all other living beings can be immediately purified. [SB 11.2.12]
This verse was spoken by Sri Narada Muni to Vasudeva highlights the immense spiritual power of bhakti, or pure devotional service. This verse describes that even a slight connection with pure devotional service —whether through hearing, chanting, meditating, accepting, or praising it—can purify anyone, regardless of their past actions or nature.
In our daily lives, we see how repeated exposure to mundane or negative topics in the news, such as crimes, disasters, and political conflicts, affects our consciousness. Such news tends to instill fear, stress, and a sense of hopelessness. Conversely, engaging in devotional service or hearing and chanting the glories and pastimes of the Supreme Lord enlivens us, filling our hearts with joy, hope, and positivity.
That is why in Vedic culture, pregnant mothers are encouraged to avoid hearing mundane conversations and instead immerse themselves in hearing and chanting the Vedic scriptures like the Srimad Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Srimad Bhagavatam, Sri Ramayana etc. The purity of their consciousness has a profound influence on their unborn child.
There are many examples from the sastras that illustrates this truth. Prahlada Maharaja: While in his mother Kayādu’s womb, he listened to Sri Narada Muni’s teachings on bhakti. Despite being born to a demoniac father, Prahlada became a pure devotee of the Lord. Another example is Dhruva Maharaja: Guided and inspired by his mother, and later instructed by Narada Muni, Dhruva accepted the path of bhakti with deep respect and faith, ultimately attaining the Lord’s abode along with his mother.
Even for those who struggle to actively practice bhakti—such as chanting, reading scriptures, or performing devotional services – genuine appreciation for the efforts of others in devotional service can give tremendous spiritual benefits. Such appreciation pleases the Lord and sows the seeds of bhakti in one’s heart.
Therefore, Narada Muni’s words reassure us that whether we directly practice devotional service or simply appreciate and support others’ practice, bhakti is so potent that it purifies and uplifts us.
Your servant,
Satya Sara das