The story behind why Lord Krishna took birth to Devaki is rooted in the cosmic struggle between good and evil, and the divine purpose of restoring dharma (righteousness) in the world. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna's birth was ordained by destiny and the will of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
The Background: The Tyranny of Kansa
The tale begins in the kingdom of Mathura, ruled by the tyrant king Kansa. Kansa was notorious for his cruelty and oppression, spreading fear and suffering among his people. His evil deeds were so severe that they disturbed the balance of the cosmos, and Mother Earth herself was burdened by the weight of his tyranny. In desperation, the Earth took the form of a cow and approached Lord Vishnu, pleading for relief from the suffering inflicted by Kansa.
Lord Vishnu, in his infinite compassion, promised that he would take birth in human form to destroy Kansa and restore righteousness to the world. This divine intervention would come in the form of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.
The Prophecy
Kansa's downfall was prophesied on the day of his sister Devaki's marriage to Vasudeva, a nobleman from the Yadava clan. During the wedding, a celestial voice (Aakashvani) warned Kansa that Devaki’s eighth child would be the one to end his reign of terror. Terrified by this prophecy, Kansa immediately drew his sword to kill his sister, believing that this would prevent the prophecy from coming true.
However, Vasudeva intervened, pleading with Kansa to spare Devaki's life. He promised that he would hand over each of their children to Kansa, who could then decide their fate. Reluctantly, Kansa agreed but imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva in a dungeon, where he could keep a close watch on them.
The Birth of Devaki’s First Seven Children
As Devaki and Vasudeva first six children were born, Kansa cruelly murdered each one, determined to prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled. The seventh child, however, was miraculously transferred from Devaki's womb to that of Vasudeva's first wife, Rohini, who was living in the safety of Gokul. This child was Balarama, Krishna's elder brother, who would later assist him in his divine mission.
The Birth of Krishna
When the time came for the birth of the eighth child, the prophecy was set to unfold. Devaki and Vasudeva were filled with both fear and hope, knowing that this child was destined to bring an end to Kansa's tyranny. On the night of Krishna's birth, miraculous events took place.
It was a dark and stormy night, yet the prison where Devaki and Vasudeva were held was suddenly filled with a divine light. The chains that bound Vasudeva fell off, and the doors of the prison miraculously opened. The guards were put into a deep sleep by divine intervention. It was clear that this child was no ordinary child-he was Lord Vishnu incarnate, born to fulfill the prophecy and restore dharma.
Following divine instructions, Vasudeva carried the newborn Krishna in a basket across the stormy Yamuna River to the village of Gokul. Miraculously, the river parted to allow them safe passage, and the serpent Sheshnag shielded the baby from the rain with his many hoods. In Gokul, Krishna was placed in the care of Yashoda and Nanda Maharaj, who raised him as their own son. Meanwhile, Vasudeva returned to the prison with Yashoda's newborn daughter, who was then presented to Kansa.
When Kansa tried to kill this child, she transformed into the goddess Yogamaya and warned him that the child destined to kill him was already born and safe. This revelation filled Kansa with dread, but despite his efforts to find and kill Krishna, the divine plan was already in motion.
The Divine Purpose of Krishna’s Birth
Krishna's birth was not merely to fulfill a prophecy but to uphold the cosmic order and protect the world from the forces of evil. His life is filled with stories of divine interventions, miracles, and teachings that continue to inspire millions. Krishna was born to guide humanity towards righteousness, love, and devotion.
Restoration of Dharma: Krishna's primary purpose was to restore dharma in the world. Through his actions, teachings, and divine leelas (playful acts), he demonstrated the importance of living a life in accordance with truth and justice.
Destruction of Evil: Krishna's birth was destined to end the tyranny of Kansa and other evil forces that plagued the earth. By defeating Kansa and later playing a pivotal role in the Mahabharata war, Krishna ensured that righteousness prevailed over evil.
Spiritual Guidance: Through his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna provided spiritual wisdom that continues to guide humanity. His message of karma yoga (selfless action), bhakti (devotion), and jnana (knowledge) remains relevant and influential to this day.
Krishna’s birth to Devaki was a divine event orchestrated by Lord Vishnu to restore balance in the world. It signifies the eternal struggle between good and evil and the assurance that divine intervention will always occur to protect righteousness and justice.
The Role of Incense in Krishna Janmashtami Puja
Incense, known as Dhoop or Agarbatti, plays a vital role in the rituals and puja (worship) performed on Krishna Janmashtami. The use of incense is not just a symbolic act; it carries deep spiritual significance and is an essential element in creating a sacred atmosphere during the puja.
1. Purification and Sanctification
The burning of sandalwood incense is believed to purify the environment by removing negative energies and creating a serene and divine ambiance. The smoke from the incense is considered to carry prayers and offerings to the divine realms. Before beginning the puja, devotees light incense to sanctify the space, ensuring that it is clean and conducive for worship.
2. Invoking the Divine Presence
In Hindu rituals, incense is often used as an offering to the deities. The fragrant smoke symbolizes the presence of the divine and helps in invoking the blessings of Lord Krishna. The rising smoke is seen as a medium that connects the physical world with the spiritual, bridging the gap between the devotee and the deity.
3. Enhancing Concentration and Meditation
The soothing fragrance of Raghukul incense sticks aids in calming the mind and enhancing concentration during meditation and prayer. As devotees chant mantras or recite the Bhagavad Gita, the fragrance of the incense helps in focusing their thoughts and deepening their connection with Lord Krishna. It creates an atmosphere of tranquility, allowing devotees to immerse themselves in devotion and contemplation.
4. Symbolism of Transience
The burning of incense is also symbolic of the transience of life. As the incense burns and gradually diminishes, it serves as a reminder of the impermanence of the physical world and the eternal nature of the soul. This symbolism is especially relevant during Krishna Janmashtami, a time when devotees reflect on the teachings of Lord Krishna, particularly the importance of detachment and spiritual wisdom.
5. Offering Gratitude and Devotion
Lighting incense is an expression of gratitude and devotion to Lord Krishna. It is a way of honoring his presence and offering the best of what nature provides – aromatic herbs, resins, and oils. The offering of incense is accompanied by prayers and chants, expressing love, devotion, and reverence for the divine.
Conclusion
The story of Krishna’s birth to Devaki is not just a tale of divine intervention, but a profound narrative that reflects the triumph of good over evil and the fulfillment of destiny. As we celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, we honor this sacred event that marks the beginning of Lord Krishna's journey on Earth. His birth symbolizes hope, the restoration of righteousness, and the assurance that the divine will always protect dharma. Krishna’s life and teachings continue to inspire us, reminding us to live with faith, love, and devotion. This Janmashtami, let us reflect on the divine purpose behind Krishna’s birth and seek his blessings for a righteous and fulfilling life.
The use of incense in the puja ritual adds depth and meaning to the celebration, creating a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds. As the fragrant smoke rises, it carries with it the prayers, devotion, and love of millions of devotees, reaching out to Lord Krishna in the hope of receiving his divine blessings.
As Krishna Janmashtami 2024 approaches, let us prepare our hearts and homes for this joyous occasion, and let the divine fragrance of incense guide us on our spiritual path.
