Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 18
Vṛtrāsura Instructs Indra on Providence and Devotion; The Slaying of Vṛtrāsura
श्रीशुक उवाच इन्द्रो वृत्रवच: श्रुत्वा गतालीकमपूजयत् । गृहीतवज्र: प्रहसंस्तमाह गतविस्मय: ॥ १८ ॥
śrī-śuka uvāca indro vṛtra-vacaḥ śrutvā gatālīkam apūjayat gṛhīta-vajraḥ prahasaṁs tam āha gata-vismayaḥ
圣舒迦提婆说：因陀罗听到弗利特罗阿修罗直率而教诲性的言辞，便称赞他，并再次把金刚雷杵握在手中。他不再迷惘，也无虚伪，含笑对弗利特罗阿修罗说道如下。
King Indra, the greatest of the demigods, was astonished to hear the instructions of Vṛtrāsura, who was supposed to be a demon. He was struck with wonder that a demon could speak so intelligently. Then he remembered great devotees like Prahlāda Mahārāja and Bali Mahārāja, who had been born in the families of demons, and thus he came to his senses. Even so-called demons sometimes have exalted devotion for the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Therefore Indra smiled reassuringly at Vṛtrāsura.
FAQs
This verse shows Indra respecting Vṛtrāsura after hearing his exalted words—teaching that genuine devotion commands honor beyond external opposition.
Vṛtrāsura’s speech removed Indra’s doubt and surprise; regaining clarity and composure, Indra responded while holding his vajra.
Recognize sincerity and virtue wherever it appears, respond without deceit, and maintain respect even during conflict or disagreement.