The Marriage of Kardama and Devahuti
Maitreya narrated how Devahuti, though born a princess, embraced a life of simplicity to serve Kardama. She rendered menial services—cleaning, cooking, gathering fruits and roots—until her body became thin and her garments soiled. Despite hardship, she remained joyful, knowing she served a great devotee. Her example illustrated that loving service, not external comfort, defines true happiness for one seeking spiritual advancement.
Seeing Devahuti’s unwavering dedication, Kardama felt deep compassion and appreciation. He told her that her service had pleased him and that he would now fulfill her desires for family life without compromising spiritual goals. By his mystic power, he manifested an aerial palace of astonishing opulence, complete with jeweled chambers, celestial gardens, and attendants. This transformation demonstrated that yogic resources can be used to support dharma and devotion, not merely to impress or indulge.
The couple traveled the world in this aerial mansion, enjoying scenic wonders while remaining spiritually focused. Their experiences were not for sense gratification alone; Kardama ensured that their enjoyment was balanced with remembrance of the Lord. Devahuti’s faith and Kardama’s guidance harmonized material prosperity with spiritual intent, showing that opulence can be sanctified when it facilitates devotion.
In time, Devahuti gave birth to nine daughters, each endowed with beauty and virtue. These daughters would marry great sages and help populate the world with spiritually minded progeny, fulfilling Manu’s hope. Kardama informed Devahuti that soon the Lord would personally appear as their son, promising her the highest blessing for her steadfast service.
The chapter highlights the reciprocity between husband and wife when both aim to please the Lord. Devahuti’s austerity elicited Kardama’s care and spiritual support; Kardama’s mystic provision honored Devahuti’s service and aligned their household with divine purpose. Their partnership modeled how mutual respect and devotion to the Lord transform marriage into a path of liberation.
Vidura heard that Kardama, having fulfilled his duty to provide and to beget saintly children, would soon renounce household life, entrusting Devahuti to the protection of their impending divine son. This set the stage for the appearance of Kapila, whose teachings would illuminate the path of devotional analysis.