Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 7.8.27
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesTemporary Freedom Can Feed False Pride
“When Hiraṇyakaśipu was freed from the hands of Nṛsiṁhadeva, he falsely thought that the Lord was afraid of his prowess. Therefore, after taking a little rest from the fight, he took up his sword and shield and again attacked the Lord with great force.”
What the purport teaches
- Hiraṇyakaśipu falsely thought that the Lord had released him out of fear of his prowess. After resting, he attacked again with sword and shield.
- By the will of the Supreme, a sinful person may temporarily enjoy material facilities as if free from material nature’s control. Such enjoyment can mislead that person.
- Acting against the laws of nature still brings punishment. Hiraṇyakaśipu’s temporary release did not change his destined death at the Lord’s hands.
Try this today
Notice one comfort you enjoy today, and remind yourself that enjoyment does not prove that every choice you make is right.
Ask yourself
Do I ever mistake temporary comfort or success for freedom from consequences?
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.