The Story of Prahlada of Devotion

Day 164

The Story of Prahlada

Prahlada’s Devotion

Transformation into Vishnu’s Image

After transforming himself into the image of Vishnu, Prahlada thought about worshipping Vishnu. He decided to mentally worship the image of Vishnu seated on Garuda, following all traditional rituals.

Mental and External Worship

Prahlada worshipped Vishnu mentally with all traditional materials and external rites. He felt immense joy after completing this worship. From then on, Prahlada worshipped Vishnu daily. Inspired by him, all the demons in his kingdom also became devoted to Vishnu.

Gods’ Doubt and Vishnu’s Assurance

Surprise in Heaven

The gods were bewildered to hear that the demons had become Vishnu's devotees. They approached Vishnu with their doubts.

Gods’ Inquiry

The gods questioned Vishnu, finding it hard to believe that the demons, traditionally his enemies, had become his devotees overnight.

Vishnu’s Explanation

Vishnu reassured the gods, explaining that Prahlada’s transformation was genuine. He emphasized that it’s always good to hear about someone becoming virtuous. Prahlada's devotion marked his last birth, and he deserved liberation.

Prahlada’s Daily Worship

Daily Devotion

Every day, Prahlada worshipped Vishnu with thought, word, and deed. As a result, noble qualities like wisdom and dispassion grew in him. He abandoned craving for pleasure and lived a life free from desire.

Vishnu’s Visit

Vishnu came to know about Prahlada's state and visited him in the netherworld. Overjoyed, Prahlada worshipped Vishnu again.

Prahlada’s Prayer

Prahlada’s Reverence

Prahlada prayed, expressing his deep devotion and seeking refuge in Vishnu. He praised Vishnu’s divine qualities and sought protection and guidance.

Prahlada’s Request

Prahlada asked Vishnu for a boon that would help him attain liberation and end all delusions.

Vishnu’s Blessing

Vishnu’s Boon

Vishnu granted Prahlada the boon of the spirit of enquiry, leading him to rest in the infinite Brahman and attain the highest blessing.

This story highlights Prahlada's unwavering devotion to Vishnu, the power of sincere worship, and the ultimate blessing of liberation granted by divine grace.