Srimad Bhagavatam Canto 12, Chapter 10, Text 24

SB 12.10.24

brahmanebhyo namasyamo
 ye ’smad-rupam trayi-mayam
bibhraty atma-samadhana-
 tapah-svadhyaya-samyamaih
 
Translation: 
 
By meditating upon the Supreme Soul, performing austerities, engaging in Vedic study and following regulative principles, the brahmanas sustain within themselves the three Vedas, which are nondifferent from Lord Visnu, Lord Brahma and me. Therefore I offer my obeisances unto the brahmanas.
 
Purport: 
 
A pure devotee of the Supreme Lord is considered the most elevated of brahmanas, since all spiritual endeavor culminates in the loving service of God.
Srimad Bhagavatam Canto 12, Chapter 10, Text 23
Srimad Bhagavatam Canto 12, Chapter 10, Text 25