Compilation of Bhagavatam

Chapter 4, 5, 6

Suta Goswami begins by addressing the first question regarding the compilation of Srimad-Bhagavatam.

Once, whilst Srila Vyasadeva was deep in meditation, he envisioned the bleak future of civilisation. Moved by compassion, he resolved to make the spiritual truths more accessible for the mass of people. He divided the original Veda into four, compiled the fifth Veda consisting of ancient histories, and entrusted each division of literature to various sages for preservation, development and further dissemination.

Despite producing so many volumes of books, Vyasadeva remained dissatisfied. When Narada Muni arrived at his hermitage in Badarikasrama, he immediately diagnosed the problem and instructed Vyasadeva to compile a literature which would beautifully highlight the identity and activities of Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Narada informed him that his previous works had obscured this most essential revelation; so much was discussed, but the essence was overlooked.

To highlight the power of hearing about Krishna, Narada Muni described how, through the association of great saints, he progressed in devotional service. The transformation took place by serving and hearing from spiritually evolved souls with the proper eagerness and humility. Being further questioned by Vyasadeva, Narada Muni explained his previous life as the son of a maidservant, how his mother died, his subsequent meeting with the Supersoul, and his current birth as a wandering sage. Narada clearly possessed the depth of realisation required to guide his disciple towards spiritual perfection.

Having received these jewel-like instructions, Vyasadeva went into a divine trance and perfectly grasped all the spiritual conclusions. He subsequently compiled the Srimad-Bhagavatam and taught it to his son, Sukadeva Goswami.