Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 22
Bali Liberated, Prahlāda Blessed, and Vāmana Accepted as Universal Protector
वेदानां सर्वदेवानां धर्मस्य यशस: श्रिय: । मङ्गलानां व्रतानां च कल्पं स्वर्गापवर्गयो: ॥ २२ ॥ उपेन्द्रं कल्पयांचक्रे पतिं सर्वविभूतये । तदा सर्वाणि भूतानि भृशं मुमुदिरे नृप ॥ २३ ॥
vedānāṁ sarva-devānāṁ dharmasya yaśasaḥ śriyaḥ maṅgalānāṁ vratānāṁ ca kalpaṁ svargāpavargayoḥ
O King Parīkṣit, Indra was considered the King of all the universe, but the demigods, headed by Lord Brahmā, wanted Upendra, Lord Vāmanadeva, as the protector of the Vedas, the principles of religion, fame, opulence, auspiciousness, vows, elevation to the higher planetary system, and liberation. Thus they accepted Upendra, Lord Vāmanadeva, as the supreme master of everything. This decision made all living entities extremely happy.
FAQs
This verse states that the Lord is the underlying ordinance and sustaining principle of both the Vedas and all the demigods—He is their foundation and ultimate controller.
Svarga refers to heavenly enjoyment, while apavarga refers to liberation (moksha). The verse teaches that the Lord governs and grants both outcomes.
It encourages aligning one’s vows, ethics, and spiritual study with devotion to the Supreme, recognizing Him as the source of true prosperity, auspiciousness, and ultimate freedom.