In Hindu scriptures, the story of Mohini Avatar and the Rishis of Darukavana is a fascinating tale that illustrates the themes of divine play (leela) and the testing of spiritual discipline. Here's a more detailed account:
The Setting
In the dense and sacred Darukavana (Daruka Forest), there resided a group of highly esteemed sages, or rishis. These rishis were deeply engrossed in their ascetic practices, rituals, and Vedic studies. Their primary focus was on spiritual advancement and strict adherence to celibacy (brahmacharya). The forest itself was a tranquil place, filled with the sounds of chanting and the fragrance of sacred fires.
The Challenge
The rishis in Darukavana were renowned for their chastity and self-control. However, Bhagavan Vishnu, aware of the subtle pride they took in their spiritual achievements, decided to test their discipline and humility. He assumed the form of Mohini, an enchantingly beautiful woman, who had previously played a pivotal role during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) by distracting the demons and distributing the nectar of immortality to the gods.
Mohini's Arrival
One day, as the rishis were performing their daily rituals, Mohini appeared in the forest. Her beauty was otherworldly, radiating a charm that captivated anyone who laid eyes on her. As she walked through Darukavana, the very atmosphere seemed to come alive with a mesmerizing allure. The rishis, who were usually indifferent to worldly attractions, found themselves inexplicably drawn towards her.
The Reaction of the Rishis
Despite their rigorous self-control and ascetic vows, the rishis' minds began to waver. They felt a strong, almost irresistible pull towards Mohini. Some rishis tried to resist and continue with their rituals, but their concentration was broken. Others followed Mohini, trying to win her attention and favor. The entire community of sages was in disarray, their disciplined lifestyle upended by her presence.
The Intervention
Seeing the disturbance caused among the rishis, the consorts of the rishis – who were also engaged in spiritual practices and maintaining the sanctity of the forest – decided to pray to Lord Shiva for help. Lord Shiva, known for his role as the destroyer of illusion and protector of ascetics, appeared in response to their sincere prayers.
Shiva's Role
Lord Shiva approached Mohini, aware of her true identity as Vishnu's avatar. Shiva, who himself had once been enchanted by Mohini during the distribution of the nectar, understood the divine play at work. He smiled at Mohini, acknowledging the purpose behind Vishnu's test.
The Revelation
As the rishis gathered around, captivated by Mohini, Lord Shiva addressed them. He revealed Mohini’s true identity as none other than Lord Vishnu, who had taken this form to test their resolve and to remind them of the importance of humility and vigilance in spiritual practice. The rishis, realizing their lapse in discipline and the pride they had unknowingly harbored, felt deeply ashamed and humbled.
The Lesson
Vishnu, returning to his true form, spoke to the rishis, advising them that no matter how advanced one becomes in spiritual practice, it is crucial to remain humble and aware of the ever-present potential for distraction. He emphasized that true spirituality involves not only external discipline but also internal purity and humility.
The Aftermath
The rishis, having learned a profound lesson, redoubled their efforts in their spiritual practices with renewed humility and devotion. They continued to live in Darukavana, but with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the mind and the need for constant vigilance.
The story of Mohini Avatar and the Rishis of Darukavana thus serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility, self-awareness, and the ever-present potential for illusion (maya) even in the lives of the most dedicated ascetics. It highlights the compassionate nature of the divine, which tests devotees not to punish, but to guide them towards greater spiritual maturity and wisdom.