PREFACE

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. What is the only qualification one needs to study this great book of transcendental
knowledge?

CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Discuss the role of Srimad Bhagavatam in Srila Prabhupada’s mission.

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Srila Prabhupada writes in the Preface to Srimad Bhagavatam: “We must know the present
need of human society”:
a. Explain the present need of human society and how Srimad Bhagavatam fulfills this
need, giving reference to statements from Srila Prabhupada’s Preface.
b. Discuss the significance of this comment in relation to Srila Prabhupada’s mission.
2. Srila Prabhupada writes in the Preface: “Srimad Bhagavatam should be introduced also in
the schools and colleges, for it is recommended by the great student-devotee Prahlada
Maharaja in order to change the demoniac face of society.” Describe what you can
personally do to fulfill this vision.
3. Discuss the importance of at least two Vaisnava qualities revealed in Srila Prabhupada’s
Preface.
4. Discuss, with specific reference to the text, how Srila Prabhupada’s Preface personally
inspires you.

CHAPTER 1

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. List three features of the Absolute Truth listed in the purport to 1.1.1.
2. List the four primary subjects of religion as mentioned in purport 1.1.1.
3. What portion of Srimad Bhagavatam is the most confidential? (1)
4. Explain why Srila Vyasadeva purposely invokes a Gayatri mantra, Dhimahi. (1)
5. Discuss the significance of the words ‘abhijnah’ and ‘svarat’. (1)
6. Give the English meaning the terms:
a. asamaurdhva
b. param satyam (1)
7. Srimad Bhagavatam can only be understood by whom? Give reference to specific Sanskrit
words from 1.1.2 in your response.
8. What is the English translation of the phrase – ‘vastavam atra vastu sivadam’? (2)
9. List the three categories (kanda) of the Vedic literature. (2)
10. Why is Srila Sukadeva Gosvami compared to a parrot? (3)
11. List the 12 rasas in English or Sanskrit. (3)
12. In what mood should one put questions before the speaker of the Bhagavatam (5)?
13. List four qualities of a representative of Srila Vyasadeva. (5-8)
 14. Explain the meaning of the titles ‘Prabhupada’ and ‘Visnupada’. (15)

CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Explain the analogy of the chief engineer of a complicated construction. (1)

2. Explain the analogy of the desert mirage. (1)
3. Discuss the meaning, and significance, of the word ‘susrusu’, as mentioned in purport to
1.1.2.
4. Explain the significance of dharmah projjhita-kaitavo ’tra paramo, as mentioned in 1.1.2.
5. Explain why the Srimad Bhagavatam is described as the ripened fruit of all Vedic
knowledge, as mentioned in 1.1.3.
6. Summarize the essence of each of the first three verses of Srimad Bhagavatam Canto 1,
and the conceptual flow between them.
7. Describe the glories of Srimad Bhagavatam with reference to at least four specific sanskrit
words, or phrases, from Canto 1 verses 1-3.
8. Explain the analogy of the detached branches and leaves. (4)
9. Describe the standard of the people in this age of Kali with reference to the Sanskrit in
1.1.10. Give examples from your own experience which reflects this description.
10. Why are the so-called vanaprasthas and sannyasis, in this iron Age of Kali easily deviated
from the rigid path? (10)
11. Explain how pure devotees are more powerful than the waters of the Ganges. (15)
12. Summarize the six questions of the sages. (1.1.9-23).

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Briefly explain, with reference to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.1.1, how the Bhagavatam
establishes Krsna as the Absolute Truth. Then show how this understanding:
● refutes common misconceptions about God.

● reflects the mood & mission of Srila Prabhupada.

● helps your faith in Krsna consciousness and

● helps your practices of devotional service.

2. Explain why there appears to be reality in the material world with reference to 1.1.1 verse &
purport.
3. Explain how the impersonalist philosophers have given indirect impetus to mundane sex
life. Give reference to 1.1.1, verse and purport in your response.
4. “The learned scholar seeks to relish the real rasa in the spiritual form.” Discuss the import
of this statement with reference to 1.1.3 verse and purport.
5. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.1.22 “The whole system of education is geared to sense
gratification, and if a learned man thinks it over, he sees that the children of this age are
being intentionally sent to the slaughterhouses of so-called education.” Discuss the
relevance of this statement in relation to Srila Prabhupada’s mission. Give reference to
1.1.22, verse and purport and the Bhakti Sastri texts in your response.
 6. Draw principles from the discussion between Saunaka Rsi and Suta Gosvami relevant for
asking questions to the speaker of Srimad Bhagavatam. Give reference to Canto 1,
Chapter 1, verses and purports in your response.
7. What is the purpose of the sages assembling at Naimisaranya? What parallels can you
draw between their purpose and the life of Srila Prabhupada? Give reference to Canto 1,
Chapter 1, verses and purports in your response.

CHAPTER 2

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Who is Ugrasrava and who is his father? (1)

2. Why there was no need for Srila Sukadeva Gosvami to undergo all the processes of the
varnasrama institution. (2)
3. Describe the relationship between the Puranas and the Vedas? (2)
4. What is the ‘Sariraka Bhasya’? (3)
5. Give the root meaning of the word ‘dharma’? (6)
6. Cite the two kinds of occupation, the Vedas prescribe for the human being? (6)
7. What two principles are important factors on the path of transcendental realization? (7)
8. Briefly explain the term ‘naiskarma’. (7)
9. Explain the ‘cleansing the cage of the bird’ analogy. (8)
10. Give the meaning of ‘bhaktya sruta-grhitaya’. (2.12)
11. Briefly cite the four principles a second-class devotee can see. (12)
12. Give the English meaning of ‘indriya-priti’. (13)
13. How does one gain affinity for hearing the messages of Vasudeva? (16)
14. The devotee fixed in the mode of goodness makes further progress to rise to which
position? (19)
15. What is the ‘tandava nritya’? (23)
16. How does the rajas stage of life gives a slight clue to the realization of the Absolute Truth?
(24)
17. Explain the king sometimes comes in the prison analogy. (28-29)
18. List the two analogies which describe how the presence of the Lord as Paramatma can be
felt by the process of legitimate hearing and chanting. (32)

CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Discuss the significance of Suta Gosvami not wearing a sacred thread. (2.2)
2. Describe the respective stages of dvija, vipra and vaisnava. (2.2)
3. Explain why the materialistic world is called the darkest region of God’s creation. (2.3)
4. Explain how materialists are compared to the camel. (2.3)
5. Compare the concepts explained in 1.2.6 with Srila Rupa Goswami’s definition of pure
devotional service, as described in Nectar of Devotion. Give reference to Srimad
Bhagavatam 1.2.6 and Srila Prabhupada’s Introduction to Nectar of Devotion in your
response.
 6. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.6: “This relation of servant and the served is the
most congenial form of intimacy.” Discuss the import of this statement in relation to your
own practice of devotional service.
7. “Bhakti, or the devotional service of the Lord, is meant for those who cannot perform the
high-grade activities.” Refute this statement, giving reference to 1.2.7.
8. Explain significant principles presented in 1.2.10 verse and purport. What is the relevance
of these principles for devotees in ISKCON? What changes could be made in your life in
order to improve your application of these principles? Give reference to 1.2.10 verse and
purport in your response.
9. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.6: “A sincere devotee must, therefore, be
prepared to hear the Vedic literature like the Upanisads, Vedanta and other literatures left
by the previous authorities or Gosvamis, for the benefit of his progress.” Discuss the import
of this statement for devotees in ISKCON.
10. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.14: “Any man from any social status becomes a
well-known man in human society within a very short time if he is simply glorified truly or
falsely in the daily newspapers. Sometimes political leaders of a particular party are also
advertised by newspaper propaganda, and by such a method of glorification an
insignificant man becomes an important man — within no time.” Discuss this statement in
relation to preaching Krsna consciousness in modern times.
11. Describe the development of progress in bhakti with reference to specific Sanskrit
words/phrases, and statements from Srila Prabhupada’s purports, from SB 1.2.16-22.
12. Explain the analogy of the prison house with as mentioned in 1.2.28-29 purport.

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Comment on Srila Suta Gosvami showing the way of chanting the Puranas, with reference
to 1.2.2-4 verses and purports.
2. Analyze the distinction between real and pretentious religion with reference to 1.1.2 and
1.2.6 verses and purports. In your response, give examples of pretentious religion from
current society.
3. Explain the following statement: “Renunciation or abnegation for ultimate good is certainly
a better occupation than enjoyment in the diseased condition of life.” Discuss the relevance
of this statement for personal and preaching application. Give reference to 1.2.6, verse and
purport in your response.
4. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.8: “All activities other than those which awaken
our love of Krsna are considered a useless waste of time.” Discuss the significance of this
statement for preaching Krsna consciousness. Give reference to 1.2.8-9, verses and
purports in your response.
5. Explain the process for fulfilling the ‘needs of the spirit soul’. Give reference to 1.2.8, verse
and purport, in your response.
6. Choose verses or parts of the purports, from 1.2.6-11, which you consider most useful in
preaching. Explain why and discuss.
7. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.12: “One has to raise himself at least to the stage
of a second-class devotee….” Discuss the significance of this statement for ISKCON’s
 present and future development. Give reference to 1.2.12, verse and purport in your
response.
8. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.14: “The Gosvamis of Vrindavana, who were
authorized by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu to preach the bhakti cult, rigidly followed this rule
and made immense literatures of transcendental science for our benefit. They have chalked
out ways for all classes of men in terms of the different castes and orders of life in
pursuance of the teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam and similar other authoritative
scriptures.” Discuss examples, from Nectar of Instruction and Nectar of Devotion, of the
Gosvamis of Vrindavana chalking out ways for all classes of men in terms of the different
castes and orders of life, in pursuance of the teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam.
9. Discuss how the following statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission.
“These asuras are gradually rectified to God consciousness by the mercy of the Lord’s
liberated servitors in different countries according to the supreme will. Such devotees of
God are very confidential associates of the Lord, and when they come to save human
society from the dangers of godlessness, they are known as the powerful incarnations of
the Lord, as sons of the Lord, as servants of the Lord or as associates of the Lord.” Give
reference to 1.2.16, verse and purport in your response.
10. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.16: “By serving the servant of God, one can
please God more than by directly serving the Lord. The Lord is more pleased when He sees
that His servants are properly respected because such servants risk everything for the
service of the Lord and so are very dear to the Lord.” Discuss the relevance of this
statement for ISKCON’s organization. Give reference to 1.2.16, verse and purport in your
response.
11. Discuss how Krsna becomes the benefactor of the truthful devotee, with reference to
1.2.17 verse and purport.
12. Explain the statement: “A devotee Bhagavata is as good as the book Bhagavata”. Give
reference to Canto 1 Chapter 2, verses and purports in your response.
13. Explain the statement: “One has to surpass the brahminical stage and reach the vasudeva
stage to understand the Personality of Godhead, Krsna.” Give reference to Canto 1
Chapter 2, verses and purports in your response.
14. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.26: “Highly qualified brahmanas situated in the
mode of goodness have no grudges against the mode of worship of others.” Discuss the
significance of this statement, for preaching principles of Srimad Bhagavatam, with
reference to 1.2.26-27, verse and purport.
15. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.28-29: “One may argue that the Vedic activities
are based on sacrificial ceremonies. That is true. But all such sacrifices are also meant for
realizing the truth about Vasudeva.” Explain this statement with reference to 1.2.28-29,
verse and purport, and Bhakti Sastri texts.
16. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.2.32: “As fire is kindled from wood by another fire,
the divine consciousness of man can similarly be kindled by another divine grace.” Explain
this statement with reference to 1.2.32, verse and purport, and Bhakti Sastri texts.
17. “The sufferings and enjoyments of the sons are indirectly the sufferings and enjoyments of
the father. Still the father is not in any way affected directly by the suffering and enjoyment
of the sons.” Explain this statement with reference to 1.2.32-34, verses and purports, and
Bhakti Sastri texts.
CHAPTER 3

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. List in Sanskrit, the three purusa avataras. (1)
2. Who is the collective Paramatma of all living beings? (2)
3. All the incarnations within the universe are emanations from which purusa-avatara? (5)
4. How many Manus are there in one day of Brahma? (5)
5. What are indirectly empowered incarnations called? (5)
6. List the 4 stages of sannyasa. (13)
7. What is the general test to identify an incarnation of the Lord? (26)
8. Give the English meaning of Avatara. (28)
9. List the Lord’s six opulences. (36)
10. Give the English meaning of the term ‘amogha-lila’. (36)
11. Give the English meaning of the phrase ‘puranam brahma-sammitam’. (40)
12. When did Sri Krsna appear? (43)
13. How can certainly see directly the presence of Lord Sri Krsna in the pages of Srimad
Bhagavatam? (44)

CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Explain the analogies of the tree decorating itself and the fleshy bags on the neck of a goat.
(2)
2. Explain how Lord Siva is not exactly in the same transcendental position as Lord Visnu.(5)
3. Briefly describe how incarnations enter into a universe as mentioned in SB 1.3.1-5.
4. List some of the specific powers displayed by four of the various incarnations of the Lord.
(28)
5. Explain the analogy of small electric bulbs. (28)
6. Give the percentages of Sri Krsna’s attributes possessed by His personal expansions, Lord
Siva, Lord Brahma and the jivas respectively. (28)
7. Explain the analogy of the car with the president. (31)
8. Explain the analogy of the expert electrician can utilize the electrical energy for both heating
and cooling. (34)
Explain why Srimad Bhagavatam is compared to the cream of the milk. (41)
9. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.3.41: “Srimad Bhagavatam should therefore be received from
the representative of Śukadeva, who must be in the renounced order of life without family
encumbrance.” Discuss appropriate and inappropriate application of this statement in
relation to spreading Krsna consciousness. Give reference to the first Canto of Srimad
Bhagavatam Chapters 1-3, and at least two Bhakti Sastri verses in your response.

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Present an overview of the 6 questions of the sages the sages of Naimisaranya & Suta
Gosvami’s respective responses. Give specific reference to verses and statements from
 Srila Prabhupada’s purports from SB 1.1-3 in your response. Discuss the significance of
these questions in relation to the Srimad Bhagavatam in general.
2. Establish Lord Krsna is the fountainhead of all incarnations, with reference to 1.3.28 verse
and purport.
3. “When, however, one meets the self by proper culture, the activities of the self, begin.”
Explain this statement with reference to 1.3.31-33 verses and purports, and at least three
references to the Bhakti Sastri texts.
4. Explain the two classes of materialists, with reference to 1.3.37-38, verse and purport, and
at least two appropriate verses from Bhagavad Gita.
5. “We can have all the transcendental light of the Supreme Brahman, Sri Krsna, from the
recitation of Srimad Bhagavatam provided it is received through the medium of the
transparent spiritual master.” Discuss how this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s
mission with reference to 1.3.40 verse and purport.
6. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.3.41: “We should always remember the maxim that one man’s
food is another man’s poison.” Discuss the import of this statement with reference to
1.3.41, verse and purport.
7. “....both the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam are like torchbearers for the blind
people of this age. In other words, if men in this Age of Kali want to see the real light of life,
they must take to these two books only, and their aim of life will be fulfilled.” Discuss the
significance of this statement. Give reference to 1.3.43, verse and purport, in your
response.
8. Describe in your own words, the glories of Srimad Bhagavatam with reference to 1.3.43
verse and purport.
9. Explain the secret of learning Srimad Bhagavatam with reference to 1.3.44 verse and
purport.
10. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.3.41: “No one can give rapt attention who is not pure in mind.
No one can be pure in mind who is not pure in action. No one can be pure in action who is
not pure in eating, sleeping, fearing and mating.” Discuss the relevance of this statement
for your practice of Krsna consciousness. Give reference to at least 3 Bhakti Sastri verses
in your response.

CHAPTER 4

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. What are the three qualifications of the congratulator of an assembly? (1)

2. List two examples of non bonafide persons who recite Srimad Bhagavatam. (2)
3. What is the ‘Suka samhita’? (7)
4. What is the distinction between brahmanas and parivrajakacaryas? (13)
5. When was the great sage Vyasadeva born? (14)
6. Where is the Saraswati River flowing? (15)
7. How was Vyasadeva able to see the anomalies of the age? (17-18)
8. List 3 of the 5 professors of the Vedas. (21-22)
9. For which three groups is the Mahabharata compiled for? (25)
CLOSED BOOK QUESTION

1. Reflect on qualities of Sukadeva Gosvami described in 1.4.4-8, verses and purports, which
you feel particularly inspired by. Discuss challenges you have in developing these qualities
and practical steps you can take to overcome them.
2. Summarize, and briefly discuss the significance of, the questions Saunaka Rsi asks Suta
Gosvami in relation to later topics of Srimad Bhagavatam. (1.4.6-12)
3. What general principles for preachers of Krsna consciousness can be drawn from
Sukadeva Gosvami custom of staying at the door of a householder only long enough for a
cow to be milked? (1.4.8)
4. With reference to the discussion between Saunaka Rsi and Sri Suta Gosvami, explain the
significance of the statement, “...Realization is more important than parrotlike chanting.”
5. Summarize Srila Vyasadeva’s literary contributions, as described in 1.4.15-26.
6. List three anomalies Srila Vyasadeva saw, in the duties of the millennium and describe the
solution he contemplated. 1.4.16-19.
7. Explain the significance of the statement: ‘itihasa-puranam ca pancamo veda ucyate’.
(1.4.20)
8. Explain how no one can claim independent knowledge beyond the Vedas. (1.4.23)

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Explain the standard of recitation of Srimad Bhagavatam with reference to 1.4.1 verse and
purport. Discuss the relevance of these standards for effectively presenting KC to a variety
of audiences. Discuss the consequences for ISKCON, of not maintaining these standards.
2. Discuss general principles relevant for preachers, from the Suta Goswami’s description of
Sukadeva Goswami’s qualities. Give reference to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.4-8, verses and
purports, and at least 2 appropriate verses from the Bhakti Sastras.
3. Explain the significance of Vyasadeva’s inquiry to the young damsels, in regards to
Sukadeva Goswami. Give reference to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.5, verse and purport in your
response.
4. Explain the import of the statement: “One should approach a sadhu or great sage not to
see but to hear him.” Give reference to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.6, verse and purport, and
appropriate Bhakti Sastri texts in your response.
5. Discuss the relevance, for ISKCON leaders, of Maharaja Pariksit’s leadership. Give
reference to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.12, verse and purport in your response.
6. Explain the significance of the statement, “...Realization is more important than parrotlike
chanting...”. Give reference to the example of Srila Suta Goswami, as described in 1.4.13
verse and purport.
7. Discuss how Srila Vyasadeva’s contemplating for the welfare of men, in all statuses and
orders of life, reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission. Give reference to 1.4.17-18,
verses and purports in your response.
8. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.4.25: “It is a great science, and the great
professor is the Lord Himself in the form of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. And persons
who are empowered by Him can initiate others in the transcendental loving service of the
 Lord.” Discuss, with reference to 1.4.24-25 verses and purports, how this statement
reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mission.
9. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.4.25: “Vyasadeva and Lord Krsna are both on
the transcendental plane, and therefore they collaborated in doing good to the fallen souls
of this age.” Explain, with reference to Canto 1 Chapter 4, verses and purports, how
Vyāsadeva and Lord Krsna collaborated.
10. Discuss the significance of the statement: ‘stri-sudra-dvijabandhunam trayi na sruti-
gocara’, in relation to Srila Prabhuada’s mission. Give reference to 1.4.25, verses and
purports, and appropriate Bhakti Sastri verses in your response.

CHAPTER 5

CLOSED BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. List three ethical instructions relevant for everyone in every place without exception. (11)
2. Explain the meaning of the phrase ‘amogha-drk’. (13)
3. Give the English meaning of ‘jugupsitam’.(15)
4. List three of Sri Narada Muni’s characteristics. (24)
5. How did Sri Narada become infected with the qualities of the Bhaktivedantas? (25)
6. List three of the infallible purpose of the advancement of knowledge. (22)
7. Who are Krsna’s aide-de-camp? (37)
8. What is more important than the Vedanta for this modern age? (38)
9. List three qualifications of a disciple exemplified by Sri Narada. (29)

CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Give evidence, in relation to the compiler of the Vedanta-darsana, indicating the necessity
of explaining Vedanta-sutra in the form of Srimad Bhagavatam. (1.5.8)
2. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.5.11: “It is the duty of every responsible Indian
to broadcast the transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam throughout the world to
do all the supermost good as well as to bring about the desired peace in the world.
Because India has failed in her duty by neglecting this responsible work, there is so much
quarrel and trouble all over the world.” Share your plans for broadcasting the
transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam throughout the world. Give at least
references to Sri Narada’s instructions to Vyasa in your response.
3. Explain the relevance of the fire in a house analogy in relation to spreading Krsna
consciousness. 1.5.11.
4. Discuss the significance of the sugar candy analogy for personal and preaching application
(11)
5. Explain the statement: “Knowledge of self-realization, even though free from all material
affinity, does not look well if devoid of a conception of the Infallible [God].” Give reference
to at least two appropriate verses from Bhagavad Gita in your response. 1.5.12
6. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.5.13: “The descriptions of the Bhagavatam are so
precise and accurate that whatever has been predicted in this great literature about five
 thousand years ago is now exactly happening. Therefore, the vision of the author
comprehends past, present and future.” Explain how Srila Vyasadeva can comprehend
past, present and future, with reference to Narada’s teachings to Vyasa and at least 2
verses from Bhagavad Gita.
7. Explain the particular defect, Srila Naradadeva is stressing, in the Vedic literatures
compiled by Vyasadeva. (14)
8. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.5.16: “The expert devotees also can discover novel
ways and means to convert the non-devotees in terms of particular time and circumstance.
Devotional service is dynamic activity, and the expert devotees can find out competent
means to inject it into the dull brains of the materialistic population.” Discuss how this
statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission.
9. Explain the two analogies; the leaves and branches of the tree, and the detached hands
and legs. (1.5.20)
10. Explain the remedy for eliminating all inauspicious things within the heart that are
considered to be obstacles in the path of self-realization (1.5.18).
11. Explain how a devotee does not undergo material existence like others. (19)
12. Explain why Srila Vyasadeva accepted Sri Narada as his spiritual master, even though he
was not at all dependent on a spiritual master. (1.5.21).
13. Explain the analogies of the milk curd and the red-hot fire iron.

OPEN BOOK ESSAYS

1. Identify general principles from Vyasadeva’s dissatisfaction and discuss the relevance of
these principles for personal and preaching application. Give reference to 1.4.26-1.5.9,
verses and purports in your response.
2. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.5.10: “Mostly the market literatures which
attract men of the crow’s categories are literatures containing refused remnants of
sensuous topics.” Discuss the relevance of this statement for personal and preaching
application. Give reference to 1.5.10, verse and purport in your response.
3. Discuss how Sri Narada’s instructions to Vyasa in 1.5.10-15 reflect Srila Prabhupada’s
mood & mission. Give reference to 1.5.10-15, verses and purports in your response.
4. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.5.11: “If there is a change of heart of the leaders
only, certainly there will be a radical change in the atmosphere of the world.” Discuss how
this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood & mission. Include, in your response,
specific statements from Sri Narada’s instructions to Vyasa in 1.5.11, which reflect this
principle.
5. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.5.11: “But we are sure that with all our faults in
this connection the seriousness of the subject matter will be taken into consideration, and
the leaders of society will still accept this due to its being an honest attempt to glorify the
almighty God.” Discuss how this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood & mission.
Include, in your response, appropriate statements from Sri Narada’s instructions to Vyasa,
in this chapter, which reflect this principle.
6. “The expert physician does not make any compromise with the patient by allowing him to
take partially what he should not at all take...” Explain the compromising spirit of Vyasa
with specific reference to 1.5.16, verse and purport, and Sri Narada’s teachings to Vyasa in
general. Discuss the significance of this statement for ISKCON's present and future.
 7. Summarize Sri Narada’s comparison of Krsna conscious literature with literature that does
not describe the glories of Sri Krsna. Include specific reference to analogies and metaphors
from both the verses and purports of 1.5.8-22.
8. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.5.18: “...everyone has his destined happiness
also. No one can get more or less of these things simply by personal endeavors.” Discuss,
with reference to 1.5.18, verse and purport, and at least 3 Bhakti Sastri verses, the
relevance of this principle in your practice of Krsna consciousness.
9. Explain how even though he falls down, a devotee is never to be considered the same as a
fallen karmi. Give reference to 1.5.19, verse and purport in your response.
10. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.5.22: “Scientific knowledge engaged in the service of the Lord,
and all similar activities, are all factually hari-kirtana, or glorification of the Lord.” Explain
how this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission. Give reference to
1.5.22, verse and purport, and at least 3 Bhakti Sastri verses in your response.
11. With reference to verses and purports from Srimad Bhagavatam 1.5.23 to 31, give an
overview of Narada Muni’s experiences in association with the bhaktivedantas. Give
reference to at least 3 appropriate Bhakti Sastri verses in your response.
12. Identify three principles that can be drawn from the previous life of Narada Muni, as
described in SB 1.5.23-1.5.31, and discuss their relevance to your own life and how these
principles can be applied in preaching.
13. The Lord says that the service of His servants is greater than His personal service. Explain
this principle with reference to verses and purports from 1.5.23-1.5.31, wherein Narada’s
previous life is described.
14. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.5.22: “The irresponsible life of sense enjoyment was unknown
to the children of the followers of the varnasrama system.” Discuss the relevance of this
principle for ISKCON with reference to Narada’s previous life as described in 1.5.23-1.5.31,
verses and purports.
15. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.5.36: “No one will disagree to partake in a function where
good singing, dancing and refreshment are administered. Everyone will attend such a
function, and everyone is sure to feel individually the transcendental presence of the Lord.”
Discuss how this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission. Give reference
to 1.5.36, verse and purport in your response.
16. Select statements from 1.5.17-19 verses and purports, and explain how they increase your
faith and conviction in the process of Krsna consciousness.

Chapter 6 Conversation Between Narada and Vyasa

CLOSE BOOK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. What is sad-dharma-prccha? (2)

2. List Vyasadeva’s questions to Narada. (3-4)
3. When did Sri Narada Muni meet with the Bhaktivedantas? (4)
4. Why is it the duty of a parivrajakacarya (wandering mendicant) to travel alone? (13)
5. What was Narada’s ‘material taint’? (21)
6. Why did the Lord withdraw Himself from the vision of Narada? (22)
CLOSE BOOK QUESTIONS

1. Explain how was Sri Narada Muni was able to remember his previous life. (1.6.4)
2. “What is considered to be an odd or difficult moment in the mundane sense is accepted as
special mercy of the Lord.” (1.6.10). Explain this statement with reference to the previous
life of Sri Narada Muni.
3. Give evidence, from this section of Srimad Bhagavatam, to substantiate the fact that in
previous, present and the next creation, activities will remain as they are. (1.6.11).
4. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.6.13: “In this age, devotional service of hearing and repeating
the holy glories of the Lord is strongly recommended, and one who takes the vow of
renunciation of family life need not imitate the parivrajakacarya like Narada or Lord
Caitanya, but may sit down at some holy place and devote his whole time and energy to
hear and repeatedly chant the holy scriptures left by the great acaryas like the Six
Gosvamis of Vrndavana.” Discuss the relevance of this statement for you personally and
ISKCON communities in general.
5. Briefly describe Narada’s experience during meditation. (16-17)
6. Explain the following statement: “That the Personality of Godhead was not seen but only
heard does not make any difference.” (1.6.25)
7. Describe Narada’s transcendental body and activities as mentioned in 1.6.27-28.
8. Explain the transcendental nature of Sri Narada Muni as described in 1.6.31.

OPEN BOOK ESSAY QUESTIONS

1. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.6.10: “Confidential devotees of the Lord see in every step a
benedictory direction of the Lord.” Discuss the relevance of this statement of personal and
preaching application. Give reference to 1.5.6-10, verses and purports in your response.
2. Draw general principles which can be drawn from Narada’s experience of unsuccessful
endeavors to see the form of the Lord a second time. Discuss the relevance of these
principles for your practice of Krsna consciousness. Give reference to 1.5.18-22, verses
and purports in your response.
3. Describe what Narada Muni began to do after the Lord stopped speaking. Discuss the
relevance of Narada Muni activities in this regard for your practice of Krsna consciousness.
Give reference to 1.6.26, verse and purport in your response.
4. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.6.26: “The life of a sincere devotee of the Lord is thus
explained in a nutshell by Narada Muni by his personal example.” Draw lessons from the
previous life of Sri Narada Muni and discuss their relevance for your practice of Krsna
consciousness. Give reference to Canto 1 Chapters 5 and 6, verses and purports and the
bhakti sastri books in your response.
5. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.6.36: “All the mysteries of transcendental realization are duly
experienced by Narada Muni himself, and therefore by hearing such an authority one can
have some idea of the results of devotional life, which are hardly delineated even in the
original texts of the Vedas.” Discuss the relevance of this statement in relation to Srila
Prabhupada’s mission. Give reference to 1.6.36, verse and purport, and the bhakti sastri
books in your response.
Chapter 7 The Son of Drona Punished

Close Book Short Answer Questions

1. Give the English meaning of ‘maya ca tad-apasrayam’. (4)

2. In which two ways are the conditioned souls being reclaimed by the Lord. (5)
3. Give the English meaning of ‘lokasyajanato vidvams cakre satvata-samhitam’. (6)
4. How powerful is the heat produced by the brahmastra? (30-31)
5. What is a ‘brahma-bandhu’? (19)
6. What is the standard procedure for presenting anything before the Lord? (26)
7. How is a brahmastra different from a modern nuclear weapon? (27)
8. List the 6 sinners, who are liable to be punished as murderers, for the act of killing an
animal. (37)

Closed Book Questions

1. Briefly describe what Srila Vyasadeva saw in meditation. (4-7)

2. Explain the analogy: the moonlight is there with the moon. (4)
3. Explain why the task of the illusory energy is described as thankless. (5)
4. Explain the analogy of the affectionate father chastising his children. (5)
5. Briefly describe the punishment of Asvatthama, and the events leading up to it, as
mentioned in Canto 1 Chapter 7.
6. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.7.13-14: “Lord Caitanya desired that all who are
born in India seriously understand such krsna-kathas and then after full realization preach
the transcendental message to everyone in all parts of the world. That will bring about the
desired peace and prosperity of the stricken world.” Discuss the significance of this
statement for ISKCON’s development.
7. Explain the analogy: the existence of darkness depends on the existence of the sun. (23)
8. Explain the significance of the word ‘helplessly’ in the translation to verse 1.7.27.
9. Discuss the principle Srila Prabhupada mentions, in relation to modern atomic bombs, from
Arjuna retracted both brahmastra weapons (32)
10. List, and briefly explain, at least 4 arguments each, both for and against, the execution of
Asvatthama. (35-52)
11. How Krsna tested Arjuna's sense of duty? (40)
12. Explain the significance of the eyes of the Lord being compared to lotuses. (34)

Open Book Essay Questions

1. Respond with reference to 1.7.4-8, verses and purports:

a. What are important lessons one should learn from Srila Vyasadeva's meditation on
the Supreme Lord?
b. What did he conclude after having had his vision of the Lord?
c. Why did Srila Vyasadeva decide to compile Srimad Bhagavatam?
 2. Explain the philosophical significance of the statement: “The Lord does not interfere with
the task of the illusory energy because such performances of the illusory energy are also
necessary for reformation of the conditioned soul.” Give reference to 1.7.5, verse and
purport, in your response.
3. With reference to 1.7.5, verse and purport, present arguments to defeat mayavada
philosophy.
4. “The transcendental qualities of the Lord are so attractive that Srila Sukadeva Gosvami
became detached from being completely absorbed in impersonal Brahman and positively
took up the personal activity of the Lord.” Discuss the significance of this statement with
reference to 1.7.10-11, verses and purports.
5. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.7.36: “Violence carried out on religious principles is
far superior to so-called nonviolence.” Discuss this statement with specific reference to
verses and purports from Canto 1 Chapter 7, describing the punishment of Asvatthama.
Comment on the general significance of this principle for the development of the Krsna
consciousness movement. Give reference to appropriate verses from the Bhakti sastra in
your response.
6. Explain how Arjuna resolved the issue of punishing Asvatthama. Draw general principles
relevant for the practice of Krsna consciousness from this incident. Give reference to
1.7.53-57, verses and purports, and appropriate verses from the Bhakti sastras in your
response.
7. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.7.42: “Women as a class are no better than boys,
and therefore they have no discriminatory power like that of a man.” Discuss this statement
in relation to the punishment of Asvatthama and its relevance to devotees in general. Give
reference to 1.7.42, verse and purport, and appropriate verses from the Bhakti Sastras in
your response.

Chapter 8 Prayers by Queen Kunti and Pariksit Saved

Close Book Short Answer Questions

1. List the 5 groups who were properly given protection, in the glorious days, or before the
advent of the Age of Kali. (5)
2. What was the result of Dushasana, a brother of Duryodhana, insulting Draupadi? (5)
3. Why did Uttara, Abhimanyu's widow, not follow the path of her husband? (10)
4. What was the reason the Lord established the rule of Maharaja Yudhisthira? (11)
5. List 4 ways Krsna protected the Pandavas. (24)
6. Krishna is the property of whom? (27)
7. Why is the attempt to reach the moon another example of spoiling energy? (27)
8. Why is Brahma called ‘atma-bhu’? (34)
9. What do the words ‘anatha’ & ‘sanatha’ indicate? (37)
10. List 3 reasons why Yudhishthira could not be convinced by the Lord. (46-51).
11. Why was Bhishmadeva obliged to take the side of Duryodhana? (46)

Closed Book Questions

 1. Explain the significance of Sri Krsna taking up His Sudarsana cakra. (13)
2. Explain how a brahmastra is more dangerous than the atomic bomb. (12-13)
3. Describe the nature of a chaste devotee of the Lord, with specific mention of Queen Kunti.
(17)
4. Briefly recount the incident of Lord Krsna saving Pariksit in the womb, as described in
1.8.8-17.
5. Explain why women generally assemble in great number in any sort of religious function.
(20)
6. Explain the significance of Kunti Maharani, although Krsna’s aunt, including the phrase
‘namo namaḥ’ in 1.8.21.
7. What does the name Govinda indicate? (21)
8. Explain why Srimati Kunti did not begin to see the Lord from His lotus feet. (21)
9. Briefly narrate at least 3 events from Krsna lila which relate to each of the names of Krsna
addressed by Kunti Maharani 1.8.21.
10. List some of the specific symbolical marks on the spiritual body of the Personality of
Godhead which distinguish His body from the bodies of all others. (22)
11. What conclusion can be drawn from Krsna’s respective treatment of Kuntidevi & Devaki?
(23)
12. Explain why the four principles of material advancement are disqualifications. (26)
13. Briefly narrate the example of Srila Sanatana Gosvami and the touchstone. Discuss the
relevance of this example for your own practice of Krsna consciousness. (27)
14. Explain the analogy of Ganges in relation to devotional service. (42)

Open Book Essay Questions

1. Discuss how Prabhupada’s purport to Chapter 8, text 5 gives insight into his mission. Give
reference to 1.8.5, verse and purport, in your response.
2. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.8.19: “For less intelligent persons, bowing down
before the authority of the Lord, as generally done in the temples, mosques or churches, is
as beneficial as it is for the advanced devotees to meditate upon Him by active service.”
Discuss the relevance of this statement in relation to Srila Prabhupada’s mission. Give
reference to 1.8.19, verse and purport, and at least 3 appropriate Bhakti sastri verses in
your response.
3. Explain Srila Prabhupada’s statement in the purport to 1.8.21 “Lord Krsna is more merciful
than Lord Rama”. Give reference to 1.8.21, verse and purport, in your response.
4. Srila Prabhupada writes in the purport to 1.8.22: “All the great acaryas established such
temples of worship in all places just to favor the less intelligent, and one should not pose
himself as transcending the stage of temple worship while one is actually in the category of
the sudras and the women or less.” Discuss this statement in relation to Srila Prabhupada’s
mission, with reference to 1.8.22, verse and purport.
5. Why is Queen Kunti welcoming calamities? Discuss the relevance of this principle for
personal practice and preaching of Krsna consciousness. Give reference to 1.8.25, verse
and purport, and at least 3 appropriate Bhakti sastri verses, in your response.
6. Srila Prabhupada writes, “…It depends on the quality of feeling. A helpless man can
feelingly utter the holy name of the Lord, whereas a man who utters the same holy name in
great material satisfaction cannot be so sincere…” Discuss the relevance of this statement
 for your chanting of the holy names. Give reference to 1.8.26, verse and purport, in your
response.
7. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.8.31: “Kunti was conscious of the exalted position
of Krsna, whereas Yasoda was not. Therefore, Yasoda’s position was more exalted than
Kunti's.” Explain this statement, and Queen Kunti’s bewilderment, with reference to 1.8.31,
verse and purport.
8. Srila Prabhupada writes in purport to 1.8.40: “..gigantic industrial enterprises are products
of a godless civilization, and they cause the destruction of the noble aims of human life.”
Discuss how this statement reflects Srila Prabhupada’s mission. Give reference to 1.8.39-
40, verse and purport, in your response.
9. Draw general principles from Queen Kunti’s prayer to cut off all family affection. Discuss
appropriate and inappropriate application, for ISKCON devotees, of these principles with
reference to 1.8.41-42, verses and purports, in your response.

Chapter 9 The Passing Away of Bhismadeva in the Presence of the

Lord
Close Book Short Answer Questions

1. Why did Lord Sri Krsna want the Pandavas to be present, in the most aristocratic order,
before the dying Bhismadeva? (3)
2. Why did Bhismadeva choose to fight against the Pandavas? (16)
3. List 2 reasons for Krsna wanting Bhismadeva to instruct Maharaja Yudhisthira. (25)
4. What was the destination, after death, of those who saw Krsna on Battlefield of
Kuruksetra? (39)
5. What destination was achieved by Bhismadeva? (44)
6. Why do the votes cast by the mass of people actually have no value? (49)

Close Book Questions

1. Explain why Lord Sri Krsna bowed down before the dying Bhismadeva. (4)
2. Explain the analogy of housewife teaches the daughter-in-law by teaching the daughter.
(17)
3. Explain how Lord enjoyed the wounds created by His great devotee Bhismadeva. (34)
4. Why did Lord Sri Krsna seemingly break His own promise? (37)
5. Explain how Bhismadeva observed Partha-sarathi with more relish than Arjuna. (39)
6. Why did Bhismadeva aspire to remember the gopis? (40)

Open Book Essay Questions

1. Explain Bhismadeva’s adjustment of religious principles to welcome the great and powerful
rsis. Draw general principles from Bhismadeva’s behavior and discuss their relevance for
ISKCON’s present and future. Give reference to 1.9.9 verse and purport, and 2 appropriate
Bhakti sastri verses in your response.
2. Summarize Bhismadeva’s explanation of the sufferings of the Pandavas and Queen Kunti.
Give reference to 1.9.11-17, verses and purports, in your response.
 3. Srila Prabhupada writes in 1.9.19: “Tribulations imposed upon the devotees by the Lord
constitute another exchange of transcendental bhava between the Lord and the devotees.
The Lord says, “I put My devotee into difficulty, and thus the devotee becomes more
purified in exchanging transcendental bhava with Me.” Discuss this statement in relation to
the sufferings of the Pandavas. Give reference to appropriate verses and purports from this
section.
4. Identify three significant points from Bhismadeva’s instructions on varnasrama and discuss
their relevance for your personal practice and preaching of Krsna consciousness. Give
reference to 1.9.25-28, verses and purports, in your response.
5. Describe Bhismadeva’s relationship with the Lord, with reference to verses and purports
from 1.8.33-38.
6. Select statements from Bhismadeva’s description Krsna’s activities on the battlefield of
Kuruksetra which particularly inspire you in your practice of Krsna consciousness. Give
reference to 1.9.34-39, verses and purports, in your response.
7. Discuss points from Bhismadeva’s departure particularly relevant for your practice of Krsna
consciousness and society at large. Give reference to 1.9.29-43, verses and purports, in
your response.

Canto 1 Chapters 1-9 Thematic Questions

Closed Book Thematic Questions
1. Select at least 3 verses from Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 1, Chapters 1-9, which you really
like, which inspires you and/or which stands out for you. Explain why.
2. Considering current topical issues in society, choose at least 3 verses that could
constructively contribute towards that debate. Explain why you chose this verse/passage.
3. Summarize at least 3 essential principals of the message of Srimad Bhagavatam with
reference to Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 1, Chapters 1-9 and relevant versus from the
Bhaktisastras.

Open Book Thematic Questions

4. Srila Prabhupada writes in the Preface to Srimad Bhagavatam, “There is need of a clue as
to how humanity can become one in peace, friendship and prosperity with a common
cause. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam will fill this need, for it is a cultural presentation for the
respiritualization of the entire human society.” Explain how Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is a
cultural presentation for the respiritualization of the entire human society with reference to
verses, and statements from Srila Prabhupada purports to Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 1,
Chapters 1-9.
5. Discuss how your appreciation of Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission has deepened by
studying Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 1, Chapters 1-9. Give reference to Srimad
Bhagavatam, Canto 1, Chapters 1-9 in your response.
6. Discuss at least 3 points of philosophical significance, drawn from Krsna’s interaction with
the Pandavas. Give reference to Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 1, Chapters 7-9 in your
response.
7.