Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 21
Brahmā Worships Vāmana; the Demons Attack; Bali is Bound and Questioned About the Third Step
यो नो भवाय प्रागासीदभवाय दिवौकसाम् । स एव भगवानद्य वर्तते तद्विपर्ययम् ॥ २१ ॥
yo no bhavāya prāg āsīd abhavāya divaukasām sa eva bhagavān adya vartate tad-viparyayam
The supreme time factor, which represents the Supreme Person, was previously in our favor and not in favor of the demigods, but now that same time factor is against us.
FAQs
This verse shows that the same Bhagavan may appear to reverse His favor, yet His actions are purposeful and transcend ordinary partiality; devotees learn to trust the Lord’s higher plan.
In the nectar episode, the demons perceive that the Lord, who previously benefited them while harming the demigods, is now acting in a way that seems to benefit the demigods instead—hence they remark on the reversal.
When outcomes suddenly reverse—loss after gain, obstacles after progress—this verse encourages steadiness: don’t judge the Divine by immediate results; keep integrity and devotion while seeking the deeper lesson.