Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 58
Diti’s Puṁsavana Vow, Indra’s Intervention, and the Birth of the Maruts
एवं तस्या व्रतस्थाया व्रतच्छिद्रं हरिर्नृप । प्रेप्सु: पर्यचरज्जिह्मो मृगहेव मृगाकृति: ॥ ५८ ॥
evaṁ tasyā vrata-sthāyā vrata-cchidraṁ harir nṛpa prepsuḥ paryacaraj jihmo mṛga-heva mṛgākṛtiḥ
O König Parīkṣit, wie ein Hirschjäger, der sich mit Hirschfell bedeckt und so dem Hirsch gleicht, so zeigte sich Indra, im Herzen Feind der Söhne Ditis, nach außen freundlich und diente Diti äußerst sorgfältig. Er suchte nach einem Fehltritt in ihrem Gelübde, um sie unbemerkt zu täuschen.
FAQs
This verse shows that even when one is steadfast in a vow, circumstances and opponents may search for a single lapse; therefore vigilance and purity in observance are essential.
In the narrative, Indra feared the power of Diti’s austerity and sought an opportunity to disrupt it, waiting for a moment of weakness to protect his position and the devas.
When you commit to spiritual discipline, expect distractions and subtle loopholes; strengthen routines, avoid negligence, and keep intentions clear to protect your practice.