184 Srimad-Bhagavatam [Canto 5, Ch.5
not bother seeking out knowledge. By simply engaging in devotional ser-
vice undeviatingly, one will always remain in the liberated condition.
mam ca yo ’vyabhicarena
bhakti-yogena sevate
sa gunan samatityaitan
brahma-bhityaya kalpate
(Bg. 14.26)

The unflinching execution of devotional service is in itself brahma-
bhiita. Another important feature in this connection is anena yogena
yathopadesam. The instructions received from the spiritual master must
be followed immediately. One should not deviate from or surpass the in-
structions of the spiritual master. One should not be simply intent on
consulting books but should simultaneously execute the spiritual
master’s order (yathopadesam). Mystic power should be achieved to en-
able one to give up the material conception, but when one actually
engages in devotional service, one does not need to practice the mystic
yoga system. The point is that one can give up the practice of yoga, but
devotional service cannot be given up. As stated in Srimad-Bhagavatam
(1.7.10):

atmaramas ca munayo
nirgrantha apy urukrame
kurvanty ahaitukim bhaktim
ittham-bhiita-guno harih
Even those who are liberated (@tmarama) must always engage in devo-
tional service. One may give up the practice of yoga when one is self-
realized, but at no stage can one give up devotional service. All other ac-
tivities for self-realization, including yoga and philosophical speculation,
may be given up, but devotional service must be retained at all times.
TEXT 15
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