Narada is so famous as a mischief-maker and a quarrel-monger that in India, a mischievous person who always delights in backbiting and indulges in spreading rumors is symbolically chided as ‘Narada’.
Narada’s Mischievous Deeds
Narada had the habit of disclosing to both gods and demons the secrets about each other. Gods and demons eventually detested each other. Narada’s deeds often created trouble and friction among gods, demons, and men, and such friction often led to a war in the end. Hence Narada, being a notorious mischief-maker, acquired the name Kalaha-Priya, or the lover of quarrels.
Questioning Narada’s Saintliness
How can we call such a person a saint? Was it right that he set people against one another by spreading gossip? But we must remember that Narada’s intention was to espouse a good cause. It was his constant desire that bad people should be punished for their deeds, that the haughty ones should learn their lesson soon, and that the good should live happily ever after.
Narada’s Divine Play
Chanting “Narayana, Narayana,” the divine sage Narada went across the three worlds spreading rumors and causing rifts. In Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s Abode), he would regale the Lord with his merry tales.
“I described Ahilya’s beauty to Indra until he began lusting for that married woman…Daksha hates Shiva after I reported how Shiva ridicules him…I made Shreedevi jealous of Bhoodevi…I put the fear of death in Kansa’s mind…I praised the pompous Ravana into believing that he was greater than all Gods…”
Vishnu’s Inquiry
“Why do you do this, Narada?” asked Vishnu.
“Do What?”
“Cause so much trouble”
Narada’s Justification
“I don’t do anything. I merely test their faith in you. If they were your true devotees, would any of them be lustful, wrathful, greedy, envious, frightened, or proud?”
Vishnu’s Approval
Vishnu burst out laughing and blessed his dearest devotee Narada, who kept chanting, “Narayana, Narayana”.
Conclusion
This narrative highlights Narada’s unique role in the cosmic play. While his actions seem mischievous, they serve a higher purpose of testing and ultimately strengthening the devotion of gods, demons, and humans alike. His seemingly troublesome deeds are actually catalysts for spiritual growth and moral lessons, reaffirming his status as a revered sage and a beloved devotee of Lord Vishnu.
