Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 50
Hiraṇyakaśipu’s Wrath, the Assault on Vedic Culture, and the Boy-Yamarāja’s Teaching on the Soul
लुब्धको विपिने कश्चित्पक्षिणां निर्मितोऽन्तक: । वितत्य जालं विदधे तत्र तत्र प्रलोभयन् ॥ ५० ॥
lubdhako vipine kaścit pakṣiṇāṁ nirmito ’ntakaḥ vitatya jālaṁ vidadhe tatra tatra pralobhayan
Il y avait jadis dans la forêt un chasseur avide, tel la mort pour les oiseaux. Il étendait un filet et, les appâtant de nourriture çà et là, les capturait.
This is another incident from the histories.
FAQs
This verse compares temptation to a fowler’s bait and net—greed and allurements draw the unwary into bondage, just as birds are lured and caught.
Within the Prahlāda-related narration, Śukadeva uses vivid imagery to show how material attraction and deception can become “death” for spiritual progress, urging vigilance and discrimination.
Recognize “bait” (addictive habits, ego-validation, quick gains) and avoid situations that repeatedly entangle you; choose sādhana, good association, and disciplined senses over impulsive attraction.