Srimad Bhagavatam — Saptama Skandha, Shloka 43
Prahlāda Rejects Demonic Diplomacy and Proclaims Navadhā Bhakti
दिग्गजैर्दन्दशूकेन्द्रैरभिचारावपातनै: । मायाभि: सन्निरोधैश्च गरदानैरभोजनै: । हिमवाय्वग्निसलिलै: पर्वताक्रमणैरपि ॥ ४३ ॥ न शशाक यदा हन्तुमपापमसुर: सुतम् । चिन्तां दीर्घतमां प्राप्तस्तत्कर्तुं नाभ्यपद्यत ॥ ४४ ॥
dig-gajair dandaśūkendrair abhicārāvapātanaiḥ māyābhiḥ sannirodhaiś ca gara-dānair abhojanaiḥ
Kahit ipayapak sa malalaking elepante, ihagis sa gitna ng dambuhalang ahas, gumamit ng mapanirang salamangka, ihulog mula sa tuktok ng bundok, magpakana ng mga daya ng māyā, lasunin, gutumin, ilantad sa matinding lamig, hangin, apoy at tubig, o durugin ng mabibigat na bato—hindi pa rin napatay ng asura ang kanyang anak na walang kasalanan. Nang makita niyang di niya masaktan si Prahlāda, nalugmok siya sa napakahabang pag-aalala: ano pa ang gagawin?
FAQs
He employed many violent methods—elephants, deadly snakes, sorcery, imprisonment, poison, starvation, and exposure to extreme elements like fire, water, wind, cold, and crushing by mountains—yet Prahlāda remained unharmed.
Prahlāda is described as apāpa (sinless) and protected by his unwavering devotion to Bhagavān; the narrative emphasizes that a true devotee is safeguarded by divine will despite material dangers.
Steadfast devotion and integrity can keep one inwardly protected and fearless amid hostility, pressure, or hardship—encouraging resilience grounded in spiritual practice.