
May 10, 2025
Acharyas and pandits were engaged in a deep debate on the question of God's most eye-catching and beautiful avatar. Tirumazhisai Piran, the fourth among Azhwars, gave the verdict as 'Azhagiyaan Thaane Ari Uruvan Thaane', naming Nrisimha avatar as the most beautiful one. While the evil-minded and those with asura tendencies may cite the avatar as ferocious, to the true devotee, Nrisimha is his benevolent protector, said Tirukkudanthai Dr. Venkatesh.
An old adage says , 'There is no tomorrow for Nrisimha'. This is because He comes rushing to protect His devotee who believes in Him and appeals to Him. Nrisimha is mercy personified. He took form as half-man, half-lion as a way of outsmarting the asura Hiranyakasipu, who, through severe penance, received a boon from Brahma whereby he could not be killed by man or woman or beast, at morning or night, inside the house or outside, neither on earth nor in the sky, with any weapon. Bloated with ego, he instructed all to worship him as the supreme being and forbid his subjects from praying to any God and vedic rituals among others. Ironically, his son Prahlad was born with unshaking faith in Lord Narayana, thereby posing a challenge. When Hiranyakasipu sent him to a school for asuras, where he was hailed as God, Prahlad refused to countenance such thoughts and was soaked in true bhakti. A furious Hrianyakasipu ordered his son's death and taunted him saying, 'Where is your God now?' 'He is everywhere, even in the pillar here,' responded Prahlad at which the cruel king struck the pillar, as dusk fell. With a thundering noise Nrisimha emerged, dragged the asura to the threshold, put his body on his lap and tore him apart with nails (both living and non-living 'weapon'). Mahalakshmi appeared forthwith and His countenance became tranquil and beautiful, promising protection to His devotees.
One should observe Nrisimha Jayanti in the Vaishaka month of the lunar calendar (the 30 days between the new moon of Chittirai and the new moon of Vaikasi is called Vaishaka), under the star of Swati, during the twilight hour with offerings of flowers, sandalwood paste, tulasi and panagam (jaggery juice). Reading of or listening to Prahlad Charitra is highly efficacious on this day.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
How Nietzsche and God helped Israeli hostages survive in the tunnels of Gaza
More than a century ago, Friedrich Nietzsche famously declared that 'God is dead.' But in the fetid, pitch-dark tunnels beneath Gaza—where air was scarce, food scarce still, and the future nearly absent—God and Nietzsche coexisted. For dozens of Israeli hostages taken during Hamas's brutal October 7, 2023, attack, survival meant something more than physical endurance. Inside those underground cells, belief returned with unexpected force—sometimes in the form of sacred verses from the Book of Psalms, other times through the secular wisdom of Nietzsche's existential despair. What united them was the same core truth: the need for meaning, for something to hold onto when everything else—light, freedom, identity—was stripped away. Omer Shem Tov 's Psalm 20 and Nietzsche's 'Why' Omer Shem Tov, 20 at the time of his abduction, had been a secular Israeli, waiting tables and planning a post-army trip to South America. He was seized at the Nova music festival, along with friends, and quickly spirited into the Gaza tunnel network—lowered underground in a plastic tub. Days into his captivity, without access to clocks or sunlight, Shem Tov began to pray. He clung to Psalm 20—'May the Lord answer you on a day of distress'—a passage that, by eerie coincidence, his mother was reciting back home in Herzliya, unaware her son had adopted the same verse as his mantra. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Good News: You May Be Richer Than You Think Undo For him, faith didn't emerge as sudden revelation, but as necessity—a response to isolation, uncertainty, and fear. He began blessing his food, making promises to God, and vowed to don tefillin in prayer if he ever returned home. But if God gave him ritual, Nietzsche offered something else: a reason to endure. A saying frequently repeated among hostages was drawn from the German philosopher, popularised by Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl: 'He who has a why can bear with any how.' It had reportedly been spoken by Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American hostage, before he was executed by his captors. The phrase reverberated through the tunnels like scripture. One hostage later had it tattooed on his arm. The Rediscovery of Faith in Captivity Shem Tov wasn't alone in finding God in Gaza. Other hostages, like Eli Sharabi—who survived 491 days in captivity only to learn that his wife and two daughters had been killed—described saying the Shema Yisrael prayer each night and attempting to recite the kiddush over water when wine wasn't available. Ritual became resistance. For many, Jewish observance wasn't imposed by identity politics or external pressure—it was personal, a lifeline in the most dehumanising conditions imaginable. One hostage described saving a bottle of grape-flavoured drink for the Sabbath prayer. Others placed their hands on their heads in lieu of skullcaps. To the captors, it may have seemed like theatre. To the hostages, it was meaning. Nietzsche Underground And yet, alongside God, Nietzsche endured. Stripped of everything familiar, hostages turned to a philosopher who had buried God in the pages of The Gay Science but also taught generations that suffering could be endured if one had a reason. In the absence of hope, they made purpose. In the absence of time, they made ritual. Even Shem Tov's captors unwittingly played a role. After an Israeli military unit passed above ground, the gunmen handed Shem Tov reading material they had recovered—suspecting hidden codes. Among the texts: religious literature, and a printed card of Psalm 20. No names, no signatures. Just the verse. It mirrored the exact same card that had been handed to his mother months earlier by a hostage support group. The Fragility of Life, the Tenacity of Faith At one point, Shem Tov spent 50 days in a dark, suffocating tunnel cell. He was given a biscuit a day, a few drops of brackish water, and suffered asthma attacks that went nearly untreated. In desperation, he begged God to move him—anywhere else. Within minutes, his captors relocated him to a better chamber. Whether miracle or coincidence, he saw it as divine intervention. From there, he survived through quiet cooperation—cleaning, cooking, helping clear debris after tunnel collapses. He maintained the Sabbath. He saved a bottle of drink for a moment of blessing. He kept faith alive in a place designed to crush it. Now home, he prays daily with tefillin, just as he promised. He has toured Jewish communities in the US, speaking not only of suffering but of resilience. His mother, too, now observes the Sabbath. Theirs is not a tale of religious conversion, but of rediscovery—of how stripped of society's noise, ancient traditions and modern philosophy became tools of survival.


India Today
2 days ago
- India Today
Tarot Card Predictions June 10, 2025: Tarot Card Reading for All Zodiac Signs
Aries (Nine of Cups): Continuous success in your work has led to arrogance in your behaviour. As a result, you may not be treating others well, and your close friends, colleagues, and associates might distance themselves from you. At times, you become so excited with your happiness that you fail to acknowledge the sufferings of others. Try to change this behaviour. Soon, one of your big ambitions may come true. You have worked hard to achieve this ambition, and the rewarding result of that hard work is near. You haven't completed any task without the help of others, so it's important to share the joy and resources of this success with them. You may have many resources, but you might not have the desire to use them to help others. Regardless of the tough situations you've faced in the past, this behaviour is not good for (Judgement): The help you've provided to others in the past may bring the rewards of good deeds. The results of your good actions could bring success in all areas of life. You will accept this success with gratitude to God. You may feel the need to introduce new efforts and ideas into your life. It might seem necessary to change your work style for some tasks. Minor disputes could turn into major legal struggles, and the decision may go against you. Keep your thoughts in check and exercise control over your speech. Delays in tasks may increase restlessness, so working with patience and trying to complete tasks on time will prove beneficial for success. Don't let the upcoming changes overwhelm you; take advantage of the good opportunities that come your way. A change in behaviour is needed. It will be beneficial to distance yourself from any negative situations or people for the future. Focus on your work and include humility and flexibility in your interactions with (Temperance): Work done with patience and confidence will pave the way for success and victory ahead. You are trying to create balance in all areas of life. Instead of losing your temper in the face of challenges, work with patience and composure. Sometimes, ignoring something too much can be harmful. You may have gotten so caught up in trivial matters that you're overlooking important people or situations. A hasty decision could harm your business. If you're unable to find a solution to a problem, try seeking help from an experienced person to get out of it. Delay in completing tasks could lead to significant losses. If someone has ever helped you, don't refuse to help them when needed; they may really need your support right now. Offering help at the right time can make you feel good in the future. Cancer (Seven of Swords): A case that has been pending in court for a long time is likely to be decided soon. The opposing party may make every effort to turn the decision in their favor. In such a situation, be cautious and alert. Your opponents may try to influence the decision through unethical means. Before lending money to anyone, think carefully, especially if the amount is large; avoid transactions without proper documentation. Some of your colleagues may suggest solving a problem through improper means to overcome obstacles in your work. You should try to resolve these obstacles with your intelligence and discretion. A colleague at your workplace may attempt to provoke authorities against you. Stay cautious and try to understand the environment around you. Avoid sharing your future plans with others and refrain from giving unsolicited advice. You may receive news of a promotion along with a transfer at work. Embrace the challenges that come with the new (The Devil): Due to negative thoughts and bad company, you have been facing significant losses. Your wrong perceptions about close people and friends have distanced them from you. Negative thoughts can create obstacles in making right or wrong decisions. A colleague at work may feel envious of your success and might try to hinder your progress, which could lead to embarrassment in front of higher authorities. Due to the wrong intentions of someone, you might get scolded. In a romantic relationship, your partner may be maintaining the relationship for selfish reasons, which may soon manifest as their double standards, causing you emotional harm. A family member might try to manipulate you into agreeing to something by confusing you with words. Be careful and never give your consent to any document without reading it. If people are opposing you at work, continue your tasks fearlessly. Your competence will not allow the other party's negative intentions to succeed. Overcome your fears and never step back from any (Nine of Wands): An unexpected event has brought many troubles into your life. There are significant changes happening in your work environment as well. The arrival of new people could affect the atmosphere at work. Many people have high expectations of you, and you're feeling quite alone in trying to meet them. There is also a lot of confusion regarding your business. You might be planning to start a new business or have expressed a desire to form a partnership in an existing business with a friend. Now, you're waiting for their approval. There has been bitterness in a relationship for a long time, and despite your efforts, the other person is unwilling to compromise. You might distance yourself from this relationship now. Never lower your self-respect for someone else, as it could affect your self-esteem. You might be worried about your child, especially their company, which is causing differences between you (Seven of Swords): You need to be cautious in your work environment. If someone is being overly sweet with you, be careful, as such people can deceive you when the circumstances change. Trusting someone too much right now could harm you, so avoid over-trusting anyone. This time advises you to stay out of any disputes and not rush into any tasks. Complete your current work before starting something new. You should work with patience and composure, as you may face small challenges along the way. Your thinking is very good; try to bring some calm into your life. If a marriage proposal has come your way, make a decision only after careful thought and gathering information. If you're facing any dilemma regarding a situation, make an effort to find a (Knight of Pentacles): Some tasks are suddenly facing obstacles. These setbacks could be due to mistakes made in your work. Delays in completing tasks may require extra effort to seize good opportunities in the future. Right now, you are holding back and waiting for the upcoming good opportunities. Due to the lack of success in your work, there is an increased chance of financial loss. In business, a dispute with a partner may arise due to the ill intentions of a third party. Avoid sharing your future plans with too many people, as you might get betrayed by someone close to you. Don't let people take advantage of your goodness. The arrival of a new person in your work environment will bring positive momentum. If you're unable to solve a problem, seek advice from an experienced person to move forward. Due to your diplomatic skills, people are always ready to help (Seven of Wands): Due to hasty and careless decisions, your life has started to feel stagnant. You can seek the support of a close person to overcome this stagnation. You may marry your partner without anyone's consent. Because of this mistake, others have distanced themselves from you. In your work environment, everyone is struggling due to a difficult situation. Try to seek advice from an experienced person to get out of this situation. There will certainly be a way to bring back the momentum in your tasks. In this situation, you must remain firm in the face of challenges, as the challenges will give way if you stand your ground. Face all challenges with patience and composure. Doubting your work will undo all your efforts. Never allow yourself to weaken in any situation, or some of your competitors may overpower you. Remove any feeling of fear from your mind. This is also a time of internal struggle for you. Meeting people's expectations is becoming increasingly difficult. Don't get swayed by others' words; make your own (The Hanged Man): Life has become completely filled with chaos, and it seems there's no clear way out at the moment. You can try to organise the scattered tasks in an orderly manner. Your work isn't achieving the desired success. After a lot of thought, you will attempt to change your approach to work. With advice from an experienced person, you may make the necessary changes to your work style. You will feel a sense of new change in your life. Your perspective on thinking and understanding will shift. The opinions you have formed about people may not always be correct, and you will try to understand this. In business, implementing new technology could accelerate the process of improving your work. You will review past actions and related matters. You may try to understand and learn from your previous mistakes. You are planning to start a new venture with a solid plan, ensuring you understand all the necessary (Six of Pentacles): Your impartial behaviour towards everyone impresses people. Helping others by understanding their problems and finding solutions has become your habit. Choose to associate with good people. Try not to shy away from helping others when needed. Maintain a balance between income and expenses. Don't misuse your relationships with influential people. The time is favourable, and there may be a possibility of promotion or financial gain at work. Try to avoid disputes over money within the family. The necessary funds for a wedding or any family event will come in some form. While helping those in need, keep your emotions in check. When donating or helping, always consider your financial situation. You may form a marriage alliance with an influential family, which can strengthen your social and economic (Six of Cups): To reach success, you have faced so much humiliation and difficulties. These situations have given you courage and strength. By fighting against circumstances, you have achieved this victory. Your collaborators have contributed just as much to this success as you have. You may plan a grand celebration to acknowledge this victory. You want your family and colleagues to join in celebrating your achievement. Your financial situation has experienced a significant boost. You are trying to draw closer to God. You are striving to resolve the inner conflicts within you. There is sweetness and freshness in your romantic relationship. Life is progressing smoothly. You can create a distinct position for yourself in your work field with your hard work. You are trying to complete your tasks slowly and steadily. Rushing through tasks can be harmful to you. With patience and perseverance, the goal of reaching greater heights is now in sight. Make strong efforts with full dedication to achieve this, and you will definitely Watch


Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Daily Numerology Horoscope – June 9, 2025 - Daily Numerology Prediction - A day to Balance Emotions with Practical Insight
Daily Numerology Horoscope – June 9, 2025 : The cosmic atmosphere on June 9, 2025, mirrors the theme of the week — intense emotional energy balanced by grounded reflection. It's a day for embracing your vulnerability, choosing your responses carefully, and practicing emotional wisdom. The day unfolds like a mirror, reflecting what needs healing while simultaneously offering clarity. For each Birth Number, today brings a small but meaningful shift. Whatever that is, a reminder to step up your game, speak the truth, or withdraw to put things into perspective — your number has something that requires your attention. Let's find your own Daily Numerology Reading today: Number 1 (Born on 1st, 10th, 19th, 28th) You wake up with a spark in your mind — the urge to get things done, be seen, and get it done. Keep that urge in abeyance for the time being. Today requires that you hone your focus before attempting any big action. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If You Eat Ginger Everyday for 1 Month This is What Happens Tips and Tricks Undo Conversations with colleagues are among the causes for tension when you're attempting to lead without listening. Use Mercury thinking — talk clearly but don't dominate. Money, restrain before spending or committing. You'll be eager to shop to let out your inner tension — don't. Nature walking or journaling will be more effective. By nightfall, things clear up — your "next step" will whisper itself. Lucky Number: 4 Live Events Lucky Colour: Sky Blue Power Tip: Say less, observe more — the right idea will rise. Number 2 (Born on 2nd, 11th, 20th, 29th) You're extra sensitive today. Your radar is turned on, tuning in to other people's energy that might get mixed with your own emotional demands. Protect your energy, a reminder is needed. Workplace politics can be emotionally draining. Don't take in each word or tone — it's not always about you. Rather, trust your instincts to guide responses over ego. Evening words and hugs with a loved one can mend. Financially, Today is a great day to re-evaluate hidden fees or subscription services. See where your emotional budgeting is taking your peace. Lucky Number: 28 Lucky Colour: Pearl White Power Tip: Emotional maturity is your greatest power — remain grounded. Number 3 (Born on 3rd, 12th, 21st, 30th) You're a summons to guide with delicacy, not brashness. Others will seek your guidance, comfort, or just to soak up your energy — give them peace, not solutions. Do not let yourself get caught up in the emotional trash of others. Hold your ground without compromising your integrity. It's a day of maximum creativity — write, paint, or express. You'll receive God-inspired wisdom through creativity. Finances: control yourself. A small luxury product will attempt to entice you — question: "Is it need or image?" By nightfall, your personal sense of clarity grows stronger. Choose silence rather than noise. Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Colour: Gold Power Tip: Your peaceful presence is medicine — for others and you. Number 4 (Born on 4th, 13th, 22nd, 31st) Today invites you to loosen the reins a little. You've been overthinking, over-planning, and perhaps over-controlling life. Now, let some divine messiness — it may carry a hidden blessing. In the workplace, delays will get on your nerves — don't push. Patience will yield better strategies than speed. Emotionally, repressed feelings can deeply accumulate. Discussing through with a pal will bring relief. Cognition at noon into behaviors that need purifying — perhaps sleep, diet, or cluttered space. Have faith in the small reboot. It leads to monumental change. Lucky Number: 15 Lucky Colour: Dusty Rose Power Tip: Today's progress is gauged in quietness, not speed. Number 5 (Born on 5th, 14th, 23rd) Your charm is radiating — use it wisely. You will draw attention today, particularly in the workplace or social media. But don't allow other people's adoration cloud your judgment from healing within. A domestic or family concern will arise in the middle of the day. Handle it with flair, not chill. Your honesty is your strength. If passions are running high in love or friendships, listen with your heart. Refrain from instant reactions. Money-wise, refrain from instant buys or loans. Reality-check your emotional outlays. By evening, reward yourself with some isolation. Isolation will restore on track what's important. Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Colour: Champagne Power Tip: Meet head-on the inner world — that is where the hard work starts. Number 6 (Born on 6th, 15th, 24th) The Universe is rearranging something for your betterment — even if it feels like a delay today. Let go of the urge to push, fix, or solve. At work, a project may not go as planned. Instead of forcing outcomes, allow organic developments. Emotionally, be discerning about the people around you. Energy vampires could drain you. Invest in connections that feel mutual. Health-wise, hydration and sleep are key today. Emotional stress may show up physically — be gentle with yourself. Evening introspection may bring divine insights. Write them down. Lucky Number: 13 Lucky Colour: Burgundy Power Tip: Delay is not denial — it's divine alignment in motion. Number 7 (Born on 7th, 16th, 25th) Today's silence holds answers. You're being called into spiritual solitude, not loneliness. Don't pack your day too full. One real, good conversation or creative one is worth ten. An emotional flashback can occur — old love, old wound, or old dream. Don't fight. Feel and release. Money-wise, it's time to let go of old money beliefs. Shift from scarcity to awareness. Emotional clarity comes at night. Listen to your gut. Lucky Number: 18 Lucky Colour: Indigo Power Tip: When everything outside is noisy, listen more to your inner voice. Number 8 (Born on 8th, 17th, 26th) You're getting into high gear at last. When stress or holds have been your bugbear, today clears the haze. Watch for increased clarity of mind — perfect for pitches, presentations, and master plans. A sage or wise guide can help you perceive a problem with heightened acumen. Hear advice humbly. In relationships, speak out your truth, even if it is uncomfortable. Your heart will feel lighter. Financially, stay practical. A tempting offer may come — only say yes if it fits your long-term vision. Lucky Number: 5 Lucky Colour: Slate Grey Power Tip: Follow through. Consistency wins over intensity today. Number 9 (Born on 9th, 18th, 27th) A transformation is quietly underway. Today, you are more expressive and intuitive. It is a good day to begin a conversation on a collaborative project. Creative energies are flowing. Spiritually, signs are everywhere — recurring numbers, dreams, or overheard conversations may offer clues. Don't dismiss them. Financially, avoid large investments today. Be mindful of emotional decisions. Evening is a sacred window for reflection. Don't overschedule it. Sit in silence — your answers are arriving. Lucky Number: 33 Lucky Colour: Electric Blue Power Tip: The loudest whisper is when your heart is quiet. ____________________________________________________________________________ This numerology horoscope has been curated by expert numerologists at . For feedback, please write to hello@