Smart Quote of the Day, June 10, 2020

“When demons become powerful, the entire world is placed in an awkward position because demons are simply interested in their own sense gratification and not in the welfare of the world. Demigods or devotees, however, are concerned with the welfare of all living beings.”

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This is from the Srimad-Bhagavatam 8.5.19-20

[This chapter of the Srimad-Bhagavatam is entitled “The Demigods Appeal to the Lord for Protection.” Included here is a genealogy of Manus—administrators of the universe—along with a narration of prayers by the demigods to the Supreme Person.]

TRANSLATION

Upon seeing that the demigods were bereft of all influence and strength and that the three worlds were consequently devoid of auspiciousness, and upon seeing that the demigods were in an awkward position whereas all the demons were flourishing, Lord Brahma, who is above all the demigods and who is most powerful, concentrated his mind on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Thus being encouraged, he became bright-faced and spoke to the demigods as follows.

PURPORT:

After hearing from the demigods the real situation, Lord Brahma was very much concerned because the demons were unnecessarily so powerful.

When demons become powerful, the entire world is placed in an awkward position because demons are simply interested in their own sense gratification and not in the welfare of the world. Demigods or devotees, however, are concerned with the welfare of all living beings.

Srila Rupa Goswami, for example, left his ministership and went to Vrindavana for the benefit of the entire world (lokanam hita-karinau). This is the nature of a saintly person or demigod. Even impersonalists think of the welfare of all people. Thus Brahma was very much concerned at seeing the demons in power.


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