Shloka 33
Brahmā Worships Vāmana; the Demons Attack; Bali is Bound and Questioned About the Third Step
वृथा मनोरथस्तस्य दूर: स्वर्ग: पतत्यध: । प्रतिश्रुतस्यादानेन योऽर्थिनं विप्रलम्भते ॥ ३३ ॥
vṛthā manorathas tasya dūraḥ svargaḥ pataty adhaḥ pratiśrutasyādānena yo ’rthinaṁ vipralambhate
जो व्यक्ति याचक को वचन देकर भी उसे न देता और छलता है, वह न स्वर्ग को पाता है, न इच्छा पूर्ण करता; उलटे वह नीचे गिरकर नरकीय दशा को प्राप्त होता है।
FAQs
This verse says that one who promises and then withholds what was pledged—especially from a needy petitioner—loses auspicious destiny (svarga becomes distant) and suffers a fall due to sinful deception.
Because exploiting someone’s need violates dharma and compassion; the verse highlights that such deceit turns one’s hopes futile and brings spiritual and moral degradation.
Do not make commitments lightly; if you promise help, follow through promptly. Integrity in giving, contracts, and personal assurances is a direct practice of dharma and supports steady spiritual progress.