# The importance of hearing *Hearing (shravana) is the first and most important of the nine processes of devotional service. Knowledge of the Absolute Truth begins with hearing from authorized sources — the scriptures and the realized souls. By hearing about Krishna, one's heart is purified and devotion awakens naturally. Unlike material sounds that bind the soul, transcendental sound vibration liberates. Therefore, the Vedic scriptures emphasize hearing as the foundation of all spiritual progress.* ## The Primary Devotional Activity ![[sb/2/2/36]] ![[sb/3/24/35]] ## One Must Hear from Authorities ![[sb/3/8/7]] ![[sb/3/22/10]] ## Hearing from Devotees Purifies ![[sb/4/22/19]] ![[sb/4/22/25]] ## Hearing Can Be Beneficial or Degrading ![[sb/2/1/2]] ![[sb/4/25/50]] ## The Perfection of Hearing ![[sb/2/1/1]] ![[sb/3/6/17]] ## Hearing About Devotees Is Also Auspicious ![[sb/3/19/34]] ![[sb/4/23/33]] ## Related Articles - [[wiki/articles/The speaker and listener of Bhagavatam|The speaker and listener of Bhagavatam]] — Perfect example of hearing - [[wiki/articles/King Parikshit the listener|King Parikshit the listener]] — The ideal hearer - [[wiki/articles/Sukadeva Goswami the speaker|Sukadeva Goswami the speaker]] — The ideal speaker - [[wiki/articles/The glories of Srimad-Bhagavatam|The glories of Srimad-Bhagavatam]] — What to hear ## From the Index - [[index/entries/hearing|Hearing]] — The process of shravana - [[index/entries/srimad-bhagavatam|Srimad-Bhagavatam]] — What to hear - [[index/entries/sound|Transcendental Sound]] — Its liberating power