Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 7.2.18-19
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesGentle Words Amid Strong Anger
“O King, Hiraṇyakaśipu was extremely angry, but since he was a great politician, he knew how to act according to the time and situation. With sweet words he began pacifying his nephews, whose names were Śakuni, Śambara, Dhṛṣṭi, Bhūtasantāpana, Vṛka, Kālanābha, Mahānābha, Hariśmaśru and Utkaca. He also consoled their mother, his sister-in-law, Ruṣābhānu, as well as his own mother, Diti. He spoke to them all as follows.”
What the purport teaches
- Hiraṇyakaśipu was extremely angry, yet as a great politician he knew how to act according to the time and situation.
- He used sweet words to pacify his nephews.
- He also consoled their mother, Ruṣābhānu, and his own mother, Diti. His words of consolation included the grieving family.
Try this today
In one difficult conversation today, pause and choose gentle words.
Ask yourself
How does my tone affect someone who needs comfort?
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.