There are many such stories in Indian Puranas that guide us to live life. One of these is the story of Narada ji and Lord Shiva, in which Lord Shiva broke Narada ji’s pride and taught him the lesson of humility. This story is famous by the name of “Narada Moh” and makes it clear that ego can also become an obstacle in the path of devotion.
Narada ji got pride in form
Narada ji is considered to be a supreme devotee and dear to Lord Vishnu. Once he did harsh penance and Lord Vishnu appeared in front of him. Narada ji said that he has won “Maya”. Lord Vishnu smiled and did not say anything. Narada ji started boasting on his tenacity and disinterest.
Beautiful princess and swayamvara
After some time Narada ji reached a beautiful city, where a very beautiful princess was about to be a swayamvara. Narada ji, seeing the princess, expressed his desire to marry and prayed to Lord Vishnu to give them such a form that the princess should choose her as a groom. Lord Vishnu accepted his request and gave him a wonderful face – but with a particular illusion.
Hanuman’s face – and the princess rejects
When Narada ji reached Swayamvar, everyone laughed at him. Narada ji did not understand why people are doing this. When he saw his face in a pond, he was shocked – his face became like Hanuman! The princess turned them down and seated Vishnu as a groom. Narada ji realized that Lord Vishnu deliberately gave him such a face so that his pride could break. Enraged, he reached to curse Lord Vishnu. At the same time, Lord Shiva appeared and explained to them that this pride was causing his downfall.
Lord Shiva gave education
Lord Shiva said to Narada ji,
“A person who demonstrates his knowledge, penance or devotion and raises pride in it cannot be a true seeker.” Narada ji’s eyes opened and he admitted his mistake. He apologized to both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva and again moved on the path of devotion with humility.
Learn
Humility is the greatest quality. No matter how knowledgeable, devotee or ascetic, if we have ego within us, it destroys our practice.
It is not easy to win Maya. Only God can understand God’s Leela and Maya.
There is depth in God’s plan. What we feel bad can also be for our good.
