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
Ang sinumang nangako sa namamalimos ngunit hindi nagbigay at nanlinlang, ay malayo sa langit; walang saysay ang kanyang mga hangarin; at siya’y bumabagsak sa kalagayang impiyerno.
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.