Birth of Narada
Narada was the son of
Brahma, born from his lap. Brahma, the creator god, also created seven great
sages known as the Saptarishis. Their names were Marici, Angiras, Atri,
Pulastya, Vasistha, Pulaha, and Kratu. From Brahma’s anger, Rudra (Shiva) was
born. From his right thumb, he created Daksha, and from his mind, he created
Sanaka and other sages. Brahma also had a daughter named Virani, born from his
left thumb. Daksha later married Virani.
Important Stories About Narada
1. Narada and the Power of a Chant
Once, Brahma taught Narada a powerful chant that could
remove all sins from the Kali Yuga (the present age). The chant was: Hare Rama
Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare
Hare. This mantra is now widely known as the Hare Krishna mantra and is
believed to bring peace and liberation.
2. Narada and the Writing of the Ramayana
Narada played an important role in inspiring Valmiki
to write the Ramayana. One day, Valmiki asked Narada who the greatest man in
the world was. Narada replied that it was Lord Rama and told Valmiki a short
version of Rama’s story. Later, Valmiki saw a hunter kill a bird and, feeling
deep sorrow, composed a verse, which became the first shloka (verse) of the
Ramayana.
3. Narada and Veda Vyasa’s Son
Veda Vyasa, the great sage who compiled the
Mahabharata, was once very sad because he had no children. When he asked Narada
for advice, Narada told him to worship Parashakti, the supreme power. Vyasa
followed his advice and performed prayers at Kailasa (Lord Shiva’s abode). As a
result, he was blessed with a son named Suka.
4. Narada and Goddess Lakshmi
One day, Narada visited Vaikuntha, the home of Lord
Vishnu, playing his vina (a musical instrument). As soon as Lakshmi, Vishnu’s
wife, saw him, she shyly went inside. Narada asked Vishnu why Lakshmi behaved
that way. Vishnu explained that nobody can fully escape Maya (illusion).
Lakshmi’s brief attraction to Narada was due to the influence of Maya.
5. Narada and Mount Vindhya
Narada once played a small role in the story of Mount Vindhya.
The mountain wanted to be taller than the Sun’s path. Narada jokingly told
Vindhya that the Sun always circled Mount Meru, ignoring Vindhya. Envious,
Vindhya began growing taller. Later, the sage Agastya had to push the mountain
down to stop it from growing further.
6. Narada’s Visit to the Underworld
Narada once traveled to Patalaloka (the underworld),
where he was warmly welcomed by the great devotee Prahlada, son of the demon
king Hiranyakashipu. Narada later returned after being treated as a respected
guest.
7. Narada’s Curse on Kubera’s Sons
Once, Narada cursed Nalakubara and Manigriva, the sons
of Kubera, the god of wealth. Because of his curse, they were turned into two
trees. They were later freed from this curse when baby Krishna touched them
with his mortar while playing.
8. Narada and Kamsa
Narada played a role in the story of Lord Krishna’s
early life. He told Kamsa, Krishna’s wicked uncle, that Krishna was living in Gokul.
He also revealed Krishna’s past and his divine nature, which made Kamsa fearful
and angry.
9. Narada and the Demon Vrkasura
Once, the demon Vrkasura asked Narada which of the
three supreme gods (Brahma, Vishnu, or Shiva) was easiest to please. Narada
said it was Lord Shiva. Vrkasura followed Narada’s advice, performed deep
penance, and won Lord Shiva’s favor.
Conclusion
Narada was a very special sage in Hindu mythology. He traveled across the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the underworld) and influenced many great events. He was known for his wisdom, devotion to Lord Vishnu, and love for spreading spiritual knowledge. He was also mischievous at times, but his actions always led to the greater good.
No comments:
Post a Comment