Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 56
Diti’s Puṁsavana Vow, Indra’s Intervention, and the Birth of the Maruts
मातृष्वसुरभिप्रायमिन्द्र आज्ञाय मानद । शुश्रूषणेनाश्रमस्थां दितिं पर्यचरत्कवि: ॥ ५६ ॥
mātṛ-ṣvasur abhiprāyam indra ājñāya mānada śuśrūṣaṇenāśrama-sthāṁ ditiṁ paryacarat kaviḥ
O King, who are respectful to everyone, Indra understood Diti’s purpose, and thus he contrived to fulfill his own interests. Following the logic that self-preservation is the first law of nature, he wanted to break Diti’s promise. Thus he engaged himself in the service of Diti, his aunt, who was residing in an āśrama.
FAQs
Indra understood Diti’s intention to obtain a son who would harm him, so he stayed near her and served her attentively, watching for any lapse that could disrupt her vow.
It shows that careful, respectful service can be both a dharmic duty and a means of maintaining awareness, discipline, and protection in spiritually sensitive situations.
Serve elders and dependents with sincerity and alertness, and when facing risk or temptation, stay disciplined and close to supportive, dharmic routines rather than acting carelessly.