Varnashram In Kaliyuga

2019-02-17
Srimad Bhagavatam 11.17.16-18 - Varnashram In Kaliyuga (download mp3)
by Baladev Prabhu at ISKCON Chowpatty
www.iskcondesiretree.com

SB 11.17.16

samo damas tapah saucam
 santosah ksantir arjavam
mad-bhaktis ca daya satyam
 brahma-prakrtayas tv imah

Translation:

Peacefulness, self-control, austerity, cleanliness, satisfaction, tolerance, simple straightforwardness, devotion to Me, mercy and truthfulness are the natural qualities of the brahmanas.

SB 11.17.17

tejo balam dhrtih sauryam

 titiksaudaryam udyamah

sthairyam brahmanyam aisvaryam

 ksatra-prakrtayas tv imah

Translation:

Dynamic power, bodily strength, determination, heroism, tolerance, generosity, great endeavor, steadiness, devotion to the brahmanas and leadership are the natural qualities of the ksatriyas.

SB 11.17.18

astikyam dana-nistha ca

 adambho brahma-sevanam

atustir arthopacayair

 vaisya-prakrtayas tv imah

Translation:

Faith in Vedic civilization, dedication to charity, freedom from hypocrisy, service to the brahmanas and perpetually desiring to accumulate more money are the natural qualities of the vaisyas.

Purport:

Atustir arthopacayaih indicates that a vaisya is never satisfied with any amount of wealth and always wants to accumulate more. On the other hand, he is dana-nistha, or dedicated to charitable work; brahmasevi, always engaged in assisting the brahmanas; and adambha, free from hypocrisy. This is due to astikyam, or complete faith in the Vedic way of life, and confidence that one will be rewarded or punished in the next life for one’s present activities. The fervent desire of the vaisyas to accumulate wealth is not the same as ordinary material greed, because it is purified and tempered by the superior qualities mentioned in this verse.