Life's Constant Companion

Time ticks by, and everything in our life changes – the place where we live, the people who surround us, the responsibilities we shoulder and the condition of the body we possess. In the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna rubberstamps the material world as asasvatam, a place where everything invariably fades away. That transitory nature triggers feelings of discomfort and insecurity within us. Thus, Krishna further describes the material world as dukhalayam, a place of inevitable misery and suffering. Nobody is exempt. By nature, however, we are eternal, pleasure-seeking, spiritual beings. That quality is so inherent that it’s undeniable.

How do we navigate this world, which sometimes seems so alien? How do we find our purpose and satisfy our innermost yearning? How can we live joyful lives and discover the happiness and security we so much seek? How do we deal with the emotions, experiences and events of day-to-day life?

For that, Krishna lends a helping hand. Srimad-Bhagavatam is known as ‘Book Bhagavata’ – the Supreme Lord who has appeared in the form of a scripture. The saints recommend that we form a deep bond with this sacred text and carry it as our constant companion. While everything else in life may change, this book, and the vision it lends us, remains a constant source of inspiration, strength and wisdom. It is enriched with spiritual insights to deal with every possible life situation we may encounter. The celebrated saint, Sanatana Goswami, beautifully captures this relationship: “O Srimad-Bhagavatam, O my only friend, O my companion, O my teacher, O my great wealth, O my deliverer, O my good fortune, O my bliss, I offer respectful obeisances unto you.” (Krishna Lila-Stava)

The Srimad-Bhagavatam is indeed a life companion. As we browse through the pages, we’ll find a relevant story, an inspiring personality, a striking situation, a philosophical exchange or a powerful life lesson which illuminates our heart. Every word brings life back into perspective, reminding us of the greater journey we are on, and filling us with clarity, hope and inspiration. The words of the saints and sages give us the broadest vision of reality, and as we immerse ourselves in those teachings, we’re elevated to the most powerful vantage point in life.

But it doesn’t end there. The Srimad-Bhagavatam transports us to Krishna’s abode of unlimited possibility. It’s a spiritual world that most people may never have conceived of - a world in which God is not just revered as the controller, creator or judge, but is adored for His incredible charm, sweetness and delightful personality. In that world, God seeks His devotees as much as they seek Him, He loves them as much as they love Him, and He needs them as much as they need Him. That transcendent world is our true home, and Srimad-Bhagavatam is the guidebook that will take us there.