Sutra 63

The Narada Bhakti Sutra 63:

(Focus on Spiritual Growth)

स्त्रीधननास्तिकवैरिचरित्रं न श्रवणीयम्॥ ६३॥

"One should not listen to the character of a woman, the story of wealth, the doctrine of atheists, or the narrative of enemies."

To reach this glorious stage of bhakti and prefect self-mastery while one is practising and trying to live the spiritual life, Sage Nārada warns that one must not dissipate one’s attention unnecesssarily on other things. While living in the world many things reach within us through our ears and our eyes. Nārada advises us not to worry over the circumstances but to guard our mind from all serious pollutions of lust. It is only when we get involved with our feelings that we fall a victim to the sense objects. Let the mind stand as a witness of the objects around and of the senses clamouring for their temporary gratification.

This Sutra emphasizes the importance of focusing one's mind and senses on spiritual matters and avoiding distractions that can lead one away from the path of Devotion. The mention of "woman" here is not to be taken as a derogatory reference to women but rather as a caution against indulging in discussions that may incite lust or material attachment, which are considered obstacles in the path of pure Devotion. Similarly, the "story of wealth" refers to the avoidance of excessive talk about material possessions, which can lead to greed. The "doctrine of atheists" is mentioned as something to be avoided because it can create doubt and skepticism about spiritual truths, while the "narrative of enemies" likely refers to avoiding slander or negative talk that can foster hatred and conflict.

In the context of Vedic literature, this Sutra aligns with the broader theme of renunciation and focus on spiritual growth. 

For instance, the Bhagavad Gita (2.62-63) warns about the chain of events that starts with contemplation on objects of the senses leading to attachment, desire, anger, and eventual confusion of memory and loss of intelligence. 

Similarly, the Isha Upanishad (1) teaches that one should live a hundred years performing action without attachment, implying that one should not be swayed by desires for women, wealth, or other material gains.

Another relevant verse is from the Shrimad Bhagavatam (1.2.17), which states:

श्रीन्वतां स्वकथा कृष्णः पुण्यश्रवणकीर्तनः।

हृद्यन्तःस्थो ह्यभद्राणि विधुनोति सुहृत्सताम्॥

"Sri Krishna, who is the Paramatma (Supersoul) in everyone's heart and the benefactor of the truthful devotee, cleanses desire for material enjoyment from the heart of the devotee who has developed the urge to hear His messages, which are in themselves virtuous when properly heard and chanted."

These verses from different texts collectively emphasize the importance of directing one's attention towards Spiritual Knowledge and away from material distractions, which is consistent with the message of Narada Bhakti Sutra 63. They encourage the cultivation of positive spiritual qualities and the avoidance of negative influences that can impede Spiritual progress.