The Story of Bali: Seeking Liberation from the Cycle of Rebirth

Day 159

The Story of Bali: Seeking Liberation from the Cycle of Rebirth

Vasistha continues his teachings on attaining liberation using the story of King Bali.

King Bali and his Discontent

King Bali ruled the netherworld (Patala) and was protected by Lord Vishnu himself. However, over time, Bali became disillusioned with worldly pleasures and the cycle of rebirth.

Bali's Questions

Bali pondered the impermanence of everything in the three worlds and the repetitive nature of worldly existence. He questioned the purpose of ruling and seeking worldly happiness if everything eventually ends.

Remembering Virocana's Teachings

Bali recalled his father, Virocana's teachings about a higher reality beyond the world of appearances. Virocana described a realm of pure light and a powerful minister who governs the three worlds.

The Realm of Pure Light

Virocana described a vast realm devoid of physical features like mountains, oceans, or even gods. In this realm exists only the supreme light – omnipotent, omnipresent, and silent.

The Minister and the King

Virocana explained that this realm has a king who remains in eternal peace. The king has a minister who is ignorant and insentient yet carries out all the king's wishes. This minister is responsible for creating and altering the three worlds.

Bali's Curiosity

Bali wanted to know more about this realm free from suffering. He asked Virocana to explain the identity of the minister and the king.

The Power of the Minister

Virocana emphasized the immense power of the minister. He controls the gods, demons, and even births and deaths in the three worlds. Even Vishnu's victories over demons were attributed to the minister's will.

Conquering the Minister

Virocana revealed that only the king can defeat the minister. When the king desires, the minister can be conquered. Virocana challenged Bali to conquer this powerful minister to attain true liberation.