Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 36
Prahlāda Rejects Demonic Diplomacy and Proclaims Navadhā Bhakti
विष्णोर्वा साध्वसौ किं नु करिष्यत्यसमञ्जस: । सौहृदं दुस्त्यजं पित्रोरहाद्य: पञ्चहायन: ॥ ३६ ॥
viṣṇor vā sādhv asau kiṁ nu kariṣyaty asamañjasaḥ sauhṛdaṁ dustyajaṁ pitror ahād yaḥ pañca-hāyanaḥ
Although Prahlāda is only five years old, even at this young age he has given up his affectionate relationship with his father and mother. Therefore, he is certainly untrustworthy. Indeed, it is not at all believable that he will behave well toward Viṣṇu.
FAQs
The verse implies that one who is devoted to Viṣṇu is naturally saintly and unlikely to act improperly; the concern shifts to worldly attachments rather than any fault in bhakti.
He reasons that because Prahlāda is only five, he may still retain strong natural attachment to his father—suggesting the boy might be influenced or restrained by familial affection despite his Viṣṇu devotion.
It highlights balancing natural family affection with higher spiritual commitments—cultivating devotion without becoming controlled by attachment that opposes dharma.