Shloka 19
Veṇu-gīta-āhvāna and the Gopīs’ Appeal: The Opening of Rāsa-līlā
रजन्येषा घोररूपा घोरसत्त्वनिषेविता । प्रतियात व्रजं नेह स्थेयं स्त्रीभि: सुमध्यमा: ॥ १९ ॥
rajany eṣā ghora-rūpā ghora-sattva-niṣevitā pratiyāta vrajaṁ neha stheyaṁ strībhiḥ su-madhyamāḥ
ही रात्रि फार भयावह आहे आणि येथे भयंकर प्राणी वावरतात. हे सुमध्यमा, व्रजाला परत जा; स्त्रियांनी येथे थांबू नये।
Śrīla Viśvanātha Cakravartī Ṭhākura has written the following charming commentary on this verse:
FAQs
In 10.29.19, Kṛṣṇa points out the danger of the night and tells the gopīs to return to Vraja, setting up a loving test that highlights the depth and purity of their bhakti.
After calling them with His flute, Kṛṣṇa speaks in a way that appears discouraging—citing propriety and danger—so the gopīs’ unwavering, selfless devotion can be revealed and glorified.
True devotion is steady even when challenged; at the same time, spiritual life should be practiced with discernment, responsibility, and respect for appropriate conduct.