Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 2
Vāmanadeva Praises Bali; the Measure of Three Steps; Śukrācārya Warns Against the Gift
श्रीभगवानुवाच वचस्तवैतज्जनदेव सूनृतं कुलोचितं धर्मयुतं यशस्करम् । यस्य प्रमाणं भृगव: साम्पराये पितामह: कुलवृद्ध: प्रशान्त: ॥ २ ॥
śrī-bhagavān uvāca vacas tavaitaj jana-deva sūnṛtaṁ kulocitaṁ dharma-yutaṁ yaśas-karam yasya pramāṇaṁ bhṛgavaḥ sāmparāye pitāmahaḥ kula-vṛddhaḥ praśāntaḥ
至上主说道：国王啊，你的话语真实柔和，合乎家族礼法，契合正法，并能增益你的名声。其凭证是婆利古后裔的婆罗门；而指引你来世之道的导师，是你那安宁尊长的祖父——普罗诃罗陀大王。
Prahlāda Mahārāja is a vivid example of a pure devotee. Someone might argue that since Prahlāda Mahārāja, even though very old, was attached to his family, and specifically to his grandson Bali Mahārāja, how could he be an ideal example? Therefore this verse uses the word praśāntaḥ. A devotee is always sober. He is never disturbed by any conditions. Even if a devotee remains in gṛhastha life and does not renounce material possessions, he should still be understood to be praśānta, sober, because of his pure devotion to the Lord. Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu therefore said:
FAQs
This verse praises speech that is truthful, gentle, aligned with dharma, and fitting for a noble character—such words naturally bring lasting honor.
Because Prahlāda is the family’s revered elder and a recognized spiritual authority; the Lord points to him as the standard of conduct for Bali’s decision and reputation.
Speak in a way that is truthful, respectful, and principled—let your words reflect integrity and responsibility, not just convenience or impulse.