Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.16.11
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesPṛthu’s Strength Is Like Fire
“King Pṛthu was born of the dead body of King Vena as fire is produced from araṇi wood. Thus King Pṛthu will always remain just like fire, and his enemies will not be able to approach him. Indeed, he will be unbearable to his enemies, for although staying very near him, they will never be able to approach him but will have to remain as if far away. No one will be able to overcome the strength of King Pṛthu.”
What the purport teaches
- Araṇi wood is used to ignite fire by friction when sacrifices are performed.
- Although King Pṛthu was born of his dead father, King Vena, he would remain powerful like fire.
- Just as fire is not easily approached, Pṛthu would be unapproachable by his enemies. Even those nearby would be unable to overcome him.
Try this today
Read the fire comparison again and write one sentence explaining what it teaches about Pṛthu.
Ask yourself
How does the comparison with fire help me understand Pṛthu’s strength?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.