Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 10
Vṛtrāsura Instructs Indra on Providence and Devotion; The Slaying of Vṛtrāsura
यथा दारुमयी नारी यथा पत्रमयो मृग: । एवं भूतानि मघवन्नीशतन्त्राणि विद्धि भो: ॥ १० ॥
yathā dārumayī nārī yathā patramayo mṛgaḥ evaṁ bhūtāni maghavann īśa-tantrāṇi viddhi bhoḥ
おおマガヴァン（インドラ王）よ。木で作られた女の人形や、草葉で作られた獣が自ら動いたり踊ったりできず、操る者に全て依存するように、我らも至上の統御者バガヴァーンの御意のままに踊る。独立の者は一人もいない。
This is confirmed in Caitanya-caritāmṛta ( Ādi 5.142) :
FAQs
This verse states that beings function like puppets—like a wooden doll or a leaf-deer—acting under the Lord’s direction (īśa-tantra), emphasizing God’s ultimate sovereignty.
In the midst of battle, Vṛtrāsura instructs Indra to see beyond ego and blame, reminding him that outcomes and actions unfold under the Supreme Lord’s governance, not merely personal power.
Do your duty sincerely, but release pride and anxiety over results—recognize a higher order at work, and cultivate humility, accountability, and devotion while acting responsibly.