Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 8
Mohinī-mūrti Distributes Amṛta; Rāhu is Severed; Results Differ by Shelter
इत्युपामन्त्रितो दैत्यैर्मायायोषिद्वपुर्हरि: । प्रहस्य रुचिरापाङ्गैर्निरीक्षन्निदमब्रवीत् ॥ ८ ॥
ity upāmantrito daityair māyā-yoṣid-vapur hariḥ prahasya rucirāpāṅgair nirīkṣann idam abravīt
Having thus been requested by the demons, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who had assumed the form of a beautiful woman, began to smile. Looking at them with attractive feminine gestures, She spoke as follows.
FAQs
In this verse, Śukadeva describes Lord Hari assuming an illusory female form (Mohinī) and, with a smile and captivating glances, preparing to speak to the Daityas—showing the Lord’s līlā and mastery over māyā.
The narrative context is the distribution of amṛta (nectar). By enchanting the Daityas through Mohinī, the Lord ensures the nectar is allotted in a way that upholds dharma and protects the devas.
This verse highlights how appearances can mislead; a devotee learns discernment—seeking truth and dharma over attraction to external charm, and remembering that māyā can cover clear judgment.