Srimad Bhagavatam — Ashtama Skandha, Shloka 1
Bali Mahārāja’s Surrender, Prahlāda’s Praise, and the Lord’s Mercy
Sutala and Future Indrahood
श्रीशुक उवाच एवं विप्रकृतो राजन् बलिर्भगवतासुर: । भिद्यमानोऽप्यभिन्नात्मा प्रत्याहाविक्लवं वच: ॥ १ ॥
śrī-śuka uvāca evaṁ viprakṛto rājan balir bhagavatāsuraḥ bhidyamāno ’py abhinnātmā pratyāhāviklavaṁ vacaḥ
圣者舒迦提婆·高斯瓦弥说道：大王啊，尽管至上人格神表面上似乎对巴利·摩诃罗阇有所戏弄，巴利却意志坚定。自认誓言未尽，他镇定地说道如下。
FAQs
This verse highlights that a genuine devotee remains steady and fearless even when mistreated or opposed, keeping an unbroken mind focused on the Lord.
Because Bali was born in an asura lineage, yet his conduct and inner commitment were centered on Bhagavān, showing that devotion is defined by surrender and character, not birth.
When criticized or treated unfairly, respond calmly and truthfully without panic—protecting integrity and spiritual priorities rather than reacting from ego or fear.