Srimad Bhagavatam, Mahatmyam, Chapter One Sloka 9: Bhaktourkha…
Translation: I shall tell you the secret of what multiplies Bhakti at all times and create love for Sri Krishna. Listen carefully.
Interpretation: Shri Suthan further stokes the inquisitiveness of Shounaka and rishis by saying that he has a secret formula to enhance bhakti and generate a love for Sri Krishna. This is the second time that the name of Sri Krishna is figuring in the early stages.
From here, one can witness a tectonic shift in realising God – from yagnas and rituals to the life and times of Sri Krishna.
But bhakti has many shades. The essence of undiluted bhakti is surrender to the Supreme and not expecting anything in return.
And mark Shri Suthan’s words: Listen carefully. One has to remain focused while reading Srimad Bhagavatam.
Srimad Bhagawatham, Mahatmyam, Chapter One Sloka 10: Kalavyalamukha…
Translation: People who live in tremendous fear when they find themselves in the mouth of the poisonous snake called Kali have one major solace and the means to free themselves – Srimad Bhagavatham as narrated by Sri Sukha.
Interpretation: Suthan now lets out the secret: Srimad Bhagavatam as narrated by Sri Sukha. Only this can free people from the effects of Kali, compared here as a poisonous snake.
What does Shri Suthan mean be saying ‘Srimad Bhagavatam AS narrated by Sri Sukha?’
The essence of Srimad Bhagavatam was first narrated by the Supreme Lord to Brahma. This was short, crisp and comprised only of just four slokas. This was the seed. There is a meaning to this. When you need to say something to a learned person, like Brahma, just the essence or seed is enough. The soil of knowledge and wisdom is so fertile in Brahma, that this seed can immediately sprout, spread branches, bear fruits and keep growing.
Quite often, in board meetings, the chief of the organisation would be heard saying: Keep is short and crisp or just give me the essence. This is because the chief can expand a thought or idea in minutes within him.
As it is said, when a heart is full of knowledge, words are few. One cannot pour more water to a pot that is already full to the brim. Probably just a few drops.
But in Kali Yug, the learned Shri Sukha expands the essence and goes in detail while narrating Srimad Bhagavatam to Parikshit Maharaj. (This episode will come later in the narration). This is why Shri Suthan says ‘AS narrated by Shri Sukha’.
