Shloka 19
Uddhava’s Counsel: The Jarāsandha Resolution and Kṛṣṇa’s Arrival at Indraprastha
राजदूतमुवाचेदं भगवान् प्रीणयन् गिरा । मा भैष्ट दूत भद्रं वो घातयिष्यामि मागधम् ॥ १९ ॥
rāja-dūtam uvācedaṁ bhagavān prīṇayan girā mā bhaiṣṭa dūta bhadraṁ vo ghātayiṣyāmi māgadham
With pleasing words the Lord addressed the kings’ messenger: “Do not fear, dear envoy; may auspiciousness be upon you. I shall arrange the slaying of the king of Magadha. Be without anxiety.”
The statement ma bhaiṣṭa, “do not fear,” is in the plural, being intended for both the messenger and the kings. Similarly, the expression bhadraṁ vaḥ, “blessings unto you,” is also in the plural, expressing a similar intent.
FAQs
In this verse, Śrī Kṛṣṇa directly tells the messenger “Do not fear,” showing that His words and protection remove fear and restore confidence.
Kṛṣṇa pleased the envoy with gentle speech to remove anxiety and to convey His resolve that the Magadhan king Jarāsandha would be slain, easing the messenger’s apprehension.
When facing intimidation or uncertainty, remember Kṛṣṇa’s assuring guidance—act with dharma, speak gently, and rely on the Lord’s protection rather than fear.