Devahuti and Kardama Muni

Chapter 21, 22

Vidura enquired about the dynasty of Svayambhuva Manu, whose progeny multiplied and expanded the entities within the universe. Svayambhuva Manu had two sons (Priyavrata and Uttanapada) and three daughters (Akuti, Devahuti, Prasuti). Maitreya Rishi began by describing the life of Devahuti.

When Kardama Muni was ordered by Brahma to beget children, he performed 10,000 years of penance, preparing himself for successful execution of this important task, which would begin with finding a suitable wife. Pleased by the sage’s endeavours, the Lord confirmed that Svayambhuva Manu and Satarupa would offer their daughter, Devahuti, in marriage. Kardama Muni and Devahuti would then have nine daughters, after which the Lord would personally appear as her son and impart jewel-like instructions in devotional service.

The events began to transpire as predicted. When Svayambhuva Manu and his wife reached his hermitage, Kardama heartily welcomed them. They expressed great respect and appreciation for each other, demonstrating the respectful dealings and appreciation amongst civilised society. Svayambhuva Manu described his daughter’s attraction to the sage and offered her hand in marriage. Kardama Muni glorified Devahuti’s good qualities and agreed to the marriage proposal on the condition that after bearing a child in her womb, he be permitted to renounce family life. The settlement was made, and the marriage thus took place.