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[Third Chapter]
[41 Devaki's Desire for a Son]
. 13 - Then, in the heart of Devaki Devi, this thought, contemplation, and desire-filled mental resolve arose - "Alas! I have given birth to seven sons, all of them equal in form, like Nalakubara, yet I have not experienced the joy of even one's childhood. Even you, Krishna Vasudeva, come to me for obeisance after six months. Therefore, I consider those mothers blessed, whose sons, born from their own wombs, are greedy for breast milk, speak sweet words, babble with their lisping tongues, and whose breasts are filled with the milk that flows to their chests, and who, holding those charming children in their lotus-like, soft hands, place them in their laps and speak to them again and again with sweet and gentle words. I am surely unfortunate and devoid of merit, for I have not witnessed the childhood of even one of my sons." Thus, Devaki, with a heavy heart, placed her face in her palm (in a gesture of grief) and began to lament.
Discussion - This sutra presents a heart-wrenching depiction of the thoughts and feelings of Devaki Devi, who, despite being the mother of seven sons, is filled with sorrow at being deprived of their childhood joys.
Krishna's Solution to Devaki's Sorrow
14 - At that time, Krishna Vasudeva, adorned with all ornaments, [like those used in auspicious ceremonies, like the offering of oblations, and the auspicious reception of guests], came to Devaki Devi for obeisance. Then, Krishna Vasudeva saw Devaki Devi, and after seeing her, he took her feet in his hands. Having done so, he spoke to Devaki Devi as follows:
"Mother! You are filled with joy and happiness, [your mind is filled with bliss, you are experiencing the supreme joy, and your heart is overflowing with love for me], when you see me. Mother! Why are you filled with such sorrowful thoughts, [and why are you lamenting, with your face in your palm, and your mind filled with grief]?
Then, Devaki Devi spoke to Krishna Vasudeva as follows: "My son! I have given birth to seven sons, all of them equal in form, like Nalakubara, yet I have not experienced the joy of even one's childhood. Even you, my son, come to me for obeisance after six months. Therefore, I consider those mothers blessed..."
1. Sutra-5 of Chapter 3.
2. Sutra-12 of Chapter 3.