Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 32
Bali Mahārāja’s Empowerment and Conquest of Indra’s City
Prelude to Vāmana’s Petition
एवं सुमन्त्रितार्थास्ते गुरुणार्थानुदर्शिना । हित्वा त्रिविष्टपं जग्मुर्गीर्वाणा: कामरूपिण: ॥ ३२ ॥
evaṁ sumantritārthās te guruṇārthānudarśinā hitvā tri-viṣṭapaṁ jagmur gīrvāṇāḥ kāma-rūpiṇaḥ
وتابع شُكاديفا غوسوامي: لما وعظهم المعلّم بْرِهَسْپَتي لمصلحتهم، قبلت الآلهة كلماته في الحال. فاتخذوا هيئاتٍ كما يشاؤون، وتركوا المملكة السماوية وتفرّقوا دون أن يراهم الأسورا.
The word kāma-rūpiṇaḥ indicates that the demigods, the inhabitants of the heavenly planets, can assume any form they desire. Thus it was not at all difficult for them to remain incognito before the eyes of the demons.
FAQs
This verse shows the devas acting decisively after receiving clear, beneficial instruction from their guru—highlighting that success in dharmic endeavors comes by accepting expert spiritual counsel.
After being properly advised by Bṛhaspati on what would be truly advantageous, they left the heavenly realm to proceed with the next steps connected to the upcoming churning of the ocean.
Seek guidance from qualified mentors, accept instruction that points to long-term good (artha/hita), and then act without delay—rather than remaining attached to comfort or status.