Story Summary
Discover the tale of Ambarisha and Durvasa. When a sage’s curse meets a king’s devotion, Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra reveals the power of humble surrender.
King Ambarisha was a devout ruler who dedicated his life and kingdom to the service of Lord Vishnu. He strictly observed the Ekadashi fast, which required him to break his fast during a specific window on the following day, Dwadashi. As Ambarisha prepared to conclude his fast, the powerful but short-tempered Sage Durvasa arrived. Ambarisha invited him to eat, but Durvasa insisted on first performing his rituals at the river. The auspicious time for breaking the fast was slipping away, and Durvasa did not return. On the advice of his priests, Ambarisha sipped a drop of water—enough to technically break the fast but not constitute a meal before his guest. When Durvasa returned and perceived this through his yogic powers, he flew into a rage. He tore a lock of hair from his head and created a terrifying demon to kill the King. Ambarisha remained calm and prayerful. Suddenly, Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra appeared, incinerating the demon and turning its divine fire toward Durvasa. The terrified sage fled across the universe, seeking refuge from Brahma and Shiva, who both refused to help against Vishnu's weapon. Finally, Durvasa reached Vishnu, who told him, 'I am a servant of my devotees. I cannot help you. Go to Ambarisha and seek his forgiveness.' The prideful sage fell at the King's feet. Ambarisha immediately prayed to the Chakra to spare Durvasa, demonstrating that a true devotee harbors no malice, even toward those who harm them.
The Moral
True devotion is characterized by humility and forgiveness, proving that God protects those who surrender their ego and react to anger with grace.
“I am completely under the control of My devotees. Indeed, I am not at all independent.”
Fun Fact
This story is found in the Ninth Canto of the Srimad Bhagavatam and highlights the concept of 'Bhakta-Paradheenata', meaning God is controlled by His devotees' love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Ambarisha and Durvasa?
The story teaches that humble devotion is superior to ascetic pride. It shows that God protects those who are truly surrendered to Him and that forgiveness is the hallmark of a true devotee.
Why did Durvasa get angry with Ambarisha?
Durvasa felt insulted because Ambarisha sipped water to break his fast before the sage had returned from his bath. He viewed this as a breach of hospitality and an act of disrespect toward a guest.
What is the Sudarshana Chakra?
It is the spinning, disc-like weapon of Lord Vishnu. In this story, it acts as a sentient protector of the King, pursuing Durvasa across the three worlds to punish his arrogance.
Why couldn't Lord Vishnu help Durvasa directly?
Vishnu explained that he is 'Bhakta-Paradheena,' or subservient to His devotees. Because Durvasa had offended a pure devotee like Ambarisha, only Ambarisha had the power to grant him mercy.
What is the significance of the Ekadashi fast in this story?
The fast sets the stage for the conflict, highlighting Ambarisha's discipline and the technical dilemma of following religious rules versus honoring a guest, which eventually tests the king's character.
How was Durvasa finally saved from the Sudarshana Chakra?
After being rejected by Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu, Durvasa returned to Ambarisha and begged for forgiveness. Ambarisha offered a prayer to the Chakra, asking it to subside for the sake of the sage.