The demigods said: The three worlds are created by the five elements — namely ether, air, fire, water and earth — which are controlled by various demigods, beginning from Lord Brahmā. Being very much afraid that the time factor will end our existence, we offer presentations unto time by performing our work as time dictates. The time factor himself, however, is afraid of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Therefore let us now worship that Supreme Lord, who alone can give us full protection.
Srimad Bhagavata Purana
श्रीमद्भागवतमहापुराणम्
मूल श्लोकः
देवा ऊचुः । वाय्वम्बराग्न्यप्क्षितयस्त्रिलोका ब्रह्मादयो ये वयमुद्विजन्तः । हराम यस्मै बलिमन्तकोऽसौ बिभेति यस्मादरणं ततो नः
devā ūcuḥ | vāyvambarāgnyapkṣitayastrilokā brahmādayo ye vayamudvijantaḥ | harāma yasmai balimantako'sau bibheti yasmādaraṇaṃ tato naḥ
SB 6.9.21