Shloka 23
Mohinī-mūrti Distributes Amṛta; Rāhu is Severed; Results Differ by Shelter
तस्यां कृतातिप्रणया: प्रणयापायकातरा: । बहुमानेन चाबद्धा नोचु: किञ्चन विप्रियम् ॥ २३ ॥
tasyāṁ kṛtātipraṇayāḥ praṇayāpāya-kātarāḥ bahu-mānena cābaddhā nocuḥ kiñcana vipriyam
Para asura telah menaruh hati pada Mohini-murti dan takut merosakkan hubungan mereka. Oleh itu, mereka menunjukkan rasa hormat dan tidak berkata apa-apa yang tidak menyenangkan.
The demons were so captivated by the tricks and friendly words of Mohinī-mūrti that although the demigods were served first, the demons were pacified merely by sweet words. The Lord said to the demons, “The demigods are very miserly and are excessively anxious to take the nectar first. So let them have it first. Since you are not like them you can wait a little longer. You are all heroes and are so pleased with Me. It is better for you to wait until after the demigods drink.”
FAQs
It explains that overwhelming attraction made the asuras fearful of losing Mohinī’s favor, so they restrained themselves and avoided speaking anything displeasing—showing how desire can override discernment.
Because they were intensely captivated by her and anxious their affection or access to her might be lost, they became overly respectful and self-restrained.
It cautions that infatuation can distort judgment and behavior; cultivate clarity and self-control so decisions aren’t driven by attraction, fear of loss, or the need for approval.