Prahlada Listens to Narada

1. While Hiranyakashipu performed austerities, the demigods defeated his army. His pregnant wife Kayadhu was left without protection.
2. King Indra took Kayadhu away because he thought her child would become a dangerous demon. The frightened mother wept and begged for mercy.
3. On the road they met the great sage Narada Muni. He immediately stopped Indra.
4. Narada explained that Kayadhu carried a pure devotee of the Lord. This child would never harm anyone.
5. Indra trusted the saintly sage. He respectfully walked around Kayadhu and released her.
6. Narada brought Kayadhu to his peaceful ashram. There she could safely wait for her husband's return.
7. Holy names were sung in the ashram, and every guest received care. Kayadhu's heart gradually became peaceful.
8. Kayadhu asked the sage to protect her unborn baby. Narada assured her that the child was under the Lord's special protection.
9. Every day Narada taught her about the soul and the Supreme Lord. He explained, “We are not the body; we are eternal souls, and the Lord lives in everyone's heart.”
10. Narada taught her to hear about the Lord, chant His names, and remember Him. Such service cleans the heart and brings real happiness.
11. Kayadhu listened carefully to the sage. Much later, however, she forgot many of his teachings.
12. The baby in her womb listened to every word too. He received Narada's instructions with deep faith.
13. This child was Prahlada. Even before his birth, he remembered the Supreme Lord.
14. Narada explained that no one would be able to harm this child. By the Lord's mercy, Prahlada would become a great devotee.
15. When Hiranyakashipu returned, Kayadhu left the ashram. She bowed gratefully to Narada Muni.
16. Soon Prahlada was born, a beautiful and peaceful boy. His gentle smile delighted his mother.
17. Prahlada respected his elders, was kind to his friends, and cared for younger children. He saw the Supreme Lord within everyone's heart.
18. No one in the palace understood where his wisdom came from. Prahlada had simply kept everything he heard from Narada within his heart.

Sources for parents

• A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Srimad-Bhagavatam 7.7 — Prahlada's teachings about the soul and devotional service.
• A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita As It Is 15.7 — the living being as an eternal part of the Lord.