Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 8
Bali Mahārāja’s Empowerment and Conquest of Indra’s City
Prelude to Vāmana’s Petition
अथारुह्य रथं दिव्यं भृगुदत्तं महारथ: । सुस्रग्धरोऽथ सन्नह्य धन्वी खड्गी धृतेषुधि: ॥ ८ ॥ हेमाङ्गदलसब्दाहु: स्फुरन्मकरकुण्डल: । रराज रथमारूढो धिष्ण्यस्थ इव हव्यवाट् ॥ ९ ॥
athāruhya rathaṁ divyaṁ bhṛgu-dattaṁ mahārathaḥ susrag-dharo ’tha sannahya dhanvī khaḍgī dhṛteṣudhiḥ
Pagkaraan, sumakay si Mahārāja Bali—ang dakilang mandirigma—sa makalangit na karwaheng ibinigay ni Śukrācārya ng angkan ni Bhṛgu. Nakasuot siya ng magandang kuwintas na bulaklak, nakabaluti, may hawak na busog, may tabak, at may sisidlan ng mga palaso. Sa mga bisig na may gintong pulseras at mga taingang may kumikislap na makara-kundal, nang maupo siya sa luklukan ng karwahe ay nagningning siyang tulad ng sinasambang apoy sa dambana ng yajña.
FAQs
This verse shows a righteous warrior preparing with divine resources—celestial chariot, bow, sword, and arrows—indicating that higher protection and strength come by divine sanction, not mere pride.
Bhṛgu’s gift signifies the support of great sages for the cause of dharma; the devas’ strength is reinforced through blessings and sacred authority during the devasura conflict.
Before entering any difficult struggle, prepare properly—externally with tools and discipline, and internally by seeking guidance and blessings from wise, dharmic sources.