Mantra Eleven
59
is some system of religious observances. But this is not the purpose of the principles of salvation. The path of religion is actually for self realization. Economic development is required just to maintain the body in a sound, healthy condition. A man should live in a healthy condition of life with a sound mind just to realize  vidyā , true knowledge, which is the aim of human life. This life is not meant for working like an ass or for the culture of  avidyā  or for sense gratification.
The path of  vidyā  is most perfectly presented in the  Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam . The  Bhāgavatam  directs a human being to utilize his life in the matter of enquiring about the Absolute Truth. The Absolute Truth is realized step by step as  Brahman ,  Paramātman , and, at last,  Bhagavān , the Personality of Godhead. This Absolute Truth is realized by the broad-minded man who has attained knowledge and detachment, having followed the 18 principles of the  Bhagavad-gītā  described above. The central point in these 18 principles is the attainment of transcendental devotional service to the Personality of Godhead. Therefore it is recommended for all classes of men to learn the art of devotional service to the Lord.
Religiousness, economic development and sense gratification without the aim of attaining devotional service to the Lord are all different forms of nescience, as will be shown hereafter in  Śrī Īśopaniṣad . Thus, to culture  vidyā , especially in this age, one must always hear and chant and worship with concentrated attention, targetted on the Personality of Godhead, Who is the Lord of the transcendentalists.