Consequences of Disrespect

Indra, the majestic king of heaven, sat regally upon his golden throne, the divine light of the celestial realm shimmering around him. His beloved wife Shachi by his side, they revelled in an enchanting performance of music and dance, the melodies weaving through the air like ethereal threads. Laughter and applause filled the hall, a celebration of joy and beauty.

Indra Disrespects His Guru

But then, a sudden hush swept over the court as Sage Brihaspati, the revered Guru of all devatas, entered the grand hall. His presence commanded respect, radiating wisdom and power. Indra, caught in the grip of revelry, failed to rise from his throne and greet his esteemed Guru, a grave oversight for a king of his stature.

Brihaspati's eyes narrowed, a storm of disappointment brewing within him. Without uttering a single word, Brihaspati turned on his heel, leaving behind a trail of unease.

As Indra observed his Guru leaving the court, he felt a chill run down his spine. How could he have acted so foolishly, letting pride and ignorance cloud his judgment?

Determined to make amends, Indra headed towards his Guru's home to win his Guru’s forgiveness. The weight of his mistakes hung heavy on his shoulders, but he knew that redemption awaited him at the feet of Brihaspati, the legendary and omniscient sage.

The wise and powerful Brihaspati knew what Indra was thinking and vanished into thin air.

Indra entered the home of Brihaspati, confusion dancing in his eyes as he called out, "Guru Brihaspati, I come seeking your wisdom!"

The silence that followed was deafening. 

Indra pleaded, “Great Sage, I beg for your guidance! I am lost without your light!”

Indra left Guru Brishaspati's home dejected as he could not find his Guru. 

As soon as the asuras (demons) found out that the devatas did not have the counsel of Brihaspati, they received advice from their Guru Shukracharya to declare war on the devatas. They attacked the devatas and defeated them in battle. Dejected due to their loss, the devatas approached Lord Brahma for protection. 

With a gaze that pierced through the darkness of despair, Lord Brahma admonished Indra, the king of celestial gods, reminding him that it was his arrogance and disrespect towards Guru Brihaspati that had allowed the asuras to seize heaven. 

Brahma said to Indra, "Seek out Vishvaroop, he is the son of Sage Tvasht, wise and powerful. He is fit to be your Guru and will lead you back to glory." 

With renewed hope, the devatas understood that their path to redemption lay ahead. They ventured forth, determined to reclaim their honour and heaven. 

To be continued............

Summary

Indra, the king of the celestial beings, was enjoying a musical performance when he failed to properly greet his Guru, Brihaspati. This act of disrespect angered Brihaspati, who then vanished from sight. Realizing his error, Indra sought his Guru's forgiveness, but Brihaspati remained elusive. Taking advantage of the devatas' lack of guidance, the asuras attacked and defeated them. Lord Brahma then informed Indra that his arrogance led to this downfall and advised him to seek Vishvaroop as his new Guru to regain their heavenly kingdom.

Let's Reflect

Have you ever experienced disappointment? What impact did it have on you?

What are the consequences when pride and arrogance take over you, which leads you to disrespect your elders, parents and teachers?