Shloka 19
Veṇu-gīta-āhvāna and the Gopīs’ Appeal: The Opening of Rāsa-līlā
रजन्येषा घोररूपा घोरसत्त्वनिषेविता । प्रतियात व्रजं नेह स्थेयं स्त्रीभि: सुमध्यमा: ॥ १९ ॥
rajany eṣā ghora-rūpā ghora-sattva-niṣevitā pratiyāta vrajaṁ neha stheyaṁ strībhiḥ su-madhyamāḥ
هذه الليلة مخيفة، والكائنات المفترسة تتربّص هنا. ارجعن إلى فْرَجَ يا ذواتِ الخصور الرشيقة؛ فليس هذا موضعًا يليق بالنساء أن يمكثن فيه.
Śrīla Viśvanātha Cakravartī Ṭhākura has written the following charming commentary on this verse:
FAQs
In 10.29.19, Kṛṣṇa points out the danger of the night and tells the gopīs to return to Vraja, setting up a loving test that highlights the depth and purity of their bhakti.
After calling them with His flute, Kṛṣṇa speaks in a way that appears discouraging—citing propriety and danger—so the gopīs’ unwavering, selfless devotion can be revealed and glorified.
True devotion is steady even when challenged; at the same time, spiritual life should be practiced with discernment, responsibility, and respect for appropriate conduct.