Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 28
Bali Mahārāja’s Surrender, Prahlāda’s Praise, and the Lord’s Mercy
Sutala and Future Indrahood
एष दानवदैत्यानामग्रणी: कीर्तिवर्धन: । अजैषीदजयां मायां सीदन्नपि न मुह्यति ॥ २८ ॥
eṣa dānava-daityānām agranīḥ kīrti-vardhanaḥ ajaiṣīd ajayāṁ māyāṁ sīdann api na muhyati
Bali Mahārāja menjadi yang paling masyhur antara dānava dan daitya; walaupun kehilangan segala kemewahan duniawi, baginda menewaskan māyā yang sukar ditundukkan dan tetap teguh dalam bhakti.
In this verse, the words sīdann api na muhyati are very important. A devotee is sometimes put into adversity while executing devotional service. In adversity, everyone laments and becomes aggrieved, but by the grace of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, a devotee, even in the worst condition, can understand that he is going through a severe examination by the Personality of Godhead. Bali Mahārāja passed all such examinations, as explained in the following verses.
FAQs
This verse highlights steadfastness: even when faced with seemingly unconquerable illusion, one who is strong-willed and clear-minded does not become bewildered.
Śukadeva Gosvāmī speaks this verse while narrating the conflict between the demigods and the demons in Canto 8.
When pressure or setbacks arise, avoid panic and confusion; remain steady, assess reality clearly, and act with discipline instead of reacting emotionally.