Shloka 50

Matsya Purana — The Madana-Dvādaśī Vow and the Birth of the Maruts

Devanagari script

अथ भीतस्तथेन्द्रो ऽपि दितेः पार्श्वमुपागमत् विहाय देवसदनं तच्छुश्रूषुरवस्थितः //

Transliteration

atha bhītastathendro 'pi diteḥ pārśvamupāgamat vihāya devasadanaṃ tacchuśrūṣuravasthitaḥ //

Translation

Then Indra too, being afraid, approached Diti’s side; abandoning the abode of the gods, he remained there, intent on attending upon her.

Word by Word

• अथ: then

• भीतः: afraid

• तथा: likewise/indeed

• इन्द्रः अपि: Indra also

• दितेः: of Diti

• पार्श्वम्: side, proximity

• उपागमत्: approached

• विहाय: having abandoned, leaving aside

• देवसदनम्: the dwelling/assembly of the gods

• तत्-शुश्रूषुः: desirous of service/attendance to her (that)

• अवस्थितः: stayed, remained stationed

Speaker

• Narrator (Purāṇic narrator describing events; within the Matsya Purana’s dialogue frame)

Entities Mentioned

• Indra
• Diti
• Devas (gods)

Tags

• Devasura
• Indra
• Service
• Austerity
• Penance

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

This verse does not discuss Pralaya; it depicts a Deva–Asura narrative moment where Indra, fearing a future threat, chooses proximity and service as a protective strategy.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

It highlights a dharmic tactic: when danger is foreseen, one should adopt disciplined watchfulness and humble service (śuśrūṣā) rather than negligence—an ethic applicable to rulers safeguarding their realm and householders guarding vows and conduct.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

No Vāstu or temple-architecture rule appears here; the ritual-ethical emphasis is on sustained attendance/service (śuśrūṣā) as a form of vigilant observance during a critical vow or penance.