Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.20.3
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyPerfection Through Practice and Mercy
“I am the grandson of Mahārāja Prahlāda. How can I withdraw my promise because of greed for money when I have already said that I shall give this land? How can I behave like an ordinary cheater, especially toward a brāhmaṇa?”
What the purport teaches
- Bali Mahārāja refused to withdraw his promise out of greed for money. Blessed by Prahlāda Mahārāja, he was a pure devotee despite being born in a family of demons.
- A sādhana-siddha attains perfection through regular devotional service under the spiritual master's direction. A kṛpā-siddha attains perfection through the special mercy of guru and Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
- Bali Mahārāja received the highest perfection of devotional service by special mercy. His unalloyed love led him to offer Vāmanadeva whatever He asked.
Try this today
Complete one regular act of devotional service today with gratitude for the mercy that supports your progress.
Ask yourself
How can I remain steady in devotional practice while appreciating the mercy of guru and Kṛṣṇa?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.