CHAPTER ELEVEN

Service to the Lord

Any recommended path for self-realization can be successful only when
it is mixed with devotional service. This was explained by Narada Muni, the
Spiritual Master of Vyasadeva, when Vyasadeva was not satisfied even after
compiling heaps of books of Vedic knowledge. Vyasadeva was sitting in a
state of depression by the banks of the River Saraswati when Narada Muni
arrived. Upon seeing Vyasa so dejected, he explained the deficiency in the
compilation of his various books. He said as follows:

“Even pure knowledge without being completed by transcendental devo-
tional service does not look well. What to speak of fruitive activities when they
are not in devotional service? How can they be of any benefit to the per-
former?”

There are many sages who are expert in performing austerities; there are
many men who give much in charity; there are many famous men, scholars
and thinkers; and those who are very expert in the Vedic hymns. All such
achievements are certainly very auspicious, but unless they are utilized for

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