For those who are ruled by desire, the world itself becomes their master, leading them into bondage. When pride is shattered by the relentless force of desire, poverty inevitably follows, leaving one destitute. Who, indeed, can rescue those who have fallen into the jaws of utter destitution, like a great crocodile? Among such people, the abundance of sons and wives—what most would call prosperity—brings the greatest misery. In the midst of these reflections, Bhadramati, wise and virtuous, contemplated another act of righteousness that could bestow prosperity. He understood that one who consents to giving a gift is, in truth, the same soul who performed such an act in a previous life. Among all gifts, the gift of land is proclaimed as the highest. Resolute in his purpose, Bhadramati approached Sughoṣa, the foremost of Brāhmaṇas, who was blessed with prosperity and devoted to righteousness. Upon seeing Bhadramati, Sughoṣa said, “O Bhadramati, my purpose is fulfilled; my birth has become fruitful.” After honoring him, Sughoṣa, intent on righteousness, recited, “The earth is sacred, belonging to Viṣṇu; the earth is protected by Viṣṇu,” and with this mantra, gave the excellent Brāhmaṇa the gift. Bhadramati requested the earth from Sughoṣa, and by giving land, Sughoṣa was joined by a lineage of millions. Bhadramati thus obtained the prosperity he had desired. In this way, he dwelled in the abode of Brahmā for tens of millions of ages, and afterwards, upon returning to earth, was endowed with all prosperity. Then, free from desire and devoted to Viṣṇu, Bhadramati received from Viṣṇu, whose heart was gracious, supreme and true prosperity. Therefore, O lord of the Daityas, I too, devoted to all righteousness, sought such blessings. At this time, Vairocani saw a jar filled with water. Viṣṇu, all-pervading and wise, perceived this jar as an obstacle to the flow of water. At the tip of the darbha grass, a great weapon appeared, shining like ten million suns. Viṣṇu approached, seen by Bhargava, the gods, the asuras, and many others. Bali then gave to the great Viṣṇu the earth, measured by three steps. Hari, whose form is the very universe, measured the earth with two steps, and with the tip of his big toe, split the cosmic egg into two. The water washed by Viṣṇu’s foot became pure, cleansing the worlds. This most excellent and pure water purified the gods, beginning with Brahma, and attended by true sages, it fell upon the summit of Meru. The sages and Manus, overcome with joy, praised Viṣṇu: “Homage to you, whose soul is Brahman, whose mind delights in Brahman, whose actions are unimpeded. Homage to you, the soul of all, the form of the universe, beyond all measure. Homage to you, whose head is everywhere, whose movement is everywhere.” Having granted fearlessness, the eternal Lord of gods rejoiced. He gave that boon to the gatekeeper and became subject to the devotion of his devotee. Yet, amidst this, a question arose: “What food shall we prepare in this place, filled with dreadful fear of serpents?” For whatever is given to the unworthy becomes a terrible means of enjoyment. Thus, the story unfolds, weaving together the consequences of desire, the highest virtue of giving, and the supreme grace of Viṣṇu, whose actions purify and uplift all beings.