The birth of Lord Krishna, a central figure in Hindu religion, is celebrated with great reverence and is surrounded by numerous miraculous events. These events are primarily documented in ancient Hindu texts like the Bhagavata Purana, the Mahabharata, and the Harivamsa. Here are some of the most notable miracles associated with his birth:
Divine Prophecy:
- It was prophesied that the eighth child of Devaki and Vasudeva would be the cause of King Kamsa's downfall. This prophecy was delivered by a divine voice (Akashvani) during the wedding of Devaki and Vasudeva.
Imprisonment and Birth:
- Fearing the prophecy, Kamsa imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva and killed their first six children. The seventh child, Balarama, was miraculously transferred from Devaki's womb to that of Rohini, Vasudeva's other wife, thus sparing his life.
- When Devaki became pregnant with her eighth child, Krishna, the prison was heavily guarded, but Krishna's birth was accompanied by miraculous events.
Divine Birth:
- Krishna was born at midnight, under a prison cell, yet the circumstances were extraordinary. The prison guards fell into a deep sleep, and the chains binding Vasudeva were miraculously loosened.
The River Yamuna:
- Vasudeva was instructed to carry the newborn Krishna across the Yamuna River to the house of his friend Nanda in Gokul. As Vasudeva approached the river, it parted, allowing him to cross safely. It is also said that Adisesha, the serpent deity, provided shelter to Krishna by spreading his hoods over the baby during the journey.
Exchange of Babies:
- Upon reaching Gokul, Vasudeva placed Krishna beside Yashoda, Nanda’s wife, and took her newborn daughter back to the prison. This infant was none other than Yogamaya, the divine energy. When Kamsa attempted to kill this baby, she escaped his grasp and transformed into a goddess, warning him that his nemesis was already born.
Protection by Divine Powers:
- Several attempts were made by Kamsa to kill Krishna, but all were thwarted by divine interventions. For example, the demoness Putana who came to poison baby Krishna was herself killed by him.
Miraculous Growth and Childhood:
- Krishna’s childhood was filled with miracles, showcasing his divine nature. He performed numerous miracles such as lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains and subduing the serpent Kaliya who poisoned the Yamuna River.
These miracles highlight Krishna's divine origin and his mission to vanquish evil and establish righteousness (Dharma) on Earth. The stories surrounding his birth are integral to Hindu tradition and are celebrated annually during the festival of Janmashtami.