Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, 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
O walang kwentang anak ng brāhmaṇa, sinuway mo ang aking utos at kumampi ka sa aking mga kaaway. Itinuro mo sa batang ito ang walang saysay na debosyon!
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.