Who · Lord Varāha, Hiraṇyākṣa, Hiraṇyakaśipu, Nārada, Brahmā, Diti
The story · Terrible disturbances accompanied the appearance of two powerful demons, and Hiraṇyākṣa’s strength and pride terrified the gods and ocean creatures. Learning the Lord’s whereabouts from Nārada, he hurried into the ocean and challenged Lord Varāha over the earth He carried. The Lord brought the frightened earth out of the water and fought the demon with His mace. Brahmā prayed for the defeat of this tormentor of the demigods, brāhmaṇas, cows, and innocent persons. After killing Hiraṇyākṣa, the Lord returned to His own abode, praised by the demigods.
What it teaches · The Lord protects those who depend upon His lotus feet. Brahmā regarded even Hiraṇyākṣa’s death at the Lord’s hands as blessed.