Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 39
Prahlāda Rejects Demonic Diplomacy and Proclaims Navadhā Bhakti
नैऋर्तास्ते समादिष्टा भर्त्रा वै शूलपाणय: । तिग्मदंष्ट्रकरालास्यास्ताम्रश्मश्रुशिरोरुहा: ॥ ३९ ॥ नदन्तो भैरवं नादं छिन्धि भिन्धीति वादिन: । आसीनं चाहनञ्शूलै: प्रह्रादं सर्वमर्मसु ॥ ४० ॥
nairṛtās te samādiṣṭā bhartrā vai śūla-pāṇayaḥ tigma-daṁṣṭra-karālāsyās tāmra-śmaśru-śiroruhāḥ
The demons [Rākṣasas], the servants of Hiraṇyakaśipu, thus began striking the tender parts of Prahlāda Mahārāja’s body with their tridents. The demons all had fearful faces, sharp teeth and reddish, coppery beards and hair, and they appeared extremely threatening. Making a tumultuous sound, shouting, “Chop him up! Pierce him!” they began striking Prahlāda Mahārāja, who sat silently, meditating upon the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
FAQs
This verse shows Prahlāda being confronted by terrifying agents sent on the order of their master, highlighting that external threats intensify, yet the devotee remains fixed in devotion and is not conquered by fear.
Because Prahlāda’s unwavering devotion to Viṣṇu opposed Hiraṇyakaśipu’s ego and anti-Viṣṇu stance, he ordered his servants to intimidate and harm Prahlāda.
When pressured or threatened for living by dharma, remain steady, avoid panic, and keep your spiritual practice consistent despite hostile environments.