Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 10.18.27
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesBalarāma’s Fear Is a Pastime
“When Lord Balarāma, who carries the plow weapon, saw the gigantic body of the demon as he moved swiftly in the sky — with his blazing eyes, fiery hair, terrible teeth reaching toward his scowling brows, and an amazing effulgence generated by his armlets, crown and earrings — the Lord seemed to become a little frightened.”
What the purport teaches
- Seeing the demon’s gigantic body, blazing eyes, fiery hair and terrible teeth, Balarāma appeared slightly frightened. He was playfully maintaining the role of an ordinary cowherd boy.
- Because Kṛṣṇa had accepted the disguised demon as a friend, Balarāma was slightly apprehensive about killing him. He could also have been concerned that another disguised demon might be attacking Kṛṣṇa.
- The purport explains that Balarāma is the omniscient and omnipotent Supreme Lord. His slight nervousness was an exhibited pastime, not a lack of divine power.
Try this today
Reread the words “seemed to become a little frightened,” remembering the purport’s explanation of His playful role.
Ask yourself
How does the purport change my understanding of Balarāma’s apparent fear?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
From Canto 10, chapter 14 onward, the translation and purports were completed by Śrīla Prabhupāda's disciples after his departure, and published by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.