Such were the freaks of sages in the times of the Puranas.
Never was there a more complete example of piety divorced from morality than in these theories.

The most wicked demons acquire power over gods and men, by devout asceticism.

This principle is already fully developed in the epic poems.

The plot of the Ramayana turns around this idea.

A Rajah, Ravana, had become so powerful by sacrifice and devotion, that he oppressed the gods; compelled Yama (or Death) to retire from his dominions; compelled the sun to shine there all the year, and the moon to be always full above his Raj.