Bhagavatam (Skanda 1, Chapter 4, Slokas 14-33)

By Anil Hattangadi (Recap given by Geetha Gopi on 21 Nov 2002)

In these Slokas, Sage Suta narrates the history of Srimad Bhagavatam in reply to the questions of the sages assembled at Naimisharanya conducting various sacrifices for the welfare of the world.

Veda Vyasa, the author of Vedas could foresee the imminent erosion of values of Sanatana Dharma in the age of Kali. The vision of saints and sages is not limited by time, as they do not see with bodily equipment. Vyasa could see that people in Kaliyuga will have very special qualities; ill health, loss of faith in spiritual subjects, lack of resolve and dull head. How many of us remember our New Year resolutions let alone following it!!

Vyasa knew that people would not have the mental and intellectual capability to understand the Veda in its original form. So he simplified it and divided it into four. He also wrote various Ithihasas and Puranas to cater to the lesser intelligent people. His aim was, some how or other, to engage the people on the path of Dharma; Make people live a dharmic life, earn wealth through dharmic means, spend such earnings for the fulfillment of ethically and morally sound desires and finally guide them towards liberation from the cycle of birth and death. However, we were smarter than he had expected and never have MOKSHA in our agenda. Therefore, in spite of all his efforts, he was feeling unhappy and was wondering what has gone wrong in his writings.

The answer to all our sincere questions lies within. Vyasa sensed that he may not have narrated enough the glories of the Lord and the need of Bhagavata Dharma; Surrendering all our actions at the feet of Lord Narayana.

When our thoughts and focus are on the good of others, the result is immediate and imminent. While Vyasa was thus contemplating, His master, Narada Muni appeared there to guide him to take up the task of writing Srimad Bhagavatam. The means to liberation is being engaged in the thoughts of God or Atma Vichar in the company of devotees and be peaceful and happy always.