The Mysterious Deaths of Krishna's Six Infants and the Lessons They Teach

In the intricate tapestry of ancient Indian mythology, a fascinating tale revolves around the six children of Devaki and Vasudeva, who were born to face an isolated and dire fate. This narrative, rich with spiritual and philosophical implications, forms a significant chapter in the epic tale of Lord Krishna. Understanding the background of these infants and their eventual fate can offer profound insights into the cosmic justice and the journey towards liberation.

Introduction to the Asuras: The Six Infants

The six infants, born before Lord Krishna, had an extraordinary lineage. Intrinsically connected to the royal family of Danavas, their parents, Devaki and Vasudeva, were initially citizens of the heavenly realm. However, the destiny of these six children was marked by a spell of impending doom, as they would be born and swiftly slain by Kansa, a powerful and cruel ruler.

These six infants were once Asuras, or demon lords, known as Shadgarbhá, who had laughed at Brahma, the Creator of the universe. As punishment, Brahma cursed them to be reborn as human infants, destined to die at the hands of Kansa, an incarnation of their malevolent father, Hiranyakashipu.

The Curse and Its Implications

Upon granting the boons to the Asuras, Brahmam returned to his celestial abode. Angered and vengeful, Hiranyakashipu, the father of these Asuras, addressed them:

Abandoning me, you received boons from Brahma, and thus you have rejected my affection. I am rejecting you, who have become my enemies.

The same father who called you Shadgarbhá and brought you up will kill all of you when you are conceived.

Great Asuras, Shadgarbhá, will become Devaki’s conceptions. Then Kansa, incarnation of your father Kali-nemi, will kill you at conception.

This chilling prophecy underscored the cyclical nature of karma and the unbreakable link between cause and effect. Their potential for a liberating transformation was manifest in the ultimate sacrifice they were set to face, thereby serving as a warning about the consequences of one's actions.

Krishna's Mission and the Return of the Infants

When Krishna, born to prevent the wicked rule of Kansa, arrived in this world, his primary mission was to end the tyrant's reign. Notably, he also included within his purview the liberation of his six siblings. Vasudeva, aware of the spiritual and ethical imperative, carried the task of saving and returning the infants back to their mother, Devaki.

Through divine intervention, Krishna retrieved these infants from the underworld, where they were still in their infant form. He then brought them back to Earth, transforming them into babies again through divine power. Devaki, upon seeing her long-lost children, was filled with joy but also sorrow as she huddled and breastfed them, drawing them into her embrace.

The Journey to Moksha

The returned infants, though transformed back into their baby form, were in a unique state. Consumed with a longing for liberation, their souls were eager to reunite with their divine state. Krishna, recognizing their true identities and the purpose of their births, helped them achieve this state of moksha (liberation).

At the moment Devaki breastfed these infants, a divine milk was emitted, which brought them closer to their spiritual objectives. As these infants drank the milk that had been drunk as an infant by Krishna before he was taken by Vasudeva to Nanda and Yasoda, they were imbued with the essence of Krishna, leading them to moksha.

Conclusion: Lessons From the Babies' Fate

The tales of these six infants and their spiritual journey highlight several key aspects of the Hindu belief system. Their birth,.DependencyInjection, and eventual liberation through Krishna's grace provide a nuanced understanding of:

Theological concepts of karma and retribution. The transformative power of divine grace and intervention. The spiritual journey towards liberation (moksha).

The narrative serves as a poignant reminder that every life carries a unique purpose and that divine intervention can change the course of destinies. Through stories like these, the wisdom of ancient texts is made accessible, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of spiritual teachings.