Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 14
Aditi’s Payo-vrata and Viṣṇu’s Promise to Appear as Her Son
Prelude to Vāmana
इन्द्रज्येष्ठै: स्वतनयैर्हतानां युधि विद्विषाम् । स्त्रियो रुदन्तीरासाद्य द्रष्टुमिच्छसि दु:खिता: ॥ १४ ॥
indra-jyeṣṭhaiḥ sva-tanayair hatānāṁ yudhi vidviṣām striyo rudantīr āsādya draṣṭum icchasi duḥkhitāḥ
Deseas ver, con el corazón conmovido, a las esposas de los asuras lamentándose por la muerte de sus maridos cuando esos enemigos de tus hijos sean abatidos en batalla por los devas, con Indra a la cabeza.
FAQs
This verse highlights sensitivity to suffering even among opponents: Aditi is asked if she wants to see the widows of the slain enemies, emphasizing compassion beyond victory.
Kashyapa addresses Aditi’s emotional state after conflict involving her sons led by Indra, probing her intention and guiding her toward dharmic, composed understanding before further action.
Even when you “win” a conflict, remember others may be hurt—respond with restraint, empathy, and responsibility rather than pride or vengeance.