SB 10.17.13-25: Kṛṣṇa Swallows Fire to Save His Friends

Hare Krsna,

This lesson about the pastime of Kṛṣṇa swallowing the forest fire to save the Vrajavāsīs coincides with the recent, and still developing, devastating forest fires in Los Angeles. The contrast between the attitudes and responses of the people in Vṛndāvana and Los Angeles during these crises is striking.

In Los Angeles, the city and the state of California have mobilized all available resources and machinery to control the fire, prioritizing the protection of communities and their properties. Yet, despite their best efforts, the authorities are unable to tame the fierce winds that continue to fan the chaotic flames. The sheer geographical scale of the fires makes it impossible to control them fully with human means. Firefighters and their engines are unable to reach every corner, leaving many affected individuals scrambling to save their lives. Billions of dollars’ worth of property has been destroyed, and in the aftermath, political blame games have emerged.

Amidst such destruction, suffering, and extensive media coverage, few pause to reflect on the overwhelming power of nature, its ultimate controller, or the possibility of seeking solace or solutions by turning to a higher power—perhaps even to the Supreme Lord. The pastime of Kṛṣṇa effortlessly swallowing the forest fire serves as a powerful reminder of the divine’s ability to protect and restore order, contrasting the material struggles to address natural calamities. Perhaps such moments invite us to contemplate deeper truths and seek harmony with the Divine will.

The pastime of Kṛṣṇa swallowing the forest fire not only demonstrates His divine power but also highlights the unwavering faith and surrender of the Vrajavāsīs in the face of mortal danger. After spending the night by the bank of the Yamunā, still wary of the poisonous waters of Kāliya’s lake, the residents of Vṛndāvana found themselves surrounded by a raging forest fire. This blaze, fueled by the dry summer heat, posed an insurmountable threat to their lives, leaving them no choice but to turn to Kṛṣṇa for protection.

The Vrajavāsīs, though engaged in simple agricultural lives, held a profound understanding of Kṛṣṇa’s divine nature. When the fire began to scorch the forest, their immediate response was not panic but complete reliance on Kṛṣṇa. Their prayers, as recorded in the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, reflect their deep trust:

“Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa, O Lord of all opulence! O Rāma, possessor of unlimited power! This most terrible fire is about to devour us, Your devotees!” (SB 10.19.23)

This plea reveals their absolute dependence on Kṛṣṇa and their understanding of His position as the Supreme Protector. They appealed to Him not merely for physical safety but out of fear of being separated from His lotus feet. Their prayers expressed their ultimate desire to continue serving Him, even amidst imminent danger:

“O Lord, we are Your true friends and devotees. Please protect us from this insurmountable fire of death. We can never give up Your lotus feet, which drive away all fear.” (SB 10.19.24)

Kṛṣṇa, moved by their devotion and recognizing their distress, immediately acted to protect them. Demonstrating His infinite potency (sakti dhrk), He effortlessly swallowed the fire. This act, though seemingly miraculous, exemplifies how the Lord’s saṁhārikā-śakti (destructive power) operates within His eternal spiritual form. It is a reminder that Kṛṣṇa’s divine energy, fueled by His love for His devotees, transcends all material limitations.

This pastime is a timeless example of how turning to the Supreme Lord with genuine devotion and humility can provide refuge from the most insurmountable challenges. In today’s world, where crises such as natural disasters and personal struggles abound, the Vrajavāsīs’ unwavering faith in Kṛṣṇa serves as a beacon, guiding us to seek shelter in the divine and find peace amidst the chaos.

Srila Prabhupada said at various places how Krsna consciousness can truly save the worlḍ.

“At the present moment practically the entire world is afraid of rogues and nondevotees; therefore this Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement is started to save the world from irreligious principles. Everyone should cooperate with this movement in order to bring about actual peace and happiness in the world.” (SB 4.28.48 Purport)

“The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement is the only hope to save the world from such devastation. It is the most scientific and authorized movement for the actual welfare of the whole human society.” (SB 5.2.1 Purport)

All glories to Srila Prabhupada!