While Srila Jagannatha Dasa Babaji was residing in Vrindavan along with other dedicated ascetics, a Brahmin scholar, well versed in Sanskrit, arrived there for a few days. He was an excellent Bhagavatam speaker. An audience gathered to attend his discourse. Everyone was attracted to his beautiful explanation and melodious voice. But Vaishnava Sarvabhauma Srila Jagannatha Dasa Babaji and his associates did not come. When asked by the speaker why he had not come, Śrīla Jagannatha Dasa Babaji replied that to speak Srimad Bhagavatam for the purpose of money, is more despicable and sinful than the work of prostitutes. There is no greater sin than earning money by being a professional speaker of the holy book which is equal to God Himself. Even the listeners of these professional speakers commit equal offence because they are participating in this inauspicious activity. All the so-called ecstatic symptoms they display are false and hypocritical. They are for showmanship and profit.
That speaker of Bhagavatam became enlightened. He did not consider the statements of Srila Jagannatha Dasa Babaji to be blasphemous or unwanted. Then and there, he gave up the profession of being a Bhagavata speaker. Moreover, he appreciated the kind and compassionate advice of the saint for his own good. By the grace of Srila Babaji Maharaja, that speaker became a pure devotee.
