Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 35
Pauṇḍraka’s False Vāsudeva Claim, His Death, and the Burning of Vārāṇasī by Sudarśana
तमाभिचारदहनमायान्तं द्वारकौकस: । विलोक्य तत्रसु: सर्वे वनदाहे मृगा यथा ॥ ३५ ॥
tam ābhicāra-dahanam āyāntaṁ dvārakaukasaḥ vilokya tatrasuḥ sarve vana-dāhe mṛgā yathā
Nang makita ng mga taga-Dvārakā ang demonyong apoy na nilikha ng ritwal na abhicāra na papalapit, silang lahat ay nanginig sa takot na parang mga hayop sa sunog sa gubat.
FAQs
This verse shows a sorcerous fire approaching Dvārakā and frightening the citizens, setting the stage for Lord Kṛṣṇa’s protection—implying that such threats may appear, but the Lord safeguards His devotees and abode.
They saw an “ābhicāra-dahana”—a fire created by hostile magical rites—advancing toward the city, and they panicked like animals trapped by a forest wildfire.
When fear spreads like a wildfire, remember that panic worsens suffering; take refuge in prayer, steadiness, and dharmic action—trusting the Divine protection that the Bhagavatam repeatedly emphasizes.