Samudra Manthan Story – Chapter 2: Help from Vishnu

Help from Vishnu

In the previous chapter, we saw that Indra and other deities, defeated in the war with the demons, had become powerless. Heaven had become devoid of glory and the radiance of the gods had diminished. An atmosphere of despair and fear prevailed. They could see no way to regain the throne of heaven.

Despair of the Gods

A grave silence hung over the assembly of the gods. The despair of defeat was clearly visible on every face. Indra, once known for his power and glory, sat quietly and weakly today. His Vajra lay lifeless in his hand, as if its power had also diminished. In their desire for nectar, the gods had lost their power, and now they were unable to defend themselves. The fear of the Asuras had settled in their minds, and it seemed difficult to get rid of that fear.

Indra said softly, "What should we do? Our power is exhausted. We no longer have the ability to fight the demons. Will we lose heaven forever?" There was deep despair in his voice, which settled in the minds of all the gods. Brihaspati, the guru of the gods, also shook his head worriedly. "The situation is serious, Indra. But we must be patient. We must find a way."

Consultation with Vishnu

Brihaspati suggested to the gods that they should consult Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu is the only one who can show the way out of this crisis. He is the protector and also the protector of the gods. The gods accepted Brihaspati's suggestion and they all set off towards the Ksheersagar, where Lord Vishnu rests on Sheshnag. Dressed in white clothes, with calm and serious expressions, the gods approached Lord Vishnu.

When the gods described their plight to Vishnu, Vishnu assured them. He said, "Gods, be patient. This crisis will surely pass. The power of the Asuras has increased due to their penance and Brahma ji's boon, but it will not last forever. I know how to solve this problem." There was wonderful peace and power in the voice of Lord Vishnu, which infused hope within the gods.

Plan of Samudra Manthan

Lord Vishnu told the plan of Samudra Manthan. He said that churning the Ksheersagar will produce nectar, by drinking which the gods will become immortal and will be able to regain their power. But this task was not possible for the gods alone, because immense power would be required for churning. Therefore, Vishnu suggested that the gods should churn the ocean together with the Asuras. The Asuras would easily agree to cooperate in the churning in the greed of nectar.

Lord Vishnu further said, "This task will not be easy. Many poisonous things will also come out during the churning, which will be a threat to both the gods and the Asuras. But in the end, nectar will definitely be obtained. My blessings are with you." Saying this, Lord Vishnu disappeared. A new hope was infused in the minds of the gods. They felt that by the grace of Vishnu, a way would surely be found and they would be able to regain their lost power. They began preparing to form an alliance with the Asuras, knowing that it was a risky step, but it was necessary to obtain nectar.