Bali, devoted and humble, stood before his teacher and offered, “Rule the three worlds as their sovereign, while I, your servant, remain ever at your feet. Absorbed in the worship of your feet, I accept only the food you leave behind. The unwavering devotion that arises in one who serves their teacher, O Lord, is the highest steadfastness.” Prahlada, Bali’s father, then spoke words that upheld righteousness, fulfilled desires, and brought prosperity. “Whatever a parent gives as a blessing, so too should the sons receive. You, Bali, now stand as a true practitioner of yoga. Therefore, always remain devoted to the service of your teachers.” With these words, Bali was quickly placed upon Indra’s throne by the Brahman; seated upon the lion throne, the lord of the Daityas shone with brilliance like Maghavan himself. Prahlada addressed him, his words deep and resonant as thunderclouds: “Instruct me, O Bali, regarding righteousness, wealth, desire, and liberation. If it is fitting, mighty-armed one, please speak further.” Prahlada continued, imparting wise counsel joined with righteousness and prosperity: “Acquire wealth, but never by violating righteousness. Perform only those actions that are beneficial both in this world and the next, O son. Act in such a way that your fame is never diminished, O wise one. Ensure that all in our house dwell in complete contentment—elders, kinsmen, virtuous Brahmins, and all who uphold fame and renown. Through your pure conduct and diligent effort, your name will become renowned throughout the world. “Kings attain prosperity through unwavering devotion to service. Therefore, the foremost twice-born, those versed in the scriptures, perform sacrifices for kings; through the smoke of these sacrificial fires, the king’s peace is secured. Let the Kshatriyas, O lord of the Daityas, be steadfast in their duty of protecting the people. Those who live by trade or other means should tend livestock and fulfill their roles. Let the Shudras, best of the Asuras, always act according to your just command. In this way, righteousness will flourish, and with its growth, the rise of kings will follow. With the increase of righteousness comes your own prosperity; with its decline, loss will surely follow.” Bali listened with reverence and replied to the great sage, “Whatever you command, I shall do.” Endowed always with righteousness, Bali governed the three worlds. Compelled by his own noble disposition, he sought refuge in Brahma. With his radiance, he illuminated his entire realm—gods and demons alike basked in his light. But the gods, troubled, lamented: “O best among the gods, our very nature has been subdued by mighty Bali. Not only ours, but even the sun itself has been weakened by his strength. Except for Hari, who has a thousand heads and ten hundred feet, none can reclaim what belongs to the domain of true righteousness from Bali.” Seeing Indra and the other gods dejected, the great sage went to the Vibhitaka grove. There, righteousness stood firmly on four feet, established among all four castes, O Narada. Compassion, charity, kindness, service, and sacrificial acts prevailed everywhere. Yet, by the power of Bali, even the strong Brahman was repeatedly subdued. Still, the foremost among men, ever dedicated to protecting their people and upholding righteousness, flourished. The fortune of the three worlds, bestower of all boons, had now come to Bali, the lord of the Daityas.