Shloka 26
Prahlāda Rejects Demonic Diplomacy and Proclaims Navadhā Bhakti
ब्रह्मबन्धो किमेतत्ते विपक्षं श्रयतासता । असारं ग्राहितो बालो मामनादृत्य दुर्मते ॥ २६ ॥
brahma-bandho kim etat te vipakṣaṁ śrayatāsatā asāraṁ grāhito bālo mām anādṛtya durmate
ஓ தகுதியற்ற பிராமணனே! நீ என் கட்டளையை மீறி என் எதிரிகளின் கட்சியைச் சார்ந்திருக்கிறாய். அறிவற்றவனே! இந்தச் சிறுவனுக்குப் பயனற்றதைக் கற்பித்திருக்கிறாயே!
In this verse the word asāram, meaning, “having no substance,” is significant. For a demon there is no substance in the process of devotional service, but to a devotee devotional service is the only essential factor in life. Since Hiraṇyakaśipu did not like devotional service, the essence of life, he chastised Prahlāda Mahārāja’s teachers with harsh words.
FAQs
This verse shows how demoniac pride interprets devotion as “joining the enemy,” revealing that hostility to bhakti arises from ignorance and envy rather than truth.
Hiraṇyakaśipu, angered by Prahlāda’s devotion to Viṣṇu, accuses him of siding with an enemy and blames his teachers—trying to shame and control him.
When spiritual values are mocked or opposed, remain steady and discerning—do not abandon what is essential for what is “worthless” just to gain approval.