The Story of Krishna Eating Mud in English for Kids

Yashoda is Krishna's foster mother and Nanda's wife. Krishna was born to Devaki, according to the Bhagawat (Krishna’s biography). Devaki’s brother was Kamsa, the tyrannical king of Mathura. He took a vow to kill all of Devaki’s children. So, to protect Krishna, his father Vasudeva, brought the newborn Krishna to his cousin Nanda and his wife, Yashoda, in Gokulam. This is the story of when Yashoda found out that Krishna was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Summary of the Story of Krishna Eating Mud in English

Krishna was a mischievous child. He loved butter and would frequently steal milk and butter from other people's homes, and the women would come to Yashoda to complain about her son's misbehaviour.

One day, the older children, including His brother Balarama, ran out to eat the fruits of a tree growing in the courtyard. Krishna adored those fruits, so He followed them despite the fact that no one had invited him. He was warned that he was too small to climb trees. He persisted in following them, so they assigned him the task of collecting the falling fruits. "Now, keep in mind, don't eat a single one," they warned, knowing his appetite. "All you have to do is gather the fruits, and we'll come and fairly distribute them."

But little Krishna secretly ate the muddy fruits. His friends went and informed Yashoda. When Krishna returned home, Yashoda grabbed him by the ears and chastised him for putting dirt in his mouth. Krishna immediately responded that he had a fight with his friends in the morning and that in order to exact revenge, they were all lying and that Yashoda should not believe them. He claimed she was being unjust because she trusted them instead of her son.

Yashoda was all too familiar with her son. Yashoda started scolding Krishna. She said, "If you haven't already done so, open your mouth. I'll find out for myself." Krishna obeyed by opening his mouth. But when Yashoda looked into his mouth, she was astounded. In his small mouth, she saw the entire universe: mountain ranges, deep oceans, solar systems, air, fire, moons, and celestial objects. Yashoda was taken aback and began to wonder if she was dreaming or seeing something extraordinary.

Picture of Baby Krishna with Mother Yashoda

Philosophy: Interpretation of the Universe form the story of Krishna Eating Mud

Humans are the universe presenting as solitary beings.  Our reality is a reality of our perception. It is what the observer beholds, and his point of view. This philosophy is indicated through the universe inside Krishna's mouth, and has been observed across cultures. The Shakespearean character Hamlet saw the universe in a single glance; another renowned poet William Blake saw the world in a grain of sand, heaven in a wild flower, and eternity in an hour.

Note to Parents 

It is important that children get a preliminary introduction to philosophy. It allows them to find peace and meaning in their own lives going forward. Mythology is a fantastic way to start for children, as the rules of the universe may be amended in the same. Further, it is an entertaining way of encouraging children to be more curious. Parents are advised to take the time out to answer deeper questions regarding religion or the universe to their children, to improve their holistic education.

Conclusion

The universe, in all his majesty, was right in front of her eyes. It was little Krishna, Vishnu's incarnation, showing the universe in his mouth. However, Krishna knew that Yashoda would not be able to treat him like a son after knowing he was a god. So, she collapsed to the ground, unconscious, and forgot the whole incident. When she woke up, Yashoda sat the little boy on her lap, hugged him, and cried joyfully.