GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OP INDIA

CENTRAL
ARCHAEOLOGICAL
LI BRAR Y

accession m.^h

if f i

call No. Em<4 f

D.G.A. 79.

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ANCIENT INDIAN ^
TRADITION & MYTHOLOGY

805

TRANSLATED

By A BOARD OF SCHOLARS

AND EDITED BY

Prof. J. L. SHASTRI

ANCIENT INDIAN TRADITION & MYTHOLOGY
SERIES

[Puranas in -Translation]

Siva

VAVU
GARUDA

kOrma

nAradIya ■

LINGA '

MATSYA

MARKAtfDEYA

VI§tfU

VAMANA

BRAHMA

brahmAi^da
brahma vaivarta

AGNI

VARAHA

PADMA

SKANDA

BHAGAVATA

BHAVI?YA

KJN t K AL AHi :\m OlAXili***

sw„„:. f .hprt — *

,5"-^^.

THE

SIVA-PURAN A

TRANSLATED BY

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CONTENTS

RUDRESVARA SAMHITA : PARVATlKHANDA
SECTION III

Pages

1 . Marriage of Himacala . . . . 475

2. Sanaka etc. curse Mena and her sisters . . 478

3. Gods praise Siva . . . . 482

4. Goddess Durga consoles the gods . . 485

5. Mena obtains the boon . . . . 489

6. Parvati's birth . . . . 494

7. Childhood sports of Parvati . . 499

8. Narada-Himalaya Conversation . . 501

9. Parent's advice to Parvati and Siva appears

before Parvati in dream . . 506

10. Mars is born and raised to the status of a

planet .. .. 510

11. Siva and Himavat meet together .. 512

12. Siva-Himavat dialogue .. .. 516

13. Siva-Parvati dialogue . . ... 520

14. Birth and Penance of Vajranga and Taraka . . 525

15. Penance and reign of Taraka . . 528

16. Brahma consoles the gods harassed by Taraka . . 533
17- Dialogue between Indra and Kama .. 537

18. Kama causes perturbation in Siva's grove . . 540

1 9. Kama's destruction by Siva . . 544

20. The submarine fire . . . , 548

21. Narada's instructions to Parvati 550

22. Parvati's penance . . . . 554

23. Himavat dissuades Parvati, gods go to meet Siva 560

24. Siva's consent to marry Parvati . . 564

25. Parvati's test by seven celestial sages. . . 571

26. Parvati-jatila dialogue . . . . 578

27. Fradulent words of Brahmacarin . . 582

28. Parvati sees Siva . . . . 585

29. Siva-Parvati dialogue . . . . 589

I

( viii )

30. Parvati returns home . . . . 593

31. Siva's magic .. .. 597

32. Seven celestial sages arrive . . . . 602

33. Appeasement of "Himavat . . . . 607

34. Anaranya .. ..'613

35. Padma and Pippalada .. .. 617

36. Speeches of seven sages . . . . 623

37. Letter of betrothal despached; arrangement

for the celebration of marriage; arrival of

the mountain-invitees . . 626

36, Description of the dais . . 631

39. Arrival of the gods and Sivy's preparations . . 634

40. Marriage procession of Siva , , 639

41. Description of the altar-structure .. 643
42.. Meeting of Siva and Himav.at . . 648

43. Siva's wonderful sport . . . . 650

44. Mena, regains consciousness . . 656

45. Jubilation of the citizens at the sight of Siva . . 664

46. Arrival of the bridegroom . . 668

47. Siva enters the palace of Himavat . . 671
48,. Description of Marriage . , 675
49. Delusion of Brahma . . , , 680
50.. Description of fun and frolic , . 685

51 . Resuscitation of Kama . , , , 690

52. Marriage party is fed and Siva retires to bed 694

53. Description of Siva's return journey ... 697

54. Siva returns to Kailasa . . . . 706

RUDRASAMHITA

KUMARAKHANDA SECTION IV

1, Dalliance of Siva .. .. 711

2, Birtli of Siva's son . . . . 716

3, Boyhood sports of Karttikeya . . 722
4i. Search for Karttikeya and his talk with Nandin 726

5. Karttikeya is crowned . . . . 732

6. Miraculous Feat of Karttikeya . . 738

7. Commencement of the war . . 741
8* Battle between the gods and asuras 745
9« Taraka's fight with Indra, Visnu and Virabhadra 749

( ht )

10. Death ofTaraka and Jubilation of the gods .. 754

1 1 . Victory of Kumara and the death of Bana

and Pralamba , . . . 758

12- Gods eulogise Siva . . ... 761

13. Birth of Ganesa .. .. 765

14. Ganas argue and wrangle . . . . 769

15. Ganesa's battle . . ... 775

16. Ganesa's head is chopped off . . 780

17. Resuscitation of Ganesa .. .. 783

1 8. Ganesa crowned as the chief of Ganas . . 788

19. Ganesa's marriage . . . . 793

20. Celebration of Ganesa's marriage . . 798

RUDRASAMHITA : YUDDHAKHANDA SECTION V

1 . Description of the Tripuras . . 802

2. Prayer of the gods . . . . 809

3. Virtues of the Tripuras .. .. 815

4. Tripuras are initiated . . . . 820

5. Tripuras are fascinated .. .. 826

6. Prayer to Siva .. ..831

7. Gods pray to Siva and Siva's instructions

to the gods . . . . 836

8. Construction of the cosmic chariot . . 840

9. Siva's campaign . . . . 843

1 0. Burning of the Tripuras . . . . 846

11. God's prayer . . 850

1 2. Gods return to their abodes . . 854

1 3. Resuscitation of Indra . . . . 858

14. Birth of Jalandhara and his marriage . . 863

15. Fight between the gods and Jalandhara . . 866

16. Battle of the gods . . 873

17. Fight between Visnu and Jalandhara .. 877

18. Dialogue between Narada and Jalandhara .. 881

19. Jalandhara's emissary to Siva .. 886

20. Fight between the Ganas and Asuras . . 891

21. Description of the Special war .. 896

22. Jalandhara's battle ... .. 900

23. Outraging the modesty of Vrnda .. 904

U)

24. Jalandhara is slain . . 909

25. God's prayer to Siva .. ... 914

26. Vanishing of Visnu's delusion .. 917

27. Birth of Sankhacuda . . 923

28. Penance and marriage of Sankhacuda . , 926

29. Previous birth of Sankhacuda . . 930

30. Prayers to Siva . . 935

31. Siva's advice to the gods . . . . 938

32. Siva sends emissary to Sankhacuda . . 943

33. March of Siva . . 946

34. March of Sankhacuda . . . . 950

35. Dialogue between Siva and the emissary

of Sankhacuda .. ... 953

36. Mutual fight ... ... 957

37. Fight of Sankhacuda ... ... 960

38. Fight of Kali ... ... 963

39. Annihilation of the army of Sankhacuda . . 966

40. Death of Sankhacuda ... . . 970

41. Curse of Tulasi ... . . 973

42. Death of Hiranyaksa . . ... 978

43. Death of Hiranyakasipu . . - . . 984

44. Andhaka attains the leadership of Ganas . . 989

45. Andhaka sends his emissary to Siva . . 997

46. Andhaka's fight with Siva . . 1002

47. Swallowing of Sukra .. 1007

48. Swallowing of Sukra and his emergence 1012

49. Andhaka obtains the leadership of Ganas .. 1016
.50. Sukra learns Mrtasafijivani lore 1021

51. Narrative of CTsa .. ..1026

52. Narrative of TJsa ( continued ) . .. 1031

53. Dalliance of t)sa and Aniruddha . . 1036

54. Fight among Bana, Siva, Krsna and others . . 1041

55. Chopping of Bana's arms and his humiliation . . 1047

56. Bana attains the position of Siva's Gana . . 1951

57. Gajasura is slain . . , . 1054

58. Dundubhi Nirhrada is slain . . 1061

59. Vidala and Utpala are slain . . 1065

PARVATIKHANDA

SECTION HI
CHAPTER ONE

( The marriage of Himacala})

NSrada said : —

1. O Brahma, how did the goddess Sati, the daughter
of Daksa who forsook her body in her father's sacrifice,
become the daughter of Himacala, and the mother of the
universe ?

2. How could she secure Siva as her husband after
performing a severe penance ? Please explain this clearly
to me who ask you about it.

Brahma said ; —

3. O foremost of sages, listen to the story of Siva,
which is excellent, sanctifying, highly divine, auspicious and
destructive of all sins.

4-5. When the great goddess Sati, the daughter of
Daksa, was sporting about on the Himalayas with Siva,
Mena, 2 the beloved of Himacala thought that she was her
own daughter and loved her like a mother with all kinds of
nourishments.

6-7. When the great Goddess Sati, the daughter of
Daksa who had been to her father's sacrifice and who did
not receive his due attention became angry and cast off
her body, at the very same time, O sage, Himacala's
beloved Mena wanted to propitiate her in Sivaloka.

I. Himavat or Himacala is represented in two forms (i ) the mobile
and (2) immobile. The former is the subtle human form while tbe latter
is the gross, stationary form identical with the mountain Himalayas.

The present section recounts the marriage of Himavat with Mena. in
his mobile form. See RS III. r. 15.

a. Mena or Menaka, the wife of Himavat and the mother qf
Parvati, was one of the three daughters of Svadha, the wife of Kavi, a
.class of.'Purs. Svadha was one of. the sixty, daughters of Dak?a arid Pra-
siiti who gave birth to Mena, Dhanya and Kalavati. ... ,

476

Sivapurana

8. Sati thought to herself :— "I shall be her daughter"
and cast off her body in order to become the daughter of
Himacala.

9. At the proper time Sati who had cast off her body
and who was worshipped and eulogised by the gods became
the daughter of Mena out of sheer joy.

10. On being advised by Narada, the goddess who
was named Parvati, performed a severe penance and thereby
secured Siva as her husband.

Narada said : —

11. O Brahma, of great intellect and foremost of
eloquent gods, please tell me the origin and details of the
marriage of Mena.

12. Blessed indeed is the gentle lady Menaka of
whom Sati was born as a daughter. Hence that chaste
lady is worthy of the honour and blessings of everyone.

Brahma said : —

13. O sage Narada, you listen to the story of the
origin of Parvati's mother and her marriage and other
details both sanctifying and conducive to the growth of
devotion.

14. O excellent sage, there in the northern region is
a mountain called Himavat who is the lord of mountains
and has great splendour and prosperity.

15. His twofold aspects— that of a mobile nature and
that of the immobile one — are well known. I succinctly
describe his subtle form.

16. He is beautiful and is the storehouse of multi-
farious gems. Extending from the eastern to the western
ocean he appears like a measuring rod of the Earth. 3

17. He abounds in various trees. Being of variegated
shape and features he is adorned by many peaks on him.
Lions, tigers and other animals frequent it. Many happy
persons live there for ever.

18. He is the storehouse of snow (and yet) very fierce.
He is the resort of wonderful things. He is resorted to by

3. For the similarity of ideas and verbal expression, compare Kali-
dasa's Kumarasambhava I. i.

tiudrasamhitd

ill

the gods, sages and seers. He is a great favourite of
Siva.

19. He is of pure soul, an abode of austerities. He
sancti6es even the great souls. He is the bestower of the
benefit of austerities. He is the auspicious storehouse of
multifarious minerals.

20. He is of a divine form. He is beautiful in every
part. He is the unaffected part of Visnu. He is the king
of leading mountains and a great favourite of the good.

21. Due to the desire for the benefit of the manes
and the gods and for the stabilisation of his race as well as
for the increase of virtue, Himacala wanted to marry.

22. At that time, considering their own interest
entirely, O excellent sage, the gods approached the celestial
forefathers and said lovingly to them.

The gods said : —

23. "O ye forefathers, listen to our words with
pleasure. If you desire that the affairs of the gods be ful-
filled you must act accordingly soon.

24-25. Uniting your eldest daughter Mena of auspicious
features with Himacala, a great benefit will accrue to every-
one. At every step, the miseries of the gods and those of
yours as well can be reduced".

Brahma said : —

26. On hearing these words of the gods, pondering
over them and remembering the curse incurred by their
daughters, the forefathers said "Amen" to their proposals.

27. They gave their daughter Mena. to Himavat. In
that auspicious marriage there* were great festivities.

28- Visnu, the other gods and the sages reached there
with their hearts set on Siva.

29. Giving many charitable gifts they made the
celebration a great success. They praised the celestial fore-
fathers and the Himavat.

■ 30. All the gods and the sages rejoiced and ?e turned
to their own abodes with their hearts set on Siva.

31. After receiving many articles as gifts .and

478 Sivapurdna

marrying the beloved lady Mena, the lord of mountains
returned to his abode and rejoiced.

Brahma said : —

32. O excellent sage, the pleasing details of the
splendid marriage of Himavat with Mena have been re-
counted to you thus. What more do you wish to hear?

CHAPTER TWO

[Mend and others incur the imprecation of Sanaka etc.)

Narada said : —

1. O Brahma, the intelligent one, please now tell me
reverently about the origin of Mena as well as the impreca-
tion. Please clear my doubts.

Brahma said : —

2. O Narada and the sages, listen to the narrative of the
origin of Mena. O excellent son, O great scholar, I shall
mention it now.

3. O sage, I have already told you about my son
Daksa. He had sixty daughters all of whom were the
instruments of creation.

4. He celebrated their marriages with Kasyapa and
other bridegrooms. You know all that already. O Narada,
now, listen to the present story.

5. Among those, the daughter Svadha was given to
the forefathers. She had three daughters &\\ of whom were
of handsome features and virtuous forms.

6. O excellent sage, listen to their holy names which
remove obstacles and confer blessings.

7. Mena was the eldest. Dhanya was the middle.
Kalavati was the youngest. All these were mentally
conceived daughters of the forefathers.

8. They were not born of the womb of Svadha.
They were conventionally considered her children. On
reciting their names, men can achieve their desires.

Rudrasathhita

479

9. The mothers of the worlds are worthy of reverence
of the entire universe always. They are the bestowers of
great joy. They are great yoginTs, storehouses of knowledge.
They pervade the three worlds.

10. O excellent sage, once the three sisters went to
Svetadvlpa (white island) 4 in the world of Visnu for sight-
seeing purpose.

11. After bowing to and eulogising Visnu with great
devotion they halted there at his bidding. A great con-
course of people was held there.

12. O sage, at the same time, Siddhas, sons of Brahma —
Sanaka and others came there. They bowed to and
lauded Visnu and stayed there at his bidding.

13. On seeing those sages Sanaka and others and the
persons who had assembled there, stood up. When they, the
elders of gods respected by the people, sat they all bowed
to them.

14. Helpless by misfortune and deluded by lord Siva's
illusion O sage, the three sisters did not stand up.

1 5. Siva's illusion is weighty and capable of deluding
the worlds. The entire universe is subservient to it. It is
also called Siva's Will.

16. The same is also called an action that has begun
to fructify. Its names are many. Everything takes place
on Siva's wish. There is nothing to be pondered over in
this respect.

17. Becoming a victim thereof, the sisters did not
make obeisance to them. They remained surprised and
stunned thereaftar seeing them.

18. On seeing such a behaviour on their part the
great sages, Sanaka and others, despite being wise, became
unbearably furious.

19. Himself deluded by Siva's illusion Sanaka, a
perfect Yogin, furiously told them giving a curse as punish-
ment.

Sanatkum&ra said : —

20. Inspite of being the daughters of the forefathers,

4. It has not been possible to identify this island. Colonel Wilford
attempted to identify it with Britain. See. H. M. P. 315.

480

Sivaput&na

ye three sisters are foolish, bereft of wisdom and ignorant
of the essence of the Vedas.

21. You did not stand up nor did you pay any
respects to us. You were haughty and deluded and so
'evificed a deluded disposition of human beings. Hence all
of you shall leave heaven.

22. May the three sisters deluded by ignorance be
born as human womenfolk. May ye reap this fruit as a result
ttf the power of your own action.

Brahma said :—

23. On hearing this, the chaste maidens got perplexed.
The three fell at his feet and spoke with their heads bent
down.

The daughters of the forefathers said : —

24. "O excellent sage, ocean of mercy, be pleased
now. Because we Were mentally confounded we did not
bow to you.

25. O Brahmin, the mult thereof has been achieved
by Us. O great sage it is not your fault. Bless us now
whereby we shall regain heavenly abode again."

"Brahma said : —

26. On hearing their words, O dear, the sage spoke
to them. He had been induced by Siva's illusion to give
them redemption from the curse. He was a bit consoled.

Sanatkumara said : —

27. "O ye three daughters of forefathers, listen
With pleasure to my words that will dispel your sorrow and
bestow happiness on you.

28. May the eldest among you become the wife of
TlimaVat the mountain that is a part of Visnu. Patfvatl
shall be her daughter.

29. The second daughter Dhanya shall be the YoginT,
the wife of Janaka. Her daughter shall be Mahalaksmi in the
name of Slta.

30. The youngest KalavatI shall be the wife of the
VaiSya — Vrsabhaha. At the end of Dvapara, Radha shall fee

RudrasaihhM

481

her daughter.

31. The Yogini Mena shall attain the great region
Kailasa along with her body and in the company of her
husband due to the boon of Parvati.

32. Janaka shall be blessed by Sita born in Janaka's
race and he shall be a living liberated soul. A great Yogin,
he will attain Vaikuntha.

33. Kalavati by the virtue of Vrsabhana shall become
a living liberated soul and attain Goloka 5 along with her
daughter. There is no doubt about it.

34. Without adversity how can one attain greatness ?
To persons of good rites, if misery vanishes happiness is
likely to be difficult of access.

35. Ye the daughters of forefathers shall shine in
heaven. By the vision of Visnu your evil actions have been
quelled."

36. After saying this, the sage was freed of his fury
on thinking of Siva, the bestower of wisdom, worldly
pleasures and salvation.

37. Listen further to my words always pleasing to you.
You are all blessed by Siva's pleasure. Hence you will be
worthy of honour and respect immediately.

38. Mena's daughter, goddess Parvati, the mother of
the universe shall become Siva's beloved after performing
severe penance.

39. Dhanya's daughter Sita will become Rama's wife.
Based on worldly conventions she will sport about with Rama.

40. Kalavati's daughter Radha, resident of Goloka 6
shall become the wife of Krsna united with him in secret love.

Brahma said

41. After saying this, that holy sage Sanatkumara varn-
ished there itself along with his brothers after he was eulogi-
sed duly.

42. The three sisters, the mentally conceived daughters
of the forefathers were freed of their sins and attained happi-
ness. They returned to their residence quickly.

5. Goloka : It is a modem addition to the original series of fourteen
lokas. It is identified with Gokula, a pa3toral district on the Yamuna
about Mathura. where Krsna passed his boyhood with the cowherd.

482

SivapurSna

CHAPTER THREE

[Hymn to Siva by Visnu and other gods)

Narada said: —

1. O Brahma, the best of eloquent ones, of great wis-
dom, please tell me. What is the subsequent story of the
good auspicious mountain ?

2. You have narrated the wonderful story of the auspi-
cious antecedents of Mena. The details of the marital rites
too are heard. Please continue the subsequent narrative.

3. After marrying Mena what did the mountain do
afterwards ? How was Parvati, the mother of the universe,
born of her ?

4. How did she secure Siva as her husband after perf-
orming a severe penance ? Narrate all these things in detail
regarding the glory of Siva.

Brahma said: —

5. O sage, lovingly listen to the auspicious glory of
Siva on hearing which even a slayer of a brahmin becomes
pure and attains all desires.

6. O Narada, there was great pomp and ceremony in
the three worlds when Himacala returned to his abode after
marrying Mena.

7. The delighted Himacala too celebrated a great festi-
val. With good intention he worshipped and revered brahmins,
kinsmen and others.

8. The contented brahmins returned to their respective
abodes after blessing them. The kinsmen and the others also
returned.

9. The delighted Himacala 6 sported with Mena, in his
cosy abode, Nandana and other parks as well as in several
nice places.

10. At that time, O sage, Visnu, the gods and the
noble-sould sages approached the mountain.

11. On seeing the gods after their arrival, the noble

6. It is a grove of Indra, lying to the north of Meru.

Rudrasamhita

483

Himacala bowed to them gladly and honoured them with
devotion. He praised his own good fortune.

12. With the head bent down and palms joined in
reverence, he eulogised them with great devotion. Himacala's
hair stood on end and tears of love fell from his eyes.

13. O sa-ge, after bowing to them, the delighted
Himacala spoke thus to Visnu and other gods.

Himacala said: —

14. Today my life has become fruitful. My good pena-
nce has become fruitful. Today my knowledge has become
fruitful. Today my sacred rites have become fruitful.

15. I have become blessed today. My entire kingdom,
my wife and family have become blessed. Everything has
become blessed. There is no doubt about it.

16. Wherefore have all of you come in a body ?
Lovingly command me, considering me your own servant.

Brahma said: —

17. On hearing these words of Himacala, Visnu and
other gods considered their affair fulfilled and were delighted.
They spoke.

Gods said: —

18. "O Himacala of great intellect, please listen to our
beneficent words. We shall gladly tell you why we have
come.

19. O Himacala, the mother of the universe TJma,
who was born as Daksa's daughter, became Rudra's wife and
sported for a long time on the earth.

20. On being disrespected by her father ( SatI rememb-
ered her vow, abandoned her body and returned to her own
region.

21-22 O Himacala, this story is well known in the world.
You too know it. If this takes place it will be an asset to
all gods as well as to you. The gods too will be under your
control."

Brahma said; —

23. On hearing these words of Visnu and others the-

484

£ivapur&na

delighted lord Himacala said — "So be it" and worshipped
them with respect.

24. After instructing him in the method to be followed
with great devotion they approached Unit, the consort of
Siva.

25. They stationed themselves in a good place and
remembered the mother of the universe, and bowing to her
repeatedly eulogised her with devotion.

The gods said: —

26. O goddess Uma, mother of the universe, resident
of Sivaloka, favourite of Siva, O great goddess, O Durga, we
bow to you,

27. With great devotion we bow to the illustrious Ene-
rgy, the holy, the tranquil, the holy nourishment and the one
with the forms of Mahat and the Avyakta.

28. We worship you, Siva the cause of welfare, the
pure, the gross, the subtle, the great goal and the one deli-
ghted with the inner and good learning.

29. You are faith, fortitude and prosperity. You alone
have control over everything; you are the splendour and
energy of the sun illuminating your own universe.

30. We bow to her who promotes robustness in all the
beings of the universe from Brahma to a blade of grass in the
whole Cosmos.

31. You are Gayatri, the mother of the Vedas, Savitri,
Sarasvati, the sustenance of all the universe; you are the triad
of the Vedas having Dharma for its form.

32. You are sleep in all living beings; you are hunger,
satiety, thirst, splendour, brilliance and contentment. You are
the delighter of every one for ever.

33. To those who perform meritorious actions you are
the goddess of fortune. To the sinners you are the eldest
sister, the deity of Ignominy; you are peace for the universe,
and the mother sustaining lives.

34. You are the essential feature of five elements. You
are Justice in those who uphold justice. You are endeavour
personified.

35. Of the Rgveda you are the invocation; of the
Yajurveda you are the blending knot of the mantras; of

Rudrasajfihita

485

Samaveda you are the song and of the Atharvana Veda you
are the measure of time, you are the final goal,

36. She who is the Tamasika power of all the Gods,
she who is visible in the Rajasika quality of the Creator, she
who is heard by us as the benefactress and of the form of
Siva is eulogised here.

37. Let us bow to her who is interested in residing on
the Vindhya mountains; 7 who is clever in the playful activity
of affording protection to Astariga Yoga; who is devoid of
cessation and who acts like a raft that enables the crossing
of the ocean of worldly existence with its terrible miseries.

38. May she be pleased with us, for keeping up the
sustenance of the world, she, who in the form of slumber
that is extremely exhilarating to all born in the universe, ex-
tends pleasure in the nose, eyes, face, arms, chest and the
mind.

B r ahma said: —

39. Thus eulogising the great Goddess SatI, the
mother of the universe, all of them stood waiting lovingly
desirous of seeing her.

CHAPTER FOUR

(The Goddess consoles the Gods)

Brahma said: —

1 . Thus eulogised by the Gods, the Goddess Durga, the
mother of the universe, the destroyer of impassable distress,
appeared in front of them.

2. She was seated in a wonderful divine gem-set
chariot over which a soft cushion had been spread and which
was decorated with tinkling ornaments.

3. She was shining with the brilliance of her limbs that
surpassed even the lustre of a crore of suns. She was sur-

7. As Vindhyavasini, dweller in the Vindhyas, the Goddess is
worshipped at a place where the Vindhyas approach the Ganges, near
Mirzapur.

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Sivapurclna

rounded by a halo created by her own lustre. She was of
symmetrical splendour.

4. She was the unequalled supreme illusion, the beauti-
ful wife of Sadasiva. She had all the three qualities and was
devoid of attributes 8 also, she had been staying in the region of
Siva.

5. She was the mother of the three deities 9 , Candi,
Siva, the destroyer of the distress of all, the mother of all
supreme slumber and the redeemer of all her own people.

6. Siva was seen by the gods through the power of
huge column of brilliance. Again the gods eulogised her in
order to have a sight of her.

7. Then Visriu and other gods who were desirous of
seeing her saw the mother of the universe there itself after
receiving her favour.

8. The dwellers of heaven were extremely pleased,
they bowed to her again and again and particularly eulogised
her.

The gods said : —

9. O Siva, O great Goddess, O mother of the universe
we gods bow to you, the destroyer of all distress.

10. O Goddess, neither the Vedas nor the sacred texts
know you perfectly. Your greatness, O Siva, is beyond the
scope of speech and mind and cannot even be meditated
upon.

1 1. Even the Vedas mention you, trembling with
fright, 'by negating what you are not. What will be the
matter in regard to others ?

12. Many devotees know the same after getting your
favour through devotion. There is no cause for fear to the
devotees who seek refuge in you.

13. O great Goddess listen to our submission which we,
your slaves for ever, are going to explain.

8. As the personified energy of the gods Visriu, Brahma and Rudra,
representing the three qualities Sattva, Rajas and Tamas, the Goddess is
called 'Triguna' i.e. possessed of three, qualities. But as the personified
energy of Siva, who is the Supreme Being, devoid of attributes she is
called Nirgutja.

9. She is the mother-goddess of Vi?nu, Brahma and Rudra, the
'synthetic form of three qualities responsible for the creation $ ,■ maintenance
and dissolution of the universe. ■ .• ■ •

Rudrasarhkita

487

14. Formerly you were born as the daughter of Daksa
and were married to Siva. You destroyed the great misery
of Brahma and others.

1 5. Being disrespected by your father, you cast off your
body in accordance with your vow. You then went to your own
world and Siva became miserable.

16. O great Goddess, the purpose of the gods has not
been completely carried out. The sages are agitated.
Hence we, Gods, have sought refuge in you.

17. O great Goddess, please fulfil the desire of the God,
O Siva, so that the words of Sanatkumara may be fruitful.

18. O Goddess, incarnating again on the earth please
be the wife of Rudra ( Siva) again. Carry on your sports in
a fitting manner and let the Gods be happy.

19. O Goddess, may Rudra too, the resident of Kailasa
be happy. Let all become happy. Let misery perish entirely.

Brahma said: —

20. Saying so, Visnu and the other gods, full of loving
devotion remained waiting silently and humbly.

21-22. Siva too was delighted on hearing the eulogy of
the gods and ascertaining the course of the same after
remembering her lord Siva, the compassionate Uma addressed
smilingly the gods, chief of whom was Visnu. The Goddess,
favourably disposed to her devotees, said: —

Uma said : —

23. O Visnu, O, Brahma, O Gods and sages who are
free from sorrow and pain ye listen to my words. I am
delighted undoubtedly.

24. My activities are conducive to happiness every-
where in the three worlds. The delusion of Daksa and other
things were carried out by me alone.

25. I shall take a full incarnation on the earth. There
is no doubt in this. There are many reasons for the same. I
shall mention them with respect.

26. Formerly, O gods, with great devotion Himacala
and Mena rendered service to me in my life as Sati, like my
parents.

27. Even now they continuously render me service and

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Sivapura$a

Mena particularly (does so). There is no doubt about my
becoming their daughter.

28. Just as you, Rudra too, desires my incarnation in
the abode of Himavat. Hence I shall incarnate. That shall
be the end of misery in the world.

29. All of you return to your abodes. You shall be
happy for a long time. After incarnating I shall give Mena
full happiness.

30. I shall become Siva's wife. But this desire is a
great secret with me. Siva's divine sport is wonderful. It
deludes even the wise.

31-32. Ever since I cast off my body born of Daksa
on seeing my lord's disrespect at the hands of my father at
the altar of sacrifice, my lord Rudra is tormented by thoughts
about me.

33-34. He saw my anger at the altar of my father's
sacrifice. Thinking that the virtuous lady had cast-off her
body out of love for him he became a Yogin and abandoned
home-life. He assumed an unearthly form and features. But
he could not bear my separation.

35. On account of me he was much distressed. He
put on an abnormal dress. Ever since he forsook the excellent
pleasure of love.

36. Hear further, O Visnu, O Brahma, O sages and
O gods, the divine sports of the supreme lord Siva, that
protect the universe.

37. Oppressed by the pangs of bereavement He wreav
thed a garland of my bones. Although He is the sole en-
lightened god He did not get peace anywhere.

38. Like a non-god, like a helpless creature he roamed
about here and there and cried aloud. The lord Himself
could not distinguish between the proper and the improper.

39. The lord Siva did this just to show the behaviour
of a love-lorn lover. He blabbered like a lover in despair
due to separation.

40. But really the supreme lord has no aberrations, is
not distressed and remains unconquered. My master Siva is
perfect, lord of all and the controller of illusion.

41. He is not tarnished by illusion. Of what avail
are illusion, love and other emotions for Him?

Rudrasamhita

489

42. Rudra, the lord, is anxious to marry me and hence
my incarnation on the Earth at the residence of Mena. and
Himacala, O gods.

43. In order to propitiate Rudra, I shall incarnate as
the daughter of Mena, the wife of Himacala, in accordance
with the way of the world.

44. After performing a severe penance as His devotee
I shall become Rudra's beloved and then perform the work
of the gods. This is truth, real truth, there is no doubt
about it.

45. All of you return to your abodes. Continuously
worship Siva. Undoubtedly your miseries will be quelled by
His favour.

46. By the grace of merciful lord Siva, you will achieve
auspicious results. As the wife of that lord I shall be hono-
ured and worshipped in the world.

Brahma said : —

47. O dear, even as the gods were watching, Siva,
the mother of the universe, vanished after saying this and
returned immediately to her world.

48. After making obeisance to the direction in which
she went, the delighted Visnu and others, sages and the
gods, returned to their abodes.

49. O excellent sages, thus I have narrated to you
the auspicious' narrative of the goddess Durga. It is always
pleasing to men and it bestows worldly pleasures and salva-
tion.

50. Whoever hears or recites this with concentration,
reads or teaches this, will obtain the fruits of all desires.

CHAPTER FIVE

{Merta obtains the boon)

Narada said : —

1." When the Goddess Durga vanished and the gods
returned to their abodes, what happened next ?

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Sivapurana

2. O dear, how did Mena. and the lord of the
mountains perform the great penance ? How did he beget a
daughter of Mena. Please narrate.

Brahma said : —

3. O best of brahmins, O most excellent of my sons,
listen to that great account. After bowing to Siva with
devotion I shall narrate that story which increases devotion.

4. When Visnu and other gods returned after instruc-
ting him, the lord of the mountains and Mena performed a
great penance.

5. Meditating on Siva and Siva day and night with
devout mind, the couple worshipped them continuously.

6. The beloved of the mountain worshipped the god-
dess along with Siva, joyously. She gave charitable gifts
always to the brahmins for their satisfaction.

7. Desirous of obtaining a child, she worshipped Siva
everyday for twenty-seven years beginning it in the month of
March-April.

8. Observing a fast on the eighth day of the lunar fort-
night, she made charitable gifts of sweets, offerings of oblation
rice cakes, puddings and fragrant flowers on the ninth day.

9. She made clay idol of the Goddess and worshipped
her by offering various things on the banks of the Ganga in
Ausadhiprastha. 10

10. On some days she observed a complete fast. On
some days she observed sacred rites. Some days wind alone
constituted her food and some days she drank only water.

1 1 . With her mind fixed on Siva, Mena passed twenty
seven years with pleasure and brilliant lustre.

1 2. At the end of twenty-seven years, Uma the beloved
of Siva, the mother of the world and identical with the uni-
verse became highly delighted.

13. The goddess Siva, delighted by her good devotion
appeared in front of Mena in order to bless her.

14. Appearing to her in a form of divine limbs
through a lustrous zone, she smilingly said to Mena.

io. It was the capital of Himavat. Cf. Kalidasa's Kurnara 6. 33, 36.
The name indicates that it was a market place for the mountainous herbs.

Rudrasamhita

491

The Goddess said : —

15. O beloved of the mountain, I am delighted by
your penance. O chaste lady, tell me what you desire in
your mind.

16. O Mena, whatever is desired by you by penance,
sacred rites and ecstatic contemplation I shall grant you and
that too whenever you wish for it.

17. Then seeing the goddess in her presence Mena
bowed and spoke these words: —

Mena said: —

18. O Goddess, your form has been perceived by me
directly, just now. I wish to eulogise you. Be pleased.

Brahma said: — -

19. On being thus requested by Mena, the goddess
Uma, the enchantress of everyone, embraced Mena, and was
highly delighted.

20. Acquiring very great wisdom, Mena eulogised
Siva, who had appeared in person, by means of pleasing
words with great devotion.

Mena said: —

21. I bow to the great goddess, 11 the bestower of all
desires, I bow to her who wields great illusion, the creator
and sustainer of the universe.

22. I bow to her of contemplative sleep, and to her the
wielder of great illusion and the cause of permanent bliss. I
bow to the mother of the universe. I bow to Siddha. having
the garland of auspicious lotuses.

23. I bow to the grandmother, of perpetual bliss. I
bow to the goddess who dispels the sorrow of the devotees,

1 1 . The Goddess Siva is mentioned here under a variety of names,
forms, attributes and actions. She is contemplated upon by the ascetics for
the deliverance from the bondage of this world. She is propitiated for the
satiation of desires with the bloody sacrifices performed according to
Atharvanic rites.

She is represented in her milder and fiercer forms. In her milder
form she is pleasing as the moon, gracious as the mother. In her terrible
aspect she is furious as the fire and scorching as the sun.

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Sivapurana

who is a model for all women and who constitutes the
intellect of all living beings.

24. You are the cause of the snapping of all fetters of
ascetics. Which one of your powers can be sung by women
like me? You are violence mentioned in the Atharvaveda.
You (of such powerful means) fulfil my desire.

25. The living beings are being united to the different
principles of the nature of permanence and otherwise and
those without substance are discarded. You are the inherent
power of those permanent principles. In the proper time you
become a woman of ability with Yogic powers.

26. You are the origin and the sustainer of the worlds.
You are the eternal Prakrti, the great, by whom even the
Brahman is brought under control. O you, of noble nature,
O mother, be pleased with me.

27. You are the great power latent in fire; you are
the burning power of the sun's rays; you are the pleasing
power of the extensive moonlight. O Goddess, I bow to you.

28. To good women you manifest yourself as their
beloved; to persons of perfect self-control and sublimation you
manifest yourself as eternal; to the entire universe you mani-
fest as desire; as of Visnu you are the Maya so you are of
Siva.

29. You assume different forms as you please for the
purpose of creation, sustenance and annihilation and give
birth to the bodies of Brahma, Visnu and Siva. You, of such
potentiality, be pleased. Obeisance to you again.

Brahma said: —

30. Thus eulogised, the goddess spoke to Mena desiring
her to choose a boon.

Uma said: —

31. O Himacala's beloved, you are as favourite to me
as my vital air. Whatever you desire I shall give you. There
is nothing that I can withhold from you.

32. On hearing these nectar-like words of the Goddess,
the delighted Mena, the wife of Himacala, said.

RudrasarfihitS

493

Mend said: —

33. O Siva, Hail, Hail ! O great goddess, If you con-
sider me worthy of a boon, I shall choose one.

34. O mother of the universe, at first let me have a
hundred sons endowed with longevity, heroism, prosperity and
accomplishments.

35. After that let me have a daughter of comely feat-
ures and good qualities who will delight both the families
and who will be revered by the three worlds.

36. O Siva, be my daughter for fulfilling the needs of
the gods. 0 Goddess, be Rudra's wife and indulge in divine
sports with the lord.

Brahma said: —

37. On hearing the words of Mena, the delighted godd-
ess spoke smilingly, fulfilling her desire.

The Goddess said: —

38. May hundred heroic sons be born to you. One of
them very strong will be born at first.

39. I shall be born as your daughter since I am deligh-
ted by your devotion. Since I have been served by the gods
I shall fulfil their desire and carry out their activities,

Brahma said: —

40. Saying so, the Goddess Siva, vanished from there
even as Mena. was watching.

41. O dear one, on getting the desired boon from
the Goddess, Mena attained immeasurable joy. Her misery
occasioned by penance vanished.

42. Bowing down in that direction, the chaste lady of
delighted mind returned to her abode repeating the benedic-
tory word "Jaya" (be victorious).

43. She told her husband about the boon, which had
already been understood by him through good omens, by
her words which were rendered useless.

44. On hearing the words of Mena, the lord of moun-
tains became delighted. He praised his wife who was devoted
to Siva lovingly.

45. O sage, when their mutual sexual intercourse took

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Sivapurana

place, Mena conceived and the child in the womb gradually
grew up.

46-48. She gave birth to a beautiful son Mainaka 12 who
later on became the worthy recepient of the love of Naga
ladies and who later on entered into an alliance with the lord
of ocean. O celestial sage, when Indra, the slayer of Vrtra, be-
came angry and began to chop off the wings of mountains, he
retained his wings, nay, he did not even feel the pain of
being wounded by the thunderbolt. He had good limbs.
He had neat strength and prowess. He was the most impor-
tant of all the mountains born of him. He too became the
lord of mountains.

49. In the city of Himacala there was a wonderful
celebration of the event. The couple were highly delighted.
Their pain was at an end.

50. He gave monetary gifts and charitable offerings to
brahmins. Their devotion to Siva and Siva became increased.

CHAPTER SIX

(Pdrvati's birth)

Brahma said: —

1. Then the couple, with great devotion remembered
the goddess for her birth in order to carry out the work of the
gods.

2. Then the Goddess who formerly had cast off her
body to spite her father, by means of her Yogic powers, desi-
red to be born of the wife of the mountain.

3. In order to make her own words true, the great
goddess, who bestows everything desired, delightedly entered
the mind of the mountain with all her constituent elements.

4. Hence he shone with an extraordinary splendour

12. Mainaka, the son of Menaka and Himavat, is represented as the
most valiant of a hundred sons of his parents. When Indra clipped the
wings of the mountains he is said to have been the only one who escaped.

He is placed near the southern sea between India and Ceylon, for the
present text glorifies his friendship with the ocean. Cf also Skanda P. VI
9. to-i 1 "Mainakah Sumudrantah".

Rudrasarhhitd

495

and great joy. With a resplendent brilliance, he, of lofty mind,
became invincible like a blazing fire.

5. Then, in a beneficent hour, the lord of the mountains
deposited in his beloved the entire constituent element of Siva
by means of ecstatic contemplation.

6. The wife of the mountain, by the grace of the
goddess who had sympathetically stationed herself in the mind
of the mountain, conceived.

7. The beloved of the mountain, Mena, shone all the
more by the presence of the goddess who bore the entire uni-
verse. She appeared as if she was in a brilliant sphere.

8. Mena bore the characteristic signs of pregnancy
which almost indicated the imminent rise in pleasure of her
lord and served as the auspicious cause for the future bliss of
the gods.

9. The weakness of her body did not allow her to wear
ornaments. Her face became pale like the Lodhra flower. She
resembled the night when there are very few stars and the
moon is in a waning state. 13

10. Kissing her face, emitting the fragrance of the earth
in the course of his secret dalliance, the lord of the mountains,
was not satiated. His love increased. 14

1 1 . The lord of mountains asked Mena's friends freq-
uently — "What are the desires of Mena ? She herself does
not express them out of bashfulness. " 1S

12. Whatever product of the mountain she wished to
have in the course of her pregnancy she found brought to
her. There was nothing which he, the lord of the mountain,
could not accomplish in the heaven too.

13. Surmounting the difficulties of the early days of
pregnancy, she grew more plump in her limbs. Mena. then
shone like a tender creeper putting forth more leaves and
flowers.

14. The lord of the mountains considered his pregnant
queen like the earth with a treasure within and like the Sam!
twig with latent fire in it. 16

13. For the similarity of idea and verbal expression compare Kajj-
dasa's RaghuvarhSa- HI. 3.

14. Cf. Ibid. III. 3.
is. Cr Ibid. III. 5.
16. Ibid. III. 9.

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Sivapuraiia

15. The intelligent lord of mountains performed all the
sacred rites befitting his love for his wife, the loftiness of his
mind, the vastness of riches earned by him and the injunctions
of the Vedas.

16-17. At the proper time, he saw his wife Mena. about
to be delivered of the child, with delight, as one sees the
sky enveloped with clouds. The lord of the mountains felt
greatly rejoiced on seeing his wife of sound and auspicious
in limbs the "labour-chamber" presided over by physicians.
She felt very brilliant with the mother of the universe in her
womb.

18. In the mean time, O sage, Visnu, and other gods
as well as the sages came there and eulogised Siva who was
in the womb.

The gods said: —

19. O Goddess, be victorious, O intelligent one, O
mother of the universe, O great Goddess, O you of true rites,
prone to truth, true in three things, O truth-formed.

20. O you stationed in truth, we have sought refuge in
you. O you delighted with truth, Origin of truth, Truth of
Truth, of truthful sight.

21. O beloved of Siva, great goddess, O destroyer of
the miseries of gods, you are the mother of the three worlds,
consort of Siva, pervasive and favourably disposed to your
devotees.

22. 0 goddess of the three worlds, manifest yourself
and perform the function of the gods. O goddess,, all of us
are well protected only due to your favour.

23. Happy persons attain their happiness only from you.
Nothing shines in the three worlds without you.

Brahma said: —

24. Thus eulogising, in many ways, the great goddess
stationed in the womb, the gods returned to their abodes,
highly delighted in their minds.

25. When nine months were completed, in the tenth
month, the goddess, the mother of the universe, bore all the
states of a child in the womb in the complete form.

26. The time was good. The planets, stars and the

Rudrasarhhita

497

luminary heavenly bodies were quiet; the sky was clear and
there was brilliance in all the quarters.

27. The earth consisting of forests, villages and oceans
was very auspicious. Lotuses blossomed in lakes, rivers and
tanks.

28 O excellent sage, diverse winds gentle to the touch
blew; good men rejoiced and bad people became unhappy.

29. The gods stood in the sky and sounded big drums.
A shower of flowers fell. Excellent Gandharvas sang sweet
songs.

30. Vidyadhara women and the celestial nymphs danced
in the sky; in the heavenly region great festivities were cele-
brated by the gods and others.

31 . At that time Siva., Satl of perfect power formerly
appeared in front of Mena in her real form.

32. She was born at midnight when the constellation
MrgaSiras was in conjunction with the moon on the ninth day
in the month of Madhu (March-April) in the spring season
like the Ganga. from the moon's sphere.

33. Coming out of the belly of Mena at the proper
time in her real form, she resembled Laksmi coming out of
the ocean.

34. When she was born, Siva was glad. A slow, fra-
grant and auspicious wind blew favourably.

35. Along with the rain there was a shower of flowers.
Fires calmly glowed and the clouds rumbled.

36. At the time of her birth, riches and prosperity
flourished in the city of Himavat. All miseries perished.

37. Visnu and other gods reached there in time and
saw the mother of the universe. They were delighted and
happy.

38. They eulogised Siva the mother of the universe,
the beloved of Siva, of great illusory power, of divine
features and resident of Siva's region.

The Gods said: —

39. O great goddess, O mother of the universe, O
achiever of all accomplishments, you alone can carry out the
work of the gods. Hence we bow to you always.

40. O you favourably disposed to the devotees, do

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Sivapuraria

everything conducive to the happiness of the Gods. You
have fulfilled the desire of Mena. Now, you fulfil that of
Siva.

Brahma said : —

41. After eulogising Siva thus, Visnu and other gods
bowed to her again delightedly and returned to their abodes
praising her great divine ways.

42. O Naxada, Mena rejoiced much on seeing goddess
Uma of the splendour of the blue lotus as her daughter.

43. On seeing her divine features, the beloved of the
mountain attained perfect knowledge. After that realisation
she eulogised the supreme Goddess with very great delight.

Mind said : —

44. "Great favour has been shown by you, O Goddess,
O mother of the universe, inasmuch as you have manifested
yourself in front of me brilliantly.

45. You are the primordial one among all Energies.
O Siva, you are the mother of the three worlds. O Goddess
you are the beloved of Siva, you are great goddess eulogised
by the gods.

46. O great Goddess, be pleased. Remain in my
meditation in this form, but have the form of my daughter
in public view,"

Brahma, said : —

47. On hearing these words of Mena, the wife of the
mountain, the delighted goddess Siva replied to Mena, the
beloved of the mountain thus.

The Goddess said : —

48. "O Mena, formerly you served me excellently. I
am delighted by your devotion. I have come near you to
grant you a boon.

49. On hearing my words "Express your wish and
choose a boon" you had chosen the boon "great Goddess,
become my daughter. Do what is beneficent to the gods."

50. Accordingly granting you the boon I returned to

Rudrasarhhita

499

my abode. O beloved of the mountain, I have become your
daughter at the proper time.

51. I have assumed the divine form now, so that
you may be reminded of me. In a human form if I had
appeared, it would have put you out of knowledge about me.

52. Constantly thinking of me in the form of your
daughter, or in the divine form with love, both of you will
surely attain my region, the great goal.

53. I shall do the work of the gods showing my wonder-
fully divine sports. I shall become the wife of Siva and red-
eem good men."

Brahma said: —

54. After saying thus Siva kept quiet. Even as the
mother was watching with pleasure, she assumed the body
of a daughter by her power of illusion.

CHAPTER SEVEN

(The childhood sports of Parvati)

Brahma said: —

1. The goddess of great brilliance assumed the form of
her baby child in front of Mena and began to cry in accor-
dance with the ways of the world.

2. On account of her splendour that diffused all round
the lying-in-couch, the midnight lamps that burnt in the
lying-in-chamber were rendered dim in a trice, O sage.

3. The women in the house were extremly glad on
hearing the gentle cry of the child. In their excited flutter
and great pleasure they rushed in.

4. The superintendent of the harem immediately infor-
med the king about the birth of Parvati which was pleasant
and conducive to the work of the gods.

5. To the superintendent of the harem who brought
the news, there was nothing which the king could notgive
even including his royal white umbrella.

6. Accompanied by the chief priest and learned bran-

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Sivapurana

mins, the lord of mountains came there and saw the child
who shone in her lovely clothes.

7. The lord of mountains rejoiced on seeing the child
shining in dark splendour like that of the blue lotus.

8. All the citizens there, both men and women, rejoic-
ed much. There were great festivities. Different sorts of
musical instruments were played.

9 Auspicious songs were sung. The dancing girls
exhibited their saltatorial skill. The lord of mountains per-
formed post-natal sacred rites and made charitable gifts to
the brahmins.

10. Himavat came to the outer gate of the palace and
joined the festivities. With a delighted mind he distributed
monetary gifts to the beggars.

11. In an auspicious hour, in the company of the sages,
Himavat named his daughter Kali and assigned other plea-
sing names to her.

12. He gave charitable gifts to the brahmins out of love
and respect. Varieties of festivities were gone through with
suitable music.

13. Though he had many sons, the lord of mountain
and his wife rejoiced more on seeing Kali frequently, after
these celebrations.

14. There in the palace of the lord of mountains the
goddess Siva grew up like Gariga in the rainy season and
like the moon-light in the autumn.

15. The goddess Kali of exquisite body and comely
appearance acquired more and more splendour like the disk
of the moon acquiring more and more digits day by day.

16. The child was fondly attached to every member of
the family, Hence the kinsmen called her Parvati, a name
befitting her family. The girl had all the qualities of good
conduct and behaviour.

17. Afterwards when Kali wanted to perform a pena-
nce she was forbidden by her mother who said — "O, no (U ma) .
Hence O sage, the sweetfaced ]ady came to be called Uma
in the world.

18-19. Although he had many sons, the eyes of the moun-
tain were never satiated on seeing the child Parvati endowed
with good fortune. In the spring season there may be many

Rudrasarhhita

501

flowers in full bloom but the swarms of bees, O excellent sage,
are specially drawn to the mango blossom.

20. The mountain Himalaya was both embellished and
sanctified by his daughter like a learned man by his speech
of gramrmtical purity.

Just as a lamp in the house is praised by leaping flames
of brilliance, just as the path of the good by the Ganga., so
also the lord of mountains was respected on account of
Parvati.

22. During her childhood, the goddess played frequen-
tly on the sandy banks of the Ganga. in the middle of her
playmates with balls and dolls.

23. O sage, the goddess Siva, when the suitable time
for her education arrived learnt all the lores from a good
preceptor, with concentrated mind and great pleasure.

24. Just as the flock of swans returns to the Ganga in
the autumnal season and just as the brilliant lustre manifests
itself in the medicinal herbs during the night, so also all the
learning of the previous birth returned to Kali.

25. O sage, thus I have described one of the divine
sports of Siva. I shall narrate another one of her divine sports.
You listen to it lovingly.

CHAPTER EIGHT

{Narada-Himalaya Conversation)

Brahma said :

1. Once, induced by Siva, you went to the abode of
Himacala lovingly, you who have the knowledge of Siva and
who are the foremost among those who know the divine
sports of Siva.

2. O sage Narada, on seeing you, the lord of the
mountains bowed to you and worshipped you. He called his
daughter and asked her to fall at your feet.

3. O excellent sage, he bowed to you again. Himavat
joined, his palms in reverence and bent his head considering
it his duty and spoke to you.

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tfiva/iuraria

Himavat said : —

4. O sage Naxada, of good knowledge, O lord, fore-
most among the sons of Brahma, you are omniscient. You
are sympathetic. You are engaged in rendering help to
others.

5. Please read the horoscope of my daugther and tell
me about her good and bad fortune. Whose beloved wife
will my fortunate daughter be ?

Bramha said : —

6-7. O excellent sage, being thus requested by Hima-
vat the lord of mountains, you looked at Kali's palm and
the limbs as well. O dear, you are wise. You know many
facts. You are eloquent in speech. You then spoke.

Marada said :

8. "O Mena, O king of mountains, this daughter o
yours has all auspicious signs. Like the first digit of the
moon she will increase day by day.

9. She will delight her husband, and heighten the
glory of her parents. She will be a great chaste lady. She
will grant bliss to everyone always.

10. I see all good signs in the plam of your daughter,
O lord of mountains. There is an abnormal line also. Listen
to the indication thereof.

11. Her husband will be a naked Yogin, without any
qualities. He will be free from lust. He will have neither
mother nor father. He will be indifferent to honours. His
dress and manners will be inauspicious.

Brahma said: —

12. On hearing your words the couple thought them
true. Both Mena and Himavat were much distressed.

13. O sage, on hearing your words, and inferring that
indications referred to Siva, Parvati's joy knew no bounds.

14. Convinced that Narada's words could not be false,
Siva turned her mind and love to Siva's feet.

15. The lord of mountains who was very much grieved
in mind spoke to you, "O Narada, O sage, what is the way
out ? What shall I do ? A great misery has befallen us".

Rudrasarhhita

503

16. On hearing that, O sage, you who are eloquent
in speech, delighted Himavat by your sweet words of auspi-
cious import and spoke to console him.

Marada said : —

17. "O lord of mountains, listen to my words with
affability. They are true. They cannot be false. The lines
in the palm are the lines of Brahma. They cannot be un-
true.

18. O lord of mountains, there is no doubt that her
husband will be such a person. You now hear what you have
to do whereby you will be happy.

19. There is a bridegroom like that. He is lord Siva
who has sportively assumed a physical form. In Him all bad
characteristics are equal to good characteristics.

20.1n a majestic person a defect does not produce
misery. It may well cause misery in a non-majestic person.
Sun, fire and Ganga may be cited as examples.

21. Hence you give your daughter in marriage to Siva.
That will be a wise step. Lord Siva who is the sole lord,
unchanging and without any aberration is worthy of being
resorted to.

22. By performing penance, Siva can be propitiated
quickly and He will accept her undoubtedly.

23. In every respect, Siva, the lord of all, is the most
suitable person. He cannot be slain even by thunderbolts.
He can render Brahma and others distressed." 17

24. O dear sage, after saying this you continued. You
delighted him with auspicious words. You spoke to the king
of the mountains.

25. "O lord of mountains, she will be the wife of Siva
and will remain his favourite always. She will be a chaste
lady of good rites. She will increase the pleasure of her
parents.

26. Performing a penance she will fascinate Siva's
mind towards herself. He too will marry none else except
her.

17. Our translation is based on the following emended text :

504

Sivapurifya

27. A love akin to this pair will not be found any-
where. Never in the past was it seen nor will it occur in
future. Nor it is current now.

28. O best of mountains, the two will fulfil the work
of the gods. They will resuscitate those who have breathed
their last.

29. O lord of mountains, Siva will become Ardhana-
risVara (half male and half female ), with your daughter forming
half the part of your body. Their meeting once again will be
delightful.

30. After propitiating lord Siva, the lord of all, by the
power of her penance, your daughter will take away half
the body of Siva.

31. By propitating Siva with her penance she will
acquire the lustre of gold and will be known as Svarnagaurl.
Your daughter will be as fair-complexioned as lightning.

32. This girl will be famous in the name of Gauri.
She will deserve the respect of Visnu, Brahma and the
other Gods,

33. O excellent mountain, you shall not give her to
anyone else. This is a secret of the gods. This shall not
be revealed to any one else.

34. O celestial sage, Narada, on hearing these words
that you spoke O, sage, the eloquent Himavat spoke thus:

Himcwat said: —

35. O sage Narada, O intelligent one, I have one sub-
mission to make. Please listen to it lovingly and make us
delightful.

36. It is heard that the great God abhors all attach-
ments. He has perfect self-control. He is ever busy in «-
penance and is out of reach of even the Gods.

37. O celestial sage, He is in the path of meditation.
How can He withdraw His mind from the supreme
Brahman ? I have a great doubt in this respect.

38-39. The supreme Brahman is great and imperishable.
It is like the streak of a lamp. It is termed Sadasiva. It is
without aberration. It is beyond Brahma. . It is both full

Rudrasarhhitd

505

and devoid of qualities. It has no special traits, no desires.
It sees within 18 and not without.

40. O sage, from, the Kinnaras who come here, such
are the things heard about Him. Can it be untrue ?

41. This is also heard that Siva had entered into a
contract with the lady Sati. Listen to what I say ?

42. "O Sati, Daksayanl, my beloved, I shall not take
the hand of any woman except you as my wife. This is the
truth that I say."

43. This was the agreement that He made with Sati
formerly. She is dead. How then will He take another
woman to be His wife.

Brahma said: —

44. After saying these words, the lord of mountains
kept quiet in your presence. O celestial sage, on hearing
that, you spoke words that revealed the truth.

JVdrada said: —

45. "O lord of mountains, of great intellect, you need
not worry. This daughter of yours, Parvati, was formerly the
daughter of Daksa.

46. Sati was her auspicious name. Sati who was
Dak§a's daughter became Rudra's wife.

47. Being dishonoured at the sacrifice of her father,
and being the witness of Siva's dishonour she was furious
and she cast off her body.

48. She herself is born in your house as Parvati.
There is no doubt that she will become Siva's wife."

Brahma said : —

49-50. O sage, all these details you mentioned to the
lord of mountains. You told the previous history of Parvati
that increased her pleasure and on hearing which, the lord of
mountains, his wife and children were freed from all sus-
picions.

51. On hearing the story from Narada, Parvati bqnt
1 8. We have adopted the reading 3T^T: for

506

Sivapurana

down her head in bashfulness but her smile heightened the
beauty of her face.

52. On hearing the story, the lord of mountains strok-
ed her fondly, kissed her on the head and placed her on his
seat.

53. O sage, on seeing her seated there you spoke
again delighting the lord of mountains, Menaka. and her
sons.

54-55. "O king of mountains, she will have a better
throne than this, diva's thigh will be her permanent abode.
On getting the seat on the thigh of Siva your daughter will
go to the world where no eye or mind can reach."

Brahma said : —

56. O Narada, after saying this to the lord of mount-
ains, you went to heaven immediately. The lord of mountains
too, whose mind was filled with joy, returned to his palace
endowed with all riches.

CHAPTER NINE

{The parents advise Parvati to propitiate Siva. §iva appears
before Parvati in dream)

Narada said: —

1. O Brahma, O dear one, O foremost among the
devotees of Siva, O intelligent one, taking pity on me you
have narrated a wonderful story to me and have increased
my pleasure thereby.

2. O Brahma, when I, of divine vision, had gone to
my abode what happened thereafter ? Please tell me now.

Brahma said: —

3. After you had gone to heaven, some time passed.
Once Mena approached the lord of mountains and bowed
to him.

4. After waiting there for some time with humility, the

Rudrasamkita

507

beloved of the mountain addressed her lord; the chaste lady
who loved her daughter as ardently as her own life spoke
to the lord of mountains thus.

Mend said : —

5. As but is natural to women, the words of the sage
have not been understood by me well. (I think it is better)
that you perform the marriage of our daughter with a hand-
some bridegroom.

6. Let the bridegroom of Parvati be bora of a good
family endowed with good characteristic signs. In every res-
pect that marriage will yield an unprecedented happiness.

7. Obeisance to you. Do everything necessary to make
our daughter, as beloved to us as our own lives, very happy
and delighted after being united with a good bridegroom.

Brahma, said : —

8. After saying this, with tears in her eyes Mena fell
at the feet of her husband. Raising her, the lord of moun-
tains, the most excellent among intelligent people, made a
true statement.

Himacala said: — ' •

9. O gentle lady Menaka, listen. I shall tell you the
truth. Do not be under false impressions. The sage's state-
ment will never be false.

10. If you feel affectionate towards your daughter,
zealously instruct your daughter. Let her perform the penance
with Siva as the object, devotedly and steadily.

11. If Siva is delighted, O Menaka, He will marry her.
Everything shall be auspicious. The inauspicious features
indicated by Narada will perish.

12. All inauspicious things are auspicious in Sadas"iva.
Hence immediately teach your daughter to hasten to perform
the penance for attaining Siva.

Brahma said : —

13. On hearing these words of the lord of mountains,
Mena was greatly delighted. She approached her daughter to
advise her to take interest in penance.

508

Sivapurano

14. On seeing the tender limbs of her daughter, Menaka
was greatly distressed. Her eyes welled up in tears immediately.

15. The beloved of the lord of mountains was una-
ble to advise her daughter to perform penance. Parvati
understood the implied wish of her mother quickly.

16. Then the omniscient supreme goddess Parvati
immediately spoke to her mother after consoling her again
and again.

Parvati said : —

17. O mother, of great intelligence, listen in the early
dawn to-day. At night I had a dream I shall tell you. Be
pleased.

18. A brahmin sage advised me lovingly and compass-
ionately to perform the penance of Siva, O mother.

Brahma said : —

19. On hearing that, Menaka called her husband there
and told him the dream as seen by her daughter.

20. After hearing the dream of his daughter from
Menaka, the lord of the mountains was pleased and he spoke
thus to his wife.

The lord of the mountains said : —

21. O dear, at the end of the latter half of the night,
I too had a dream. Please listen to it lovingly. I shall zeal-
ously explain it.

22. A great saint of exquisite limbs, as mentioned by
Narada, arrived near my city with very great pleasure in
order to perform penance there.

, 23. Delighted much I took my daughter there with me.
He was recognised as Lord Siva, the bridegroom as mentioned
by Narada

24. Advising our daughter to render service to that
saint I requested him to approve of it but He didn't.

25. A great discussion took place (between her and Siva
based on Sankhya and Vedanta. 10 Thereafter at His bidding
my daughter stayed there.

19. Compare a dialogue between Siva and Parvati who represent
the different phases and aspects of Purusa and Prakrti respectively. Cf.
Ch. 13 of this section.

Rudrasathhita

26. Concealing her love in the heart she served Him
with devotion. This is the dream I had, O bright-faced
lady and I have told you all.

27. Hence, dear Mena, for some time the result of
this has to be watched. Certainly know this to be the
proper step for me.

Brahma said : —

28. O excellent sage, the lord of the mountains having
thus explained to Menaka, both of them remained watching
its result, pure in mind.

29-30. When a few days passed by, lord Siva, the
goal of saintly men, the cause of protection and enjoyment
wandering here and there in his flutter and excitement due
to the separation from Sati, came there with pleasure
accompanied by a few of his Ganas, in order to perform
penance. The lord was completely agitated due to Sati's love
and separation from her.

31. He performed his penance there. Parvati engaged
herself in His service continuously accompanied by two of
her maids.

32. Although the lord Siva was hit and wounded by
the arrows of Kama who was sent thither by the gods to
enchant Him, He was not swayed at all.

33. Burning Kama there by His fiery eye, on remem-
bering my words, the lord became angry with me and
vanished from the scene.

34. After sometime, Lord Siva quelled the pride of
Parvati but he was propitiated by her again performing great
penance.

35. Following the conventions of the world, the lord
married Parvati after being sponsored by Visnu. Then
everything auspicious ensued.

36. O dear, thus the story of the lord, the -divine
story of' Siva, has been narrated in brief. What is it that
you wish to hear again ?

510

Sivapur&iia

CHAPTER TEN

{Mars is born and is raised to the status of a Planet by
Siva's grace)

Narada said : —

1. O Brahma, the fortunate disciple of Visnu, O lord,
foremost among the devotees of Siva, please narrate the
divine sport of Siva in detail to me.

2. What did Siva, separated from Sati, do ? When
did He go to the excellent ridge of the Himavat to perform
penance ?

3. How did the discussion between Siva and Siva
take place ? How did Parvati attain Siva by performing
penance ?

4. O Brahma, these and other things, connected with
the divine life of Siva, pleasing and auspicious, you kindly
narrate.

Suta said : —

5. On hearing this inquiry of Narada, Brahma, the
excellent lord of the worlds, remembered the lotus-like feet
of Siva and spoke.

Brahma said : —

6. O celestial sage, most excellent among the devotees
of Siva, listen to His glory that sanctifies, renders every-
thing auspicious and increases devotion.

7. Returning to His mountain, Siva in his excitement
caused by his separation from his beloved, remembered Sati,
who was dearer to Him than his very life.

8. Addressing His Ganas, He bewailed her and narrated
her good qualities heightening love. In this way He showed
the way of the world to the people.

9'. Abandoning the polished manners of a householder,
He cast off his dress and roamed about all the worlds, clever
in divine sports that He was.

10-11. Not seeing her anywhere, the pangs of his
separation from Sati increasing, Siva, the benefactor of His
devotees, returned to His mountain and entered into trance

Rudrasatfifntd

511

for the destruction of misery. Thereupon He saw His
imperishable real form.

12. Thus Siva remained for a long time eliminating
the three attributes, and unaffected by aberrations. The lord
Himself, the controller of illusion remained in the state of
the Supreme Brahman.

13. Then He gave up trance. Many years elapsed.
What happened thereafter, I shall now recount to you.

14. The drops of sweat caused by exhaustion fell on
the Earth from the lord's forehead and took the shape of a
child immediately.

15. O sage, the child was tawny-coloured and had
four arms. He was comely in features. His brilliance was
supermundane and unbearable to others.

16. Like a common child he cried in front of the Great
lord who was engaged in worldly activities.

17. Afraid of Siva, the Earth pondered deeply over
it and appeared before him in the guise of a good lady.

18. She lifted up the child immediately and held him
to her chest. Lovingly she suckled the child with her
excellent breast milk that flowed over her body.

19. She kissed the child's face lovingly and petted
him smilingly. In the absence of SatI she herself acted as
his mother in the interest of lord Siva.

20. Siva knew that she was the Earth. Siva, the cause
of protection and enjoyment, the immanent soul, on seeing
her activities became contented and eagerly said to her
laughingly.

21. "O Earth, you are blessed. Rear this child of
mine lovingly, born of my glittering drops of sweat over you.

22. Although the child is born of the sweat of my
body, O Earth, he will be famous in the world after your
name. He will be a bestower of pleasures and will be free
from the three distresses always.

23. This boy of yours will be a bestower of lands and
will have good qualities. He will make me too happy.
Accept him with pleasure".

Brahma said : —

24. After saying this He stopped. He was a bit

£ivapuraii&

relieved of His pangs of separation. Siva, free from aberra-
tions, and a lover of good men, acted thus only for following
the worldly conventions.

25. The Earth too, as Siva bade her, returned to her
abode along with the child. She was extremely happy.

26. The child acquired the name Bhauma (son of the
Earth) . He attained youth immediately. For a long time
he worshipped lord Siva at Kasl.

27. By the grace of lord Siva, the son of the Earth,
acquired the status of a planet. He went to the heavenly
sphere beyond the region of Venus.

28. O sage, thus I have told you the story of Siva
and His separation from Satl. Now listen to the story of
His performance of penance.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

{Siva and Himavat meet together)

Brahma said : —

1-2. O Narada, the daughter of the mountain, honoured
in the three worlds, was bf ought up in the palace of Himacala.
When she was eight years old, Siva distressed by Sati's
separation came to know of her birth. Keeping her wonder-
ful memory within his heart He rejoiced much.

3. In the meantime, following the conventions of the
world, Siva wished to perform penance in order to con-
centrate his mind properly.

4-5. Taking some important Ganas of quiet nature,
Nandin and others, with Him, He went to the excellent
Himalayan ridge — Gangavatara, O sage, where the great
holy river Gaiiga flowed from Brahmapura 20 formerly, in order
to quell sins*

20. Cunningham (A. G. P. 299) identifies Brahmapura (the Po-lo-
ki-mo-pu-Io of Hwen Thsang : Waters, I. P. 339) with the capital city
Vairatapattana of the hilly country lying between the Alakananda and the
Karnali rivers. The territory covered the districts of Garhwal and Kumaon
(Cf. Br. S. ch. 14 and G.D. P. 40) and was stretched within 667 miles
in circuit.

Rudrasatfihita

513

6-7. Staying there, Siva of full self-control, started
His activities of penance. With full concentration and alert-
ness He thought on His own Self, the cause of mental know-
ledge, the eternal, the luminous, free from affliction, identi-
cal with the universe, consciousness and Bliss, without a second
and having no support.

8-9. When Siva began His meditation, the Pramathas
also began their meditation as well as some Ganas, Nandin,
Bhrngi etc Some of the Ganas rendered service to Siva, the
Supreme Self. Some of them became His gatekeepers. They
observed silence and did not shout.

10. In the meantime on hearing that Siva had come
to Ausadhiprastha 21 , the" mountain Himavat too went there.

1 1 . Accompanied by his attendants, the lord of thei
mountains bowed to the lord Siva, worshipped Him with
pleasure and eulogised Him with palms joined in reverence.

Lord Himavat said: —

12. O great god, lord of the gods, O lord Siva, the
three worlds are sustained by you alone who are lord of the
worlds.

13. Obeisance to Thee, O lord of gods, obeisance to the
one who has assumed the form of a Yogin, obeisance to Thee
that art possessed and devoid of attributes and obeisance" to
Thee who art sportive.

14. O Siva, obeisance to the resident of Kaillsa,
obeisance to one who wanders all over the worlds, obeisance
to thee the great lord, to the one indulging in divine sports,
obeisdnce to the trident-holder.

15. O lord, of complete and perfect qualities, obeisance
to Thee, devoid of aberrations. Obeisance to Thee without
aspirations. Obeisance to Thee without desires. Obeisance to
the bold one, to the great soul.

16. O overlord of the three attributes, O lord of
delusion, favourably disposed towards the people, obeiSaftce
unto you, who grant inner pleasures of the soul. Obeisance
to Brahman, the great soul.

17. Obeis'ance to Thee, worthy of being served by Visnu

Hi. See Note No. io

514

SiuJjWrSria

Brahma and others; obeisance to Thee of the form of Visnu
and Brahma; obeisance to Thee, the creator of Visnu and
Brahma, obeisance to Thee O one favourably disposed to the
devotees.

18. O one engaged in penance, O one the
venue of penance; obeisance to Thee the bestower of
fruits of penance; obeisance to Thee who lovest penance;
obeisance to Thee of the form of Brahman and quiescent.

19. Obeisance to Thee who lay down the principles of
dealings and worldly convenlions; obeisance to the great
Siva full of attributes; obeisance to Thee the great soul.

20. O great lord, your divine sports are
incomprehensible. They bestow happiness on saintly men.
Your nature is subservient to the devotees and you are under
their control. You are the performer of all activities.

21. O lord, you have come here because my fortune
is in its ascendancy. You have been described as a bestower
of favours to the distressed. You have put me under your
patronage and protection.

22. Today my life has borne fruit, in fact everything
connected with me has become fruitful since you have come
here.

23. Knowing me to be your slave of great composure,
O great lord, you can freely command me. With my mind
not fascinated by other things I shall serve you with great
pleasure.

Brahma taid : —

24. On hearing these words of the lord of mountains,
lord Siva slightly opened his eyes and cast a glance on the
lord of mountains who was accompanied by his attendants.

25. On seeing the lord of mountains with his fol-
lowers, the bull-bannered god Siva, the lord of the universe
permanently engaged in meditation and Yogic practice said
smilingly.

Lord Siva said: —

26. I have come to perform penance in secret on your
top. Make arrangements so that none should be able to come
near me.

Rudrasarhhita

515

27. You are a noble soul, the abode of penance and
permanent residence of sages, gods, demons and other great
men.

28. You are the permanent residence of brahmins and
others; you are always sanctified by Ganga; you render help
to others and you are the lord and king of all mountains.

29. O king of mountains, delighted in resorting to you
and controlling my senses and mind I am going to perform
penance here at Gangavatarana. aa

30. O lord of mountains, O best of mountains, now
put forth all endeavour whereby my penance can be con-
ducted without obstacles.

31. O excellent Mountain, this alone is the greatest
service that you can render. Please arrange for it with
due effort. Please return to your abode with your mind
full of pleasure.

Brahma said : —

32. After saying this, the lord of the worlds, the cause
of protection and enjoyment kept silent. The lord of the
mountains then spoke to Siva with affection.

Himdcala said : —

33. O great lord of the universe, I have come myself
and worshipped you. What shall I ask you who stay in my
own kingdom?

34. O great lord, you cannot be attained by great
penance even by the gods who put forth great efforts. But
you yourself have come here.

35. There is none more fortunate than me; there is
none more meritorious than me, since you have come to
perform penance on my summit.

36. O great lord, I consider myself greater than the
god of gods. You have come here with your Ganas and
made me blessed.

37. O lord of gods, independently and without any

22. It is a sacred place celebrated in the Matsya and Vayu
Puranas where the river Gariga emerges from the Vindu Sarovara through
visible outlets and subterranean channels.

516

Sivaputana

obstacles perform your great penance. O lord, I am your
slave always. I shall do all service to you.

Brahma said : —

38- After saying this, the lord of the mountains
returned at once to his abode and enthusiastically narrated
everything to his beloved wife.

39. O Narada, calling together all his attendants with
the members of their families, the lord of the mountains
said emphatically.

Himdcala said : —

40. From now onwards, none of you shall go to the
ridge of mine, called Garigavatarana. This is my command.
I am telling you the truth.

41. If anyone of you goes there I shall punish that
rogue particularly. This is the truth I am speaking.

42. O sage, after thus checking all of his attendants,
the mountain made other arrangements also. I now tell you
all about the same.

CHAPTER TWELVE

(Siva-Himavat dialogue)

Brahma said

1 . Then, the delighted lord of the mountains, took some
fresh flowers and fruits with him and approached Siva along
with his daughter.

2. Approaching the lord of the three worlds, engaged
in meditation and bowing to Him he mentally dedicated to
Him, his wonderful daughter.

3. Placing the fruits and flowers in front of Him and
making his daughter stand before Him, the lord of the
mountains spoke to Siva.

Himdcala said: —

4. O lord, my daughter who is eager to serve you, the

Rudfasarhhita

517

moon-crested lord, I have brought here with a desire to
propitiate you.

5. Let her serve you, the benefactor, for ever, along
with two of her maids. O lord, if you wish to bless me,
please permit her.

Brahma said : —

6-10. Then Siva looked at her in the first flush of her
youth. Her complexion resembled the full blown blue lotus
petals. Her face appeared as the full moon. Her auspici-
ous dress and features were the repositories of all graceful
charms. Her neck had the shape of the conchshell. Her
eyes were wide and her ears shone exquisitely. On either
side, her long-rounded arms resembling a lotus-stalk shone
beautifully. Her two breasts resembling lotus-buds were stout,
plump and firm. Her waist was slender and the curly locks
of her hair shone well. Her feet resembled the land-lotus and
were comely in appearance. She was competent to shake
the minds of even the sages deeply engrossed in meditation,
even at the very sight. She was a crest-jewel of all the
maidens in the world.

11-12. On seeing her in that exquisite form as increased
the pleasure and love of even those who meditate, the great
Yogin Siva closed His eyes immediately and meditated upon
His real form, the great principle that is beyond the three
attributes and is imperishable.

13-14. On seeing Siva the lord of all, the chief of
those devoted to penance, the lord with the moon as his
ornament, who can be known through spiritual insight
and who was sitting in the meditative posture closing His
eyes, Himacala saluted Him again. Though he was not
disheartened, he entertained some doubts. Thus he, the lord
of mountains, foremost of the eloquecit, spoke to Siva, the
sole kinsman of the universe,

Himacala said: — •

15. O great lord of the gods, O Siva, the merciful, O
lord, open your eyes and look at me who have sought refuge
in you.

16. O Siva, O great lord, the delighter of the waiv&m,

518

Sivapurana

0 great God, I bow to you who destroy all adversities.

17. O lord of gods, the Vedas and the sacred lore do
not know you entirely. Your greatness is beyond the sphere
of words and minds, inexpressible by means of words and
incomprehensible.

18. Not to speak of others, even the Vedas describe
you with awe and timidity not positively but negating what
you are not.

19. Securing your grace through devotion, many devot-
ees become acquainted with you. Seeking refuge in you they
get correct knowledge about your real self.

20. Please listen to my entreaty with a long heart.

1 am your slave. O dear lord, in humility I shall explain
the same to you.

21. O great god Siva, by your favour I feel most fort-
unate. O lord, consider me your slave and be sympathetic
towards me. Obeisance to you.

22. O lord, I shall be visiting you daily along with
my daughter. O lord, be pleased to command me accord-
ingly.

Brahma said: —

23. On hearing his words, the great lord of the gods
broke His meditation, opened His eyes, thought a little
and spoke.

Lord Sina said: —

24. "O mountain, you shall come every day to see me,
leaving your daughter in your abode. Otherwise I cannot be
seen"

Brahma said : —

25. On hearing the words of Siva in that view, the
father of Siva the mountain, bowed his head and replied to
Siva.

Himacala said: —

26. "Let this be kindly mentioned why this girl cannot
accompany me here. Is she unworthy of your service ? I do
not know the reason thereof."

Rudrasarhhita

519

Brahmd. said: —

27. Particularly pointing out trie worldly conduct of
fake ascetics, the bull-bannered god Siva laughingly spoke to
the mountain.

Siva said: —

28. This auspicious slender-bodied maiden of comely
hips and moon-like face should not be brought near me. I
forbid you again and again.

29. A woman is a phase of illusion. As the scholars
who have mastered the Vedas say particularly, a young damsel
is a hindrance to ascetics.

30. O mountain, I am an ascetic, a yogin, never affected
by illusion. Of what avail is a woman thrust on me ?

31. O friend resorted to by great ascetics, you shall
not say so again, since you are an adept in Vedic religion,
a scholar and one foremost among the wise.

32. O mountain, by contact with a woman, worldliness
springs up ; non-attachment perishes and the virtuous penance
is destroyed.

33. Hence, O mountain, no ascetic shall have any truck
with women. A woman is the root of all worldly attachments.
She destroys all wisdom and detachment together.

Brahma said: —

34. Speaking these -and many other similar things to
the lord of mountains, lord Siva the great Yogin, stopped.

35. On hearing these ruthless words of Siva free from
sickness and desire, the father of Parvati became nervous, O
celestial sage, and a little agitated. But he kept quiet.

36. On hearing the words of the ascetic and finding her
father, the lord of the mountains, frightened, Parvati bowed
to Siva and spoke these words clearly.

520

Sivapurarfa

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

(Siva-Parvati dialogue)

Parvati said: —

1 . O Yogin, O lord, wise and clever, please listen to
the reply to what you, as an ascetic, said to the lord of
mountains.

2. O Siva, you perform this great penance because you
possess the energy of penance. Your intellect is inclined to
perform penance because you are a noble soul.

3. That energy is the Prakrti, the cause of all activities.
Everything is created, sustained and destroyed by it.

4. O lord, please ponder over who you are and who
this subtle Prakrti is. Without Prakrti how can the great
lord of the phallic form exist ?

5. You are worthy of the worship, respect and
meditation of all living beings for ever, thanks to Prakrti.
Thinking of this in your heart, please rep ly.

Brahma said: —

6- On hearipg these words of Parvati, the great lord
engaged in the causation of great enjoyment and protection
became delighted. He laughed and said.

The great lord said; —

7. I am destroying the Prakrti with my great penance.
I remain in reality without Prakrti.

8- Indeed Prakrti should not be taken in by good
people. They should remain unaffected eschewing all worldly
conduct.

Brahma said: —

9. O dear one, this was said by Siva in accordance
with worldly conventions and dealings. Parvati thereupon
laughed to herself and spoke these sweet words.

Parvati said . —

10. O Yogin, O lord Siva, based on what you said

Rudrasamhitd

521

how can that Prakrti cease to exist and how can you
be considered beyond that Prakrti ?

1 1 . You shall ponder over this and say with reference
to the facts as they are. All these (the universe etc) are
bound by Prakrti continuously.

12. Hence you shall not say anything, not do any-
thing. Know that speaking, doing etc. is a Prakrta activity.

13. What you hear, what you eat, what you see and
what you do — all these are (essentially) the activities of
Prakrti. To say that it is unreal is meaningless.

14. O lord, if you are greater than Prakrti, wherefore
do you perform penance, O Siva, now, on this mountain
Himavat.

15. O Siva, you have been swallowed by • Prakrti,
you do not know your own situation. O lord, if you do
not know your own situation why do you perform penance ?

16. O yogin, what have I to do with an argument
with you ? Scholars say that without perception inference
has no authority at all.

17. As long as the embodied beings remain the objects
of the sense-organs, everything is Prakrta. Wise men
consider it so.

18. O lord of ascetics, a longwinded talk is of no
avail. Listen to my emphatic statement. I am Prakrti
and you are Purusa. This is the truth. There is no
doubt about it.

19. With my blessings you become qualitative and
embodied. Without me, you are attributeless and incompe-
tent to perform any activity.

20. Being always subservient to Prakrti you per-
form all activities. Self-controlled, free from aberrations and
untainted by me how can you perform them ?

21. If you are really superior to Prakr'i, if what
you say is true, you need not be afraid to be near me, O
Siva.

Brahma said: —

22. On hearing these words of Parvati based on the
Sarhkhya system, Siva replied to her, upholding the Vedantin's
point of view.

522

Sivapurana

Lord Siva said: —

23. O Parvati, O upholder of the Sarhkhya system,
if you say so, O sweet-voiced lady, you render me unfor-
bidden service every day,

24. If I am the Brahman, the supreme lord, unsullied
by illusion, comprehensible through spiritual knowledge and
the master of illusion what will you do then ?

Brahma said : —

25. Having spoken to Parvati thus, the lord, the
conciliator and the blesser of the devotees spoke to the
mountain thus.

Siva said : —

26. O lord of mountains, here itself on your beautiful
excellent ridge, I shall perform my penance showing to the
world my real blissful form and nature.

27. O lord of mountains, permission shall be given to
me to perform penance. Without your permission it is not
possible for me (or any one else) to perform any penance
here.

Brahma said : —

28. On hearing these words of Siva, the lord of gods,
Himavat bowed to Siva and said.

Himavat said : —

29. The entire universe consisting of gods, Asuras
and human beings, is yours. O great god, though insigni-
ficant, I blabber something to you.

Brahma said: —

30. Thus addressed by Himavat, Siva, the benefactor
of the worlds, laughingly permitted him to go.

31. Permitted by Siva, Himavat returned to his abode
along with Parvati. He wanted to visit Him daily.

32. Even without her father but accompanied by her
maids, Parvati approached Siva everyday for serving Him
with devotion.

33. O dear, at the bidding of lord Siva, none of the

Rudrasarhhita

523

Ganas, Nandisvara and others, purely carrying out the orders
of Siva, prevented her.

34. The discourse of Siva and Siva who represented the
principles of Sarhkhya and Vedanta and who, if thoughtfully
considerd, are not different from each other, was very happy
and pleasing for ever.

35. At the request of the lord of mountains, Siva permi-
tted Parvati to remain with Him being true to His words
though with all gravity and seriousness.

36. He, the lord of individual souls, said to Parvati in
the company of her maids — "You can serve me everyday
You can go (as you please) . You can stay here fearlessly."

37. Saying this, He accepted the goddess in his service,
Siva is free from aberrations. He is a great Yogin, the lord
who indulges in different kinds of divine sports,

38. This is the supreme courage of great ascetics poss-
essed of fortitude that though surrounded by obstacles they are
not overpowered by them.

39. Then, the lord of mountains, returned to his city
and rejoiced in the company of his wife, the sages and
attendants.

40. Siva mentioned the Yoga of meditation on the
great Atman with His mind freed from obstacles.

41. Parvati, along with her maids, continued her daily
service to the moon-crested lord, coming and going without
any hindrance.

42. She washed Siva's feet and drank that holy water.
With a cloth heated in fire she wiped his body.

43. After worshipping Him with sixteen types of offer-
ings duly, and bowing to Him repeatedly she used to return
to her father's abode.

44. O excellent sage, a long time elapsed as she conti-
nued her service to Him who was engrossed in meditation.

45. Sometimes accompanied by her maids, she sang
exquisite songs of good note that increased love in the hermi-
tage of Siva.

46. Sometimes she brought KuSa grass, flowers and sac-
rificial twigs. Sometimes, assisted by her maids, she scubbed
and cleaned the place.

47. Sometimes she stayed in the house of the moon-cre-

524

Sivapurai}0,

scent lord, pure and holy. Sometimes she used to gaze at the
lord lovingly and with surprise.

48-49 In the course of his penance sometimes the lord of
the goblins thought about her as free from attachment. But
as she was in her physical form He did not take her as His
wife though she was near Him, though she was endowed
with every feature of beauty, though she was capable of
deluding even the sages.

50. On seeing her with perfect control over her sense-
organs and engrossed in serving Him always, the lord merci-
fully thought.

51. "I shall take her only when the last seed of ego
goes away from her; when she herself performs a penance."

52. Thinking thus, the lord of the Bhiitas reverted to
meditation. The lord who could indulge in great sports bec-
ame a great Yogin.

53. O sage, when Siva, the great Atman, sank into
meditation, no other thought entered His mind.

54. As for parvati, she served Him everyday with great
devotion, always thinking on the form of that Great Soul.

55. Siva who was engrossed in meditation saw her every
day in full composure. Forgetting His previous thoughts
about her, He did not see her although He saw her.

56. In the mean time Indra, other gods and the sages
eagerly sent Kama there at the bidding of Brahma.

57. They had been harassed by the demon Taraka. the
demon of great strength. Hence they wanted to unite Parvati
and Siva in love.

58. After reaching there Kama tried all his tricks but
Siva was not at all agitated. He reduced Kama to ashes.

59. O sage, Parvati too was divested of her ego. At
his bidding she performed a penance and obtained Him as
her husband.

60. Parvati and Siva were very happy. Engrossed in
helping others they carried out the work of the gods.

Rudrasathhita

525

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

(The Birth of Taraka and Vajranga and their Penance)
Narada said: —

1 . O Brahma, great devotee of Siva and disciple of
Visnu, this great story of Siva and Siva has been narrated
very well by you.

2. Who was this Taraka demon, O Brahma, by whom
the gods were harassed. Whose son was he ? Narrate his
story with reference to Siva.

3. How did Siva of full control reduce Kama to
ashes ? Please narrate that too with pleasure. The story
of the lord is indeed wonderful.

4. How did Siva perform the severe penance for the
sake of happiness ? How did the primordial energy who is
greater than the universe secure Siva as her husband ?

5. O great scholar, narrate all these complete in
every detail to me, your son, who has dedicated his soul to
Siva and who has developed full faith in Him.

Brahma said: —

6. O celestial sage, of great intellect, O foremost of
my sons, whose sacred rites are laudable, I explain the entire
story after thinking on Siva. Listen.

7. O Narada, first of all, you hear the birth of Taraka
himself, to secure whose death great effort was made by the
gods depending on Siva.

8. My son Marlci begot Kasyapa who married thir-
teen daughters of Daksa.

9. The eldest of them Diti bore two sons: Hiranya-
kasipu the elder and Hiranyaksa the younger.

10. When these two began to harass the gods, Visnu
assumed the forms of Man-lion and Boar and killed them.
Then the gods became fearless and happy.

1 1 . The distressed Diti sought refuge in Kagyapa and
and serving him with devotion and observing the sacred rites
she conceived.

12. On coming to know of it, Indra entered her womb
forcibly and cut it off many a time with his thunderbolt.

48054

526

Sivapurfiria

1 3. By the power of her sacred rites, the child in the
womb did not die as she was sleeping at that time, by a
stroke of good luck. They were cut into seven pieces and
so she had seven sons.

14. These sons became gods by the name of Maruts.
They all went to heaven along with Indra and were taken
as his own attendants by the king of gods.

15. Diti resorted again to her husband repenting for
her action. She made the sage pleased by means of great
service.

Kafyapa said: —

16. Be pure and perform penance for ten thousand
years of Brahma. When it is completed you will have a son.

17. O sage, the penance was completed by Diti who
performed it with faith. Thereafter from him she conceived
and delivered of a son.

18. That son of Diti named Vajranga (of adamantine
limbs) was on a par with the gods. Befitting his name, his
body was strong and powerful even from his very birth.

19. At the bidding of his mother, he immediately
abducted Indra, the lord of gods, the other gods and punished
them in various ways.

20. Seeing the distress of Indra and others, Diti became
very happy. Indra and other gods became miserable due
to their own actions.

21. Always engaged in the welfare of the gods, I went
there accompanied by Kasyapa. Employing gentle and
peaceful words I got the gods released.

22. Releasing the gods with respect, Vajranga, a
great devotee of Siva, was delighted in his heart, and he of
pure soul, without any aberration, spoke.

Vajranga said: —

23. In order to achieve his interest, Indra killed the
foetus of my mother. He has now tasted the fruit thereof.
Well may he rule over his kingdom.

24. O Brahma, I did this only at the bidding of my
mother. I have no desire for the enjoyments of any one of
the worlds.

ttudrasarhhitd

54?

25. O Brahma, foremost of those who know the Vedas,
tell me the essence of real philosophy whereby I can ever
remain happy, pleased in heart and free from aberrations.

26. On hearing that, O sage, I said — "Sattvika feelings
constitute the essence of real philosophy. I shall lovingly
create an exquisite lady."

27. After offering her who was named Varangi, to
that son of Diti, I went to my abode in great delight. So
also Kasyapa, his father.

28. Thereafter the demon eschewed his diabolical
feelings and resorted to sublime thoughts. Since he was free
from fiendish feelings he became happy.

29. But no sublime feeling entered in the heart of
Varangi. With chastity and faith she served her husband
lovingly in diverse ways.

30. Her husband Vajranga of great lordly status was
glad very soon on account of her service . He then spoke
thus: —

Vajranga said : —

31. O beloved, what do you wish ? What is it that
you cherish in your mind ? On hearing that, she bowed to
her husband and revealed her desire.

Varangi said: —

32. "O my good husband, if you are so pleased grant
me a powerful son who will conquer three worlds and
cause misery to Visnu."

Brahma said : —

33. On hearing the words of his beloved, he was
disagreeably surprised and vexed. He was free from in-
imical thoughts. With perfect wisdom and Sattvika feelings
in his heart he said : —

34. My beloved wishes enmity with the gods. It does
not appeal to me. What shall I do ? Where shall I go ?
How can my vow be preserved from destruction ?

35. If my wife's wishes are fulfilled, the three worlds
will be much distressed, so too the gods and the sages.

36. If my beloved's desires are not fulfilled, I am sure

528

Sivapurdna

to be cast into hell. In either case righteousness will be lost.
This is what we have heard.

37. O sage, thus Vajranga whirled a lot in a dilemma.
Intelligently he considered the corresponding strength and
weakness of both the alternatives.

38. O sage, as willed by Siva, though intelligent the
king of demons agreed to the proposal. He told his wife
"So be it."

39. For that purpose he performed another very diffi-
cult penance with great zeal with me as the object of
worship, for number of years.

40. On seeing the great penance I went to him for
granting the boon. With a delighted mind I told him
"speak out the boon you wish to have."

41. On seeing me in the firmament in the pleasant
mood he worshipped and eulogised me as well as craved
for the boon as desired by his wife.

Vajranga said : —

42. O lord, give me a son who will be carrying out
what is beneficent to his mother, who will be strong, valorous
and efficient, who will be a storehouse of penance.

Brahma said : —

43. On hearing his words, O sage, I said "So be it."
After granting the boon I returned to my abode thinking on
Siva, though a bit distressed.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

(The penance and reign of Tdrakdsura)
Brahma said: —

1. Then that Varangi, devoted to him, conceived.
The child within her body developed in many years with its
brilliance.

2. That VarangI, when the time was complete, delivered
of a son of huge body and great strength dazzling the ten
quarters.

Rudrasarhhitd

-529

3. At the same time, several phenomena of evil portent
forboding misery and distress happened, when the son of
VarangI was born making the gods miserable.

4. O dear, the phenomena of three varieties indicat-
ing great calamity and terrifying the worlds occurred in the
sky, heaven and earth. I shall narrate them.

5. With a terrifying noise, thunderbolts fell along with
comets; shooting meteors rose up, making the world miserable.

6. The earth with all the mountains quaked; the
quarters blazed; the rivers and oceans were particularly agi-
tated.

7. The rough wind blew with a hissing noise. Gusts
of wind with troops of tempests and dust for banner uprooted
several trees.

8. O great brahmin, the misty haloes around the sun
and the moon in the grip of Rahu became the harbingers of
great fear and unhappiness.

9 At that time terrifying sounds that resembled those
of the chariot issued forth from cracks and crevices in the
mountains.

10. Within villages, inauspicious vixens howled hide-
ously vomitting fires; as it were, through their mouths along
with the hissing and twanging sounds of the hootings and
howlings of owls and jackals.

11. Lifting up their necks, the dogs barked in diverse
ways producing sounds of singing or lamenting here and there.

12. O dear, groups of mad asses ran here and there
braying loudly and digging the ground with their hoofs.

13. Terrified by the asses, birds flew up from their
nests. In their excitement and flutter they honked and
cronked. They did not find a peaceful perch anywhere.

14. Beasts in sheds and forests roamed here and there
in great fright as though beaten and driven about, passing
urine and shitting dungs as they pleased.

15. Frightened cows sprayed blood through their
udders; their eyes brimmed with tears, clouds showering
putrid matter became terrifying.

16. Idols and images of deities appeared to cry and fly
up. Even when there was no gale, trees fell down. Planets
in the sky clashed with one another.

530

Sivapuratia

17. O excellent sage, these and similar portending
phenomena occurred : Ignorant persons thought the sub-
mersion of the whole universe was imminent.

18. Then Kas"yapa Prajapati thought well and named
the powerful demon Taraka.

19. That heroic demon, with his manliness and valour
manifesting quickly grew and developed with his steely frame
like the lord of mountains.

20. Then the demon Taraka, of great strength and
exploit, endowed with a lofty mind, requested permission of
his mother for performing penance.

21. The permission having been secured, that demon
possessing great power of illusion and capable of deluding even
experts in the magical art, thought of performing penance in
order to conquer all the gods.

22. Strictly adhering to. the directions of his elders
and preceptors he went to the forest of Madhu and perfor-
med a severe penance duly, having Brahma as his objective.

23. For a hundred years he performed penance with
his hands lifted up, standing on only one leg and gazing
at the sun. With his mind steady and firm he observed
all sacred rites.

24. Then for a hundred years, the lord and king of
Asuras, Taraka performed the penance : stood steady
touching the ground with the single big toe.

25. For hundred years he performed penance by
drinking only water; another hundred years by sustaining
himself on air alone, another hundred years standing in
water and another hundred years standing on dry land.

26. A hundred years he performed the penance amidst
fires, a hundred years in a topsy-turvy position and a
hundred years supported on the ground by the palms of his
hands.

27. O sage, a hundred years he remained with his
head down and feet up clinging fast to the branch of a tree
and inhaling the pure smoke of the sacrificial fire.

28. Thus with ardour, the king of the demons perfor-
med the severe penance duly unbearable even to those who
heard about it.

29. O sage, in the process of such a' penance, a huge

kudrasarhhita

531

mass of light shot up from his head and spread all round.
It caused great havoc.

30. All the worlds of the gods were well nigh consu-
med by it alone. O sage, all the celestial sages were hard
hit and distressed.

31-32. Indra, the lord of gods, was extremely terrified.
He thought "Some one is performing a penance. Surely he
will usurp my position. This master mind shall in a trice
destroy the whole cosmos". All those who entertained similar
doubts could not decide what to do.

33. Then all those gods and sages consulted one another
and in their great fright they came to my world and appro-
ached me in a piteous plight.

34. Bowing to and eulogising me with palms joined in
reverence, all of them explained everything to me distressed in
mind that they were.

35. Coming to a definite conclusion with adequate thou-
ght as to the reason for the same, I went where the demon
was performing penance in order to grant him the boon.

36. O sage, I told him thus— "Tell me what boon you
want. A severe penance has been performed by you. There
is nothing which cannot be granted to you".

37. On hearing these words of mine, Taraka, the great
demon, bowed and eulogised me and requested for a terrible
boon.

Taraka said : —

38. "O Pitamaha, if you are glad and ready to grant
me the boon what is it that cannot be achieved by me ?
Hence I request you for this boon. Please listen.

39. O lord of gods, if you are pleased and if a boon is
to be given to me, be kind enough to grant me two boons.

40. O great lord, there should certainly be no man
equal to me in strength in this entire universe created by you.

41 . If a son born of Siva becomes the commander-in-
chief of an army and discharges weapons against me, let my
death occur then".

42. O excellent sage, thus requested by that demon, I
granted him two boons and hastened back to my abode.

532

Sivapurana

43. Securing the excellent boon in accordance with his
cherished desire, the demon was very glad and went to the
town Sonita 83 .

44. That great demon was crowned the king of the
three worlds with the permission of Sukra, the preceptor of
the demons.

45. Then the great demon became the leader of the
three worlds. He inaugurated his commanding position
by harassing the mobile and immobile beings.

46. He duly established his suzerainty over the three
worlds. He protected his subjects but inflicted pain on the
gods and others.

47. Then the demon Taxaka seized gems and jewels of
all the guardians of the quarters, Indra and others, offered
under duress by them on being afraid of him.

48. Afraid of him, Indra surrendered his Airavata
(white elephant) and Kubera all his nine treasures.

49. White horses were surrendered by Varuna, the wish-
yielding cow Kamadhenu by the sages, and the sun out of fear
for him surrenderad his divine horse QccaihSravas.

50. Wherever a fine article was espied by the demon,
he seized it immediately. The three worlds became void of
all valuable things.

51. O sage, the oceans tho offered him their gems on
account of fear. The entire earth became exuberant in pro-
ductivity without being tilled and yielded what his subjects
desired.

52. The sun glowed gently and mildly as not to make
him distressed. The moon was always visible with his bril-
lant light and the wind blew always favouring him.

53. Whatever riches the gods possessed or the manes
or others had, were forfeited by the wicked demon.

54. Bringing the three worlds under his control, he
declared Indra himself. He became the undisputed lord and
ruled over them with perfect self-control.

23. It was the capital of the Asura territory, later on called
Baaapura, as it was ruled by the powerful Asura Bana, the devotee of
Siva. According to Dey (G, D. PP. 21, 189) Sonitapura is still called by
that name, and is situated in Kamaun on the bank of the river Kedara-
Gaiga or MandakinI about 6 miles from Usamatha at a short distance
from Guptakasi". 1 1 ■

Rudmsamhita

533

55. Dismissing the gods he installed demons in their
places. Some gods he engaged in his personal service.

56. O sage, the gods harassed by him, led by Indra,
sought refuge in me. They were helpless and extremely
agitated.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

{Brahma consoles the gods harassed and frightened
by the demon Taraka)

Brahma, said : —

1. The gods terribly tormented by Taraka, bowed to
and eulogised me, the lord of subjects with great devotion.

2. On hearing the eulogy of the gods pleasing and true
to facts I was highly pleased and replied to the heaven-
dwellers thus.

3. O gods, welcome to you. I hope you are all
fulfilling your duties without obstacles. Why have you all
come here ? Tell me.

4. On hearing my words those gods bowed to me
duly and spoke. Being tormented by Taraka they were in a
piteous plight.

The gods said : —

5. O lord of the worlds, thanks to the boon received
from you. The demon Taraka is very haughty. Driving us
out with force he has taken possession of our positions.

6. Is it not known to you what misery has befallen
us ? Please dispel our misery quickly. We seek refuge in
you.

7. He torments us wherever we happen to stay by
day or at night. Wherever we flee we see Taraka.

8- O dear, lord of all, we are extremely harassed
and agitated due to Taraka.

9. Agnij Yama, Varuna, Nirrti, Vayu and other
guardians of the deities- are under his control.

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Sivapuram

10. None of them is ever independent. All serve him
in the manner of human beings accompanied by their followers.

11. Being harassed by him, the gods have become
subservient of him. They are engaged in carrying out his
wishes. All of us are his servants.

12. Our woman folk, the groups of heavenly nymphs
have been captured by Taraka, the powerful. ■

13. No sacrifice is in the making. No ascetic is in
penances. The charitable and virtuous activities are being sel-
dom pursued in the worlds.

14. His commander-in-chief is a simple demon-Kraufica.
He has now gone to the nether worlds and is harassing the
people very much.

15. The regions of our three worlds have been forcibly
taken, O Brahama, by this Taraka of sinful and ruthless tem-
perament.

16. O lord of the worlds, we were in heaven but now
that we have been turned out by that demon we shall go to
any place which you may kindly suggest.

1 7. You are our final resort. You are our ruler,
creator, and protector. But we are scorched in the fire of
the name Taraka. We are extremely agitated.

18. Our ruthless activities against him have turned
out to be weak and ineffective, even as medicinal herbs of
great potency are rendered ineffective in an ailment brought
about by the combination of all deranged humours.

19. We had some hope of victory in Sudardana the
discus of Visnu. But even that discus has become ineffect-
ive in his neck where it has fallen as though it were a floral
offering to a deity.

Brahma said : —

20. O sage, on hearing these words of the gods, I told
them befitting the occasion.

21. "O gods, the demon Taraka has flourished, thanks
to my words of blessings. His destruction through me does
not seem proper.

22. Improper is the destruction through that source
wherefrom he has flourished. Even a poisonous tree tended and

Rudrasamhita

535

nurtured by one cannot be cut and felled down by oneself. 11

23. Siva is the most suitable agent to carry out your
task. But I myself cannot do anything remedial in this case.

24. Taraka will be destroyed by his own sin. How
that shall be done you know from me. I shall advise you.

25. Thanks to the power of the boon granted by me.
Taraka cannot be killed by me or by Visnu or by Siva or
by any one of the gods. It is true.

26. O gods, if there is a son born of Siva, he alone
can kill the demon Taraka.

27. O best of gods, you carry out the remedy I am
suggesting. By the grace of lord Siva, it can be successfully
accomplished.

28. Sati, the daughter of Daksa, formerly cast off her
body. She is now born of Menaka's womb. That event is
already known to you all.

29- O gods, it is certain that lord Siva will marry her.
Still you shall pursue your endeavour.

30. Make such arrangements as to ensure the discharge
of semen into Parvati, the daughter of Menaka.

31. Siva is a great Yogin who can make semen flow
upwards in the body. Only Parvati can make him discharge
the semen downwards, out of the body. There is no other
woman capable of it.

32. That daughter of the lord of the mountains is now
in her prime of youth. She is serving Siva in his penance on
the Himalayas.

33. As a result of the tenacious pleadings of her
father, she is serving Him in meditation.

34. She is the most beautiful lady in the three worlds.
She stands in front of Him and worships Him. Still lord
Siva who is engrossed in His meditation is not distracted by
her presence.

35. It is your duty to ascertain means to make Him
desire Parvati for His wife. O gods, do something in that
direction very quickly.

36. I shall go to the demon's abode and try to dissuade
him from his obstinacy. O gods, you can go to your abode

24. For the similarity of idea and verbal expression, cp. KSlidasa's
Kurnara.

536 Sivapurana

37. After saying thus to the gods I hastened to the
demon Taraka. I addressed him thus.

Brahma said: —

38. You are ruling over our heaven which contains
the essence of all brilliance. You are desirous of getting
more than what you bargained for at the time of your
penance.

39. I granted you a boon but not the kingdom of
heaven. Hence leave off this region. You can rule over the
earth.

40. O best of Asuras, even there you can achieve the
fruit of your activities as here in Devaloka. There is
nothing to hesitate in this matter.

41. After thus exhorting the demon to leave off heaven
I, the lord of all, remembered Siva and Siva and vanished
from the scene.

42. Leaving the heaven, Taraka descended to the earth.
Stationed in the town Sonita, he ruled over the entire king-
dom.

43. On hearing my words, the gods bowed to me
and went to Indra's abode. They were duly received by
Indra.

44. After reaching there and consulting one another, the
gods in a body lovingly told Indra.

The gods said : —

45. "O lord, you should carry out the suggestions of
Brahma and see that Siva is lovingly inclined towards
Siva.

Brahma said : —

46. After explaining every thing to the lord, the gods
went in all directions to their respective abodes with great
pleasure.

Rudrasamhita

537

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

{The dialogue between Indra and Kdmadeva)

Brahma said • —

1 . When the gods had gone, Indra remembered Kama.
He was so afflicted by Taraka, the wicked demon.

2. In an instant, Kama, the lover of Rati, came there
along with Vasanta. He was accompanied by Rati too.
Being powerful enough to conquer the three worlds he was
very haughty.

3. Making due obeisance standing in front of Indra,
the lofty-minded Kama joined his palms in reverence and
said : —

Kama said : —

4. "What is the matter that has cropped up now ?
Wherefore was I remembered ? Please tell me. I am here
to carry it out".

Brahma said : —

5. On hearing the words of Kama, Indra, the lord of the
gods, said praising him lovingly saying "well done, very
proper".

Indra said : —

6. O Kama you are blessed indeed, since you are
in readiness to carry out the affair I have on hand. You
have begun well.

7. Listen to what is relevant to the context. I shall
tell you everything. My job is equally your job and not
otherwise.

8. I have many friends and great friends at that.
But, O Kama, I have no other friend on a par with you
anywhere.

9. O dear, for my conquest, the unparallelled thunder-
bolt has been made. Even that weapon may sometimes be
ineffective but you are never so.

10. Who can be dearer than the person from whom

538

Sivapurana

one derives benefit ? Hence you, my greatest friend, must
carry out my task.

11. Time being accursed, a great irremediable misery
has befallen me. None other than you can dispel it.

12. The test of a donor is at the time of famine; the
test of a warrior is at the time of battle; the test of a friend
is at the time of adversity and the test of a woman is in the
financial weakness of the family.

13. O dear, the test of a real friend is in the time of
distress and is also based on what he does behind the back.
It is not otherwise. This is truth.

14. Now that an adversity has befallen me, which
cannot be thwarted by anyone else, O dear friend, it shall
be a test for you today.

15. This is not a matter that brings pleasure to me
alone. This is a matter that concerns all the gods and
others too.

Brahma said : —

16. On hearing these words of Indra the fish-bannered
god Kama spoke smilingly in words indicating love and
gravity.

Kama said : —

17. Why do you say like this ? I make no answer
to you. A helping unreal friend is neither seen nor
spoken of in the world.

18. He who speaks much at the time of adversity
will not turn out much. Yet, O king, my lord, I shall say
something. Please listen.

19. O dear friend, I shall cause the downfall of that
enemy of yours who is performing a severe penance to
usurp your position.

20. I shall topple gods, sages, demons and others
through the side-glances of a beautiful woman. I do not at
all take human beings into consideration.

21. Let your thunderbolt and other weapons of in-
numerable varieties be set aside. What will they do when I,
your friend, am present ?

22. I can undoubtedly make Brahma and Visnu go

Rudrasarhhitd

539

astray. Others are of no consideration. I shall make even
Siva fall.

23. I have only five arrows that are soft and flowery.
My bow is of three types. That too is flowery. The bow-
string consists of bees.

24. My support and strength is my beloved wife
Rati. Spring is my minister. O god, I am having five
forces. The moon, the storehouse of nectar, is my friend.

25. The sentiment of love is my commander-in-chief.
The coquettish gestures and emotions are my soldiers. All
these are soft and gentle. O Indra, I too am of that sort.

26. An intelligent man shall put together things that
are mutually complementary. You shall therefore engage me
in a task that accords with my capacity.

Brahma said : —

27. On hearing his words, Indra was much pleased.
Pleasing Kama, the bestower of cherished happiness, by
means of his words, he spoke.

Indra said : —

28. O dear Kama, you are competent to carry out the
task which I have conceived in my mind. It cannot be
realised through anyone else.

29. O Kama, foremost among my friends, listen. I
shall explain truly for what I remembered you and desired
your presence, O Kama.

30. Securing a wonderful boon from Brahma, the great
demon Taraka has become invincible and a pest for everyone.

31. The entire world is harassed by him. Many virtu-
ous rites are destroyed. The gods have become miserable and
so also the sages.

32. He had been fought by the gods to the utmost of
their ability formerly. But the weapons of all the gods became
quite futile.

33. The noose of Varuna, the god of waters, snapped.
When hurled at his neck by Visnu, the discus Sudarfana was
blunted.

34. The death of this wicked demon has been foretold

540

Sivapurana

by Brahma, the lord of the people, at the hands of the boy
born of Siva . the great Yogin.

35. O dear friend, this task must be achieved by you
diligently. Then we, the gods, can be very happy.

36. It will be beneficent to me. It will render the
whole world happy. Realising the duties of a friend you are
now to act.

37. Siva is at present engaged in a great penance. The
supreme lord is always independent. It is not to achieve
any desire that He performs the penance.

38. For the sake of gods, at the bidding of her father,
Parvati is attending on Him, I hear.

39. O Kama, you shall certainly do everything neces-
sary to bring about an interest in her in the mind of Siva
who has self-control.

40. You will become contented after this. Your mis-
eries will be destroyed. Your exploit will be permanently
established in the world. Not otherwise.

Brahma said : —

41. On being thus addressed, Kama was glad, his face
beaming like a full blown lotus. He lovingly said to the
lord of gods, "I shall undoubtedly do it."

42-43. After saying this when he said "So be it" he
said "yes." Kama accepted it because he was deluded by
Siva's illusion. Accompanied by his wife and Spring he went
to the place where Siva, the Yogin, was performing penance.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

{Description of the perturbation caused by Kama)

Brahma said: —

1. After going there, the haughty Kama, deluded by
Siva's magic power, stationed himself, after first spreading the
enchanting power of Spring all around.

2. The enchanting influence of Spring spread every-

kudrasathhita

541

where around Osadhiprastha, the penance-grove of Siva, the
supreme lord, O excellent sage.

3. O great sage, the groves bloomed with special ex-
uberance, O excellent sage, due to his power.

4. The fragrant flowers of Mango and Asoka trees
shone heightening feelings of love.

5. The water lilies with bees hovering on them proved
to be the causes for the rise of love in the minds of everyone.

6. The sweet cooings of the cuckoos heightened emo-
tions of love. They were exquisite and pleasing to the
mind.

7. O sage, diverse sounds of the hummings of the bees
rang sweet in the ears of everyone heightening temptations of
love.

8- The bright light of the moon scattered all around
appeared to be the emissary of lovers and their beloveds.

9. At that time the Kaladipika {brilliant lamp) in-
duced reticent haughty persons to love. O good sir, the wind
blew gently but distressed those who were separated from
their beloveds.

10. Thus the vast diffusion of Spring caused the dis-
play of emotions of love. It was unbearable to the forest-
dwelling sages.

11. O sage, then, even the insentient beings had the
emotions of love. What about the state of sentient ones ?

12. Thus spring employed his unbearable power heigh-
tening the love of all living beings.

13. On seeing the untimely display of spring, Siva the
lord, who had assumed a physical body indulging in divine
sports, thought it surprising.

14. But He, the chief of the self-controlled and the
remover of man's misery continued his severe penance.

15. When spring spread everywhere, Kama accom-
panied by Rati stood on his left side, with the arrow of mango
blossom taken out and kept in readiness.

16. Enchanting all people, he spread his influence.
Who was not enchanted on seeing Kama in the company of
Rati ?

17. Thus they initiated their dalliance. The senti-
ment of love too accompanied by coquettish gestures and

542

Sivapurana

emotions reached the vicinity of Siva along with his attend-
ants.

18. Kama, usually stationed within the mind mani-
fested himself outside. But he could not find any vulnerable
loop-hole in Siva whereby he could enter Him.

19. When Kama did not secure any entry within the
great Yogin, he became deluded and frightened much through
the magical power of Siva.

20. Who could gain access to Siva in meditation, who
could fix an eye in his forehead that resembled fire with
shooting blazing flames ?

21. In the mean time ParvatI came there along with
her two maids and brought various kinds of flowers for Siva's
worship.

22. Certainly ParvatI had a greater beauty than the
most exquisite lady described by people on the earth.

23. When she wore pretty flowers of the season how
could her beauty be described even in a hundred years ?

24. No sooner did she enter within the proximity of
Siva than He came out of his meditation for a short while.

25. Profiting by that opportune moment, Kama, by
means of his arrow Harsana delighted the moon-crest god
Siva who was nearby.

26. O sage, in assistance to Kama, ParvatI reached
the place near Siva with emotions of love and accompanied by
Spring.

27. In order to make the trident-bearing lord take
interest in her, Kama drew his bow very carefully and dis-
charged his flowery arrow on Him.

28. As was her usual practice she approached Siva,
bowed to Him, worshipped Him and stood in front of Him
(awaiting further instructions).

29. ParvatI was stared at by lord Siva, while she was
laying bare some of the limbs bashfully, as is natural to
women in such circumstances.

30. Remembering the boon granted to her by Brahma
formerly, O sage, lord Siva began to describe her limbs joy-
fully.

Ruirasarhhitci

543

Siva said : —

3 1 . "Is this your face or the moon ? Are these your
eyes or lotus petals ? These two eyebrows are the bows of
Kama of noble soul.

32. Is this your lower lip or Bimba fruit? Is this
your nose or the beak of a parrot ? Do I hear your voice
or the cooing of the cuckoo ? Is this your slender waist or
the sacrificial altar ?

33. How can her gait be described ? How can her
comely appearance be described ? How can the flowers be
described? How can the clothes be described?

34. Whatever is graceful and sweet in the creation has
been incorporated here. Indeed, all her limbs are exquisite
in every respect.

35 How blessed is this Parvati of mysteriously wonder-
ful features. There is no other woman equal to her in beauty
in the three worlds.

36. She is a storehouse of the finest beauty. She has
wondrous beautiful limbs- She is an enchantress of even sages.
She increases great happiness."

Brahma said: —

37. After describing her body again and again, recoll-
ecting the boon granted by Brahma, Siva stopped.

38. When Siva put His hand within her garment and
moved it, she, as is natural to women, bashfully withdrew
and kept aloof.

39. O sage, then Parvati smilingly laid bare some parts
of her body and cast graceful glances at Him with great
pleasure.

40. On seeing these movements and gestures Siva
became fascinated. Lord Siva indulging in great divine
sports spoke these words.

41. "I feel great pleasure on merely seeing her. What
pleasure shall I derive by embracing her ?"

42. Thinking thus only for a moment, the enlightened
Siva became detached, honoured Parvati and spoke.

43. "How wonderful and mysterious is the situation that
has arisen ! How is it that I have been deluded and fascin-

544

SivapurSna

ated ? Though I am the lord and master, I have been pert-
urbed by Kama.

44. If I, the master, were to yearn for the touch of a
woman's limbs what will not be done by other incompetent
and insignificant creatures".

45. Thus resuming detachment, lord Siva forbade her
sitting on the couch. How can there be a downfall for the
great lord Siva ?

CHAPTER NINETEEN

{Kama's destruction by Siva)

Nar ada said: —

1. O Brahma, the most fortunate one, what happened
then ? Be pleased to tell me that story that destroys our sins
altogether.

Brahma said: —

2. O dear one, hear the story of what happened there-
after. Out of love for me I shall recount Siva's sports that
bring about joy.

3. On seeing the dissipation of His courage, lord Siva,
the great Yogin, thought within Himself wondering much.

Siva said: —

4. How is it that obstacles have cropped up while I
am performing the great penance ? Who can be that wicked
person who has made my mind highly perturbed ?

5. With love I have described in bad taste another
man's woman. I hive contravened rules of virtue and
transgressed the bounds of the Vedas.

Brahma said: —

6. After thinking like this, the great Yogin, the goal
of the good, surveyed all round, his suspicion having been
aroused.

7. He saw Kama stationed on His left side with his

Rudrasarhhita

545

bow fully drawn and ready to discharge the arrow. Kama
was haughty and so was very senseless.

8. O Narada, on seeing Kama in that attitude, instan-
taneously anger was aroused in lord Siva, the supreme soul.

9. O sage, standing high up in the air, holding the
arrow and the bow, Kama discharged his arrow, usually
unerring on Siva.

10. The infallible weapon became futile on the great
lord. The furious weapon calmed down in regard to the
great soul, Siva.

11. Kama was frightened when his weapon failed.
Standing there and seeing lord Siva, the conqueror of death
in front, he trembled.

12. O great sage, when his endeavour became futile,
Kama who was frightened much remembered Indra and all
other gods.

13. O great sage, remembered by Kama, Indra and
other gods came there, bowed to and eulogised Siva.

14. When the gods eulogised thus, a great flame of fire
sprang up from the third eye of the infuriated Siva.

15. That fire originating instantaneouly from the eye in
the middle of His forehead blazed with flames shooting up
and resembling the fire of final dissolution in refulgence.

16. After shooting up in the sky, it fell on the ground
and rolled over the earth all round.

17. Even before the gods had the time to say "Let him
be forgiven, let him be excused" it reduced Kama to ashes.

18. When the heroic Kama was thus slain, the gods
became miserable. In their agitation they lamented much
and saying "O what has happened ?" they cried aloud.

19. With pallid face and limbs, the extremely agitated
daughter of the king of mountains returned to her palace tak-
ing the maids along with her.

20. Due to the misery on account of the death of her
husband, Rati fell down unconscious, as if dead.

21. When she regained consciousness after a while,
Rati in her great agitation lamented loudly and said: —

Rati said'.-— . ^

22. "What shall I do ? Where can I go ? Wha t is it

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Sivapurana

that the gods have done in making my husband a victim
thus ? They have called him here and destroyed him.

23. O ! O ! O lord Kama, dearer to me than my
vital airs, O bestower of happiness, what has happened here ?
Ha, Ha, my dear, my dear |"

Brahma, said: —

24. Lamenting thus and crying out various piteous
words she beat with her hands, kicked with her legs and
plucked her hairs.

25. O Narada, on hearing her lamentation even the
beasts and residents of the forest, nay all the immobile trees
and bushes became miserable.

26. In the meantime Indra and other gods remem-
bered lord Siva and consoled Rati saying as follows: —

The gods said: —

27. Take some ashes and preserve them. With effort
check your fear. The lord will resuscitate your lover. You
will regain your lover again.

28. There is none who gives us happiness or misery.
All enjoy and experience the fruit of what they do. In
vain do you curse the gods.

Brahma, said : —

29. After consoling Rati thus, all the gods approached
Siva and propitiated Him. With great devotion they spoke
these words, to Him.

The gods said : —

30. O lord, O great god, favourably disposed to those
who seek refuge in you, be pleased to listen to these well
intended words of ours.

31. O Siva, be pleased to ponder over the action of
Kama. O lord Siva, there is no tinge of selfishness in what
Kama has done.

32. O lord, he had been induced to do so by all the
gods harassed by the wicked Taraka. O Siva, please know
that it is not otherwise.

33. O lord, the chaste Rati is lonely and miserable

Rudrasarhkita

547

now. O lord Siva, she is in great lamentation, O bestower
of everything, please console her.

34. If you have finally disposed off Kama, O Siva, you
are desirous of annihilating all the gods by means of your
fury.

35. On seeing the distress of Rati, the gods are almost
doomed. Hence you must remove the distress of Rati.

Brahma said : —

36. On hearing their words, lord Siva was pleased.
He said this to all the gods.

Siva said : —

37. O gods, O sages, all of you listen attentively to
my words. What has happened, thanks to my fury, cannot
be altered.

38. The lord Kama, the husband of Rati, shall
remain bodiless till Visnu incarnates as Krsna on the earth
and marries Rukmini.

39. Krsna will beget Kama in Rukmini when he
goes to Dvaraka 25 and begins to procreate children.

40. His name will certainly be Pradyumna. The demon
Sambara will abduct the boy at the time of his very birth.

41 . After abducting the boy, the great demon, Sambara,
will throw him in the sea. The foolish fellow will take him
for dead and will return to his city.

42. O Rati, you shall stay in his city till then. There
alone you will get back your husband Pradyumna.

43. Kama in the name of Pradyumna will regain his
wife after killing Sambara in a battle. O gods, he will be
happy thereafter.

44. After taking all the valuable properties of Sambara,
O gods, he will go to the city again along with her. These
words of mine are true.

Brahma, said —

45. On hearing these words of Siva, the gods heaved a
sigh of relief. Joining their palms in reverence and bowing
to Him they said : —

25. This town 7 associated with Lord Krsija, is situated in Kathiawar.

54&

"ivapurana

The gods said : —

46. "O great god, lord of the gods, O lord, the ocean
of mercy, please resuscitate Kama quickly. O Siva, save the
life of Rati."

Brahma said : —

47. On hearing these words of the gods, great God
became delighted. The lord of all, the ocean of mercy, spoke
again.

Siva said : —

48. O gods, I am delighted. I shall resuscitate Kama
within myself. He will be one of my Ganas and will sport
about always.

49. O gods, this story should not be narrated in the
presence of any one. All of you return to your abodes. I
shall destroy all miseries.

Brahma said : —

50. After saying this Rudra vanished even as the gods
were eulogising Him. The gods became delighted and free
from mental suspense.

51. O sage, abiding by the directions of Siva and
consoling Rati by means of the conciliatory words of Siva,
the gods returned to their respective places.

52. O excellent sage, then Rati, the wife of Kama
went to the city and waited for the time mentioned by Siva.

CHAPTER TWENTY

(The story of the submarine fire)

Narada said : —

1. O Brahma, please tell me "Where did the flame of
fire emerging from the eye of Siva go ?" Please tell me also
the further story of the moon-crested lord.

Brahma said : —

2. When the fire from the third eye of Siva reduced

Rudrasathhita

549

Kama to ashes it began to blaze all round without burning
anything.

3. A huge hue and cry was raised in the three worlds
consisting of the mobile and immobile creatures. Immediately
the gods and sages sought refuge in me.

4. All of them in their agitation bowed to and eulo-
gised me with their palms joined in reverence and the heads
bent down. They intimated to me their grief.

5. On hearing that I pondered over the reason for
the same, and remembering Siva humbly I went there in order
to protect the three worlds.

6. That fire, out to burn everything, very brilliant with
its shooting flames, was thwarted by me as I had the capa-
city by Siva's grace.

7. O sage, then I made that fire of fury, out to burn
the three worlds, tender in its blaze and mare-like in
shape.

8. Taking that fire mare-like in form, at the will of
Siva, I, the lord of the worlds, went to the sea shore, for the
benefit of the worlds.

9. O sage, on seeing me arrived there, the sea took
a human form and approached me with palms joined in
reverence.

10. Bowing to and duly eulogising me, the grand-
father of all the worlds, the ocean said lovingly.

The ocean said : —

11-12. "O Brahma, the lord of all, why have you
come here ? Please command me with pleasure knowing me
to be your servant". On hearing the words of the ocean
I remembered Siva. I spoke with love in order to benefit
the world.

Brahma said : —

13. O dear, intelligent one, causing the welfare of all
the worlds, O ocean, induced by Siva's will, I shall explain
to you.

14. This is the fire of fury of lord Siva, the great
lord. It is in the form of a mare now. After burning
Kama it was about to burn everything.

550 Sivapurana

15. At the will of Siva I was requested by the gods
who were harassed by it, and so I went there and suppressed
the fire.

16. I gave it the form of a mare. I have brought
it here. O ocean, I ask you to be merciful.

17. This fury of lord Siva, now in the form of a
mare, you will bear till the final dissolution of all living
beings.

18. O lord of rivers, when I shall come and stay
here, you shall release it. This is Siva's wonderful fire of
fury.

19. His perpetual diet shall consist of your waters.
This shall be preserved by you with effort lest it should go
down.

20. Thus requested by me, the ocean agreed. None
else could have grasped Siva's fire of fury thus.

21. That fire in the form of a mare entered the ocean
and began to consume the currents of water. It blazed
with all its shooting flames.

22. O sage, then, delighted in mind I returned to
my abode. The ocean of divine form bowed to me and
vanished.

23. O great sage, the entire universe, freed from the
fear of that fire became normal. The gods and the sages
became happy.

CHAPTER TWENTYONE

(Narada instructs Parvati)

Narada said : —

1. O dear Brahma, O disciple of Visnu, of great
intellect, O Creator of three worlds, this is a very wonderful
story of the great soul Siva that has been narrated.

2. When Kama had been reduced to ashes by the
fire from the third eye of Siva and when that fire had been
deposited in the ocean what happened thereafter ?

3. What did Goddess Parvati, the daughter of the lord

Rudrasamhita

551

of mountains, do ? O storehouse of mercy, please tell me
now where she went along with her maids.

BrakmS said : —

4. O dear, of great intellect, listen to the story of the
moon- crested lord, my master and the cause of great enjoy-
ment and protection.

5. A wonderfully loud sound arose covering the
whole firmament when the fire issuing from Siva's eye
burnt Kama.

6. On hearing that loud report and seeing Kama
burnt, Parvati was terribly frightened and she returned to
her abode along with her maids.

7. Himavat along with his attendants and relatives
was surprised on hearing that loud report. He was agitated
on remembering that his daughter had gone there.

8. On seeing his daughter excessively agitated, the lord
of the mountains was sorry. The lord of the mountains
approached her gently as she was crying due to her separa-
tion from Siva.

9-10. Approaching her and wiping off her eyes with
his hand he said — "Dear daughter, do not be afraid, do not
cry. He took her on his lap and consoled her. The lord
of the mountains took her immediately to his palace.

11. When Siva had vanished after burning Kama,
Parvati became extremely agitated due to His separation. She
did not attain pleasure anywhere.

12. Returning to her father's abode and meeting her
mother, Siva, the daughter of the mountain, considered
herself born again.

13. She cursed her own beauty. She said to herself.
"O, I am doomed". The daughter of the lord of mountains
did not regain composure though consoled and assuaged by
the maids.

14. She did not achieve happiness and peace in
sleeping, drinking, bathing, or sitting amidst her maids.

15. Remembering the various gestures and movements
of Siva, she muttered to herself ever and anon — "Fie upon
my beauty. Fie on my birth and activity".

16. Thus Parvati was much distressed in mind due to

552

Sivapurana

separation from Siva. She did not at all feel happy. She
always muttered "Siva, Siva."

17. O dear, with her consciousness centred round the
Pinaka-bearing lord, she continued to stay in the palace of
her father. Siva bewailed much and fainted frequently.

18. The lord of the mountains, Menaka, and their sons
chief of whom was Mainaka of undisturbed mind, tried to
console her but still she did not forget Siva.

19. O celestial sage, O intelligent one, employed by
Indra, the slayer of Bala, you came to Himalaya mountain
roaming here and there as you pleased.

20. You were then worshipped by the noble-souled
mountain. You enquired of his health and happiness and
you were seated in a noble seat.

2 1 . Then the lord of the mountains told you the story
of his daughter from her service to Siva to the burning of
Kama by Him.

22. O sage, on hearing that, you told the lord of the
mountains — "Worship Siva." You stood up, remembered
Siva mentally and took leave of him.

23. O sage, leaving him you hastened to meet Parvati
secretly, you a favourite of Siva, perfectly wise and engaged
in helping the world.

24. Approaching Parvati and addressing her, you spoke
to her respectfully. You are foremost among the wise and
you were interested in her welfare. Your words were true.

Narada said: —

25. O Parvati, listen. I am sympathetic to you. I
shall speak truly. My words will be beneficent to you in all
respects. They will lead to the achievement of your desire.
They are free from aberrations.

26. The great god has been served by you without
austerities. You had some pride which He, the blesser of the
distressed, eradicated.

27. O Siva, after burning Kama, lord Siva though
favourably disposed to His devotees, left you, since the lord
is a great Yogin and so unattached to you.

28. Hence you shall propitiate Him by performing a

Rudrasarfihita

553

great penance. Siva will take you as His wife, after you
have been sanctified by austerities.

29. You will never forsake the auspicious Siva. O gpd-
dess, you will not take any one other than Siva as your
husband.

Brahma said : —

30. On hearing your words, O sage, Parvati, the daugh-
ter of the mountain, heaved a sigh of relief and gladly spoke
to you with palms joined in reverence.

Pdrvatt said: —

31. O sage, O omniscient one, you help all the worlds,
please tell me a formula for the propitiation of lord Siva.

32- No sacred rite will ever fructify without a good
preceptor. Truly this eternal statement of the Vedas was
heard by me before.

Brahma said : —

33. On hearing these words of Parvati, O excellent sage,
you taught her the five-syllabled mantra of §iva* in accord-
ance with the sacred law.

34. O sage, generating her faith you told her the
supreme efficacy of the great formula thus.

Narada said :—

35. O goddess, listen to the wonderful efficacy of' this
formula on hearing which Siva becomes excessively pleased.

36. This formula is a king of all formulas. It yields
all cherished desires, bestows all worldly pleasures and salvar
tion, and appeals much to Siva.

37. Repeating this formula in accordance with the in-
junctions you shall propitiate Siva. He will certainly
appear before you.

38. O Siva, meditate on His form, observing all restr-
aints. Repeat the five-syllabled mantra. Siva will be pleased
quickly.

39. Q chaste lady, perform the penance thus. Lord
* The fivevsyllabled fyl^ntra of Siva : jfjf: f^fir

554

Sivapuraiia

Siva can be attained through penance. Every one attains the
desired fruits in penance and not otherwise.

Brahma said : —

40. O Narada, after saying thus to ParvatI, you, the
favourite of Siva, went to heaven, a casual visitor engaged in
the welfare of the gods.

41. O Narada, on hearing your words and securing
the excellent five-syllabled mantra, ParvatI was extremely
pleased.

CHAPTER TWENTYTWO

{Description of Parvati's penance)

Brahma said : —

1. After your departure, O celestial sage, convinced
that Siva could be achieved by means of penance, ParvatI
became glad and decided to perform penance.

2. She took her maids Jaya. and Vijaya into confidence
and through them made her parents acquainted.

3. First she wanted her father Himavat, the lord of
mountains, to hear her humble words.

The maids said : —

4-5. O Himavat, let the words of your daughter be
heard through us. She wishes to make her body, beauty and
family fruitful. This can be achieved through penance and
not otherwise.

6. O excellent mountain, the permission may kindly be
given — "Let ParvatI go to the forest and perform penance
there".

Brahma said: —

7. O excellent sage, thus requested by ParvatI through
the maids, the lord of the mountains carefully considered the
proposal and said:

Himacala said: —

8. This appeals to me. I it appeals to Mena as it
ought to be, what else can be a better course ?

Rudrasamhita

555

9. There is no doubt about it that my House will be
fortunate. If her mother also likes this, what can be more
auspicious than this ?

Brahma said: —

10. After hearing the words spoken by her father and
(in a way) commanded by him, the two maids went to her
mother along with her.

11. O Naxada, approaching Parvati's mother, they
bowed down and with palms joined in reverence they respect-
fully spoke thus.

The maids said: —

12. O mother, O gentle lady, please listen to the words
of your daughter. Obeisance be to you. You will listen
with pleasure and act accordingly.

1 3. For the sake of attaining Siva, your daughter wishes
to perform a severe penance. She has secured the permission
of her father. She now wants to seek it from you.

14. O chaste lady, she is desirous of making her beauty
fruitful. If your permission too is received, the penance can
be performed.

Brahma said: — >

15. O excellent sage, after saying this, the maids
became silent. Distressed in mind, Mena did not accept the
proposal.

16. Then ParvatI herself spoke to her mother joining
her palms in humility and remembering the lotus-like feet of
Siva.

Parvati said: — ■

17. O mother, I shall be going in the morning for
performing penance to achieve Siva. Please permit me to go
to the penance-grove for the task.

Brahma said: —

18. On hearing the words of her daughter, Mena was
distressed. That chaste lady called her daughter near and
spoke to her in dejection.

556

Sivapuratia

Mena said : —

19. O daughter Siva, if you are distressed, if you wish
to perform penance, you can do it at home. O Parvati, do
not go out.

20. Where do you wish to go for performing penance ?
All the deities are in my house. All the holy centres and the
different temples too are here.

21. Do not be stubborn, dear daughter. You shall not
go out of your home. What did you achieve when you went
out previously ? What are you going to achieve at present ?

22. Dear child, slender is your body and hard is the
penance. Hence you shall perform penance here. You shall
not go out.

23. For a woman to go to a penance-grove for the
realisation of her desire is what we have never heard of
before. Hence, dear daughter, do not go out for penance.

Brahma said : —

24. Thus, in various ways, the daughter was dissuaded
by her mother. But she did not find any pleasure except in
propitiating Siva.

25. Parvati acquired the name Uma since she was
prevented from going to forest by Mena and forbidden to
perform penance.

26. O sage, on realising that Parvati was quite deject-
ed, Mena, the beloved of the mountain, permitted her to
perform penance.

27. O excellent sage, on getting permission from her
mother, Parvati remembered Siva and felt happy.

28. Bowing to her parents with joy, Parvati remember-
ed Siva and set out for performing penance along with her
maids.

29. Discarding all the fine clothes of her taste, she
wore tree-barks and the fine girdle of Munja grass.

30. She eschewed necklace and wore the pure deer
skin. She arrived at Gangavatarana ?8 for performing penance.

31. The Garigavatarana was in the Himalayan ridge

a6. See No. 22, P. 515

a

Rudrasaihhita

where Kama was burnt by Siva who was performing medi-
tation.

32. Oh dear, that Himalayan ridge devoid of Siva was
painfully seen by Parvati, the mother of the universe, the
daughter of the mountain.

33. She stood for a while in the place where formerly
Siva had performed penance and became dispirited by the
pangs of separation.

34. Crying aloud "Alas O Siva" she, the daughter of
the mountain, lamented sorrowfully and anxiously.

35. Suppressing the delusion with fortitude after - t
long time Parvati, the daughter of Hima vat, got herself initia.
ted for the observance of ritualistic activities.

36. She performed penance in the excellent holy
centre Srngitlrtha which (later) acquired the title "Gauri-
Sikhara 27 " due to her performance of penance thereon.

37. O sage, many beautiful holy plants were laid there
by Parvati for testing the fruitfulness of her penance.

38. Neatly cleaning the ground, the beautiful lady
built the altar. Then the penance, difficult to be performed
even by the sages, was begun.

39. Suppressing her sense-organs with her mind, she
started the great penance in a place within the proximity.

40. In the summer she kept a perpetually blazing fire
all round and remaining within continued muttering the
mantra.

41. In the rainy season she continuously remained
sitting on the bare ground on the rock and got herself drench-
ed by the downpour of rain.

42. During the winter, with great devotion she remain-
ed in water throughout. During snowfall and in the nights
too she performed her penance observing fast.

43. Performing such austerities and engrossed in the
muttering of the five-syllabled mantra, Parvati meditated on
Siva, the bestower of fruits of our cherished desires.

44. Everyday during leisure time she used to water the
trees planted by her along with her maids and extended acts
of hospitality.

27. It it one of the famous peaks of the Himalayas.

558

45. Chill gusts of wind, cool showers, and unbearable
heat she bore with equanimity.

46. Different sorts of worries she did not mind at all.
O sage, fixing her mind in Siva alone she remained firm and
steady.

47. The first year she spent in taking fruits, the second
in taking leaves, in the course of her penance. She spent
many years thus.

48. Then Siva, the daughter of Himavat, eschewed
even the leaves. She did not take any food. She was
engrossed in the performance of penance.

49. Since she, the daughter of Himavat, eschewed
leaves from her diet she was called Aparna by the gods.

50. Then Parvati performed great penance standing on
one leg and remembering Siva, she continued muttering the
five- syllabled mantra.

51. Clad in barks of trees, wearing matted hair and
eager in the meditation of Siva, she surpassed even sages by
her penance.

52. Parvati thus spent three thousand years in the pen-
ance-grove performing penance and meditating on lord Siva.

53. Remaining for a short while in the place where
Siva had performed penance for sixty thousand years, Parvati
thought like this.

54. Does not the Supreme lord know me observing
these ritualistic activities now ? Wherefore am I not followed
by him though engaged in penance ?

55. In the Sastras and the Vedas, lord Siva is always
sung in praise by the sages as the bestower of welfare, omni-
scient, all-pervading and all-seer.

56. The lord is the bestower of all riches, the moulder
of fine emotions, the bestower of the desires of devotees and
the remover of their distress.

57. If I am devoted to the bull-bannered lord, dis-
carding all desires, may He be pleased with me.

58. If the mantra of the Narada Tantra, consisting of
five syllables has been continuously repeated by me with
great devotion may He be pleased with me.

59. If I am a devotee without aberrations of Siva, the
lord of all, may He be extremely pleased with me.

Rudrasamhitd

55&

60. Pondering frequently like this incessantly, she per-
formed penance for a long time, with her face turned down-
wards, her apparel of bark and mind without any aber-
rations.

61. She performed penance difficult to be performed
even by the sages, so much so that people were struck with
surprise.

62. All of them came there to witness her penance.
Considering themselves blessed, they proclaimed thus approv-
ingly.

63. "To follow the standard of the virtuous personages
is declared to be conducive to greatness. There is no delimi-
tation in penance. Virtue shall be honoured by the wise
always.

64. After seeing or hearing about the penance of this
lady what penance will be pursued by a man ? A penance
greater than this has never been before, nor will it
ever be".

65. Saying thus, they praised the penance of ParvatI
and joyously returned to their abodes. Even persons of
sturdy countenance praised her penance.

66. O sage, listen to another surprising influence
of the penance of Parvati, the mother of the universe.

67. Even the naturally inimical beings in and around
her hermitage became free from animosity due to her
power.

68. Lions and cows prone to the passions of love,
hatred etc. ceased to harass one another, thanks to her
greatness.

69. O excellent sage, creatures like cats, mice etc.
who are born enemies to one another did not exhibit any
bad characteristics there.

70. O excellent sage, trees bore fruits, grasses grew
in plenty and flowers of variegated nature and colour
blossomed there.

71. The entire forest became comparable to Kailasa as
it were the achievement of her penance.

560 Sivaphraha

CHAPTER TWENTYTHREE

(Attempt of Himavat to dissuade Parvati; gods go to
meet Siva)

Bfdhma said : —

1. O excellent sage, while Parvati was eilgaged in
penance thus for attaining Siva, a long time elapsed but Siva
did not appear.

2. Then Himavat came there along with his wife,
sons and ministers and spoke to Parvati, who had resolved to
continue her penance.

Himavat said ; —

3- O Parvati, O fortunate one, do not torture your-
self by this penance. Dear girl, Siva is not to be seen.
Certainly he is detached.

4. You are a young woman of tender limbs. You
will be overpowered and exhausted by this penance. There
is no doubt about it. I am speaking the truth.

5. Hence, O comely lady, get up. Gome back to our
house. Of what avail is Siva by whom Kama has been re-
duced tb ashfes ?

6. O goddess, hence not being emotional, Siva will not
c'oirie to claim you as the excellent lady. Why do you yearn
for him ?

7. Just as the moon in the sky cannot be caught, O
sinless girl, so also Siva is inaccessible. Know this.

Brahma said: —

8-9. The same thing was said by Mena, Sahya 28 moun-
tain, Meru, 29 Mandara 30 , Mainaka 31 and Kraufica 32 and

28. It is one of the seven principal mountain ranges in In'dia, a
part of the Western Ghats at some distance from the sea. For details
see P. 1 64.

2Q. It is a fabulous mountain, variously identified, supposed to be
situated in the centre of the eauh.

30. It is a great mountain which the "Gods Used for churning the
ocean. It is supposed to be the mountain so named in Bhagalpur. For
details see P. 48.

31. See Note No. 1a. P. 494

32. It is a mountain in the Himalayas stretching from Kailasa to
the south. It is personified here.

Rttdrasatfifiita

561

others, The unafflicted Parvati was thus sought to be dissuad-
ed by various arguments.

10. When she was thus addressed by all of them, she
with a broad smile, spoke to Himavat.

Parvati said: —

11. O father, O mother, O kinsmen, have all of you
forgotten what I had said formerly. Even now listen to my vow.

12. This great God by whom Kama has been burnt in
fury is detached (you say). I shall propitiate him, by means
of penance. He is favourably disposed to His devotees.

1 3. All of you please go to your respective abodes with
delight. He will certainly be pleased. You need not be
anxious over this.

14. With my penance alone here itself, I shall bring
Him who burnt Kama and the mountainous forest.

15. Sadasiva can be easily served through penance.
Ye fortunate Sirs, please know this truth. I am telling you
the truth.

16. After addressing thus, her father Himalaya, her
mother Menaka, her brothers Mainaka and Mandara, the
eloquent Parvati, the daughter of the king of mountains, kept
quiet.

17. Thus addressed by Parvati, the lord of mountains
and the other mountains went back the way they came, Sur-
prised within arid praising her.

18. After all of them had departed, she with firm re-
solve in the great Truth, accompanied by her maids per-
formed a severe penance.

19. O excellent sage, by that great penance the three
worlds including the gods, Asuras and men, nay all the mo-
bile and immobile beings, became heated.

20-21. The Prajapatis, the Guhyakas and others experi-
enced great distress but could not understand the reason
thereof. The gods, Asuras, Yaksas, Kinnaras, Garanas, Siddhas,
Sadhyas, the sages, the serpents and the Vidyadharas too had
the same experience 33 .

33. Siddhas, Sadhyas, Yaksas, Kinnaras, Vidyadharas, NSgas aiid
Guhyakas are a class of semi-divine beings, thousands in number, of
great purity and holiness, who reside in the Himalayas attending on Siva.

562

£ivapurana

22. All of them, Indra and others, who were extremely
agitated, took leave of their preceptor and sought refuge in
me on the mountain Sumeru. AH their limbs had been
scorched.

23. Devoid of splendour, and agitated excessively they
bowed to and eulogised me. They spoke simultaneously
thus.

The gods said : —

24- "O lord, the whole of this universe consisting of
the mobile and immobile has been created by you. Why is
it scorched so much ? We do not understand.

25. O Brahma, please tell us the reason. O lord, you
shall protect us, the gods whose bodies have been scorched.
There is none else to protect us".

Brahma said : —

26-27. On hearing their words I remembered Siva and
pondered over everything. I realised that the universe was
scorched as a result of Parvati's penance. Accompanied by
them I hastened respectfully to the milk ocean to inform
Visnu about it.

28. Reaching that place along with the gods, I saw
Visnu shining lustrously on a splendid seat. Bowing to and
eulogising him with palms joined in reverence I spoke.

29. "Save, save, O Visnu, save us who have sought
refuge in you, being scorched by the great and severe pen-
ance of Parvati.

30- On hearing these words of mine on behalf of the
heaven-dwellers, lord Visnu seated on the Serpent couch 3 *
spoke to us : —

Visnu said : —

• 31. The entire reason has been known to me. It is

Prajapatis are the ten lords of created beings first created by
Brahma.

34. Visnu is represented in human form slumbering on the serpent
Sega and floating on the waters of the ocean.

Rudrasamhita

563

caused by Parvati's penance. I shall now go to lord Siva
accompanied by all of you.

32- O gods, we shall request lord Siva to approach
Parvati and marry her for the welfare of all the worlds.

33. We shall do everything necessary to make the
Pinaka-bearing lord of the gods go there to grant the boon
to Siva..

34. Therefore now we shall go to the place where
the great lord Siva of severe penance, the conferrer of all
auspicious things, stays.

Brahma said : —

35. On hearing those words of Visnu, the gods and the
rest became excessively afraid of Siva, the furious, the annihila-
tor and the one desirous of burning everything.

The gods said : —

36. We dare not go near the great lord Siva who is
very terrifying, furious and who has the burning brilliance
of the deadly fire of dissolution.

37. Undoubtedly he will burn us all in His anger
as Kama, the indefatigable god, has been burnt by him.

Brahma said : —

38. O sage, on hearing the words of Indra and others,
Visnu, the lord of Laksmi spoke these words, consoling all
the gods.

Visnu said : —

39. O gods, listen with pleasure and attention to my
words. The lord, the destroyer of the fear of gods, will not
consume you in fire.

40. Considering Siva to be benevolent you shall
shrewdly seek" refuge in Him.

4.U' We shall all seek refuge in Siva, the ancient

Purusa^, the lord, of excellent features, greater than the

greatest, the supreme self, the great one resorting to
penance.

564

Sivapurana

Brahma said : —

42. Thus urged by the great lord Visnu they set out
desirous of seeing the Pinaka-bearing lord Siva.

43. At first Visnu and others who were anxious to see
the penance of Parvati went to her hermitage which was on
the way.

44. On seeing the excellent penance of Parvati and
being enveloped by her refulgence they bowed to her who
was engaged in penance and who had brilliant features.

45. After praising the penance of Parvati whose body
was achievement personified, the gods went to the place
where the bull-bannered lord was present.

46. After reaching there the gods sent you in, O sage,
and stood at a distance from Siva who had reduced Kama
to ashes. They were watching.

47. O Narada, you the fearless devotee of Siva
approached Siva and saw the lord extremely pleased.

48. O sage, you came back again and beckoning to
the gods, with effort you took them, Visnu and others, to
Him.

49. Then Visnu and other gods went there and saw
ldrd Siva, favourably disposed to His devotees, delighted and
comfortably seated.

50-51. Then Visnu, the gods, the Siddhas, the sages
and I bowed to and eulogised Siva seated in the Yogic
posture, surrounded by the Ganas. He was seated in the
form of penance. We eulogised Him with hymns from the
Vedas and Upanisads.

CHAPTER TWENTYFOUR

{Siva consents to many Parvati)

The gods said : —

1. Obeisance to lord Siva, obeisance to the destroyer
of Kama; obeisance, obeisance to one worthy of eulogy;
to one of profuse splendour, to the three-eyed lord.

2. Obeisance to Siva clad in skin; obeisance to the

Rudrasamhita

565

terrible, to the terrible-eyed, to great lord and to the lord of
the three worlds.

3. You are the lord of worlds; you are the father,
the mother and the lord; you are Siva the benefactor. You
are particularly compassionate.

4. You are the creator of all the worlds; O lord, you
shall save us. O great God, except you who else is compe-
tent to destroy misery ?

Brahma said : —

5. On hearing these^words of the gods, NandikeSvara
who was endowed with great sympathy began to inform
Siva.

Nandikeivara said : —

6. O foremost among the gods, Visnu, other gods, the
sages and Siddhas eulogise you in order to see you. They
are being threatened by Asuras. Hence they seek some
remedy and resort to thy feet, the seat of great fearlessness.

7. Hence, O lord of all, the sages and the gods shall
be protected by you. You have been particularly mentioned
as the kinsman of the distressed and favourably disposed
towards your devotees.

Brahma said : —

8. Siva, who was thus informed by Nandin and who
was extremely sympathetic, slowly reverted from His medi-
tation and opened His eyes.

9. Then lord Siva, the highly efficient great Atman,
reverted from His trance and spoke to the gods.

Siva said . —

10. "O great gods, Visnu, Brahma and others, why
have you come near me ? Mention the reason for the,
same."

Brahma said : —

11. On hearing these words of Siva, all the gods rejoic-
ed. They looked at Visnu as if to induce him to speak.

12. Then Vi§nu, the great devotee and benefactQi; of

566

Sivapurana

the gods mentioned the matter of great importance of the
gods as mentioned by me (before).

Visnu said : —

13. "O Siva, all the gods have come here to submit to
you their misery perpetrated mysteriously by Taraka.

14-15. O Siva, the demon Taraka will be killed only by
your self-begotten son and not otherwise, Ponder over whit
I have said and take pity on me. Obeisance, O great lord,
to you. O lord, redeem the gods from the misery brought
about by Taraka.

16. Hence, O lord Siva, Parvati shall be accepted by you
and grasped with your right hand. Accept her hand as offered
in marriage by the lord of mountains. She is full of noble
attributes .

17. On hearing those words of Visnu, Siva was pleased
and said indicating to them the goal of the good, eager in
Yogic feats as He was.

Siva said : —

18-19. "If goddess Parvati, the most beautiful lady were
to be accepted by me, she will be able to resuscitate Kama
on account of the marriage. Then all the gods, sages and
ascetics will become lusty and incompetent in the great
path of Yoga.

20. Kama was burnt by me for the achievement of
universal goal. It was at the suggestion of Brahma, O Visnu.
No anxiety need be felt in this connection.

21. O lord of gods, O intelligent one, it is your duty
not to be obdurate after considering the situation of what
shall be done and what not.

22- O Visnu, a great favour to the gods has been
done by me when Kama was burnt. May ye all stay free
from lust certainly along with me.

23. Just as I, so also you, O gods, can without effort
perform difficult tasks being endowed with the energy of great
penance.

24. Kama not being with you, you can be endowed
with the supreme bliss and be free from aberrations by means
of spiritual contemplation, O Gods.

Rudrasdrhhita

567

25. O Brahma, O Visnu, O Indra, O sages and O
gods, what had been done by Kama formerly and forgotten
by you may be recollected and pondered over.

26. O gods, meditation of everyone had been spoiled
by the stubborn Kama, the great archer formerly.

27. Kama leads to hell; lust to anger, anger to delusion
and delusion destroys penance.

28. Anger and lust shall be eschewed by you, the best
of gods. My words shall be heeded by you all and not
otherwise.

Brahma, said : —

29. After saying thus, the bull-bannered lord Siva expres-
sed the wish that Brahma, Visnu, the gods and the sages,
should speak.

30. Siva became quiet after resorting to meditation
again. Siva, as before, was surrounded by His Ganas.

31-33. Siva thought within Himself His own Soul, the
form that is unsullied, free from distortions, aberrations and
ailments, the form which is greater than the greatest, eternal,
free from sense of possession, free from obsessions, beyond the
ken of sounds and words, devoid of attributes and knowable
through perfect wisdom. Thinking upon His own features
thus in His meditation, the lord, the cause of great enjoy-
ment and protection became engrossed in supreme bliss.

34. On seeing Siva again engaged in meditation all
the dwellers of heaven, Visnu, Indra and others, humbly told
Nandin.

The gods said : —

35. What shall we do now ? Siva has become deta-
ched and has gone on meditation. You are a comp-
anion of Siva and pure assistant. You are omniscient.

36. O chief of the Ganas, we seek refuge in you.
Please guide us. What is the remedy by which Siva can be
propitiated ?

Brahma said : —

37. O sage, thus urged by the gods, Visnu and others,
Nandin, the favourite Gana of Siva replied to the gods.

568

Sivafmraria

NaniUvara said : —

38. O Visnu, O Brahma, O Indra, O gods and O
sages, pay heed to my words gratifying to Siva.

39. If you persist still in your wish that Siva shall
marry, you shall eulogise with respect and piteous request.

40. O gods, great lord cannot be made subservient by
ordinary devotion. The supreme lord does even what shall
not be done when moved by extraordinary devotion.

41. O Brahma, Visnu and other gods, then act accor-
dingly, otherwise go the way you have come. Tarry not.

Brahma said : —

42. O sage, on hearing his words, Visnu and other
gods, considering that it must be so, eulogised Siva with
pleasure.

43. O great lord, lord of the gods, O ocean of mercy,
lift us up from the great distress. Save us who have sought
refuge in you.

Brahma said : —

44. Thus the gods eulogised Siva with many piteous
entreaties. They cried loudly being agitated by their
devotion-

45. Visnu accompanied by me spoke out many piteous
words, remembering Siva with great devotion.

46. Siva was thus eulogised by the gods, Visnu and me.
He, the great lord, ceased His meditation due to His attach-
ment for His devotees.

47. The delighted Siva said heightening the pleasure
of Visnu and other gods, after glancing at them with merci-
ful looks. Siva is favourably disposed to His devotees.

Siva said : —

48. O, Visnu, O Brahma, O Indra and other gods, why
have you all collectively come here in my presence ? Tell
me the truth.

Visnu said : —

49. O great lord, you are omniscient. You are the

Rudrasarfikita

569

immanent bein<* and the lord of all. Don't you know what
is in our mind ? Still I speak at you bidding.

50. O Siva, many kinds of miseries have befallen us
due to the demon Taraka. It is for that that you have
been propitiated by the gods.

51. For attaining you Siva, is born of mountain
Himacala. The demon's death can be at the hands of your
son alone begotten of her.

52. This is the boon granted to him by Brahma.
Incapable of being killed by others, the demon harasses the
entire universe.

53. At the instance of Narada, she is performing a
great penance. All the three worlds consisting of the mobile
and immobile beings have been enveloped by her refulgence.

54. O lord Siva, please go and grant Siva the boon.
O lord, destroy our misery and bestow happiness on us.

55. O Siva, there is a great enthusiasm in my heart as
well as in those of the gods to witness your marriage. Please
get it performed in a fitting manner.

56. The opportune moment for the fulfilment of the
boon granted by you to Rati has arrived. Make your promise
fruitful.

Brahma said : —

57. After saying this and bowing to and eulogising Him
with different hymns, Visnu, the gods and the sages, all of us
waited in front of Him.

58. On hearing the words of the gods Siva, subservient
to His devotees, laughed and replied. Siva is a strict pres-
erver of Vedic conventions.

Siva said : —

59. O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, all of you please hear
with attention. I am going to say a specific thing in a suit-
able manner.

60. Marrying is not a proper thing for men. Marri-
age is a great fetter that binds firmly.

61. There are many base bondages in the world.
Association with women is the toughest of all. One can
free oneself from all bondages except that of women.

570

Sivapurana

62. Anyone bound with nooses of iron and timber can
secure release but one bound with nooses of women never
frees oneself.

63. Worldly enjoyment tightens the bondage. Salva-
tion is inaccessible to a man drawn to worldly enjoyment
even in his dream.

64. If he wishes for happiness, an intelligent man shall
duly forsake all worldly pleasures. Worldly enjoyment that
dooms persons is on a par with poison.

65. O Indra, a man attains downfall even by conver-
sing with a sensuous person. Great preceptors say that
worldly enjoyment is a bitter beer mixed with sugar.

66. Although I know and realise all these, although I
have specific wisdom yet I shall accede to your request and
make it fruitful.

67. I am definitely subservient to my devotees. Hence
I may do everything. I am known all over the three worlds
as one who performs ill fitting things.

68. The vow of the king of Assam (Kamarupa) 85 was
made fruitful. I saved king Sudaksina who had become a
hireling and a prisoner.

69. I am the three-eyed God who bestows happiness
but brought about the misery of Gautama. I especially curse
those wicked persons who harass my devotees.

70. I have the feelings of endearment towards devotees.
I drank up poison for the welfare of the gods. O gods, the
miseries of the gods have always been removed by me.

71. For my devotees, I experienced many sufferings. I
removed the misery of the sage VisVanara by becoming a
householder.

72. What is the use of talking much ? O Visnu, O
Brahma, I speak the truth. All of you know truly that I
have vowed as follows.

73. Whenever any devotee of mine is involved in any
adversity I remove it instantaneously and completely.

74. I know the sufferings you undergo from the demon
Taraka. I shall remove them. Truth, I tell you the truth.

, 35- .Kamai-iipa was also known as Pragjyotisa. The designation
applies to the country now called Assam. In ancient days it comprised
the north-eastern part of Bengal and the western portion of Assam.

Rudrasamhita

571

75. Although I am not interested at all in dalliance I
shall marry Parvati for begetting a son.

76. O gods, all of you go back to your respective
abodes fearlessly. I shall achieve your task. In this respect
you need not be anxious at all.

Brahma said : —

77. O sage, after saying this, Siva became silent and
entered into spiritual contemplation. Visnu and other gods
went back to their respective abodes.

CHAPTER TWENTYFIVE

( The seven celestial sages test Parvati)

Narada said : — -

1. When Brahma, Visnu and other gods had gone along
with the sages what happened thereafter ?

2- O dear one, what did Siva do? Within what time
did He go to grant the boon ? How ? Please tell me for
my pleasure.

Brahma said : —

3. When Brahma and other gods had gone back to
their respective abodes, Siva entered into spiritual contempla-
tion in order to test her penance.

4. He meditated upon His own soul within Himself,
the Atman that is greater than the greatest, free from illusion
and obsessions and stationed within itself.

5. The bull-bannered lord Siva, the object of the ex-
pression That,* whose movements are unknown, is the cause
of enjoyment and protection. Siva is the lord Supreme.

Brahma said : —

6. O dear then, Parvati was engaged in great penance.
Even Siva wondered at that.

7. He became distracted from spiritual contemplation.
A deity subservient to His devotees cannot be otherwise. Siva,

* It refers to the formula "that are you", identifying the soul
with the supreme soul.

572

Sivapurdna

the cause of great enjoyment and protection remembered the
seven celestial sages, Vasistha and others.

8. Immediately on being remembered, the seven sages 36
came there with faces beaming with delight and praising
their good fate.

9. Bowing to Him with folded arms and bent
shoulders they eulogised lord Siva with extreme pleasure by
means of words choked with devotional feelings.

The seven sages said: —

10. "O great God, lord of gods, O lord, O ocean of
mercy, we have become very well blessed since we have been
remembered by you now.

11. Why have we been remembered ? We may
kindly be commanded. O lord, have pity on us as on your
own slaves. Obeisance be to you.

Brahma said : —

12. On hearing the words of the sages, lord Siva,
the storehouse, of sympathy spoke lovingly and laughingly with
eyes beaming like full-blown lotus.

Lord Siva said : —

13. O dear seven celestial sages, listen to my words.
You are all my benefactors. You are clever and perfectly
wise.

14. The great Goddess Parvati, the daughter of the
mountain is performing a penance now in the mountain
called Gaurisikhara, with a steady mind.

15- O brahmins, she is desirous of attaining me as
her husband. She is being served by her maids. She
has discarded all other desires. She is determined in her
resolve.

16. O excellent sages, you go there at my bidding.
With love in mind, conduct the test of her resolve.

17. O virtuous ones of good rites, at my bidding,

• 36. The seven sages viz. MarTci, Atri Angiras, Pulastya, Pulaba,
Kratu and Vasistha are represented by a group of seven stars called Ursa
Major.

tiudrasamhitd

573

you need not hesitate to employ even deceitful and critical
remarks.

Brahma said : —

18. Thus commanded, those sages quickly went there
where the mother of universe, the brilliant daughter of the
mountain, shone with refulgence.

19. There she was seen as the personified achieve-
ment of penance itself. She was shining brilliantly with great
splendour.

20. Mentally bowing to her, the seven sages, of good
rites, humbly spoke to her after being warmly welcomed and
worshipped by her.

The sages said : —

21. O daughter of the mountain, listen. Why do you
perform this penance ? Which god do you wish to
propitiate ? For what purpose ? Please tell us now.

Brahma said : —

22. Thus addressed by the brahmins, the goddess
Siva, daughter of the lord of mountains, replied truly before
them though it was a great secret.

Pdrvati said : —

23. O great sages, listen to my words with hearty
affection. I am saying only what I thought in my own
way.

24. On hearing my words you will laugh at me consi-
dering my proposal impossible. O brahmins, I hesitate in
revealing it but what can I do ?

25. This mind of mine is resolute helplessly attempt-
ing at a great task. Verily it is trying to erect a high wall
on the surface of water.

26. At the bidding of the celestial sage I am per-
forming this steady penance with the desire that Rudra be
my husband.

27. The unfledged birdling of my mind flies up
tenaciously. May lord Siva, the storehouse of mercy fulfil
its desire.

574

SivapuraTia

Brahma said : —

28. On hearing her words, the sages honoured Parvatl
mentally with pleasure but spoke these deceptive false words
laughingly.

The sages said : —

29. O daughter of the mountain, although you are
wise and intelligent, you are not able to see through the
conduct of that celestial sage who professes to be a great
scholar but who is cruel-minded.

30. Narada is a quibbler. He misleads others. If his
words are paid heed to, you stand to lose in every
respect.

31. Now listen to a true anecdote that sheds light
thereon, with keen intellect. We are enlightening you out
of love and affection, take it to heart.

32- Daksa, the son of Brahma, at the bidding of his
father, begot ten thousand sons of his wife. He dearly loved
them and employed them in performing a great penance.

33. The sons went to the holy lake Narayanasaras 37
in the western zone for performing penance. Nosing it out,
Narada too went there.

34. Sage Narada misled them with his deceptive
instructions. At his instance, they never went back home to
their father.

35. On hearing this, Daksa was infuriated but his
father consoled him. Thereafter he begot a thousand other
sons and engaged them in penance.

36. The sons too went to the same place for penance
at the bidding of their father. Narada too went there, a
self-appointed instructor for them.

37. He gave them the same instruction and they went
the way of their brothers. They never returned to the
parental abode. They were engrossed in the avocation of
mendicants.

38. O daughter of mountain, the good conduct of
Narada is thus well-known. Now hear about another activity
of his in making men detached.

37. The Narayana lake has not been identified. Probably it is a
lake of the Narayana hill, near Badrinath in Garlrwal.

Rudrasarhhitd

575

39. There was a Vidyadhara named Citraketu. The
sage instructed him and made him detached from his
house.

4-0. He bestowed his instructions on Prahlada and
made him suffer much at the hands of Hiranyakas"ipu. He
is definitely a person who splits others' intellect.

41. Whomsoever this sage advocates his philosophy,
very pleasing to the ears, generally the same person discards
his hearth and home and begins to beg for alms.

42. Naxada has a dirty soul though he is endowed
with a white brilliant complexion for ever. We know him
particularly because we are his associates.

43. People from a distance may describe a stork as a
gentle bird that does not prey on fish. But in fact an
associate knows the conduct of his associates.

44. You too who are honoured by the wise have
followed his advice and thus become a fool. That is why
you are performing this severe penance.

45. O young lady, He, for whose sake you are per-
forming this elaborate penance is a perpetually indifferent
person of no emotional disturbance. Undoubtedly He is an
enemy of Kama.

46. The trident-bearing Siva has an inauspicious
body, is free from shame and has no home or pedigree. He
is naked and ill-featured. He associates with ghosts and
goblins and the like.

47. That rogue of a sa^e has destroyed your discretion
with his deception. He has deluded you with apparently good
arguments and made you perform this penance.

48. O great Goddess, daughter of the mountain, you
alone think within yourself how much pleasure could be
derived by getting such a bridegroom.

49. At first he married Sati, the chaste daughter of
Daksa, eagerly but the fool that he was he could not maintain
the household even for a few days.

50. He accused her and forsook her Himself. The lord
went on meditating on His own form, free from stains and
sorrows and sported happily.

51. He is single without a second and without attach-

576

Sivapurana

ment. He is after salvation, O gentle lady, how can a woman
put up with him.

52. O blessed one, even now, at our bidding, return to
your house. Cast off this foolish intention. You will benefit
thereby.

53. A befitting bridegroom for you is lord Visnu end-
owed with all good qualities. He is a resident of Vaikuntha, 38
lord of wealth and is skilled in sports.

54. O Parvati, with him we shall fix your marriage
that will confer all happiness on you. Leave off this obduracy.
Be happy.

Brahma said : —

55. On hearing these words, Parvati, the mother of the
universe, laughed and spoke to the wise sages.

Parvati said : —

56. O excellent sages, what you have said may be
true according to your light and wisdom; but O brahmins,
my tenacity cannot be affected.

57. Being born of a mountain, toughness is congenital
to my body. Pondering over this with a short intellect you
will please desist from preventing me.

58- I shall never discard the wholesome advice of the
celestial sage. Vedic scholars know and affirm that the
advice of a preceptor is wholesome.

59. Those who firmly believe that the advice of the
preceptor is true will experience great happiness here and
hereafter. They will have no unhappiness anywhere.

60. Those who distrust the maxim in their heart cf
hearts that the advice of preceptors is true will experience
nothing but misery here and hereafter, no happiness anywhere.

61. O brahmins, the advice of the preceptors is not to
be eschewed at all. Whether it leads to the attachment of
a household or otherwise, my tenacity will remain pleasing to
me for ever.

62. O excellent sages, what you have just spoken shall

38. Vaikuntha, also called Vaibhra, is the abode of Visr.u variously
described as situated on the eastern peak of Mount Meru or in the
Northern ocean.

Rudrasarhhita

577

be interpreted in another way. I shall explain it in brief.

63. When you glorify Visnu as the abode of noble
qualities or as a sportive deity T do not contradict. As to
your statement that Sadasiva is devoid of attributes I shall
tell you the reason.

64. Siva is Brahman, unchanging and without aberra-
tion. He assumes shapes and forms for the welfare of his
devotees. He does not make a show of worldly lordship.

65. Therefore he assumes the attitude and behaviour
of great Yogins. Siva is a supreme bliss personified and an
Avadhuta in form.

66. Interest in embellishment and ornaments shall be
found in those who are deluded by illusion and who are not
in unison with the Brahman. The lord is devoid of attributes,
unborn, free from illusion, of invisible movement and a
cosmic Being.

67. O brahmins, Siva does not shower His blessings
on the ground of faith, caste etc. I know Siva truly only
through the blessings of the preceptor.

68. O brahmins, if Siva does not marry me I shall
remain for ever a virgin. Truth, I tell you the truth.

69. Even if the sun were to rise in the west, even if
the mountain Meru were to move; even if the fire were to be
cool and even if the lotus were to bloom on a rock at the
top of a mountain, my stubbornness cannot be nullified.
I am telling you the truth.

Brahma said : —

70. After saying thus and bowing to those sages, the
daughter of the mountain stopped and remembered Siva with
an unruffled mind-

71. On realising the resoluteness of Parvati, the sages
hailed her and bestowed excellent blessings upon her.

72. O sage, after bowing to the goddess, the sages
who wanted to test her. were delighted. They immediately
returned to Siva's abode.

73. Having reached the place they informed Siva of
all the details. Taking leave of Him with respect, they went
to the heaven-

578

Sivapurdna

CHAPTER TWENTYSIX

[Parvati-Jatila dialogue)

Brahma said : —

1. When those sages returned to their abodes, lord
Siva, the cause of great enjoyment and protection wanted to
test the penance of the goddess.

2. Under the pretext of testing, Siva wanted to see her.
With a delighted mind He assumed the form of a Jatila (an
ascetic with matted hair) and went to the forest of penance
of Parvati.

3. He took the form of a very old man with the body
of a brahmin. His brilliance shone. He was delighted in
mind. He had an umbrella and a staff (to support Him) .

4. There He saw the goddess surrounded by her maids
on the platform, as pure as the digit of the moon.

5. Siva, who Is favourably disposed towards His devo-
tees, approached her with pleasure in the guise of a celibate.

6. On seeing that brahmin of wonderful refulgence
come, goddess Parvati worshipped Him with all the articles
of worship.

7. She worshipped him with great joy by means of
well prepared and arranged articles of worship. Thereafter
Parvati enquired after the health of the brahmin with respect.

Parvati said : —

8. Who are you and whence have you come in the
guise of a Brahmacarin ? You are making this forest reful-
gent by your splendour. Please speak, O foremost among
Vedic scholars.

The brahmin said : —

9. I am an aged brahmin roaming about as I please.
I am an intelligent ascetic bestowing happiness and helping
others.

10. Who are you ? What is your parentage ? Why
do you perform penance in this isolated forest ? Your penance
cannot be surpassed even by the sages of eminent status.

11. You are neither a small girl nor an old woman.

Rudrasarhhitd

579

You appear to be an auspicious young woman. How is it
that you are performing this penance even when you are un-
married.

12. O gentle lady, are you the wife of an ascetic who
does not provide you with food and shelter and so leaving
you has gone to another place ?

13. Tell me, in which family are you born? Who is
your father ? What are your undertakings ? You are very
fortunate. Futile is your interest in penance.

14. Are you the mother of the Vedas ? Are you Lak-
smi or SarasvatI ? I dare not guess who you are ?

Parvati said :—

15. O brahmin, I am not the mother of the Vedas,
nor Laksml nor SarasvatI. I am the daughter of Himacala
and my name is Parvati.

16- Previously I had been born as Satl, the daughter of
Daksa. By Yogic means I cast off my body since my hus-
band was insulted by my father.

17. Even in this life, Siva came to me but due to ill
luck, He reduced Kama to ashes, left me and went away.

18. O brahmin, when Siva went away, I came out
of my father's house, being greatly dejected, to perform
this steady penance on the banks of the celestial river. sa

19. Even after performing this severe penance for a
long time, I could not attain Him. I was just to consign
myself to fire but on seeing you, I have stopped for a while.

20. Now you can go. I shall enter fire since I have
not been accepted by Siva. Wherever I take birth I shall
woo only Siva.

Brahma said : —

21. After saying so, Parvati jumped into the fire in the
presence of the brahmin although she was forbidden by Him
again and again.

39. The celestial Ganga is said to flow from the toe of Visnu and to
have been brought down from heaven, by the prayers of Bhagiratha to
purify the ashes of the sixty thousand sons of king Sagara who had been
burnt by the angry glance of the sagaKapila.

580

Sivapurfina

22. Even as she jumped into the fire, it became as
cool as sandal paste due to her ascetic power.

23. The brahmin stopped her standing on her way as
she was trying to go away and asked her laughingly.

The Brahmin said : —

24. O gentle lady, I cannot understand anything.
Your penance is wonderful. Your body is not charred by
the fire. Still your desire remains unsatiated so far.

25. O gentle lady, let me know about your desire; I
am a brahmin who can bestow pleasure upon everyone.

26. Please tell me everything truly and methodically.
Since we have become friends nothing should be kept a secret
from me.

27. I wish to ask you now. O gentle lady, whom do
you wish to have as your husband ? It is in you that the
fruit of penance is seen.

28. If your penance is for others or for the supreme
object, wherefore should you perform it at all ? You had
a jewel in your hand, you cast it off and have taken up a base
metal instead.

29. Why have you rendered your beauty in vain by
taking recourse to this penance that eschewing different sorts
of fine clothes hide is worn by you.

30. Hence tell me the reason, truthfully, for this
penance. Let me, a great brahmin, be pleased on hearing
the same.

Brahma said : —

31. Thus asked by him, Parvati urged her maid. She
of good rites made everything narrated to him through her
maid.

32. Induced by Parvati, her bosom friend Vijaya who
knew all about her good rites spoke to the ascetic.

The maid said: —

33. O saintly sir, listen. I shall recount the story of
Parvati as well as the reason for penance, if you wish to
hear.

34. This my friend is the daughter of Himacala, lord

Rudrasarhhita

581

of mountains. She is the daughter of Menaka. named Ka.ll
but famous as Parvati.

35. She is not married to anyone nor does she desire
any other than Siva for her husband. She has performed this
penance for three thousand years.

36. It was for that purpose that my friend started
penance like this. I shall tell you the reason. Listen, O
excellent brahmin, O saintly one.

37. Leaving off Indra and other gods, Visnu and
Brahma, Parvati wishes to attain the Pinaka-bearing Siva as
her husband.

38. She my friend planted many trees before. O
brahmin, all of them have put forth flowers and fruits.

39-40. My friend has been performing severe penance
at the bidding of Narada to make her beauty fruitful, to
embellish her father's race and to bless Kama. She has
directed this penance to lord Siva. O holy ascetic, how is it
that her desire is not fulfilled.

41. O excellent brahmin, you enquired of her desire.
I have just told you out of my love for her. What else do
you wish to hear.

Brahma, said : —

42. On hearing these truthful words of Vijaya, O sage,
Siva who came disguised as an ascetic said laughingly.

The ascetic said : —

43. The maid has said something, but I deduce only
a huge joke therefrom. If it be true, let the gentle lady
herself speak out.

Brahma said : —

44. When these words were uttered by that brahmin
ascetic, goddess Parvati spoke to the brahmin thus.

>j Sivapurana
CHAPTER TWENTYSEVEN

(Description of the fraudulent words of the
Brahmacarin)

Parvati said :• —

1. O great brahmin, listen to my story entirely. What
my friend has said just now is the whole truth, not other-
wise.

2. I am telling you the truth and not a lie. Siva
has been wooed by me, by mind, speech and action as well
as by means of ascetic feelings.

3. I know that it is an inaccessible object. How can
I attain it ? Still out of my eagerness I am performing this
penance.

Brahma said : —

4. After saying these words to him, the daughter of
the mountain kept quiet. On hearing the words of Parvati
the brahmin said.

The brahmin said : —

5. So long I had been desirous of knowing what
our gentle lady craves for that she performs this great
penance.

6. O dear lady, I have now known it through your
own words. I am now going away from this place. You
can do as you please.

7. What should be done by you is not mentioned
by me. To me your further friendship is useless. But this
should be mentioned that your future should be happy.

Brahma said : —

8. After saying these words to her when he proposed
to go, goddess Parvati bowed to and spoke to the
brahmin.

Parvati said : —

9. "O excellent brahmin, why do you go ? Stay

Rudrasamhita

583

and tender me wholesome advice". When she said thus,
the staff-bearing brahmin stopped and spoke.

The brahmin said : —

10. If you are stopping me with devotion, truly
desirous of hearing then I shall explain everything whereby
you may gain some wisdom.

11. I know Siva through and through with all His
weighty attributes. I shall tell you the truth. Listen with
attention.

12- The great lord is bull-bannered. His body is
smeared with ashes. His hair is matted. He is clad in the
hide of a tiger. He has covered His body with the hide of
an elephant,

13. He holds the skull. Serpents twine round His
limbs. Poison has left a mark on his neck. He eats even
forbidden stuffs. He has odd eyes and is definitely
awful.

14. His birth and pedigree cannot be traced. He is
devoid of the enjoyment of a householder. He has ten
arms. He is mostly naked and is ever accompanied by ghosts
and goblins.

15. What is the reason whereby you wish Him to be
your husband ? O gentle lady, where has your wisdom
gone ? Think well and tell me.

16. A previous terrible activity of His has been heard
by me. If you are interested in hearing I shall tell you.

17. Daksa's daughter, the chaste lady Sati wooed
Vrsabhavahana. (Siva) as her husband. Fortunately their
union was well known.

1 8. Sati was discarded by Daksa because she was the
wife of the skull-bearing Siva. Siva too was eschewed in the
allocation of shares in the sacrifice.

19. On account of the insult Sati was infuriated and
she discarded her dear life. Siva too was abandoned by
her.

20. You are a jewel among women. Your father is
the king of all mountains. Why do you crave for a hus-
band like this and that too by means of a severe penance ?

2 1 . Handing over a gold coin you wish to buy a piece

584

Sivapurai}a

of glass. Setting aside the pure sandal paste you wish to
smear mud over your body.

22. Unmindful of the sunlight you wish to have the
light of the glow worm. Throwing away the fine China 50
silk you wish to wear the hide.

23. Discarding the life at home you yearn for a life in
the forest, O madam, throwing away excellent treasure you
wish a piece of iron in return.

24. Leaving off the guardians of the quarters you run
after Siva. This is not well said It is against the conven-
tions of the world.

25. Where you with eyes like the petals of a lotus ?
Where this three-eyed creature — Siva ? You are moon-faced
while Siva is five-faced. *

26. On your head the divine plaited hair shines with
glossy splendour like a serpent. But Swa has only the
matted hair to boast of.

27. Sandal paste is applied on your body, while the
ashes of the funeral pyre on that of Siva. Where your silken
garment and where the elephant-hide of Siva.

28. Where the divine ornaments and where the serpents
of Siva ? Where the deities that move about and where
Siva, fond of goblins and their oblations ?

29. Where the pleasing sound of his tabor ? Where
His peculiar drum called Damaru ? Where the set of fine
drums and the inauspicious sound of his horn ?

30. Where the inauspicious sound of double drum and
where the sound of his throat ? There is no matching
beauty between you both.

31. If He had money to spare how could He have
been a naked being ? His vehicle is a bull. He has no other
appendages.

32. There is not even a single quality in the odd-eyed
Siva out of the innumberable qualities pleasing to women
and expected in bride-grooms.

33. Your friend Kama was burnt by Siva. He insulted
you also by leaving you off and going elsewhere.

50. The Chinese silken cloth is mentioned also by Kalidasa in the
Sakuntala I. 34.

*On the five-faced feature of Siva see Note 35 P. 46

Rudrasamhitd

585

34. His caste is not recognised. He has no learning
or wisdom. His assistants are the ghosts. Poison is seen even
in His throat.

35. He also moves about in isolation. He is detached
from everything particularly. Hence you cannot fix your mind
in Him.

36. Where your necklace and where the garland of
skulls that he wears ? Where your rich divine unguent and
where the ash from the funeral pyre that He has on His
body ?

37. O divine lady, everything concerning you and
Siva, such as form, features etc. is mutually discordant. I do
not like your resolution. You can do whatever you please.

38. You yourself have evolved taste for all bad ob-
jects. Turn your mind from Him. If not, do whatever you
please.

Brahma said: —

39. On hearing these words of that brahmin, Parvati
said angrily to the brahmin who discredited Siva.

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT

( Parvati sees fova's real form)

Parvati said : —

1 . So long I have been thinking that some one else
has come. Now everything has become clear. You are a
person who cannot be killed.

2. O lord, what has been said by you is known. It is
not otherwise. If what has been said by you is real, it can-
not be called unreal.

3. Sometimes lord Siva is seen in that guise. But He is
the supreme Brahman who, out of his own accord, takes up
bodies in his own sports.

4. You have now come in the form of a student ascetic
for the sake of deceiving me. Using false arguments, you have
spoken fraudulent words.

586

Sivapurana

5. I know the real form of Siva very particularly. I shall
therefore explain Siva's reality in the proper perspective after
careful consideration.

6. He is in fact devoid of attributes. But for some re-
sons He takes up attributes. How can He have a birth, he
who is really attributeless but takes up attributes ?

7. SadaSiva is the support and receptacle of all lores. Of
what avail is learning to Him who is perfect and the supreme
soul ?

8. At the beginning of the Kalpa, all the Vedas were
given by Siva to Visnu in the form of breath. Who can be
a good lord equal to Him ?

9. How can He be measured in age, He who is pri-
mordial to everything and everyone. Even primordial nature
.{Prakrti) is born of Him. Of what avail is then Energy to
Him ?

10. With the threefold Energies, 41 Siva blesses those who
worship Him always as the lord of Energies.

11. Every individual soul becomes fearless and conquers
death by worshipping Him. Hence His designation 'the con-
queror of death' is famous in all the three worlds.

12. Visnu attains and retains his Visnuhood by His
favour. Similarly Brahma his Brahmahood and the gods
their godhood.

13-14 Whenever the lord of the gods wants to see Siva
he has to propitiate His gate-keepers, the ghosts etc., otherwise
his crown becomes shattered by batons. Really Siva is a great
lord. He has no need for many attendants.

15. What is it that cannot befall one who serves
the auspicious -featured Siva. What is deficient in that lord ?
Does Sadasiva like me ?

16. Even if a person is perpetually poor for seven lives,
after serving Siva, his prosperity becomes unhampered.

17. How can he find benefit inaccessible-he in whose
presence the eight Siddhis 42 (achievements) dance always for
the sake of propitiation with speechless mouths or with lowered
faces.

* ,-- 41- The three elements of Energy consist of (1 )pre-eminent position,
(2) good counsel and (3) adventurous undertaking.

42. On the eightfold superhuman faculties, see Note 203. P. 335.

Rudrasarhhitd

587

18. Although Siva resorts to inauspicious things yet by
thinking on Him everything becomes auspicious.

19. His worship fulfils all desires. How can there be
aberration in Him who always remains in an unmodified state.

20. People are sanctified by merely seeing the person in
whose mouth the auspicious name "Siva" is ever present.

21 . If, as you say, the ash from the funeral pyre is unholy,
how is it that the same transferred to Siva's body is taken
thence and worn on the head by the gods ?

22- How can He be easily realised, He who is the deity
that creates, sustains and annihilates the worlds, all the
same who is devoid of attributes and is termed Siva ?

23. The form of Siva, the supreme soul, is that of
Brahman, devoid of attributes. How can people like you
know it, people with extrovert faces ?

24. Persons of evil conduct, sinners and those who
have gone astray from the path of the gods do not at all know
the reality of Siva of attributeless form.

25. If, out of ignorance of His reality, anyone were to
discredit Siva, his merit hoarded ever since birth becomes
reduced to ashes.

26. You have censured Siva of immeasurable splendour
and I have worshiped you, hence I have become sinful.

27. On seeing a person who hates Siva one should take
bath along with one 's clothes. On seeing a person who hates
Siva one should perform expiatory rites.

28. O wicked one, you profess knowledge of Siva. But
you should know that the eternal Siva is not known at all.

29. Whatever may be the form or feature of Siva, He is
multiformed. Still He is my favourite. He is without aberration
and beloved of the good.

30. Neither Visnu nor Brahma can equal that noble
soul. How can then the gods and others be ? They are al-
ways dependent on Time and are not eternal.

31. After realising this with my sharp intellect factually,
I have come to this forest and am performing the elaborate
penance for attaining Siva.

32. My ambition is to attain the supreme lord who
is favourably disposed to. His devotees and who blesses the
distressed.

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Sivapurana

Brahma, said: —

33- After saying this, O sage, Parvati, the daughter of
the mountain, stopped and meditated on Siva with unaffected
mind.

34- 35. On hearing the words of the goddess when the
brahmin ascetic began to say something, Parvati whose mind
was fixed on Siva and who was averse to hear any dis-
paraging remarks about Siva spoke immediately to Vijaya,
her maid.

Parvati said : —

36. This base brahmin must be prevented strenuously.
He is inclined to say something again. He will surely
censure Siva.

37. Not only does he who disparages Siva incur sin
but also he who hears the same. 48

38. A person who disparages Siva is definitely worthy
of being killed by Siva's attendants. If it is a brahmin he
must be dismissed or the hearer shall go away from that
place immediately.

39. This wicked man will again disparage Siva.
Since he is a brahmin, he is not to be killed. He shall be
abandoned. He shall not be seen at all.

40. Let us leave this place at once and go elsewhere.
Do not tarry. Let there be no more talk with this ignorant
man.

Brahma said : — •

41. Saying this, O sage, even as Parvati was about
to step ahead, the brahmin manifesting as Siva clasped his
beloved.

42. After assuming the handsome form in the manner
Parvati had meditated upon and manifesting it to Parvati,
Siva addressed her while she stood with her lowered
head.

43. For the similarity of ideas and verbal expression, compare
Kalidasa's Kumara V. 83.

kudrasarfihita

Siva said : —

43. "Where will you go, leaving me ? You are not to
be discarded again by me. I am delighted. Tell me what
boon shall I grant you. There is nothing that cannot be
given to you.

44. From today I am your slave bought by you by
performing penance. 44 I have been bought by your beauty.
Even a moment appears like a Yuga.

45. O Parvati, O great Goddess, you are my eternal
wife. Let this shyness be eschewed. You please ponder
with your keen intellect.

46. O steady-minded one, you have been tested by
me in various ways. Let my guilt be excused in following
this worldly game.

47. Even in the three worlds I do not see a beloved
like you. O Parvati, in every respect I am subservient to
you. You can fulfil all your desires.

48. O beloved, come on near me. You are my wife.
I am your bridegroom. I shall immediately go to my
abode — the excellent mountain, along with you.

Brahma said : —

49. When the lord of the gods spoke in this way,
Parvati rejoiced. Whatever distress she had felt during
penance she cast off as something old.

50. O excellent sage, her weariness subsided. In fact,
when the fruit is realised, the exertion felt during the
process of undertaking perishes.

CHAPTER T WENT YNINE

(Siva-Siva dialogue )

Narada said : —

1. O Brahma, O fortunate one, what happened there-
after ? I wish to hear everything. Please narrate the glory
of Parvati to me.

44, For the similarity of ideas and verbal expression, cp. Ibid V. 86.

590

Sivapurdna

Brafima said : —

2. O celestial sage, let this be listened to. I shall
resume the story joyfully, the story that quells all sins and
increases devotion to Siva.

3. O brahmin, on hearing the words of Siva, the
great Soul and on seeing His pleasant form and features
ParvatI was delighted much.

4. The highly chaste lady, goddess ParvatI replied to
the lord standing near with great pleasure and face beaming
with love.

Parvati said : —

5. O lord, O lord of gods, you are my husband.
Has it been forgotten by you why yoa destroyed the sacri-
fice of Daksa formerly with great tenacity ?

6. Listen, O lord of gods, I am born of Mena. for
the achievement of the task of the gods terrified to the quick
by Taraka.

7. O lord of gods, if you are delighted, if you are
sympathetic, O lord, become my husband. O lord do as
I say.

8. With your permission I am going to my father's
abode. Let your pure great glory be made well known.

9. O lord, you will please go to Himavat. Clever in
divine sports, be the mendicant and beg of him, me as your
alms.

10. Spreading your glory in the worlds you shall make
everything about my father fruitful. Thus you start your
householder's life.

11. There is no doubt that my father with his kinsmen
will accede to your request as he has already been urged by
the sages lovingly.

12. Formerly as Daksa's daughter I was offered to you
by my father. But the marriage rites were not duly perfor-
med then.

13. The planets were not worshipped by my father.
Therefore a great defect occurred in our marriage in regard
to the planets.

14. Hence, O lord, you will celebrate marriage in

kudrasarhhita

59 1

accordance with the rules for the fulfilment of the task of the
gods.

15. The customary procedures of the marriage shall
certainly be followed. Let Himavat know that an auspicious
penance has been performed well by his daughter.

Brahma said: —

16. On hearing these words, Sadasiva was highly deli-
ghted. Laughingly and lovingly He spoke to Parvati.

Siva said —

17. O great Goddess, listen to my important statement.
See that our marriage rites are performed in the proper
manner without deficiency.

18. O sweet-faced one, all the living beings Brahma
and others are non-eternal. O beautiful lady, know all these
visible things to be perishable.

19. Know that the single beings assumed manifold
forms. The attributeless took over the attributes. That
which is self-luminous had other lights imposed on it.

20. O gentle lady, I, the independent, have been
made subservient by you. You alone are the great illusory
power, the Primordial nature that creates.

21. This entire universe has been made of illusion;
it is held by the supreme soul with His great intellect. It is
united and enveloped by the Ganas of the nature of per-
vading souls of meritorious deeds, akin to the nature of supreme
soul.

22. What are these planets ? What are these sets of
seasons ? What are those other planets ? o gentle lady,
what is said by you, O fair-complexioned one.

23. We two have created the universe different in
attributes and actions for the sake of the devotees and with
a disposition favourable to them.

24. You are indeed the subtle primordial nature
consisting of Raj as, Sattva and Tamas. You are capable of
perpetual activity. You are both possessed and devoid of attri-
butes.

25. O slender-waisted lady, of all living beings I am

592

favapurana

the soul without abberation without yearnings, I take up
bodies at the requests and wishes of my devotees.

26. O daughter of the mountain, I will not go up to
Himavat your father. I will not become a mendicant and
beg of him for you.

27. O daughter of the lord of mountains 3 even a
weighty person endowed with great qualities, even a noble
soul, is considered base immediately after uttering the words —
"Please give me".

28. O benevolent lady, after knowing this what is it
that you say is our duty ? Gentle lady, do as you wish.

Brahma said: —

29. Thus addressed, the great goddess, the chaste lady
of lotus-like eyes told Siva with devotion after bowing to
Him again and again.

Pdrvati said: —

30. "You are the cosmic soul and I am the cosmic
nature. There is nothing to deliberate on this. We two are
independent and subservient to the devotees. We two are
both possessed and devoid of attributes.

31. O lord Siva, with effort, you will please do accord-
ing to my request. O Siva, beg of Himavat for me, You
will bestow a fortune on him.

32. O great lord, be sympathetic. I am your devotee
for ever. I am your wife for ever in ever birth.

33. You are Brahman, the great soul, devoid of attri-
butes greater than primordial nature, without abberration, free
from yearnings, independent, great lord.

34. Still you are possessed of attributes too and enth-
usiastic in the uplift of the devotees. You sport about in
your own soul engrossed in it and you are clever in your
different sports.

35. O great lord, I know you in every respect. O
omniscient, of what avail is a detailed talk. Take pity on
me.

36. Spread your glory in the world indulging in your
wonderful divine sports. Singing them, O lord, people can
cross the ocean of worldly existence.

Rudrasamhita

59$

Brahma said: —

37. After saying these words to the great lord, Parvati
stopped and bowed to Him frequently with shoulders stoop-
ing and palms joined in reverence.

38. Thus addressed by her, Siva of the noble soul,
just to follow and imitate the worldly conventions thought that
it should be so. Being desirous of doing so he rejoiced.

39. Then Siva vanished. With a great delight He
went to Kailasa but at His separation from Parvati his
mind was distressed.

40. After reaching there He mentioned the news to
Nandin and others. He was very much delighted.

41. Those Ganas, Bhairava and others were greatly
pleased. They celebrated the occasion with great festivities.

42. O Narada, all went on auspiciously. All misery
was at an end. Siva too was in a pleasant mood.

CHAPTER THIRTY

( The Celebration of Parvati' s Return)

Narada said; —

1. O Brahma, O dear, of great fortune, you have the
real vision and are blessed. This wonderful story was heard
by me, thanks to your blessings.

2. When Siva returned to His mountain, O intelligent
one, what did Parvati allauspicious do and where did she go ?
Please tell me.

Brahma said: —

3. O dear, listen with pleasure to what happened there-
after when Siva returned to His place. I shall mention it,
remembering Siva,

4. Accompanied by her maids and assuming meaning-
ful dress and features she returned to her father's house repea-
ting the name of lord Siva.

5. On hearing that Parvati was returning, Mena and

594

Sivapuraiia

Himavat excessively delighted went ahead seated in a divine
vehicle.

6-7 The chief priest, the citizens, the maids, the kins-
men and also others accompanied them. All the brothers
with Mainaka, the eldest, accompanied them highly delighted
and crying shouts of victory.

8-12. The auspicious waterpot was placed in the main
highway decorated with sandal paste, aguru, musk and
branches of trees with fruits. The priests, brahmins and sages
reciting the Vedas, dancing girls, all went ahead seated on lofty
elephants to receive her. All round stumps of plantain trees
were fixed. Women along with their sons and husbands held
lamps in their hands. Brahmins were shouting mantras etc.
in an auspicious voice. Various instruments were played.
Conch shells were sounded. In the meantime Parvati reached
the outskirts of the city. Entering the city she saw her parents
again.

13. On seeing the parents rushing at her in their great
delight, she gladly bowed to them along with her maids.

1 4. They gave her their blessings and embraced her.
Saying "O darling," they shed tears in their excitement of
love.

15. Women near and dear as also the wives of her
brothers embraced her closely with great pleasure.

16. "A great task has been well accomplished by you.
It has saved the whole family. All of us are sanctified by
your noble conduct".

17. Praising her with these and similar words they
bowed to her with great delight. They worshipped her with
sandal paste and sweet scented flowers in great joy.

18. At that time the gods, seated in their aerial chariots
in the sky, showered auspicious flowers, bowed to and eulog-
ised her with hymns.

19. Then the Brahmins and others joyfully took you
within the city in a resplendent chariot.

20. Then the brahmins, the maids and other women
took her within the house with due honour.

21. O great sage, ladies performed her ceremonial
ablution; the brahmins offered benedictions. Himvat and
Menaka rejoiced much.

kudrasamhita

595

22. Himavat considered his household life fruitful. A
daughter is far better than an ignoble son. He praised you
too, Narada, saying "Well done, Well done".

23. The lord of the mountains gave monetary gifts to
brahmins and lords. He made the brahmins recite auspicious
hymns, as part of the festivities.

24. The parents delighted with their daughter; the
brothers and the sisters gathered joyfully in the courtyard, O
sage.

25. The happy and delighted Himavat, honoured every-
one. Then he went to the Gahga for his bath.

26. In the meantime, Siva, favourably disposed to His
disciples and prone to divine sports, assumed the guise of a
dancer and approached Menaka.

27-28. He held the blowing horn in his left and the
drum in his right hand. He wore a red cloth and had the
wallet suspended behind his back. In the guise of a dancer
with the skill of dancing and singing, he danced well and
sang many songs in sweet voice.

29. He blew the horn and played on the drum in
very sweet tunes. Everything was very pleasant.

30 All the citizens men, women, children and old
folks assembled there to witness the performance.

31. O sage, on hearing the sweet songs, and seeing
the delightful dance, the people entered into raptures of
ecstacy.

32-35 Parvati became unconscious. She saw Siva's
handsome form, bearing trident and other symbols before her
vision. He had smeared the ashes all over His body. He
was wearing a garland of bones. His face was beaming with
his shining three eyes. He had the sacred thread of a serpent.
Exquisitely white in complexion, the handsome lord Siva, the
friend of the distressed, the ocean of mercy was repeating the
words "Choose the boon (or the bridegroom)." On seeing
Him thus in her mind she bowed to Him. Mentally she had
chosen the boon when she had said, "Be my husband".

36. And He had granted her the auspicious boon with
pleasure and vanished. The mendicant now continued the
dance.

596

ivapurana

37. Men a who was greatly delighted took gems and
jewels in gold vessels in order to give them to Him.

38. But the dancer did not accept the gifts. He re-
quested for the hand of Parvati and began to dance and sing
again.

39. Mena was surprised on hearing his words and she
was furious. She rebuked the mendicant and wished to
drive him out.

40. In the meantime the lord of mountains returned
from the Ganga. He saw the mendicant in the human form
in his court-yard.

4 1 . On hearing the details from Mena he became very
angry. He ordered his attendants to drive out the dancer.

42. But, O excellent sage, none of them could push
him out as he was hot to the touch like a blazing fire and
very brilliant.

43. O dear, then the mendicant who was clever at
diverse sports showed his endless great power to the mountain.

44. The mountain saw him immediately transmuted in
to the form of Visnu the four-armed, with crown earrings
and yellow garment.

45. Flowers etc. which had been offered to the mace-
bearing lord, Visnu, at the time of worship, he saw on the
body and over the head of the mendicant.

46. Then the lord of mountains saw the four-faced
deity, the creator of worlds, red in colour and reciting the
Vedic hymns.

47. Then the lord of mountains saw the form of the
sun, the eye of the universe, much to his enthusiastic amaze-
ment.

48. Then, O dear one, he saw him in the wonderful
form of Siva accompanied by Parvati. He was smiling and
shining beautifully.

49. Then he saw him in the form of a mass of splen-
dour of no specific shape. It was unsullied, free from pecu-
liar attributes and desires. It was wonderfully formless.

50. Thus he saw many forms and features there. He
was surprised and delighted much.

51. Then the chief of mendicants begged of Himavat

RudrasarhkitS

597

and Mena the hand of Parvati as alms. He, the source of
great enjoyment did not accept anything else.

52-54. The lord of mountains deluded by Siva's magic
did not accede to this request. The mendicant too did not
take anything. He vanished from the scene. Then Himavat
and Mena realised that Siva had deceived them and gone to
His abode. After some pondering, they developed a feeling
of devotion to Siva who is the cause of salvation, the
bestower of divine bliss.

CHAPTER THIRTYONE

(Description af Siva's magic)

Brahma said: —

1. On knowing their undistracted great devotion to
Siva, O Narada, Indra and other gods, thought like this.

The gods said : —

2. If the mountain were to give his daughter to Siva
with singleminded devotion he will attain salvation immedia-
tely and will disappear from Bharata. 45

3. The mountain is the storehouse of endless gems. If
he were to leave off the Earth and go, the name of the
Earth — Ratnagarbha (having gems in the womb) — shall be a
misnomer.

4. He will cast off his immobile aspect and assume a
divine form. He will give his daughter to the Trident bear-
ing deity and will go to Siva's region.

5. He will undoubtedly attain mergence into lord Siva,
having enjoyed pleasures there, he will attain salvation.

Brahma said: —

6. Thinking like this and consulting one another they,
in their bewilderment, decided to send god Brhaspati there.

45. Bharata, the land of Bharatas, derives its name from the Bharatas,
an ancient powerful Aryan tribe mentioned in the Rgveda.

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Sivapurana

7. O Narada, then Indra and other gods, went to Brhas-
pati's abode lovingly with humility, in their eagerness to
achieve their self-interest.

8. Reaching therej all the gods including Indra bowed
to Brhaspati and submitted every detail to him.

The gods said : —

9. O revered preceptor, please go to the abode of
Himavat for the fulfilment of our task. After going there, you
shall make disparaging remarks about the trident-bearing
deity.

10-11. Parvati will not marry any other person except
Siva. The mountain will derive the benefit only after some-
time if he gives the daughter in marriage without his full
concurrence. Let the mountain stay on earth for the present.
O preceptor, you shall make him stay on the earth as he is
the support of many gems.

Brahma said : —

12. On hearing these words of the gods, the preceptor
of the gods, plugged his ears with his hands. He did not
accept the proposal of the gods. He remembered the name
"Siva".

13. Then remembering lord Siva, Brhaspati 16 of liberal
mind rebuked the gods again and again and said.

Brhaspati said : —

14. All of you gods seem to be selfish in nature.
You want to destroy other's interests. Indeed I will go to
hell by disparaging Siva.

15. O gods, one of you shall go to the mountain.
Let him urge the lord of the mountains and achieve the
desired object.

16. Let him stay in Bharata after giving his daughter
without willingness. It is certain he will attain salvation if
he gives his daughter with devotion.

17. Afterwards the seven celestial sages will properly

46. Brhaspati is designated as the family priest of divine community.
He is the preceptor of the gods and intercedes on their behalf with the
triad — Brahma, Visrui and Siva, seeking their support.

Rudrasartihita"

599

persuade the mountain. Except Pinaka-bearing deity, Parvati
will not marry any other person.

18. Or, O gods, all of you go to Brahma's region
taking Indra with you. Xell Brahma all your details. He
will get your work done immediately.

Brahma said : —

19. On hearing it and consulting among themselves
the gods came to my Assembly. After duly bowing to me
they informed me about the details.

20. On hearing the words of the gods about censuring
Siva, O sage, I the reciter of the Vedas spoke to them in an
aggrieved tone.

21. "Dear children, I am incompetent to decry Siva.
It is unbearable. It destroys all riches. It is the seed of
all adversities.

22. O gods, all of you go to Kailasa and propitiate
Siva. Make Him go to Himavat's abode quickly.

23. Let him approach the lord of mountains and make
disparaging remarks about Himself. Rebuking others is
conducive to destruction. Rebuking oneself is conducive to
fame".

24. On hearing my words, all the gods, joyously
bowed to me and went to Kailasa, the chief of mountains.

25. Going there and seeing Siva they bowed to Him
with bent heads and palms joined in reverence. The gods
eulogised Siva.

The gods said : —

26. O great lord, lord of gods, O Siva, the merciful,
we seek refuge in you. Be sympathetic. Obeisance be to
you.

27. O lord, you are favourably disposed to your
devotees, always carrying out their tasks. You are the
uplifter of the distressed, and an ocean of mercy. You save
us from all our miseries and distresses.

Brahma said : —

28. Eulogising lord Siva thus, Indra and other gods
respectfully submitted all the details.

600

Sivapuraifa

29. On hearing the words of the gods, lord Siva
agreed to the proposal. He made the gods return after
assuring them smilingly.

30. Hastening to their abodes, the gods rejoiced much
considering their work fully fulfilled and praising Sadasiva.

31. Then the lord Siva who is favourably disposed
to his devotees, the lord of magic and free from aberrations
went to the lord of mountains.

32-33. When the lord of the mountains was seated in
his royal assembly along with Parvati and kinsmen, Sadasiva
came there, in the meantime bearing a staff and an umbre-
lla. He was dressed in divine clothes and had a shining mark
on the forehead.

34. He was in the guise of a saintly brahmin. He
was repeating the name of Visnu with devotion. He had the
garland of crystal beads in his hand and the Salagrama stone
round his neck.

35. On seeing that extraordinary guest, Himavat with
his attendants stood up in reverence and prostrated before him
with devotion.

36. Parvati bowed with devotion to her dear lover in
the guise of a brahmin. On realising him mentally the godd-
ess eulogised him with great joy-

37. With great pleasure Siva bestowed his blessings on
all. O dear, He bestowed on Parvati her cherished desire in
addition.

38. The brahmin received with pleasure the articles of
homage 47 etc- offered by Himavat, the lord of mountains.

39. O sage, after duly worshipping the excellent bra-
hmin with pleasure, the mountain Himavat enquired of his
welfare.

40. Again, the lord of mountains asked him "Who are
you, please ?" Immediately the chief of brahmins, spoke to
the lord of mountains thus.

The chief of brahmins said: —

41. O foremost among mountains, I am a brahmin

47. Madhuparka is a mixture of honey, butter, sugar, curd and
water offered to a guest when he first comes to the house.

Rudraiarhhitd

601

devotee of Visnu, and a great scholar. My occupation is that
of a match-maker. I roam about on the earth.

42. I go where I wish. I go everywhere. By the
power of my preceptor I am omniscient. I am simple-minded
and by nature I help others and I am sympathetic and quell
aberrations.

43. I have come to know that you desire to give your
daughter to Siva, this daughter so tender like a lotus flower,
of divinely excellent form and endowed with all accomplish-
ments.

44-47. To Siva — who has no support, who is devoid
of associations, who is deformed, who is without attributes,
who resides in the cremation-ground, who has the
form of a snake-catcher, who is a Yogin, who is naked, who
has deficient limbs, who wears snakes as his ornaments, whose
name and pedigree are unknown, whose conduct is bad, who
has no sport, whose body is smeared with ashes, who is furi-
ous, who lacks in discrimination, whose age is not known,
whose matted hair is ill worn, who supports all who roam
about, who has garland of snakes who is a mendicant,
who is engaged in following wrong-paths and who tenaciously
discards the Vedic path.

48. O mountain, this inclination of yours is not at all
conducive to auspiciousness. O foremost among the wise, born
of Narayana's family, learn sense.

49. For the marriage of ParvatI, He is not at all a des-
erving person. On hearing of this, the general public will
smile in derision.

50. O lord of mountains, see for yourself. He has
not a single kinsman. You are the storehouse of great gems
-and jewels. He has no assets at all.

51. O lord of mountains, you shall consult your kins-
men, sons, wife and wise counsellors, except Paxvatl.

52. O lord of mountains, the medicine does not appeal
at all to the patient. Wrong diet that brings about great
defects always appeals to him.

Brahma said: —

53. Saying this, the brahmin stopped. He took food and
left the place with pleasure for his abode. Siva is one who
quietly indulges in His divine sports.

602

Sivapurana

CHAPTER THIRTYTWO

{The seven celestial sages arrive)

Brahma said: —

1. On hearing the words of the brahmin, Mena spoke
to Himavat with tears welling up in her eyes, due to grief and
with the heart extremely dejected.

Mend said: —

2. O lord of mountains, please listen to my words con-
ducive to happiness. Please consult important devotees of
Siva regarding what has been mentioned by the brahmin.

3. Many disparaging remarks about Siva have been
made by this brahminical devotee of Visnu. O lord of mou-
ntains, on hearing these words, my mind is very much dejected.

4. O lord of mountains, I shall not give my daughter
endowed with all good accomplishments to Siva with ugly
features, ignoble conduct and defiled name.

5. If you do not accede to my request, I shall undou-
btedly die. I will immediately leave this house or swallow
poison.

6 . With a rope I shall tie Parvati round my neck and
go to a thick forest. I would rather drown myself in the
great ocean. I shall never give my daughter to him.

7. Saying thus with great grief, Mena entered the
chamber of anger. Casting off her necklaces she lay down
on the ground sighing and sobbing.

8. O dear, in the meantime all those seven celestial
sages were remembered by Siva whose mind was agitated by
the pangs of separation from Parvati.

9. All those seven sages, 48 as soon as they were remem-
bered by Siva, came there in person as though they were an-
other set of wish-yielding Kalpa trees.

10. Arundhati too came there as though she was an
achievement personified. On seeing them resplendent like the
sun, Siva stopped his recitation of mantras.

11. O sage, standing in front of Siva and bowing to

48. On the seven sages, see Note 164 P. 163.

Rudrasamhita

603

and eulogising Him, the seven sages of great austerity consi-
dered themselves blessed.

12. Then, as they were struck with surprise, they join-
ed their palms in reverence, bowed to and addressed Siva
adored by all the worlds : —

13. The sages said: — "O most excellent of all, O great
ruler, O Emperor of the heaven-dwellers, how can our fort-
une which is very excellent be described by us ?

14-15. Formerly we had performed three kinds of pen-
ance; we had studied the excellent Vedas ; we had made
offerings in the fire, we had visited many holy centres; thus
whatever merit we have acquired verbally, mentally and
physically that entire merit has now accrued to us by your
blessing in remembering us.

16. A man who worships you always shall be blessed.
How can that merit be properly described, the merit of those
whom you yourself remember ?

17. O Sadasiva, we have become the most excellent
of all people by your remembering us. Usually you never
even come across the path of ambitions and aspirations of
ordinary people.

18-19. O lord, your vision, very difficult to be acquired,
is like the fruit stooping down within the reach of the dwarf,
like sight to a man born blind, like eloquency acquired by
a dumb man, like the indigent meeting with a treasure-
trove, like the lame man reaching the top of a high mountain
and like the barren woman bearing a child.

20. By seeing you today we have become the most
respectable sages worthy of the worship of all the worlds. We
have reached the highest position.

21. O lord of gods, by seeing you who are the lord of
all gods we have become worthy of great respect. There is
no necessity of talking more.

22. If any duty is assigned to us it will be a favour
to us. An auspicious task befitting us, your utter slaves,
shall be given to us.

Brahma said : —

23. On hearing their words, Siva the great lord, in
conformity with the conventions of the world, spoke these

604

Sivapurdna

pleasant words: —
Siva said : —

24. Sages are always to be adored and particularly you
all. O brahmins, it was for a specific reason that you have
been summoned here.

25. My attitude of being helpful is known to you.
That must be achieved, especially in the interest of the fulfil-
ment of the desires of the world.

26. Cause for great misery has arisen for the gods at
the hands of Taraka the wicked. Boon has already been
granted. He is invincible. What shall I do ?

27. O great sages, all the eight cosmic bodies 49 that I
possess are not for furthering my self-interestj they are for
helping the wide world.

28-29. A great penance has been performed by Parvati.
That cannot be performed even by great sages. I have to
give her the great fruit thereof. Indeed my vow is to render
delight to my devotees. The fruit I bestow on her shall be
conducive to her welfare. Hence I wish to marry her.

30. At the request of Parvati I went to the abode of
the mountain in the guise of a mendicant. Clever in divine
sports I thereby sanctified her.

31. On hearing to know that I am the supreme
Brahman, the couple were desirous of giving me their
daughter with great devotion in accordance with the Vedic
manner.

32. On the inducement of the gods, in order to reduce
the quality of devotion (of Himavat and Mena) I took the
guise of a devotee of Visnu and rebuked myself.

33. O sages, on hearing it they were dejected and
have now lost interest in me and do not wish to give their
daughter to me.

34. Hence you all go to the abode of Himavat and
urge the excellent mountain and his wife.

' 35. Speak out the words as venerable as the Vedas.
Do everything necessary to get the matter straightened out
and settled.

. . 36. O excellent ones, I wish , to marry their daughter.

■ -, - -49,- -On the eightfold image of Siva, see Note £9 P. 13a. .

tiudrasarhhita

605

I have agreed to marry her and have already granted her
that boon.

37. What is the use of talking too much ? Himavat
must be convinced. Mena too must be convinced similarly, so
that the purpose of the gods shall be served well.

38. Whatever mode is selected by you shall be more
than necessary. The task is yours. You alone are the sharers of
the credit.

Brahma said : —

39. On hearing these words, the seven sages of pure
mind became delighted and thought themselves blessed by
the lord.

40. "We have become blessed and contented in every
respect. We have become venerable to every one, especially
adorable.

41. He who is worthy of being respected by Brahma
and Visnu, he who secures everything accomplished is sending
us, his emissaries on an errand that is conducive to the
happiness of all the worlds.

42. He is the master of the worlds and their father.
She is considered the mother. Let this proper alliance
increase for ever like the moon".

43. Saying thus the celestial sages bowed to Siva
and went by aerial path in the direction of the city of
Himavat.

44. On seeing that city of heavenly splendour, the
sages were surprised. Expatiating on their good fortune they
spoke to one another.

The sages said : —

45. We are really blessed and meritorious in being
able to see this city 50 because we have been engaged in a
task like this.

46. This city seems to be better than Alaka, 61 heaven, 42

50. Himavatpura is probably identical with Ausadhiprastha, the
capital of Himavat. See Note 10. P. 490.

51. See Note 226 . P. 265.

5a. It signifies the heaven of Indra which is supposed to be situated
on Mount Mem.

606

Sivapurana

Bhogavati 58 and even Amaravati 54 .

47. The houses are beautiful and well-built. The
courtyards are well laid out and paved with different kinds
of crystals and jewels of variegated colours.

48. Slabs of solar and lunar stones are found in every
house. Different kinds of celestial trees are also growing
here.

49. The splendour of festoons is also seen in every
house. They are of different colours and sorts with shapes
of parrots and swans carved on the walls of the palaces.

50. The canopies with hanging festoons are of diverse
character. There are many Jakes and ponds.

51. The gardens and parks are of various kinds
frequented by delighted people. Here men are like gods
and the women are like the celestial damsels.

52. In the land of activities (i.e. Bharata), the sacri-
ficial priests and the followers of Puranas perform holy rites
with a desire to attain heaven. That is in vain because they
have left off the city of Himavat.

53. Men are eager to go to heaven only as long as
this city is not seen. O brahmins, when this city is seen
what is the use of heaven ?

Brahma said : —

54. Describing the city thus all those excellent sages
went to the rich and well-furnished abode of Himavat.

55. On seeing those seven sages, resplendent like the
sun, coming along the aerial path from a distance, Himavat
was surprised and said : —

Himavat said : —

56. The seven venerable persons, resplendant like the
sun, are approaching me. These sages shall be worshipped
by me now.

57. We householders are really blessed, to whom great
men like these, bestowing happiness on all, pay their visit.

53. It is the subterranean capital of the Nagas in the Nagaloka
portion of Patala.

54. It refers to the famous city 0 f Indra, supposed to be situated on
Mount Meru.

Rudrasamhita

607

Brahma said : —

58. In the meantime they descended on the ground
from the sky. On seeing them Himavat advanced to
welcome them.

59. With palms joined in reverence he bowed to them
with stooping shoulders and worshipped them with due
respect and honour.

60. Desiring welfare of others, the seven sages embra-
ced Himavat, the lord of mountains and spoke words of
auspicious blessings with pleasant faces.

61. Keeping them ahead he said — "My household
life is blessed". With great devotion he got and offered
them seats.

62. When they were duly seated, he too sat with
their permission. Then Himavat spoke to the refulgent
sages : —

Himavat said : —

63-64. I am blessed. I am contented. My life is
fruitful. I am the best person worthy of being seen in the
three worlds. I am as pure as any of the holy centres.
All this is because you, verily in lord Visnu's forms, have
come to my abode. Perfect ones such as you, what special
purpose can there be in visiting poor persons like me ?

65. Still I am your servant. Some task there may be
to be entrusted to me. Mercifully may it be spoken out.
May my life be fruitful.

CHAPTER THIRTYTHREE

( The appeasement of Himavat)

The sages said : —

1. Siva is the father of the universe. Parvati is the
mother of the universe. Hence your daughter shall be given
to Siva, the supreme soul.

2. O Himalaya, by this activity your life will be

60S

&ivapurana

fruitful. You will become the venerable person of the most
Venerable jn the universe. There is no doubt about it.

Brahma said : —

3. O great sage, on hearing these words of the seven
sages, the lord of the mountains bowed to them with joined
palms and spoke ihus.

Himavat said : —

4. O ye seven sages of great enlightenment, what
you have just now said has been already cherished by me by
the will of Siva.

5. Now, a certain brahmin professing Vaisnava cult
came here and spoke very critically about Siva.

6. Ever since, the mother Parvati has gone out of sense.
Hences she does not wish her daughter's marriage with Siva.

7. She has entered the chamber of anger. She is
aggrieved and her clothes have become dirty. O brahmins,
her obduracy is so great that she does not pay heed to
any advice.

8. I too am, you can say, out of sense. I am telling you
the truth. I do not wish to give my daughter to Siva who
is apparently a mendicant.

Brahma said: —

9. O sage, after saying these words, the king of moun-
tains deluded by Siva's magic became silent and sat amidst
the sages.

10. The seven celestial sages praised the magic of Siva
and sent ArundhatI 56 to Menaka.

11. Then at the bidding of her husband ArundhatI,
the bestower of knowledge, went quickly to the place where
Mena and Parvati were sitting.

12. After going in she saw Mena lying in her grief.
The chaste lady spoke to her these carefully selected sweet
and wholesome words : —

55- She is the wife of Vasistha, one of the seven sages. In Hindu
Mythojpgy she is regarded as the highest pattern of conjugal excellence
and wifely devotion.

Rudrasamhita

609

Arundhati said:^-

13. O Menaka, get up. O chaste lady, I, Arundhati,
have come to your house. The seven sages of sympathetic
nature have also come.

Brahma said: —

14. On hearing Arundhati's voice, Mena. got up quick-
ly and bowed to her who was on a par with Laksml in her
brilliance.

Mena said: —

15. Ha, what a meritorious thing is this ! We are
blessed. Arundhati, the daughter-in-law of the Creator of the
universe, the wife of Vasistha, has come here.

16. O gentle lady, what for is your visit now ? Please
tell me specifically. My daughter and I are your slaves.
Be merciful to us.

Brahma said : —

17. Arundhati, the chaste lady thus addressed, advised
her in various ways and returned to the place where the
sages were seated.

18. Then they began to advise the lord of the moun-
tains, after thinking on the feet of Siva. They were clever in
speech and they spoke respectfully.

The sages said: —

19. O lord of the mountains, may our words, the cause
of everything auspicious, be heard. Give Parvati to Siva.
Become the father-in-law of the world-destroyer.

20. For the destruction of Taraka, formerly Brahma
requested. Siva who is the lord of all and who does not beg
of any one, to strive for this alliance.

21. Siva, the foremost of Yogins was not eager to
marry. But since requested by Brahma, the lord agreed to
take your daughter.

22. Parvati performed a penance and the lord pro-
mised her. Thus for these two reasons the lord of Yogins
wishes to marry her.

610

Brahma said : —

23. On hearing the words of the sages, Himavat laug-
hed but he was a little frightened. He spoke with humility.

Himavat said: —

24. I do not see any royal paraphernalia with Siva,
He has none to support him, He has no assets. He has no
kinsman.

25. I do not wish to give my daughter to a Yogin who
is extremely detached. O ye sons of the Creator of the Vedas
tell me decisively.

26. If a father were to give his daughter in marriage
to an unsuitable person, out of love, delusion, fear or covet-
ousness, he is doomed. He will go to hell.

27. Out of my own free will, I will not give her to the
trident-bearing Siva. O sages, whatever arrangement is
befitting here, may kindly be carried out.

Brahma said: —

28. O excellent sages, on hearing these words of the
mountain Himavat, Vasistha 66 , the most eloquent among
them replied: —

Vasiffha said: —

29. O lord of mountains, listen to my words in every
respect conducive to your welfare; they are not against virtue.
They are true and shall bring about your joy here and here-
after.

30. Statements, in ordinary language and in the Vedas,
are of three forms. A scholar knowing all lores understands
them by means of his pure vision of knowledge.

31. It is only an enemy, though keen in intellect, who
says what is pleasing to the ears now but what transpires to be
untrue and unwholesome afterwards. He never speaks whole-
some things.

56. Vasistha was one of the seven great sages and one of the ten
Prajapatis. There are several accounts about his origin. He is declared to
have been either a mind-born son of Brahma or the son of Mitra and
Varuna from Urvasl.

Rudrasarfikita

611

32. Only a virtuous and sympathetic friend will speak
such words as are unpleasant in the beginning but conducive
to happiness in the end.

33. But the third variety of behaviour nectarlike to the
ears, conducive to happiness on all occasions, essential and
truthful is considered to be the most excellent.

34. O mountain, these are the three types of behaviour
as mentioned in the treatises on polity. Tell me which type
of behaviour shall I adopt to please you.

35. Siva, the lord of gods, is devoid of riches created by
Brahma. But His mind is engrossed in the ocean of true
knowledge.

36. How can lord Siva who is knowledge-Bliss Him-
self have any desire for articles created by Brahma ? An
ordinary householder gives his daughter to one who has a
kingdom and riches in his possession ?

37. By offering his daughter to a miserable person, a
father may be guilty of slaughtering his daughter. Who can
think Siva miserable whose servant is Kubera ?

38. He is attributeless, supreme soul, great lord and
greater than Prakrti. He can create and annihilate things by
a mere sportive touch of His eyebrows.

39. His manifestations are threefold, He is the cause of
creation sustenance and annihilation in the names of Brahma
Visnu and Siva.

40. Brahma stays in Brahmaloka, Visnu in the milk
ocean, Siva in Kailasa, all these are the attributes of Siva.

41. The primordial nature, born of Siva, maintains three-
fold forms in the creative activity, partially out of sport with
diverse digits.

42 Vani, the deity presiding over the activity of speech,
is born of his mouth ; LaksmI, in the form of riches, is born
out of his chest.

43. Parvati manifested herself in the splendours of the
gods. After killing all the demons she granted riches and
glory to the gods.

44. In another Kalpa she was born of the womb of
Daksa's wife. Her name was Sati- She attained Siva. Daisa
gave her to Him-

45. By her Yogic power she cast off her body on hearing

6l2

about the insult to her husband. She is now born of you in
the womb of Mena.

46. This Parvati is the wife of Siva in every birth. In
every Kalpa she is the great cosmic intellect, mother of wise
men.

47. She is victorious always in the form of Siddha, the
bestower of Siddhi (achievement) and is Siddhi personified.
Siva carefully preserves the bones and ashes from the fun-
eral pyre of Sat!.

48. Hence, you give your daughter, this gentle lady to
Siva out of your own free will. Otherwise she will herself
go and surrender herself as his beloved wife.

49. Taking the firm decision on seeing her innumer-
able sufferings He came to the place of your daughter's
penance in the guise of a brahmin.

50. After consoling her and granting her the boon He
returned to His abode. It was for complying with her re-
quest that Siva requested you for the hand of Siva, O
mountain.

51. Both of you had accepted the proposal as you were
drawn by devotion to Siva. O lord of mountains, how is it
that your mind has taken a somersault now ? Please tell me.

52. On being requested by the gods, the lord has sent
us, the sages and Arundhati to you.

53. O mountain, we instruct you plainly. By giving
Parvati to Siva you will meet with great bliss.

54. O lord of mountains, even if you do not give
Parvati to Siva out of your own free will, their marriage
will take! place as a result of the inexorable workings of
fate.

55. O dear one, Siva has already granted Parvati the
boon at the time of her penance. A promise of Siva cannot
be turned topsyturvy.

56. Oh ! even the promise of ordinary good men act-
ing under the guidance of Siva cannot be transgressed in all
the worlds. O mountain, what then about that of Siva
Himself.

57. Working singlehanded, Lord Indra chopped off the
wings of mountains as though at play. Parvati too sportively
broke the peak of Meru.

Rudrasamhita

613

58. All riches can be sacrificed, O lord of mountains,
for the sake of a single entity, but the eternal Sruti has it
that one should forsake a single entity for the sake of a
unit.

59. When danger was imminent at the hands of a
brahmin, the chief of kings, Anaranya 57 , saved his entire asset
by giving his daughter to him.

60. When he was threatented by the curse of brahmin
his preceptors, wise kinsmen and people well-versed in the
science of polity advised him hastily.

61. O king of mountains, you too save your kinsmen
by giving your daughter to Siva. You can claim thus the
gods too to your side.

Brahma said : —

62. On hearing the words of Vasistha, Himavat, with
a dejected heart but laughing outwardly asked him about the
details of the story of the king.

Himavat said

63. O brahmin, what is the race to which the king
Anaranya belonged ? How did he save his assets by giving
his daughter ?

Brahma said : —

64. On hearing these words of the mountain, Vasistha
became glad and told him the details of the interesting story
of the king.

CHAPTER THIRTYFOUR

{The Story of Anaranya)

Vasistha said : —

1. The king Anaranya hailed from the race of the
fourteenth Manu Indrasavarni.

57. According to 3P. RS. Section III ch. 34, the King Anaranya
belonged to the lineage of the fourteenth Manu called Indra-Savarni. He
is said to have performed a hundred horse-sacrifices with Bhrgu as his offi-
ciating priest but did not accept Indra-hood-

614 Sivapuriina

2. The great king Anaranya, born of Mangalaranya*
was very strong. He was a special devotee of Siva and
ruled over the seven continents 68 .

3. Having Bhrgu as his priest he performed a hundred
sacrifices. He did not accept the position of Indra even
when offered by the gods.

4. O Hirnavat, hundred sons were born to him and
a beautiful daughter Padma who was equal to Laksmi.

5. O excellent mountain, he was more fond of his
daughter than of his hundred sons.

6. He had five queens who were endowed with great
qualities and fortunes and were loved by him over and
above his life.

7. The girl entered the prime of her youth in her
father's palace. The king issued letters of invitation for the
requisition of good bridegrooms.

8. In the meantime the sage Pippalada eagerly
hastening back to his hermitage saw a certain Gandharva in
an isolated place in the penance-grove.

9. The Gandharva was an expert in the science of
erotics. He was in the company of a woman. He was
therefore completely submerged in the ocean of pleasure,
sexual dalliance and was lusty.

10. On seeing him the great sage became very lustful.
He lost interest in penance and began to think of acquiring
a wife.

11. Thus the good sage spent a long time with his
mind utterly agitated by pangs of love.

12. Once while the good sage was on his way to the
river Puspabhadra.** for taking his bath he happened to seethe
young maiden Padma, who was as charming as goddess Laksmi.

13. The sage asked the persons standing by — "Who
is this girl ?" The people, afraid of the curse bowed to the
sage and replied.

* Contrast Pargiter AIHS PP.145, 246. Anaranya was born of Sam-
bhuta.

* * It has not been possible to identify this river.

58. It is a division of the terrestrial world. The number of these
divisions varies according to different authorities. It is usually seven. These
are situated round the mountain Meru like the petals of a lotus flower
and each being separated from the other by a distinct ocean. The central
one is Jambudvipa in which is included Bharata Khanda (India) .

Rudrasarhhita

615

The people said : —

14. This excellent lady, the repository of all good
qualities, is the daughter of Anaranya and is called Padma..
She is another Laksrm ( goddess of fortune) . She is being
wooed by great kings.

Brahma said : —

15. On hearing the words of the people who spoke
the truth, the sage became much agitated in the mind and
was eager to possess her,

16. O mountain, the sage took bath and worshipped
his favourite deity Siva duly. The lustful sage went to the
council-chamber of Anaranya for the sake of alms.

17. Immediately after seeing the sage, the king was
struck with awe and bowed to hirh. He offered him homage
( Madhuparka) * and devoutly worshipped him.

18. Out of love, the sage accepted everything and
ultimately requested for the hand of his daughter. The
king kept quiet, being unable to give any decisive reply.

19. The sage repeated his request saying — "O great
king, give me your daughter. Otherwise in a trice I will
reduce everything to ashes".

20. The king and his attendants were overwhelmed
by the splendour of the sage. Staring at the old emaciated
brahmin, they began to cry.

21. The queens, knowing not what shall be done,
lamented. The chief queen, the mother of the girl, fell
unconscious in the excess of her grief.

22. The brothers of the girl were agitated with sorrow.
O lord of mountains, everything and every one connected
with the king was overwhelmed with grief.

23. In the meantime the wise brahmin, the excellent
preceptor of the king, as well as his intelligent priest came
there.

24. The king bowed to them and paid homage. He
cried before them. He explained to them everything and
asked them what was the proper step to be taken
immediately.

♦See Note 47 P. 6oo

616

Sivapurdna

25-26. The brahmin, the preceptor of the king and the
scholarly priest were experts in sacred lore and polity.
They advised the king in that matter.
The preceptor and the priest said : —

27. O wise king, listen to our beneficial words. Do
not be anxious. In the company of your kinsmen turn your
good attention to the sacred texts.

28. O king, whether today or after a year, the
princess is to be given to a deserving person, a brahmin or
anyone else.

29. In the three worlds we do not see more deserving
person than this brahmin. Give your daughter to this sage
and save your riches.

30. O king, if all riches face the danger of destruction
due to one object or person, the wise man saves everything
by abandoning that object or person unless it be that who has
sought refuge.

Vasisfha said: —

31. On hearing the words of the wise, the king lament-
ed again and again but ultimately offered his daughter fully
bedecked in ornaments to the excellent sage.

32. O mountain, accepting and marrying the beautiful
maiden Padma, on a par with goddess Laksmi, in accordance
with holy laws, the delighted sage returned to his abode.

33. After giving his daughter to an old man, the king
was much dejected in mind. Abandoning everything he went
to the forest for performing penance.

34. O mountain, when the king went to the forest, the
queen, passed away, due to the pangs of separation from her
husband and daughter.

35. Without the king, the respectable sons and officers
of the king became unconscious. The other people thinking
that the king was dead lamented much.

36. Anaranya went to the forest, performed , great
penance, and worshipped Siva with devotion. In the end, he
attained Sivaloka free from all ailments.

37. The eldest son of the king, Kirtiman, virtuously
ruled over the kingdom and tended the subjects like his dwii
Children.

Rudrasarhhita

617

38. Thus, O mountain, I have narrated to you the
auspicious story of Anaranya, how he saved his race and his
wealth by offering his daughter to the sage.

39. O king of mountains, you too, give your daughter
to Siva, save the entire family and keep even the gods under
your control.

CHAPTER THIRTYFIVE

(The story of Padma and Pippalada)

JVarada said: —

1. O dear, what did the excellent mountain do after
hearing the anecdote of Anaranya and the marriage of his
daughter ? Please tell me.

Brahma said : —

2. After hearing the story of Anaranya including the
anecdote of the offer of his daughter, the lord of mountains
again asked Vasistha with palms joined in reverence.

The lord of mountains said : —

3. O leading sage Vasistha, O son of Brahma, O merci-
ful one, you have narrated the wonderful story of Anaranya.

4. What did Padma, the daughter of Anaranya, do after
marrying sage Pippalada . Please mention her story fully.

Vasistha said: —

5-6 The very old and venerable sage Pippalada returned
to his hermitage along with his wife Padma and passed time
in pleasure. He was not too much sensuous. He continued to
perform his penance and holy rites in the forest and on the
mountain.

7. The daughter of Anaranya served the sage devoutly
physically, mentally and verbally like LaksmI serving Visnu.

8. Once Dharma (Virtue) assumed the guise of a king
by his magical power and happened to see on the way that lady
of gentle smiles going to the celestial river for her holy dip. 69

59. Gf. Note 39 P. 579-

618

Sivapurana

9-1 0. The lord Dharma was seated in a beautiful
chariot studded with gems. He was bedecked in many kinds
of ornaments. He was in the prime of fresh youth, glorious
and lustrous like the cupid. On seeing Padma he spoke thus,
in order to know the innermost feelings of the sage's wife.

Dharma said : —

11. O beautiful woman, you are Laksmi herself; you
are charming, you are worthy of a king; you are in the very
prime of youth; you will be ever young; you are a lovely
sweet lady.

12. I am telling you the truth, O slender-limbed lady.
You lack lustre and colour in the presence of the sage Pippa-
lada who is old and weak.

13. Cast off that ruthless old brahmin always engaged
in penances. Look up to me a great king, heroic in sexual
dalliance and agitated by Kama.

14. A beautiful woman acquires beauty as a result of
the merit of a previous birth. The beauty becomes completely
fruitful only after embracing a man of aesthetic taste.

15. I am the lover of a thousand beautiful women. I
am an expert in the erotic science and literature. Abandon
that husband and make me your slave.

16. You can indulge in sexual dalliance in the beauti-
ful secluded forests, mountains and banks of rivers in my
company. Make your life fruitful.

Vasistha said : —

17. Saying this, he got down and was eager to catch
her hands. The chaste lady then addressed him thus.

Padma said: —

18. Away, away, go away you sinful king. If you
cast your lustful ogles at me you will be doomed in a trice.

19. How can I resort to you, lecherous and mad after
women, after forsaking the excellent sage Pippalada whose
body is sanctified by austerities ?

20. By the very touch of a person under the influence
of women all merits are destroyed. He is a great sinner.
His very sight promotes, sins,

Rudrasamhita

619

21. Even if he performs holy rites, a person succumb-
ing to the viles of women is always impure. The manes, the
gods and all men despise him.

22. Of what avail is knowledge, penance, repetition
of sacred mantras, sacrifice, adoration, learning and charitable
gift to him who is henpecked ?

23. Since you spoke to me viewing me with the feelings
that I am your wife although I ought to have been viewed
as your mother, you will have a gradual decline as a result
of my curse.

Vasistha s'aid: —

24. On hearing the curse of the chaste woman, O lord
of mountains, Dharma cast off the guise of a king and
assumed his real form. Tremblingly he spoke thus —

Dharma said: —

25. O mother, know me as Dharma elderly and vener-
able to men of wisdom and preceptors. O chaste lady, I
always consider other's wives as mothers.

26. It was to know your innermost feelings that I
approached you. I knew your mind, still I was urged by
fate.

27. Only proper suppression, not the contrary, is
carried out by you. Chastisement of those who go astray from
the right path is carried out by Siva Himself.

28. Obeisance to Siva who distributes happiness,
misery, boons, prosperity or adversity on all.

29. Obeisance to Siva who can make people enemies
or friends, create affection or quarrel, to generate or destroy
things.

30. Obeisance to Siva who has made milk white, who
has bestowed chillness on water and heat on fire.

31. Obeisance to Siva, by whom the primordial nature,
the principles Mahat etc, Brahma, Visnu, Siva and others
are created.

Brahma said: —

32. After saying thus Dharma, the most venerable god

620

Sivapurana

in the universe stood in front of her, stunned but delighted
at her chastity. But he did not say anything.

33. Princess Padma, the chaste beloved of Pippalada,
O mountain, was surprised on realising that it was Dharma
and said.

Padma said : —

34. O Dharma, you are the ever present witness of all
activities. O lord, why did you deign to deceive me to
know my mind ?

35. O Dharma, what has been done already does not
amount to any guilt on my part. You have been cursed in
vain by me but it was due to my ignorance and innate
nature of woman.

36. I am now thinking as to what shall be done about
it. May that idea strike me whereby I may get peace.

37. This sky, these quarters and the winds may get
destroyed but the curse of a chaste lady will never be
destroyed.

38. In the Satyayuga you shine with all the legs, O
king of gods, on all occasions, day or night, like the moon on
a full moon night.

39. If you are destroyed, the annihilation of all crea-
tions will occur. But a sense of helpless despair is unnecessary.
So I shall explain.

40. In the Tretayuga, one leg shall be defunct, O
excellent god. Another leg too shall be defunct in Dvapara
and the third one in the Kali age, O lord.

41. In the latter half of Kali, all the legs will be
chopped off. Again in the Satyayuga you will attain per-
fection.

42. In the Satyayuga you will be all-pervasive and in
the other Yugas partially so. Thus in accordance with the
Yugas, you will be maintaining your position.

43. Let these words of mine be true and pleasing to
you. I am now going to serve my husband. O lord, you
return to your abode.

6o. On the historical time as divided into four ages, called Yugas,
see Note 33 P. 43.

Rudrasathhita

62l

Brahma said : —

44. On hearing her words Dharma became delighted;
Then Dharma, the son of Brahma, spoke to the chaste lady
who had been speaking to him,

Dharma said : —

45-46. O chaste lady, you are blessed, you are devo-
tedly attached to your husband. Hail to you. Take this
boon. Your husband is the cause of your great protection.
Let him be a young man with sexual vigour and righteous-
ness. He shall be comely in appearance, good in conduct,
eloquent in speech and perpetually stable in youth.

47. Let him enjoy more longevity than Markandeya. 81
Let him be richer than Kubera. Let him enjoy more pro-
sperity and power than Indra.

48. Let him be a devotee of Siva on a par with Visnu.
Let him be a greater Siddha than Kapila 62 . Let him vie with
Brhaspati in intelligence and with Brahma in equanimity.

49. You will be blessed with all the fortunes of your
master as long as you live. Also you will be perpetually
young.

50. Undoubtedly you will become the mother of ten
sons who will be greater than your husband, they will have
all good qualities and live long.

51. O chaste lady, let your abode be endowed with all
riches, brightly illuminated always and superior to even the
abode of Kubera.

Vasistha said : —

52. O excellent mountain, after saying thus, Dharma
stood quiet there. She circumambulated him, bowed to him
and returned to her house.

53. Bestowing blessings upon her, Dharma returned to

61. He was the son of Mrkanda, remarkable for his austerities and
great age. He is represented as one of the seven persons who are considered
to be 'deathless'. Cf.

SR^qTTTr srfsrsqrftft f^TT^ fspftTT: I

62. He is represented as a celebrated sage and a founder of the
SSnkhya philosophy He is said to have destroyed the hundred thousand
sons of King Sagara with a glance.

622

Sivapura^a

his abode. He praised Padma, lovingly in every assembly he
visited.

54. She sported about in secret with her husband who
became a young man. She gave birth to sons who surpassed
her husband in their good qualities.

55. AH kinds of riches were granted to the couple
increasing their happiness. They were conducive to the pros-
perity here and hereafter.

56. O lord of mountains, this ancient story of the
couple has been narrated to you. You have heard the story
with pleasure and respect.

57. Knowing the real situation give your daughter
ParvatI to Siva. Cast off sins, O lord of mountains, in the
company of your wife Mena.

58-61. After a week there is a very auspicious hour
very rare to meet with. The presiding planet of the lagna is in
the lagna. The moon is in conjunction with his son, Mercury
as well as the constellation Rohini 63 . The moon and the
stars occupy pure positions. The month is Margaslrsa and
the day is Monday free from all defects. All the planets are
in auspicious conjunction. They are not aspected by the evil
planets. The Jupiter is in a position that is conducive to the
birth of a good child and all good fortune to the bridegroom.
O lord of mountains, give your daughter ParvatI, the mother
of the universe, the primordial Being to Siva, the father of
the universe. You will then get quiet and contentment.

Brahma said : —

62. After saying this, the excellent sage Vasistha, most
excellent of wisemen, stopped after remembering lord Siva,
the creator of divine sports of diverse varieties.

63. Rohini : the fourth of the lunar asterisms, tbe daughter of Daksa
and the wife of the moon.

Ructrasarhhita

623

CHAPTER THIRTYSlX

(The statements of the seven sages)

Brahma said: —

1. On hearing the words of the seven sages, Himacala,
his wife and attendants were very much surprised. The lord
of the mountains spoke to the other mountains.

Himacala said: —

2. O lord of mountains — Meru, 84 O Sahya. 85 O Gandha-
madana, 68 O Mandara," O Mainaka, 68 O Vindhya, 69 all of
you listen to my words.

3. Vasistha says like this. It is to he considered what
I shall do now. You consider well, decide and let me know.

Brahma said: —

4. On hearing his words, Sumeru and other mountains
decided carefully and spoke to Himalaya lovingly.

The mountains said: —

5. Of what avail is a long discussion and deliberation
now ? What should be done is only that. She is born only
for the purpose of the gods.

6. Incarnating for the sake of Siva, she shall be given
to Siva. Siva has been propitiated by her and Siva has also
spoken to her.

64 The mountain stands in the centre of the earth and is described
as the paricarp of the earth-lotus with great islands or continents forming
its petals. For details, see Note a (y P. ?,io.

6V Sahya is the name applied to that part of the Western Ghats
which lies .to the north of the Travancore hills.

66. Gandhamidana is that part of the Himalayas on wh.ch the
B-tdarikasrama is situated. See Note 309 P.40.V

67. See Note 30 P. 56 >. For details see Note 36 P. 48-

68. Mainaka: Sec Note ia P. 49 V- , , . , , .„
G 9 . The name Viudhya is applied to the whole chain of hills

running from Gujratto the Gaya region and lying on both sides of the
Narmad£ river.

624

Sivapurapa

Brahma said: —

7. On hearing the words of Meru and others, Himacala
was greatly pleased and Parvati laughed within herself.

8. Arundhati too convinced Mena with reasoned state-
ments and examples from various mythological legends.

9. Then the wife of the mountain too was delightedly
convinced. She entertained Arundhati, the sages and the
mountain with a grand feast and then took food herself.

10. Then the chief of mountains, freed from wrong
notions and grown wise, spoke with palms j oined in reverence
and mind extremely delighted.

Himacala said: —

11. O fortunate sages, please listen to my words. All
my bewilderment has vanished since I have heard the story of
Siva and Siva.

12. Everything that I possess, my body, wife, Mena,
sons, daughter, assets and achievements and other things
belong to Siva and not otherwise.

Brahma said: —

13-14. After saying so, he bedecked his daughter with
various ornaments. Then he took them all and placed them
on the lap of the sage saying "These are the presents I have
to give her."

The sages said: —

15. O mountain, you are the donor, Siva is the men-
dicant, and the alms goddess Parvati. What else can be
better than this ?

16. Since the course of your summits is befitting, you
are blessed, you are the chief of all mountains, you are great
in every respect.

Brahma said: —

17. After saying thus, the sages of pure mind offered
their blessings to the girl— "Be pleasing to Siva."

18. They touched her with their hands and continued —
"Everything will be well with you. As the moon in the
bright half of the month, may your qualities increase."

Rudrasarhhita

625

19. After saying thus and offering fruits and flowers to
the lord of mountains, the sages made him believe that the
alliance was a settled fact.

20. The great chaste lady ArundhatI tempted Mena
further with Siva's good qualities.

21. According to the worldly convention they smeared
the moustache of the mountain with powdered turmeric and
saffron as an auspicious custom.

22. After fixing the auspicious Lagna for the marriage
and congratulating and complimenting one another the sages
came to Siva's abode on the fourth day.

23. After reaching the place, Vasistha and other sages
bowed to Siva and eulogised Him with different hymns. They
then spoke to lord Siva.

The sages said: —

24. O lord Siva, lord of the gods, O great lord Siva,
please listen lovingly to the narration of what we, your
attendants, have done.

25. O great lord, the lord of mountains and Mena have
been urged with different kinds of statements and examples
from mythological legends. Undoubtedly he is enlightened.

26. Parvati has been betrothed to you by the lord of
mountains. It is not otherwise. Now please start for the
marriage with your attendants and the gods.

27. O great god, O lord, go to the abode of Himacala
and marry Parvati in accordance with the customs for the
sake of a son.

Brahma said: —

28. On hearing their words, lord Siva who was deli-
ghted and who loved to follow worldly conventions laughed
and said: —

Lord Siva said: —

29. O fortunate one, a marriage ceremony has never
been witnessed nor even heard of by me before. The details
of the same shall be mentioned by you all, specifically.

626

Brahma said: —

Sivapurana

30. On hearing these words in a worldly vein uttered
by Siva, they laughingly replied to NSadas'iva, lord of the
gods.

The sages said: —

31-33. Please invite and summon Visnu with his re-
tinue, Brahma with his sons, lord Indra, 70 all the sages,
Yaksas, Gandharvas, Kinnaras, Siddhas, Vidyadharas, heavenly
nymphs and others. All of them will jointly .accomplish
everything for you. There is no doubt about it.

Brahma said: —

34. Saying this and taking His permission the seven
sages joyfully returned to their abodes praising the way of
Siva.

CHAPTER THIRTYSEVEN

( The letter of betrothal is despatched, the requisites for the celebra-
tion are gathered and the mountain-invitees arrive)

Narada said : —

1. Dear wise father, when the seven sages returned
what did Himacala do ? Please tell me, O lord.

Brahma said: —

2. O great sage, I shall tell you what Himacala did,
when the seven sages and Arundhatl left.

3. Bidding farewell to his brothers, Meru and others
Himacala, the lord of mountains, rejoiced in the company of
his sons, daughter and wife.

4. Urged by them lovingly, Himacala caused the
letter of betrothal to be written by Garg"a, his priest.

70. Indra is called Satakratu — 'a God of hundred rites', for he
achieves Indrahood — lordship of the gods — by performing one hundred
horse-sacrilices.

Rudrasarhhita

5. He despatched the letter of betrothal to Siva along
with articles of homage through his kinsmen.

6. Those people arrived at Kailasa and handed over
the letter to Siva after applying the holy mark on his
forehead.

7. After being duly honoured by the lord, they returned
highly delighted to the penance of the mountain.

8. On seeing those people who had been highly
honoured by lord Siva and who had returned excessively
delighted, the mountain rejoiced much.

9. Then he extended his invitation highly pleasing to
his kinsmen stationed in different places with great delight.

10. Then he began collecting foodstuffs and other
requisite articles intended for the performance of the
marriage.

11. Mountainous masses of rice, beaten rice, jaggery,
sugar candies and salt were heaped up.

12. He caused huge tanks and receptacles built for
milk, ghee and curds as well as for fried flour cakes of
barley and other grains and ball-like sweets.

13. Big tanks and receptacles were made for the
nectar, sugarcane juice, baked cakes, and the 'sugar candies.

14. Tanks were built for butter, spirituous beverages,
sweet juices of various kinds and rice preparations of various
sorts.

15. Different kinds of pickles and side dishes were
prepared that might appeal to Siva's Ganas and the gods.
Different kinds of valuable garments purified in fire were
kept ready.

16. Gems and jewels of different kinds, gold, silver and
other articles were gathered duly.

17. Auspicious rites were started by the mountain on
an auspicious day. The womenfolk of the mountain per-
formed the purificatory ceremony for Parvatl.

18. Women bedecked in ornaments performed
auspicious rites. The delighted brahmin women of the
city did everything in accordance with the tradition and
custom.

628

Sivapurana

19. Great festivities and holy auspicious rites were
performed by the delighted Himavat too.

20-21. Delighted in every respect and eagerly awaiting
the arrival of his kinsmen he was excited with various
emotions. The invitees came there along with their wives,
children and attendants. O celestial sage, listen to a detailed
narration of the arrival of those mountains.

22-24. In order to increase the devotion to Siva I
shall explain in brief. Mandara, the chief mountain in
heaven came to Himavat in a divine form. He was highly
refulgent. He was accompanied by his wife and children.
His company shone brilliantly. He had brought with him
many gems and jewels.

25. Bringing with him many articles of presentation,
the liberal Western mountain 71 reached there in a divine
form.

26. The Eastern mountain came there with brilliant
gems and jewels. He looked delighted and extremely
brilliant,

27. The highly venerable lord of mountains, Malaya.' 2
came there with his followers. He was happy with his
excellent followers.

28. The mountain Dardura 73 came along with his wife.
He was exquisitely dressed. He was delighted' 4 . He had many
attendants with him.

29. O dear, the delighted mountain Nisadha came
along with his attendants. He was very brilliant.

30. The fortunate mountain Gandhamadana came with
great pleasure along with his children and womenfolk.

31. Mountains Karavlra 75 and Mahendra 76 of great
wealth and prosperity also came there.

71. 'Asta' is a mythical sunset mountain in the West while 'udaya'
is a mythical sunrise mountain in the East.

7a. Malaya (derived from the Dravidian word malai meaning 'kill'
was the name applied to the Travancore hills and the southernmost part
of the Western ghats.

73. Dardura, variously spelt as Darddara or Darddura is identified
with the Deogarh peak in the eastern part of the Vindhyas. G. E. Part I
P. 104.

74. A mythic range of mountains lying south of Mmi, but some-
times described as on the east. H. M P. 24.

75. It has not been possible to identify this mountain.

76. Mahendra, the same as Mahendragiri, was the name applied to
the Easteru Ghats.

Rudrasarhhita

629

32. Pariyatra 77 came with attendants, children and
womenfolk. He was brilliant and delighted. He had
brought many gems and jewels with him.

33. Kraufica 79 the chief of mountains, came with a
large army of attendants. He had articles of presentation
with him. He was accompanied by his kinsmen and relatives.

34. Purusottama 79 mountain came with many presenta-
tion articles. He was highly honoured along with his
followers.

35. The mountain Nila 80 with plenty of wealth came
along with his sons and womenfolk.

36. The mountains Trikuta, 81 Citrakuta, 8 ' Venkata, 83
Srigiri, 84 Gokamukha 85 and Narada 86 came also.

37. The excellent mountain Vindhya 87 possessing many
riches, came there delightedly along with his wife and
sons.

38. The mountain Kalafij ara, 88 highly resplendent and
extremely delighted came along with his attendants.

39. The mountain Kailasa favouring every one
because of brilliant lord Siva came there delighted.

40. All other mountains from several continents, O
brahmin, assembled together in the abode of Himavat.

77. Pariyatra or Paripatra was the name applied to the Western
Vindhyas together with the Aravelly range.

78. Kraufich is the name of a mythical mountain said to be (he
grandson of Himalaya who was pierced by Kartikeya and Parasurama.

79. It is a sacred hill ol Orissa associated with lord Visnu styled as
Purusottama.

80. Nilafiri, ''the Blue Mountain" seems to be the Niladri or
NUakuta, the name of the "Kamakhy 5 hill ' according to the Kaliklpurana
79. 74. Cf. Saktisangama (antra III. 7. 10.

81. A mountain in Ceylon on the top of which was situated Lanka,
the capital of Ravana.

8a. Chitrakuta is a mountain near Prayaga.

83. Vrnkata — a famous hill in the south, which is the seat of Visnu.
84,. Shrigiri or SVisaila is situated in Telangana. Cf. Saktisangama-
tantra III. 7.14.

85. Gokamukha is probably the same as Kokamukha. It is a range
of the Himalayas located in Nepal. Gf. Varahapurana 140; GAMI
Ch. XVII.

86. Coming in the list of mountains it signifies a mountain which
has not been identified so far.

87. See Note 69. P. 633.

88. It is a sacred hill in Banda District in U.P.

630

SivapurSna

41. O sage, all these mountains, invited by Himavat
came there to attend the marriage of Siva and Siva.

42. The brilliant rivers, Sonabhadra 89 and others came
delightfully to be present at the marriage of Siva and
Siva.

43. All the rivers bedecked in ornaments came
lovingly in divine forms at the marriage of Siva and
Siva.

44. The rivers Godavarl, 90 Yamuna, 91 Brahmastri 93 and
Venika" 3 came to attend the marriage of Siva and Siva.

45. With great pleasure Ganga too, assuming a divine
form and fully bedecked in ornaments came to attend the
marriage of Siva and Siva.

46. The best of rivers Narmada, 94 daughter of Rudra,
came joyfully and quickly to attend the marriage of Siva
and Siva.

47. The entire city of Himavat was full of excitement
and ardent fervour when the invitees gathered there
together.

48. Great festivities went on in the city. Banners,
flags and festoons shone everywhere. The canopies hid the
sunlight.

49. Himavat welcomed them with great delight and
reverence. The mountains and the rivers, the gents and the
ladies were duly received.

50. He housed them suitably in separate places. They
were gratified with the amenities provided by Himavat.

89. Sonabhadra most probably is the same as Amriacala in the South
Arcot District. See Avasthi: Studies in Sk. P. P. 14a.

90. Godavarl. See Note 56 P. 75.

91 . Yamuna. See Note 67 P, 76. ;

92. The river Brahmastri can be identified with the river Sarasvati
See Note 35- P. 47.

93. See Note 57 P. 75.

94. See Note 55 P. 75.

Rudrasathhitd

631

CHAPTER THIRTYEIGHT

{Description of the dais)

Brahma said : —

1. Then the lord of mountains, O excellent sage,
attended to the decoration of the entire city befitting the
great festivities ahead.

2. The roads were watered and swept clean. At
every door, stumps of plantain trees and other auspicious
symbols were fixed.

3. The courtyard was embellished with plantain trees
tied with silken cords. There were festoons of mango
leaves,

4. Festoons with garlands of jasmine flowers shone,
everywhere. Other articles of auspicious portent were fixed
in every quarter.

5. These and other things were carried out by
Himavat for the sake of his daughter. Every activity was
supervised by Garga of great ability. Everything auspicious
worth mentioning found a place there.

6. He called Visvakarman 96 and requested him to erect
a large and spacious dais beautiful with side rostrums,
altars etc.

7. The dais, O celestial sage, was ten thousand
Yojanas wide. It was wonderfully constructed and had all
the characteristic features.

8. AH the mobile and immobile objects of the world
were represented there with realistic appearance. Everything
was wonderfully portrayed.

9. The mobile objects presented there surpassed the
immobile ones and the immobile ones surpassed the mobile
ones in excellence.

10. The watery places presented there excelled the
solid grounds. Even experts could not distinguish what was
water and what was solid ground,

11. There were artificial lions. There were rows of

95. See Note 301 4° l > Note =93 p - 389-

632

Sivapurana

storks. There were artificial peacocks, but very beautiful in
appearance.

12. Artificial women were represented as dancing with
artificial men casting wistful glances at them and enchanting
them.

13. Beautiful representations of gatekeepers with up-
lifted bows in their hands appeared like real originals.

14. The statue of Mahalaksmi at the main entrance
appeared like the goddess just emerged from the milk-
ocean. It was because all the characteristics were
complete.

15. Elephants with their mahouts and horses with
their riders were so natural that none would say that they
were artificial.

16. Chariots were driven by charioteers, other vehicles
by other drivers. There were foot-solidiers too. All of them
were artificial.

17. O sage, ViSvakarman was so delighted that he
made all these things to fascinate the visiting dignitaries,
the gods and the sages.

18. O sage, the statue of Nandin, at the portals, of
crystalline purity and brilliance, was a prototype of the real
Nandin.

19. Above that there was the celestial chariot Puspaka
decorated with sprouts. It shone with gods represented
therein.

20. On the left side there were two huge saffron
coloured elephants with four tusks and appearing to be of
sixty years in age. They shone lustrously.

21. There were two horses too, brilliant like the
sun. They were bedecked in divine ornaments and other
necessary embellishments.

22. The guardians of the quarters were shown as
adorned with great gems. All the gods were portrayed by
VisVakarman realistically.

23. Bhrgu 96 and other sages, secondary gods, Siddhas
and others were represented by Visvakarman.

24. A wonderful image of Visnu with his attendants

96. See Note 399 P. 397.

Rudrasarhhitd

633

Garuda and others was created by him with wonderful
features.

25. I too was portrayed as surrounded by my sons,
Vedas and Siddhas. O Narada, I was represented as
reciting the hymns.

26. An artificial image of Indra seated on Airavata
and accompanied by his attendants was made by him
looking as beautiful as the full moon.

27. O celestial sage, of what avail is a long-drawn
description ? The gods were drawn by Visvakarman as
desired by Himavat.

28. The Altar was erected by him with wonderful
features, fascinating the gods and exquisite in form.

29. On being commanded by the lord of mountains,
the intelligent Visvakarman created different abodes for the
residence of the gods and others.

30. Great couches of wonderful brilliance very cosy
and exquisite were made by Visvakarman for their sake.

31. For the residence of Brahma, seven wonderful
abodes were created in a trice. They had great brilliance.

32. A brilliant abode of Visnu called Vaikuntha, with
wonderful features, was created in a trice.

33. Visvakarman created a wonderfully divine palace
for the lord of gods endowed with all riches.

34. Wonderful mansions for the guardians of the
quarters were erected by Visvakarman. They were beautiful
and large.

35. Mansions of various kinds were built by him for
other gods too.

36. The highly intelligent .Visvakarman built every-
thing very quickly for the propitiation of Siva from whom
he had secured great favours.

37. Similarly he erected Siva's mansion of various
shapes and of great brilliance. Having the symbol of Siva
it was designated as Sivaloka. It was admired by all the
gods.

38. Thus for propitiating Siva, wonderful and very
brilliant structures were erected by Visvakarman.

39. Making all arrangements in accordance with

634 Sivapurana

worldly conventions, Himavat awaited eagerly for the
arrival of Siva.

40. Thus, O divine sage, I have narrated the pleasing
story of Himavat entirely. What else do you wish to
hear ?

CHAPTER THIRTYNINE

(The gods arrive at Kaildsa on invitation and
Siva prepares to start)

Narada said : —

1. O dear father Brahma, O intelligent disciple of
Visnu, obeisance be to you. O merciful one, this wonderful
story has been heard by us from you.

2. Now I wish to hear the story of the auspicious
marriage of the moon-crested lord that dispels all sins.

3. What did lord Siva do on receiving the auspicious
letter of betrothal. Please narrate that story of Siva, the
supreme soul.

Brahma said : —

4. Dear child of great intellect, listen to the glory of
Siva, what lord Siva did on receiving the auspicious
letter.

5. On reading the auspicious letter with joy, Siva
laughed in delight. The lord honoured them duly.

6. Causing the letter to be read aloud, He duly
accepted the proposal. " Honouring the messengers He
informed them.

7. He told the sages— "Every thing is auspicious and
well done. All of you shall grace the celebration of my
marriage. The marriage proposal has been accepted by me".

8. On hearing these words of Siva, they were
delighted. After bowing to and circumambulating Him they
returned joyful of their great luck and grace.

9. Then Siva, the lord of the gods, the lord indulging

Rudrasamhila

635

in divine sports, remembered you, O sage, in accordance
with worldly conventions.

10-11. You came there praising your good luck.
Bowing to Him humbly with palms joined in reverence and
with stooping shoulders you eulogised Him with the utterances
of words "hail to Thee". O sage, you requested Him for
his behest.

12. Then the delighted Siva, heightening your pleasure
with sweet speech and evincing interest in worldly conventions
told you thus, O excellent sage.

Siva said : —

13. O excellent sage, listen to us lovingly. I am
speaking to you because you are the crest-jewel of my
devotees,

14. At your bidding a great penance has been per-
formed by Parvati. Propitiated by her I have granted her
the boon of my being her husband.

15. Being subservient to her by her devotion I shall
marry her. The auspicious hour free of defects has been fixed
by the seven sages.

16. O Narada, the marriage will take place after
seven days from today. Following the worldly conventions I
shall make a grand festival of the same.

Brahma said : —

17. O dear one, on hearing these words of Siva, the
supreme soul, you were delighted and you spoke after
bowing to the lord.

Narada said : —

18. This is your sacred rite. You have been consi-
dered subservient to your devotees. You have carried out
the desire of Parvati.

19. O lord, a task befitting my capacity must be
mentioned by you. Considering me your own servant please
be kind to me. Obeisance to you.

Brahma said : —

20. O great sage, Siva, favourably disposed to His

636

Sivapurana

devotees, on being thus requested by you replied very
delightedly to you.

Siva said : —

21. O sage, on my behalf, invite all the gods
beginning with Visnu, and sages, Siddhas and others.

22. Giving due weightage to my bidding, may all
of them come here enthusiastically, in all their splendour
along with their women and children.

23. O sage, those who do not take part in the
celebration of my marriage, are not my people, even if they
are the gods.

Brahma said : —

24. Paying heed to this behest of Siva, O sage, you,
a great favourite of Siva, invited all of them approaching
everyone severally.

25. O Narada, after carrying out your duties as his
emissary you, the great sage, returned to Siva and remained
there with His permission.

26. Siva too waited there eagerly expecting their
arrival while his attendants were celebrating great festivities
by dance and songs.

27. At the same time, Visnu, along with his retinue,
came there suitably dressed.

28. Accompanied by his wife and followers he bowed
to Siva with great devotion and joy, and with his permission
stayed there in a good abode.

29. I too accompanied by my attendants went to
Kailasa. After bowing to the lord, I too waited there with
pleasure along with my followers.

30. Indra and other guardians of the quarters came
there with their retinue and womenfolk richly decorated and
in festive mood,

31. Similarly the sages, the Nagas, the Siddhas, the
secondary gods and others who had been duly invited came
there in jovial mood.

32. Lord Siva duly received and welcomed all those
gods and others severally.

33. Then a great festival was celebrated at Kailasa.

Rudrasamhita

63?

It was very wonderful. The celestial damsels danced in a
befitting manner.

34. O sage, in the meantime Visnu and other gods
who had arrived there desired to make Siva's procession to
start.

35. At the bidding of Siva, all of them performed
service to Siva considering His work as their own.

36. The seven Mothers performed the rites of
bedecking Siva in a fitting manner very joyously.

37. Even the very natural dress and features of Siva
assumed the work of ornamentation, O excellent sage, at the
will of. lord Siva.

38. The moon took the place of the crown. The
third eye became the beautiful ornament on the forehead.

39. O sage, the serpents that had been embellishing
His ears before became the ear-rings studded with various
gems.

40. The serpents in the other parts became the
befitting ornaments of those parts, very beautiful and
studded with gems.

41. The ashes became the sweet unguent smeared over
his body. The elephant hide etc. became the beautiful
silken cloth.

42. The form assumed a beauty beyond description.
Lord Siva seemed to have acquired from Himself all the
riches.

43. Then all the gods, demons, Nagas, Patahgas,
Apsarasas, sages and others approached Siva and proclaimed
jovially.

All of them said : —

44. O lord, start on journey for wedding the great
goddess, the daughter of the mountain, accompanied by us.
Be merciful.

45. Then the omniscient Visnu of joyful mind spoke
befitting the occasion after bowing to Siva with devotion.

Visiiu said : —

46. O lord of the gods, favourite of those who seek

638

Sivapurafta

refuge in you, please carry out the task of your devotees.
O lord, please listen to my submission.

47. O Siva, let the rites of your marriage with the
daughter of the lord of mountains be performed according
to the laws laid down in the Grhya Sutras.

48. The rites followed in your marriage, O Siva, will
become famous and be followed in the world.

49. Please cause the construction of the altar and the
Nandimukha 97 according to family tradition. Thus you
will be spreading your glory in the world, O lord.

Brahma said : —

50. Lord Siva thus requested by Visnu, and being
himself eager to follow worldly conventions performed the
same duly.

51. Authorised by Him, I performed all the rites
conducive to prosperity, assisted by the sages.

52-55. The sages Kasyapa, Atri, Vasistha, Gautama,
Bhaguri, Brhaspati, Kanva, Sakti, 88 Jamadagni, Paragara,
Markandeya, Silapaka, Arunapala, Akrtasrama, Agastya,
Cyavana, Garga, Silada, Dadhici, Upamanyu, Bharadvaja,
Akrtavrana, Pippalada, Kusika, Kautsa, Vyasa, with his
disciples, and other sages came to Siva. Urged by me they
performed the sacred rites duly.

56. All of them who had mastered the Vedas and
Vedahgas performed the safety rites for Siva and tied the
auspicious thread round his wrist.

57. By reciting hymns from Rk, Yajus, and Saman
they performed the holy rites. All the sages were greatly
pleased.

58. In order to ward off obstacles they performed
the adoration of the planets under my instruction. They
worshipped the gods stationed in the altar.

59. After performing the social and Vedic rites in a
fitting manner Siva became pleased and bowed to the
brahmins joyously.

60. Then the lord of all started from the excellent

97. Nandimukha is a Sraddha ceremony performed in memory of
the Manes, preliminary to any festive occasion such as marriage.

98. Sakti was the eldest son of Vasistha.

Rudrasamhita

mountain Kailasa keeping the brahmins and the gods
ahead.

61. Outside the mountain Kailasa, Siva stopped for
a while along with the gods and brahmins receiving different
ovations.

62. Then a great jovial festival was celebrated by the
gods and others in order to propitiate Siva. Songs were sung.
Instruments were played. Dances were held.

CHAPTER FORTY

{The Marriage Procession of Siva)

Brahma said : —

1. Then Siva called Nandin and other Ganas and
ordered them to accompany Him.

Sim said : —

2. Station a few Ganas here and the rest of you accom-
pany me to the city of the mountain in a jovial mood.

Brahma said : —

3. Then the lords of Ganas thus ordered took their
armies and started joyously. I shall explain it in general
terms.

4. The lord of Ganas, Sankhakarna started with a
crore of Ganas to the city of Himavat along with Siva.

5. Kekaraksa took ten crores of Ganas with gaiety.
Vikita, the leader of Ganas, took eight crores of Ganas.

6. Visakha took four crores and Parijata took nine
crores of Ganas.

7. The glorious Sarvantaka and Vikrtanana took
sixty crores. Dundubha took eight crores.

8. O sage, Kapala took five crores and the heroic
Sandaraka took six crores of Ganas.

9. Kanduka and Kundaka took a crore of the Ganas.
Vistambha took eight crores.

10. The leader Pippala joyously went with a thousand

640

crores, O excellent sage, Sanadaka the hero also took so
many.

11. Avesana weiu with eight crores. Mahakesa took
a thousand crores.

12. O sage, Kunda and Parvataka each took twelve
crores of Ganas with him. The heroic Candratapana went
with eight crores.

13. Kala, Kalaka and Mahakala each went with hun-
dred crores of Ganas. The leader of Ganas named Agnika
went with a crore.

14. Agnimukha, the leader of Ganas, went with a crore.
A-dityamurdha. and Ghanavaha each went with a crore of
Ganas.

15. Sannaha and Kumuda went with hundred crores.
So also Amogha and Kokila each went with hundred crores.

16. Sumantra, the leader of Ganas, went with a crore of
Ganas. Kakapadodara and Santanaka went each with six
crores of Ganas.

17. Mahabala, Madhupinga and Kokila each went
with nine crores. Nila and Purnabhadra each went with
ninety crores of Ganas.

18- Caturvaktra with seven crores, Karana with twenty
crores and the leader of Ganas Ahiromaka went with ninety
crores.

19. O Narada, Yajvaksa, Satamanyu and Meghamanyu
each of these leaders too went with so many crores.

20. Kastbagiidha, the leader of Ganas, went with
sixtyfour crores. So too Virupaksa, Sukesa, Vrsabha and
Sanatana,

21. Similarly Talaketu, Sadasya, the eternal Cancvasya
Sarhvartaka, Gaitra and the lord Lakulisa himself.

22-23. The brilliant Lokantaka, Daityantaka, lord
Bhrngiriti, the glorious Devapriya, Asani and Bhanuka went
with sixtyfour crores. Others in jovial mood went in thous-
ands with Siva to attend his marriage, O sage.

24. A thousand crores of Bhiitas aud three crores of
Pramathas went. Virabhadra went with sixtyfour crores of
Ganas and three crores of Romajas.

25. In the marriage procession of Siva, Nandin and

Rudrasarhhitd

641

other leaders of Ganas went surrounded by hundreds and
twenties of crores of Ganas.

26. Knowing delightedly that it was Siva's marriage,
Bhairava the Ksetrapala went jovially with crores and crores
of Ganas.

27. These and other leaders of Ganas of great strength
and multitudinous in number joined the procession with
joy and enthusiasm.

28. They had a thousand hands. They wore matted hair
and crowns. They were bedecked with streaks of the moon.
They had three eyes and blue necks (like lord Siva).

29. All of them wore garlands of Rudraksa beads.
They had the holy ashes smeared over the body. They had
the ornaments of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, crowns etc.

30. The leaders were as refulgent as Brahma, Visnu
and Indra, Anima and other Energies.* They were as
brilliant and lustrous as crores of suns.

31. O sage, some of them belonged to this terrestrial
world, some came through nether worlds, some came through
the sky and some came through seven heavens.

32. Of what avail is this talk ? O celestial sage,
Siva's own Ganas living in all the worlds came and joined
the procession of Siva, with pleasure.

33. Thus, lord Siva, accompanied by his Ganas, gods
and others, went to the city of Himagiri for the celebration of
His marriage.

34. O great sage, listen to another incident that hap-
pened when Siva, the lord of all, went for his marriage along
with the gods and others.

35. Rudra's sister Candi assuming a great festive mood
came there with great pleasure but inspiring terror in others.

36. She was riding on a ghost. She was bedecked in
the ornaments of serpents. A gold pot filled (with water)
shone over her head.

37. She was accompanied by her attendants. Her face
was beaming. Her eyes dazzled. She was enthusiastic and glad.
She was strong.

38. The divine Bhuta attendants were crores and crores
in number. They shone in diverse forms.

* See Note 303 P. 1335.

642

Sivapurd^ia

39. Accompanied by them Candi of deformed face
went ahead gladly and enthusiastically. She was equally
competent to please and to harass.

40. All the Ganas of Siva numbering to eleven crores,
terrible but favourites of Siva were kept by her far behind.

41. The loud sounds of Damarus, the Jhankara sound
of the Bheris and the sound of the conches pervaded all the
three worlds.

42. The tumultuous sound of the Dundubhis rose up
in the air blessing the universe auspiciously and destroying
everything other than auspicious.

43. O sage, behind the Ganas, the enthusiastic gods,
the Siddhas, the guardians of the quarters and others followed.

44. O sage, Visnu, seated on Garuda and going in
the middle of the group shone with the great umbrella held
aloft.

45. He was surrounded by his attendants who fanned
him with Camaras. His Parsadas too shone well. He was be-
decked in all his ornaments.

46-47. I too shone well on the way with the Vedas,
Sastras, Puranas and Agamas personified and along with
my sons, Prajapatis, Sanaka and other Siddhas. I was eager
in rendering service to Siva.

48. Going along, seated on the elephant Airavata in
the midst of his armies, Indra, the lord of god, shone well
fully decorated in various ways.

49. Many other sages enthusiastic about the marriage
of Siva shone well on their way.

50-51. Sakinls, Yatudhanas Vetalas, Brahmaraksasas,
Bhutas, Pretas and Pramathas, Tumburu, Narada, Haha,
Huhu," Gandharvas and Kinnaras went ahead playing on
their musical instruments with great delight.

52-53. The Mothers of the universe, the celestial virgins,
Gayatri, Savitri, Laksml, the celestial maidens, the wives of
the gods, the mothers of the worlds went ahead with great
joy, only because it was the marriage of Siva.

54-55. Lord Siva, favourably disposed to virtue, was

99.' Tumbaru, Haha and Hiihu were the Gandharvas, attending on
Kubera They were expert musicians who played^ on Vina and other
musical instruments and were generally invited at festivities.

Rudrasarkhita

643

seated on his bull of crystal purity and beauty — the bull who
is called Dharma by the Vedas, Sastras, Siddhas and sages.
Siva was being served by the gods and sages on his way.
He shone well.

56. Accompanied by all these sages and decorated in
various ways, lord Siva was going to the abode of the moun-
tain Himalaya for the marriage with Parvatl. He shone well.

57. Thus the story of Siva's grand procession has been
narrated to you. O Narada, listen to the incidents of good
portent that happened in the city of Himavat.

CHAPTER FORTYONE

{Description of the Altar-Structure)

Brahma said : —

1 . Then after mutual consultation and getting Siva's
permission, O sage, Visnu sent you ahead to the abode of
the mountain.

2. Urged by Visnu, O Narada, you bowed to lord
Siva and went ahead of all to the abode of Himavat.

3. O sage, after going there, you saw your own image
made by Visvakarman and were surprised. You were a
bit ashamed too.

4. O great sage, tired of seeing the portrayal of your-
self, you became engaged in seeing the other builds of
ViSvakarman.

5. You entered the great altar of Himavat, studded
with various gems and decorated with gold pots and stumps
of plantain trees.

6. It had a thousand columns. It was wonderful.
O sage, you were struck with surprise on seeing the altars.

7. Then you were a bit confused and greatly
bewildered. You spoke to the lord of mountains thus.

8-9. O lord of mountains, tell me the truth. Has
lord Siva seated on his bull and surrounded by his Ganas
come already for the marriage ? Have the gods with Visnu

644

mrana

and others at their head, the sages, the Siddhas and the
secondary gods come already ?"

Brahma said : —

10. On hearing your words full of surprise, O sage,
the mountain Himavat told you the truth.

Himavat said : —

11. O Narada, O highly intelligent one, Siva with
the marriage party has not come till now for the purpose
of marrying Parvati.

12. O Narada, know that all these things have been
portrayed by Vi^vakarman. O celestial sage, shake off your
bewilderment. Be calm. Remember Siva.

13. Showing kindness to me you take your food and
rest for a while. Then gladly accompany Mainaka and
others to Siva's presence.

14. Accompanied by these mountains you request Siva
along with the gods, and the great sages, Siva whose sprout-
like feet are worshipped by gods and demons. Bring them
here.

Brahma said: —

15. You accepted the suggestion noble-heartedly and
performed the duties there. Then accompanied by the sons
of the mountain and others you went to Siva's presence.

1 6. There the brilliant god Siva surrounded by the
gods and others was seen and bowed to by you and the
mountains with devotion.

17. Then all the gods including Indra, Visnu and
me and Siva's attendants asked you, O sage.

18. They had been struck with surprise and suspicion
on seeing the mountains Mainaka, Sahya, Meru and others
bedecked in all kinds of ornaments.

The gods iaid: —

19. O Narada, intelligent one, you appear to be
bewildered. Have you been duly honoured by Himavat or
not ? Tell us in detail.

20. Why have these excellent mountains Mainaka,

Rudrasarhhita

645

Sahya, Meru and others highly bedecked and of great valour,
come here ?

21. O Narada, does the mountain really intend to
give his daugther to Siva or not ? What is it that is
taking place in the abode of Himavat now ? Please
tell us.

22. We are having doubts in our minds. Hence we,
the heaven-dwellers, ask you. Please say everything, O
righteous one, and dispel our suspicions.

Brahma said : —

23. On hearing these words of Visnu and other
heaven-dwellers, O sage, you who had been fascinated by
the magic of Tvastr (Visvakarman) spoke to them.

24. Going to an isolated place, O sage, you spoke
these words to me, to Visnu and also to Indra who is the
lord of gods and a former enemy of the mountains, having
cut off their wings. 100

Narada said : —

25. The distorted portayal of heaven-dwellers is
something enchanting. He desires to delude the gods in a
loving but cunning manner.

26. O lord of Saci, have you forgotten everything ?
Formerly you had deluded him. Hence he wishes to sur-
pass you here in the abode of the mountain of noble heart.

27. I have been fascinated by my shining portrait.
Visnu, Brahma and Indra have been realistically portrayed
by him.

28. O lord of gods, why should I talk too much ?
He has made artificial prototypes of all the gods. No one,
not a single detail, has been left out.

29. It is for the purpose of particularly enchanting the
gods that this spell has been employed by him through this
caricature.

Brahma said : —

30. On hearing your words lord Indra who was frigh-

ioo. Indra is said to have clipped the wings of the mountains when
they grew troublesome.

646

Sivapurd.no

tened from head to foot, immediately spoke to Visnu.

Lord Indra said : —

31. O lord of Laksmij O lord of gods, Tvas{r who is
agitated due to the grief over his son will surely kill me
under this pretext and not otherwise.

Brahma said: —

32. On hearing his words Visnu, the lord of gods
laughingly consoled Indra by speaking thus.

Visnu said : —

33. O lord of Sad, formerly you had been enchanted
by the demons Nivatakavacas, your previous enemies, by the
power of their great spell.

34. O Indra, at my instance, this mountain Himavat
and others too were rendered wingless.

35. Let the mountains now create magic on remem-
bering that and wish to surpass us foolishly. We are not to
be afraid of our enemies.

36. O Indra, Siva favourably disposed to His devotees,
will undoubtedly look to our welfare.

37. While he was speaking this to Indra of agitated
mind, Siva spoke to Visnu following the worldly custom.

Siva said :■

38. "O Visnu, O lord of gods, what are you speaking
to each other ?" O sage, after speaking thus to them Siva
addressed you.

39. "O Narada, what does the great mountain say ?
Tell me the truth with details. You must not keep any
secret.

40. Does the mountain want to give the daughter or
not ? Tell me that quickly. O dear one, on going there,
what did you see ? What did you do ? Tell me that
quickly.

Brahma said : —

41. Addressed thus by Siva, O sage, you endowed
with divine vision told him secretly what you saw in the altar.

Rudrasarhhila

647

Ndrada said : —

42. O great lord, lord of gods, listen to my auspicious
words. O lord, there is no fear of any hindrance in the
celebration of marriage.

43. The lord of mountains will surely give his
daughter to you. It is certainly to take you there that these
mountains have come here.

44. But to delude the gods a wonderful spell has been
created. O omniscient, it is only to inspire curiosity. There
is no possibility of any obstacle.

45. O lord, Visvakarman, a great expert in creating
illusion has constructed a peculiar altar in his house at his
instance. It is full of surprising things.

46. A fascinating assembly of gods has been built
there. On seeing it I was deluded by his skill and was
struck with surprise.

Brahma said : —

47. O dear, on hearing your words, the lord Siva
following the worldly convention, laughingly spoke to Visnu
and other gods.

Siva said : —

48. O Visnu, if the mountain Himavat gives his
daughter to me, what have I to do with this spell? Speak
to me what is true.

49. O Brahma, O Indra, O sages, O gods, speak truly.
What have I to do with the spell if the mountain gives
his daughter ?

50. It is held by scholars, knowing cogent reasons,
that somehow or other the fruit should be achieved. Hence
you, with Visnu at the head, will hasten seeking only the
task on hand.

Brahma said : —

51. Discussing thus with gods, Siva appeared to be
completely overpowered by Kama like an ordinary man.

52-54. At the bidding of Siva, Visnu and other gods,
the noble sages and others, O sage, kept you and mountains
at the head and started for the abode of Himavat. They

648

Sivapurana.

were surprised to see the wonderful abode. The delighted
Siva reached the outskirts of the city accompanied by Visnu
and others as well as his delighted Ganas.

CHAPTER FORTYTWO

(Description of the meeting of the lord and the
mountain)

Brahma said ; —

1. On hearing that the all-pervading Siva had come
very near his city, the lord of mountains Himavat rejoiced
much.

2. Then, gathering all the requisite things he sent
mountains and the brahmins to welcome Siva.

3. With his mind melting with devotion and joyously
praising his luck, the mountain personally went to see Siva
as dear as the very vital air.

4. On seeing the army of the gods Himavat was
struck with wonder. Considering himself blessed he appeared
in front of them.

5. The gods too were struck with wonder on seeing
his army. The gods and the mountains became delighted.

6. The vast army of the mountains and the gods, O
sage, on coming together shone like the eastern and western
oceans in juxtaposition.

7. Meeting each other, the gods and the mountains
considered themselves blessed. They were greatly delighted.

8. Seeing Siva in front, Himavat bowed to Him.
The mountains and the brahmins bowed to Sadas"iva.

9-14. He was seated on his bull, fully bedecked in
ornaments and beaming in the face. The beauty of his
divine person illuminated the quarters. His body shone in
the delicate silken garments. His crown was lustrous with
the gems set in it. He was smiling shedding pure brilliance
everywhere. Serpents had transformed themselves into
ornaments on his body. He had a wonderful lustre and a
divine refulgence. Gods served him with chowries in their

Rudrasamhita

649

hands. Visnu was standing to the left, Brahma to the right,
Indra at his back. Behind on either side, the gods were
standing. He was being eulogised by the gods and others.
He looked benevolent to the people. Being one He had
assumed different physical bodies for his own reasons. He
was Brahman itself, the lord of all and the bestower of boons.
He was both with or without attributes, subservient to the
devotees, merciful, greater than primordial Being and pri-
mordial nature, Existence, Knowledge and Bliss itself.

15. The mountain saw Visnu, bedecked in ornaments
and seated on Garuda to the right of lord Siva.

16. O sage, to the left of the lord stood I, the four-
faced deity, shining brilliantly and accompanied by my
attendants.

17. On seeing us both, great favourites of Siva for
ever, the lord of mountains with all his retinue respectfully
bowed to us.

18. Similarly, on seeing the gods and others brilliantly
shining behind lord Siva and at his sides, the lord of moun-
tains bowed to them.

19. At the bidding of Siva the mountain went ahead
to his city. Behind him went Visnu, Brahma, the sages and
the gods.

20. O Narada, the sages, the gods and others
accompanying the lord, praised the city of Himavat with
great delight.

21. Stationing the gods and others on his beautiful
summit specially arranged for them, Himavat went to the
place where the altar for the rites had been erected.

22. After causing squares and quadrangles to be made
with festoons, he performed the ceremonial ablutions, gave
charitable gifts and supervised everything,

23. Then he sent his sons to Siva accompanied by
all his attendants and followers, Visnu and others.

24. The extremely delighted lord of mountains in the
company of his kinsmen desired to perform the reception to
the bridegroom with great pomp and ceremony.

25. The sons of the mountain accompanied by their
relatives went to Siva and acquainted him with the request
of the mountain.

650

Sivapurana

26. The sons of the mountain came back to their
abode with his permission and informed the king of
mountains gladly that the bridegroom and the party were on
their way there.

27. O sage, on hearing the request thus made, Visnu
and other gods with the lord rejoiced much.

28. Dressed richly and exquisitely the gods, the ganas,
the sages and others started towards the abode of lord
Himavat.

29. In the meantime, Mena desired to see Siva. O
sage, through her lord, you, the excellent sage, were requisi-
tioned there.

30. O sage, urged by the lord who desired to fulfil
the task of Siva you went there.

31. O sage, after bowing to you, Mena with her
heart full of surprise told you that she wanted to see the
real form of lord Siva that dispels haughtiness.

CHAPTER FORTYTHREE

(Description of Siva's wonderful sport)

Mend said : —

1. O sage, I shall first see the bridegroom of Parvati.
Let me have an idea of the form and features of Siva for
which she performed the great penance.

Brahma said : —

2. Thus, urged by ignorance, O sage, she went to the
terrace along with you to see Siva.

3. Then Siva, realising her false pride in herself,
spoke to Visnu and me as a part of His wonderful sport.

Siva said : —

4. "At my bidding, O dear ones, both of you go one
by one accompanied by the gods to the threshold of the
mountain. I shall follow afterwards."

Rudrasarhhita

651

Brahma said : —

5. On hearing it Visnu called all and told them of
his suggestion. The gods then walked in accordance with
that suggestion enthusiastically.

6. O sage, the lord of the universe, let Mena. stand
on the terrace and see the procession along with you in
order to make her mind confused.

7. In the meantime, seeing the splendid vast army,
O sage, Mena became delighted as usual.

8. At the head of procession came the beautiful
fastidious Gandharvas, dressed in rich clothes and bedecked
in fine ornaments.

9. They rode on different vehicles. They played on
musical instruments. Flags and banners of various colours and
sizes fluttered on their chariots. The heavenly nymphs
accompanied them.

10. On seeing Vasu, 101 the lord of Vasus, along with
Vasus, Mena became delighted and exclaimed— "O this is
Siva".

11. O excellent sage, you told her "These are only
the attendants of Siva. This is not Siva, the bridegroom."

12. On hearing this, Mena fell athinking "A person
greater than this ! Ha, how will he be !"

13. In the meantime she saw Manigrlva, 102 the other
Yaksas and their vast army with twice the splendour of
Vasus.

14. On seeing the lustrous Manigrlva the lord of
Yaksas, Mena was delighted and said— "This is Siva, the
bridegroom of Parvati."

15. "This is not Siva, the bridegroom of Parvati. He
is only an attendant of Siva" said you to Mena, the wife
of the mountain. By that time the god of fire passed by.

16. On seeing his splendour twice that of Yaksas, she

101. Vasu is the chief of the eight Vasus who in fact are personi-
fications of natural phenomena, viz. water, pole-star, moon, earth, wind,
fire, dawn and light. Cf. Note 163, P. 16a.

102. Manigrlva is one of the sons of Kubera, distinct from Mani-
bhadra who is also a Yakja.

652

Sivapurdna

said "This is Siva, the bridegroom of Parvati" but you
said "No".

17. By that time Yama passed by with twice the
splendour of the previous one. On seeing him delighted
Mena exclaimed "This is Siva".

18. "No" said you. By that time Nirrti, the lord of
Punyajanas, passed by having twice the splendour of Yama.

19. On seeing him the delighted Mena said "This
is Siva". "No" said you to her. By that time Varuna
passed that way.

20. On seeing his splendour twice that of Nirrti, she
said "This is Siva, the bridegroom of Parvati". But you
said "No".

21. By that time Vayu passed by with twice the
splendour of Varuna. On seeing him the delighted Mena
said "This is Siva".

22. "No" said you. By that time Kubera, the lord
of Guhyakas, passed by with twice the splendour of
Vayu.

23. On seeing him the delighted Mena said "This is
Siva". "No", said you to her. By that time ISana
passed by.

24. On seeing his splendour twice that of Kubera,
she said "This is Rudra, the bridegroom of Parvati". But
you said "No".

25. Then came Indra, the most important of all the
gods, the lord of the three worlds, endowed with divine
refulgence and who had twice the splendour of Isana.

26. On seeing him Menaka said — "This is Siva".
"Not he", said you then "This is Indra, the lord of gods".

27. By that time the moon passed by with twice the
splendour of Indra. On seeing him she said "This is Siva"
and you denied it.

28. By that time the Sun passed by with twice the
splendour of the moon. On seeing him she said "It is he".
You said to her "No".

29. By that time Bhrgu and other sages, all highly
lustrous and accompanied by their disciples, passed by.

30. On seeing Brhaspati in their midst Menaka

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653

said : — "This is Siva the master of Parvati". Then you
said "No".

31. By that time Brahma passed by. He was in an
excellent from of lustre, praised by excellent sages and looking
like an embodied Dharma itself.

32. O sage, seeing me the highly delighted Mena
said — "This is Parvati's husband". You said to her "No".

33-35. In the meantime lord Visnu came that way.
He looked glorious and splendid, dark-blue like the fresh
cloud and having four arms. He had the handsome features
of numberless cupids. He wore yellow garments. He was
the king of heaven with eyes resembling the petals of a lotus,
and looked very calm. He had Garuda as his vehicle. He
possessed all the characteristic signs conch etc. He was be-
decked in crown and other ornaments. He wore Srivatsa
on his chest. He had an uncommon splendour that was in-
comprehensible

36. On seeing him Mena's eyes became dazed. With
great delight she said — "This is Siva himself the bride-
groom of Parvati. There is no doubt about it".

37-39. On hearing Menaka's words you said — " No,
this is not the lord, the cause of protection and enjoyment.
This is not the bridegroom of Parvati. This is Visnu, the
omcer-in-charge of the marriage-party of Siva and a great
favourite of Siva. The bridegroom Siva is better than him.
O Mena, it is impossible for me to describe his beauty. He
is the lord of the entire universe, the lord of all, the Self-
Emperor".

Brahma, said : —

40. On hearing your words, Mena thought her
daughter auspicious, rich, fortunate and harbinger of happiness
for the three families.

41 . Her face was beaming with pleasure and her heart
was delighted. Frequently congratulating herself on her
good luck she said : —

Mend said : —

42. By the birth of Parvati, I have become blessed in

654

&vapurdrta

every respect. The lord of mountains too is blessed. Every
thing connected with me is blessed.

43. Her would-be-husband is the lord of these leaders
of great lustre whom I have seen now.

44. How can I describe her good luck even in
hundred years ? It is impossible to describe it when I see
the lustre of these leaders.

Brahma said : —

45. Thus spoke Mena. with her mind full of love and
hope. By that time Siva, the wonderful source of enjoy-
ment and protection, came that way.

46. He showed himself in his real form free from
change of illusion. O dear, the Ganas of wonderful forms
proved to be the dispeller of Mena's pride.

47. O sage Narada, on seeing Him come, you lovingly
pointed him out to her as the bridegroom of Siva and spoke
to her.

Narada said : —

48. This is Siva Himself, O comely maiden, see. It
was for him that Parvati performed a great penance in the
forest.

Brahma said : —

49. Thus addressed by you the delighted Mena stared
at the lord with joy; the lord Isana of wonderful features
and of wonderful attendants.

50. Immediately the army of Siva came there
consisting of wonderful arrays of Bhutas, Pretas and
Ganas.

51. Some were in the form of violent gusts of wind,
producing hissing sounds with waving flags. Some had
crooked faces. Others were deformed.

52. Some were awful with overgrown moustaches and
beards. Some were lame. Some were blind. Some held
staffs and nooses and some great iron clubs in their
hands.

53. Some rode on peculiar vehicles. Some played on

Rudrasamhita

655

horns. Some played on Damarus. Some played on Gomukhas.

54. Some had no faces. Some had distorted and
deformed faces. Some had many faces. Some had no hands.
Others had deformed hands. Some of them had many hands.

55. Some had no eyes. Some had many eyes. Some
had no head. Some had deformed heads. Some had no
ears. Some had many ears. The Ganas had all types of
dresses and features.

56. Such and other innumerable deformed Ganas,
heroic and terrible, strong and strenuous passed by, O dear.

57. O sage, you pointed out the Ganas of Siva to her
with your finger and said — "O lovely lady, see the attendants
of Siva and Siva Himself."

58. O sage, on seeing the innumerable Ganas, Bhutas
and Pretas, Menaka. was terribly frightened instantaneously.

59-61. On seeing Siva in their midst, the mother of
ParvatI trembled. She saw Siva who though devoid of attri-
butes was better than those who had all the attributes, He was
seated on the Bull. He had five faces 103 and three eyes. He
had ashes smeared over the body. He had matted hair with
the crescent moon on His head. He had ten hands with the
skull in one of them. His upper cloth was tiger's hide. He
held the bow Pinaka in one of his hands and the Trident in
another. He had odd eyes, ugly features utterly dishevelled
and untidy. He wore the hide of an elephant.

62. She was stunned, tremulous agitated and confused.
You said to her "This is Siva" and pointed Him out to her.

63. On hearing your words she fell on the ground
like a tender creeper blown by the wind. Mena the chaste
lady was grief-stricken.

64. "What is this ? I have been deceived for being
too ambitious. Of what use is it to see this deformity ?"
Saying this, Menaka fell unconscious there in a trice.

65. Her maids exerted themselves in various ways and
attended on her. Then gradually she, the beloved of the
lord of mountains, regained consciousness.

103. On the five-faced form of lord Siva see Note 25 P. 34>

656

CHAPTER FORTYFOUR

(Mena regains consciousness)

Brahma said: —

1-2. On regaining consciousness, the chaste beloved of
the mountain lamented with great agitation and began to
rebuke everyone. In faltering words she frequently censured
her sons at first and then scolded her daughter.

Mena. said ; —

3. O sage, formerly it was mentioned be you that
Parvati would marry Siva. Afterwards you assigned some
activity of worship to Himavat.

4. Its fruit is visible now, to be sure. But it is
adverse and meaningless. O sage, O wicked minded one, I
the innocent woman have been cheated by you by all means.

5. The fruit of penance which she performed and
which is very difficult even for the sages to perform, has been
this, painful to every onlooker.

6. What shall I do? Where shall I go? Who will
dispel my sorrow ? My family is wrecked. My life is
doomed.

7. Where are those so called celestial sages ? I shall pluck
out their beards. Where is that mischievous woman who
came here by herself in the guise of the wife of one of them ?

8. By whose guilt have I been ruined now ?" Saying
this she turned to her daughter and began to say harsh
words.

9. O wretched daughter, what is it that you have
done ? This is extremely painful to me. You have given
gold and brought a glass piece, O wicked girl.

10. You have cast away sandal paste and smeared
yourself with mud. You have driven away the swan and
have held a crow in your hands.

11. Setting aside the sacred river water you have
drunk the well-water. Losing the sun you have clung to the
glowworm in all earnestness.

12.. Throwing away cooked rice you have eaten the

Rudrasamhita

657

husk. Spilling away the clarified butter you have eagerly
swallowed castor oil.

13. Setting the lion aside a jackal has been served by
you. Without listening to the lore of Supreme Brahman 104
you have heard base ballads.

14. O daughter, casting off the holy sacrificial ashes
at home you have taken the inauspicious ashes from the
funeral pyre.

15. Abandoning the great lords, Visnu and others
you have performed penance for Siva. Your intellect has
really gone astray.

16. Fie on you. Fie on your intellect. Fie on your
beauty and conduct. Fie on your adviser. Fie on your
maids too.

17. Fie on us who brought you thus to the world,
O daughter. O Narada, fie on your intelligence and fie on
those seven sages who gave us wrong advice.

18. Fie on the whole family. Fie on the efficiency in
performing the rites. Fie on everything done by you.
You have inflamed this household. Almost it has been a
death blow to me.

19. Let not the king of the mountains come near me.
Let not the seven sages show their faces to me.

20. Has anything been achieved ? Our whole race
is wrecked by all conspiring together. How is it that I have
not remained a barren woman ? How is it that a miscarriage
did not take place when I conceived ?

2 1 . How is it that I did not die ? How is it that
this girl did not die ? Why is she not devoured by the
demons and others from the sky ?

22. I shall cut off your head. What shall I do with
the bodies ? Abandoning you where shall I go ? Alas, my
whole life is doomed.

Brahma said : —

23. After saying this Mena fell unconscious on the

104. It refers to the spiritual knowledge as revealed in the Upa-
nisads and other treatises, e.g. the identity of the individual soul with the
universal soul, the reality of the spirit over the unreality of the matter
and so on.

658

ground. Agitated by grief and anger she' did not go near
her husband.

24. There was a great hue and cry at that time, O
great sage. The gods came near her.

25. O celestial sage, I too came myself. On seeing
me, O excellent sage, you spoke to her.

Narada said : —

26. The real handsome form of Siva is not known
by you. This form is assumed by Siva in a sportive mood.
It is not the real form.

27. Hence, O chaste lady, cast off anger. Be calm.
Leave off your obduracy. Do what is proper to be done.
Give Parvati to Siva.

Brahma said : —

28. On hearing your words, Mena spoke to you — "O
wicked one, get up and go away. You are base".

29. When she said thus, Indra and all other gods and
the guardians of the quarters came and spoke.

The gods said : —

30. O Mena, O daughter of the Pitrs, listen to our
words joyously. This Siva is the Supreme lord Himself, the
bestower of the greatest happiness.

31. He is favourably disposed to good devotees. On
seeing your daughter's severe penance He had appeared
before her and granted her the boon.

Brahma said : —

32. Mena cried aloud frequently and spoke to the
gods — "My daughter will not be given to Siva of fierce
features.

33. Why have you all conspired together to render her
beauty futile ?"

34. O excellent sages, when she uttered thus, the
seven sages, Vasistha and others, came there and spoke : —

The seven sages said : —

35. "O daughter of the Pitrs, O beloved of the

Rudrasarhhitd

mountain, we have come here to achieve a purpose. In this
important affair how can we entertain opposite views ?

36. The very vision of Siva is the greatest gain. He
has come to your palace as the suppliant for your gift".

Brahma said : —

37. Though advised by them, Mena did not accept
their proposal. Weak in knowledge she spoke to the sages
in anger.

Mena said : —

38. I would rather slay her with weapons than give
her to Siva. All of you go away. You shall never come
near me.

Brahma said : —

39. O sage, on saying thus she stopped. She cried
aloud in great excitement. A great hue and cry ensued due
to her intercession.

40. Then Himacala himself came there extremely
agitated. In order to convince her he spoke lovingly pointing
to her the reality of the situation.

Himacala said : —

41. O beloved Mena, listen to my words. How is it
that you have become dispirited ? How many important
persons have come to our abode ! And you are insulting
them !

42. You do not know Siva. Siva has many names
and many forms. Seeing a peculiar distorted form you have
become excited.

43. He has been realised by me. He is the protector
of everyone. He is worthy of worship of the most adorable.
He can bless and countermand.

44. Do not be obstinate. O faultless beloved, do not
be grief-stricken. Get up. Hasten. O virtuous one, carry on
your duties.

45. Let me remind you of a former incident when
Siva came to our place in a hideous form and exhibited
his sports.

660

f ana

, 46. But on seeing his greatness we both consented to
give our daughter in marriage to him. O beloved, keep that
promise.

Brahma said: —

47. After saying thus, the lord of the mountains stopped,
O sage. On hearing it Mena, the mother of Siva, spoke to
Himavat.

Mena said: —

48-50. £t O lord, let my words be heard. You can
carry out what I say. Take your daughter Parvati, tie her
up and cast her down into a deep abysmal chasm. Or drown
her in the deep sea and be happy. I am not going to give
her to Siva. If you give your daughter to him who is of
hideous features, O lord, I shall certainly leave off this mortal
frame.

Brahma said: —

51. When these words were spoken by Mena in her
obduracy, Parvali voluntarily spoke in a sweet voice.

Parvati said: —

52. "O mother, your noble intellect has become
perverted. Why do you foresake virtue, you who ought to
depend on virtue alone ?

53. This Siva has no one else greater than him. He is
Siva, the source of everything. He is beautiful, pleasing and
eulogised in all the Vedas.

54. Siva is the benefactor. He is the lord of gods.
He is self-ruler. O mother, He is of many forms and names.
He is served by Visnu, Brahma and others.

55. He is the support of everything. He is the creator
and annihilator. He is free from aberrations. He is the lord
of the three deities. He is indestructible and eternal.

56. It is for him that all the gods, as attendants, have
come here. They stand in a festive mood at your threshold.
What more pleasure do you need ?

57. Hence get up. Endeavour to make your life fruit-
ful. Give me to Siva. Make my effort meaningful.

Rudrasartihita

661

58. O mother, give me to lord Siva. O mother, agree
to my humble entreaty. I request you.

59. If you do not give me to Siva, I am not going to
woo anyone else. How can a jackal, the cunning cheat,
seize the share of the lion ?

60. O mother, Siva has been wooed, yes, wooed by
me mentally, verbally, and physically. You can do what you
please.

Brahma said: —

61-62. On hearing these words of Parvati, Mena, the
beloved of the lord of mountains lamented much. She be-
came angry. She caught hold of Parvati and thrashed her
with fists, elbows gnashing her teeth. She was greatly agitat-
ed and furious.

63. O dear one, O sage, you and other sages who
were there, separated her from the mother and took her far
off.

64. Mena then rebuked them again and again. She
hurled harsh repulsive words at all of them.

Mend said: —

65. See what I will do to Parvati of evil inclination. I
will give her deadly poison or I will push her down in a
deep well.

66. Or I will cut her into many pieces with weapons
and arrows. Or I will drown my daughter Parvati in the
deep sea.

67. Or I will certainly cast off my body. But I will
never give my daughter to Siva of hideous form.

68. What an awful bridegroom has been secured by
this wicked girl ? The mountain and I, nay the whole family,
has been made a laughing stock.

69. He has neither a mother nor a father. He has no
brother no kinsman. He has not even a fellow clansman.
He has no beauty, no skill, not even a house of His own!

70. He has no good dress, no ornaments, no assistants.
His vehicle is not good. He is neither rich nor even in the
prime of youth.

71. He has no tidiness about him. He is not learned.

662

Sivapurana

What a repulsive body he has ! What has he, on seeing
which I may be tempted to give my good daughter to
him ?"

Brahma said: — ■

72. O sage she lamented thus and in many a similar
manner she cried in the excess of her grief.

73. Then I came there quickly and narrated to her
the principles of Siva which ought to have dispelled her
perverted knowledge.

74. "O Mena, you shall listen lovingly to my aus-
picious words whereby your evil inclination shall cease.

75. Siva is the creator, sustainer and annihilator of
the universe. You do not know His real form. Wherefore
do you then seek sorrow ?

76. The lord has several forms and names. He indulges
in many kinds of divine sports. He is the lord of all and
independent. He is the master of delusion and free from
doubtful alternatives.

77. Realising this, O Mena, give your daughter to
Siva. Abandon your misplaced stubbornness. Your evil
inclination is destructive of all affairs".

78. Thus addressed by me Mena continued to cry
again and again. Slowly, O sage, she eschewed all shame
and spoke to me.

Mend said: —

79- O Brahma, why do you render her excellent
beauty futile ? Why don't you kill her yourself ?

80. You shall not tell me again that she should be
given to Siva. I will not give my daughter, dearer than
my own life, to Siva.

Brahma said: —

81. O great sage, when she expressed thus, Sanaka
and other Siddhas came there and spoke lovingly.

Siddhas said: —

82. This Siva is the supreme being, the bestower of

Rudrasathhila

663

supreme happiness. Out of His sympathy He has granted
His vision to your daughter.

Brahma said: —

83. Then Mena said to them after sobbing frequently —
"My riches are not to be given to Siva of hideous form.

84-. Why are you Siddhas collectively attempting to
make her exquisite beauty futile ?"

85. When this was mentioned by her I became stunned.
All the gods, Siddhas, sages and human beings were bewil-
dered.

86. In the meantime, on hearing of her persistent
obduracy, Visnu a favourite of Siva came there and spoke as
follows.

Visnu said: —

87-88- You are the beloved mental daughter of the
Pitxs. You are endowed with all good qualities. You are
wife of Himavat himself. Yours is the excellent race of
Brahma. Your well-wishers in the world are also like him
(Brahma). You are really blessed. What more can I say?
You are reputed to be a patron of virtue. Why do you then
eschew virtue ?

89. May this be pondered over by you yourself. Can
anything against you be mentioned by the gods, sages, or
Brahma or by myself ?

90. You do not know Siva. He is both possessed and
devoid of attributes. He is hideous as well as comely. He is
worthy of worship by all. He is the ultimate goal of the
good.

91. The primordial nature is created by Him alone.
Near her, the excellent primordial Being has also been
created by Him.

92. Brahma and I are created thereafter. Then, with
the three attributes, Siva Himself, incarnated in order to be
beneficial to the worlds.

93. The Vedas originated from Him. The gods sprang
up from Him. Whatever mobile and immobile there is in the
universe, sprang up from him.

94. Who has described His form ? By whom can it be

664

Sivapurana.

known ? Even Brahma and I were not able to gauge him.

95. Whatever is seen in the universe from Brahma
down to a blade of grass is identical with Siva. Know it.
There need not be any hesitation in this matter.

96. He alone, in the course of his divine sport, has
incarnated himself in divine form. It was by the fascination
of Parvatl's penance that He has come to your threshold.

97. Hence, O wife of Himavat, eschew your sorrow.
Worship Siva. You will have great pleasure. All pain will
be quelled.

Brahma said: —

98. O sage, when instructed by Visnu, Menaka's mind
was somewhat softened.

99. But she did not give up her obduracy- She did
not consent to the proposal of giving her daughter to Siva.
Mena was deluded by Siva's magic.

100. On hearing the pleasing words of Visnu, the
beloved of the mountain, the mother of Parvatl became
slightly enlightened and spoke to Visnu.

101. If He assumes a lovely form and body my
daughter may be given to Him and not otherwise even if you
attempt it a thousand times. This is my firm decision.

102. After saying thus Mena of steady resolve kept
quiet. She was induced by Siva's will whose magical power
deludes all.

CHAPTER FORTYFIVE

[diva's comely form and the Jubilation of the
Citizens

Brahma said : —

1. In the meantime, O sage, urged by Visnu you
went immediately to Siva to conciliate Him.

2. After reaching there, with a desire to get the task
of the gods fulfilled, you pleaded with Siva after eulogising
Him with different kinds of hymns.

Rudrasaihhita

665

3. On hearing your words Siva joyously assumed a
wonderfully excellent and divine form and showed His
mercifulness.

4. O sage, on seeing the comely form of Siva, the
receptacle of exquisite beauty, far better than that of the
cupid, you were greatly delighted.

5. Highly delighted you eulogised Him again and
again with different kinds of hymns and returned to the
place where Mena was seated along with other gods.

6. Reaching there, O sage, with great affection and
delight, you spoke to the great pleasure of Mena, the wife of
Himavat.

Narada said : —

7. O Mena of wide eyes, see the excellent features of
Siva. The merciful Siva has taken great pity on us.

Brahma said : —

8. Extremely surprised on hearing your words, Mena
the beloved wife of the mountain, saw Siva's form that
afforded great bliss.

9-12. It was as refulgent as that of a thousand suns.
Every part of the body was exquisite. The garments were
of variegated colours. He was embellished with different
ornaments. He was smiling with great delight. His comeli-
ness was highly pleasing. He was fair-complexioned and
lustrous. The crescent moon added to his beauty. Visnu
and other gods lovingly served Him. The sun acted
as His royal umbrella. The moon embellished Him. In
every way He was extremely handsome bedecked in orna-
ments. It was impossible to describe adequately the great
beauty of His vehicle.

13. The Ganga, and the Yamuna were waving the
Chowries. The eight Siddhis 105 danced in front of Him-

14. Visnu, I, Indra and the other gods bedecked their
bodies and dress and accompanied Siva.

15. The Ganas of various forms and features shouted

105. The eightfold Siddhis are personified here. For details see
Note 203 P. 235

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Sivapurana

cries of "Victory" "Victory" and walked in front of Siva.

16. The Siddhas, the secondary gods, the extremely
delighted sages went in company of Siva. The others too
were equally delighted.

17. Thus the fully decorated gods, were very jubilant
and in the company of their wives they eulogised Siva, the
Supreme Brahman.

18. Visvavasu 108 and others along with the celestial
damsels sang songs of Siva's glory.

19. O excellent sage, when Siva was nearing the
threshold of the palace of Himavat, there was much jubila-
tion there.

20. O excellent sage, who can describe the exquisite
splendour of the supreme lord at that time.

21. On seeing Him in that form Mena. stood stunned
as though drawn in a picture for a moment, O sage, and
spoke these words.

Mena said : —

22. O great lord, my daughter is indeed blessed, she
by whom the great penance was performed. It is by virtue
of that penance that you have come to my threshold.

23. O lord of ParvatI, be pleased now. Pardon me
for the heap of repulsive words I showered on Siva.

Brahma said : —

24. After saying thus and eulogising the moon-crested
lord, Mena, the beloved of the mountain, bowed to Him
with palms joined in reverence and stood shy.

25. By that time the ladies of the town left the
work they were engaged in, in their eagerness to see Siva.

26. A certain lady in the midst of her bath and toilet
was overwhelmed with the desire to see Siva, the bridegroom
of ParvatI. She came out with the shampoo powder still
held in her hands.

106. Visvavasu is the chief of the Gandharvas in Indra's heaven.
He is a famous musician and is said to possess all girls from the advent
of their youth and transfer them to Agni from whom the bridegrooms
obtain them for producing wealth and sons.

Ru drasarhhita

667

27. A certain lady engaged in fanning her husband
in the company of her maid left that job and came out to see
Siva with the fan still in her hands.

28. Another lady engaged in suckling her babe at her
breast left him dissatisfied and came out eagerly to see
the lord.

29. Another lady engaged in trying her waist girdle
came out with it. Another lady came out with garments
worn inside out.

30. Another lady left her husband who had sat down
to dine and came out athirsting and enthusiastic to see
the bridegroom.

31. A certain lady holding the collyrium in her hand
after applying it to one of her eyes came out to see the
bridegroom of the daughter of the mountain with the salve
stick still in her hand.

32. Another damsel engaged in applying the red lac
juice to her feet heard the tumult outside and so left it in
the middle and came out to see the procession.

33. Thus the ladies forsook their activities, left their
houses and came out. On seeing the exquisite form of Siva
they were greatly fascinated.

34. Delighted on seeing Siva and overwhelmed by
affection they cherished the comely form in their hearts and
spoke as follows : —

The ladies said: —

35. The eyes of the residents of this town have become
fruitful. The life of the persons who have seen this comely
form has become meaningful.

36. The life is fruitful and the rites are fruitful only
of the person who has seen Siva, the destroyer of all sins.

37. Parvati has accomplished everything in asmuch
as she performed penance for Siva. She is blessed, she is con-
tented in securing Siva as her husband.

38. If Brahma had not joined this pair, Siva and Siva,
his endeavour of creation would have entirely become fruidess.

39. This is well done. The excellent pair has been
united. Everything has become meaningful in every activity.

40. A vision of Siva is inaccessible to men without

668

Sivapurana

penance. All of us have now become contented by seeing
Siva.

41. Just as Laksmi was blessed by securing Visnu as
her lord, formerly, so also the gentle lady Parvati has
become embellished on securing Siva.

42. Just as SarasvatI was blessed by securing Brahma,
as her husband, so also the gentle lady Parvati has become
embellished on getting Siva as her husband.

43. All of us, men and women, are blessed — we
who see Siva, the lord of all, the husband of Parvati.

Brahma said : —

44. Saying thus they worshipped Siva with sandal
paste and raw rice grains. They showered Him with fried
grains respectfully.

45. The ladies standing near Mena, were enthusiastically
praising the good luck of Mena and the mountain.

46. Hearing the auspicious stores and anecdotes of the
ladies, the lord became delighted, O sage, along with Visnu
and others.

CHAPTER FORTYSIX

[The arrival of the bridegroom)

Brahma said: —

1. The delighted Siva accompanied by His Bhutas,
Ganas, gods' and others went to the abode of the mountain
zealously.

2. Mena, the exquisite beloved of Himacala, got up
from her seat and went into the harem along with the women-
folk.

3. For the customary Nlrajana (waving of lights)
rites of Siva, the chaste lady came near the entrance with
lights and vessels in her hands along with womenfolk of the
sages.

4. Mena saw with pleasure lord Siva, the bridegroom

Rudrasarhhitd

of Parvati, served by all the gods and who by that time had
come there.

5-11. S iva had the complexion of the colour of the
Campaka flower. He had only one face but retained the
three eyes. The face was beaming with a simple smile. He
was bedecked in gems and gold and wore a garland of
MalatI flowers. The gemset crown was lustrous. He wore
brilliant necklaces. He was bedecked in bangles and
bracelets of fine workmanship. He was shining well with
the two clothes of great value, fine texture and unrivalled
beauty and purified in fire. Highly embellished in sandal
paste, aguruj musk and fine saffron, he had a gemset mirror
in his hand and his eyes were lustrous with the collyrium.
He was shedding a halo around him enveloping everything.
He was extremely beautiful. He appeared to be very young.
His limbs had the full complement of their ornaments. He
was very attractive to the ladies. He was not nervous or
self-conscious. His Iotuslike face had the brilliance of a
thousand moons. His body shone with a refulgence more
than that of a thousand cupids. He was beautiful in every
limb. Seeing the lord thus as her son-in-law, Mena forgot
all her grief. She was glad.

12. She praised her good luck, She congratulated
Parvati, the mountain and his entire family. She congratula-
ted herself. She rejoiced again and again.

13. Gazing at her son-in-law joyously with beaming
face, the chaste lady performed the Nirajana rite.

14. Remembering what Parvati had told her, Mena.
was agreeably surprised and with a beaming lotus-like face
full of delight she muttered to herself.

15. "I see the beauty of the great lord far in excess of
what Parvati had told me before.

16. Siva's loveliness cannot be expressed adequately
now." In the same state of pleasant surprise she went in.

17. The young ladies proclaimed that the daughter of
the mountain was fortunate. Some girls said that she had
become a goddess.

18. Some said — "Such a bridegroom has never been seen,
not to our knowledge." Some girls said to Mena— "Parvati is
really blessed."

670

Sivapurarta

19. The chief of Gandharvas sang songs. The celestial
damsels danced. On seeing Siva's lovely form, the gods were
delighted.

20. The instrument players played on musical
instruments in sweet tones showing their diverse skill.

21. The delighted Himacala too carried out the
customary rites of reception at the entrance. Mena also
jubilantly took part in the same along with all the women-
folk.

22. She made formal inquiries about the health of the
bridegroom and gladly went into the house. Siva went to
the apartments assigned to Him along with the Ganas and
the gods.

23. In the meantime the servant-maids in the harem
of the mountain took Parvati out in order to worship the
tutelar family deity.

24-30. There the gods saw joyously with winkless eyes
the bride of dark complexion like the collyrium, and fully
bedecked in ornaments in every limb. With a side glance
she was respectfully looking at the three-eyed lord avoiding
the eyes of others. With a gentle smile playing in her face
she appeared very beautiful. Her plaited hair was thickly
grown and looked beautiful. Decorative lines over her body
were exquisite. She had the Tilaka with musk and saffron.
Gemset necklace shone over her chest. Bracelets and bangles
of gems and jewels shone brilliantly. With diamond ear-
rings her cheeks appeared brilliant. Her rows of teeth
sparkled like diamonds. Red lac applied over her lips which
were naturally red like Bimba fruits was exquisite. She had
a gemset mirror in her hand. A toy lotus also embellished
her. Sandal paste, aguru musk and saffron were smeared
over the body by her. Her feet and soles were naturally
red. Tinkling anklets added to their beauty.

31. On seeing the primordial deity, the mother of the
universe along with Menaka, the gods and others bowed
down their heads with great devotion.

32. The three-eyed deity saw her with the corner of
an eye and was glad. On seeing the shapely body of SatI he
forgot the pangs of separation.

33. With his eyes riveted to her, he forgot everything

Rudrasarhhila

else. Hair stood on ends all over bis body, as he continued
seeing her with delight.

34. Then Parvati went out of the city, worshipped the
family goddess and returned to her parental abode along
with the brahmin women.

35. Siva went to the apartments indicated by
Himacala, joyously along with the gods, Visnu and
Brahma.

36. All of them stayed there with joy, attending on
Siva. They were duly honoured by Himavat, the mountainous
lord.

CHAPTER FORTYSEVEN

( The ceremonious entry of Sina into the inner apartments
of the palace of Himavat)

Brahma said: —

1. Then the chief of mountains caused the investiture
rite with the sacred thread for Parvati and Siva with the
Vedic hymns recited enthusiastically.

2. Then Visnu, the other gods and the sages entered
the inner apartments of the palace of the mountain
enthusiastically at the request of Himacala.

3. After performing the conventional rites in accordance
with the Vedic injunctions and the social customs they
decorated Parvati with the ornaments provided by Siva.

4. First of all she was bathed, then bedecked with
the ornaments. The Nirajana rites too were also performed
by the maids and brahmin women.

5. The daughter of the mountain and the beloved of
Siva, the lovely lady shone with the pair of fresh

clothes. .

6. O sage, an exquisite divine jacket studded with
various gems was worn by the goddess who shone all the

more. . .

7. She wore a necklace studded with divine gems.

Costly bangles of pure gold were worn by her.

672

Sivapurana

8. The lovely lady, the daughter of the great moun-
tain, the mother of the three worlds staying there itself
meditated on Siva and shone thereby.

9. Then there was great jubilation delighting both the
sides. Different kinds of charitable gifts were distributed
among the brahmins.

10. Monetary gifts were distributed among others.
They were diverse. Many songs were sung jubilantly.

11. Then Visnu, I the creator, Indra and other gods
as well as the sages joined in jubilation with great
pleasure.

12. Then after bowing humbly to Parvati with
devotion and remembering the lotus-like feet of Siva they
returned to their camps obtaining the permission of
Himavat.

13. In the meantime Garga, a great expert in the
science of astrology, spoke to Himavat, the lord of
mountains.

Garga said:—

14. O Himavat, O lord, O father of Parvati, now
fetch Siva to your palace for the marriage rites.

Brahma said: —

15. On realising that the auspicious time for the
marriage rites had been intimated by Garga, the mountain
rejoiced much.

16. With the desire to bring Siva there, the moun-
tain gladly sent mountains, brahmins and others.

17. The mountains and brahmins with auspicious
holy objects in their hands jubilantly went to the place
where lord Siva stood.

18. Then the sound of the Vedic chants, musical
instruments, songs and dances jubilantly arose there.

19. On hearing the loud sound of musical instruments
trumpets etc. the attendants of Siva simultaneously got up
joyously along with the gods and sages.

20. With great joy in their minds they said to one
another— "O here come the mountains to take Siva
over there !

Rudrasarhhita

673

21. The auspicious hour for marriage rites has come.
We consider that our fortune is imminent.

22. Indeed we are highly blessed as to witness the
marriage ceremony of Siva and ParvatI, highly portentous
of the good fortune of all the worlds."

Brahma said: —

23. Even as these confabulations were going on, the
ministers of the lord of mountains came there.

24. They approached Siva, Visnu and others and made
their submission that the time for the celebration of marriage
had arrived and that they would please hasten to the
palace.

25. On hearing that, O sage, Visnu and others
rejoiced much and cried shouts of victory to the mountain.

26. Siva too rejoiced much eager that he was
approaching ParvatI but kept the signs of joy within his
mind alone in a wonderfully serene manner.

27. Then the ceremonial ablution with the sacred
articles of toilet, was performed by the delighted trident-
bearing lord eager to bless the worlds.

28. The bath being over He wore fine clothes. He
was attended upon by the guardians of the quarters and
surrounded by several others. He was then seated on the
shoulders of the Bull.

29. With the lord in front, all of them entered the
palace of Himavat playing on various musical instruments
and exhibiting their eagerness.

30. The brahmins sent by Himavat and the excellent
mountains enthusiastically went ahead of Siva.

31. The great royal umbrella was held aloft over the
great lord. He was fanned by chowries and a canopy
was spread over Him.

32. Visnu, Indra, the other guardians of the quarters
and I going ahead shone with great brilliance and
splendour.

33. In that great festivity conches were blown,
drums were beaten and the musical instruments, pa^aha,
Anaka and Gomukha were played on, repeatedly.

674

Sinapurana

34. Musicians sang auspicious songs. Dancing girls
danced to the tune.

35. Accompanied by these, attended upon by all
important gods and with flowers showered on Him delightedly,
the sole kinsman of the universe walked ahead shedding
lordly splendour.

36. Lord Siva, eulogised with many hymns of praise,
entered the sacrificial altar. He was duly worshipped.

37. The excellent mountains jubilantly made Siva
dismount the bull and lovingly took Him within.

38. After duly bowing to Siva who arrived there with
the gods and Ganas, Himavat performed the Nlrajana with
great devotion.

39. Praising his own good luck and bowing to all the
gods, sages and others jubilantly he honoured them suitably.

40. The mountain, after offering Padya and Arghya
to them, took Siva along with Visnu and the important gods,
within.

41. In the quadrangle inside he made us, Visnu,
Siva and other important persons sit on gemset thrones.

42. The Nlrajana rites was then performed by Mena,
her maids and the brahmin women as well as other ladies
of the city with joy.

43. The necessary rites such as offering of Madhuparka
etc. to Siva, the supreme soul, were joyously performed by
the priest who knew his duties.

44-45. O sage, urged by me, the priest carried out
the auspicious rites relevant to the context after entering
the enclosure where the altar had been built along with
Himavat. Parvati bedecked in all her ornaments was seated
as the bride.

46. She was seated over the raised platform and Siva
was led along with Visnu and me.

47. Waiting for the auspicious Lagna befitting marriage,
Brhaspati and others became jubilant.

48. Garga was seated in the place where the chrono-
meter 107 had been kept. The Orhkara Mantra was repeated

107. Ghatika or a waterclock was not only useful for carrying the
nuptial programme at proper times but was also symbolical of time that
ruled over the entire universe.

Rudrasarhhita

675

during the interval before the Lagna.

49. Repeating the Punyaha mantras, Garga lifted the
handful of rice-grains and handing them over to Parvati he
made her shower it on Siva.

50. Siva was duly worshipped by the joyful and sweet-
faced Parvati with the rice-grains mixed with curd and
Darbha water.

51. Gazing at Siva for whom great penance had
been performed by her formerly, Parvati shone beaming with
pleasure.

52. Requested by me and the sages Garga and
others, Siva, following the worldly conventions worshipped
her.

53. Thus, worshipping each other Siva and Parvati
identifying themselves with the universe, shone well.

54. Both of them, enveloped by the glory of the three
worlds and gazing at each other, were offered the Nirajana
by Laksmi and other ladies particularly.

55. The brahmin ladies and the citizen ladies
performed the Nirajana rites. All of them derived great
pleasure and gaiety on seeing Siva and Parvati.

CHAPTER FORTYEIGHT

[Description of Marriage)

Brahma said: —

1. In the meantime, urged by the priest Garga
Himavat started the rite of marriage in the company of
Mena.

2. Himavat and Mena held the gold pot on either
side. Himavat was bedecked in fine clothes and ornaments.

3. The joyous mountain with the assistance of his
priest wooed the bridegroom after offering water, clothes,
ornaments, sandal paste etc.

\ 4. Then the brahmins were requested by Himavat

I

676

"May the rite be formally started after narrating the Tithi
etc. The auspicious hour has come."

5. After saying "So be it", the excellent brahmins
who knew the proper time proclaimed the Tithi etc. very
delightedly.

6. Then Himacala mentally urged with pleasure by
lord Siva, the cause of great enjoyment, smilingly spoke to
Siva.

7. "O Siva, please do not delay. Please mention your
genealogy, saintly lineage, 108 family, name and your Veda
along with your branch of the Vedas."

Brahma said: —

8. On hearing these words of Himavat, Siva of sweet
face, turned His face away. He without sorrow attained a
pitiable plight.

9. When lord Siva stood thus unable to say anything
in reply and was seen so by the gods, sages, Gandharvas,
Yaksas, and Siddhas, O Narada, you did something
laughable.

10. Urged by Siva mentally O Narada, you, the
knower of Brahman with mind fixed in Siva, played on your
Vina.

11. You were forbidden strictly by the lord of
mountains, Visnu, gods, sages and by me.

12. When at the will of Siva you did not desist from
it, you were again spoken to thus by the mountain then —
"Do not play on the Vina now."

13. O celestial sage, O wise one, when you were thus
strenuously forbidden, you remembered Siva and spoke to the
lord of the mountains.

Narada said: —

14. You have been utterly deluded. You do not know

108. Before the bride is given away to the bridegroom, the names
of the ancestors of both the parties with Gotra and Pravara are
announced loudly so that the people assembled should know that both,
the bride and the bridegroom, come of good families, the pedigree of
which can be traced to many generations. The ceremony is called
Gotroccara in the Grhyasutras.

Rudrasaihhita

677

anything about Siva of whom you speak. You have no
inner vision.

15. Siva was directly asked by you to mention His
Gotra. On this occasion these words are utterly ridiculous
and derisible.

16. O mountain, even Visnu, Brahma and other gods
do not know His Gotra, family and name. What then can be
said about others ?

17. It was a result of the severe penance of Parvati
' that Siva was seen by you, O mountain, in one day

according to whose calculation a crore of Brahma s become
annihilated.

18. He is the formless supreme Brahman. He is attri-
buteless. He is greater than Primordial Nature. He has no
shape, is free from aberrations He is the master of delusion.
He is greater than the greatest.

19. He has no Gotra, family or name. He is inde-
pendent. He is favourably disposed to His devotees. At
His will He assumes bodies taking many names. He is full of
attributes.

20. He is sugotrin (having good gotra) as well as
devoid of gotra. He is of noble family as well as devoid of
a family. Thanks to Parvati's penance. He has now become
your son-in-law, There is no doubt about it.

21. The whole world consisting of the mobile and
immobile has been deluded by Him in His divine sport. O
excellent mountain, even the wisest of men does not know
Him.

22. The head of lord Siva of phallic image was not
seen by Brahma. Visnu who went to the nether worlds
did not see His foot. How surprised he was.

23. O excellent mountain, of what avail is this talk ?
Siva's magical power is inscrutable. The three worlds, Visnu
Brahma and others too are subservient to Him.

24. Hence, O father of Parvati, ponder over this deep-
ly. No doubt need be entertained by you even slightly with
respect to this bridegroom of your choice.

Brahma said: —

! 25. O sage, after saying this, you, of perfect wisdom,

i'

|9

678

SivapurSna

who carried out the will of Siva replied again to the
mountain after delighting him with your words.

Ndrada said: —

26. O dear, O great mountain, O father of ParvatT,
listen to my words. After hearing them, give your daughter
to Siva.

27. Know that the divine sound alone is the gotra,
and family of Siva in His divine form, who assumes forms in
His divine sport.

28. Siva is identical with Nada. 109 And Nada is identi-
cal with Siva. There is no difference between the two —
Nada and Siva.

29. O lord of mountains, Nada being prior to Siva in
His sportive, attributive form, Nada is the most excellent of
all.

30. Hence, O Himacala, mentally urged by Siva, the
lord of al], I played upon my lute.

Brahma said: —

31. O sage, on hearing your words, Himavat, the lord
of mountains was satisfied and the bewilderment in his mind
vanished.

32. Then Visnu, the other gods and the sages said
"Well done, Well done". They were freed of all bewilder-
ment.

33. The shrewd people realised the majesty of lord
Siva. They were pleasantly surprised and began to say to
one another.

34. "Siva is of the form of knowledge. He is greater
than the greatest. It is at His bidding that the vast universe
is born. He is of independent movement. He can be
realised by the greatest concentration. He, the lord of the
three worlds, is now seen by us."

35. Then Meru and the excellent mountains became
agitated and simultaneously spoke to Himavat, the lord of
mountains.

109. Nada is a mystical sound identical with Siva which symbolises
his mystical origin.

Rudrasarhhita

679

The mountains said: —

36. O mountain, be firm and stand by your decision
to give your daughter. If you say "No", you stand to lose.
We speak the truth. Do not hesitate. Let the girl be given
to Siva.

Brahma said: —

37. On hearing the words of his friends, Himavat
urged by Brahma gave his daughter to Siva.

38. "O lord Siva, I am giving this girl, my daughter
to you as your wife. O lord of all, be pleased to accept
her."

39. Himavat gave his daughter ParvatI, the mother of
the three worlds, to Siva the great, repeating the mantra
"Tasmai Rudraya Mahate".

40. Placing the hand of ParvatI in the hand of Siva
the mountain rejoiced much mentally. He had the satis-
faction of crossing the ocean of his ambition.

41. Siva grasped the lotus-like hand of ParvatI in his
hand repeating the Vedic mantras. Lord Siva was greatly
delighted.

42. Touching the ground and showing the worldly
course of action, O sage, Siva recited the mantra "Kamasya
Kodat". 110

43. There was a great jubilation everywhere that
gladdened everyone. Cries of "Victory" rose up in the
heaven, the earth and the sky.

44. The delighted people shouted "Well done" and
"Obeisance to you". The Gandharvas sang sweetly with
pleasure. The celestial damsels danced.

45. The citizens, the subjects of Himavat rejoiced in
their minds. There was great auspicious jubilation.

46. Visnu, Indra, I and the gods were delighted, with
the faces beaming like full blown lotuses.

47. Then the gleeful lord of mountains gave the ancil-
lary articles of present to Siva in a fitting manner.

48. Then his kinsmen worshipped Siva with devotion

no. VS. 7.48. The mantra begins with ^tS^RT BRTcT

680

Sivapwrana

and gave Parvati and monetary presents to Siva in accordance
with the various injunctions of the Sastras.

49. O excellent sage, in order to please Siva and
Parvati, the delighted Himavat presented many gifts of
articles.

50. He gave to Siva some articles as dowry. Differ-
ent kinds of gems and gemset vessels were given to him.

51. He gave a hundred thousand cows, a hundred
horses duly fitted up and a hundred thousand servant maids
of loving nature and endowed with all necessary articles.

52. O sage, he gave a crore of elephants and chariots
inlaid with gold and made beautiful by gems.

53. Thus Himavat attained perfect satisfaction after
giving his daughter Parvati to Siva, the great lord, in accor-
dance with the rules.

54. Then the lord of mountains with palms joined in
reverence eulogised lord Siva joyously with the hymns of
the Yajurveda. 111

55. Then at his behest, the sages jubilantly performed
the holy ablution over the head of Parvati. Being conversant
with the Vedas he asked them specially to perform this.

56. Repeating the names of lord Siva, they performed
Paryuksana rite, lla There was a great jubilation and gaiety,
O sage.

CHAPTER FORTYNINE

( The delusion of Brahma)

Brahma said: —

1. Then at my behest, the lord made the brahmins
kindle the sacrificial fire and performed the homa, placing
Parvati on the lap.

in. Madhyandina is a popular recension of the white Yajurveda
of which the mantras are used by the priests in the nuptial and other
ceremonies.

H2. It is a sprinkling of water collected from the sacred rivers by
means of the leaves of sacred trees.

Rudrasarhhita

681

2. Siva poured offerings into the fire with Mantras
from RK, Yajus and Sama Vedas. Parvatl's brother Mainaka
offered handfuls of fried grains. 11 *

3. Then according to the worldly convention, Parvati
and Siva performed the circumambulation 114 round the fire,
O dear.

4. The husband of Parvati exhibited a wonderful feat.

0 celestial sage, listen to that. I shall mention it out of
love for you.

5. On that occasion, deluded by Siva's power of illusion

1 stared at the feet of the goddess as well as the crescent-
shaped nails.

6. On seeing them, O celestial sage, I became over-
whelmed by passion. My mind was greatly disturbed.

7. Deluded by the cupid I stared at her limbs frequ-
ently. Then, immediately after staring at them, my semen
dropped on the ground.

8. I, the grandfather, was ashamed by the emission of
my semen. O sage, I pressed the penis secretly with my
feet.

9. O Narada, on coming to know of it, the great God
Siva became furious. He wanted to kill me immediately
because I was overwhelmed by lust.

10. O Narada, there was great hue and cry everywhere.
All the people trembled. Even Visnu, the sustainer of the
universe, was terrified.

11. O sage, then Visnu and other gods eulogised Siva
who was blazing furiously and who attempted to kill me.

The gods said: —

12. O lord of gods, O pervader of the universe, O
Sadasiva, O lord of the universe, O lord of the world or the
very world itself, be pleased.

13. You are the supreme soul, the supreme lord and
the cause of all emotions. You are free from aberrations,

113. Tire brother df the bride pours out of his joined hands in,to
her joined hands fried rice grains mixed with Saml leaves. The bride
sacrifices them with firmly joined hands standing, while the brid«gcooBa
recites the verses. For details see P.G.S. 1.6. i-a.

114. See Note .70. P. 358.

682

Sivapuraria

devoid of wastage. You are eternal, free from suspicions and
doubts. You are undying. You are the great god.

14. You are Truth, Brahman and Consciousness. You
are imperishable, from whom have originated the beginning,
the end and the middle of visible worlds, even I too.
These visible things are not the true ones.

15. The sages, desirous of liberation, worship and
meditate upon your lotus feet. They are steady in their
resolve. They avoid attachment on either side.

16. You are the perfect Brahman, the nectar, free
from grief, devoid of attributes and the great one. You are
the sole bliss, free from excitement, aberrations and even
static and insentient.

1 7. You are the cause of production, sustenance and
dissolution of the universe Siva, the lord of souls, is greater
than the universe. He is free from the necessity of its aid.
He is always pervasive.

18. You are the One, both Sat and Asat. You are
non-dual. Gold whether as the basic metal or as the ready
made ornament does not alter in its basic and intrinsic
essence.

19. People have doubts in you by their ignorance. The
remedy for illusion lies in thinking on your Nirguna aspect,
not by itself.

20. O supreme lord, we are blessed by your very
vision. O Siva, you are the bestower of supreme bliss to the
people who are steady in their devotion. Have mercy.

21. You are the primordial Being. You have no
beginning. You are the Purusa beyond the Prakrti. You
are the lord of the universe. You are the lord of the world.
You are free from aberrations. You are greater than the
greatest.

22. Your Rajasika manifestation is Brahma, the
grandfather. O lord, thanks to your grace, Visnu is
Purusottama by your Sattvika nature.

23. Your Tamasika manifestation is Rudra, the fire of
dissolution. Siva is beyond the attributes, the great lord and
omnipresent.

24. O great lord of universal form, the manifest, the

Rudrasarhhita

683

great principle, the elements, the Tanmatras, and the sense-
organs are presided over by you.

25. O supreme lord, O merciful Siva, O lord of gods,
be pleased, O best of Beings, be pleased.

26. The seven oceans 115 are your clothes. The quarters
are your long arms. The firmament is your head, O all-
pervasive. The sky is your navel. The wind is your nose.

27. O lord, the fire, the sun and the moon are your
eyes. The clouds are your hair. The planets and the stars
are your ornaments.

28. O lord of gods, how shall I eulogise you ? O
supreme lord, you are beyond description. O Siva, you are
incomprehensible to the mind.

29. Obeisance to Thee, the five-faced Rudra. Obeis-
ance to thee, with fifty crores of forms. Obeisance to thee,
the lord of three deities. Obeisance to the most excellent
one. Obeisance to the principle of learning.

30. Obeisance, Obeisance to the inexpressible, the
eternal, the lightning-flamed, the flame-coloured. Obeisance
to lord Siva.

31. Obeisance, obeisance to thee stationed in the
world with the form resembling a crore of lightning streaks,
consisting of eight corners and very lustrous.

Brahma said: —

32. On hearing their words, lord Siva was delighted.
Favourably disposed to his devotees he offered me freedom
from fear.

33. O dear, then Visnu, the other gods and the sages
began to smile and became merry.

34. O dear, my semen pressed very frequently, turned
into several sparkling drops.

35. Thousands of sages called Valakhilyas sprang up
from the sparkling drops.

36. O sage, then the sages, gathered near me with
great pleasure and said — "O father O father".

115. The seven mythical oceans are personified here. For details
see S.M. Ali, Geography of the PurSnas, Gh. II. on seven continents and
oceans.

684

Swapurma

3.7. They were then sternly told by you urged by
Siva's wish. The Valakhilyas were rebuked angrily by you.

Narada said: —

38. All of you together go to the mountain Gandha-
madana. 116 You shall not stay here. No purpose shall be
served by your staying here.

39. After performing great penance you will become
great sages and disciples of the sun. This has been said by
me at the behest of Siva.

Brahma said: —

40. Thus addressed, all the Valakhilyas went immedia-
tely to the mountain Gandhamadana after bowing to Siva.

41. O excellent sage, I was able to breathe fearlessly,
thanks to Visnu and others, the noble souls urged by lqrd
Siva.

42. After knowing that Siva favourably disposed to
H[is devotees can do everything and dispel the pride of the
wicked, I eulogised Him, the lord of all.

43. O great God, O lord of gods, the ocean of mercy,
you are the creator, the sustainer and the annihilator of
everything.

44. It is at your will that the entire world including
the mobile and immobile is kept checked as the bulls amongst
a series of cows.

45. After saying so I bowed to Him with palms joined
in reverence. Visnu and others too eulogised lord Siva.

46. On hearing the piteous eulogies made by me as
well as by Visnu and others lord Siva became delighted.

47. He granted me the boon of fearlessness delightedly.
All were happy, O sage, and I rejoiced much.

u6. See Note 309 P. 405

RudrasarflhitS 685'
CHAPTER FIFTY

{Description of fun and frolic)

Brahma said: —

1 . O Narada, thereafter at the bidding of Siva, I
carried out the concluding ceremonies of the wedding of Siva
and Parvati joyously through the sages.

2. Their ceremonial head-bath 117 was respectfully gone
through. The brahmins showed the Pole star Dhruva 118 with
respect.

3. Thereafter the rite of Hrdayalambhana 119 was per-
formed. O great brahmin, then Svastipatha 120 was jubilantly
celebrated.

4. At the behest of the brahmins, Siva applied Red
powder 121 on the head of Parvati. The lustre of Parvati at
that time was beyond description and very wondrous.

5. Thereafter at the bidding of the brahmins both sat
on the same cushion and attained such a lustre as accentuated
joy in the hearts of the devotees.

6. O sage, then they returned to their apartment and,
at my behest performed the rite of Sariisrava Prasana*, of
wonderful sportive nature that they were.

7. When the sacrificial rites in marriage ceremony were
thus concluded duly, lord Siva gave the Purnapatra 122 to me,
the creator of the worlds.

117. The bride is sprinkled on her head. The ceremony renders the
bride free from physical troubles and sanctifies her for the married life.

118. In the night the bridegroom shows to the bride the polar
star— a performance suggestive of firmness in the conjugal life.

119. The husband touches the heart of the bride reaching over her
right shoulder. The heart is the centre of feelings: By touching it the
husband symbolically tries to rouse them and make them flow out to
meet his own heart and thus unite them in the world of love.

120. VS 2^.19 and Ibid 25.14. These verses are usually recited on
auspicious occasions.

121. The printing of red lead on the head of the bride by the
bridegroom is the most striking feature of the present day marriage
ceremonies, nowhere mentioned in the Grhyasutras. The later Paddhiftis,
however, refer to this custom. Cf. Gadadhara on P.G-S. 1.8.C?.

* It is the ceremonial licking up of the remains of libation.

122. At the end of the nuptial ceremony, a vessel full of raw rifce
grains is given to the officiating priest who conducts the nuptials: A cow,
as a ceremonial gift, is also offered along with some hard cash and clothes.

686

§ivapurai}a

8. Siva then made the gift of cows to the presiding
priest. Other gifts of auspicious nature were also made.

9. He gave the brahmins a hundred gold pieces each.
A crore of gems and other articles were distributed among
the people as gifts.

10. The Gods, mobile and immobile creatures, rejoiced
much. Shouts of victory rose up.

11. Auspicious sounds of music were heard everywhere.
The sound of the musical instruments was pleasing and
increased the joy of everyone.

12. Visnu accompanied by me, all the gods and sages
took leave of the mountain and returned to their abodes.

13. The ladies in the city of the mountain then took
Siva and Parvati to the abode of Kubera.

14. There several social customs and conventions were
gone through by the ladies. All round, there was great
jubilation.

15. Then the couple, benefactors of the people, were
led near the bed chamber. It was exquisitely decorated
according to convention.

16. The ladies of the city ofHimavat approached them
and performed the customary auspicious rites.

1 7. Shouting cries of victory they untied the knot. 12J
They were smiling and ogling at one another with hairs
standing on their ends due to pleasure.

18-20. Entering the bedchamber and gazing at lord
Siva, the beautiful damsels were much fascinated and they
praised their good luck. He was gorgeously dressed in fine
clothes. He was bedecked in gemset ornaments. He appeared
to be in the prime of youth. He fascinated the ladies with
charming loveliness. He was smiling gently and glancing at
everyone lovingly.

21-23. Then the sixteen celestial ladies arrived there
and saw the couple with great respect. They were Sarasvati,
Laksmi, Savitri, Jahnavi, Aditi, Saci, Lopamudra, Arundhati,

123. Tying together, so as to form a knot, the garments of the
bride and bridegroom at the commencement of the marriage ceremony is
called Granthibandhana while untying the same after the ceremony is
called Granthinirmocana.

kudrasamhita

687

Ahalya, Tulasi, Svaha, RohinI, Vasundhara, Satarupa,
Samjna and Rati.

24. There were several virgins of the gods, Nagas,
and the sages. They were charming and attractive. Who
can enumerate them ?

25. A gemset throne was offered to Siva who sat on
it joyously. The celestial ladies made these sweet witty
remarks to Him one by one.

Sarasvati said: —

26. O great lord, SatI who was more than your life
to you has now joyously rejoined you. O lover, seeing the
face of your beloved of moonlike splendour, cast off the heat
of your distress.

27. Spend your time, O lord of time, in the close
embrace of SatI. Thanks to my fervent wish, there will be
no separation at any time between you both.

Laksmi said: —

28. O lord of gods, leave off your shyness. Take SatI
to your bosom and stand close to her. Why do you feel
shy of her without whom your vital airs may go off.

Savitri said: —

29. O Siva, give the sweets" to SatI and eat them
yourself. Do not be in a flutter. Perform Acamana and
offer her betel leaves along with camphor.

Jdhnavt said: —

30. Take hold of the hand of your beloved wife
glittering with gold and stroke her hair. There is no higher
pleasure at the hands of her lover to a loving maiden than
this.

Aditi said: —

31. At the conclusion of the meal, for the purity of
the mouth, please give water. The love of this pair is very
rare to be seen.

638

Sivapurana

Sad said: —

32. Why should you be shy of your beloved for whom
you lamented and roamed here and there always keeping
her in your heart ?

Lopamudra said: —

33. O Siva, a duty shall be performed by women in
the bedchamber after the meal. Hence give Tambula
(betel leaves with spices) to Siva and go to bed.

Arundhati said: —

34. This lady was not intended at first to be given
to you. But it is after my efforts that she has been given
to you. Hence you must have a good dalliance with her.

Ahalya said: —

35. Leave off your old age. Be extremely youthful so
that Mena whose mind is fixed in her daughter may approve
of you.

Ttdasi said: —

36. Sat! was formerly abandoned by you. Kama too
was burnt. Then O lord, how is it that Vasis^ha is sent as
an emissary now.

Svaha said: —

37. Now, O great lord, be steady in the words of
women. There is a duty for women after marriage,
maturity and loftiness of demeanour.

Rokini said: —

38. O lord, expert in erotic science and technique,
fulfil the desire of Parvati. Loving that you are, try to cross
the ocean of the love of your beloved.

Vasundhara said: —

39. O lord, the knower of innermost thoughts, you
know the emotions of love-oppressed maidens. It is not only
the husband that she cherishes in her heart but she keeps
the supreme lord too there for ever.

Rudrasathhitd

Satarupa said: —

40. A hungry person will not be satisfied until he
partakes of a sweet hearty meal. O Siva do everything
whereby the woman will be satiated.

Sarhjna said: —

41. Now please send off Siva along with Parvatl to a
secluded spot after making the bed, giving them betal and
keeping the gem-bedecked lamp ready near by.

Brahma said: —

42. On hearing these words of the women, lord Siva,
who was free from aberrations and was the supreme
preceptor of great Yogins spoke to them.

Siva said: —

43. O dignified ladies, do not utter such words to me.
You are the chaste mothers of the worlds, how do you speak
so trivially in regard to your son?

Brahma said: —

44. On hearing the words of Siva, the celestial ladies
were ashamed. In their excitement they became motionless
like dolls in a picture.

45. Eating the sweets and performing Acamana lord
Siva was much delighted. In the company of His wife
He chewed the betal with camphor.

690

Sivapurdtia

CHAPTER FIFTYONE

[The resuscitation of Kama)

Brahma said: —

1 . At that time, thinking that the hour was favourable,
Rati hopefully spoke to Siva who is favourably disposed towards
depressed people.

Rati said: —

2. Why did you reduce my beloved husband to ashes
without gaining any interest when he had come near you
with ParvatI? He was my only fortunate possession very
rare to get.

3. Give me back my husband, the lord of my journey
of life who used to work lovingly with me. Remove my
distress caused by separation.

4. O lord Siva, in the great festival of your marriage,
all people are happy. I alone am unhappy without my
husband.

5. O lord, make me possessed of my husband. O
Siva, be pleased. O lord, friend of the distressed, please
make your words true.

6. Excepting you, who is there in the three worlds
including the mobile and immobile creatures who can
destroy my sorrow. Knowing this, be merciful.

7. O lord, merciful to the depressed, make me
jubilant at the jubilant celebration of your marriage that
gives pleasure to everyone.

8. There is no doubt in this, that only when my lord
is resuscitated will your sportive dalliance with your beloved
ParvatI be complete and perfect.

9. You are competent to do everything because you
are the supreme lord. O lord of all, of what avail is this
talk. Please resuscitate my husband quickly.

Brahma said: — ■

10. After saying thus she gave him the ashes of the
cupid along with the bag in which they had been contained.

Rudrasathhita

"O lord, O lord", saying thus she lamented much in front
of Siva.

11. On hearing the lamentation of Rati, Sarasvati
and other celestial ladies wept bitterly and spoke in piteous
tones.

The celestial ladies said: —

12. Obeisance to you, O lord, you are known as
favourably disposed to your devotees. You are friend of the
distressed, storehouse of mercy. Resuscitate the cupid.
Make Rati jubilant.

Brahma said: —

13. On hearing their words, lord Siva was delighted.
The lord, the ocean of mercy, glanced compassionately.

14. Thanks to the nectarine glance of the Trident-
bearing lord, Kama came out of the ashes, a comely wonder-
inspiring body with splendid dress and features.

15. On seeing her husband in the same form as before,
wielding the bow and the arrows and smiling, Rati bowed
to lord. Siva.

16. She became contented. With her husband resusci-
tated and with palms joined in reverence she eulogised the
lord, the bestower of her husband, frequently.

17. On hearing the eulogy of Kama and his wife,
Siva was delighted and he spoke with his heart melting
with pity.

Siva said: —

18. O Kama, I am delighted by your eulogy in the
company of your wife. O self-born, tell me the boon you
desire. I shall grant it.

Brahma said: —

19. On hearing these words of Siva, Kama was highly
delighted. Humbly and in faltering accents he spoke with
palms joined in reverence.

Kama said: —

20. O lord of gods, O ocean of mercy, if you, the

692 Sivapurana

lord of all, are pleased with me please be delightful \
to me.

21". O lord, please forgive my fault formerly perpe-
trated by me. Please grant me great affection towards my
people and devotion to your feet.

Brahma said: —

22. On hearing the words of Kama, lord Siva was
delighted. Giving consent, the lord of mercy laughingly
said.

Lord &iva said: —

23. O Kama, I am delighted. O intelligent one, do
not fear. Go near Visnu and wait outside.

Brahma, said: —

24. On hearing these words he bowed to, circum-
ambulated and eulogised the lord. Then he went out and
bowed to Visnu and gods.

25. Addressing Kama, the gods congratulated him
and offered him their auspicious blessings. Remembering
Siva, Visnu and others spoke to him.

The gods said: —

26. O Kama, you are blessed. Burnt by Siva you
have been blessed by Him. The lord of all has resuscitated
you by means of his sympathetic glance, the Sattvika part.

27. No man causes happiness or sorrow to another man.
Man experiences the fruits of what he does. Who can ward
off the destined protection, marriage or consummation
at the proper time ?

Brahma said: —

28. After saying thus, the gods happily honoured him.
Visnu and other gods who had realised their desire stayed
there with pleasure.

29. He too remained there, at the bidding of Siva,
with great delight. There were shouts of "Victory" "Obeis-
ance" and "well-done".

30. At the bed-chamber Siva placed Parvati on His

Rudrasarhhitd

693

left side and fed her with sweets. She too delightedly fed
him with sweets in return.

31. Siva according to the conventions of the world
performed the customary rites. Taking leave of Mena and
the mountain He came to the audience hall.

32. O sage, there was great jubilation then. Sounds
of Vedic chants rose up. People played on the four kinds of
musical instruments.

33. Coming back to His apartment, Siva saluted the
sages, Visnu and me according to the worldly convention.
He was duly saluted by the gods and others.

34. Shouts of "Victory" and "Obeisance" rose up
along with the sound of Vedic mantras which were auspicious
and which removed all obstacles.

35. Then Visnu, I(Indra), gods, sages, Siddhas, secondary
gods and the Nagas eulogised Him severally.

The gods said: —

36. O Siva, be victorious. O lord Siva, the support of
all, be victorious. O Rudra, O great lord, the supporter of
the world, be victorious.

37. O Parvatl's lord, O lord, accentuator of pleasure, O
three-eyed one, O lord of all, the lord of illusion, be
victorious, be victorious.

38. O lord, devoid of attributes, bereft of desires, O
lord beyond all causes, O omnipresent, O playful support of
all, O assumer of forms, Obeisance to you, be victorious.

39-40. O lord, bestower of good desires to your devotees,
O merciful one, O bliss-formed, assuming forms through magic
illusions, be victorious. Be victorious, O kind, O All-souled
one, friend of the distressed, storehouse of mercy, O lord of
illusion, free from aberrations, whose body is beyond the
reach of speech and mind.

Brahma said: —

41. Eulogising thus, Visnu and others joyously served
lord Siva, the husband of Parvat! duly, and with great love.

42. O Narada, Siva, the lord who had assumed body
sportively, granted boons and honour to all present there.

694

Sivapurana

43. O dear one, Visnu and others taking leave of the
great lord delightedly returned to their respective places.
They were duly honoured and their faces beamed with
pleasure.

CHAPTER FIFTYTWO

{The bridegroom's party is fed and Siva retires to bed)

Brahma said: —

1. O dear one, then the clever chief of mountains
caused suitable arrangements to be made in the courtyard for
feeding the visitors.

2. He caused the ground to be swept clean and scrub-
bed well. Different kinds of fragrant stuffs were used to make
the place attractive and pleasing.

3. Then the mountain invited all the gods and others
along with the lord for taking food, through his sons and
others.

4. O sage, on hearing the invitation of the mountain,
the lord accompanied by Visnu, the gods and others went
gladly to take His meal.

5. The mountain received the lord and all those duly
and made them sit in good seats in the inner apartment.

6. After serving sweet and well-cooked delicious food-
stuffs, he requested them to take their food with palms joined
in reverence and head bent down.

7. Then duly honoured, Visnu and other gods keeping
Sadasiva at the head took their food.

8. They sat in rows together, took their food simul-
taneously laughing ( and talking) .

9. Nandin, Bhrngi, Virabhadra and his Ganas took
their meals separately. The fortunate people took food enth-
usiastically.

10. The gods, with Indra, the guardians of the
quarters all forunate and brilliant took their food cracking
jokes and talking.

11. The sages and brahmins, Bhrgu and other sages
Sftt in separate rows and took their food with pleasure.

RudrasarhhitS

695

12. The Ganas of Candl took their meals and then
cracked jokes and talked merrily.

13. After taking meals and rinsing their mouths Visnu
and others went to their apartments for rest.

14. At the bidding of Mena, the chaste ladies requested
Siva humbly and made Him stay in the bedchamber where
great festivities were going on.

15. Seated on a gemset throne offered by Mena, Siva
surveyed the bedchamber with pleasure.

,16. It was brightly illuminated with hundreds of
gemset lamps. There were many gemset vessels. Pearls etc.
were gorgeously displayed.

17. Gemset mirrors, white chowries, pearl necklaces
and gorgeous things were richly displayed.

18. It was unequalled in its divine exquisiteness highly
pleasing and richly decorated.

19. It was evincing the powerful influence of the boon
granted by Siva. It appeared to be a replica of Siva Loka
itself.

20. It was richly rendered fragrant with various sweet
smelling substances. It was very bright. There was sandal
paste and aguru. Beds were richly strewn with flowers.

21. Many wondrous things of variegated colours and
shapes were displayed there. It had been constructed in gems
by Visvakarman* himself.

22. In some places replicas of Vaikuntha, Brahmaloka
and the cities of the guardians of the quarters were seen.

23. In a certain place the beautiful Kailasa was
represented. In another place Indra's palace was depicted.
Over all was represented the Sivaloka.

24. Seeing all these wonderful representations lord Siva
praised Himavat and was very glad.

25. In that bedchamber, in a beautiful gemset couch
lord Siva lay down with pleasure.

26. Himavat fed all his brothers and others with
pleasure and attended to the subsequent duties.

27. While the supreme lord had his sleep and the
lord of the mountains was engaged in these duties, the
night passed away giving place to dawn.

♦See Note 301 P. 401; Note 395 P. 389.

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SivapurSria

28. In the morning the enthusiastic people began to
play on different kinds of musical instruments.

29. Visnu and the other gods got up with joy, remem-
bered the lord of gods and excitedly got ready.

30. They got their vehicles ready for the departure to
Kailasa and sent Dharma to Siva.

31. At the bidding of Visnu, Dharma went near the
bed chamber. The Yogin Dharma addressed Siva, the lord
of Yogins, in a manner befitting the context.

Dharma said:—

32. Get up, get up O Siva, O lord of the Pramathas.
Please come over to the audience hall. Make the assembled
people gratified.

Brahma said: —

33. On hearing these words of Dharma lord Siva
laughed. He surveyed him with sympathetic looks and got
up from the bed.

34. He laughingly said to Dharma — "You go ahead.
1 shall come there presently. There is no doubt in this
matter.

35. Thus addressed by Siva, he returned to the audience
hall. The lord Siva too wanted to go.

36. On coming to know of it the ladies came enthusi-
astically. With their eyes fixed on the feet of Siva,, they sang
auspicious songs.

37. Siva then, in accordance with the worldly customs,
went through his morning routine. He took leave of Mena
and the mountain and went to the audience hall.

38. There was great jubilation there, O sage. Vedic
mantras were recited loudly. The people played on the four
kinds of musical instruments.

39. Siva came to His apartment and bowed to the
sages, Visnu and me in accordance with the worldly conven-
tions and was saluted by the gods and others.

40. Shouts of Victory and Obeisance rose up along
with the auspicious sound of Vedic chants. There was great
tumult.

Rudrasarhhita

697

CHAPTER FIFTYTHREE

(Description of Siva's return journey)
Brahma said: —

1. Then Visnu and other gods, the sages and ascetics
sent message to the mountain about their intention to leave
after finishing their immediate duties.

2. Then the lord of mountains finished his ceremonial
ablution and the worship of his favourite deity. Galling his
kinsmen in the city, he came to the audience hall joyously.

3. There he worshipped the lord with pleasure and
requested him to stay in his house for a few days more along
with all the people.

4. tc O Siva" he said "I am contented by your sight.
I am blessed since you came here with the gods".

5. Saying these words and many more, the lord of
mountains pleaded with palms joined in reverence to the lord
along with Visnu and other gods.

6. Then the gods and sages remembered Siva and
spoke with delight.

The gods said: —

7. O lord of the mountains, you are blessed. Your
glory is great. Even in the three worlds, there is none equal
to you in merit.

8. At your very door, lord Siva, the supreme Brahman,
the goal of the good and favourably disposed to His devotees,
has deigned to come along with us, His slaves.

9. O lord of mountains, this audience hall is very
excellent. You have honoured us in diverse ways. The
foodstuffs served to us were extraordinary. It is impossible
to describe them suitably.

10. It is no wonder that everything is perfect where
the goddess ParvatI is present. We too are blessed since we
came.

Brahma said: —

11. Thus there was mutual admiration and glorification
of an enlightened nature- There was great jubilation. The

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Sivapurana

sound of Vedic chant and shouts of victory were heard every
where.

12. There were auspicious songs. The celestial dam-
sels danced. The bards sang songs of praise. There was a
liberal exchange of monetary gifts.

13. Then the mountain took leave of the lord of gods
and went home. He made arrangements for a joyous
feast with all paraphernalia in accordance with the rules.

14. He brought the lord with all his attendants and
followers for the feast. He was very enthusiastic.

15-16. He washed the feet of Siva, Visnu and mine
with reverence. He seated all of us, including the gods, the
sages and others in the altar. The lord of mountains was
assisted by his kinsmen.

17. The mountain satiated them with various kinds
of juicy foodstuffs. All of them took food including Siva, Visnu
and me.

18. Then the ladies of the city indulged in the
customary utterance of foul abusive words laughing, jingling
and peeping at all of them.

19. O Narada, they took their food and rinsed their
mouths. Taking leave of the mountain they returned to
their apartments fully satisfied and pleased.

20. O sage, on the third day similarly they were thus
duly honoured by the lord of mountains with customary gifts.

21. On the fourth day, the rite of Caturthikarman 124 was
performed with due observance. Without this the marriage
rites would have been incomplete.

22. There was diverse jubilant festivity. Shouts of
"well-done", "Victory" etc were heard. There were exchanges
of gifts, sweet music and different kinds of dances.

23. On the fifth day the delighted gods lovingly
intimated to the mountain about their desire to go back.

24. On hearing that, the lord of mountains spoke to
the gods with palms joined in reverence "O gods, please stay
a few days more".

124. This rite is so named because it is performed on the fourth
day after the wedding. It is performed at the house of the bride's father
befor.e the marriage party leaves it. The purpose of this rite is to remove
evil influence from the person of the bride which may cause harm to the
family. For details see P,(J.§. 1,11,13.

Rudrasarhhita

699

25. Saying thus with great love he made all of us,
the lord, Visnu and others stay there for many days,
honouring us duly every day.

26. Thus many days elapsed as the gods continued to
stay there. Then the gods sent the seven sages to the lord
of the mountains.

27. They enlightened the mountain and Mena. with
what was relevant to the occasion. They told them about
Siva's principles with due praise.

28. O sage, the proposal was agreed to by the great
lord. Then Siva went to the mountain to tell him about
the intended journey, along with the gods and others.

29. When the lord of gods started on his journey
towards his mountain along with the gods, Mena. cried aloud
and told the merciful lord.

Mend said: —

30. O merciful lord, do mercifully protect Parvatl .
You are quickly pleased. Hence you will please forgive even
a thousand faults in her.

3 1 . My dear daughter is devoted to your lotus-like feet
in every birth. Even sleeping or awake she does not think
about anything else.

32. O conqueror of death, even on hearing about
your devotion she is filled with tears of pleasure and
horripilation. On hearing your censure she becomes silent
as though dead.

Brahma said: —

33. Saying this, Menaka dedicated her daughter to
Him and crying aloud became unconscious in front of them.

34. When she regained consciousness, Siva took leave
of her and the mountain and set on journey with the gods
jubilantly.

35. The gods with the lord and His Ganas started on
their journey silently. They wished the mountain well.

36-37. The lord and the gods waited in a part outside
the city of Himavat for the arrival of Parvatl there. O great
sage, thus I have narrated the journey of Siva. Now listen
to the journey ofParvati and of her departure with festivities.

700

Sivapurana

CHAPTER FIFTYFOUR

{Description of the duties of the chaste wife)

Brahma said: —

1. Then the seven sages spoke to the lord of the
mountains — (t O mountain, make arrangements for the journey
of your daughter today itself."

2. O great sage, on hearing these words and knowing
her pangs of separation, the lord of mountains was greatly
affected by his love towards her and remained silent for a
short while.

3. After some time, the lord of the mountains regained
his consciousness and said — '"Let it be so". He then sent
the message to Mena.

4. O sage, on hearing the message of the mountain,
Mena was both delighted and sorry. She immediately set
about arranging for her journey.

5. O sage, Mena, the beloved of the mountain, made
arrangements for all kinds of festivities in accordance with
the tradition of her family and the injunctions of the
Vedas-

6. She bedecked Parvati with twelve kinds of ornaments
and good silken garments of nice border. All kinds of
embellishments befitting her royal state were made.

7. Realising Mena's inclinations a chaste brahmin
lady instructed Parvati in the duties of a chaste wife.

The brahmin lady said: —

8. O Parvati, listen to my words with love that
accentuate righteousness, that increase the pleasure here
and hereafter and afford happiness to those who pay heed
to them.

9. A chaste lady sanctifies the worlds, destroys sins
and is blessed. None else is so worthy of respect.

10. O Parvati, she who serves her husband with
love and considers him her sole lord, enjoys all pleasures
here and obtains salvation hereafter along with her
husband.

11-13. The chaste ladies — Savitri, Lopamudra,

Rudrasarhhita

ArundhatI, Sandilya, Satarupa, Anasuya, Laksrni, Svadha,
SatI, Sarhjna, Sumati, Sraddha, Mena, Svaha and several
others whose names are not mentioned lest the list should be
too detailed have attained adoration from all people by their
virtue of chastity. They have been honoured by Brahma,
Visnu, Siva and great sages.

14. Lord Siva, benefactor of the depressed, worthy
of worship and the goal of the good shall be served by
you always.

15. The duty of a chaste lady is very important and
it has been mentioned in the Vedas and Smrtis. No other
duty is so admirable as this.

16. A chaste lady shall take food only after her
husband has taken it. O Siva, if he stands, the woman too
shall remain standing. *

17. When he sleeps she can also sleep. But she must
intelligently wake up before him. She shall do what is
beneficial to him. She shall love him without any sort of
deception.

18. O Siva, she shall never show herself unembellished
to him. If for any important work he is on exile she shall
never adorn herself.

19. A chaste lady shall never mention her husband's
name. If the husband scolds or rebukes her she shall not abuse
him in return. Even when beaten by him she shall remain
glad and say "I may even be killed, O lord. Be kind
to me."

20. When called by him she shall leave the work she
is engaged in and approach him immediately. With palms
joined in reverence and love she shall bow to him and say
as follows.

21. ''O lord, be pleased to say what I have been
called for." Whenever ordered by him to do any job she
shall do it gladly.

22. She shall not stand near the entrance for a long
time. She shall not go to other people's house. She shall
not take his money, even though it be a little, and give it
to others.

23. Without being told she shall arrange the necessary

ivapuraha

requisities for his daily worship. She shall wait for the
opportunity to do him a timely service.

24. Without the permission of her husband she shall
not go even on pilgrimage. She shall eschew the desire to
attend social festivities.

25. If a women wants holy water she shall drink the
same with which her husband's feet have been washed. All
holy rivers are present in that water.

26. She shall partake of the leavings of her husband's
food or whatever is given by him saying "This is thy
great grace."

27. She shall never take food without first offering
due share to the gods, the Pitrs, the guests, the servants, cows
and saintly mendicants.

28. A gentle lady of chaste rites shall always be clever
to manage the household with limited requisites. She shall
be averse to spend unnecessarily.

29. Without being permitted by her husband she shall
not observe fast and other rites. Should it be so, she will
derive no benefit. She may fall into hell in other worlds.

30. While the husband is sportively engaged or seated
comfortably she shall not worry him to get up under the
pretext of attending to some household work.

3 1 . Whether he is impotent, distressed, sick or senile,
happy or unhappy, the husband shall never be transgressed.

32. During the three days of her monthly course she
shall neither show her face nor speak to him. She shall not
speak within his hearing till she becomes pure after her
bath.

33. After her bath she shall see her husband's face
and not that of anyone else. Or after thinking on her
husband she shall then gaze at the sun.

34-35. If a chaste lady wishes for the longevity of her
husband she shall not forsake turmeric, vermilion, saffron,
collyrium, a blouse, the betel, the necklace, ornaments,
brushing and plaiting the hair bangles and earrings.

36. A chaste woman shall never associate intimately
with a washerwoman, a harlot, a female ascetic or a fallen
woman.

37. She shall not talk to any woman who disparages

kudrasarhhita

or hates her husband. She shall not stand alone anywhere
nor shall she take bath in the nude.

38. A chaste lady shall never sleep on a mortar
threshing rod, a broom, a grinding stone, a machine or on
the threshold.

39. Except at the time of sexual intercourse she shall
never show her maturity and initiative. She shall like
whatever her husband is interested in.

40. A chaste lady shall be delighted when her husband
is delighted and dejected when he is dejected. She shall
always wish for his benefit.

41. She shall be virtuous and equanimous in affluence
and adversity. She shall have fortitude and shall never go
astray.

42. Even when ghee, salt, oil or other things are ex-
hausted she shall not tell her husband openly about it lest he
should be subjected to undue strain.

43. O Goddess, the husband is superior to Brahma,
Visnu or Siva, for a chaste lady her husband is on a par
with Siva.

44. She who transgresses her husband and observes
fast and other rites wrecks the longevity of her husband and
after death goes to hell.

45. If she furiously retorts to her husband she is born as
a bitch in a village or as a vixen in a secluded place.

46. The chaste lady shall never take a higher seat
never approach a defiled person, never speak to her husband
in agitation.

47. She should avoid slanderous words, shun quarrels
and shall not speak aloud or laugh in the presence of elders.

48-49. She who delights her husband delights all the
worlds. When she sees her husband coming home she shall
hasten to serve him food and water, hand him betel and
change of garments, and serve him by massaging his feet. By
pleasing words she shall fascinate him and dispel his gloom. ^

50. What father gives is limited, what brother gives is
limited and what the son gives is also limited. A chaste lady
shall worship her husband who gives what has no limit.

51. To a wife the husband is god, preceptor, virtue,

704

>ivapurana

holy centre and sacred rite. She should cast off every-
thing and adore him alone.

52. She who forsakes her husband and secretly violates
her fidelity is bom as a she-owl of cruel nature wasting its
days in the hollow of a tree.

53. If she desires to beat her husband in retaliation, she
becomes a tiger or a wild cat. She who ogles at another
man becomes squint-eyed.

54. She who partakes of sweet dish denying the same
to her husband becomes a pig in the village or a wild goat
eating its own dung.

55. She who addresses her husband in singular becomes
dumb. She who is jealous of a co-wife becomes ill-fated in
matrimony again and again.

56. She who casts glance on another person hiding it
from her husband becomes one-eyed, twisted-faced or ugly.

57. Just as a body bereft of the soul becomes unclean
in a moment, similarly a woman without a husband is always
unclean even though she may take a neat bath.

58. The mother, the father and the husband are blessed
if there is a chaste lady in the house.

59. The three families—that of the father, that of the
mother and that of the husband — enjoy the pleasures of
heaven due to the merit of the chaste woman.

60. Disloyal women cause the downfall of the three
families, that of the father, mother and husband and become
distressed here and hereafter.

61. Wherever the chaste lady sets her foot, the sin is
dispelled therefrom and the place is sanctified.

62. Even the sun, moon and wind touch the chaste
woman to sanctify themselves and not otherwise.

63. Waters desire the touch of the chaste lady think-
ing — "Now our sluggishness is gone. Now we are able to
purify others".

64. Wife is the root of the household, and of its hap-
piness; she is the source of the fruit of virtue and for the
flourishing of the family.

65. In every house there are women proud of their
exquisite beauty and comely appearance. But it is only
due to the devotion of Siva that a chaste lady is obtained.

Rudrasarhhitd

705

66. The present and the next world can be won through
her. A wifeless man is not authorized to perform the rites of
gods, Pitrs guests and sacrifices.

67. He alone is the true householder in whose house
there is a chaste lady. The others are devoured by an ogress
or old age.

68. Just . as the body i s purified by a plunge in the
Ganga, so everything is sanctified on seeing a chaste woman.

69. A chaste lady is not different from Ganga. She
and her husband are like Parvati and Siva. Hence a sensible
man shall worship them.

70. The husband is the high tone and the wife is the
quarter tone. The husband is austerity and the woman is
forbearance. The husband is the fruit and the wife is a
sacred rite. O Parvati, such a pair is blessed.

71. O daughter of the lord of mountains, thus the
duty of a chaste wife is described to you. Now, listen to
their classifications with attention and love.

72. O gentle lady, the chaste ladies can be divided in-
to four classes. Even when they are remembered they dispel
sins. The divisions comprise of the superior etc.

73. They are superior, middling, inferior and very in-
ferior. I shall explain their characteristics. Listen with
attention.

74. O gentle lady, she whose mind is not aware of
any one else and who is conscious of her husband even in her
dreams is the noblest of all.

75. O daughter of the mountain, she who sees another
man as her father, brother or son with a clean conscience is
the middling among chaste ladies.

76. O Parvati, she who ponders over her duty mentally
and desists from going astray is inferior among the chaste.
Of course she is pure in conduct.

77. She who remains chaste for fear of her husband
or the family is very inferior among the chaste ladies, so say
the ancient poets.

78. O Parvati, these four types of chaste ladies dispel
sins. They sanctify all the worlds. They are delighted here
and hereafter.

79. A brahmin who died due to the curse of Varaha

W>6 divapurdna

(Boar), was at the request of the three deities, resuscitated
by Atri's wife (Anasuya), thanks to the power of chastity.

80. O Siva, O daughter of the mountain, knowing this
well, you shall render service to your husband every day with
pleasure as it bestows all desires.

81. You are the Goddess and the mother of the uni-
verse. Siva Himself is your husband. By remembering you
women become chaste.

82. O Parvati, O gentle lady, what avails mentioning
all this to you. Still I mention this just to follow the worldly
convention.

Brahma said- —

83. Saying this, the brahmin lady stopped and bowed
to her. Parvati, the beloved of Siva, derived great pleasure.

CHAPTER FIFTYFIVE

{Siva returns to Kailclsa)

Brahma said: —

1. Thus instructing the goddess in the rites of a chaste
lady, the brahmin lady told Mena while taking leave of her
"Make arrangements for her journey".

2. Saying "So be it" she became exasperated by her
affection. Controlling herself a little she called Parvati to
her when her agitation due to imminent separation became
all the more unbearable.

3. Embracing her she cried loudly and frequently.
Parvati too cried uttering piteous words.

4. The beloved of the mountain as well as her daughter
became unconscious due to grief. The wives of the gods too
fainted on hearing Parvati cry.

5. AH the ladies cried. Everything became senseless.
Who else, even the great lord, the leader of Yogins, cried at
the time of departure.

6. In the meantime, Himavat came hurriedly along
with his sons, ministers and brahmins.

kudrasathhita

161

7. Holding his dear daughter to his bosom and saying
"Where are you going ?" with frequent vague vacant
glances, he cried due to his fascination.

8. Then the chief priest in the company of other
brahmins enlightened everyone. The wise priest by his spiri-
tual discourse was able to convince them easily.

9. With great devotion Parvati bowed to her parents
and the preceptor. Following the worldly convention she cried
aloud frequently.

10. When Parvati cried the ladies cried too, particularly
the mother Mena, sisters and brothers.

1 1 . Her mother, sister, brothers, father and the other la-
dies who were affectionately attached to her cried frequently.

12. Then the brahmins respectfully intimated to them the
auspicious hour for the starting of the journey and consoled
them.

13. Then Himavat and Mena composed themselves and
caused the palanquin to be brought for Parvati to get in.

14. The brahmin ladies helped her to get into the
palanquin. They gave their blessings. Her parents and the
brahmins too offered their blessings.

15. Mena and the lord of mountains gave her a royal
send-off with various auspicious rare presents not acces-
sible to common people.

16. O sage, Parvati started after bowing to the prece-
ptors, elders, father, mother, the brahmins, the chief priest,
sisters and the other women.

1 7. Himavat, the sensible affectionate father with his sons
accompanied her as far as the place where the lord was wait-
ing joyously along with the gods.

18. Everyone was jubilant and jolly with love. They
bowed to the lord with devotion. Praising Him they retur-
ned to Kailasa.

19. Then Siva told Parvati— "I am reminding you
although you know the previous birth. If you remember,
speak out. In my divine sport you are always my beloved."

Brahma said: —

20. On hearing the words of Siva, Sat) Parvati the
beloved of Siva replied smiling.

703

'ivapurdna

Parvati said: —

21. O dear lord, I remember everything as well as the
fact that you became a silent ascetic. Obeisance to you.
Please do everything necessary now befitting the occasion.

Brahma said : —

22. On hearing her words as pleasing as the steady flow
of nectar, Siva rejoiced much, eagerly devoted to the way of
the world.

23. Getting every requisite thing ready, he fed the gods
including Visnu and others with various pleasant things.

24. He fed all the others who had attended His
marriage with juicy cooked food of various sorts.

25. After taking food the gods and the Ganas, with
their womenfolk fully bedecked in gems and j ewels bowed
to the moon-crested lord.

26. After eulogising Him with pleasing words and
circumambulating Him with joy they praised the marriage
celebration and returned to their abodes.

27. O sage, Siva Himself bowed to me and to Visnu
following the worldly convention as Visnu had bowed to
Kasyapa.

28. Considering Him the supreme Brahman I eulogised '
him in the excellent manner after embracing him and
offering him my benediction.

29. Visnu and I with palms joined in reverence,
took leave of them and praising the marriage of Siva and
Parvati went back to Visnu' s abode.

30. On the mountain, Siva stayed with Parvati and
continued his divine sports with joy. The Ganas too were
happy and they worshipped the married couple.

31. O dear, I have thus narrated the auspicious story
of the marriage of Siva, that dispels sorrow, generates
delight and increases wealth and longevity.

32. He who hears this story with pure mind fixed on
them or narrates the same, shall attain Sivaloka.

33. This narrative is said to be wondrous and the
cause of everything auspicious. It quells all hindrances and
ailments.

34. It is conducive to glory and the attainment of

Radrasarhhitd

709

heaven. It bestows longevity, sons and grandsons, all
cherished desires, worldly pleasures and salvation too.

35. It wards off premature death. It is auspicious and
it causes peace. It makes bad dreams subside. It is an
instrument for the acquisition of keen intellect.

36. It shall be read on all occasions of Siva's festivals
by the people who desire auspicious results. It gives satis-
faction to Siva.

37. At the installation of the idols of the deities this
shall be particularly read. At the beginning of all auspicious
rites it shall be read with pleasure.

38. With purity in mind and body it shall be heard.
All affairs become fruitful thereby. This is true, really true.

RUDR A-S AMH1T A

SECTION IV

Kumara Khanda

CHAPTER ONE

( The dalliance of Siva)

1. I salute Siva who is satisfied with salutation, who
loves great devotion, who bestows affection, who makes
others too perfect and complete and who is the abode of all
fortune and achievements. I salute Siva who is eulogised
by Visnu and Brahma, who urged by His sympathy assumes
visible forms, who bestows truth, who loves truth, whose
assets are the threefold truths and who is identical with
truth.

Narada said :—

2. O Brahma, after marrying ParvatI and returning to
His mountain what did Siva the benefactor of the worlds do ?
Please narrate it to me.

3. Who was the son born to Siva, the great soul, for
which purpose the lord, though He rests and revels in Him-
self, married ParvatI ?

4. O Brahma, the benefactor of the gods, how was
Taraka 126 slain ? Please have pity on me and narrate all
this in full.

Suta said: —

5. On hearing these words of Narada, Prajapati was
highly delighted and he replied after thinking on Siva.

125. Taraka, the son of Vaj>anga, was a Daitya whose austerities
made him formidable to the gods. The present section narrates the birth of
Kumara, known as Skanda, Guha, karltikeya etc. who slew the denion
Taraka;.

Rudrasathhua

711

Brahma said: —

6. O Narada, listen to the tale of Siva, the moon-
crested lord. I shall narrate the story of Guha's 1 * 6 birth and
the slaying of the demon Taraka.

7. Let it be heard. I shall tell you the story that
destroys all sins, on hearing which a man is freed from all
sins.

8. This narrative is sinless. It is a wonderful secret.
It dispels the distress caused by sin and wards off all
obstacles.

9. It bestows everything auspicious. It is the essence
of the Vedas and is pleasing to the ears. It is conducive to
happiness. It is the cause of liberation and cuts off the
roots of all actions.

10. Returning to Kailasa after marrying ParvatI, Siva
attained added lustre. He thought over the task of the gods
and the pain of the people involved in the fulfilment of
that task.

1 1 . When Siva returned to Kailasa, the joyful Ganas
made all arrangements for His happiness.

12. When Siva returned to Kailasa, there was great
jubilation there. The gods returned to their realms with
their minds full of joy.

13. Then taking Parvati, the daughter of the mountain,
with Him, Siva, the great Lord, went to a delightful
brilliant isolated place.

14-15. Making a wonderful bed conducive to good
sexual pleasure, rendered smooth and fragrant with flowers
and sandal paste and auspiciously supplemented with objects
of enjoyment, lord 'Siva' the bestower of honour, indulged in
dalliance with ParvatI for a thousand years v of god. 127

16. In' that divine sport at the mere contact with

126. Guha, better known as Karttikeya was the son of Siva. Born in
a thicket in a forest, out of the semen of Siva, without the intervention
of Parvati he was fostered by the Pleiades (Krttikas) whence he received
the title Kattikeya. When grown into youth, he became the Comman-
der-in-Chief (senapati) of the army of Siva, fought and slew the Daitya
Taraka, As he killed (mara) the evil (ku) Asura, he became known as
kumara.

127. For different calculations of the time-durations see Sk. P. Ch,
142-145.

712

Sivapurana

ParvatI, Siva lapsed in unconsciousness. She too lapsed into
unconsciousness due to the contact with Siva. She neither
knew the day nor the night.

17. When Siva following the worldly way began his
enjoyment of pleasures, O sinless one, a great length of
time passed by as though it was a mere moment in their
awareness.

18. Then, O dear, Indra and the gods gathered together
on the mountain Meru and began their mutual discussion.

The gods said : —

19. It is for the fulfilment of our task that Lord Siva,
the leader of Yogins, free from aberrations, the unsullied,
revelling and resting in his own Self, has married.

20. No son is born to Him. We do not know the reason.
How is it that the lord of gods is delaying the action ?

Brahma said: —

21. In the meantime, from Narada who has the divine
vision the gods came to know of the extent of the enjoy-
ment of the couple engaged in dalliance.

22. Realising that their enjoyment had extended over
a long time, the gods became worried. Making me Brahma
as their leader they approached Visnu Narayana 128 .

23. After bowing to him I narrated to him all the details
we desired to convey. The gods stood steady and silent like
dolls painted in a picture.

24. For a thousand years according to the calculation
of the gods, Siva the Yogin has been engaged in sexual
dalliance. He does not desist from it.

Lord Visnu said: —

25. O creator of the universe, there is nothing to worry
about. Everything will be well. O lord of gods, seek refuge
in the great lord Siva.

26. O lord of subjects, the people who dedicate their

138. The epithet 'Narayana' is applied to Visnu because the waters
(uara) "were his first place of motion (ayana) . In Hindu Mythology
Visnu is represented as lying on the serpent couch jn the midst of ocear).

Rudrasarfihitd

713

minds to and seek refuge in Him joyously and devoutly have
nothing to fear from any quarter.

27. The interruption to amorous dalliance will take
place at the proper time, not now, O Brahma. Any task
carried out at the proper time shall be crowned with success,
not otherwise.

28. If the enjoyment is desired by Siva who can check
it? When another thousand years are completed He will
desist from it, out of his own will.

29. If any one separates the copulated pair by a
tricky expedient he will have the pangs of separation from
his wife and sons in every birth.

30. He will fall from perfect wisdom. His glory will
be destroyed. He will lose his fortune. That sinner after
his death will suffer the tortures of the hell Kalasiitra 129 for a
hundred thousand years.

31. The sage Durvasas 180 separated Indra in copulation
with Rambha 131 and the sage got separation from his wife as
a result thereof-

32. He took another woman as his wife and thus put
an end to the pangs of separation lasting for a thousand
years of the gods.

33. Brhaspati hindered Kama in copulation with
Ghrtaci 132 but within six months the moon abducted his wife.

34. He then propitiated Siva, fought a battle over
Tara, enjoyed her even as she was pregnant and tried to
dispel his pangs of separation.

35. The sage Gautama forced the moon in the company
of RohinI to desist from sexual dalliance and he suffered the
pangs of separation from his wife.

36-37. Hariscandra expelled a ploughman in copulation
with a Sudra woman, to wander in a lonely forest. Listen

129- Kalasutra is one of Several hells wherein the wicked are
tortured. For details see Visnu Purana II. 214.

130. Durvasas, the son of Atri and Anasuya was a sage of irascible .
temper.

131. Rambha, a celestial damsel is represented as the type of
female beauty. She was one of the rarities produced at the churning of
the ocean.

13a. Ghrtaci, a celestial damsel, was known for her rare beauty and
charms.

714

Sivapurana

to the effect thereof. He lost his wife, son and kingdom. He
was tarmented by Visvamitra. It was only after propitiating
Siva that he could get released from that sin.

38. Though Ajamila, 133 a noble brahmin, was in copula-
tion with a Sudra woman, gods did not interfere due to this
fear.

39. Everything can be achieved through the discharge
of the semen. O Brahma, the process of discharge is very
effective. The discharge that is fruitful none can withhold.

40-41. O gods, Siva's act of enjoyment will extend to
a thousand years of celestial calculation. After that period is
over, you can go there and do such things as will necessitate
the fall of the semen on the ground. The son of the lord
named Skanda will be born of that.

42. O Brahma, return to your abode along with the
gods. Let Siva carry on enjoyment in the isolated place in
the company of Parvati.

BrahmS said : —

43. After saying this, the lord of Laksmi immediately
returned to his harem. O great sage, the gods too returned
to their abodes along with me.

44. On account of the dalliance of Siva and Parvati,
the earth quaked with the weight along with Sesa (the ser-
pent) and Kacchapa 134 (the tortoise).

45. By the weight of Kacchapa, the cosmic air, the
support of everything, was stunned and the three worlds be-
came terrified and agitated.

46. Then the gods along with me sought refuge in Visnu
and in our depression intimated to him the news.

The gods said :—

47. O Visnu, the lord of the gods, O lord and pro-
tector of all, save us who have sought refuge in you and
whose minds are acutely terrified.

48. The vital air of the three worlds is stunned. We
do not know wherefore. The three worlds including the

133- Ajamila was a Brahmana of Kanauj who married a Sudra
woman and had children of whom he was very fond.

134- Sesa (the serpent chief) and Kacchapa (the tortoise) are said
to support the earth in turns on the hoods and the back respectively.

Rudrasamhita

715

mobile and immobile as well as the gods and the sages are
excited.

Brahma said: —

49. After saying this, O great sage, all the depressed
gods, stood silent along with me in front of Visnu with great
misery.

50. On hearing those words, Visnu took us all imme-
diately to the mountain Kailasa, the favourite haunt of Siva.

51. After going there in the company of the gods and
me, the favourite deity of the gods went to the excellent re-
sort of Siva with a desire to see Siva.

52. Unable to see Him there, Visnu and the gods
became surprised. With humility he asked the Ganas of
Siva who were there.

Visnu said: —

53. O Ganas of Siva, where has Siva, the lord of all
gone ? Sympathetically intimate this to us who are
depressed.

Brahma said:—

54. On hearing these words of Visnu in the company
of the gods, the Ganas of Siva lovingly replied to Visnu.

The Gapas of Siva said: —

55. O Visnu, please listen along with Brahma and the
gods, we shall tell you the truth and the details out of love
for Siva.

56. Siva, the lord of all, had gone into the apartment
of ParvatI after stationing us here with love. He is an
expert in indulging in divine sports.

57. O lord of Laksmi, many years have gone by. We
do not know what Siva, the great lord, is doing within her
apartment.

Brahma said: —

58. On hearing their words, O excellent sage, Visnu,
the gods and I were perplexed and went to the doorway of
Siva's apartment.

716

Sivapurana

59. After going there along with me and the gods,
Visnu, the favourite deity of the gods, spoke in dejection but
with joy in the heart.

60. O excellent sage, standing there, along with me
and the gods, he eulogised Siva, the lord of all the worlds with
great pleasure.

Visnu said; —

61. O great lord, what are you doing there inside?
Save us who are harassed by Taraka and who have sought
refuge in you.

62. O great sage, praising and pleading like this to
Siva, Visnu wept bitterly along with the gods harassed by
Taraka.

63. O great sage, the tumultuous cry of the heaven-
dwellers distressed by the demon got mingled with the sound
of eulogy to Siva.

CHAPTER TWO

( The birth of Siva's son)

Brahma said: —

1. On hearing that, the great lord, an expert in Yogic
theory, though free from lust, did not emit the semen, fearing
to offend Parvatl.

2. He came to the door, near the gods distressed by
the demon. Siva is the benefactor favourably disposed to
His devotees.

3. On seeing lord Siva, favourably disposed to His
devotees, the gods including me and Visnu became extremely
happy.

4. O sage, bowing down with stooping sihoulders the
gods along with me and Visnu eulogised Siva with great
pleasure.

The gods said:—

5. "O great God, O lord of gods, O ocean of mercy,

Rudrasaihhita

111

O Siva, you are the immanent soul of all. You know every-
thing.

6. O lord, carry out the task of the gods. O great lord,
save the gods. Slay Taraka and other demons and take pity
on us."

7. On hearing these words of the gods, lord Siva agit-
ated in soul and dispirited in the mind, replied.

Siva said: —

8. "O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, you are the goal of
everybody's mind. What should happen necessarily must
happen. There is none to stop it.

9-11. What has happened has already happened. Now
O gods, listen to what is relevant to the context. Let him
who will, take up this discharged semen". After saying this
He let it fall on the ground. Urged by the gods Agni became
a dove and swallowed it with his beak. O sage, in the
meantime Parvati came there.

12. When Siva took a long time to return, she hastened
there and saw the gods. On coming to know of the incident
she became very furious.

13. She told Visnu and the gods as follows.

The goddess said ; —

14. Hi Hi, O gods, you are wicked and particularly
selfish and for that purpose you give pain to others.

15. O gods, for the sake of realising your self-interests
you all propitiated the lord and spoilt my dalliance. I have
become a barren woman therefore.

16. O gods, after offending me none can be happy.
Hence O wicked heaven-dwellers, you will remain unhappy.

Brahma said : —

17. After saying these words Parvati, the daughter of
the king of mountains, blazing with fury cursed Visnu and all
other gods.

Parvati said : —

18. From now onwards let the wives of the gods be
utterly barren and let the gods who offended me be unhappy.

§ivapura$a

Brahma, said :—

19. Cursing Visnu and other gods, Parvati furiously**
told Agni who had swallowed Siva's semen.

Parvati said : —

20. O Agni, be the devour er of everything and let your
soul be afflicted. You are a fool. You do not know Siva's
fundamental principles. You have come forward to carry out
the task of the gods.

21. It is neither proper nor beneficent to you to have
eaten up Siva's semen. You are a rogue, a wretched vile, pay-
ing heed to the wicked counsel of the wicked.

Brahma said :

22. After cursing the fire thus, O sage, Parvati, the
daughter of the mountain, immediately returned to her
apartment along with Siva, dissatisfied that she was.

23. O great sage, after returning she persistently pleaded
with Siva and bore a son named GaneSa.

24. O sage, the details of that story I shall narrate to
you later on. Now listen to the story of the birth of Guha
which I am going to narrate.

25. The gods are wont to partake of the offerings of
food etc. consigned to the fire in accordance with the Vedic
text. Hence the gods became pregnant.

26. Unable to endure the force of the semen they be-
came afflicted. Visnu and other gods had already lost their
sense at the curse of Parvati.

2 7. Then Visnu and other gods were overwhelmed and
scorched. In this state they sought refuge in Siva.

28. After reaching the threshold of Siva's apartment, the
gods humbly eulogised Parvati and Siva with pleasure and
with palms joined in reverence.

The gods said : —

29. O lord of gods, O great lord, consort of Parvati,
what has happened now ? Your magical power is incapable of
being transgressed.

30. We have become pregnant and also scorched by

Rudrasarhhita

your semen. O Siva, take pity on us. Remove our miserable
plight.

Brahma said: —

31. O sage, on hearing the eulogy of the gods, Siva, the
lord of Parvati came immediately to the threshold where the
gods stood waiting.

32. The gods including Visnu bowed humbly with
great devotion and eulogised Siva who is favourably disposed
to His devotees, who came near the entrance.

The gods said : —

33. O Siva, O great lord, we bow to you particularly,
save us seeking refuge in you on being scorched by your
semen.

34. O Siva, please remove our misery. We will cer-
tainly die otherwise. Save you, none can remove the misery
of the gods.

Brahma said : —

35. On hearing these piteous words, the lord of the gods
laughingly replied to the gods with his usual sympathy*towards
his devotees.

Siva said : —

36. O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, all of you listen to
my words with attention. You will be happy. Be careful.

37. At my behest you shall vomit this semen virile of
mine. You will be happy thereby.

Brahma said : —

38. Accepting this command with bent head Visnu and
the other gods immediately vomitted it out after duly
remembering Siva the imperishable.

39. The semen of Siva lustrous and golden in colour
falling on the ground seemed to touch the heaven as it was
as huge as a mountain.

40. Visnu and other gods became relieved and they
eulogised the great lord Siva who is favourably disposed to
His devotees.

720

41. O great sage, only Agni did not become happy.
Siva, the great lord, gave a separate hint to him.

42. Then the distressed fire, O sage, eulogised Siva with
palms joined in reverence and piteously spoke these words.

Agni said: —

43-44. O lord of gods, I am a stupid and deluded
servant of yours. Forgive me my fault. Please remove my
burning sensation. O lord, you are the benefactor and
sympathetic to the distressed.

Brahma said: —

45. On hearing the words of Agni, Siva the great lord
spoke delightedly to Agni. He is favourably disposed to
His devotees,

Siva said: —

46. An improper action has been committed by you
in swallowing my semen. Hence your sin has become formi-
dable at my bidding and the burning sensation has not been
cured.

47. Now that you have sought refuge in me you are
sure to be happy. I am pleased with you. All your misery
will be dissolved.

48. Deposit carefully that semen in the womb of some
good woman. You will become happy and particularly relieved
of the burning sensation.

Brahma said: —

49. On hearing these words of Siva, Agni replied to
Siva, the benefactor of the devotees with pleasure and bow-
ing down with palms joined in reverence.

50. "O lord Siva, this splendour of yours is inaccessible
and unbearable. There is no woman in the three worlds
except Parvati to hold it in her womb."

51. O excellent sage, when fire said like this, you,
urged by Siva, said thus in order to help Agni.

JYarada said: —

52. "O Agni, listen to my words that will dispel your

kudrasarhkita

721

r burning sensation. It will yield great pleasure and ward off

your pains.

53. O Agni, taking recourse to the following expedient
you will be relieved of the burning sensation and be happy. O
dear, this has been explained by me well at the will of Siva.

54. O Agni, you shall deposit this semen of Siva in the
bodies of the ladies who take their morning baths in the
month of Magha."

Brahma said : —

55. O sage, meanwhile the wives of the seven celes-
tial sages came there desirous of taking their early morning
bath in the month of Magha with other observances of rites.

56. After the bath, six of them were distressed by the
dullness and were desirous of going near the flame of fire.

57. ArundhatI of good conduct and perfect knowledge
saw them deluded and dissuaded them at the behest of Siva.

58. O sage, the six ladies stubbornly insisted on going
there to ward off their dullness because they were deluded by
Siva's magical art.

59. Immediately the particles of the semen entered
their bodies through the pores of hairs, O sage. The fire was
relieved of their burning sensation.

60. Vanishing immediately from the scene, Agni in
the form of a flame, went back happily to his region, mental-
ly remembering you and Siva.

61. O saintly one, the women became pregnant and
were distressed by the burning sensation. They went home.
O dear, ArundhatI was displeased with fire.

62. O dear, the husbands on seeing the plight of their
wives became furious. They consulted one another and dis-
carded them.

63. O dear, on seeing their own state the six ladies
felt very miserable and distressed.

64. The wives of the sages cast off their semen in the
form of a foetus at the top of Himavat. They felt then
relieved of their burning sensation.

65. Unable to bear that semen of Siva and trembling
much, Himavat became scorched by it and hurled it in the
Ganga.

722

Sivapurana

66. O great sage, the intolerable semen of lord Siva
was deposited by Ganga, in the forest of Sara grass by means
of its waves.

67. The semen that fell was turned in a handsome
good-featured boy, full of glory and splendour. He increased
everyone's pleasure.

68. O great sage, on the sixth day of the bright half
of the lunar month of Margasirsa, the son of Siva was born
in the world.

69. At that time, O Brahmin, on their mountain,
Parvati the daughter of Himavat and Siva became very happy.

70. Out of joy, milk exuded from the breasts of
Parvati. On reaching the spot everyone felt very happy.

71. O dear, there was auspiciousness in the three worlds,
pleasing to the good. There occurred obstacles to the wicked
and particularly to the demons.

72. O Narada, there was a mysterious sound of
Dundubhi drum in the sky. Showers of flowers fell on the
boy.

73. O excellent sage, there was great delight to Visnu
and the gods. There was great jubilation everywhere.

CHAPTER THREE

(The boyhood sports of Karttikeya)

Narada said : —

1. O lord of subjects, O Brahmin, O creator, what
happened thereafter ? Please tell me the same.

Brahma said :—

2. O dear, then the powerful sage Visvamitra, urged by
Brahma, came there casually and was delighted.

3. On seeing the unearthly splendour of that brilliant
boy, he became very delighted. He bowed to the boy.

4. With a delighted mind he eulogised him with the
words prompted by Brahma. Visvamitra realised his power.

5. The boy too was delighted and became the source of

Rudrasarhhitd 723

great enjoyment. Laughingly he spoke to Visvamitra. It was
very surprising.

Siva's son said : —

6. "O great one of perfect wisdom, it is due to the will
of Siva that you have come here by chance. O dear, per-
form my purificatory rites in accordance with Vedic injunc-
tions.

7. From now onwards you remain my priest con-
ferring your love on me. It is certain that you will become
the object of worship of all."

Brahma said: —

8. On hearing his words, Gadhi's son 136 (Vilvamitra )
was highly delighted and surprised. He spoke to him in a
tone, by no means highly accented.

Viivamitra said: —

9. Listen, O dear, I am not a brahmin. I am a Ksatriya,
son of Gadhi, famous as Visvamitra and a servant of brah-
mins.

10. O excellent boy, I have thus narrated my life to
you. Who are you ? Now mention everything about your
life to me who am surprised.

Brahma said : —

11. On hearing his words the boy told him about his
life. The divine boy, the cause of great enjoyment and pro-
tection, said to Gadhi's son with great pleasure.

Siva's son said; —

12. O Visvamitra, thanks to my favour, you now
become a brahminical sage. Vasistha and others will for ever
regard you with respect.

13. Hence, at my behest you shall perform my puri-
ficatory rites. Keep this as a great secret. You shall not
mention it anywhere.

135. Visvamitra, the son of Gadhi or Gathjn, was a born Kjatriya
who by intense austerities attained Brahmanahood. SP. attributes this
change to the favour of Kumara who raised him to Brahmanahood in
order to enable him to perform his purificatory rites.

724

'ivapurana

Brahma snid : —

14. O celestial sage, in the manner laid down in the
Vedas he performed the purificatory rites for the son of Siva.

15. Siva's son, the cause of great enjoyment and pro-
tection, was glad and conferred divine wisdom on the sage.

16. The son of Agni made V'isvamitra his priest.
Form that time onwards he became a great brahmin and an
expert in divine sports of various sorts.

17. O sage, the very first sport that he performed thus
has been narrated to you by me. O dear, listen to another
sport of his with wonder. I shall narrate it to you.

18-19. At that time he was known as white in colour.
Agni went there and seeing his son who was divine and very
holy called him "O dear son." Agni embraced and kissed him
too. He gave him a miraculous weapon, spear.

20 Guha took the spear and ascended the peak. He
hit the peak with his spear and the peak fell down.

21. Ten thousand billions of heroic demons came there
to attack him but were killed on being hit with the spear.

22. There was great hue and cry. The Earth, the
mountains and the three worlds quaked. Indra the lord of
gods came there.

23. With his thunderbolt he hit on his right side. A
person named "Sakha" 136 of great strength came out of that
side.

24. Sakra struck him again with his thunderbolt on
his left side. Another strong person named Vi^akha came
out of that side.

25. Then Indra struck his heart with his thunderbolt.
Another person very powerful like him named Naigama
came out.

136, Siikha, Visakha and Naigama are the three brothers of
Kumara. Accoiding to thty are his very self. SP. RS. iv. 23-25.

V.S. Agrawal gives quite a different interpretation. Accoiding to
him Kumara is the symbol of the life-principle manifesting in every in-
dividual. Krttikas are the six yogic cakras located in the human body in
the golden reed. Kumara who is born in this six- jointed single reed is
called (i) Karttikeya and (ii) Sakha. The life-principle then branches
out in the form of five gross elements and the mind which together are
called (iii) Visakha. As_ the popular God of the merchant community
Kumara is called (iv) Naigama or Naigameya.

■1

Rudrasarhhita

725

26. Then the four of great heroic strength including
Skanda rushed to attack Indra. I offered my protection to
Indra.

27. Afraid of Guha, Indra with all the gods went
away to his region agitatedly. O sage, he did not know his
secret.

28. That boy remained there itself as fearless as before.
O dear, he was highly pleased and continued his divine
sports of various sorts.

29. Meanwhile the six ladies named Krttikas came
there for bath and they saw the lordly boy.

30. All of them desired to take and fondle him O sage,
as a result of their simultaneous desire for taking and fondl-
ing the boy, a dispute arose.

31. In order to quell their mutual dispute, the boy
assumed six faces and drank milk off their breasts. O sage,
they were all satisfied.

32-33. Realising his desire, the Krttikas, O sage, took him
to their region joyously. Feeding him with their breast milk
they nursed and nurtured Siva's son who was more refulgent
than the sun.

34. They never let him go out of their sight. He
became the object of their love, dearer to them than their
own lives. Verily he who nurses and nurtures the child has
the right of possession over the son. 13 '

35. With great love they gave him the rarest garments
and excellent ornaments in the three worlds.

36. Feeding him specially on the choicest delicacies
day by day they brought up the boy prodigy.

37. O dear, once that son of the Krttikas went to the
celestial assembly and showed wonderful feats.

38. The boy of wonderful miracles showed his rare
splendour to the gods including Visnu.

39-40. On seeing him, the gods and sages including
Visnu became surprised and asked the boy "Pray, who are
you ?" On hearing it he did not say anything in reply. He
returned to his abode and remained concealed as before.

137. Verses 34-36 of this chapter are the same as verses 31-32 of the
following chapter.

726

mrana

CHAPTER FOUR

{Search for Karttikeya and his conversation with Nandin)
Narada said : —

1. O lord of people, O Brahma, O lord of gods, what
happened after that ? Narrate it to me kindly besides the
description of Siva's sports.

Brahma said : —

2. O sage, after the son of &iva had been taken over
by the Krttikas some time elapsed but the daughter of Hima-
vat had no knowledge of the same.

3. Meanwhile Parvati beaming with her lotus like face
told her husband Siva } the lord of the gods.

Parvati said : —

4. O lord of the gods, listen to my auspicious words.
O lord, you have been attained by me, thanks to my previous
merits.

5. Although you are the most excellent among the
Yogins, O lord, you became desirous of dalliance. But my
dalliance with you was interrupted in the middle by the
gods.

6. O lord, your semen fell on the ground and not
in my womb. Where did it go ? Among the gods by whom
could it have been concealed?

7. O lord, infallible is your semen, how can it be
fruitless ? Or has it developed into a child somewhere ?

BrahmS said: —

8. O great sage, on hearing the words of Parvati;, the
lord of the universe called the gods and the sages and
laughingly said to them.

Lord Siva said : —

9. O gods, listen to my words. Has Parvati's state-
ment been heard by you ? Where has my unfailing semen
gone ? By whom has it been concealed ?

10. If he, out of fear, falls at my feet quickly he
may not be punished. If a king, competent enough, does

Rudrasamhita 727

not rule firmly he will be harrassed by the subjects. He
cannot be a protector.

Brahma, said : —

11. On hearing the words of Siva and after consulting
one another they replied one by one. They were so afraid
of the great lord.

Visnu said: —

12. Let those who have concealed your semen incur
the sins of those who utter lies, of those who outrage the
modesty of preceptor's wife, and of those who are engaged
in insulting the preceptor always.

Brahma said: —

13. Let him who has concealed your semen anywhere
in the holy centres of Bharata be debarred from the privilege
of serving or worshipping you.

The guardians of the quarters said: —

14. Let him who has concealed your semen suffer
continuously from the pang as a result of that sinful
action. 138

The gods said: —

15. Let him who has concealed your semen incur the
sin of that stupid person who does not fulfil the promise he
himself has made.

The wives of the gods said: —

16. Let her who has concealed your semen be deprived
of mother and kinsmen and incur the sin of those base
women who hate their husband and carry on an affair with
another man.

BrahmS said : —

17. On hearing the words of the gods, Siva the lord
of the gods threatened Dharma and others the cosmic wit-
nesses of all activities.

138. The original of this translation is defective.

728

£ivapurana

Lord Siva said : —

18. The infallible semen of mine, has not been con-
cealed by the gods. By whom could it then have been
concealed ?

19. All of you are the witnesses of all actions always.
Has it been concealed by you ? Have you come to know of
it ? Please narrate.

20. On hearing the words of Siva they nervously
looked at one another and spoke before the lord one
by one.

Brahma, said: —

21. The infallible semen of Siva, infuriated at the
intervention in the course of his sexual dalliance, fell on the
ground. This was observed by me.

The Earth said : —

22. I was unable to bear the terrible semen. Hence
I dropped it into the fire. O lord, please forgive me.

The fire said : —

23. O Siva, assuming the form of a dove I gulped
the semen but could not bear the terrible thing. Hence
I immediately dropped it on the mountain Kailasa.

The mountain said: —

24. O lord of the worlds, I too was unable to bear
the terrible thing, O lord, I dropped it in the Ganga.

Ganga said: —

25. O lord of the worlds, I too was unable to bear
your terrible semen. O lord, completely exhausted, I dropped
it in the grove of Sara plants.

Vayu said: —

26. O Siva, the semen that fell among the Sara plants
immediately became a very beautiful boy on the holy banks
of the celestial river.

The sun said: —

27. On seeing the crying boy, O lord, I went to the

Rudrasarhhitd 729

western mountain, urged by the revolving wheel of time,
being unable to stay there at night.

The moon said: —

28. Taking the crying boy, the Krttikas returned to
their abode. O Siva, they went to Badarika hermitage.

The waters said: —

29. O lord, taking the crying child with them and
feeding him with their own breast milk they nurtured your
son, as refulgent as the sun.

The dusk said: — ■

30. Now, he is the nursling son of the Krttikas in the
forest. In their eagerness they named him Karttikeya
lovingly.

The night said: —

31. They never let the boy go out of their sight. He
is the object of their love, dearer to them than their own
lives. Verily he who nurtures, possesses the son.

The day said: —

32. They fed him on the choicest delicacies. They
gave him the rarest garments and excellent ornaments.

Brahma said: —

33. On hearing their words, the destroyer of Pura 139
became glad. In his joy he gave monetary gifts to the
brahmins.

34. On receiving the news of her son, ParvatI was
delighted. She distributed a crore of gems and much
wealth among the brahmins.

35. LaksmI, Sarasvati, Mena, Savitri and all other
women, Visnu and all other gods gave much wealth to the
brahmins.

36. Urged by the gods, sages and mountains, the lord

139. Siva is called Purasudana, Tripurari or Purari, "the slayer
o J Pura", for he destroyed Bana who was called Tripurasura because he
had received in gift three cities from Siva, Brahma and Visnu.

730

Sivapurana

sent his Ganas as his emissaries to the place where his son
was staying.

37-39. O Narada, he sent Virabhadra, Visa.la.ksa,
Sankukarna, Parakrama, Nandisvara, Mahakala, Vajra-
damstra, Mahonmada, Gokarnasya, Dadhimukha who was
comparable to the blazing flame of fire, a hundred thousand
Ksetrapalas, three hundred thousand BhGtas, Rudras,
Bhairavas, and innumerable others of the same exploit as
that of Siva and of hideous features.

40. All the emissaries of Siva went and haughtily
encircled the abode of the Krttikas with various miraculous
weapons in their hands.

41. On seeing them the Krttikas were extremely
terrified. They spoke to Karttikeya blazing with divine
splendour.

Krttikas said: —

42. Dear boy, innumerable soldiers have encircled the
house. What shall be done ? Where are we to go. A
great danger has beset us.

Karttikeya said: —

43. O good women, O mothers, cast off your fear.
When I am here what fear need you have ? Although I am
a boy I am invincible. Who can thwart me ?

Brahma said : —

44. In the meantime, NandiSvara the commander-in-
chief sat in front of Karttikeya and said.

Nandtfvara said: —

45. O brother, O mothers, listen to my auspicious
mission. I have been commissioned by lord Siva, the
annihilator.

46. O dear, all the gods, Brahma, Visnu, Siva and
others are holding a jubilant conference at Kailasa.

47. At that time Parvati addressed Siva the bene-
factor of all, in that assembly urging a search for you.

48. Siva asked the assembly severally about you in

Rudrasarhhita

731

order to get you back. They too replied in a suitable
manner.

49. They said to Siva that you were here in the
abode of Krttikas. Dharma and others who are the cosmic
witnesses of all righteous and unrighteous activities revealed
your whereabouts.

50. Formerly Parvati and Siva indulged in their secret
sexual dalliance. The semen of Siva seen by the gods fell
on the ground.

51. The earth dropped it into the fire, the fire on the
mountain, the mountain in the Ganga and the Ganga
transmitted it to the grove of Sara plants by her following
currents and waves.

52. There you developed into a boy, the lord with
the mission of fulfilling the task of the gods. There you
were picked up by the Krttikas. Now you shall come down
to the Earth.

53. Siva will be crowning you in the company of the
gods. You will get miraculous weapons and will slay the
demon Taraka.

54. You are the son of the annihilator of the universe
and these (Krttikas) are impatient to gain possession of you
as the dry tree tries to conceal fire within its hollow though
it is incapable of holding it.

55. You are brilliant enough to illuminate the uni-
verse. You do not fit in well in this abode just as a majestic
elephant fallen in a deep well does not retain splendour.

56. You can shed splendour if your brilliance is not
hidden just as the sun illuminates the world only when it is
not hidden by the cloud.

57. In the matter of omnipresence in the universe you
alone are Visnu, O Siva's son. The all-pervading sky is not
pervaded by anything else.

58. A Yogin is not entangled in the activities of
nurturing himself. The soul is not involved in the physical
activities.

59. You are the creator of the universe, you are the
lord. Your place is not among these. You are a mass of
attributes and splendour as the soul of a Yogin.

60. O brother, those who do not know you are of

732

Sivapurana

damned intellect. Although the toads and lotuses are in
the same pond toads are not honoured.

Karttikeya said: —

61. O brother, you know everything. You are per-
fectly wise possessing the knowledge of the past, present and
future, since you are an attendant of Siva. Hence no praise
of yours is specially called for.

62- O brother, people get reconciled to whatever
form of species of life they are born- Their own actions are
responsible for their birth and they are satisfied.

63. The Krttikas are wise women of Yogic practice.
They are the digits of Prakrti. They have helped in
nurturing me with their own breast milk.

64. I am their fostered son. They are my own part
and parcel. I am born of Prakrti and the semen of the
lord of Prakrti.

65. O Nandikeivara, I am not severed from the
daughter of the lord of mountains who is virtually my
mother just as these ladies on the basis of virtuous rites.

66. You have been sent by Siva. You are like a son
unto Siva. I am coming with you. I shall see the gods.

67. After saying so and hurriedly taking leave of the
Krttikas, Karttikeya started along with the attendants of
Siva.

CHAPTER FIVE

{Karttikeya is crowned)

Brahma said: —

1-2. In the meantime he saw an excellent, lustrous and
wonderful chariot, made by VisVakarman. It was a com-
modious with a hundred wheels. It was beautiful and had
the quickness of the mind. It had been sent by Parvati and
was surrounded by the excellent attendants of Siva.

3. With an aching heart, Karttikeya, born of the semen

Rudrasamhita

m

of lord Siva, the perfectly wise and endless Being, got
into it.

4. At the same time, the distressed grief-stricken
Krttikas approached him with dishevelled hair and began to
speak like mad women.

Krttikas said : —

5. O ocean of mercy, how is it that you ruthlessly
leave us and go ? This is not a virtuous thing for a fostered
son to forsake his mothers.

6. You have been brought up by us affectionately.
Hence you are our son in virtue of that. What shall we
do ? Where shall we go ? What can we do ?

7. After saying this and closely embracing Karttikeya,
the Krttikas fell into a swoon due to the imminent separa-
tion from their son.

8. Restoring them to consciousness and instructing
them with spiritual utterances, O sage, he got into the
chariot along with them and the Parsadas too.

9. Seeing and hearing various auspicious and pleasing
things Kumara went to the palace of his father along with
the Parsadas.

10. Kumara reached the foot of a Nyagrodha tree at
Kailasa in the fast chariot along with Nandin seated to
his right.

11. There Kumara, the son of Siva, an expert in
various divine sports, waited along with the Krttikas and
the chief of Parsadas, in great delight.

12. Then all the gods, sages, Siddhas, Garanas, Visnu
and Brahma announced his arrival.

13. Then in order to see him Siva, along with Visnu,
Brahma, the gods, sages and others went there.

14. Many conches, Bheris and Turyas were sounded.
There was great jubilation among the delighted gods.

15. Vlrabhadra and other Ganas followed them with
different chiming cymbols beating the time and sporting
about.

16. Eulogising and being eulogised they sang songs
of praise.

734

Sivapurdna,

17. Shouting cries of "Victory" and "Obeisance" the
delighted people went to see the excellent son of Siva born
in the grove of Sara plants. 110

18. Parvati caused the entire outskirts of the city
fully decorated with Padmaraga and other gems. The main
highway was rendered beautiful and auspicious.

19. The thirty goddesses Laksmi and others stood in
front, along with chaste ladies whose husbands and sons
were alive and Parvati stood ahead of them.

20. At the bidding of Parvati, the smiling celestial
damsels, Rambha and others, dressed gorgeously, were
engaged in singing and dancing.

21. Those who looked at Kumara resembling Siva
saw a great halo pervading the three worlds.

22. Immediately they saluted Kumaxa who was
enveloped by the brilliant halo, the lustre of molten gold
and the refulgence of the sun.

23. With shoulders stooping down and eagerly engaged
in shouting the cry of "Obeisance" they flanked him to the
right and left and stood by.

24. Visnu, Indra and I as well as the gods prostrated
on the ground and went round Kumara.

25. In the meantime Siva, and Parvati highly
delighted and jubilant came there and saw their son.

26. On seeing his son, the great lord Siva, the sole
kinsman of the universe along with the great goddess Parvati
was filled with pleasure and love — the lord who wore snakes
on his body and was surrounded by the Pramathas.

27. On seeing Parvati and Siva, Karttikeya got down
from the chariot immediately and saluted them.

28. Embracing him with love, Siva kissed Kumara on
the head. Ue, the cause of great affection, was highly
delighted.

29. Embracing him in great excitement and melting
with love, Parvati suckled him at her breasts.

140. Kumara is said to be born of Siva's semen that was first
swallowed by the Fire assuming the form of a pigeon, then by the
KrttikSs, the six wives of the sages, then by Gaiiga who deposited it in
the reeds. Kumara is thus called 3H*%3", Splftr^ itfpT and 5[^5T I

Rudrasathhita

735

30. The Nirajana rite was performed by the delighted
gods in the company of their wives.

31. The sages adored Kumara with the Vedic chants,
the musicians by singing songs, and others by playing upon
musical instruments.

32. Placing Kumara shining with brilliant lustre on
his lap Parvati shone with glory as the greatest among
women who carried sons.

33. At the bidding of Siva, Kumara in the company
of his Ganas came to Siva's abode. He felt very happy in
the company of jubilant gods.

34. The couple shone simultaneously being saluted by
the sages and surrounded by the important gods.

35. Kumara delightedly played about in the lap of Siva.
Pie teased Vasuki 141 round Siva's neck with his hands.

36. Seeing that sportive act with his merciful vision,
lord Siva spoke about it to Parvati laughingly.

37. Seeing the gentle smile of Kumara, lord Siva and
Parvati attained great joy. The lord, the sole ruler of the
worlds and kinsman of the universe uttered nothing with his
throat choked through affection.

38. Then Siva, the lord of the universe, following the
worldly convention delightedly placed Karttikeya on a beautiful
gemset throne.

39. With hundreds of gemset pots filled with the
waters of holy centres sanctified by Vedic mantras he
performed his ceremonial ablution joyously.

40. Visnu gave him a crown, a coronet and bracelets
moulded and set in gems, his own necklace Vaijayanti and
the discus.

41. Siva gave him the trident, the bow Pinaka, the
axe, the arrow Paiupata, the weapon of destruction and the
greatest lore.

42. I gave him the holy thread, the Vcdas, the mantra
Gayatri, the vessel Kamandalu, the arrow Brahmastra and
the lore that destroys the enemy.

43. Then Indra gave him a lordly elephant and a

141. Vftsuki, the King of the Nagas, is said to adorn Siva's neck.

736

Sivapurana

thunderbolt. The lord of the waters, Varuna, gave him a
white umbrella and a necklace of gems to wear.

44. The sun gave him a chariot as fast as the mind
and a coat of mail with great equipments; Yama his own staff;
the moon a vessel full of nectar.

45. Agni lovingly gave him a spear; Nirrti his own
weapon and the wind his own weapon.

46. Kubera gave him a mace; Siva a spear; the gods
different kinds of weapons and implements.

47. The delighted lord of Kama gave him the weapon
of love, a club and his own lore with great pleasure.

48. The ocean of milk gave him valuable gems and a
splendid anklet set with gems. Himavat gave him divine
ornaments and garments.

49. Garuda gave him his own son Citrabarhana;
Aruna a powerful cock Tarnracuda.

50. Parvati gave him power and prosperity smilingly
and joyously- She gave him longevity too with great pleasure.

51. Laksmi gave him divine wealth and a great and
beautiful necklace. Savitri gave him the entire Siddhavidya 142
with joy.

52. O sage, the other goddesses too who had come
there gave him their respective presents. The Krttikas
too did the same.

53. O excellent sage, there was great jubilation there.
Everyone was delighted, especially Parvati and Siva.

54. In the meantime, O sage, the powerful Siva,
spoke to Brahma and to other gods laughingly and joyously.

Siva said: —

55. "O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, you listen to my
words. I am delighted in all respects. Please choose the
boons you wish."

Brahma said: —

56. O sajge, on hearing those words of Siva, Visnu

142. Siddhavidya is the supreme knowledge of Yogic attainment
that renders a person spiritually efficacious.

Rudrasarhhita

737

and other gods spoke to Siva with faces beaming with
pleasure.

The gods said: —

57. te O lord, Taraka will certainly be killed by
Kumara. It is for that purpose that he is born.

58. Hence in our effort to kill him we shall start
this very day. Please give your directions to Kumara. I et
him slay Taraka for our happiness.

59. Thinking that it shall be so, lord Siva entrusted
his son to the gods in order to kill Taraka, urged by his
mercy that he was.

60. At the bidding of Siva, Brahma, Visnu and other
gods jointly started from the mountain keeping Kumara
in front.

61. After coming out of Kailasa, at the behest of
Visnu, Tvastr built a wonderfully fine city very near the
mountain.

62. There he built a divine, exquisite and wonderfully
brilliant house for Kumara. Tvastr set up an excellent
throne there.

63. The intelligent Visnu performed the auspicious
ceremony of crowning Karttikeya in the company of the
gods by means of waters from all holy centres.

64. He bedecked Karttikeya in every manner and
dressed him gorgeously. He went through the ceremony in
brief and made everyone celebrate the event with
pleasure.

65. Visnu joyously gave him the suzerainty of the
universe. He applied the Tilaka mark and worshipped him
along with the gods.

66. Bowing to Karttikeya with pleasure along with the
gods and sages he eulogised the eternal form of Siva with
various hymns.

67. Karttikeya seated in the excellent throne and
assuming the lordship and protectorate of the universe shone
extremely well.

738

Sivapurdqd

CHAPTER SIX

{The miraculous feat of Karttikeya)

Brahma said: —

1. There Kumara showed a miraculous feat. O
Narada, listen to it that bestows devotion.

2. Then a certain brahmin Narada came there, seeking
refuge in Kumara. He was glorious and had been per-
forming a sacrifice.

3. Approaching Kumara, bowing to and eulogising
him with auspicious hymns the delighted brahmin related
his tale.

The brahmin said: —

4. O lord, listen to my words. Relieve my distress.
You are the lord of the universe. I seek refuge in you.

5. I began a goat sacrifice. The goat got loosened
and strayed away from my house.

6. I do not know where it has gone. I have searched
for it here and there but have not found it. Hence this
will cause a serious default in my sacrifice.

7. While you are the lord, how can there be an
obstacle to my sacrifice? O lord, after pondering over this
matter please fulfil my task.

8. O lord, O son of Siva, who else can I approach
except you, who are worthy of being resorted to, who are
the lord of the entire universe and are served by all
the gods.

9-10. You are the kinsman of the distressed. You are
worthy of being served well. You are favourably disposed
to your devotees. You are the great lord eulogised by
Visnu, Brahma and other gods. You are Skanda the
delighter of Parvati, the sole destroyer of enemies, the great
soul, the lord who bestows his own self upon the good
seeking refuge in him.

11. O lord of the distressed, O great lord, O son of
Siva, O lord of the three worlds, O master of magical art,
I have to seek refuge in you. O favourite of the brahmins,
save me. You are the lord of all. You are eulogised by

Rudrasarhhita

Brahma and other gods who bow to you. You have
assumed forms through magical art. You are the bestower
of happiness to your devotees. You are eager to protect.
You wield power of deluding others.

12. You love devotees as your own vital air. You are
the receptacle of all attributes. You are beyond three attri-
butes. You are the beloved of Siva. You are Siva Himself.
You confer welfare. You are the bestower of happiness with
delight. You are the great Existent and cosmic conscious-
ness. You are the son of Siva, the omniscient who destroyed
the three cities of Asuras. You are always subservient to
great and pious love. You have six faces. You love the
saintly persons who kneel to you. You are the lord of all
people and their benefactor. You destroy those, who harass
the good. You are the preceptor of even Siva. You are
the lord of the entire universe. Your feet are served by all
the gods. O lover of service, save me.

13. O Skanda, terrible to the enemies, the benefactor
of the devotees, I bow to your lotus-like feet. You are the
refuge of people and source of their happiness. Please hear
my submission through your ears. Please instil into the
heart of everyone the feelings of devotion to you.

14. If you are the protector with efficient honour
what harm can an opponent do even if he be strong and
efficient and protected on either side? What harm can even
Taksaka 143 or even a carnivorous animal do unto him.

15. Even the preceptor of the gods cannot eulogise
you adequately. Then tell me, how can I a foolish and
wretched creature ? O Skanda, pure or impure, noble or
ignoble, of whatever nature I be, I pray unto the dust of
your lotus-like feet.

16. O lord of all, ocean of mercy, favourably disposed
to devotees, I am your own servant. May even a hundred
sins of your own servant or a leader of the Ganas be forgiven.
O lord, you know even the slightest act of devotion done
anywhere. You are the destroyer of the distress of your
servants. O lord, there is no other protector save you and
no other wretched vulgar person than I.

143. Tak$aka, the son of Kadru, is a venomous serpent chief.

740

Sivapurana

17. O lord, you are the cause of welfare, the
destroyer of the sins of Kali age and a friend of Kubera.
Your heart melts with pity. You have twelve eyes and
you shine with six faces. Please make my sacrifice complete
and perfect.

18. You are the protector of the three worlds,
favourite of those who seek refuge in you. You are the
performer and sustainer of sacrifices. You remove those who
bring in obstacles.

19. O warder of obstacles, the cause of the creation
of the good in every respect, O son of liiana, please make
my sacrifices complete. Obeisance be to you,

20. O Skanda, you are the protector of all, the
knower of all and the lord of all and Isana. By your penetra-
tion you protect all.

21. You alone are the knower of music, the great
lord and knower of the Vedas. You are all-in-all, the
creator, the lord of the gods and the goal of the good.

22. You are the joy of Parvati, the son of Siva. You
are the perfect wisdom, the self-ruler, the meditator and the
object of meditation. You are the father of the fathers and
the source of origin of good souls.

Brahma said : —

23. On hearing his words, Siva's son, the emperor of
the gods, sent his attendant Virabahu on that mission.

24. At his bidding, the great hero Virabahu who
bowed to his master with devotion started in search of it.

25. He searched throughout the universe but nowhere
did he find the goat (although) he heard about the havoc
done by it.

26. Then he went to Vaikuntha where he saw the
powerful goat working havoc with the sacrificial stake tied to
its neck.

27. The hero dragged it catching hold of its horns and
brought it quickly before his lord even as it was bleating
loudly.

28. On seeing it, lord Karttikeya who could carry the
weighty universe, and the worker of great miracles, quickly
rode on it.

Rudrasamhita

741

29. Within a Muhurta, O sage, the goat walked round
the universe and without exhaustion returned to the same
place.

30. Then the lord got down and resumed his seat. The
goat stood there itself. Then the brahmin Narada told the
lord.

Narada said : —

31. Obeisance to you, O lord of gods, O storehouse
of mercy, give the goat to me. Let me perform the sacrifice
with pleasure. Please assist me as my friend.

Kdrttikeya said: —

32. O brahmin Narada, this goat does not deserve to
be killed. Return home. May your sacrifice be complete. It
has been so ordained by my favour.

Brahma said : —

33. On hearing the words of the lord, the brahmin was
delighted. He returned home after bestowing his excellent
blessings.

CHAPTER SEVEN

{Commencement of the War)

Brahma said : —

1. On seeing that miraculous feat of Kumara, Visnu
and other gods became delighted. They were convinced of
his prowess.

2. Keeping Kumara at the head, shouting and roar-
ing, purified by Siva's splendour they started to attack
Taraka.

3. When he heard about the preparation of the gods,
the powerful Taraka rushed to fight back the gods with a
great army.

4. On seeing the great army of Taraka approaching, the
gods were surprised but roared like lions.

742

Sivapurana

5. Then a celestial voice, prompted by Siva addressed
Visnu and all other gods.

The celestial Voice said ; —

6. O gods, keeping Kumara at the head you have
entered the lists. Defeating the Asuras in the battle, you will
be victorious.

Brahma said : —

7. On hearing the celestial voice, the gods became
enthusiastic. Fearlessly they roared like heroes.

8. With their fear subsided, and keeping Kumara
ahead, the gods went to the confluence of the river Mahl and
the ocean 111 desirous of righting.

9. Immediately Taraka, along with a great army,
came to the place where the gods stood and was surrounded
by them in a body.

10. Battle drums were sounded as loud as the rumbl-
ing sound of the clouds at the dissolution of the world.
The harsh musical instruments were also played when he
came.

1 1 . The Asuras in the company of Taraka roared and
shook the ground with their thudding footsteps, leapings and
bouncings.

12. Undaunted by that terrible noise, the gods simul-
taneously rose up to fight Taraka.

13. Accompanied by the great army of the gods and
the guardians of the quarters, lord Indra seated Kumara on
an elephant and rushed forward.

14. Great wardrums, Dundubhis, Bherls and Turyas,
lutes, flutes and Mrdangas were sounded and the Gandharvas
sang war songs.

15. Leaving the elephant to lord Indra, Kumara
got in an aerial chariot of wonderful build and studded
with different sets of gems.

16. Seated in the aerial chariot, the son of Siva

14.4. The scene of the battle between the gods and Asuras is placed
in the Western India on the coast of the Arabian sea where the sacred
river Mahl that issues from Sahyapada hill falls into it For details see
Dr. Avaslhi: Studies in Skandapurana, pp. 128, 140, 160, 168.

Rudrasarhhita

743

endowed with good qualities and of great renown shone
with great splendour. He was being fanned with lustrous
chowries.

17. The lustrous umbrella presented by Varuna,
shining with various gems was held aloft over his head.
Beams of light as though of infinite moons shed great lustre
around.

18. Indra and other gods of great strength, desirous
of fighting, joined him with their own divisions of the
army.

19. The gods and the demons stood in their arrays
on the ground with a vast army ready to start the battle.

20. With the bards singing their songs of praise, the
armies of the gods and the Asuras shone in their eagerness
to pounce on and crush each other.

21. The two armies as vast as a wild jungle roared.
They were terrific to the coward and pleasing to the brave.

22. In the meantime the rank and file of the Asuras
and the gods, haughty of their strength and blazing with
fury came together in a mutual clash.

23. A terrific tumultuous fight between the gods and
the Asuras ensued. Within a moment the place was littered
with severed heads and headless trunks.

24. Wounded and killed by great weapons } hundreds
and thousands of heroic soldiers fell on the ground.

25. The arms of some were cut off by terrible blows
from swords. Others lost their thighs in the battle of those
honourable, heroic people.

26. The entire body of some was smashed by the
maces; the chests and hearts of some were pounded by iron
clubs; some were felled to the ground by spears and dragged
with nooses.

27. The backs of some were torn with javelins and
goads. Several heads chopped off by double-edged swords
fell on the ground.

28. Hundreds of headless, limbless trunks were seen
dancing and bouncing with arrows sticking to their hands.

29. Blood flowed like streams in hundreds of places.
Hundreds of ghosts and goblins flocked there.

30. Jackals and vixens began eating the flesh. Numbers

744

Sivapurdna

of vultures, kites, crows and carnivorous birds devoured the
flesh of those falling down.

31. In the meantime Taraka, the demon of great
strength, came there with a huge army to fight with the
gods.

32. On seeing the haughty warrior rushing on them,
Indra and others, turned against him. Then a tumultuous
sound arose from both the armies.

33. Duels were fought by the gods and the Asuras
crushing each other, on seeing which heroes were delighted
and cowards were terrified.

34. The Asura Taraka of great strength fought with
Indra, Samhrada with Agni and Yama with Jambha.

35. Lord Varuna fought with Nairrta and Bala.
Suvlra, the king of Guhyas, fought with Vayu.

36. Sambhu fought with Isana. Sumbha an expert
in battle fought with Sesa. Kumbha the Asura fought with
the Moon.

37. Kufijara of great strength and exploit, an expert in
different kinds of battles, fought with Mihira, using great
weapons.

38. Thus the gods and the Asuras, fought duels using
their full strength with resolution.

39. O sage, desiring to gain the upper hand and vying
with each other, the powerful gods and the Asuras were equally
invincible in the battle.

40. The fight between the gods and the Asuras desi-
rous of victory over each other was very tumultuous. It was
pleasing to the brave and terrible to the others.

41. The battle ground became impassable and awful
with the corpses of the gods and Asuras lying there in thous-
ands but it was very pleasing to the brave.

Rudrasamhita

745

CHAPTER EIGHT

( The battle between the gods and Asuras)

Brahma said : —

I. O Narada, O dear, thus I have described to you
the fight between the rank and file of both the armies of the
gods and Asuras. The fight was very tumultuous. Now
listen to the fight between the two leaders on either side.

2-3. In the tumultuous fight that ensued reducing the
numbers of the gods and the demons, lord Indra struck by
the great spear fell from his elephant and became unconscious.
The thunderbolt-bearing lord of gods attained great depres-
sion of spirits and swooned.

4. In the same manner, O dear, the guardians of the
quarters, though powerful, were defeated in battle by the
Asuras, great experts in warfare.

5. The other gods too were fought and defeated by the
Asuras. Unable to bear their ferocity they took to flight.

6. The victorious Asuras, their effort having been
successful, roared like lions and raised shouts of j ubilation.

7. In the meantime Virabhadra reached the place fur-
iously along with his heroic Ganas and approached Taraka
who professed to be a great hero.

8. The leader of the Ganas, the strong one born of the
anger of Siva, kept the gods in the rear and faced Taraka
desirous of fighting him.

9. Then the Pramathas and the jubilant Asuras, fond
of great battle, fought one another.

10. Skilled adepts in warfare they hit and smashed one
another with tridents, double-edged swords, nooses, axes and
sharp-edged spikes.

II. Immediately after being hit hard with a trident
by Virabhadra, Taraka fell unconscious on the ground.

1 2. Regaining consciousness quickly Taraka the excel-
lent Asura got up and forcefully hit Virabhadra with his
spear.

13. In the same manner, the heroic Virabhadra of
great brilliance hit Taraka with his sharp terrible trident.

746

Sivapurana

14. The powerful king of the Asuras, the heroic Taraka,
hit Virabhadra 145 again with spear.

15. Fighting each other thus they hit each other with
various weapons and missiles both being equally skilful in
the art of warfare.

16. £ven as others stood gazing, the two of great
energy continued their duel causing hair to stand on ends,
with tumultuous noise.

17. Then various military bands and drums like Bheris,
Mrdangas, Patahas, Anakas and Gomukhas were sounded by
the soldiers terrifying those who happened to hear.

1 8. Both of them were severely wounded by the mutual
hits and thrusts but still they continued their fight with
added vigour like Mercury and Mars.

19. On seeing the fight between him and Virabhadra,
you, the favourite of Siva went there and said to Virabhadra,

Narada said : — ■

20. "O Virabhadra, of great heroism, you are the leader
of the Ganas. Please desist from this fight. Your killing him
does not fit in properly".

21. On hearing your words, the leader of the Ganas
Virabhadra became furious but spoke to you with palms joined
in reverence.

Virabhadra said: —

22. O excellent sage, of great wisdom, listen to my
weighty words. I will kill Taraka. See my exploit today.

23. The soldiers who bring their masters to the battle-
field are sinners. They are no better than eunuchs. They are
doomed in the battle.

24. They will go the way of the wicked. Hell is
definitely in store for them. Virabhadra should never be
considered by you as such a despicable person.

145. Virabhadra, the chief of the ganas of Siva has become a mythi-
cal Being. In the scriptures in the caves of Elephanta and Ellora he is
represented with eight hands. According to tradition, he was created by
i>iva to destroy Daksa's sacrifice, to harry away the Gods and sages who
had assembled there. Dawson: H. M.

In the present context he figures as a prominent combatant on the
side of the Gods against the Asura chief Taraka.

Rudrasarhhitd

747

25. Those whose bodies are. rent and split with weapons
and missiles, but who still fight fearlessly shall be praised
here and hereafter. They derive wonderful happiness.

26. Let Visnu and other gods listen to my words — I shall
make the earth freed of Taraka today even without bringing
my master here.

27. Saying thus and taking up his trident, Virabhadra
mentally meditated on Siva and fought with Taraka, accomp-
anied by Pramathas.

28. With many heroic soldiers riding on bulls, wielding
the tridents and possessing three eyes he shone well in the
midst of that battle.

29. Keeping Virabhadra at their head, and shouting
fearlessly jubilantly, hundreds of the Ganas fought with the
Asuras.

30. The Asuras too, the dependants of the demon
Taraka, all equally strong and heroic, began to smash the
Ganas furiously.

31. The terrific mutual fights between the demons and
the Ganas happened again and again. Ultimately the Ganas,
experts in the use of great missiles, came out victorious and
were jubilant.

32. Defeated by the Ganas of great strength, the Asuras
turned their faces and began to flee. They were distressed
and agitated.

33. On seeing his army vanishing thus in flight, their
protector, the Asura Taraka, furiously rushed at the gods and
the Ganas.

34. He assumed ten thousand hands and rode on a
lion. In the battle that followed he felled the gods and the
Ganas quickly.

35-36. On seeing such a perpetration of Taraka,
Virabhadra, the leader of the Ganas, became very furious. In
order to kill him he took up his trident after remembering
the lotuslike feet of Siva. His brilliance then brightly illu-
minated all the quarters and the sky.

37. In the meantime, the master stopped the war. He
prevented Virabahu and others immediately in order to show
his own might.

38. At his bidding Virabhadra returned from the bat-

748

Sivapurana

tie. The heroic leader of the Asuras, Taraka, was still in
his unabated fury.

39. Then the Asura showered arrows on the gods and
put them to distress. He was skilful in the use of various
missiles in the war.

40. After causing a great havoc, Taraka, the protector
of Asuras, the most excellent among the brave, seemed in-
vincible to the gods.

41. On seeing the gods terrified and slaughtered,
Visnu became furious and got ready to fight.

42. Taking discus Sudarsana, the bow Sarnga and
other weapons with him, lord Visnu rushed to meet the great
Asura in the battle.

43. O sage, a great fight ensued between Visnu and
Taraka. It was very fierce It caused horripilation to the
onlookers.

44. Lifting up his club, Visnu hit the Asura with
great force but the powerful Asura split it with his trident.

45. The infuriated lord offering shelter to the gods hit
the leader of the Asuras by arrows discharged from his bow.

46. The heroic Asura Taraka, the slayer of enemies,
immediately split the arrows of the gods by his own sharp
arrows.

47. The Asura Taraka then quickly hit Visnu 146 with
his spear. On being hit thus, Visnu fell unconscious on the
ground.

48. In a trice, Visnu got up and in rage seized his
discus that was blazing with flames and he roared like a lion.

49. Visnu hit the king of Asuras with it. Overwhel-
med by the forceful hit he fell on the ground.

50. Getting up again, the foremost among Asuras and
their leader, Taraka using all his strength immediately split
the discus with his spear.

51. Again he struck Visnu the favourite of the gods
with that great spear. The heroic Visnu hit him back with
Nandaka.

146. Murari: 'The enemy of Mura'. It is an appellation of Vi?nu
who slew the Asura Mura. The latter was an allv of the Asura Naraka
who ruled over Pragjyotisa (modern Assam).

Rudrasarhhita

749

52 O sage, both Visnu and the Asura, equally power-
ful, hit each other in the battle with unabated strength.

CHAPTER NINE

{The boasting of Tar aha and the fight between him and Indra,
Visnu, Virabhadra)

Brahma said : —

1 . O Guha, O lord of gods, O son of Siva and Parvati,
the fight between Visnu and Taraka is not proper. It is
futile.

2. Taraka the powerful cannot be killed by Visnu.
He has been granted such a boon by me. It is truth. I am
telling you the truth.

3. O son of Parvati, none except you can be the
slayer of this sinner. O great lord, my words shall be carried
out by you.

4. O scorcher of enemies, please get ready to slay him.
O son of Parvati you are born of Siva for killing that demon.

5. O great hero, save the gods distressed in the battle.
You are neither a boy nor a youth but the lord of all.

6. See Indra and Visnu. They are agitated and dis-
tressed, So also the gods and the Ganas. Slay this great
demon. Make the three worlds happy.

7. Formerly Indra and the guardians of the quarters
had been conquered by him. Due to the power of his pen-
ance, the heroic Visnu too has been threatened by him.

8. The entire universe of the three worlds has been
defeated by this wicked Asura. Now, because of your presence,
they have fought again.

9. Hence, O son of Siva, this sinful being Taraka
shall be killed by you. Due to the boon granted by me he
cannot be slain by any one else."

BrahmS said: —

10. On hearing these words of mine., Kumara, son of
Siva, was delighted and he laughed. "So be it", said he,

750

£ivapurand

11. Resolving to kill the Asura, the great lord, son of
Siva got down from the aerial chariot and stood on the
ground.

12. Running on foot, seizing his lustrous spear blazing
like a meteor, the powerful warrior Kumara born of Siva
shone well.

13. On seeing the incomprehensible six-headed deity
coming forward, fierce and unagitated, the Asura spoke to the
gods derisively— "O this child indeed will slay the enemies !"

14. I will fight with him single-handed. I will kill
the soldiers, the Ganas and the guardians of the quarters led
by Visnu.

15. Saying thus, the powerful Asura rushed at Kumara
to fight with him. Taraka seized his wonderful spear and
spoke to the gods.

Taraka said : —

16. "How is it that you all kept Kumara face to face
with me? You gods are shameless especially Indra and
Visnu,

17. Formerly, both of them had acted in violation of
the Vedic path. Listen. I shall describe the same.

18. Visnu is deceptive, defective and indiscreet. It
was by him that Bali 1 * 7 was formerly bound by taking
recourse to deception with sinful intention.

19. The Asuras Madhu and Kaitabha 148 were beheaded
by his roguishness. He forsook the Vedic path.

20. When the gods and Asuras sat for drinking the
nectar it was he who violated the sanctity of the vows when
he assumed the form of an enchantress. 119 Thus he slighted
the Vedic path.

147. Bali, the son ofVirocana, was an Asura-ehief. He was deceived
by Visnu in the form of a dwarfish Brahmin. The latter asked Bali to
grant him three steps of ground and Bali consenting, ihe dwarf stepped and
covered heaven and earth in two strides. However he desisted from
taking the third step and left the nether region for Bali's sake.

148. Madhu and Kaitabha were the two demons sprung from the
ear of Visnu while he was asleep at the end of a Kalpa. They were
about to kill Brahma but were treacherously killed by Visnu and thrown
into the sea.

• ^ I4 , 9 j . In the guise of an ench antress, Visnu deprived Asuras of their
right of drinking nectar produced from churning the ocean.

Rudrasatfihita

21. Taking birth as Rama he killed a woman
(Tadaka). Bali's death was brought about by him with a vile
trick. A brahmin descendant of Visravas was killed by
him. 160 Thus he violated the injunction of the Sruti.

22. Sinful that he was, he forsook his own innocent
wife. There too, he violated the path of Sruti for achieving
his selfish end.

23. In his sixth incarnation (as Parasurama) 151 he cut
off the head of his own mother. This wicked man insulted
his own preceptor's son. 152

24. Incarnating as Krsna he defiled the wives of others
and forced them to violate the traditional virtues of the
family. He contracted his marriages without any reference
to the Vedic path.

25. Again in his ninth incarnation 153 he slighted the
Vedic path and contrary to its principles, preached and
established the atheistic philosophy called Buddhism.

26. How can he be considered an excellent, virtuous
man, how can he be victorious in battle who has committed
sin without caring for Vedic cult ?

27. Indra, his elder brother, is a greater sinner. He
has committed many sins for his self-interest.

28. To gain his selfish end, by him Diti's foetus was
destroyed; 154 the modesty of Gautama's wife was outraged, 155
Vrtra, the son of a brahmin, was killed. 166

150. This refers to the slaying of the woman Tadaka and the
monkey chief Bali as well as the Brahrnana King Ravana by Rama, the
son of Dasaratha, the seventh incarnation of Visnu.

151. Visnu in his sixth incarnation as Parasurama is said to have
cut off the head of his mother Renuka who had incensed her husband by
entertaining impure thoughts.

T52. The event may refer to Parasurama who severed a tusk of
GaneSa, the son of his preceptor.

153. Gotama Buddha, the ninth incarnation of Visnu, had revolted
against Vedic doctrines and preached heretic and revolutionary thoughts of
his own.

154. It refers to the episode of Indra, the elder brother of Visnu
who entered into the womb of Diti. the wife of Kasyapa and cut the un-
born child into fortynine pieces with his thunderbolt.

155. Indra seduced Ahalya, the wife of Gautama and had to suffer
for his adultery.

156. Indra incurred the sin of slaying Vrtra, an Asura Brahrnana.

752

Sivapurana

29. He beheaded the brahmin Visvarupa, 157 the
nephew of Brhaspati. Thus he transgressed the Vedic path.

30. Doing such sinful acts frequently Visnu and Siva
are already deficient in splendour and their prowess is
spent out.

31. You will never gain victory in the battle by
relying on them. Why then did you foolishly come here to
lose your lives ?

32. These two, always seeking selfish ends, do not
know what is virtue. O gods, without virtue every rite
becomes futile.

33. These two impudent fellows are presumptuous
enough to place a child in front of me. Why ? I will kill
the child too. They too will have it.

34. But let the child leave from here and save his
life." After saying this, hinting at Indra and Visnu he
turned to Virabhadra and said.

35. "Formerly in the sacrifice of Daksa, many brahmins
had been killed by you, O sinless one, I shall show you the
fruit thereof."

Brahma said : —

36. Saying this and dispossessing himself of his own
merit by that act of censure, Taraka the foremost among
war-mongers seized his wonderful spear.

37. Indra who was going ahead of Kumara hit the
demon Taraka forcibly with his thunderbolt as he was
approaching the boy.

38. Taraka was shattered and split by that blow of
the thunderbolt, his power being sapped up already by the
act of censure. He fell on the ground.

39. Though he fell down, he got up immediately and
furiously hit Indra who was seated on an elephant, with
his spear and felled him to the ground.

40. When Indra fell down there was a great hue
and cry. On seeing it a great pain entered the army of
the gods.

41. Know from me the vile action that Taraka has

157. Indra cut off the three heads of Visvarupa, the son of Tvas|j\

Rudrasarfihita

753

committed against virtue which is sure to bring about his
own ruin.

42. He stamped on Indra with his foot after he fell
down and seized his thunderbolt with which he hit him
with great force.

43. Seeing Indra thus insulted, the powerful lord
Visnu lifted his discus and hit Taraka.

44. Hit by the discus he fell on the ground. Getting
up again, the lord of the Asuras hit Visnu with his spear.

45. On being hit by the spear Visnu fell on the
ground. There was a great uproar. The gods lamented
much.

46-47. Within a moment Visnu got up but by that
time Virabhadra came near the demon and dexterously
raised his trident. The powerful Virabhadra hit him with
all his force.

48. Hit by the trident he fell on the ground. Though
he fell down, Taraka of mighty splendour got up again.

49. The great hero, the leader of the entire host of
Asuras hit Virabhadra in his chest with his great spear.

50. Virabhadra, hit by the spear furiously in his chest,
fell unconscious on the ground.

51. The gods, the Ganas, Gandharvas, Serpents and
Raksasas lamented frequently with cries of "Alas" ''Alas."

52. Within a moment, the powerful Virabhadra, the
slayer of enemies, got up lifting his trident aloft, that had
the lustre of lightning and was blazing forth.

53. The trident had a halo .around, like', that. of the
sun, the moon and the fire. It illuminated the quarters by
means of its brilliance; caused terror even in the hearts of
the brave. It had a deadly splendour and blazed well.

54. When the powerful Virabhadra was about to hit
the Asura with his trident, he was prevented by Kumara.

754

>ivapurana

CHAPTER TEN

{Jubilation of the gods at the death of Taraka)

Brahma satd. . —

1. After preventing Virabhadra, Kumara, the slayer
of enemies, desired the destruction of Taraka after remember-
ing the lotuslike feet of Siva.

2. Then the powerful Karttikeya of great splendour
roared. Angrily he got ready for the fight. He was surrou-
nded by a vast army.

3. Shouts of victory were raised by the gods and the
Ganas. He was eulogised by the celestial sages with pleasing
words.

4. The fight between Taraka and Kumara was terrific
and unbearable. All the living beings were afraid.

5. O sage, even as all the persons stood gazing wonde-
ringly, both of them fought each other with spears in their
hands.

6. Each was wounded in the heart by the other with
the spear. Each tried to escape from the other's, thrust. Both
were equally strong like two lions. Both were fully equipped
for the fight.

7. They fought and hit each other's spear taking recourse
to the mantras Vaitalika, Khecaraka, Praptika etc.

8. With these mantras they were possessed of magical
properties. They wonderfully fought each other using their
full strength' and exploits.

9. They were equally good adepts in fighting. Each
wanted to kill the other. They utilised all their power. With
the edges of spears they hit each other.

10. They hit or cut each other's head, neck, thighs,
knees, hips, heart, chest and the back.

1 1 . They continued the fight swaggering and vaunting
with heroic words. They were experts in different tactics of
warfare. They were equally strong. They desired to kill
each other.

15ft. Vaitalikaj Khecaraka and Prapti signify the various attainments
of magical or supernatural type which can be exploited for various
purposes.

Rudrasarhhitd

755

12. AH the gods Gandharvas and Kinnaras stood as
mere onlookers. "Who will win this battle ?" they asked
each other.

13. Then a celestial voice rose appeasing the gods —
"In this battle Kumara will kill the Asura Taraka.

14. None of the gods need be anxious. All shall rest
assured. For your welfare Siva Himself is standing here in
the form of His son."

15. On hearing the auspicious words uttered by the
celestial voice, Kumara became happy. He was surrounded
by the Pramathas. He resolved to kill Taraka, the king of
Asuras.

16. The infuriated Kumara of powerful arms used his
full strength and hit Asura Taraka in between his nipples.

17. 'Slighting that blow, the leading demon Taraka, hit
Kumara angrily with his spear.

18. At the blow of the spear, the son of Siva became
unconscious. He regained his consciousness in a few minutes.
He was eulogised by the great sages.

19. Kumara became furious like a maddened lion and
was desirous of killing the Asura. The powerful Kumara hit
Taraka with his spear.

20. Thus both Kumara and Taraka equally inflamed
and equally well versed in the battle of spears fought each
other.

2 1 . Both appeared to possess plenty of practice. Both
had the desire to gain the upper hand. Both fought on foot,
had wonderful forms and features and were equally cou-
rageous.

22. With massive heaps of fatal missiles they hit each
other. They had various ways of attack. They roared. They
exhibited their all exploits.

23. The onlookers, the gods, the Gandharvas and the
Kinnaras were much surprised. They did not speak anything
there.

24. The wind did not blow. The sun became dim.
The earth quaked along with mountains and forests.

25. In the meantime Himalaya and other mountains
anxious to see Kumara out of affection came there.

26. On seeing the mountains extremely terrified,

756

Sivapurana.

Kumara the son of Siva and Parvati spoke enlightening them
thereby.

Kumara said : —

27. O mountains, O fortunate sirs, do not be vexed,
or worried. Even as you stand looking on I will kill this
sinner.

28. Consoling the mountains, the gods and the Ganas
thus, and bowing to Siva and Parvati he took up his brilliant
spear.

29. The heroic Kumara, son of Siva the great lord,
with the spear in his hand shone in his resolve to kill Taraka.

30. Possessing the brilliance of Siva, Kumara with his
spear struck Taraka who had harrassed the worlds.

31. Immediately the Asura Taraka the ruler of the
hosts of Asuras, although very heroic, fell on the ground with
all his limbs shattered.

32. The great warrior Taraka was slain by Kumara.
O sage, even as all were looking on, he .passed away.

33. On seeing the powerful Asura fallen dead in the
battle, the hero did not go and attack him again.

34. When the powerful Asura was slain, other Asuras
were killed by gods and Ganas.

35. Some of the Asuras who were afraid joined their
palms in reverence. In the battle the limbs of many Asuras
were chopped off and severed. Thousands were killed too.

36. Some of the Asuras shrieking "O save O save"
with palms joined in reverence sought refuge in Kumara.

37. Numberless Asuras were killed. Many fled. The
fleeing Asuras were beaten and harassed by the gods and the
Gan'as.

38. Thousands of them fled to Patala for their life.
Those who tried to flee were disappointed and put to distress.

39. O great sage, thus the entire army of the Asuras
disappeared. None dared to remain there for fear of the gods
and the Ganas.

40. When the wicked Asura was killed, the whole uni-
verse became freed of thorns, freed from the danger and nui-
sance of the Asuras. Indra and other gods became happy.

Rudrasarhhita

757

41. Thus when Kumara came out victorious the gods
were happy. The three worlds attained great pleasure.

42. On knowing about the victory of KLarttikeya, Siva
came there joyously with his beloved and the Ganas.

43. He took his son on his lap and fondled him with
pleasure. Parvati in her flutter of affection took Kumara,
resplendent as the sun, on her lap and fondled him with
pleasure.

44. Then Himavat came there along with his sons,
kinsmen and servants. He eulogised Siva and Guha.

45. The delighted gods, Ganas and sages, Siddhas and
Caranas eulogised Parvati, Siva and the son of Siva.

46. The secondary gods poured a great shower of
flowers. The chiefs of Gandharvas sang. The celestial damsels
danced.

47. The musical instruments were played sweetly then.
Frequent loud shouts of "Victory" and "Obeisance" were
raised.

48. Visnu too in my company was very glad. He
respectfully eulogised Siva, Parvati and Kumara.

49. Keeping Kumara in front, Brahma, Indra and
other gods performed the rite of Nlrajana lovingly. Other
sages too did likewise.

50. Then there was great jubilation with vocal and
instrumental music and chantings of the Vedas. Hymns too
were sung.

51 . The lord of the universe was eulogised, O sage, by
the delighted gods and Ganas by means of vocal and instru-
mental music.

52. Then eulogised by all, lord Siva along with Parvati
the mother of the universe, went to his mountain surrounded
by the Ganas.

758

Sivapurdna

CHAPTER ELEVEN

( The Victory of Kumara and the death of
Bona and Pralambd)

Brahma said: —

1. O sage, in the meantime the mountain Kraufica,
harassed by Bana came there and sought refuge in Kumara.

2. This Bana had been fleeing from the previous
battle, unable to bear the brilliance of the lord. He with
the army of ten thousand persons, inflicted pain on Kraufica
with the tip of his missiles.

3. The mountain Kraufica devoutly bowed at the lotus-
like feet of Kumara and eulogised him with reverence with
words full of love.

Kraufica said: —

4. O Kumara, O Skanda, O lord of gods, O slayer
of the Asura Taraka protect me who have sought refuge
in you. I am harassed by the Asura Bana.

5. O Mahasena, O lord, O merciful one, routed and
uprooted from the battle with you he came and harassed
me.

6. Afflicted by him I have run from him and sought
refuge in you. O lord of gods, born amongst the reeds, be
merciful.

7. O lord, please slay the Asura Bana. Make me
happy. You are the slayer of Asuras and a special saviour
of the gods. You are a self-ruler.

Brahma said: —

8. Skanda who was thus eulogised by Kraufica became
delighted. He, the saviour of the devotees, took up his
matchless spear and remembered Siva.

9. The son of &iva hurled the spear aiming at Bana.
It gave loud report, blazing forth the quarters and the sky.

10. O sage, reducing the Asuras to ashes along with
his army in a trice, the great spear returned to Kumara.

11. The lord Kumara told Kraufica, the chief of the

Rudrasarhhita

759

mountains, "Go home fearlessly. That Asura has been slain
along with his army."

12. On hearing the words of the lord, the delighted
lord of the mountains eulogised Kumara the slayer of his
enemy and went back to his abode.

13. O sage, with great pleasure and observing the
rules Skanda installed three phallic emblems of Siva that
quell all sins.

14. The first is called Pratijfiesvara, the second
Kapalesvara and the last Kumaresvara. The three are
capable of conferring all the achievements.

15. Thereafter Kumara, the lord of all, joyously in-
stalled the phallic image Stambhesvara, 169 near the column
of victory.

16. Then Visnu and other gods joyously installed the
phallic emblem of Siva, the lord of the gods.

17. The glory of the phallic emblems of Siva was
marvellous, conferring all cherished desires and salvation to
the devotees.

18. Then the delighted Visnu and the gods desired to
go to the chief of mountains joyously putting Brhaspati
ahead.

19. Then Kumuda 160 the son of Sesa who was harassed
by the Asuras came and sought refuge in Kumara.

20. Another follower of Taraka — Pralamba who had
fled from the previous battle wrought great havoc with full
force.

21. Kumuda, the great son of Sesa the lord of serpents,
sought refuge in Kumara the son of Paxvati and eulogised
him.

Kumuda said: —

22. O excellent son of great lord, lord of the gods, O

159. The four phallic^images of Siva named Pratijfiesvara. KapalesVara,
Kurnaresvava and Stambhesvara were set up at Oambay, the scene of the
battlefield, to commemorate the Victory of Guha over Taraka, the Asura-
chief.

160. According », to this account, Kumuda, the son of the serpent-
chief Sesa, was troubled by the Asura Pralamba who was the ally of
Taraka. Kumuda slew Pralamba and relieved Kumuda of distress.

This Pralamba is distinct from the Asura of the same name whose
destruction at the hands of BalarSma is recorded in the Mahabharata.

760 Avapurana

great chief, I am afflicted by Pralamba and am seeking
refuge in you.

23. O Kumara, O Skanda, O lord of the gods, O
great lord, O slayer of Taraka, save me harassed by the
Asura Pralamba and seeking refuge in you.

24. You are the kinsman of the distressed, the ocean
of mercy, favourably disposed to the devotees, the slayer of
the wicked, worthy of refuge and the goal of the good.

25. Eulogised thus by Kumuda and requested to slay
the demon Pralamba, the lord took up his spear after remem-
bering the lotus-like feet of Siva.

26. The son of ParvatI hurled the spear at Pralamba.
It made a loud report. The quarters and the sky blazed.

27. Reducing that powerful Asura to ashes in a trice
the spear carried out the job without strain and returned to
Kumara.

28. Then Kumara told the Naga child Kumuda — "Go
home fearlessly. That Asura has been slain along with
his army."

29. On hearing the words of Guha, Kumuda, the
son of the Naga chief eulogised and bowed to Kumara and
went to Patala 161 in great delight.

30. Thus the story 162 of the victory of Kumara, includ-
ing the wonderful way in which Taraka was slain, has been
narrated by me, O noble sage.

31. It is the divine story that removes all sins. It
bestows all desires on men. It is conducive to the increase
of wealth, glory and longevity. It confers worldly pleasures
and salvation on the good.

32. Those who recite this divine story of Kumara
and glorify him are infinitely fortunate and attain Sivaloka.

1 6 r . Patala is an island accessible through the searoute. It is an
abode of the Nagas with BhogavatI as the capital, (cf M M. K. Patala,
XL P. 454) It is variously identified with Ceylon in the mid-ocean.
G. P. i. '69. H4J, Indo-China and old Annam. See Avasthi, Studies in
Sk. P. P. ii3-

162. As &? slates, the victory of Kumara over the Asura Taraka is
a factual happening (vrttam), while V. S. Asjrawal insists on the symbolic
interpretation of the legend. According to hint Taraka is the Asuric form
in the individual which remains in contact with the matter and is soiled
by it. This forrn is suppressed and sublimated by Kumara who is the
symbol of Sakti quickened by Siva.

Rudrasarhhita

761

33. Those who listen to his glory with devotion and
faith will attain divine salvation hereafter after enjoying
great happiness here.

CHAPTER TWELVE

( The story of Siva and Parvali including that of Karttikeyd)

Brahma said: —

1. On seeing Taraka killed, Visnu and other gods, with
faces refulgent with pleasure, eulogised Karttikeya with
devotion.

The gods said: —

2. Obeisance to you of good features, obeisance to
you who confer auspiciousness on the universe, O kinsman of
the universe, obeisance be to you. Obeisance to you, O puri-
fier of the universe.

3. Obeisance to you, the slayer of the chief of the
Asuras. O lord, obeisance to the slayer of the Asura Bana.
Obeisance to the destroyer of Pralamba. Obeisance to you
of holy features. Obeisance to you, O son of Siva.

4. You alone are the creator, sustainer and annihilator
of the universe. You, born of firegod, be pleased. Your cosmic
image is identical with the universe. O son of Siva, kinsman
of the distressed, be pleased.

5. O lord, protector of the gods, O lord, save us always.
O merciful one, protector of gods, be pleased.

6. After killing the Asura Taraka along with his followers,
O great lord, the gods have been freed from adversities by you.

Brahma said: —

7. O sage, thus eulogised by Visnu and the other
gods, lord Kumara granted them fresh boons in order.

8. On seeing the mountains eulogising, the son of Siva
became very glad and spoke to them after granting boons.

Skanda said: —

9. All of you mountains will become worthy of being

762

Sivapurana

worshipped by the sages and resorted to by persons following
the paths of action and knowledge.

10. O mountains, at my word you will be assuming
the forms of phallic emblems, the special forms of Siva. There
is no doubt about it.

11. My maternal grandfather, the excellent mountain
Himavat, will become the fortunate bestower of fruits to
ascetics.

The gods said: —

12. By killing Taraka the lord of Asuras, and by
granting boons thus, all of us including the mobile and
immobile beings have been made happy by you.

13. Now, it behoves you to go to Kailasa with great
pleasure, to the abode of Siva in order to see your mother
and father Siva and Parvati.

Brahma said: —

14. After saying thus and obtaining his permission, Visnu
and other gods went jubilantly to that mountain along with
Kumara.

15. When the lord Kumara started to Kailasa, the
abode of Siva, sounds of "Victory" arose indicating great
auspiciousness.

16. Kumara got in the richly decorated aerial chariot
that shone above all the things.

17. O sage, with great pleasure, Visnu and I held
the chowries aloft above the head of the lord with alertness.

18. Indra and other gods, rendering suitable service to
Kumara went ahead joyously flanking him on all sides.

19. They reached Siva's mountain crying shouts of
victory to Siva, They entered the precincts with delight.
Auspicious sounds arose.

20. On seeing Siva and Parvati, Visnu and other gods
bowed to Siva with devotion and stood there humbly with
palms joined in reverence.

21. Kumara descended from the aerial chariot in all
humility and bowed joyously to Siva and Parvati seated on
a throne.

Rudrasarhhitd

763

22. O Narada, on seeing their beloved son Kumara,
the lordly couple Siva and Parvati rejoiced much.

23. The great lord got up, kissed him on the head

with joy, stroked him with the hand and placed him on
his lap.

24. With great affection, the highly delighted Siva
kissed the face of Kumara, the great lord and the slayer of
Taraka.

25. Parvati, too got up and placed him on her lap.
Keeping him close to her head with great affection she
kissed his lotus-like face.

26. O dear Narada, the joy of the couple — Siva and
Parvati who followed the worldly conventions, increased very
much.

27. There was great jubilation in the abode of Siva.
Everywhere the sound of shouts "Victory" and "Obeisance"
rose up.

28. O sage, then Visnu, other gods and the sages
bowed joyously to Siva. They eulogised Him.

The gods said: —

29. O lord of the gods, O bestower of protection to
your devotees, Obeisance, Obeisance to you many times, O
merciful lord Siva.

30. Wonderful indeed, O great lord, is your divine
sport, conferring happiness to all good men, O Siva, kinsman
to the distressed, O lord.

31. We are deluded in our intellects. We are igno-
rant of the procedure of your worship, O eternal one. We
do not know your invocation nor your wonderful course,
O lord.

32. Obeisance to you, the support of the waters of the
Ganga, to the deity possessed of the attributes, obeisance to
the lord of the gods, obeisance to Siva.

33. Obeisance to the bull-bannered lord Siva, obeisance
to the lord of Ganas; Obeisance to the lord of all. Obeisance
to the lord of the three worlds.

34. O lord, obeisance to you, the annihilator, the
sustainer and creator of the worlds. O lord of gods, obeisance
to you, the lord of three attributes and the eternal.

764

35. Obeisance to the lord free from attachment;
obeisance to Siva the great soul. Obeisance to the pure beyond
the world of matter, obeisance to the great, the unwasting.

36. Obeisance to you the god of death holding the
staff of punishment and noose in the hand. Obeisance to
the chief of the deities invoked by Vedic mantras. Obeisance
to you the hundred-tongued deity.

37. O lord, everything has come out of your body
whether past, present or future, whether mobile or immobile.

38. O lord, protect us always. O supreme lord, we
have sought refuge in you in every respect.

39. Obeisance to you, the blue-necked Rudra, of the
form of offering. Obeisance to you both possessed and devoid
of forms, the multiformed one.

40. Obeisance to Siva, the blue-necked, the wearer
of ashes on the limbs from the funeral pyre. Obeisance to
you Srikantha and Nilaslkhanda.

41. Obeisance to you saluted by all, saluted by the
Yogins. Obeisance to you, the great lord, whose feet are
worshipped by all.

42. You are Brahma among all the gods, you are
Nilalohita among Rudras; you are the soul in all living
beings; you are the Purusa of Sankhya system.

43. You are Sumeru among mountains, you are the
moon among the stars. You are Vasistha among the sages
and you are Indra among the gods.

44. You are Omkara among all Vedic passages; O
great lord, be our protector. For the benefit of the worlds
you nourish the Beings.

45. O great lord, O fortunate one, O scrutinizer of
the good and evil, O lord of gods, make us flourish as those
who carry out your instructions.

46. In your millions and millions of forms we are
unable to realize your true self. O lord of gods, obeisance
be to you.

Brahma said: —

47. After eulogising thus and bowing to him frequently,
Visnu and other gods stood before him after placing Skanda
ahead.

kudrasamhita

765

48. On hearing the eulogy of the gods, Siva, the lord
of all, the self-ruler was delighted. The compassionate lord
then laughed.

49. Siva the great Lsana, the kinsman of the distressed,
the goal of the good, became delighted and spoke to Visnu
and other important gods.

Siva said: —

50. O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, listen to my words
with attention. I am merciful. I shall by all means protect
you, the gods.

51. The lord of the three worlds is a slayer of the
wicked. He is favourably disposed to his devotees. He is the
creator, sustainer and annihilator of all yet free from
aberrations.

52. O excellent gods, whenever you are faced with
misery you shall worship me for your happiness.

Brahma said: —

53-54. O sage, thus ordered, Visnu, the other gods and
the sages bowed to Siva, Parvatl, and Kumara joyously, and
returned to their abodes in great delight singing the pleasant
glory of Siva, Parvatl and their son.

55. Siva stayed on the mountain joyously along with
Parvatl, the Ganas and Kumara. Lord Siva was much
pleased.

56. Thus O sage, the divine and pleasant story of
Kumara and Siva has been narrated to you. What else do
you wish to hear ?

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

{The birth of GaneSa)

Suta said : —

1 . On hearing the marvellously excellent story of the
slayer of Taraka thus, Narada was highly delighted and he
lovingly asked Brahma.

766 Sivapurana

Narada said : —

2. O lord of gods and people, O storehouse of Siva's
cult, the excellent story of Karttikeya, far better than nectar,
has been heard by me.

3. Now I wish to hear the excellent story of Ganesa,
the details of his divine nativity, auspicious of the auspicious.

Suta said : —

4. On hearing the words of Narada the great sage,
Brahma became delighted and replied to him remembering
Siva.

Brahma said : —

5. Due to the difference of Kalpas, the story of the
birth of Ganesa is told in different ways. According to one
account he is born of the great lord. His head looked at by
Sani 163 was cut off and an elephant's head was put on him.

6. Now we narrate the story of the birth of Ganesa in
Svetakalpa 161 when his head was cut off by the merciful Siva.

7. No suspicion need be entertained, O sage. Siva is
certainly the cause of enjoyment and protection. He is the
lord of all. Siva is possessed as well as devoid of attributes.

8. It is by His divine sport that the entire universe is
created, sustained and annihilated. O excellent sage, listen
to what is relevant to the context, with attention.

9. A long time had lapsed after the marriage of Siva
and His return to Kailasa that Ganesa was born.

10. Once the friends Jaya and Vijaya conferred with
Parvati and discussed.

11. All the Ganas of Rudra carry out the orders of

163. S'ani (the planet Saturn) is called the evil-eyed (KrfiradrS),
for his glance casts an evil effect. The present context refers to a legend
of Parvati Who proud of her son, Ganesa, asked Sani to look at him. Sani
looked and the child's head was burnt to ashes. Parvati felt greatly dis-
tressed and Brahma offered consolation advising her to replace the head
with the first she could find and that was an elephant's.

164. Svetakalpa, a short form of £vetavaraha Kalpa, is one of the.
thirty Kalpas. According to the Puranas the legends of one Kalpa arc
repeated in the other. In this process some modifications in the accounts
are bound to happen with the changes in the happenings. The legend of
Ganesa as recorded in this chapter belongs to Svetavarahakalpa. It is dis-
tinct from the one referred to above.

Riidrasarhhiia

Siva. They all, Nandin, Bhrngin and others are in a way
our own.

12. Pramathas are numerous. But none of them can
be called our own. They all stand at the portals, subservient
to Siva's behests.

13. They also may be called our own but our mind is
not in unison with them. Hence, O sinless lady, one, our
own must be created.

Brahma said : —

14. Goddess Parvati to whom this charming suggestion
was made by the two friends considered it wholesome and
resolved to carry it out.

15. Once when Parvati was taking her bath, Sadas"iva
rebuked Nandin and came into the inner apartment.

16. The mother of the universe, seeing the untimely
arrival of Siva in the midst of her bath and toilet stood up.
The beautiful lady was very shy then.

17. The goddess decided that her friend's suggestion
would be conducive to her good and was so enthusiastic.

18.. At the time when the incident occurred, Parvati,
the great Maya, the great goddess, thought as follows.

19. "There must be a servant of my own who will be
expert in his duties. He must not stray from my behest even
a speck."

20. Thinking thus the goddess created a person with
all the characteristics, out of the dirt 168 from her body.

21. He was spotless and handsome in every part of his
body. He was huge in size and had all brilliance, strength
and valour.

22-23. She gave him various clothes and ornaments.
She blessed him with benediction and said— "You are my
son. You are my own. I have none else to call my own".
Thus addressed the person bowed to her and said: —

Ganeia said : —

24. "What is your order ? I shall accomplish what
you command." Thus addressed, Parvati replied to her son.

165. According to this account, Ganesa was born of the scurf of
Parvati's body, without the inteivention of Siva.

Sivapurand

Partial? said : —

25. "O dear, listen to my words. Work as my gate-
keeper from today. You are my son. You are my own. It
is not otherwise. There is none-else who belongs to me.

26. O good son, without my permission, no one, by
any means, shall intrude my apartment. I tell you the
fact."

Brahma said: —

27. O sage, saying this, she gave him a hard stick.
On seeing his handsome features she was delighted.

28. Out of love and mercy she embraced and kissed
him. She placed him armed with a staff at her entrance as
the gatekeeper.

29. Then the son of the goddess, of great heroic
power, stayed at the doorway armed with a staff with a
desire to do what was good to her.

30. Thus placing her son at the doorway, ParvatT
began to take bath with her friends, unworried.

31. O excellent sage, at this very moment Siva who
is eagerly indulgent and an expert in various divine sports
came near the door,

32. Not knowing that he was lord Siva, the consort
of Parvati, Ganes"a said — ''O sir, without my mother's
permission you shall not go in now.

33. My mother has entered the bath. Where are you
going now ? Go away" saying thus, he took up his staff
to ward him off.

34. On seeing him Siva said "O foolish fellow, whom
are you forbidding ? O wicked knave, don't you know me ?
I am Siva, none else".

35. Thereupon Ganesa beat Siva with the staff. Siva
expert in various sports became infuriated and spoke to his
son thus.

Sida said: —

36. < c You are a fool, You do not know that I am
Siva, the husband of Parvati. O boy, I go in my own house.
Why do you forbid me?"

tiudrasaihhita

769

Brahma said : —

37. When lord Siva tried to enter the house, Ganesa
became infuriated, O brahmin, and struck him with his staff
once again.

38. Then Siva too became furious. He commanded
his own Ganas — "Who is this fellow here ? What is he doing?
O Ganas, enquire."

39. After saying this, the furious Siva stood outside
the house. The lord, following the worldly conventions, is
capable of various wonderful sports.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

( The Ganas argue and wrangle)

Brahma said: —

1. The infuriated Ganas of Siva at his bidding went
there and questioned the son of ParvatI who stood at the gate.

Siva's Gaiias said: —

2. "Who are you? Whence do you come? What do you
propose to do? If you have a desire to remain alive go
away from here."

Brahma said: —

3. On hearing their words, the son of ParvatI who was
armed with the staff spoke to the Ganas as follows : —

Ganes"a said : —

4. O "handsome fellows, who are you? Whence have
you come ? Go away. Why have you come here and why
do you stand in opposition to me ?"

Brahma said: —

5. On hearing his words, Siva's Ganas of great heroism
and arrogance laughingly spoke to one another.

6. After conferring with one another, the infuriated
Parsadas of Siva replied to Ganesa, the doorkeeper.

770

&ivapurat}d

Siva's Gaffas said: —

7. "Listen. We are the excellent Ganas of Siva. We
are his doorkeepers. We have come here to throw you out
at the bidding of lord Siva.

8. Considering you too, as one of the Ganas, we are
not going to kill you. Otherwise you would have been killed.
Better stay away yourself. Why do you court death ?"

Brahma said : — -

9. Though warned thus, Ganesa, the son of Parvati,
stood fearless. He did not leave his post at the door. He
rebuked Siva's Ganas.

10. After hearing his words, the Ganas of Siva went
back and informed Siva about his stand.

11. O sage, on hearing their words, lord Siva of
wonderful divine sports, following the worldly conventions
rebuked his Ganas.

Lord Siva said : —

12. "Who is this fellow ? What does he say ? He
is standing there haughtily as though he is our enemy. What
will that wicked knave do ? Certainly he wants to die.

13. Why ? Are you dastardly eunuchs to stand here
helplessly and complain to me about him. Let this new door-
keeper be thrown out."

Brahma said : —

14. Thus commanded by lord Siva of wonderful sports
the Ganas returned to the place and spoke to the door-
keeper.

Siva's Ganas said: —

15. O gatekeeper, who are you standing here ? Why
have you been stationed here ? Why don't you care for us.
How can you thus remain alive ?

16. We are here the duly appointed doorkeepers. What
are you saying ? A jackal sitting on a lion's seat wishes for
happiness.

17- O fool, you will roar only as long as you do not

kudrasathhita

771

feel the brunt of our attack. Erelong you will fall by feeling
the same."

18. Thus taunted by them, Ganela became furious and
took the staff with his hands and struck the Ganas even as
they continued to speak harsh words.

19. Then the fearless GaneSa, son of Parvati rebuked
the heroic Ganas of Siva and spoke as follows: —

The son of Parvati said: —

20. "Get away. Get away. Or I shall give you a fore-
taste of my fierce valour. You will be the laughing-stock of
all."

21. On hearing these words of Geneva, the Ganas of
Siva spoke to one another.

Siva's Ganas said: —

22. What shall be done ? Where shall we go ? Why
shall we not act ? Bounds of decency are observed by us.
He would not have acted thus, otherwise.

Brahma said: —

23. Then the Ganas of Siva went to Siva who was stand-
ing at the distance of a Krosa from Kailasa and spoke to him.

24. Siva ridiculed them all. The trident-armed great
lord of fierce temperament spoke to his Ganas who professed
to be heroes.

Siva said: —

25. "Hello, Ganas, impotent wretches, you profess to
be heroic but are never so. You are unfit to stand before me
and speak. If he is only taunted he will speak in similar tone
again.

26. Go and beat him. Some one among you may be
competent to do so. Why should I speak more ? He must
be driven away."

Brahma said: — •

27. O great sage, when rebuked thus by lord Siva, the
excellent Ganas went back and spoke to him.

772 iivapurdiia

Siva's Ganas said: —

28. Hello you boy there, listen. Why do you speak
so arrogantly ? You go away from here. If not, your death is
certain.

Brahma said: —

29. On hearing the words of Siva's servants the son of
Parvati became unhappy and thought "What shall I do?"

30. In the meantime, the goddess heard the noise of this
wrangle between the Ganas and the doorkeeper, then looked
at her friend and spo'ce. "Go and see."

31. The friend came to the door and saw them for a
moment. She understood the whole matter. She was delighted
and returned to Parvati.

32. O sage, coming back she reported the matter to
Parvati as it had occurred.

The friend said: — •

33. O great Goddess, the heroic Ganas of Siva arc
taunting and rebuking our own Gana who is standing at the
door.

34. How do these Ganas and Siva enter your apart-
ment suddenly without looking to your convenience ? This is
not good for you.

35. Even after undergoing the misery of rebuke etc.
he, our Gana, has done well in not allowing anyone in.

36. What is more ? They are arguing too. When the
argument has started, they cannot come in happily.

37. Now that they have started the argument let them
conquer him and enter victoriously. Not otherwise, my dear
friend.

38. When this man belonging to us is taunted, it
amounts to our being taunted. Hence, O gentle lady, you shall
not abandon your prestige of high order. .

39. Siva always squeezes you like a crab, O Sati. What
will he do now ? His pride will take a favourable turn for us.

Brahma said: —

40. Alas, being subservient to Siva's wish, Parvati stood
there for a moment.

Rudrasathhita

773

41. Then taking up a haughty mood she spoke to her-
self.

Parvati said: —

42. "Alas, he did not wait for a moment. Why should
he force his way in ? What shall be done now ? Or shall I
adopt a humble attitude.

43. What is to happen happens. What is done cannot
be altered ?" After saying this, Parvati sent her again lov-
ingly.

44. The friend came to the door and told Ganesa what
Parvati had said with affection.

The friend said: —

45. O gentle sir, well done. Let them not enter forc-
ibly. What are these Ganas before you ? Can they win a
person like you ?

46. Whether good or bad let your duty be done. If
you are conquered there will be no further enmity at all.

Brahma said: —

47. On hearing the words of the friend and his mother
Ganesvara became highly delighted, strengthened and lifted
up.

48. Girting up his loins, tying his turban firmly and
clapping his calves and thighs, he spoke fearlessly to all the
Ganas.

GaneSa said: —

49. I am the son of Parvati. You are the Ganas of
Siva. Both of us are thus equal. Let your duty be done,
now.

50. You are all doorkeepers. How is it that I am not ?
You are standing there and I am standing here. This is
certain.

51. When it is certain that you are standing here, you
must carry out the directions of Siva.

52. O heroes, now I have to carry out the orders of
Parvati faithfully. I have decided what is proper.

53. Hence, O Ganas of Siva, you shall listen with at-

774

Sivapurdna

tention. You shall not enter the apartment either forcibly or
humbly.

Brahma said: —

54. The Ganas when decisively told by Ganesa became
ashamed. They went to Siva. After bowing to him they
stood in front of him.

55. Then they acquainted him with that news of
wonderful nature. They joined their palms, stooped their
shoulders, eulogised Siva and stood in front of him.

56. On hearing the detailed news mentioned by his
Ganasj Siva replied following the worldly conventions.

Siva said: —

57. O Ganas, hear you all. A battle may not be a
proper course. You are all my own. He is Parvatl's Gana.

58. But if we are going to be humble, there is likely
to be a rumour: "Siva is subservient to his wife." O Ganas,
this is certainly derogatory to me.

59. The policy of meeting an action with another (Tit
for tat) is a weighty one. That single-handed Gana is a mere
boy. What valour can be expected of him ?

60. O Ganas, you are all experts in warfare and reputed
to be so in the world. You are my own men. How can you
forsake war and demean yourselves ?

61. How can a woman be obdurate especially with her
husband ? Parvati will certainly derive the fruit of what she
has done.

62. Hence, my heroic men, listen to my words with
attention. This war has to be fought by all means. Let what
is in store happen."

Brahma, said: — ■

63. O excellent sage, O brahmin, after saying thus,
Siva an adept in various divine sports became silent observing
the ways of the world.

Rudrasarhhitd

775

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

[GaneSa's battle)

Brahma said: —

1. When Siva told them thus, they came to a decisive
resolution. They got ready and went to Siva's palace.

2. On seeing the excellent Ganas, fully equipped for
war, coming, Games' a spoke thus to them.

Gapes' a said: —

3. Welcome to the leaders of Ganas, carrying out the
behests of Siva. I am only one and that too a mere boy
carrying out the directions of Parvati.

4. Yet let the goddess see the strength of her son. Let
Siva see the strength of his Ganas too.

5. The fight between the parties of Parvati and Siva is
the one between a strong army and a boy. You are all
experts in warfare and have fought in many a battle.

6. I have never fought in a battle before. I am a
mere boy. I am going to fight now. Still if you are put
to shame, it will be shameful to Siva and Parvati.

7. But that will not happen to me. If I am put to
shame, the contrary will happen to me. Parvati and Siva will
be put to shame but not I,

8. O leader of the Ganas, the war shall be fought after
realising this. You shall look up to your lord and I to my
mother.

9. What sort of a fight shall be fought ? Let what is
destined to occur, occur. No one in the three worlds can
ward it off.

Brahma said: —

10. When thus taunted and rebuked they rushed to-
wards him with big batons, decorating their arms and taking
up different kinds of weapons.

11. Gnashing their teeth, grunting and bellowing and
calling out "See, See", the Ganas rushed at him.

12. Nandin came first and caught hold of his leg. He

776

$ivapurat}a

pulled at it. Bhrngin then rushed at him and caught hold
of his other leg.

13. Before the Ganas of Siva had time to pull his legs
Ganes"a struck a blow at their hands and got his legs free.

14. Then seizing a big iron club and standing at the
doorway he smashed the ganas.

15. Some got their hands broken, others got their backs
smothered. The heads of others were shattered and the fore-
heads of some were crushed.

16. The knees of some were fractured, the shoulders
of others were blasted. Those who came in front were hit
in the chest.

17. Some fell on the ground, some fled in various
directions , some got their legs broken and some fled to Siva.

18-19- Now none among them stood face to face. Just
as deer flee to any direction on seeing a lion, the Ganas, who
were thousands in number fled in that manner. Then GaneSa
returned to doorway and stood there.

20. He was seen as the annihilator of all in the manner
of Yama, the terrible god of death at the end of a Kalpa.

21. At this time, urged by Narada, all the gods inclu-
ding Visnu and Indra came there.

22. Standing in front of Siva and bowing to him with
a desire to secure good for him they said — "O lord, be
pleased to command us.

23. You are the great Brahman, the lord of all, the
creator, the sustainer and the annihilator of all created things.
All are your servants.

24. You are intrinsically devoid of attributes but by
means of your sports you assume Rajasika, Sattvika and
Tamasika forms. O lord, what sort of sport you are indulg-
ing in, now ?"

Brahma said : —

25. O excellent sage, on hearing their words and seeing
the Ganas completely shattered, lord Siva told them every-
thing.

26. O excellent sage, Siva, the lord of all, the consort
of Parvati, then laughingly told me, Brahma.

Rudrasariihita

111

Siva said : —

27. O Brahma, listen. A boy is standing at the en-
trance to my house. He is very strong. He has a staff in
his hand. He prevents me from entering the house.

28. He strikes very dexterously. He has destroyed
many of my Parsadas. He has forcefully defeated my Ganas.

29. O Brahma, you alone should go there. This strong
boy shall be propitiated. O Brahma, you shall do everything
to bring him under control.

Brahma said : —

30. On hearing the words of the lord and unable to
know the reality, being deluded by ignorance, O dear, I went
near Ganesa accompanied by the sages.

31. On seeing me approaching, the powerful Ganesa
came to me very furiously and plucked my moustache and
beard.

32. "Forgive me. Forgive me, O lord. I have not
come for fighting. I am a brahmin and shall be blessed. I
have come to make peace and I will cause no harm."

33. While I said thus, O brahmin, the heroic Ganesa,
the boy of great valour uncommon to the boys took up the
iron club.

34. On seeing the powerful Ganesa seizing the iron
club I began to run away immediately.

35. The others too who were shouting "Go, Go" were
struck down with the iron club. Some fell themselves and
some were felled by him.

36. Some of them fled to Siva in a trice and inti-
mated to him the details of the incident.

37. On seeing them in that plight and on hearing the
news, Siva, an adept in sports became very angry.

38. He issued directives to Indra and other gods, to
the Ganas led by the six-faced Kumara and to goblins, ghosts
and spirits.

39. At the bidding of Siva they all desired to kill
Ganesa. Lifting up their weapons in a suitable manner they
came there from all directions.

40. Whatever weapon they had was hurled on Ganesa
with force.

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Sivapuraiia

41. There was a great hue and cry in all the three
worlds consisting of the mobile and immobile. The inhabitants
of the worlds were in a great fix and uncertainty.

42. "Brahma's life span is not over, but the whole uni-
verse is undergoing untimely destruction. Certainly it is due
to Siva's wish.

43. The sixfaced deity and the other gods who came
there failed to use their weapons effectively. They were very
much surprised.

44. In the meantime, goddess, the mother of the uni-
verse, of special knowledge, came to know of the entire in-
cident and was very furious.

45. O great sage, the goddess created two Saktis 166 then
and there for the assistance of her own Gana.

46. O great sage, one Sakti assumed a very fierce form
and stood there opening her mouth as wide as the cavern of
a dark mountain.

47. The other assumed the form of lightning. She
wore many arms. She was a huge and terrible goddess ready
to punish the wicked.

48. The weapons hurled by the gods and the Ganas
were caught in the mouth and hurled back at them.

49. None of the weapons of the gods was seen any-
where around the iron club of Ganesa. This wonderful feat
was performed by them.

50. A single boy stirred and churned the vast impass-
able army in the same manner as great mountain 167 churned
the ocean of milk formerly.

51. Indra and other gods were struck by him, single-
handed. The Ganas of Siva became agitated and distressed
then.

52. Gasping frequently for their breath, being utterly

166. One is the terrible aspect of the Goddess personified as Kali,
Candl and Bhairavi, the other a beautiful yellow form named Durga
with several hands and riding on a tiger in a fierce and minacing
attitude.

167. The term 'girivara' the best of the mountain refers to the
fabulous mountain Meru that was used for churning the ocean.

Rudrasarhhitd

779

shaken by his blows they gathered together and spoke to one
another.

The gods and Ganas said: —

53. "What shall be done? Where should we go ? The
ten directions have become visible. He is whirling the iron
club right and left."

Brahma said: —

54-55. In the meantime the excellent nymphs came
there with flowers and sandal paste in their hands. You and
other gods who were eager to witness the fight came there.
O excellent sage, the excellent pathway of the firmament
was entirely filled by them.

56. Seeing the battle they were much surprised. Such
a battle had never been witnessed by them before.

57. The earth with all the oceans quaked. As a result
of the violent battle even mountains fell down.

58. The sky whirled with the planets and the stars.
Everything was agitated. The gods fled. The Ganas too did
likewise.

59. The valorous sixfaced deity alone did not flee.
The great warrior stopped everyone and stood in front.

60. But the Ganas fought in vain with the two Saktis.
The weapons of the gods and the Ganas were broken and
hence withdrawn by them.

61. Those that tarried went to Siva. All the gods and
Ganas fled.

62. Those who went in a body to Siva bowed to him
again and again and asked Siva immediately "O lord who is
that excellent Gana ?"

63. We have heard that battles used to be fought
formerly. Even now many battles are being fought. But
never was such a battle seen or heard.

64. O lord, let this be pondered over a little. Other-
wise no victory is possible. O lord, you alone are the
saviour of the universe. There is no doubt about it."

Brahmd said: —

65. On hearing their words, the furious Rudra became

780

Sivapurana

more furious and went there along with his Ganas.

66. The entire army of the gods along with the discus-
bearing Visnu shouted in jubilation and followed Siva.

67. In the meantime, bowing to Siva, the lord of the
gods with palms joined in reverence, O Narada, you spoke as
follows.

Narada said ; —

68. "O lord of the gods, please listen to my words. You
are the all-pervading lord and expert in various sports.

69. By indulging in a great sport, the arrogance of the
Ganas has been removed by you. O Sankara, the impudence
of the gods too has been removed by giving this (GaneSa)
much strength.

70. O lord Siva, your own wonderful strength has been
known to the worlds, you who independently remove the
haughtiness of everyone.

71. O lord who are favourably disposed to your devo-
tees, do not indulge in that sport. Please honour your own
Ganas and the gods suitably and make them nourish.

72. O bestower of the region of Brahman, please do
not treat him leisurely but kill him in your play now." O
Narada, after saying this, you vanished from the place.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

[The head of GaneSa is chopped off during the battle)

Brahma said: —

1. O Narada, on hearing your words, the great lord
who grants benediction to his devotees became desirous of
fighting with the boy.

2. He called Visnu and consulted him. Then with a
great army and the gods, He, the three-eyed lord, stood face to
face with him.

3. After remembering the lotuslike feet of Siva, the

tludrasathhita

781

gods possessing great strength, kindly glanced at by Siva and
highly jubilant, fought with him.

4. Visnu of great strength, valour and skill and pos-
sessing great divine weapons and Siva's form fought with him.

5. Ganesa hit all the chief gods with his staff. He hit
Visnu too, all of a sudden. The hero had been conferred
great strength by the Saktis.

6. O sage, all the gods including Visnu were hit by
him with the stick. They were turned back with their strength
sapped.

7. O sage, after fighting for a long time along with
the army and seeing him terrific, even Siva was greatly surprised.

8. Thinking within himself "He has to be killed only
by deception and not otherwise" he stayed in the midst of the
army.

9-10. When lord Siva who though devoid of attributes
had assumed the attributive form was seen in the battle, when
Visnu too had come thither, the gods and Ganas of Siva were
highly delighted. They joined together and became jubilant.

1 1 . Then Ganesa the heroic son of Sakti following the
course of heroes, at first worshipped (i.e struck) Visnu with
his staff, Visnu who confers happiness to all.

12-13. "I shall cause him delusion. Then let him be
killed by you, O lord. Without deception he cannot be
killed. He is of Tamasika nature and inaccessible." Thinking
thus and consulting Siva, Visnu secured Siva's permission and
was engaged in the activities of delusion.

14. O sage, on seeing Visnu in that manner, the two
Saktis handed over their power to Ganesa and became sub-
merged.

15. When the two Saktis became submerged, GaneSa
with more strength infused in him hurled the iron club in
the place where Visnu stood.

16. Visnu strenuously dodged the same after remem-
bering Siva, the great lord, favourably disposed towards His
devotees.

17. Seeing his face on a side, the infuriated Siva took
up his trident with a desire to fight and came there.

18. Parvati's son of great strength and heroism, saw

782"

Siva arrived there with desire to fight him to a finish, the
great lord with the trident in his hand.

19. Ganesa, the great hero, who had been rendered
more powerful by Parvati and the Saktis remembered the
lotuslike feet of his mother and struck him in his hand with
his Sakti.

20. Thereupon the trident fell from the hand of Siva of
supreme soul. Seeing this, Siva the source of great enjoyment
and protection took up his bow Pinaka.

21. Ganesa felled that to the ground by means of his
iron club. Five of his hands too were struck. He took up
the trident with the other five hands.

22. ' c Alas, this has been more distressing even to me.
What may not happen to the Ganas ? Siva who followed the
worldly conventions cried out like this.

23. In the meantime the heroic GaneSa endowed with
the surplus power bestowed by the Saktis struck the gods and
the Ganas with his iron club.

24. The gods and the Ganas smothered by that wonder-
ful striker with the iron club went away to the ten directions.
None of them remained in the battlefield.

25-27. On seeing Ganesa, Visnu said ~-"He is blessed.
He is a great hero of great strength. He is valorous and fond
of battle. Many gods, Danavas, Daityas, Yaksas, Gandharvas,
and Raksasas I have seen. In the entire extent of the
three worlds, none of them can equal Ganesa in regard to
brilliance, form, features, valour and other qualities."

28. Ganesa, son of the Saktis whirled the iron club
and hurled it at Visnu even as he was saying so.

29. After remembering the lotus-like feet of Siva, Visnu
took up his discus and split the iron club by means of discus.

30. Ganesa hurled the piece of iron club at Visnu
which was caught by the bird Garucla and rendered futile.

31. Thus for a long time the two heroes Visnu and
Ganesa fought with each other.

32. Again the foremost among heroes, the son of
Parvati took up his staff of unrivalled power remembering
Siva and struck Visnu with it.

33. Struck with that unbearable blow he fell on the
ground. But he got up, quickly and fought with Parvati's son.

kudrasarhhiti

783*

34. Securing this opportunity, the Trident-bearing deity
came there and cut off his head with his trident.

35. O Narada, when the head of Ganesa was cut off,
the. armies of the gods and the Ganas stood still.

36. You, Narada, then came and acquainted Parvati
with the matter— "O proud woman, listen. You shall not
cast off your pride and prestige."

37. O Narada, saying this, you, fond of quarrels, vanis-
hed from there. You are the unchanging sage and a follower
of the inclinations of Siva.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

{The Resuscitation of GaneSa)

Narada said: —

1 . O Brahma, of great intellect, please narrate. When
the entire news was heard what did the great goddess
Parvati do? I wish to hear all in fact.

Brahma said: —

2. O foremost among sages, listen. I shall mention
the story of the mother of the universe in the manner that
it happened afterwards.

3. When Ganesa was killed, the Ganas were very
jubilant. They played on Mrdangas and Patahas.

4. After cutting off the head of Ganesa even as Siva
became sorry, goddess Parvati became furious, O great
sage.

5. "O what shall I do ? Where shall I go ? Alas,
great misery has befallen me. How can this misery, this
great misery be dispelled now?

6. ''My son has been killed by all the gods and the
Ganas. I shall destroy them all or create a deluge."

7. Lamenting thus, the great goddess of all the
worlds angrily created in a moment hundreds and thousands
of Saktis.

8. Saktis who were thus created, bowed to Parvati,

?84

the mother of the universe and blazing brilliantly spoke —
"O mother, be pleased to command."

9. O great sage, on hearing that, Parvati, the Sakti of
Siva, the Prakrti, the great Maya, spoke to them all in great
fury.

The goddess said: —

10. O Saktis, O goddesses, now a great deluge shall
be created by you at my bidding. You need not hesitate
in this regard.

11. "O friends, devour forcibly all these sages, gods,
Yaksas, Raksasas belonging to us and others."

Brahma said: —

12. On being commanded by her, the infuriated
Saktis got ready to destroy the gods and others.

13. Just as the fire consumes dry grass so also these
Saktis attempted to destroy.

14-15. Leaders of Ganas or Visnu, Brahma or Siva,
Indra or Kubera, Skanda or the Sun — Saktis began to
destroy them. Wherever one looked, Saktis were present.

16. Karalls (the Terrific) , Kubjakas (the hump-
backed), Khafijas (the lame), Lambaslrsas (the tall-headed)
the innumerable Saktis took up the gods with their hands
and threw them in their own mouths.

17-18. On seeing that Siva, Brahma, Visnu, Indra,
the other gods, Ganas and the sages began to doubt what
the Goddess Parvati would be doing, whether she would
create an untimely dissolution. Their hopes and aspirations
for life were quelled.

19. They all gathered together and discussed — "What
shall be done now? Let us ponder." Discussing thus they
spoke to one another.

20. "Only when the goddess Parvati is pleased can
there be a relief; not otherwise, even with our maximum
efforts.

21. Even Siva who is an expert in different sports
and is deluding us all, seems distressed like an ordinary
man.

Rudrasathhita

785

22. When the hips of all the gods are broken and
Parvati is fiery in rage, none of them dare stand before her.

23-24. Whether a person belonging to her or to
others, whether a god, a demon, a Gana, a guardian of the
quarters, a Yaksa, a Kinnara, a Sage, Brahma, Visnu or
even lord &va himself none could stand before Siva.

25. On seeing her dazzling brilliance, burning all
round, all of them were frightened and they stayed far
away.

26. In the meantime, O sage Narad a, you of divine
vision came there for the happiness of the gods and Ganas.

27. After bowing to me, Brahma, Visnu and Siva
and discussing jointly, he said — "Let us think and act
together."

28. The gods then discussed with you of noble soul
"How could our misery be quelled." They then said.

29. As long as the goddess Parvati does not favour
us there will be no happiness. No suspicion need be enter-
tained in this matter.

30. You and other sages went to Parvati in order to
appease her anger. They then propitiated her.

31. They bowed to her again and again. They
eulogised her with many hymns. They tried to please her
with devotion and at the behest of the gods and Ganas
spoke thus.

The celestial sages said: —

32. O Mother of the universe, obeisance to you.
Obeisance to you, O Siva.. Obeisance to you. O Candika.
Obeisance to you, Kalyani.

33. O mother, you alone are the primordial Sakti.
You are the eternal cause of creation. You alone are the
sustaining power. You alone are the cause of dissolution.

34. O goddess, be pleased. Spread peace. Obeisance
be to you. O goddess, the three worlds are agitated by
your fury.

Brahma said : —

35. The great goddess Parvati thus eulogised by you

786

Sivapurand

and other sages glanced at them furiously. She did not
say anything.

36. Then the sages bowed at her lotus like feet and
spoke to her in low voice with devotion joining their palms
in reverence.

The sages said: —

37. O goddess, forgive, forgive. The final dissolution
seems near at hand. Your lord is standing here. O mother,
you see him.

38. What are we, the gods, Visnu, Brahma and others?
We are only your subjects. We stand here with palms
joined in reverence.

39. O great goddess, our guilts shall be forgiven.
We are agitated and distressed. O Parvati give us peace.

Brahma said: —

40. After saying this, the agitated and distressed sages
stood in front of her with palms joined in reverence.

41. On hearing their words Parvati was pleased and
she replied to the sages with her mind full of compassion.

The goddess said: —

42-43. If my son regains life there may not be further
annihilation. If you can arrange for him an honourable
status and position among you as the chief presiding officer,
there may be peace in the world. Otherwise you will never
be happy.

Brahma said: —

44. Thus warned, you and other sages returned and
intimated to all the gods everything in detail.

45. On hearing that, Indra and other gods joined
their palms in reverence and piteously intimated to Siva
what had transpired there.

46. On hearing what the gods said, Siva spoke thus —
"It shall be done accordingly so that there may be peace
over all the worlds."

47. "You shall go to the northern direction and what-

Rudrasarhhita

787

ever person you meet at first you cut off his head and fit
it to this body."

Brahma said: —

48. Then they carried out Siva's behests and acted
accordingly. They brought the headless body of Ganesa and
washed it well.

49. They paid homage to it and started towards the
north. It was a single-tusked elephant that they met.

50-51. They took the head and fitted it to the body.
After joining it, the gods bowed to Siva, Visnu and Brahma
and spoke — "What has been ordered by you has been
carried out by us. Let the task left incomplete be perform-
ed now."

52. Then the Parsadas shone happily. After hearing
those words they awaited eagerly what Siva would say.

53. Then Brahma, Visnu and other gods spoke after
bowing to lord Siva who is free from the ill effects of the
attributes.

54. They said : — "Since we all are born out of your
brilliant Energy let that Energy come into it by the recita-
tion of the Vedic mantras.

55. Saying so, they jointly sprinkled the holy water,
invoked by the mantras on that body after remembering
Siva.

56. Immediately after the contact of the holy water
the boy was resuscitated to life and joined with conscious-
ness. As Siva willed, the boy woke up as from a sleep.

57. He was handsome, extremely comely. He had
the face of an elephant. He was red-complexioned. He
was delighted with face beaming. He was brilliant and had
fine features.

58. O great sage, on seeing the son of Parvati resusci-
tated to life, they all rejoiced and their miseries came to
an end.

59. They showed him delightfully to the goddess. On
seeing her restored to life, the goddess was greatly delighted.

788

Sivapurdna

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

( Ganeia crowned as the chief of Gams)

Narada said : —

1. O lord of subjects, when the son of Parvati was
resuscitated and seen by the goddess, what happened then?
Please narrate to me now.

Brahma said: —

2. O great sage, when the son of Parvati was
resuscitated and seen by the goddess, listen to what happened
there. I shall narrate the jubilation that ensued.

3. O sage, that son of Parvati was resuscitated. He
was free from distress and perturbation. Then he was
crowned by the gods and the leaders of Ganas.

4. On seeing her son, Parvati was highly delighted.
Taking htm up with both her hands she embraced him
joyously.

5. She then lovingly gave him different clothes and
ornaments.

6. He was honoured by the goddess who bestowed all
Siddhis on him and touched him with her hand that removes
all distress.

7. After worshipping her son, and kissing his face,
she granted him boons with affection and said — "You have
had great distress since your very birth.

8. You are blessed and contented now. You will
receive worship before all the gods. You will be free from
distress.

9. Vermillion is visible on your face now. Hence you
will be worshipped with vermillion by all men always.

10-12. All achievements certainly accrue to him who
performs your worship with flowers, sandal paste, scents,
auspicious food offerings Nirajana rites, betel leaves,
charitable gifts, circumambulations and obeisance. All kinds
of obstacles will certainly perish.

13. After saying this, she worshipped her good son
with various articles, once again.

14. O Brahmin, then with the graceful blessings of

Rudrasaihhita

789

ParvatI, instantly peace reigned upon gods and particularly
on the Ganas.

15. In the meantime, Indra and other gods eulogised
and propitiated Siva joyously and brought him devoutly near
ParvatI.

16. After pleasing her they placed the boy in her lap
for the happiness of the three worlds.

17. Placing his lotus-like hand on his head, Siva told
the gods. "This is another son of mine."

18-19. Getting up and bowing to Siva, ParvatI, Visnu
and me, Ganesa stood in front of Narada and other sages
and said — "My guilt shall be forgiven. Arrogance is the
characteristic of Man's nature."

20. We three Siva, Visnu and I said to the gods
simultaneously with pleasure, after granting him excellent
boons

21. "O great gods, just as we three are worshipped in
all the three worlds, so also he shall be worshipped by all
of you."

22. We are the offsprings of primordial nature. He
is also the same and hence worthy of worship. He is the
remover of all obstacles and the bestower of the fruits of
all rites.

23. He shall be worshipped first and we shall be
worshipped afterwards. If he is not worshipped, we too are
not worshipped.

24. If the other deities are worshipped when he is
not worshipped, the fruit of that rite will be lost. There is
no doubt in this matter.

25-26. After saying this we worshipped him. Siva
worshipped Ganesa with various articles of worship. Visnu
worshipped him afterwards. I, Brahma, and ParvatI too
worshipped him. He was then worshipped by all the gods
and Ganas with great j oy.

27. In order to gratify ParvatI, Ganesa was proclaimed
as the presiding officer by all, Brahma, Visnu, Siva and
others.

28. Again, with a joyful mind, several boons were
granted by ParvatI to him, always favourable to all in the
world.

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Stvapurana

Siva said : —

29. "O son of ParvatI, I am pleased, there is no doubt
about it. When I am pleased the entire universe is pleased.
None will be against the same.

30. Since, even as a boy you showed great valour as
Parvati's son, you will remain brilliant and happy always.

31. Let your name be the most auspicious in the
matter of quelling obstacles. Be the presiding officer of all
my Ganas and worthy of worship now."

32. After saying this, Siva laid down several modes
of worship and granted benedictions instantaneously.

33. The gods, the Ganas and the celestial damsels
sang songs joyously, danced and played on instruments.

34. Another boon was granted to Ganesa by the
delighted Siva of great soul.

35-37. O Ganesa, you are born in the first Prahara
on the fourth day in the dark half of the Bhadra mouth at
the auspicious hour of the moonrise. Since your form mani-
fested itself from the good mind of Parvati, your excellent
Vrata shall be performed on that Tithi itself or beginning
from that day. It will be very auspicious and conducive to
the achievement of all Siddhis.

38. At the bidding of us both the Vrata shall be
performed till the fourth day at the end of a year.

39. Let those who yearn for unequalled happiness in
the world worship you devoutly in various ways on the fourth
day in accordance with the rules.

40. On the fourth day of Laksmi in the month of
MargaSIrsa he shall perform early morning ablution and
entrust the Vrata to the brahmins.

41. He shall perform worship with the DQrva grass
and observe fast. After a Prahara has elapsed in the night
the devotee shall take bath and worship.

42-43. The idol shall be made of metal, coral, white
Arka flowers or clay. It shall be installed and worshipped
by the devotee with all purity, with scents of various kinds,
divine sandal paste and flowers.

44-45. A handful of Durva grass having three knots
and without roots shall be used for worship. The shoots
shall be hundred and one in number. With twentyone the

Rudrasarhhita

791

idol shall be worshipped. Ganesa shall be adored with
incense, lamps and different kinds of food-offerings.

46. After worshipping you with various articles of
worship like betel etc. and eulogising you with hymns, the
devotee shall worship the crescent moon.

47. Afterwards, he shall feed the brahmins joyously
with sweets with due honour. He himself shall take sweets
and avoid salt.

48. Then the rites shall formally be dismissed. Then
he shall remember Ganesa. Thus the Vrata shall be conclu-
ded auspiciously.

49. When thus the Vrata is duly completed in a year,
the devotee shall perform the rite of formal dismissal for the
completion of the Vrata.

50. At my bidding twelve brahmins shall be fed.
After placing a jar your image shall be worshipped.

51. After making the eight-petalled lotus diagram on
the ground in accordance with Vedic injunctions a sacrifice
shall be performed by the liberal people who have no disin-
clination to spend money.

► 52. Two women and two students shall be worshipped
and fed in front of the idol duly.

53. The devotee shall keep awake at night and per-
form worship in the morning. After that the rites of formal
dismissal with the mantra "Kseraaya Punaragamanaya Ga."
(For welfare and return again) shall be performed.

54. The benediction as well as good wishes shall be
received from the boy. In order to make the Vrata complete,
handfuls of flowers shall be offered.

55. After prostrations, various routines shall be carried
on. He who performs Vratas like this can secure the
desired fruits.

56. O GaneSa, he who performs your worship upto
his ability, with faith, shall derive the fruit of all desires.

5 7. The devotee shall worship you, the lord of Ganas
with vermillion, sandal paste, raw rice grains and Ketaka
flowers as well as with other services.

58. They who devoutly worship you with acts of service
will achieve success. Their obstacles will be quelled.

59. These Vratas shall be performed by the people

.792

Sivapurana

of all castes, particularly by women as well as kings aiming
and beginning to be prosperous and flourishing.

60. He will certainly derive whatever he desires.
Hence you shall always be served by him whoever he is who
desires fruits.

Brahma said: —

61-62. When this was mentioned by Siva to Ganesa
of great soul, O sage, the gods 3 the sages and the Ganas,
favourites of Siva said ''So be it" and worshipped Ganesa
according to prescribed rules.

63. All the Ganas, particularly bowed to Ganesa and
adored him respectfully with various articles.

64. O great sage, how can I describe even with my
four mouths the indescribable delight of Parvatl.

65. The divine drums were sounded. The celestial
damsels danced. The Gandharva chiefs sang. Flowers were
showered upon him.

66. -When Ganesa was installed, the whole universe
attained peace and normalcy. There was great jubilation.
All miseries ended.

67. O Narada, Parvatl and Siva rejoiced in particular.
Good and plentiful auspiciousness was conducive to happi-
ness everywhere.

68-69. The gods and the sages, who had come there,
returned at the bidding of Siva praising Parvatl and Ganesa
again and again, eulogising Siva and saying "O what a
battle !"

70. When Parvatl became free from fury, Siva and
Parvatl behaved as before.

71. With a desire for the welfare of the worlds, the
great deity relaxing in his own soul and engaged in the
activities of the devotees conferred different kinds of
happiness.

72. Both Visnu and I took leave of Siva and after
paying homage to both Parvatl and Siva returned to our
abodes.

73. O holy sage Narada, after singing the glory of
Parvatl and Siva and taking leave of them you too returned
to your abode.

Rudrasarhhita

793

74. Thus requested by you, I have narrated the
glorious story of Parvati and Siva along with that of Ganesa
with great reverence.

75. Whoever hears this narrative auspiciously with pure
mind shall have everything auspicious and be the abode of
auspiciousness.

76. The childless will get a son, the indigent wealth;
the seeker of a wife will get a wife and the seeker of issues
will get children.

77. The sick will regain health; the miserable will
have good fortune. The sonless, impoverished, banished wife
will be reunited with her husband.

78-79. The sorrowing will be relieved of sorrow,
undoubtedly. The house that contains this story shall
certainly be auspicious. He who listens to this narrative at
the time of travel or on holy occasions, with a pure mind
shall get all desires, thanks to the grace of lord Ganesa.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

(Ganapati's marriage)

Narada said: —

1. O dear father, the excellent story of the nativity
and the divine conduct embellished by valour, of Ganeia
has been heard well.

2. O dear father, O lord of gods, what happened
thereafter ? Please narrate it. The great glory of Parvati and
Siva confers great delight.

Brahma said: —

3. O excellent sage, you have asked well with a sym-
pathetic mind. Listen attentively, O excellent sage, I shall
narrate.

4. O excellent brahmin, seeing frequently the divine
sports of both the sons, Parvati and Siva had their love
increased.

794

Sivapurana

5. The happiness of the parents knew no bounds.
The son too used to sport in joy and love.

6. O great sage, the sons rendered great service to
their parents with great devotion.

7. The love and affection of the parents towards the
six-faced lord and Ganesa increased to a great extent like
the moon in the bright half of the month.

8. O celestial sage, once the loving parents Parvati
and Siva held a secret talk and discussion.

9. They thought that the two sons had attained to
marriageable age and how best their marriage should be
celebrated now.

10. The sixfaced lord Karttikeya was their great
beloved son. GaneSa too was likewise. Thinking thus they
were worried as well as delighted.

11. O sage, coming to know of their parents' opinion,
the sons too were eager to get married.

12. "I shall marry, I shall marry" saying thus to
each other they always quarrelled with each other.

13. The couple, the rulers of the worlds, on hearing
their words, were very much surprised, following the worldly
conventions.

14. A wonderful expedient was devised by them after
thinking about the course to be followed in the celebration
of their marriage.

15. Once they called the sons to them and spoke as
follows.

Siva and Parvati said: —

16. O good sons, we have framed the rules conducive
to your happiness. Listen lovingly. We shall tell you the
truth.

17. Both of you are good sons and equal in our eyes.
There is no difference. Hence a condition that is beneficial to
both of you has been made.

18. The auspicious marriage will be celebrated of that
boy who comes here first after going round the entire earth.

Brahma, said: —

19. On hearing their words, the powerful Kumara

Rudrasarhhita

795

started immediately from the fixed point in order to go round
the earth.

20. Ganesa of excellent intellect stood there itself
after pondering in his mind frequently with his keen
intellect.

21. "What shall be done? Where am I to go ? I
cannot cross the earth. At best it may be possible to go a
Krosa. I cannot go beyond it.

22. What avails that happiness which is achieved after
going round the earth ?" Please listen to what Ganesa did
after thinking thus.

23. He performed the ceremonial ablution and returned
home. He then spoke to his father and mother.

Ganefa said: —

24. For your worship two seats have I placed here.
Please be seated, dear parents. Let my desire be fulfilled.

Brahma said: —

25. On hearing his words, Parvati and Siva sat on the
seats for receiving worship.

26. They were worshipped by him and circumambu-
lated seven times and bowed too seven times.

27. Joining his palms in reverence and eulogising his
parents agitated by love and affection, many times, GaneSa
the ocean of intelligence, spoke thus.

Ganefa said: —

28. cc O mother, O father, you please listen to my
weighty words. My auspicious marriage shall be celebrated
quickly."

Brahma said: —

29. On hearing the words of the noble-minded Ganesa,
the parents spoke to him, the storehouse of great intellect.

Siva and Parvati said : —

30. You shall circumambulate the earth with all its
forests. Kumara has already gone. You too start and
return first.

796

Sivapurana

Brahma said: —

31. On hearing the words of his parents, Ganesa
spoke immediately and furiously but with some restraint.

GaneSa said: —

32. O mother, O father, you two are intelligent and
embodied virtue. Hence O excellent ones, you may be
pleased to hear my virtuous words.

33. The earth has been circumambulated by me
frequently, for seven times. Why then, my parents should
say thus?

Brahma said: —

34. On hearing his words, the sportively inclined
parents, following the worldly conventions spoke to him
thus —

The parents said: —

35. "O son, when was the great earth circumambulated
by you, the earth consisting of seven continents 108 extending
to the oceans and consisting of vast jungles?

Brahma said: —

36. O sage, on hearing the words of ParvatI and Siva,
Ganesa, the storehouse of great intellect spoke thus.

Ganefa said : —

37. By worshipping you, ParvatI and Siva, I have
intelligently circumambulated the earth extending to the
oceans.

38. Is it not the verdict of the Vedas or the Sastras
or any other sacred code ? Is it true or otherwise ?

39. "He who worships his parents and circumambu-
lates them, will certainly derive the fruit and merit of
circumambulating the earth.

40. He who leaves his parents at home and goes on a
pilgrimage incurs the sin of their murder.

168. On the seven continents, see S. M. Ali, Geography of the.
Puranas, Ch. II.

Rudrasa rhhitS

41. The holy centre of a son consists of the lotus-like
feet of his parents. The other holy centres can be reached
only after going a long distance.

42. This holy centre is near at hand, easily accessible
and a means of virtue. For a son and wife, the auspicious
holy centre is in the house itself."

43. These things are mentioned frequently in the Sastras
and the Vedas. Now, are they going to be falsified by you?

44. If so, your very forms will come false. Even the
Vedas will become false. There is no doubt about it.

45. Let my auspicious marriage be celebrated and that
too very quickly. Otherwise let the Vedas and Sastras be
declared false.

46. Of the two alternatives whatever is excellent shall
be followed, O parents, embodied virtues!

Brahma said: —

47. Saying thus, Ganes"a of excellent intellect, of great
wisdom and foremost among intelligent persons assumed silence.

48. On hearing his words, Parvati and Siva, the rulers
of the universe, were very much surprised.

49. Then, Siva and Parvati praised their son who was
clever and intelligent and spoke to him who had spoken the
truth.

Siva and Parvati said : —

50. O son, you are a supreme soul and your thoughts
are pure. What you have said is true and not otherwise.

51. When misfortune comes, if a person is keenly in-
telligent, his misfortunes perish even as darkness perishes
when the sun rises.

52. He who has intelligence possesses strength as well.
How can he who is devoid of intellect have strength ? The
proud lion was drowned in a well with a trick by a little
hare. 169

53. Whatever has been mentioned in the Vedas, Sastras
and Puranas for a boy, all that has been performed by you,
namely, the observance of virtue.

l6g. This verse introduces the story of the lion and the hare in the
Paiicatantra.

§ivapurana

54. What has been executed by you shall be done by
anyone. We have honoured it. It will not be altered now.

Brahma said : —

55. After saying this and appeasing Ganesa, the ocean
of intelligence, they resolved to perform his marriage.

CHAPTER TWENTY

(Th celebration of Ganes'a' s marriage)
Brahma said: —

1 . In the meantime Prajapati ViSvarupa became delight-
ed and happy on knowing their intention.

2. Prajapati Vi/varupa had two daughters of divine
features. They were famous as Siddhi and Buddhi. 170 They
were exquisite in every part of their body.

3. The lord Siva and Parvatl, jubilantly celebrated
the marriage of GaneSa with them.

4. The delighted gods attended their marriage as desired
by Siva and Parvatl.

5. Visvakarman made all arrangements for the marriage.
The sages and the gods were full of great joy.

6. The happiness that Ganes'a derived by virtue of this
marriage, O sage, cannot be adequately described.

7. After some time, the noble Ganesa begot two sons,
one each of his wives. They were endowed with divine features.

8. The son Ksema was born to Siddhi. The highly
brilliant son Labha was born to Buddhi.

9. While Ganes'a was enjoying the inconceivable
happiness, the second son returned after circumambulating
the earth.

10. Thereupon he was addressed by Narada, the great
soul. "I am speaking the truth, no lies. I am not actuated
by deception or rivalry.

11. What has been done by Siva and Parvatl your

170. Siddhi and Buddhi were the two daughters of the progenitor
Viivarupa and these were married to GaijeiSa. Siddhi gave birth to
Ksema and Labha was born of Buddhi.

kudrasarhhitd

parents, no other person in the world will ever do. Truth.
It is the truth I am speaking.

12. After driving you out under the pretext of circum-
ambulating the earth, they have celebrated the excellent and
auspicious marriage of Ganes"a.

13. By this marriage that was celebrated, Ganesa has
obtained two wives joyously. They are the excellent daughters
of Prajapati Visvarupa.

14. He has begot of his two wives of auspicious body
two sons, Ksema of Siddhi and Labha of Buddhi. They
bestow happiness on every one.

15. Begetting two sons of auspicious features of his wives
Ganesa is continuously enjoying happiness as conceived by
your parents.

16. The entire earth consisting of oceans and jungles
has been traversed by you due to their deceptive behest. O
dear, this is the result of that.

17. O dear, consider. If parents begin to deceive or
particularly if our masters begin to deceive, won't others also
begin to deceive.

18. Your parents have not done well. Just ponder over
it. I don't think their action has been good.

19. If mother were to poison her son, if father were to
sell his son, if the king were to confiscate the assets of his sub-
jects what can be said and to whom ?

20. O dear, an intelligent peace-loving person shall
never look at the face of the person who has committed this
harmful deed.

21. This policy has been mentioned in the Vedas,
Smrtis and sacred texts. It has been intimated to you now.
Do as you wish."

Brahma said'. —

22. O Naxada, following the mental process of lord
Siva, you spoke these words to Kumara and then kept quiet.

23. After bowing to his father, the infuriated Skanda went
to the Kraunca mountain 171 though forbidden by his parents.

171. This famous hill represents part of the Kailasa on which the
Manasarovara is situated. See Note 78 P. 629.

800

24. "Even when forbidden by us why do you go ?"
Although he was prevented by saying this, he went away
saying "No".

25. "O parents, I shall not stay here even a moment
when deception has been practised on me eschewing affection
towards me."

26. O sage, he went away saying so. Even today he
is staying there removing the sin of all by his very vision.

27. Ever since that day, O celestial sage, the son of
Siva, Karttikeya remains a bachelor.

28. His name bestows auspiciousness in the world. It is
famous in the three worlds. It dispels all sins, is meritorious
and confers the sanctity of celibacy.

29. In the month of Karttika, the gods, the holy sages
and great ascetics go there to see Kumara.

30. He who has the vision of the lord in the Krttika
Naksatra in the month of Karttika is divested of all sins. He
derives all desired fruits.

31. Parvati became grief-stricken by separation from
Skanda. She piteously told her lord. "O lord, let us go
there."

32. Siva went to that mountain partially for her hap-
piness. He assumed the pleasing form of Jyotirlinga named
Mallikarjuna. 172

33. Even now Siva is seen there with Parvati satisfying
the desires of his devotees. He is the goal of the good.

34. On coming to know that Siva had come there with
Parvati, Kumara became unattached and was eager to go
elsewhere.

35. On being requested by the gods and sages he stay-
ed in a place three Yojanas away.

36. O Narada, on the full and new moon days, Parvati
and Siva are excited by love towards their son and they go
there to see him.

37- On new moon days, Siva himself goes there. On
full moon days, Parvati goes there certainly.

172. According to the present context the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
was established on the Kraunca mountain. It is difficult to know how it
came to be identified with the one on SriSaila overhanging the Krsna river
in the south-

Rudrasatnhita

38. O great sage, whatever you had asked in regard to
Karttikeya and Gane^a has been narrated by me.

39. On hearing this, an intelligent man becomes free
from all sins. He achieves all desired fruits of auspicious
nature.

40. Whoever reads, teaches, listens or narrates this
story derives all desires. No doubt need be entertained in
this respect.

41. A brahmin derives brahminical splendour, a
Ksatriya becomes victorious, a Vaisya prosperous and a Siidra
attains equality with the good.

42. A sick man becomes free from sickness; a frightened
man becomes free from fear; no man is harassed by the
visitation of goblins, ghosts etc.

43. This narrative is sinless, conducive to glory and
enhancer of happiness. It is conducive to longevity and
attainment of heaven. It is unequalled and bestows sons and
grandsons.

44. It confers salvation and reveals Siva's principles.
It is pleasing to Parvati and Siva and increases devotion to
Siva.

45. This shall always be heard by devotees and by
those who seek liberation and are free from worldly desires.
It confers identity with Siva. It is conducive to welfare and
is identical with Siva himself.

RUDR A-S AMHIT A.

SECTION V

Yuddha Khanda

CHAPTER ONE

Description of the Tripuras 113

Narada said : —

1. The excellent story of the householder Siva, includ-
ing that of GaneSa, Skanda and others which confers bliss has
been heard by us.

2. Now please narrate lovingly the story of how ,Siva
killed wicked persons playfully.

3. How did the lord burn off three cities of the
Asuras with a single arrow simultaneously? What sort of an
arrow was it?

4. Please narrate the story of the moon-crested lord
conducive to the happiness of the gods and sages and a play
of the magic of Siva.

Brahma said: —

5. When he was asked by Vyasa formerly, the excellent

173. According to the present version, three Asuras Taraka,
Vidyunmali and Kamaliksa performed penances and obtained a boon
from Brahma to build three castles, the one of copper on earth, another
of silver in the sky and the third of gold. Brahma asked the Asura Maya
to build these castles for the Asuras which were destroyed by Siva later on.
According to another Version, the Asura Bana received in gift three cities
from Siva, Brahma and Visnu.

The Ghedis adopted the name Tripuri for their capita] on the banks
of the Narmada. It is now traceable in the insignificant village Tewar,
thirteen miles from Jabalpur.

The legend of the three cities is as old as the Brahmana literature. It
is said that the Asuras built the city of copper on the earth, of silver in
the sky and of gold in the heavenly region : ST^TR^

^ JTrsTTTcirT: Wrf^ 1 cRTtspr ^1 J^f^ a^itff-
*TTlfWT^% W^^fwffltff fefa I SB. 3. 4. 4.3.

kudrasarhhita

sage Sanatkumara narrated the story. I will repeat the
same.

Sanatkumara said:- —

6. O Vyasa of great intellect, listen to the story of the
moon-crested lord, how the annihilator of the universe burnt
the three cities with a single arrow.

7. O great sage, when the Asura Taraka was killed
by Skanda, the son of Siva, his three sons performed
austerities.

8. The eldest of them was Tarakaksa, the middle
one Vidyunmali and the youngest Kamalaksa. All of them
were of equal strength.

9. They were self-controlled, well prepared, disciplined,
truthful, of steady mind, heroic and inimical to the gods.

10. Eschewing all enjoyments captivating the mind,
they went to the cavern of the mountain Meru 174 and per-
formed a wonderful penance.

11. The three sons of Taraka eschewed all desires in
the season of spring. They disdained music, the sound of
instruments as well as jubilation and performed penances.

12. In the summer season they mastered sunshine.
They lighted fires in all directions. Standing in their midst
they performed sacrifice with great devotion for the attain-
ment of success.

13. They lay unconscious in the blazing sunshine.
During the rainy season, they fearlessly bore all the showers
on their heads.

14-15. In the autumn they controlled their hunger
and thirst. All good foodstuffs, steady, wholesome, and viscid,
fruits, roots and beverages they distributed among the hungry.
They themselves remained like stones.

16. In the early winter they remained on top of the
mountain with fortitude, unsupported in any of the four
quarters.

1 7. In the late winter they stayed under water or wore
wet dripping silken cloth or allowed themselves to be covered
with dew drops.

i

i 174. For the Mountain Meru, see Note 247 P. 310 and Note 64

P. 623.

S
i

! •

Sivapuraria

18. They were not at all vexed or distressed thereby.
They gradually increased the severity of their austerities.
Thus the three excellent sons of Taraka performed penance
with Brahma as the object of their worship.

19. Maintaining strict severity in their austerities, the
excellent Asuras made their bodies emaciated by their
penance.

20. Standing on the bare ground on a single foot, the
strong Asuras performed the penance for a hundred years.

21. Taking in only air and enduring excessive heat and
distress, the terrible and wicked souls continued the penance
for a thousand years.

22. They remained standing on their heads for a
thousand years. They remained standing with their arms
lifted for hundred years.

23. Thus they bore extreme distress in their tenacious
evil intent. They remained alert day and night.

24. O sage, thus many years elapsed even as they
performed the penance. I think they had a virtuous dedica-
tion of their souls in Brahma, these sons of Taraka.

25. Satisfied by their penance, Brahma the supreme
lord of the gods and Asuras, of great glory, appeared in
front of them in order to grant them boons.

26. He was accompanied by sages, gods and Asuras.
The grandfather of all living beings spoke to them thus,
appeasing them.

Brahma said. —

27. O great Asuras, I am now pleased with your
penance. I shall grant you everything. Speak out the boons
you wish to have.

28. O enemies of the gods, tell me why you have
been performing this penance. I am the bestower of the
fruits of all sorts of penance. I am the creator of everything
for ever.

Sanatkumara said: —

29. On hearing his words they bowed to the grand-
father, with their palms joined in reverence and spoke to him
revealing their mind's desire slowly.

Rudrasarhhita

805

The Asuras said : —

30. O lord of gods, if you are pleased, if boons are to
be given to us, please grant us indestructibility at the hands
of everyone, every living being.

31. O lord of the universe, make us steady. Protect
us from enemies. Let not old age, sickness and death
befall us at any time.

32- We wish to become free from old age and death.
In the three worlds we shall subject all others to death.

33. Of what avail are riches, vast earth, excellent
cities, other sorts of vast enjoyments or big positions and
power ?

34. If one is to be swallowed by death in five days,
O Brahma, everything else belonging to him is futile. This
is our decisive thought.

Sanatkumara said: —

35. On hearing the words of those ascetic Asuras,
Brahma replied to them after remembering Siva, his lord.

Brahma said: —

36. O Asuras, there cannot be invariable indestructi-
bility. Please desist from asking for it. Seek some other
boon whatever you wish.

37. O Asuras, a creature is born, dies and will be
born surely. But no one will be free from old age or death
in this world.

38. Except Siva the destroyer of Death, and Visnu
all else are mortals. These two are the supervisers of virtue
and evil and have manifest and unmanifest forms.

39. If penance is performed for the harassment of the
world, it shall be understood as gone. It is only a well-
performed penance that can be fruitful.

40. Ponder over this keenly, O faultless ones, desist
from seeking immortality. Immortality is impossible for the
gods and the Asuras. It is inaccessible. It cannot be
warded off.

41. Hence choose a boon whereby you shall do some-
thing equal to your own strength. 175

175. The original of this translation is defective.

806

Sivapurana

Sanatkumara said: —

42. On hearing the words of Brahma, they thought
for a while and then replied to the grandfather of all the
worlds.

The Asuras said: —

43. O lord, we have no mansion where we can stay-
happily although we are valorous and invincible to our
enemies.

44. Build and give us three wonderful cities richly
endowed with wealth and unassailable even to the gods.

45. O Preceptor of the universe, Lord of the worlds,
by your grace we shall move about on the earth occupying
these cities.

46. Tarakaksa then said — "Let Visvakarma make a
city which cannot be broken even by the gods. Let that
golden city be mine".

47. Kamalaksa requested for a great silver city.
The delighted Vidyunmah" requested for a steel -set magnetic
city.

48-50. We will join together during midday at the
time of Abhijit when the moon shall be in the constellation
Pusya, when the dark clouds Puskara and Avar ta 1 78 shower in
plenty without being visible in the firmament with sporting
clouds, at the end of a thousand years. These cities shall
never join otherwise.

51-53. O Brahma, when these cities are joined together,
the lord who embodies all the gods sitting in a wonderful
chariot containing all necessary adjuncts, may, in his dis-
torted sport, discharge a wonderful single arrow and pierce
our cities. Lord Siva is free from enmity with us. He is
worthy of our worship and respect. How can he burn us ?
This is what we think in our minds. A person like him is
difficult to get in the world.

Sanatkumara said: —

54. On hearing their words, Brahma, the grandfather

176. Puskara and Avarta : A class o clouds that rain in torrents at
the dissolution of the world.

Rudrasathhitii

807

and creator of the worlds remembered Siva and told them
"Let it be so."

55. He ordered Maya 177 — "O Maya, build three cities,
one of gold, another of silver and a third one of steel."

56. After ordering directly like this, Brahma returned
to his abode in heaven even as the sons of Taraka were
watching.

57-58. Then the intelligent Maya built the cities by
means of his penance : the golden one for Tarakaksa, the
silver one for Kamalaksa and the steel one for Vidyunmall.
The three fortlike excellent cities were in order in heaven,
sky and on the earth.

59. After building the three cities for the Asuras, Maya
established them there desiring their welfare.

60. Entering the three cities thus, the sons of Taraka,
of great strength and valour experienced all enjoyments.

61. They had many Kalpa trees 178 there. Elephants
and horses were in plenty. There were many palaces set
with gems.

62. Aerial chariots shining like the solar sphere, set
with Padmaraga stones, moving in all directions looking like
moonshine illuminated the cities.

63-64. There were many palaces, divine minarets re-
sembling the summits of the mount Kailasa. Celestial dam-
sels, Gandharvas, Siddhas, and Caranas were also there.
There were temples of Rudra. In every house, people
performed the rites of Agnihotra. There were excellent brah-
mins wellversed in sacred texts aud devoted to Siva always.

65-66. The cities were embellished with many trees in
the well-laid out gardens and parks as if they had dropped from
heaven. There were beautiful tanks, lakes, wells, rivers and
huge- ponds. They were very beautiful with plenty of fruit-
bearing trees.

67. The cities were decorated with camps and tents of
various sizes and chariots with beautiful horses. There were
herds of elephants in rut too.

68. There were time-indicators, playgrounds and diff-
erent halls for Vedic studies.

177. Maya : an Asura artificer of the Daityas

178. Kalpadruma: It is one of the five trees oflndra's Paradise fabled
to fulfil all desires.

808

Sivapurana

69. There were persons of various types — sinners, vir-
tuous, pious, noble and those of good conduct too.

70. The place was sanctified everywhere by chaste
ladies engaged in serving their husbands and averse to evil
practices.

71. The cities contained heroic Asuras of great fortune
accompanied by their wives, sons and brahmins well versed in
the principles and practices of the Vedic and Smarta rites.
They were strict adherents to their duties.

72. People had broad chests and bull-like shoulders.
Some were of peaceful nature and some of warlike tempera-
ment. Some were calm and some furious. Some were hunch-
backed. Some were dwarfish.

73. They were protected by Maya. Some had the
blue-lily petals. Their hair was curly and dark in hue. Maya
had instructed them in the arts of warfare.

74. The cities abounded in people engaged in terrific
battles. There were many Asuras whose heroism was sancti-
fied by the worship of Brahma and Siva. The Asuras resem-
bled the sun, the Maruts and Mahendra. They were
sturdy.

75. Whatever sacred rites are mentioned in Sastras,
Vedas and Puranas, as favourites of Siva, as also the deities,
favourites of Siva, were found there.

76. Thus the Asuras, sons of Taraka, after acquiring the
boons, lived there subservient to Maya, a great devotee of
Siva.

77. Abandoning the other parts in the three worlds
they entered the cities and ruled the kingdom following the
principles of Siva.

78. O sage, a long time elapsed even as they were eng-
aged in meritorious activities and living happily ruling over
the good kingdom.

809

CHAPTER TWO

( The Prayer of the gods)

Vyasa said: —

1. O son of Brahma, of great intellect, and most
eloquent, please narrate. What happened after that ? How
did the gods become happy ?

Brahma said : —

2. On hearing the words of Vyasa of immeasurable
intellect, Sanatkumara spoke after remembering the lotus-like
feet of Siva.

Sanatkumara said: —

3. Indra and other gods scorched by their brilliance
and distressed consulted one another and sought refuge in
Brahma.

4. After bowing to and circumambulating Brahma,
they narrated their grievances to him after awaiting the pro-
per opportunity.

The gods said: —

5. O Brahma, the heaven-dwellers have been subjected
to great distress by Maya the virtual ruler of the three cities,
accompanied by the sons of Taraka.

6. Hence, O Brahma, we are distressed and we seek
refuge in you. Please plan out the way of their annihila-
tion whereby we can be happy.

Sanatkumara said: —

7. Requested thus by the gods, Brahma, the creator of
the worlds laughed and replied to them all who were utterly
frightened of Maya.

Brahma said : —

8. O gods, I tell you, do not be afraid at all of those
Asuras. Siva will hit upon a good way of killing them.

810

Sivapurana

9. The Asuras have flourished due to my favour. They
do not deserve destruction at my hands. Their merit is bound
to increase in the three cities 179 again.

10. All of you gods including Indra pray to Siva. If
the lord of all is pleased, he will carry out your task.

Sanatkumara said: —

1 1 . On hearing the words of Brahma, the distressed
gods including Indra went to the place where the bull-ban-
nered god Siva was staying.

12. Devoutly bowing to Siva, the lord of the gods, with
palms joined in reverence, all of them bent their shoulders
and eulogised Siva, the benefactor of the worlds.

The gods said: —

13. Obeisance to the gold-wombed lord, the creator
of everything. Obeisance to Thee, the sustainer, the omni-
present and the omnipotent.

14. Obeisance to Thee of destroyer's form, the annihila-
tor of living beings. Obeisance to Thee devoid of attributes,
and of immeasurable splendour.

15. Obeisance to Thee devoid of states, possessed of
splendour and free from aberrations; obeisance to Thee of
the soul of Great Elements; obeisance to the unsullied, the
great Atman.

16. Obeisance to Thee, the lord of all beings, the sus-
tainer of great burden,- the remover of thirst, to Thee whose
form is devoid of enmity, to Thee of excessive splendour.

1 7. Obeisance to Thee, the destroyer of the great forest
in the form of great Asuras, like conflagration. Obeisance to
the Trident-bearing lord who acts as the axe for the trees of
Asuras.

■ 18. O great lord, obeisance to Thee, the destroyer of
great Asuras; obeisance to Thee the lord of ParvatI, O
wielder of all weapons.

19. O lord of ParvatI, Obeisance to Thee, O great
soul, O great lord. Obeisance to Thee, the blue-necked
.Rudra and of the form of Rudra.

179. Tripura: See Note 173, P. 8;'a

Rudrasarhhita

811

20. Obeisance to Thee, knowable through Vedanta;
Obeisance to Thee who art beyond the paths. Obeisance
to Thee of the form of attributes, possessing attributes and
also devoid of them.

21. O great god, obeisance to Thee the delighter of
the three worlds. Obeisance to Pradyumna, Aniruddha and
Vasudeva (these being your manifestations). Obeisance to
Thee.

22. Obeisance to Thee, the lord Sarhkarsana. Obeisance
to Thee the destroyer of Karhsa. Obeisance to Thee O
Damodara, the pounder of Canura, 180 the partaker of poison.

23. Obeisance to Thee, O lord, Hrslkesa, Acyuta,
Mrda, Saiikara, Adhoksaja, enemy of the Asuras, Gaja and
Kama. Obeisance to you, O partaker of poison.

24. Obeisance to Thee, O lord Narayana, devoted
to Narayana, of the form of Narayana, oh ! one born of
Narayana's body.

25. Obeisance to Thee of all forms, the destroyer
of great hells, destroyer of sins. Obeisance to you, O bull-
vehicled god.

26. Obeisance to Thee of the form of time, moment etc.
Obeisance to Thee who bestows strength on his devotees;
obeisance to the multiformed; obeisance to the annihilator
of the hosts of Asuras.

27. Obeisance to the lord, conducive to the welfare of
brahmins and cows. Obeisance to the thousand-formed, obei-
sance to Thee of thousand organs.

28. O Siva, obeisance to Thee of the form of virtue, to
the Sattva, to the Atman of Sattva. Obeisance to thee whose
form is knowable through the Vedas. Obeisance to thee, the
beloved of the Vedas.

29. Obeisance to Thee whose form is the Veda, obeisa-
nce to the reciter of the Vedas. Obeisance to Thee who traver-
sest the path of good conduct and who art approachable
through the path of good conduct.

30. Obeisance to Thee the glory-seated; to the Truth-

180. Cardura was a wrestler in Karhsa's service. He was slain by
Kysna.

812

iSivapuratia

ful, beloved of truth, to the truth. Obeisance to Thee know-
able through the truth.

31. Obeisance to Thee possessed of magic-power, obei-
sance to the lord of magic; Obeisance to Thee (knowable
through the Vedas), to Brahman, to the one born of Brahma.

32. Obeisance to Thee, O lord, the penance, the bestower
of the fruits of penance, obeisance to thee, worthy of eulogy,
the eulogy, and to Thee whose mind is pleased with eulogy
always.

33. Obeisance to Thee delighted with vedic conduct,
to the one fond of praiseworthy conduct; to the one who has
fourfold forms and the forms of aquatic and terrestrial beings.

34. O lord, the gods and all others, being excellent,
are your excellences. Among the gods you are Indra; among
the planets you are the sun.

35. Among the worlds you are Satyaloka. Among the
rivers you are the celestial river Ganga.. Among the colours
you are the white colour. Among the lakes you are the
Manasa lake.

36. Among the mountains you are the Himalaya moun-
tain. Among the cows you are the Kamadhenu 181 . Among
the oceans you are the milk ocean. Among the metals you
are gold.

37. Among the four castes you are the brahmin. O
Siva, among men you are the king. Among holy centres of
salvation you are Kasi. Among the sacred rivers you are the
supreme sacred river.

38. Among all stones, you are the crystal, O great god,
among the flowers you are the lotus; among mountains you
are Himavat.

39. Among all activities you are the speech; among
poets you are Bhargava. Among birds you are the eight-legged
Sarabha. Among beasts of prey you are the lion.

40. O bull-bannered deity, among rocks you are
Salagrama; among the forms of worship you are N armada
Liriga.

41. Among animals, you are the bull Nandisvara, O

181. Kamadhenu, a mythical cow produced at the churning of the
ocean, was appropriated by the sage Vasiftha. Her worship is said to ful-
fil desires.

ttudrasarhhita

Mi

lord Siva. Among Vedic texts you are in the form of
Upanisads; Among the sacrificers you are the cool-rayed moon.

42. Among the burning ones., you are the fire, among
the devotees of Siva, you are Visnu, among Puranas you are
Bharata; among the letters of the alphabet you are the letter
Ma 182 .

43. Among the Bijamantras you are the Pranava; among
the terrible ones you are poison; among the pervading ones
you are the firmament; among the Atmans you are the
supreme Atman.

44. Among the sense-organs you are the mind; among
the charitable gifts you are the gift of freedom from fear;
among the sanctifying and life-giving agents you are consider-
ed the waters.

45. Among all acquisitions you are the acquisition of
sons; among those with velocity you are the wind; among
the routine sacred rites you are the Sandhya worship.

46. Among sacrifices you are the horse-sacrifice. Among
the Yugas you are the Kxta yuga; among the asterisms you
are Pusya ; among the Tithis you are Amavasya.

47. Among the seasons you are the spring; among holy
occasions you are the Samkrama; among grasses you are the
Kus"a grass; among gross trees you are the Banyan tree.

48. Among the Yogas you are the Vyatlpata; among
creepers you are the Soma creeper; among intellectual
activities you are the virtuous inclination, among intimate
ones you are the wife.

49. Among the pure activities of the aspirant, ©
great lord, you are Pranayama; among all Jyotirlirigas you
are Visvesvara.

50. Among all kindred beings you are Dharma. In all
stages of life you are Sannyasa. You are the supreme Liber-
ation in all Vargas. Among Rudras you are Nilalohita.

51. Among all Adityas you are Vasudeva; among the
monkeys you are Hanumat; among the sacrifices you are
Japayajfia; among the weapon-bearers you are Rama:

182. The letter 'M' is considered the best among the letters, as it
represents the five requisites for Tantra worship viz : Madya (wine) , rnamsa
(flesh) Matsya (fish) Mudra (mystical gesticulations) and Maithuria
(sexual intercourse). These are variously interpreted by the right and left
hand worshippers of Sakti.

814

&vaj>ura#a

52. Among the Gandharvas you are Citraratha; among
the Vasus you are certainly the fire; among the months you
are the intercalary month ; among the holy rites you are the
Caturdasi rite.

53. Among all lordly elephants you are Airavata 183 ;
among all Siddhas you are Kapila; among all serpents you are
Ananta, among all Pitrs you are Aryaman.

54-55. You are Kala (Time) among those who calculate;
among Asuras you are Bali. O lord of gods, of what avail
is a detailed narration ? You preside over the entire universe
and remain partially stationed within and partially without.

Sanatkumdra said; —

56-57. Eulogising thus the bull-bannered, the trident-
bearing lord Siva with various kinds of divine hymns, the
gods replied thus relevant to the context. O sage, all of
them Including Indra and others were very much distressed.
They were very shrewd in managing their selfish interests and
so mentioned them to Siva with stooping shoulders and
palms joined in reverence.

The gods said: —

58. O lord Siva, the gods including Indra have been
defeated by the Asura accompanied by his brothers. O lord,
all the gods have been defeated by the sons of Taraka.

59. The three worlds have been brought under their
sway. The excellent sages and the Siddhas have been
destroyed. The entire universe has been exterminated by
them.

60. The terrible Asuras take the entire share of the
sacrificial benefits to themselves. They have initiated evil
activities. They have prevented the sages from performing
their virtuous rites.

61. Definitely the sons of Taraka cannot be killed by
any living being. Hence, O Siva, they perform everything
as they please.

183. Airavata: He is the elephant produced at the churning of the
ocean and appropriated by the God Indra. He is the guardian deity who
presides over the east and takes part in the defence and protection of the
quarter.

tludrasamhitd

8i5

62. Let some policy be laid down for the protection
of the universe lest the terrible Asuras, the denizens of the
three cities, should destroy the world.

Sanatkumara said: —

63. On hearing these words of Indra and other
heaven-dwellers who were expatiating on their distress,
Siva spoke in return.

CHAPTER THREE

(The virtues of the Tripuras)

Siva said: —

1. A meritorious person is the presiding ruler of the
Tripuras now. He who practises meritorious deeds should not
be killed by sensible persons.

2. O gods, I know the misery of the gods completely.
It is great. Those Asuras are very strong. They cannot
be killed by the gods or demons.

3. The sons of Taraka and Maya are equally meri-
torious. O sensible ones, they are invincible to all the
citizens.

4. How can I knowingly commit malicious deeds to
my friends though I am hardy and powerful in battles?
Even Brahma has said that there is a great sin attending
on even casual malicious actions.

5. There are ways of atonement and amends for a
brahmin slayer, a wine addict, a thief or a person who
violates sacred rites. But there is no expiation for ungrate-
ful men.

6. Those Asuras are my devotees. O Gods, how can
they be slain by us? Let this aspect be thought over by you
who know what is virtue. You must consider this virtuously.

7. They should not be slain as long as they continue
their devotion to me. Yet, this reason may very well be
intimated to Visnu.

Sanatkumara said: —

8. O sage, thus when they heard these words Indra
and other gods immediately intimated this to Brahma in the
first instance.

9. Then, with Brahma at their head, the gods including
Indra quickly went to Vaikuntha in all glory.

10. On going there and seeing Visnu, the gods bowed
to him in agitation, and with their palms joined in reverence
they eulogised him with great devotion.

11. They intimated to Visnu the powerful, the reasons
for their misery, the earlier ones as well as the later.

12. On hearing the distress of the gods as well as the
vows observed by the Tripuras, Visnu spoke as follows.

Visnu said: —

13. This is true that where the eternal virtue reigns
supreme, no misery raises its head like darkness when the
sun is seen.

Sanatkumara said: —

14. On hearing these words the gods became misera-
ble and dejected. They spoke to Visnu with their lotus-like
faces depressed.

The gods said: —

15. How are we to go about our activities. How can
our misery be dispelled ? How can we be happy ? How are
we to remain firm?

16. As long as the Tripuras are alive, how can we
observe virtuous activities ? All the residents of the three
cities give troubles to us.

17. What else can we say to you? Either the anni-
hilation of the Tripuras shall be made or the untimely des-
truction of the gods shall be proceeded with.

Sanatkumara said: —

18. After saying this and lamenting frequently, the gods
were in a fix and could neither stay nor leave the proximity
of Visnu.

19-21. On seeing them in that plight, distressed and

Mudrasarhhitd ti?

humiliated, Visnu thought within himself, "I am the bene-
factor of the gods. But what can I do in this affair?
The sons of Taraka are the devotees of Siva." After
thinking like this, he thought upon the Supreme Visnu, the
lord of sacrifices, the primordial Purusa.

22. Immediately on being thought upon by Visnu all
the sacrifices came where Visnu was stationed.

23. With palms joined in reverence they bowed to and
eulogised Visnu, the lord of sacrifices and the primordial
Purusa.

24. The eternal lord Visnu saw the eternal sacrifices
and told them looking at the gods too including Indra.

Visnu said: —

25. In order to destroy the three cities and to bring
about prosperity in the three worlds, O gods perform the
worship of lord Siva along with the lord of sacrifices.

Sanatkumdra said: —

26. On hearing the words of Visnu, the intelligent
lord of the gods and bowing to him lovingly, the gods eulogised
the lord of sacrifices.

27. O sage, eulogising thus, the gods worshipped the
Sacrificial Being in accordance with the rules governing the
same with the complete rites.

28. Then from the sacrificial pit rose up thousands
of Bhutas of huge size and armed with tridents, spears, iron
clubs and other weapons.

29-31. The gods saw thousands of Bhutasanghas armed
with tridents and spears and possessing various weapons such
as staffs, bows, stones, etc. They had various missiles to
strike with. They were in different guises. They resembled
the destructive fire and Rudra. They were on a par with
the destructive Sun. When they bowed to him and stood
waiting in front, Visnu saw tiiem. The glorious lord of
sacrifices who carried out the behests of Rudra, spoke to
them.

32. Visnu said — "O Bhutas, listen to my statement.
You are all very powerful and have risen up for fulfilling

glo-

me task of the gods. All of you go immediately to the
three cities.

33. Go there, strike at, break and burn the three cities
of the Asuras. O Bhutas, thereafter you can go away as
you please for prosperity.

Sanatkumara said'. —

34. On hearing the words of the lord, the hosts of
Bhutas bowed to the lord of the gods and went to the three
cities of the Asuras.

35. Immediately after their entry into the cities they
were reduced to ashes like moths in the fire.

36. Those who escaped fled out of the cities and came
grief-stricken to Visnu.

37. On seeing them and hearing the incidents in detail,
lord Visnu pondered over this.

38. On realising that all the gods were distressed and
dejected in the mind, he too was extremely grieved.

39. He became much worried at the thought "How
can I destroy the three cities of the Asuras, with force and
carry out the task of the gods?"

40. The lord who had authoritatively laid down the
rules of conduct according to the Vedas, said "There is no
doubt in this that the virtuous ones cannot be destroyed by
black magic.

41. O good gods, these Asuras and the other residents
of the three cities are virtuous. Hence they have become
invincible. Not in any other manner.

42. After perpetrating great sins they worship Siva
and so they are freed of all sins even as the leaves of the
lotus from water.

43. O gods, thanks to the worship of Siva, their
cherished desires are realised. Different means of enjoyment
in the world are brought under their control.

44. Hence these Asuras who are devoted to the phallic
worship enjoy different kinds of pleasures and prosperity and
salvation hereafter.

45. Then putting obstacles in their activities of virtuous
rites, by means of magic art I shall destroy the three cities

kudrasaihhitS

819

of the Asuras quickly for accomplishing the task of the
Asuras."

46. After thinking thus, lord Visnu set himself to the
task of interfering with the sacred rites of the Asuras.

47. As long as the worship of Siva is continued and
as long as the pure activities are strictly adhered to, there
is no question of their ruin at all.

48. Hence such means shall be followed as will make
Vedic Dharma disappear thence. Undoubtedly the Asuras
will foresake their worship of the phallic emblem of Siva.

49. Deciding thus, Visnu started ridiculing the Vedas
for putting up obstacles in the virtuous activities of the
Asuras.

50. At the bidding of Siva, Visnu who was com-
manded to protect the three worlds, and who renders help
to the gods spoke to them.

Visnu said: —

51. O gods, you go to your own abodes. Undoubtedly
I shall carry on the task of the gods to the extent of my
intellect.

52. Strenuously I shall make them averse to Siva.
Coming to know that they are devoid of devotion to him
he will reduce them to ashes.

Sanatkumara said: —

53. O sage, accepting his behest with bent head, the
gods and Brahma felt satisfied and with faith in their hearts
returned to their abodes.

54. Thereafter Visnu performed deeds conducive to
the welfare of the gods. Listen to those excellent deeds
destructive of all sins.

i

§20 $ivapurana
CHAPTER FOUR

(The Tripuras are initiated)

Sanatkumara mid: —

1. For causing obstacles in their virtuous activities,
Visnu of great brilliance, created a Purusa 18 * born of
himself.

2. He had a shaven head, wore dirty clothes, held a
woven wicker vessel in his hand and a roll of cotton in his
hand which he shook at every step.

3. His hands tucking at the cloth were weak. His face
was pale and weak. In a faltering voice he was muttering
"Dharma, Dharma."

4. He bowed to Visnu and stood in front of him.
He spoke to Visnu with hands joined in reverence.

5. "O laudable, revered one, please tell me what my
names are and what my place shall be."

6. On hearing these auspicious words, Lord Visnu
became delighted and spoke these words.

Vifnu said: — ■

7. O intelligent one, born of me, you are certainly
identical with me in form. Know why you have been
created. I shall tell you.

8. You are born of me. You can perform my task.
You are my own. Certainly you will be worthy of worship
always.

9. Let your name be Arihat. You will have other
auspicious names too. I shall assign to you a place after-

184. According to the present context Visriu created a delusive teacher
called Mayamoha who created a MayaSastra of sixteen lakhs of slokas in
Apabhramsa, preaching Jina Dharma for misguiding the Asuras. Mayamoha
created four sorts of preachers for the propagation of Jina Dharma. He
preached non-violence, forbade Srauta and Smarta riluals, discarded
Varnasrama system, created an order for women that resulted in leaving
their home and leading the life of nuns. In some versions, the role is
assigned to Brhaspati, the preceptor of the Gods who in the guise of their
preceptor Sukra deludes the Asuras. For details, see Mayamohaprakarana
in Padma, Visnu, Lihga, Matsya etc.

Rudrasathhita

821

wards. Now hear with reverence what is relevant to the
context.

10-11. O you who wield Maya, ceate a deceptive
sacred text of sixteen hundred thousand verses, 186 contrary to
Srutis and Smrtis wherein Varnas and Asramas shall be.
eschewed. Let that holy text be in Apabhramsa language. Let
there be emphasis on actions. You shall strain yourself to
extend it further.

12. I shall bestow on you the ability to create it.
Different kinds of magic arts shall be subservient to you;"

13. On hearing the words of Visnu, the great soul,
the Maya Purusa bowed to and replied to Visnu.

The shaven-head said: —

14. O lord, command me quickly what I shall do.
At your bidding, all activities shall be fruitful.

Sanatkumara said: —

15. Saying this he recited the main tenet in the decep-
tive philosophy. "Heaven and hell are functioning here
itself."

16. Remembering the lotus-like feet of Siva, Visnu
told him again. "These Asuras, the residents of the three
cities, shall be deluded.

17. O intellegent one, they shall be initiated by you.
They shall be taught strenuously. At my bidding you will
incur no sin on that account.

18. O ascetic, no doubt, Vedic and Smaxta rites
flourish and shine there. But these shall certainly be ex-
ploded through this Vidya.

19. O you with shaven head, you shall go there for
destroying the residents of the three cities. Revealing the
Tamasika rites, destroy the three cities.

20. After that, O great one, you shall go to the desert

185. The reading '^"t^Sl^t)^' found in the printed, editions of
Sivapurana is incorrect. On the authority of Matsyapurana (Oh, 24) we
have adopted the reading q^S^TWST^IT and translated accordingly.

822

Sivapurana

region and stay there carrying on your own duties and
activities till the advent of the Kali age.

21. When the Kali age begins let your Dharma be
revealed. You shall then continue to do so by means of
disciples and disciples' disciples.

22. At my bidding your cult shall certainly expand.
Depending upon my permission and direction you will attain
me as your goal."

23. At the bidding of the lord Siva transmitted
through the thought process, Visnu, the powerful, com-
manded him thus and vanished.

24. Then the ascetic of shaven head acting in accor-
dance with Visnu's behest created four disciples of the like
form as himself and taught them the deceptive cult.

25. The four disciples had shaven heads and were of
auspicious features. They bowed to Visnu, the great soul
and stood waiting.

26. O sage, the delighted Visnu too, who carries out
the behests of Siva spoke to those four disciples.

27. "Just as your preceptor you too will become
blessed at my bidding. There is no doubt in this that you
will attain good goal.

28. The four disciples with shaven heads followed the
heretic cult. They had the wicker vessel in their hands.
They covered their mouths with a piece of cloth.

29. They habitually wore dirty clothes. They did not
talk much. Delightedly they used to speak "Dharma is the
great gain, the true essence" and some similar words.

30. They held a besom broom made of pieces of cloths.
They used to walk step by step very slowly because they
were afraid of injuring living beings.

31. O sage, with great joy they bowed to the lord
and stood in front of him.

32. They were grasped by the hand by Visnu and
formally entrusted to the preceptor. Their names too were
announced by him particularly and lovingly.

33. "Just as you, these too also belong to me. The
initial prefix to their names shall be the word "Pujya"
because they are worthy of respect.

Rudrasamhita

823

34. Let the names Rsi, Yati, Acarya, and Upadhyaya
also be well known appendages to you all.

35. My names shall also be assumed by you. The
auspicious name "Arihat" shall be considered destructive of
sins.

36. All activities conducive to the happiness of the
worlds shall be performed by you. The goal of those who
carry on activities favourable to the worlds shall become
excellent."

Sanatkumara said: —

37. Then, bowing to Visnu who carried out the wishes
of Siva, the deceptive sage went joyously to the three cities
accompanied by his disciples.

38. Urged by Visnu of great magic, that sage of
great self-control entered the three cities and created illusion.

39. Stationing himself in a garden at the outskirts of
the city, accompanied by his disciples he set his magic in
motion. That was powerful enough to fascinate even the
expert magicians.

40. O sage, his magic was ineffective in the three cities
by virtue of Siva's worship. Then the heretic sage became
distressed.

41. He mentally remembered and eulogised Visnu
many times, with an aching heart. He had been so dis-
pirited and listless.

42. On being remembered by him Visnu mentally
thought of Siva. Receiving his behest by the process of
thought forms he remembered Narada.

43. Immediately after, Narada approached Vi?nu.
After bowing to him and eulogising him, he stood before
Visnu with palms joined in reverence.

44. Visnu, the foremost among the intelligent and who
always carried out the tasks of the gods and who was
engaged in rendering help to the worlds spoke to Narada
then.

45. "O dear, this is being mentioned to you at the
bidding of Siva. Go to the three cities immediately. The

824

Sivapurana

sage has gone there already for deluding the residents of
the cities."

Sanatkumara said: —

46. On hearing his words, Narada, the excellent sage
went there quickly where the ascetic expert in magic was
stationed.

47. Narada, an expert in magic, at the bidding of
the lord, an expert in the art of illusion, entered the three
cities along with the deceptive sage, and got himself
initiated.

48. Then Narada approached the lord of the three
cities. After the preliminary enquiries about his health and
welfare he spoke to the king.

Narada, said: —

49. A certain sage, very virtuous and excellent master
of lores has arrived here. He possesses complete knowledge
of the Vedic lore.

50. Many cults have been observed by me but none
of them is like his. Seeing the eternal virtue in this cult we
have got ourselves initiated into it.

51. O great king, O excellent Asuras, if you have any
interest in that cult, you shall get yourself initiated into it.

Sanatkumara said: —

52. On hearing his words full of significance, the lord
of the Asuras was deluded and exclaimed with surprise in
his heart.

53. "Since Narada has been initiated we too shall be
initiated." Resolving thus, the Asura approached the sage.

54. On seeing his features, the Asura was deluded by
his magic. After bowing to him be spoke thus.

The Tripura ruler said: —

55. O sage of pure mind, you shall perform my
initiation. I shall become your disciple. True. It is un-
doubtedly true.

56. On hearing the frank words of the ruler of the

Rudrasathhita

825

Asuras the heretic sage, professing to be eternal, spoke
emphatically.

57. O excellent Asura, if you are prepared to act
according to my behests, I shall initiate you, otherwise not,
even if you strive for a number of times.

58. On hearing these words the king was deluded by
.magic. With palms joined in reverence he immediately
replied to the sage.

The Asura said: — ■

59. I shall carry out whatever command you are
pleased to give. I will not transgress your orders. True.
It is certainly true.

Sanatkumara said: —

60. On hearing the words of the Tripura-ruler, "title
excellent sage removed the cloth from his mouth and said.

61. c '0 lord of Asuras, take initiation in this most
excellent of all cults. By this initiation you will become
contented."

Sanatkumara said: —

62. Saying thus, the deceptive sage immediately per-
formed the initiation of the ruler of the Asuras, in accordance
with his cult observing all rules.

63. O sage, when the ruler of the Asuras was initiated
along with his brothers, the residents of the three cities too
got themselves initiated.

64. O sage, the entire Tripuras were filled with the
line of disciples of the sage, an expert in great art of
illusion.

826

Sivapurana

CHAPTER FIVE

{The Tripuras are fascinated)

Vyasa said: —

1. When the ruler of the Asuras was initiated after
being deluded by the deceptive sage expert in the magic
art what did the sage say? What did the ruler of the
Asuras do?

Sanathtmara said: —

2. After offering him initiation, the ascetic Arihan
served by his disciples, Narada and others, spoke to the ruler
of the Asuras.

Arihan said: —

3. O ruler of the Asuras, listen to my statement,
pregnant with wisdom. It is the essence of the Vedanta
and bears high esoteric importance.

4. The entire universe is eternal. It has no creator
nor it is an object of creation. It evolves itself and gets
annihilated by itself.

5. There are many bodies from Brahma down to a
blade of "grass. They themselves are the gods for them.
There is no other God.

6. What we mean by Brahma, Visnu and Rudra are
only the names of embodied beings j ust like my name
Arihan etc.

7. Just as our bodies perish when their time arrives,
so also the bodies of all beings from Brahma to a mosquito
perish when their time arrives.

8. When we consider, none of these bodies is superior
to any other since in respect of taking food, copulation, sleep
and fear these are invariably the same everywhere.

9. Taking in water and foodstuffs to the required
quantity, all living beings derive a kindred satisfaction, neither
more nor less.

10. After drinking water we are gladly relieved of thirst.
Others too are equally relieved. There is no deviation this
way or that.

Rudrasarhhita

827

11. There may be a thousand damsels of exquisite
beauty and comely features. But only one of them can be
used at a time for the sexual intercourse.

12. Let there be hundreds of horses, of different varieties.
But for the purpose of riding only one can be used on one
occasion.

13. The pleasure that one derives in that sleep on a
cushioned couch is the same that one derives by sleeping on
the bare ground.

14. Just as we, the embodied beings, are afraid of
death so also the bodies from Brahma to the worm are afraid
of death.

15. If we analyse with a keen intellect, all the embodied
being are equal. After coming to this conclusion it does not
behove anyone to injure anyone else.

16. There is no other virtue equal to the mercy shown
to living beings. Hence all men shall strenuously practise acts
of mercy to living beings.

17. If a single living being is protected it amounts to
the protection of the three worlds. If that is killed it amounts
to the killing of all others. Hence it is our duty to protect
and abstain from killing others.

18. Non-violence is the greatest virtue. Affliction of
others is a great sin. Salvation is denned as non-dependence
on others. Eating the food of our choice is heavenly bliss.

19. This has been mentioned by the earlier sages with
good justification to be sure. Hence no violence should be
indulged in by men who are afraid of hell.

20. There is no sin equal to violence in the three
worlds, consisting of the mobile and immobile. A person who
afflicts others violently goes to hell. A non -violent, man goes
to heaven.

21. There are many kinds of charitable gifts. Of what
avail are these which give very insignificant results. There
is no other gift equal to that of protection.

22. Four types of gifts have been mentioned by the
great sages for the welfare of the people here and hereafter
as a result of discussions and deliberations of various sacred
texts,

23. Protection shall be granted to the frightened,

,828

Sivapurona

medicine to the sick) learning to the student and food to the
hungry.

24. All sorts of charitable gifts recommended by the
sages do not merit even a sixteenth part of the gift of protect-
ion to a living being.

25. The strength that one derives by the use of gems
mantras, and herbs is of inconceivable influence. But it is
practised strenuously only for earning money.

26. The hoarding and amassing of vast wealth is useful
only for the propitiation of twelve organs of senses. Of what
avail is the propitiation of other things ?

27. The twelve organs of senses are the five organs of
activity and the five organs of knowledge together with the
mind and intellect.

28. Living beings have heaven and bell here itself and
not anywhere else. Happiness is heaven and misery is hell.

29. If the body is cast off in the midst of enjoyment
thatis the greatest liberation conceived by the philosophers.

30. When pain comes to an end along with its imp-
ressions. If ignorance too dies away, it is conceived as the
greatest salvation by the philosophers.

31. Supporters and exponents of the Vedas accept this
as an authoritative Vedic text that no living being shall be
injured. Violence is not justifiable.

32. The Vedic text encouraging slaughter of animals can-
not be held authoritative by the learned. To say that violence
is allowed in Agnistoma is an erroneous view of the wicked.

33. It is surprising that heaven is sought by cutting
off trees, slaughtering animals, making a muddy mess with
'blood and by burning gingelly seeds and ghee.

34. Narrating his opinions to the leader of the
Tripuras, the ascetic addressed the citizens with great zeal.

35. He referred to things which gave credence, being
visible, which brought happiness to the body, which are in-
dicated in Buddhistic theology and which are consistent with
the Vedic passages.

36. It is said in the Vedas that Bliss is an aspect of
the Brahman. That shall be taken as it is. It is false to
bring in various alternatives.

37. One shall seek and enjoy happiness as long as the

ItudrasarhhitS

body is hale and hearty, as long as the sense-organs are not
impaired and as long as the old age is far off.

38. When there is sickness, impairment of the sense-
organs and old age how can one derive happiness ? Hence
those who seek happiness shall be prepared to give away even
the body.

39. The Earth is burdened by those who are not ready
to please and satisfy the suppliant. It is not burdened by
oceans, mountains and trees.

40. The body is ready to go in a trice, and hoarded
things are attended with the risk of dwindling down. Realis-
ing this a sensible man shall see to the pleasure of his body.

41. It is mentioned in the Vedas that this body is
going to constitute the breakfast for dogs, crows and worms.
The body has its ultimate end in being reduced to ashes.

42- It is unnecessary to divide the people into differ-
ent castes. When all are men who is superior and who is
inferior ?

43. Old men say that creation began with Brahma. He
begot two sons the famous Daksa and Marici.

44. Kasyapa, the son of Marici married thirteen of
the sweet-eyed daughters of Daksa, they say, in accordance
with righteous path.

45. But people of modern times whose intelligence and
valour are but a modicum unnecessarily wrangle over the
fact whether this is proper or improper.

46. Some of the ancestors thought that the four castes'
are born of mouth, arms, thighs etc. of Brahma. 186 But when
we consider, this does not fit in properly.

47. How can sons born of the same body or from the
same body be of four different castes ?

48. Hence the divisions of castes and outcastes do not
appear to be sound. Hence no difference between man and
man should be entertained.

Sanatkumara said: —

49. O sage, addressing the lord of the Asuras and' the;

1 86. It refers to the Vedic and Puranic classification of society
into four Varnas, viz. Brahmana, Ksatriya, Vaisya and Sudra, said to have
emanated from the mouth, arms, thighs and feet of the creator.

830

Sivapurina

citizens thus, the sage with his disciples spoiled the Vedic rites
in a determined manner.

50. He then criticised the womanly virtues of chastity
and manly virtues of continence etc.

51. Similarly, he attacked and repudiated the divine
rites, Sraddhika rites, sacrificial rites and holy observances
and festivals, pilgrimages and anniversaries.

52. Worship of Siva, propitiation of his phallic form,
adoration of Visnu, Sun, Ganesa and other deities in accor-
dance with the sacred texts were repudiated by him.

53. The heretic sage, an expert in wielding magic art,
foremost among the deceptive, criticised the ceremonial ablu-
tions and charitable gifts that are made on auspicious
occasions.

54. O foremost among brahmins, why shall I dilate
upon this topic ? Suffice it to say that in the three cities
every type of Vedic rites was completely stopped by that
deceptive heretic sage.

55. The women of the three cities who were hitherto
devotedly attached to their husbands were deluded and mis-
guided and they abandoned their noble inclinations to serve
their husbands.

56. The fascinated men practised rites of seduction and
winning over and made their artifices fruitful in gaining
other men's wives.

57. The attendant maids in the harems, the princes,
the citizens and the ladies were perfectly enchanted by him.

58. Thus when the citizens became averse to virtuous
rites and actions, evil reigned supreme.

59. At the bidding of lord Visnu, his magic art and
evil fortune visited the three cities.

60. The glory that they had acquired by the boon of
Brahma, the lord of the gods, went out forsaking them, at the
behest of Brahma.

61. Blessing them with the utter delusion of their
intellect, perpetrated by the illusion of Visnu, Narada be-
came contented.

62. Though Narada and the heretic sage had been in
that guise for long, they were not defiled, thanks to the
benediction of lord Siva.

.kudrasathhiti

63. As Siva willed, O sage, the capacity of the ruler of
the Asuras became stunted and thwarted as also of his bro-
thers and Maya.

CHAPTER SIX

(Prayer to Siva)

Vydsa said: —

1. When the ruler of the Asuras, his brothers and the
citizens were thus deluded, O lord Sanatkumara, what hap-
pened ? Please mention everything.

Sanatkumara said: —

2-3. When the Asuras had become so, when they had
abandoned the worship of Siva, when the virtuous rites of
chaste women came to an end and evil conduct came to
stay, Visnu was apparently contented. Accompanied by the
gods, Visnu went to Kailasa in order to intimate their activities
to Siva.

4-5. Visnu, the gods, Brahma and others stood near
him and with great concentration they meditated on him.
Visnu and Brahma eulogised the omniscient Siva with pleas-
ing words.

Visnu said: —

6. "Obeisance to you, great lord, the great soul,
Narayana, Rudra and Brahma, obeisance to you in the form
of Brahman."

7. After eulogising lord Siva thus and prostrating at
length, he repeated the mantra of DaksinamGrti Rudra.

8-9. He repeated the mantra fifteen million times
standing in water and concentrating his mind on him. Lord
Visnu meditated on the great lord Siva. In the meantime;,
the gods too eulogised him with devotion.

The gods said: —

10. Obeisance to you, the soul of all, obeisance to Siva

832

Sivapurana

the remover of distress, obeisance to the blue-necked Rudra,
Obeisance to the kno wledge-formed Siva of great mind.

11. You are our ultimate goal for ever. You are the
remover of all adversities. O destroyer of the enemies of the
gods, you alone are to be respected by us always.

12. You are the beginning. You are the primordial
being. You are self-bliss. You are the everlasting lord. You
are the lord of the universe, the direct creator of Prakrti and
Purusa.

13. You alone are the creator, sustainer and the anni-
hilator of the worlds. Assuming the Gunas of Rajas, Sattva,
and Tairias you are Brahma, Visnu and Siva.

14. In this universe, you enable people to cross the
ocean of Existence. You are the undecaying lord of all. You
are the granter of boons. You are the subject and not the
object of speech and contents.

1 5. You shall be requested for salvation by the Yogins,
the formost among those who know the theory of Yoga. You
are stationed inside the lotus like heart of the Yogins.

1 6. The Vedas and the saintly men speak of you as
the supreme Brahman. You are a heaped mass of splendour
and greater than the greatest. They call you the great prin-
ciple,

17. What they call the great soul in the universe, O
lord, are you yourself, O Siva soul of all, ruler of the three
worlds.

1 8. Whatever is seen, heard or eulogised, whatever is
being realised, O preceptor of the universe, are you alone.
They call you minuter than the atom and greater than the
greatest.

19. I bow to you everywhere, you who have hands,
legs, eyes, heads, mouths, ears and noses everywhere.

20. I bow to you everywhere, you who are omniscient
who pervade everything, you who are unveiled as the lord of
all, you who are omniformed and odd-eyed.

21. I bow to you everywhere who are the lord of all,
who preside over the worlds, who are the excellent Satya and,
Siva and who have the refulgence of innumerable suns.

22. I bow to you everywhere, you the lord of the uni-

KitdrasaThhita

verse devoid of beginning and end, the lord of the twenty six
Tattvas 187 and the activiser of everything.

23. I bow to you everywhere you the activiser of the
Prakrti, the great grandfather of everyone, the lord, the
body of everyone.

24. The Srutis and those who know the essence of
Srutis speak of you thus. You are the abode of all, the self-
born and the knower of the essence of Srutis.

25. The various living beings created by you and to be
created in future are invisible to us. The gods, the Asuras,
the brahmins, nay, the mobile and immobile beings eulogise"
you alone.

26. O Siva, dear to the gods, save us, the gods who
have no other go, by killing all the Asuras instantaneously.
We are practically destroyed by the Tripuras.

27. O lord Siva, they are now deluded by your magic.
O lord, they have gone astray from the virtuous path thro-
ugh the expedient taught by Visnu.

28. O lord, favourably disposed towards your devotees,
those Asuras have resorted to Buddha's religion and philoso-
phy, thanks to our good fortune and hence they have esche-
wed all Vedic sacred rites.

29. You have always been the only one carrying out
the task of the gods and the bestower of refuge. We have
sought refuge in you. Please do as you desire.

Sanatkumara said: —

30. After eulogising lord Siva thus, the distressed gods
stood in front of him with palms joined in reverence and kneel-
ing low.

187. Substitute i*3fe5T^fft*n?r tor ^RPpJRte^ij; I T h e lattcr
reading which is found in most of the printed editions of Sivapurana is in-
correct. Cf. Lirigapurana : 1. 71. 109-

According to the present text, the intellect, ego, mind, 10 senses
* gross and 5 subtle elements, the invisible primordial nature (Pradhana)
tnfe individual soul (Jiva).the transcendent God (Isyara) constitute a
group of twenty-six categories wherein Jiva is the enjoyer of the fruits
and Isvara is the spectator of the working of Prakrti. But there « aether
twentyseventh category named Siva or Sada&va, the highest divine being
(^T^TOIT:) who alone is capable of bestowing grace upon his devotees.

napv.ra.na

31. Eulogised thus by Indra and others and by the
repetition of Japas by Visnu, the delighted lord came there
seated on his bull.

32. Getting down from Nandisa and embracing Visnu,
lord Siva delighted in his mind cast his benign look on all
with his hand resting on Nandin.

33. Casting a sympathetic glance on the gods, the
delighted Siva, lord of ParvatT, spoke to Visnu in a majestic
tone.

Siva said: —

34. "O lord of gods, all the intentions of the gods have
been understood by me now. The power of Visnu's magic
and that of the intelligent Narada has been known.

35. O most excellent of the gods, there is no doubt in
this that I will destroy the three cities of the Asuras if they
persist in indulging in evil activities.

36. But the great Asuras are my firm devotees. They
shall be killed only by me, for they have been forced to aban-
don their excellent virtue under false persuasion.

37. Let Visnu or any one else slay them now that they
have been made to abandon their Dharma. The Asuras of
the three cities have become devoid of devotion to me."

38. O great sage, on hearing these words of Siva, all
the heaven-dwellers and Visnu became dispirited.

39. On seeing the gods and Visnu sitting cheerless,
Brahma, the creator of the worlds spoke to Siva with palms
joined in reverence.

Brahma said: —

40. There is no sin in this, since you are the foremost
among those who know the Yogic theory; you are the great
lord, the great Brahman and the saviour of gods and sages
always.

41 . It is at your own bidding that they have been
deluded. You induced them to be deluded. Although the
Asuras have forsaken their duties and your worship, they carr-
not be killed by others.

42. Hence, O great lord, the saviour of the lives of

kudrasaihhitd

the gods and the sages, the Mlecchas 188 shall be killed by
you for the protection of the good.

43. As it is the duty of a king, you will not be sinning
by their destruction. Hence, the good people, brahmins etc
shall be saved and the thorns uprooted.

44. Even an ordinary king would do so if he cares to
maintain his sway. You have the suzerainty of all the worlds.
Hence, tarry not to protect us.

45. Great sages, Indra, sacrifices, Vedas, all the Sastras,
Visnu and even I — all these depend on you, O lord of gods.

46. O lord, you are the emperor of all deities, the
lord of all. Visnu and the entire universe constitute your
retinue.

47. Visnu is your heir-apparent, O unborn one, I,
Brahma, am your priest and Sukra who carries out your
behests is the Royal officer.

48. The other gods too, O lord, are subjects to your
control. They continue to perform their own duties. True.
It is undoubtedly true.

Sanatkumara said: —

49. On hearing the words of Brahma, Siva, the
delighted lord of the gods replied to Brahma.

Siva said: —

50. O Brahma, if I am to be proclaimed the emperor
of the gods, I do not have the paraphernalia characteristic of
my lordship.

51. I do not have a divine chariot and a divine chario-
teer. I do not possess bows and arrows which accord victory
in a battle.

52. If there had been a chariot I could have sat in it
and with bow and arrows I could have killed even powerful
Asuras, with a resolute determination.

Sanatakumdra said: —

53. On hearing these words of the lord, the gods

1 88. Mlecchas are represented as violent, carnivorous, torturous, non-
Aryan wild tribes who caused terror in the social life of the country.

^ivapurana

including Brahma, Indra and Visnu were delighted. After
bowing to him they spoke to lord Siva.

The gods said: —

54. O lord of the gods, O great god, we shall con-
stitute those paraphernalia — chariot etc. O lord, we are ready
for the battle.

55. After saying so jointly after realising Siva's wish
they, the delighted gods, severally told him so, with palms
joined in reverence.

CHAPTER SEVEN

{The gods pray)

Sanatkumara said: —

1 . On hearing the words of the gods and others, Siva
accepted the proposal. The lord is worthy of being sought re-
fuge and is also favourably disposed to his devotees.

2. O sage, in the meantime the goddess Parvati arrived
there with the two sons where Siva was in conversation with
the gods.

3. On seeing Parvati come there, Visnu and others
were surprised but without agitation they bowed to her in
great humility.

4. O sage, they shouted cries of "Victory". But un-
able to know the cause of her arrival, they remained silent.

5. On being eulogised by the gods, the goddess Parvati
full of wonderful enthusiasm spoke lovingly to her lord, an
expert in different kinds of sports.

The goddess said: —

6. "O lord, see the sportive six-faced 189 Karttikeya,

189. Karttikeya is called a six-faced deity (qn 1 *^:), for according
to the legend Karttikeya when born was fostered by the six Krttikas who
offered their six breasts to him, so he became six-headed.

Rudrasarhhita

refulgent like the sun our excellent son embellished by excel-
lent ornaments."

Sanatkumdrci said: —

7. Thus addressed by the mother of the worlds with
pleasing words. Lord Siva was never satiated in drinking
nectar of the beauty of Skanda's face.

8. He recollected the Asuras who had come (to fight
and) pounded by his splendrous valour. Embracing and
kissing Skanda on the head lord Siva rejoiced much.

9. Then the mother of the universe stayed there for a
while and held conversation with the lord. Afterwards the
goddess, an expert in different kinds of sports stood up.

10. Then Siva of good sports entered his apartment
accompanied by Nandin and Parvatl. He was then saluted
by all the gods.

11. O sage, all the gods dispirited and worried stood
on either side of the doorway of mansion of Siva, the
intelligent lord of the gods.

12. They began to mutter "What shall we do ? Where
shall we go? Who will make us happy? Everything has
happened with a "but." We are doomed."

13. Indra and others looked at one another's face.
They were much agitated. They spoke in faltering words.
They cursed their fate.

14. Some gods said "We are sinners." Others said
"We are unfortunate." Still others said "The great Asuras
are very fortunate."

15. In the meantime on hearing their multifarious
voices, Kumbhodara 190 of excessive refulgence beat the gods
with a baton.

16. The terrified gods shouting "Ha Ha." fled from
there. The sages faltered and fell on the ground. There
was excitement and great confusion.

17. Unnerved and languid, Indra crawled on his
knees. The celestial sages dropped to the ground.

18. The excessively agitated sages and gods gathered

190. Kalidasa mentions Kumbhodara as an attendant of Siva. Cf.
Raghu. ii. 35.

838

SivapuraQd

together and approached Brahma and Visnu of friendly
tamper ament.

19. The sages Kasyapa and others said to Visnu who
removes the fear of all the worlds "O this is due to our
ill luck."

20. The other brahmins said — "Our task is not com-
pleted due to our ill luck." Still others who were greatly
surprised said — "How did this obstacle happen ?"

21. O sage, on hearing these words of Kasyapa and
others, Visnu consoled the sages and the gods and spoke thus.

Visnu said: —

22. O gods, O sages, you listen to my words with
attention. Why are you distressed? Eschew your sorrows.

23. O gods ponder over this. This propitiation of
the great is not an easy task. It is heard that there is great
difficulty at first in propitiating the great. The lord will
certainly be pleased after coming to know of your resolute
nature.

24. Let this be pondered over well by all of you, how
can lord Siva, the presiding deity of the Ganas be made
favourable immediately.

25-26. O scholars, the following mantra shall be re-
peated — Utter the syllable Omkara first, then repeat the word
Namah (obeisance) . Then say Sivaya ( to Siva) . Then
repeat Subham" twice and "Kuru" twice. Afterwards say
"Sivaya Namah Om." 1M

27. If you repeat this mantra a crore times thinking of
Siva, Siva will carry out the task.

28. O sage, when this was mentioned by Visnu the
powerful, the gods began to propitiate Siva.

29. For the fulfilment of the task of the gods and the
sages, Visnu and Brahma, with minds fixed in Siva performed
the Japa.

30. O excellent sage, they stood there steady and re-
peated the mantra a crore times uttering the name "Siva"
several times.

igi. The formula runs as follows : 3ff q^: f%3TT 5Pff ^PT

Rudrasarfihita

839

31. In the meantime Siva came into direct view assu-
ming his real form and spoke.

Lord Siva said: —

32. O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods and O sages of aus-
picious rites, I am delighted by your Japa. Speak out the
desired boon.

The gods said: —

33. O Siva, lord of the gods, lord of the universe, if
you are pleased, realising that the gods are unnerved, let the
Tripuras be destroyed.

34. O lord Siva, O merciful one, O kinsman of the
distressed, save us. We, gods, have always been saved from
adversities by you alone.

Sanatkumara said: —

35. O brahmin, on hearing these words uttered by
them including Visnu and Brahma, lord Siva laughed to him-
self and spoke again.

Lord Siva said: —

36. Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, O sages all of you
listen to my words with attention considering that the three
cities have been already destroyed.

37. Hence make arrangements for the chariot, chario-
teer, divine bow and excellent arrows as agreed to by you all.
Do not delay.

38. O Brahma, O Visnu, you are the lord of the three
worlds, to be sure. Hence provide me with the parapher-
nalia of an emperor.

39. You too had been entrusted with the tasks of
creation and sustenance. You shall make all efforts, consider-
ing the destruction of the three cities an act of help to the
gods.

40. This mantra is highly meritorious and auspicious.
It generates the pleasure of the gods. It yields both worlds
by enjoyment and salvation, confers cherished desires and
brings about the happiness of the devotees of Siva.

41. It is conducive to blessedness, fame, longevity to

,840

Sivapurana

those who seek heaven. Those who are free from desires
derive the benefit of salvation.

42. The man who repeats this mantra in purity, hears
or narrates this to anyone, shall attain all desires.

Sanatkumara said: —

43. On hearing these words of Siva, the great Atman,
the gods derived more pleasure than Visnu and Brahma.

44. At his bidding, Visvakarman made a splendid
chariot of good features, consisting of all the gods, for the
welfare of the people.

CHAPTER EIGHT

(The detailed description of the chariot etc)
Vyasa said'. —

1. O Sanatkumara, of good intellect, O omniscient
one, O foremost among the devotees of Siva, this wonderful
story of lord Siva has been narrated to us.

2. Now please mention the structure of the chariot 193
which consisted of all the gods and which had been made by
the intelligent Visvakarman.

Suta said: —

3. On hearing these words of Vyasa, Sanatkumara the
great sage remembered the lotus-like feet of Siva and spoke
thus.

Sanatkumara said: —

4. O sage Vyasa, of great intellect, listen to the des-
cription of the structure of the chariot etc which I shall give
to the extent of my intellect after remembering the lotus-like
feet of Siva.

5. The divine chariot of lord Siva consisting of all the
worlds was built by Visvakarman with devoted effort.

iga. The present account of the cosmic chariot made for Siva tallies
with that in the Matsya Purana (chapter 133).

RudrasarhhitS

841

6. It was appreciated by all. It was golden in colour
and all the elements had gone into its making. The right
wheel was the sun and the left wheel was the moon.

7-8. The right wheel had twelve spokes. O great brah-
min, the twelve Adityas presided over them. The left wheel
had sixteen spokes. O you of excellent rites, the sixteen
spokes of the left side wheel consisted of the sixteen digits of
the moon. All the asterisms embellished the left side.

9. The six seasons constituted the rims of the wheels
of the chariot, O great Brahmin. The Puskara of the chariot
was the sky. The inner side of the chariot was Mandara.

10. The rising and the setting mountains constituted
the poleshafts. Mahameru was the support and the Kesara
mountains the sharp sides.

1 1 . The year constituted its velocity. The two Ayanas
northern and southern constituted the junctions of the wheels
and axles. The Muhurtas constituted the joints and the Kalas
the pins of the yoke.

12. The division of time Kastha constituted the nose
of the chariot and the Ksanas the axle-shaft. The Nimesas
constituted the bottom of the carriage and the minutest divi-
sions of time constituted the poles.

13. The firmament constituted the fender of the chariot;
Heaven and salvation the flag staffs; Abhramu and Kamadh-
enu constituted its harrows at the end of the shafts.

14. The unmanifest principle formed their shaft and
cosmic intellect the chariot's reeds. The cosmic Ego cosmic
corners and elements its strength.

15. O excellent sage, the cosmic sense-organs constituted
the embellishments of this chariot on all sides. Faith was
its movements.

16. The six Vedangas were its ornaments. O great
ones of good rites, the Puranas, Nyaya, MImamsa and Dharma
Sastras constituted the side trinkets.

17. The forceful and excellent mantras with their
syllables and feet, of all characteristic features and the stages
in life constituted the tinkling bells.

18. Ananta embellished with thousand hoods constituted
its fittings and the main and subsidiary quarters, the pedestals
of the chariot.

842

Sivapurana

19. The clouds Puskara and others constituted the gem-
studded banners of glowing colours. The four oceans are
remembered as the bullocks of the chariot.

20. Gaiiga and other rivers shining in excellent female
forms and decorated in all ornaments held the Camaras in
their hands.

21. Taking up their places in the different parts of the
chariot, they brightened it up. The seven courses of the
wind Avaha 193 etc. constituted the excellent steps of gold
leading the chariot.

22. The Lokaloka mountain 194 formed its side steps. The
lake manasa etc. constituted its brilliant outer and oblique
steps.

23. The Varsa mountains constituted the cords and
chains all round the chariot. AH the residents of the region
Tala constituted the bottem surface of the chariot.

24. Lord Brahma was the charioteer, the gods were
holders of the bridle. Pranava the Vedic divinity constituted
the long whip of Brahma.

25. The syllable A constituted the great umbrella,
Mandara the side staff. The lord of mountains became his
bow and the lord of serpents the bowstring.

26. Goddess Sarasvati in the form of the Vedas con-
stituted the bells of the bow. The brilliant Visnu became the
arrow and Agni the spear-head.

27. O sage, the four Vedas are said to be his horses.
The remaining planets became their embellishments.

28. His army came up from water. The winds were
his feathers, wings etc. Vyasa and other sages were the
drivers of the vehicle.

29. O great sage, why should I dilate. I shall succin-
ctly say. Everything in the world found a place in the
chariot.

'»3- arras, sraf, tfsr?, 35$ fsraf, qffcr& q*r^ are

the seven bands of air assigned to the atmospheric region between
^fa> and -fc^ffr |

194. It is a Fabulous belt of mountains bounding the outermost of
' the seven seas and dividing the visible world from the regions of darkness.
H. M.

Rudrasarhhitcl

843

30. At the bidding of Brahma and Visnu the chariot
and its adjuncts were created bythe intelligent Visvakarman.*

CHAPTER NINE

( Siva's campaign)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. Brahma handed over that divine chariot of various
wonderful features to Siva after yoking the Vedas as the
horses.

2. After dedicating the same to Siva, he requested
Siva the lord of the gods, approved by Visnu and other gods
to mount the chariot.

3. The great lord Siva identifying himself with all the
gods got into that chariot that had various scaffoldings attac-
hed to it.

4. He was then eulogised by the gods, Gandharvas,
serpents, sages, Visnu, Brahma and the guardians of the
quarters.

5-6. Siva, the granter of boons, surrounded by the
groups of damsels, experts in music, shone well. Glancing
at the charioteer when he mounted the chariot concocted
with everything in the world, the horses constituted by the
Vedas fell headlong to the ground.

7. The earth quaked. The mountains became tremu-
lous. Sesa, unable to bear his weight, became distressed and

* soon began to tremble.

8. Lord Visnu assumed the form of a lordly bull and
went under the chariot. He lifted it up and steadied it for a
short while.

9. But in another instant, unable to bear the weighty
splendour of lord Siva seated in the chariot, the lordly bull
had to kneel down and crawl on the ground.

10-12. But the lord touched the bridle and steadied the
horses. Then Brahma seated in the excellent chariot drove
the excellent chariot with the velocity of mind and wind, at
the bidding of the lord towards the three cities of the valiant

*On the construction of the Cosmic Chariot compare Matsya P. Ch. 133

844

Sivapurana

Asuras. The cities were then in the sky. Lord Siva was
seated inside.

13. Then lord Siva looked at the gods and said —
"Give me the lordship of the animals. Then I shall kill the
Asuras.

14. O excellent gods, the excellent Asuras can be killed
only after assigning separate animalhood to the gods and
others. Not otherwise."

Sanatkumdra said: —

15. On hearing these words of the intelligent lord of
the gods, they became dispirited growing suspicious of animal
hood.

16. On knowing what was passing through their minds,
Siva, the lord of the gods, the consort of Parvati sympathised
with the gods and laughingly said.

Siva said: —

17. "O excellent gods, you will not fall even in your
animalhood. Let it be heard, and let the process of release
from animalhood be practised.

18. He who performs the divine rite of Pasupata will
be released from animalhood. I promise this to you. Be
attentive.

19. O excellent gods, there is no doubt about it that
those who perform my Paiupata rite will become liberated.

20. He who renders service perpetually or for twelve
years, becomes relieved of animalhood.

21. Hence O excellent gods, perform this divine rite.
You will be released from animalhood. There is no doubt
about this."

ig 1 ). Siva is named Pasupati, the lord of animals. According to the
legend, recorded in the present chapter, every deity was asked by Siva to
declare himself a mere Pasu or animal before Tripuras could be slain in
the battle. The Gjds accepted the proposal, declared themselves as animals
and fought brutally. Lord Siva won them the battle but Gods were still
distressed. The lord then enjoined the observance of Pasupata Vrata for
the attainment of release from their animal nature.

This legend forms the basis for the formulation of Pasupata sect which
aims at the release of a Pasu (the individual soul) from the bondage of re-
birth.

Rudrasarhhita

845

Santakumara said: —

22. On hearing these words of lord Siva, the great
soul, Visnu, Brahma and other gods said. "So be it."

23. Hence all the gods and Asuras became the animals
of the lord. Siva became the lord of animals. He is the
person who unties the nooses of the animals.

24. Then the name Pasupati, that bestows welfare,
spread in all the worlds and became renowned.

25. Then the celestial sage, Indra, Brahma, Visnu and
others rejoiced shouting "Victory."

26. Even in hundreds of years it is impossible to des-
cribe adequately the form of the great soul which he
assumed then.

27. Siva the lord of Parvati and everyone, the bestower
of happiness to all 5 went ahead to destroy the three cities.

28. Then all the gods, resplendent like the sun, under
the lord of the gods and others went on elephants, horses,
lions, bulls and chariots to kill Tripuras, leaders of the
Asuras.

29. The leading gods as huge as mountains went
ahead delighted and well-armed with all sorts of missiles,
plough-shares, mortars, iron clubs and uprooted trees as huge
as mountains.

30. Then Indra, Brahma, Visnu and others went
ahead of lord Siva jubilantly shouting cries of victory to
Siva, well-armed with various weapons and shining
brilliantly.

31. Sages with matted hair and staffs in the hands
rejoiced. Siddhas and Car anas moving about in the sky
showered flowers.

32. O great brahmins, all the Ganesvaras went to the
three cities. Who can enumerate them fully? I shall
mention a few.

33. Bhrngin, the chief of all Ganesas, surrounded by
lord of Ganas and gods went speedily to destroy the three
cities like Mahendra seated in an aerial chariot.

34-39. These were the important ones who were there —
Kesa, Vigatavasa, MahakeSa., Mahajvara, Somavalllsavarna,
Somapa, Sanaka, Somadhrk, Siiryavarcas, Suryapresanaka,
Suryaksa, Surinaman, Sura, Sundara, Praskanda, Kundara,

846

'ivapurana

Canda, Kampana, Atikampana, Indra, Indrajava, Yantr,
Himakara, Sataksa, Paficaksa, Sahasraksa, Mahodara,
Satijahru, Satlsya, Ranka, Karpuraputana, Dvisikha,
Trisikha, Ahamkarakaraka, Ajavaktra, Astavaktra, Hayaka-
raka and Ardhavaktraka. These and other innumerable
lords of Ganas who cannot be characterised and classified
surrounded Siva and went ahead.

40. They were capable of burning the entire world
including the mobile and immobile beings, within a trice
by their very thought. Surrounding Siva, the great lord,
they went ahead.

41. Siva is capable of burning the entire world. Of
what avail are the Ganas, gods, chariot, and arrows to Siva
in order to burn the three cities ?

42. O Vyasa, that trident-bearing lord, of wonderful
power of causing enjoyment and protection, himself went
there with his own Ganas and the gods to burn the three
cities of the enemies of gods.

43. What the reason was, I shall tell you, O excellent
sage. It was to make his glory known to all the worlds,
the glory that dispels all sins and dirt.

44. Another reason was to convince the wicked, since
there is none to excel him among the gods.

CHAPTER TEN

( The burning of the Tripuras)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. Then S iva, the great lord, seated in the chariot
and equipped with everything, got ready to burn the three
cities completely, the cities of the enemies of the gods.

196. The Puriinas ircord different versions of the burning of Tripuri.
The present version is a regular legend based on an ancient tradition. There
is however another version which describes graphically the devastation,
oppression and barbarities practised by the Ganas which remind us of those'
perpetrated by the Huna-chief Mihirakula in his invasions. Theie is a veiled
allusion to this event, for Agni is addressfd as a Mleccha (Matsya p. 188.
51 ). There is no such anachronism in the SP account of Tripuradaha.

Rudrasarhhita

2-3. The lord stood in the wonderful posture of
Pratyalidha for a hundred thousand years. The bow was
well strung and kept near the head. The arrow was
fixed. The fingers clenched at the bow firmly. The eyes
were fixed.

4. Ganesa was stationed on the thumb. During
this time the three cities did not come within the target path
of the trident-bearing lord.

5. Then from the firmament, the odd-eyed Siva who was
standing there holding the bow and the arrow heard an aus-
picious voice.

6. "O lord of the master of the universe, you will
not kill the Tripuras as long as the lord Ganesa is not adored".

7. On hearing these words, Siva the destroyer of
Andhaka called Bhadraka.li and worshipped the elephant-faced
god Ganesa.

8-9. When Ganesa was worshipped, when he standing
ahead was pleased, lord Siva saw the three cities of the
powerful Asuras, sons of Taraka, joined together.

10. It is said that when the great lord Siva, the lord
of the Gods, the supreme Brahman, worshipped by all
is there, it is not proper to say that he achieved success
by another God's grace.

1 1 . He is independent, the great Brahman, both possessed
and devoid of attributes. He is invisible, the supreme soul
and unsullied.

1 2. He is the soul of five divinities. He is worshipped
by the five deities 197 . He is the great lord. There is none else
worthy of worship. He is the ultimate abode of all.

13. Or, O sage, the activities of Siva, the lord of the
Gods, the granter of boons are but proper inasmuch as
they constitute his divine sports.

14. When the great God stood up after woeshipping
Siva, the three cities joined together into one unit.

15. O sage, when the three cities came to a unified

197. The five gods Brahma, Visnu, Rudra, Skanda and Indra (Sec
SP. VS 14 48) are in essence indenticaj with Siva but they have also their
distinct forms in which they remain subservient to him.

According to another version, the five deities are the son, Ganesa,
Durga, Rudra and Vi.snu. See note. 174 P. 168.

848

Sivapurafta.

whole, a tumultuous shout of joy rose up among the noble
Gods and others.

16. Then all the Gods, Siddhas and the sages shouted
out /'Victory" and eulogised Siva who has eight cosmic
bodies 198 .

17-18. Then Brahma and Visnu, the lord of the worlds
said — "The time for killing the Asuras has arrived, O great
God. The three cities of the sons of Taraka have come into
one unified whole. O lord, please perform the task of the
Gods.

19. O lord of the gods please discharge the arrow
and reduce the three cities to ashes lest they should be sep-
arated again."

20. Then stringing the bow tight and fixing the arrow
Pasupata worthy of worship, he thought of the Tripuras.

21. Then lord Siva, an expert in excellent divine sports
for some reason looked at it with contempt.

22. Siva is capable of reducing the three cities to ashes
in a trice. Still lord Siva, the goal of the good bides his time.

23. The lord of gods is capable of burning the three
worlds by a single glance. O lord, for the flourish of our
fame you shall discharge the arrow.

24. On being eulogised by Visnu, Brahma and other
gods, lord Siva desired to reduce the three cities to ashes
with his arrow.

25-26. In the auspicious moment called Abhilasa he
drew the bow and made a wonderful and unbearable
twanging sound. He addressed the great Asuras and pro-
claimed his own name. Siva discharged an arrow that
had the refulgence of countless suns.

27. The arrow which was constituted by Visnu and
whose steel head was fire god blazed forth and burnt the
three Asuras who lived in the three cities. It thereby
removed their sins.

28. The three cities reduced to ashes fell on the earth
girt by the four oceans 109 .

ig8. See Note 89 P. 132.

199. In ancient Indian literature, the four oceans are said to be
surrounding the earth on four sides. Most probably they represent the
Arabian sea in the West, the Indian orean in the south, the Bay of Bengal
in the East and the sea of Japan in the North.

tludrasamhitd

29. Since they had refrained from the worship of Siva,
hundreds of Asuras were burnt by the fire generated by the
arrow. They cried "Ha Ha" in distress.

30. Tarakaksa was burnt along with his two brothers.
He remembered his lord Siva who is favourably disposed to
his devotees.

31. Lamenting in diverse ways and looking up to lord
Siva, he mentally appealed to him.

Tarakaksa said: —

32. "O Siva, you are known to be pleased with us, if
at any future hour you burn us, you will do so along with
our kinsfolk. Let it be in accordance with this truth.

33. What is difficult and inaccessible to the gods and
Asuras has been secured by us. Let our intellect be
purified by our thoughts on you in every birth."

34. O sage, at the bidding of Siva, those Asuras were
burnt and reduced to ashes by the fire 200 even as they were
muttering thus.

35. Other Asuras too, children and old men were
completely burnt out, O Vyasa, at the bidding of Siva and
speedily reduced to ashes.

36. Just as the universe is burnt at the end of a Kalpa
so also every thing and every one there, whether woman or
man or vehicles, was reduced to ashes by that fire.

37. Some women were forced to leave their husbands
necking them and were burnt by the fire. Some were
sleeping, some were intoxicated and some were exhausted
after their sexual dalliance. All were burnt.

38-39. Some who were partially burnt woke up and
rushed here and there. They fell unconscious and fainted.
There was not even a minute particle whether mobile or
immobile which escaped unscathed by that terrible Tripura
fire excepting Maya, the imperishable Visvakarman of the
Asuras.

200. For the detailed description of the burning of Tripurl compare
Matsya P. Ch. 188.

S50

Simpurdria

40. Those who were not opposed to the Gods were
saved by Siva's brilliance, those who devoutly sought refuge
in lord Siva at the time of adversity.

41. Whether Asuras or other beings those whose
collective activities were not destructive were saved; others of
contrary activities were burnt in fire.

42. Hence, all possible efforts shall be made by good
men to avoid despicable activities whereby people waste
away themselves.

43. Let there be no predicament to any as it happened
in regard to the residents of the three cities. This is the
opinion of all. By chance if it happens, let it.

44. Those who worshipped Siva along with their family
attained Ganapati's region, thanks to the worship of Siva.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

{The, Gods' prayer)

Vydsa said: —

1. O son of Brahma, of great intellect, O most exce-
llent among the devotees of Siva, you are blessed. When
the three cities were burnt what did the gods do ?

2. Where did Maya who was spared go ? Where did
the ascetics go ? Please narrate all, if it relates to Siva's story.

Suta said : —

3. On hearing the words of Vyasa, Sanatkumara the
holy son of the creator remembered the feet of Siva and
spoke.

Sanatkumara said: —

4. Listen O Vyasa, son of Paraiara, and of great inte-
llect, to the sin-destroying story of the great lord, who
follows worldly conventions.

5. When the three cities of Asuras were utterly burnt,
the Gods became surprised..

6. The gods including Indra, Visnu and others became
silent and bewildered on seeing the excessively brilliant Siva,

kudraiathhuH

851

7-8. On merely seeing the terrible form of Siva, dazzling
the ten quarters, resembling countless suns in refulgence and
on a par with the fire at the hour of dissolution, and also
the goddess Parvati, the daughter of Himavat, the illustrious
gods stood humbly in their fright.

9. On seeing the army of the gods terrified, the exce-
llent sages did not say anything. They stood all round and
bowed.

10-11. Then Brahma too who was excessively afraid
on seeing Siva's terrible form, was delighted at heart and
fervently prayed along with the gods. Visnu who was also
afraid prayed to Siva the lord of the Gods, the slayer of the
Tripuras, who was accompanied by his consort Parvati, the
lord who is subservient to his devotees.

Brahma said: —

12. "O lord of the gods, O supreme lord, bestower of
blessings to the devotees, be pleased, O bestower of wholesome
blessings to all the gods.

13. Be pleased, O lord of the worlds, be pleased. O
bestower of bliss. Be pleased, O lord Siva. Be pleased, O
supreme lord.

14. Obeisance to you, of the form of Orhkara, O
great lord who enable the devotees to cross the ocean of exis-
tence by your very form. Be pleased, O lord of gods, O
destroyer of the Tripuras, O supreme lord.

15. O Siva, O favourite of your devotees. Obeisance
to you, the lord of many names. Obeisance to you, free
from attributes, O you who are greater than Prakrti and
Purusa.

16. Obeisance to you, free from aberrations, the eternal,
the ever satiated, the resplendent, the unsullied, the divine
one of three attributes.

17. Obeisance to you, possessed of attributes. Obeisance
to you, the lord of heaven. Obeisance to the calm, trident-
bearing Siva.

18. Obeisance to the omniscient, to one who is the
refuge of all. Obeisance to you born in a trice. Obeisance
to Vamadeva, Rudra, the Purusa, accessible to the good.

19. Obeisance to Aghora, to one easily served.

livapurana

Obeisance to you, subservient to the devotees. Obeisance to
Isana, the most excellent, the bestower of bliss to his
devotees.

20. O great lord, save, save us all the frightened gods.
By burning the three cities, the gods have been satisfied and
contented."

21. After eulogising thus, the gods severally bowed to
him. The delighted gods, Brahma, and others, bowed to lord
Siva.

22. Then Brahma himself eulogised lord Siva the des-
troyer of the Tripuras after bowing to him with stooping
shoulders and palms joined in reverence.

Brahma said: —

23. "O holy lord, lord of the gods, O slayer of the
Tripuras, O Siva, O great lord, let my devotion to you remain
eternal.

24. O Siva, let me always remain your charioteer. O
lord of the gods, O supreme lord, be favourable to me
always."

Sanatkumara said: —

25. After thus eulogising Siva who is favourably disposed
to his devotees, with humility, the liberal hearted Brahma
stopped and stood there with stooping shoulders and palms
joined in reverence.

26. Lord Visnu too bowed to lord Siva. With palms
joined in reverence, he eulogised lord Siva.

Visnu said'. —

27. O overlord of the Gods, O great lord, O merciful
one, O kinsman of the distressed. Be pleased, O supreme lord.
Be merciful, O favourite of those who bow to you.

28. Obeisance to you devoid of the attributes. Again
obeisance to you possessed of attributes. Again obeisance to
you of the form of Prakrti and Purusa.

29. Obeisance to you of the form of attributes. Obe-
isance to the soul of the universe. Obeisance to you who
love devotion. Obeisance to Siva the calm one, the great
soul.

Rudrasamhita

853

30. Obeisance to Sadasiva. Obeisance to Siva, the
lord of the worlds. Let my devotion to you steadily increase.

Sanatkumara said: —

31. After saying this, lord Visnu the most excellent of
the great devotees of Siva stopped. Then all the Gods
bowed to him and spoke to lord Siva.

The gods said: —

32. O lord of gods, O great god, O Siva, the merciful.
Be pleased O lord of the worlds. Be pleased O supreme
lord.

33. Be pleased. You are the creator of every thing.
We bow to you joyously. Let our devotion to you be steady
and endless.

Sanatkumara said: —

34. Thus eulogised by Brahma, Visnu and the Gods,
Siva the benefactor of the worlds, the delighted lord of the

gods, replied. J

Siva said : — :

35. O Brahma, O Visnu, O gods, I am very much
pleased with you all. All of you consider carefully and then
let me know the boon you desire.

Sanatkumara said: —

36. On hearing these words mentioned by Siva, O
excellent sage, all the Gods replied delightedly.

The gods said: —

37-38. O lord, if you are pleased, if the boon is
to be granted by you to us, O lord of the master of gods,
after knowing that we the gods are your slaves, then O
most excellent deity, be pleased to appear always whenever
misery befalls us and destroy the misery.

Sanatkumara said: —

39. Thus requested simultaneously by Brahma, Visnu
and the gods, Rudra was pleased in his mind and he said
"Let it be ever so.

854

Sivapurdna

40. I am delighted by these hymns. O gods, I shall
confer on those who read, recite and hear these hymns what-
ever they crave for".

41. Saying this, the delighted Siva the remover of the
distress of gods, gave them every thing that was highly
delightful to all the gods.

CHAPTER TWELVE

{The Gods go back to their abodes )

Sanatkumara said: —

1. In the meantime the Asura Maya who was not
burnt due to the strength of grace, came there on seeing
Siva delighted.

2. With great delight he bowed to Siva and other
gods. With palms joined in reverence and with stooping
shoulders he bowed to Siva again.

3. Then he got up. Maya the foremost among the
Asuras, with his mind full of devotion and voice choked
with emotions of love he eulogised facing Siva.

Maya said: —

4. O great lord, lord of the Gods and favourably
disposed to your devotees, O Siva, you are in the form of
the wish-yielding Kalpa tree and devoid of special leaning
to any side.

5. Obeisance to you O splendour-formed, obeisance to
you omniformed; obeisance to you, O sanctified soul; obeis-
ance to you, O holy one.

6. Obeisance to you of variegated forms; to you, the
eternal one; obeisance to you who extend beyond all forms.
Obeisance to you of divine forms, shapes, and features.

7. Obeisance to die destroyer of the distress of those
who bow to you; obeisance to the welfare-hearted; to the
creator, sustainer and annihilator of the three worlds.

8. O Siva, O consort of ParvatJ, obeisance to you
who are accessible through devotion of the devotees; obeisance

Rudrasamhitd 855

to the compassionate and the bestower of the good Fruits of
penance.

9. O great lord, fond of eulogy, I know not how to
eulogise you. O lord of all, be pleased. Save me who have
sought refuge in you."

Sanatkumdra said: —

10. On hearing this eulogy of Maya, O excellent
brahmin, lord Siva, was delighted and he spoke to Maya
eagerly.

Siva said: —

11. O Maya, I am delighted. O excellent Asura
speak out the boon you wish to have. There is no doubt.
I shall grant you what you desire.

Sanatkumdra said: —

12. On hearing the auspicious words of Siva, Maya
the foremost among the Asuras spoke after bowing to the
lord with stooping shoulders and palms joined in reverence.

Maya said: —

13. ''O great lord, lord of the Gods, if you are deligh-
ted and if I deserve the grant of a boon please grant me
parmanent devotion to you.

14. O supreme lord, grant me comradeship with your
devotees for ever, compassion towards the distressed and in-
difference towards the wicked living beings.

15. O lord Siva, let there be no demonaic instinct in
me at any time. O lord, let me be fearless for ever engros-
sed in your auspicious worship."

Sanatkumdra said; —

16. On being thus requested, Siva the great lord,
. who is favourably disposed to his devotees and was in a

delightful mood replied to Maya.

Lord Siva said : —

17. O excellent Asuras you are my devotees and are

856

Sivapurana

blessed. You are free from aberrations. All the boons desired
by you are granted now.

18. At my bidding, you go to the region Vitala, 201
more beautiful than heaven. Go in the company of your
family and kinsmen.

19. You stay there without fear. Be devout always.
At my bidding you will never have demonaic instinct.

Sanntkumara said : —

20. Receiving this behest of Siva, the great soul with
bowing head and paying homage to him and to the gods he
went to Vitala.

21. In the meantime those heretics of tonsured heads
came there, knelt before Visnu, Brahma and others and
spoke.

22. O gods, where shall we go ? What shall we do
now ? We are ready to carry out your behests. Please
command us quickly.

23. O Visnu, O Brahma, O gods, wicked deeds have
been performed by us. We have destroyed the devotion to
Siva of all the Asuras who were great devotees of Siva.

24. We will have to stay in hell for a countless Kalpas.
Certainly there is no redemption for us that have offended
devotees of Siva.

25. But it was in accordance with your desire that
this wicked deed was perpetrated. Please tell us the mode
of atoning for the same. We have sought refuge in you.

Sanatkurmra said : —

26. On hearing their words Visnu, Brahma and other
gods spoke to the tonsured-heads who stood in front with
joined palms.

Visnu o.nd others said : —

27. "O tonsured ones, you need not be afraid at all.
These excellent activities have taken place at the bidding of
Siva.

am. This is the second of the seven regions descending from the
earth. Cf. Note aio P. 247.

Rudrasarhhita

857

28. Since you are the servants of Siva and have carried
out the activities conducive to the welfare of the gods and
the sages, no mishap shall ever befall you bringing you
to distress.

29. Siva performs deeds conducive to the welfare of
the gods and the sages. He is pleased with those who work
for the welfare of the gods and sages. No mishap befalls
those who work for the welfare of the gods and sages.

30. From now onwards in the Kali age those who
follow this cult will be faced with disastrous results. We tell
you the truth. There is no doubt about it.

31. O brave tonsured heads, till the advent of the Kali
age, you shall stay incognito in the desert region. 202 That is
my behest.

32. When the Kali age begins, you can propagate your
cult. In the Kali age deluded fools will follow your cult.

33. Thus bidden by the great gods, O great sage, the
tonsured heads bowed to them and went to their allotted
abode.

34-35. Then lord Siva, the great Yogin after burning
the residents of the three cities felt contented. He was duly
worshipped by Brahma and others. Then the lord, after
completing the task of the gods, vanished from the scene
accompanied by his Ganas, goddess ParvatI and the sons.

36. When lord Siva had vanished with his followers,
the fortress too vanished along with the bow, arrows, chariot
and other things.

37-38. Then Brahma, Visnu, the gods, sages, Gandhar-
vas, Kinnaras, Nagas, serpents, celestial damsels and the deli-
ghted men went to their abodes praising the glory of Siva.
After reaching their abodes they were highly delighted.

39. Thus the exalted narrative of the moon-crested
lord indicative of the annihilation of Tripuras coupled with
the great divine sports has been narrated to you.

202. The desert (Maru) lying to the north-west of Gujarat and to
the north of Dvaraka is also called the Thar or Rajaputana desert. It
includes a portion of Marwar and Jodhpur area also. It is said to be
famous for its camels. See Sircar GAMI. Gf.

^TPrdtffj-'IdV* III. 7. 19.

858 S'mapurSna

40. It is conducive to wealth, fame, and longevity. It
increases prosperity and possession of food-grains. It yields
heavenly pleasure and salvation. What else do you wish to
hear ?

41. He who reads and hears the exalted narrative
will enjoy all pleasures here and attain salvation hereafter.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

( The Resuscitation of Indra in the context of the destruction of
Jalandhara)

Vydsa said: —

1. O holy lord, son of Brahma, it has been heard by
me before that the lord Siva killed the great Asura Jalan-
dhara.

2. O intelligent one, please narrate the story of the
moon-crested lord in detail. Who can be satiated with listen-
ing to the spotless glory of the lord ?

Suta said: —

3. On being requested thus by Vyasa, the great sage
and son of Brahma of eloquent speech spoke the following
significant words without excitement.

Sanatkumara said:—

4. O sage, once Brhaspati and Indra went to Kailasa
with great devotion, to see lord Siva.

5-6. Coming to know of the arrival of Brhaspati and
Indra eager to see him, lord Siva wished to test their know-
ledge. Accordingly, the lord, the excellent goal of the good,
stood blocking their path in the naked form with matted hair
and beaming face.

7-9. Brhaspati and Indra were walking on gleefully.
On their way they saw this wonderful person of huge size.
He was quiet and composed and very refulgent with matted
hair on his head. He was fair-complexioned with long arms
and wide chest. He was terrible to look at. Without
realising that the person who stood there blocking their path

Rudrasarhhita 859

was Siva himself, Indra who was proud of his authority said
to him.

Indra said : —

10. Oj who are you ? Where have you come from ?
What is your name ? Tell me truly. Is the lord Siva in
his apartment or has he gone anywhere ?

Sanatkumam said : —

11. O sage, on being asked by Indra thus, he did
not say anything. Indra asked him again, But the naked
person did not say anything.

12. Indra, the supreme lord of the worlds, asked again,
lord the great Yagin who assumes forms variously kept

quiet.

13. The naked lord, though asked repeatedly by Indra,
did not say anything, for he wanted to test the knowledge of
Indra.

14. Then the lord of Gods, proud of the wealth of the
three worlds, became enraged. Rebuking the lord with matted
hair he spoke these words.

Indra said: —

15. "O evil-minded one, though asked you did not reply
to me. Hence I am going to kill you with my thunderbolt.
Who can save you?"

Sanatkumara said: —

16. After saying this and looking at him ferociously
Indra raised his thunderbolt in order to kill him.

17. On seeing Indra lifting up his thunderbolt, Siva
prevented the fall of the thunderbolt by making his hand
benumbed.

18. Then Siva became furious. His eyes became terrible.
He blazed with his burning splendour.

19. Then Indra burnt within himself by the benumbing
of his arm like a serpent whose exploits had been curbed by
pronouncing magical formulas. 208

203. For the similarity of idea and verbal expression, cornpare
Kalidasa's Raghuvainia II. 32.

860

Sivapurana

20. On seeing him resplendent, Brhaspati realised
immediately that he was lord Siva himself and bowed to him.

21. Then the noble-minded Brhaspati joined his palms
in reverence. He prostrated before him on the ground and
began to eulogise the lord.

Brhaspati said:—

22. Obeisance to Sivaj the chief lord of the gods,
the supreme soul, the three-eyed, possessed of matted hair.

23. Obeisance to the succouring lord of the distressed,
the destroyer of Andhaka 201 and the Tripuras, and identical
with Brahma, the Paramesthin.

24. Obeisance to Siva of odd eyes, of diverse, deform-
ed and surpassing features, going beyond all forms. *

25. Obeisance to the destroyer of sacrifice of Daksa,
to the bestower of fruits of sacrifice, identical with sacrifice
and the initiator of the greatest rites.

26. Obeisance to Siva the annihilator of Time, of the
form of Time, the wearer of black serpents, the great lord
and the omnipresent.

27. Obeisance to the destroyer of Brahma's head, 205 the
one eulogised by Brahma and the moon. Obeisance to you
favourably disposed to Brahmins. Obeisance to you the
great soul.

28. You are the fire, the wind, the ether, the waters,
the earth, the sun, the moon, the stars, and the solar system.

29. You alone are Visnu, Brahma, and eulogised by
them; you are the great lord, the sages Sanaka etc. You
are Narada the great saint.

30. You alone are the lord of all the worlds, the
soul of the universe. You are converging in everything and
different from everything; you alone are greater than
Prakrti.

204. Andbaia was an Asura of great prowess who became so
arrogant that he attempted to abduct both Siva and Parvatl. A great
battle was fought between the two in the Mahakala forest of Avanti. Siva
slew the Asura and obtained the appellation 'the slayer of Andhaka' for
himself.

205. See Note 43 P. 58.

kudrasarhhita

861

31. With the Rajas attribute you alone create the
worlds assuming the name Brahma. You are identical with
Visnu in Sattva attribute and you protect the entire universe.

32. With the Tamas attribute you assume the form of
Siva, O great God and you alone devour the universe com-
posed of five elements.

33. With the strength of meditating on you, O creator
of the universe, the sun blazes, the moon exudes nectar and
the wind blows.

34. O Siva, with the strength of meditating on you,
the clouds shower water. Indra protects the worlds like his
sons.

35. With the strength of meditating on you, the clouds,
the gods and the great sages carry on their tasks. They are
afraid of you.

36. O Siva, by serving your lotus like feet, the people
in the world do not honour the gods and they enjoy the
prosperity of the world.

37. By serving your lotus like feet the people attain the
supreme goal inaccessible to every one and unattainable even
to Yogins.

Sanatkumdra said: —

38. After eulogising Siva, the benefactor of the worlds
thus Brhaspati made Indra fall at the feet of Siva.

39. After making Indra, lord of the gods, fall at his feet
with bowed head, Brhaspati humbly spoke these words to
Siva with bowed head.

Brhaspati said: —

40. O great lord, favourable to the distressed, please
raise up Indra fallen at your feet. Please quieten the anger
rising from your eyes.

41. O great lord, be pleased. Protect Indra who has
sought refuge in you. Let this fire rising from the eye in
the forehead be rendered calm.

Sanatkumara said: —

42. On hearing these words of Brhaspati, Siva, the

lord of Gods, the ocean of mercy, spoke in a thundering
stentorian voice.

Lord Siva said: —

43. O Brhaspati, how can I take up the fury that
has already come out of my eye ? A serpent does not wear
again the slough that has been cast off.

Sanatkumara said: —

44. On hearing these words of Siva, Brhaspati's mind
was agitated with fear and he spoke dejectedly.

Brhaspati said : —

45. O holy lord, indeed the devotees should be pitied
always. O Siva, thus please make your name Bhaktavatsala
(favourably disposed towards the devotees) true.

46. O lord of gods, you deserve to cast elsewhere the
fierce brilliance. O uplifter of all devotees, raise up Indra.

Sanatkumara said : —

47. On being addressed thus by Brhaspati the delighted
Siva, the destroyer of the distress of those who bow to him
and the one named Bhaktavatsala replied thus to Brhaspati.

Siva said: —

48. O dear one, I am delighted by your eulogy. I
shall grant you the excellent boon. Henceforth you shall
be famous as Enlivener because you have conferred life on
Indra.

49. I shall cast off this fire born of my eye in the fore-
head intended to kill Indra lest it should afflict him.

50. On saying this he held that wonderful brilliance
born of the eye in the forehead 206 and cast it off in the briny
ocean.

51. Then the lord Rudra of great divine sports vanish-

206. &va^ is represented as the three-eyed God. His third eye which
stands in the middle of his forehead is very destructive. It reduced Kama
to ashes.

This eye usually remains closed. But when it opens, its glance works
■ havoc. At the periodical dissolution of the universe j it destroys all the gods
and created beings.

ftudrasafftkitd

ed from the scene. Brhaspati and Indra were relieved of
their fright and they became happy.

52. After having the immediate perception of Siva for
which they had come here, Brhaspati and Indra became con-
tented and went away to their abodes joyously.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

{The birth of Jalandhara and his marriage}
Vyasa said : —

1. O omniscient Sanatkumara, son of Brahma, obeisance
be to you. This wonderful story of Siva, the great soul, has
been heard.

2. O sage, when the brilliance born of the eye in the
forehead had been cast off into the briny ocean, O dear sir,
what happened ? Please narrate it quickly.

Sanatkumara said: —

3. O dear one of great intellect, listen to the extre-
mely wonderful sport of Siva, on hearing which with faith a
devotee attains the goal of Yogins.

4. The brilliance of Siva born of the eye in the fore-
head and cast off into the briny sea 207 immediately assumed
the form of a boy.

5. At the confluence of the river Ganga. and the
ocean, the boy of terrific features cried loudly.

6. At the sound of the crying boy, the earth quaked
frequently. The heaven and the Satyaloka became deafened
at the noise.

7. All the worlds were frightened. The guardians of
the quarters became agitated in the mind.

8. O dear holy one, O great brahmin, the entire world
including the mobile and immobile quaked at the cries of
the boy.

9. Then the distressed gods and the sages immediately

207. The ocean of salt (lavanambhodhi) stands to the west of
Bhlratavarsa and is identical with the Arabian sea. The confluence of
the Indus and this ocean (Sindhu-Sagara-sangama) is the plare where
Jalandhara was born.

§&4 SivapuraQA

sought refuge in Brahma the grandfather and preceptor of
the worlds.

10. After going there, those sages and the gods includ-
ing Indra bowed to and eulogised Brahma and spoke these
words.

The gods said: —

11. ''This mysterious sound has arisen. O lord of
worlds, O lord of gods, we are frightened. O great Yogin
please quell it."

Sanatkumdra said : —

12. On hearing their words, Brahma the grandfather
of the worlds wished to go there. He was perplexed as to
what it was.

13. Then Brahma descended from Satyaloka to the
Earth along with the gods. Then he went to the ocean desi-
rous of knowing what it was.

14. When Brahma the grandfather of the worlds came
there, he saw the boy in the lap of the ocean-

15. On seeing Brahma coming, the ocean assuming
the form of a god bowed to him and placed the boy in his
lap.

16. Then the surprised Brahma spoke these words to
the ocean — "O ocean, tell me quickly about the parentage
of this boy."

Sanatkumara said: —

1 7. On hearing the words of Brahma, the ocean was
delighted. After bowing to and eulogising him with palms
joined in reverence he replied to Pr^japati Brahma-

The ocean said : —

18. "O Brahma, O lord of the worlds, this boy was
suddenly seen in the confluence of the river Ganga, I do
not know about the origin of this boy.

19. O preceptor of the universe, you perform the post-
natal rites for this boy- O creator, let me know your predi-
ctions about his future according to his horoscope"

kudrasarhhita

865

Sanatkumara said: —

20. Even as the ocean said these words, the son of the
ocean caught hold of the neck of Brahma and shook it several
times.

21. In due course tears came out of the eyes of Brahma,
the creator of all the worlds, afflicted by the joggling and
jolting.

22. Brahma somehow extricated himself from the grip
of the son of the ocean by means of his hands and spoke to
the ocean.

Brahma said: —

23. "O ocean, listen, I shall narrate the future as predi-
cted from the horoscope, entirely. Be attentive please.

24. Since he was able to make my eyes water let
him be famous in the name of Jalandhara.

25-26. He will become a youth now itself. He will
become a master of all sacred lores, very valorous, courage-
ous, heroic, invincible and majestic like you. Like Karttikeya
he will be the conqueror of all in battles. He will shine
with all sorts of prosperity.

27. This boy will become the emperor of Asuras.
He will conquer even Visnu. He will face defeat from no
quarter.

28. He cannot be slain by any one except Siva. He
will return to the place from where he sprang up.

29. His wife will be a chaste lady who will increase
good fortune. She will be exquisitely beautiful in every limb.
She will be an ocean of good conduct and will speak pleas-
ing words.

Sanatkumara said: —

30. After saying so he called Sukra and performed
his coronation. Brahma then took leave of the ocean and
disappeared.

31. Thereafter the ocean with blooming eyes saw the
son, took him to his abode joyously.

32. With a joyous heart he nurtured the boy with
diverse great means. The boy grew into a beautiful youth of
exquisite limbs and wonderful splendour.

866

Sivapuffina

33. Then the ocean invited the great Asura Kalanemi
and requested him to give his daughter named Vrnda in
marriage to his son.

34. O sage, the heroic Asura Kalanemi, 208 foremost
among the Asuras, intelligent and efficient in his activities,
welcomed the request of the ocean.

35. He gave his beloved daughter to Jalandhara, the
brave son of the ocean, in marriage performing the nuptial
rites according to the Brahma style.*

36. O sage, great festivities were held in the marriage.
The rivers and Asuras were happy.

37. The ocean too became extremely happy seeing his
son united to a bride. In accordance with the rules he made
charitable gifts to the brahmins and others.

38. Those Asuras who had been formerly defeated by
the gods and had sought shelter in Patala came fearlessly to
the Earth and resorted to him.

39. Kalanemi and other Asuras were pleased after
giving the daughter in marriage to the son of the ocean. In
order to defeat the gods they resorted to him.

40. The heroic son of the ocean, Jalandhara, foremost
among the Asura warriors, received a very beautiful lady as
his wife and he ruled over the kingdom with the support of
Sukra.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

{The fight between the gods and Jalandhara)

1. Once the son of the ocean, the noble-hearted hus-
band of Vrnda, was seated along with his wife and the
Asuras.

2. The brilliant Bhargava came there joyously illumi-
nating the ten quarters as the embodied brilliance.

3. On seeing the preceptor coming, the Asuras were

208. Kalanemi, the great Asura, was the son of Virocana and the
great-grandson of Hiranyaka&pu. His daughter Vrnda was married to
Jalandhara.

*Cp. MS. iii. 27.

RudrasaThhiia

delighted in their minds and bowed to him. The son of the
ocean too respectfully bowed to him.

4. After bestowing his benediction on them, Bhargava,
the storehouse of splendour, sat on a beautiful seat. They too
resumed their seats as before.

5. Then the heroic son of the ocean, Jalandhara, saw
his Assembly and was delighted to observe that his sway was
unmitigated.

6. Seeing the headless Rahu 209 seated there, the son of
the ocean, the emperor of the Asuras, immediately asked
Bhargava.

Jalandhara said: —

7. O lord, by whom was this done to Ra.hu ? By
whom was his head cut ? Please tell me, O preceptor, every-
thing in detail as it had happened.

Sanatkumara said: —

8. On hearing the words of the ocean's son, Bhargava
remembered the lotus-like feet of Siva and replied exactly as
it had happened.

Bhargava said: —

9* O Jalandhara, O great hero, O benefactor of the
Asuras, listen to the account. I shall relate everything exactly
as it had happened.

10. Once there was a strong hero Bali, the son of
Virocana and great-grandson of Hiranyaka^ipu. He was fore-
most among the virtuous.

1 1 . The gods including Indra being defeated by him
sought refuge in Visnu. Eager to gain their ends they told
him all details.

12. O dear, at his bidding, the gods, very clever in
deception, made an alliance with the Asuras, to further
their own interest.

13. All those gods, the assistants of Visnu churned

209. The Asura Rabu, son of Vipracitti and Sirhbika, is known
as the guardian of the south-west quarter. It is said that when the gods
produced the Amrta by churning the ocean, he disguised himself as a god
and drank some of it. But he was detected by the gods and produced
before Visnu who cut off his head.

Sivapurairia

the ocean eagerly for the gain of nectar, along with the
Asuras.

14. The enemies of the Asuras extracted jewels from
the ocean. The gods seized the nectar and drank it deceitfully.

15. Then the gods including Indra increased in
strength and prowess by the drinking of the nectar and harass-
ed the Asuras with the assistance of Visnu.

16. This Visnu who is always a partisan of Indra,
cut off the head of Ra.hu as he was drinking the nectar along
with the gods.

Sanatkumara said: —

17-18. Thus Bhargava narrated in detail the story of
the headless Rahu, of the churning of the ocean pursued
by the gods for the gain of nectar, of the removal of the
jewels, of the drinking of the Amrta by the gods and of the
harassment to the Asuras.

19. Then on hearing about the churning of his father,
the heroic son of the ocean, the valorous Jalandhara became
furious and his eyes turned red with anger.

20. Then he called his excellent emissary Ghasmara
and told him everything what the wise preceptor had said to
him.

21. He then lovingly honoured the clever emissary in
various ways, assured him of protection and sent him to
Indra as his messenger.

22. Ghasmara, the intelligent emissary of Jalandhara.,
hastened to heaven 210 where all the gods were present.

23. After going there, the emissary entered the assem-
bly of the gods. 211 With his head kept straight as a token of
haughtiness he spoke to lord Indra.

Ghasmara said: —

24. Jalandhara, the son of the ocean, is the lord and
emperor of all the Asuras. He is excessively heroic and valo-
rous. He has the support and assistance of Bhargava.

a to. Trivistapa or Tripi?{apa is the city of Indra supposed to be
situated on Mount Meru.

2ii. Sudharma is the hall of Indra. It is the unrivalled gem of
princely courts. See H. M.

Rudrasarhhitd

869

25. I am his emissary. I have been sent by him. I
have come to you here. My name is Ghasmara but I am
not a devourer.

26. He is of exalted intellect. His behest has never
been defied. He has defeated all the enemies of Asuras.
Please listen to what he says.

Jalandhara said: —

27. "O base god, why was my father, the ocean,
churned by you with the mountain ? Why were all the
jewels of my father taken away ?

28. What you have done is not proper. Return all of
them to me immediately. Pondering over this, come along
with the gods and seek refuge in me.

29. Otherwise, O base god, you will have a great
cause to fear. You will run the risk of the annihilation of
your kingdom."

Sanatkumara said: —

30. On hearing the words of the messenger, Indra 5 the
the lord of the gods, was bewildered. Remembering the
previous incidents he was frightened as well as angry. He
spoke to him thus.

3 1 . Indra said. He gave shelter to the mountains who
were terribly afraid of me. Others too, some of my enemies,
the Asuras, were formerly saved by him.

32 It was due to this that I took away his jewels. Those
who oppose me can never remain happy. I am telling you
the truth.

33. Formerly the Asura Sankha 212 the son of the ocean
was stupid enough to be inimical to me. He was spared by
me because he was associated with saintly men.

34. But when his predilection became sinful and he
became violent towards saintly men, he was killed in the
interior of the ocean by Visnu, my younger brother.

2ia. The Asura Sarikha was killed by Vi?nu for his defiant and
oppressive attitude.

870

Sivapurana

35. Hence O messenger, go immediately and explain
to the Asura, son of the ocean, our purpose for churning the
ocean."

Sanatkumara said: — ■

36. Dismissed thus by Indra, the intelligent emissary
Ghasmara hastened to the place where the heroic Jalandhara
was present.

37. All the words thus spoken by Indra were narrated
to the king of Asuras by the intelligent emissary.

38. On hearing it, the lips of the Asura throbbed with
anger. Desirous of conquering the gods he exerted himself
immediately.

39. In that enterprise of the lord of the Asuras, count-
less Asuras from all the quarters and the nether region took
part and helped him.

40. Then the extremely heroic and valorous son of the
ocean set forth with countless generals, Sumbha, Ni^umbha
and others.

41. Very soon, he reached the heaven along with his
force. He blew his conch. All the heroic soldiers roared.

42. After going to heaven he stationed himself in
Nandana. In the midst of all his forces he roared like a
lion.

43. On seeing a vast army surrounding the city, the
gods came out of Amaravat! fully equipped with armour
for the battle.

44-45. Then a battle between the armies of the gods
and Asuras ensued. They rushed against one another with
iron clubs, arrows, maces, axes and spears. They hit one
another. Within a short time both the armies began to
wade through streams of blood.

46. In that battle, the ground shone like the dusk with
clouds scattered all round, for it was strewn with elephants,
horses, chariots and foot-soldiers. Some were killed and others
were being killed.

47. Bhargava resuscitated the Asuras killed in the battle
with the Vidya of Amrtajivini and drops of water infused
with mantras.

Rudrasarhhita

871

48. The sage Angiras 213 too resuscitated the gods in the
battle with the divine herbs frequently brought from the
mountain Drona. 214

49. Jalandhara saw the gods restored to life again in
the battle. He then spoke angrily to Bhargava.

Jalandhara said: —

50. "The gods have been killed by me. How do they
rise up again? The Vidya of Sanjivinl* has not been heard
by me to exist elsewhere."

Sanatkumara said: —

51. On hearing these words of the son of the ocean,
the delighted Bhargava, the preceptor, replied to Jalandhara.

Bhargava said: —

52. "Angiras is bringing divine herbs from the
mountain Drona and enlivening the gods. O dear, know
my words to be true.

53. O dear, if you wish for victory listen to my
auspicious suggestion. Immediately you shall uproot the
mountain Drona with your arms and hurl it into the
ocean."

Sanatkumara said: —

54. Thus addressed by his preceptor Bhargava, the
lord of the Asuras, hastened to the lofty mountain.

55. With his powerful arms, the Asura brought the
mountain Drona and hurled it immediately into the ocean.
There is nothing wonderful and mysterious in regard to the
splendour of Siva.

56. The great hero, the son of the ocean, took a vast

213. Brhaspati is called Arigiras. In fact, Angiras, born of the coals
from the semen of frajapati was the father of Brhaspati.

214. It is a mythical mountain abounding in herbs efficacious for
restoring the dead to life. It was thrown in the ocean by Jalandhara to
prevent the gods using its herbs for the resuscitation of their dead. How-
ever there is a mountain of this name in Kuraaon, 16 milrs from
Ranilchct in the district of Almora. See Bajpai, G E.

*Amriajivxni was a secret lore that restored the dead to life. This
was the exclusive possession of Bhargava (Sukra), the preceptor of the
Asuras.

872

Sivapurarfa

army with him, came to the battle ground and began to
kill the gods with various weapons.

57. On seeing the gods being killed Brhaspati went
to the mountain Drona. Then he, the object of praise and
worship by the gods, did not see the mountain there.

58. On realising that the mountain Drona had been
removed by the Asuras, Brhaspati was terrified. He returned
and said dejectedly.

Brhaspati said: —

59. "O gods, run away, all of you. There is no
trace of the great mountain Drona. Certainly it has been
destroyed by the Asura, the son of the ocean.

60. Jalandhara is a great Asura. He cannot be
conquered since he is bora of a part of Siva. He will
pound all the gods.

61 . His power has been understood by me as he is
self-born. O gods, all of you remember the act of offence
to Siva perpetrated by Indra.

Sanatkumara said'. —

62. On hearing these words uttered by the preceptor
of the gods, they abandoned all hopes of victory. They
became excessively terrified.

63. All the gods including Indra, struck by the king
of the Asuras all round, lost courage and fled in all
directions.

64. On seeing the gods routed, the Asura, Jalandhara,
the son of the ocean, entered Amaravati 316 with sounds of
victory from the conches and drums.

65. When the Asura entered the city, Indra and
other gods entered the cavern of the golden mountain Meru
and remained there. They had been extremely harrassed by
the Asuras.

66. O sage, at the same time the Asura appointed
Sumbha and other Asuras severally in the places of authority
of Indra and others. He then went into the cavern of the
golden mountain.

S15. It is the mythical capital of Indra's heaven, situated on the
golden mount Meru.

Rudrasamhita

873

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

( The battle of the gods)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. On seeing the Asura coming again, the gods inclu-
ding Indra trembled with fear. They fled together.

2. With Brahma at the head they went to Vaikuntha.
All of them including Prajapati eulogised Visnu after bowing
down to him.

The gods said: —

3. O Hrsikesa of long arms, O lord, O slayer of
Madhu, O lord of gods, Obeisance to you, O destroyer of
all Asuras.

4. O Visnu, of the form of fish 216 who redeemed the
Vedas through king Satyavrata, obeisance to you who
sport about in the ocean of Dissolution.

5. Obeisance to you of the form of Tortoise who bore
the mountain Mandara of the gods who were attempting
to churn the ocean.

6. Obeisance to you O holy lord, of the form of Boar.
Obeisance to you who hold the earth, the support of people.
Obeisance to Visnu.

7. Obeisance to you, the Dwarf. Obeisance to Visnu
the younger brother of Indra, the lord who deceived the king
of Asuras in the guise of a Brahmin.

8. Obeisance to Parasurama who exterminated the
Ksattriyas, who rendered help to your mother. Obeisance
to you who are angry and inimical to the evil beings.

9. Obeisance to Rama who delighted the worlds and
who set the limits of decent behaviour. Obeisance to you
the destroyer of Ravana and the lord of Sita.

10. Obeisance to you of hidden knowledge; to Krsna
the great Atman; the sportive paramour of Radha;
Obeisance to him of diverse divine sports.

316. The god's eulogy to Visnu enumerates fbe various forms of
Visnu including his nine incarnations, viz. Matsya, Kurma, Varaha,
Vamatia, Parasurama, Rama, Krsria, Buddha and Kalki. But it is not
intelligible why it shall omit his Nrsirhha incarnation. Most probably
some lines seem to be missing here.

874

Sivapuratfa

H. Obeisance to the preceptor of Yoga; Obeisance
to you, O lord of LaksmT, of the form of Jaina and
Bauddha; to you of hidden body and features and the
censurer of the Vedas.

12. Obeisance to you of the form of Kalki; the
destroyer of outcastes 217 . Obeisance to him of infinite power
and who establishes good virtue.

13. Obeisance to you of the form of Kapila of great
soul and who expounded the doctrines of Samkhya and
Yoga to Devahuti; O lord, obeisance to you the preceptor
of Samkhya.

14. Obeisance to great yogin and saint who
expounds the great wisdom. Obeisance to the creator of
the form of knowledge whereby the soul is delighted.

15. Obeisance to you of the form of Vedavyasa who
classified the Vedas and who wrote the Puranas for the
welfare of the worlds.

16. Obeisance to you who are ready to perform the
task of the devotees through incarnations of Fish etc. O
lord, obeisance to you of the form of Brahman, the cause
of creation, sustenance and annihilation.

17. Obeisance to the destroyer of the distress of your
servants; the bestower of auspicious happiness. Obeisance to
you wearing yellow robes, having Garuda for your vehicle 218 .
Obeisance to the performer of all rites. Obeisance to the
sole doer. Obeisance to the one worthy of being resorted to.

18. O thunderbolt for the destruction of misery etc.
of the gods harassed by the Asuras. Obeisance to you lying
on the Serpent-bed 219 . Obeisance to the one who has sun and
the moon for his eyes.

19. O lord of Laksmi, O ocean of mercy, save us
who have sought refuge in you. All the gods have been
driven out of heaven by Jalandhara.

217. The reference to the Mlecchas indicates that the author of the
Puraiia was aware of the barbarous tribes — Huns and others who perpet-
rated heinous atrocities on Indian people.

218. For details sec ,Dange : the Garuda-legend in "the Legends in
the MB.".

219. Visnu is represented as reclining on Serpent Sesa. A vivid
picture of isesasayl Visnu is depicted on the outer wall of the Dasavatara
temple at Deogarh. For this illustration see Agrawal, Matsya Purarta —
A Study P. 200.

Rudrasarhhita

875

20. The sun has been dislodged from his post.
Similarly the moon and the fire too have been removed.
The Serpent-king has been removed from Patala and
Dharmaraja has been dispossessed.

21. While men freely move about, the gods do not
shine. We have sought refuge in you. Let measures for
his annihilation be thought of.

Sanatkumara said: —

22. On hearing these piteous entreaties of the gods,
Visnu the slayer of Madhu, the ocean of mercy, spoke in a
thundering voice.

Visnu said: —

23. "O gods, cast off your fear. I shall come to the
battle-ground. I shall show my valour to Jalandhara."

24. Having said this with distressed mind, Visnu the
enemy of the Asuras got up quickly. The god Visnu who is
favourably disposed to his devotees immediately mounted
his vehicle Garuda.

25. On seeing her lord departing along with the gods,
Laksmi, the daughter of the ocean, spoke with palms joined
in reverence and tears welling up in the eyes.

26. "O lord, I am your beloved. If I am always
devoted to you, O storehouse of mercy, how does my
brother's death be at your hands. ,

Visnu said: —

27-28. Since I have been eulogised by the gods I
shall go to the battle ground immediately. I can only
show my valour to the Asura Jalandhara. He cannot be
slain by me because he is a part of Siva. Moreover
Brahma has said so. Further, you love him too."

Sanatkumara said: —

29. Having said this and seating himself on Garuda
with the conch, discus, mace and the sword held in his
hands, Visnu hastened to the fight along with Indra and
other gods.

30. Roaring like a lion and accompanied by the gods

876

Sivapur3i}a

who blazed with Visnu's splendour, he reached the place
where Jalandhara was waiting.

31. Then the Daityas afflicted by the gusts of wind
set in motion by the wings in the speedy flight of the
younger brother of Aruna (i.e Garuda) 220 were blown here
and there like the clouds in the sky tossed about in a stormy
whirlwind. *

32. Then on seeing the Asuras afflicted by the gusts
of wind, Jalandhara rushed against Visnu shouting out cries
of bravery angrily.

33. In the meantime the delighted gods equipped with
a vast army began to fight with their strength increased by
the brilliance of Visnu.

34. Seeing the army of the gods present there ready
to fight Jalandhara commanded the invincible Asuras thus.

Jalandhara said: —

35. O Excellent Asuras, put up a stiff fight with
Indra and other gods who are always cowardly though they
have a huge army.

36-37. At my bidding let all these come out with
their entire army — the Mauryas numbering a hundred
thousand, the Dhiimras in hundreds, the Asuras and the
Kalakeyas in crores and the Kalakas, the Daurhrdas and
the Kankas in lakhs.

38. All of you come out readily equipped with many
divisions of the army and different kinds of weapons. Be
fearless and free from hesitations.

39. O Sumbha, O Nisumbha, destroy in a trice the
insignificant gods who feel nervous in the battle field. You
are extremely valorous.

Sanatkumara said: —

40-41. Thus the Asuras clever and efficient, in battle,
commanded by Jalandhara on the one hand and gods
equipped with the four sorts of fighting groups on the other

a2o. Garuda, the vehicle of Visnu, is called Arunanuja, i.e. the
younger brother of Aruria the charioteer of the sun.

♦The verse 31 and the first half of the verse 3a of this chapter are
repeated in Ch. 17 after the verse No. 7.

kudrasarhhitd

fought one another with maces, arrows, javelins, spears etc.
They hit one another with axes and spears.

42. The strong ones hit and struck with different
weapons. The heroic gods supported and invigorated by
Hrsikes'a roared like lions and discharged sharp arrows.

43. Some fought with arrows of very sharp points;
some with pestles and iron clubs and some with axes and
spears.

44. Thus the fight between the gods and the Asuras
was terrific. It was very fierce frightening the sages and the
Siddhas.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

( The fight between Visum and Jalandhard)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. Then the heroic Asuras hit and struck the gods
distressed and terrified, with the spears, axes and clubs.

2. With their bodies cut and pierced by the weapons
of the Asuras, the gods including Indra became distressed in
mind by fear and they fled from the battle.

3. On seeing the gods fleeing, Visnu hastened to the
battle ground seated on his vehicle Garuda.

4. By means of his discus Sudargana he diffused his
splendour all round. He shone with the brilliant lotus in
his hand and offered fearlessness to his devotees.

5. Holding the conch, sword, mace and the bow, the
heroic deity was very furious. He was efficient in the battle
using fierce weapons.

6. He produced the twanging sound from his bow
and roared aloud. O sage, all the three worlds were filled
with its loud sound.

7. The lord Visnu who was highly infuriated cut off
the heads of countless Asuras by means of the arrows
discharged from his bow.

8. Then the Asuras afflicted by the gusts of wind set
in motion by the wings of Garuda in his speedy flight

Swapurdnd

were blown to and fro like the clouds in the sky tossed
about in a stormy whirlwind.

9. On seeing the Asuras afflicted by the gusts of
wind Jalandhara the great Asura became furious and terrified
all the gods.

10. Seeing Visnu suppressing and pounding the Asuras,
the lips of the heroic Asura throbbed and he rushed at
Visnu to fight with him.

1 1 . The king of Asuras shouted and roared terrifying
both the gods and the Asuras. On hearing it, the ears became
pierced.

12. The entire universe, filled with the terrible shouts
of the Asura Jalandhara, quaked.

13. Then a great battle ensued between Visnu and
Jalandhara, the ruler of Asuras, both filling up the sky with
their arrows.

14. O sage, gods, Asuras, sages and the Siddhas were
very much surprised at the terrible mutual clash between
the two.

15. Striking with a single arrow, Visnu smote the heart
of the Asura. With innumerable arrows he cut off the
umbrella, banner, bow and arrows of the demon.

16. Seizing the mace with his hand, the Asura jumped
up quickly, hit Garuda on his head and felled him to the
ground.

17. The infuriated Asura. with throbbing lips hit
Visnu in his heart with his sharp spear diffusing its
splendour.

18. Visnu laughingly split the mace with his sword.
The destroyer of Asuras twanged his bow and split him with
sharp arrows.

19. Visnu the infuriated destroyer of the Asuras
smote the Asura Jalandhara with a very sharp terrifying
arrow.

20. On seeing his arrow coming, the powerful Asura
cut it off with another arrow and hit Visnu in the chest.

21. The heroic Visnu of long arms split the arrow
discharged by the Asura to the size of gingelly seeds and
roared.

hudrasamhita

879

22. The infuriated great Asura fixed an arrow again
to his bow and split the arrow of Visnu.

23. Vasudeva fixed another arrow to his bow for the
destruction of the enemy of the gods angrily and roared like
a lion.

24. Biting his lips with anger, Jalandhara the power-
ful king of Asuras split the bow of Visnu with his arrow.

25. The heroic Asura of fierce valour, terrible to the
gods, hit Visnu again with very sharp arrows.

26. With his bow split, the lord Visnu, protector of
the worlds, hurled his great mace for the destruction of
Jalandhara.

27. That mace resembling a blazing flame when
hurled by Visnu moved with unerring aim and dashed
against his body.

28. Though hit by it, the great haughty Jalandhara
did not move even slightly as though he was hit by a
flower-garland.

29. Then the infuriated Jalandhara, invincible in war,
terrifying to the Asuras hurled a trident, resembling fire,
at Visnu.

30. Immediately Visnu remembered the lotus-like
feet of Siva and cut the trident with his sword Nandaka.

31. When the trident was split, the lord of the
Asuras leapt and rushed against Visnu and hit him in the
chest with his fist.

32. Without minding the pain in the least, the heroic
Visnu hit Jalandhara in the chest with his firm fist.

33. Then both of them equally powerful had a hand
to hand fight hitting each other with arms, fists and knees.
They filled the earth with reverberating sounds.

34. Fighting with the Asura thus, for a long time, O
excellent sage, Visnu was surprised. He felt dejected in the
heart.

35. Then he the foremost among the magic-wielders
assumed a delightful aspect. He addressed the king of
Asuras in a thundering voice.

Visnu said: —

36. "O excellent Asura, you are blessed. You are

880

&vapurdtia

invincible in war. Since you are & great lord you are not
at all afraid of even great weapons.

37. Many Asuras have been killed by these very same
weapons in great battles. The wicked and haughty people
have been pierced through their bodies and killed.

38. O great Asura, I am delighted by this fight with
you. You are really great. A hero like you has not been
seen in the three worlds including the mobile and immobile
beings.

39. O lord of Asuras, choose a boon. I am pleased
at your valour. I shall give you anything even that which
cannot be given, whatever is in your mind.

Sanatkumara said: —

40. On hearing these words of Visnu, skilled in
magic, the intelligent king of the Asuras replied thus.

Jalandhara said: —

41. O Brother-in-law, if you are pleased give me this
boon. You stay in my house with all your followers, my
sister and myself.

Sanatkumara said: —

42. On hearing these words of the great Asura, lord
Visnu, the lord of gods, said distressingly — "So be it."

43. Then Visnu came to the city called Jalandhara 221
along with his followers, the gods and laksmi.

44. Then the Asura Jalandhara returned to his abode
and stayed very delightedly in the company of his sister
and Visnu.

45. Thereafter Jalandhara appointed Asuras in the
authoritative posts of the gods. Joyously he returned to the
Earth.

46. The son of the ocean confiscated whatever gem
or jewel the gods, Gandharvas or Siddhas had hoarded.

47. After appointing the powerful Asura, Nisumbha,

32i. The town of the Daitya Jalandhara can be identified with
that of the same name in the East Punjab. It was the capital of Jalan-
dhara Desa in the Uttarapatha. For details see the Kumarikakhanda of
Skandapurana.

tiudrasarhhita

in the nether-worlds, the powerful ruler of the Asuras
brought Sesa and others to the Earth.

48. Making gods, Gandharvas, Siddhas, Serpents,
Raksasas and human beings, the denizens of his capital,
he ruled over the three worlds.

49. After making the gods thus subservient to himself,
Jalandhara protected them all virtuously, like his own sons.

50. When he was ruling the kingdom virtuously, none
in his realm was sick or miserable or lean and emaciated
or indigent.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

( The conversation between Narada and Jalandhara )

Sanatkumara said: —

1. When the great Asura was ruling over the Earth
virtuously, the gods were reduced to be mere slaves, O
great sage.

2. The distressed gods mentally sought refuge in
Siva the benefactor, lord of gods and of everyone.

3. They eulogised the great lord, the bestower of
everything and favourably disposed to his devotees, by means
of pleasant words.

4. The great lord, the bestower of all desires to his
devotees called Narada and commissioned him with a desire
to carry out the task of the gods.

5. Then the celestial sage, the wise devotee of Siva,
the goal of the good, went to the gods in the city of the
Asuras at the bidding of Siva.

6. On seeing the sage Narada coming, the distressed
gods, Indra and others, stood up.

7. After bowing to the sage, Indra and other gods,
their anxiety apparently manifest in their faces, offered a seat
to Narada.

8. After bowing to Narada the great sage who sat com-
fortably, the distressed gods, Indra and others spoke
to him again.

Sivapuraria

The gods said: —

9. O excellent sage, listen to our misery. O merciful
one, after listening to it, destroy it quickly. You are power-
ful and the favourite of Siva.

10. The gods have been routed by the Asura
Jalandhara from their abodes and positions of controlling
authority. Hence we are miserable and distressed.

11. The hot-rayed sun and the moon have been ousted
from their positions. The fire-god and the god of death and
guardians of the quarters have been expelled.

12. The gods have been harassed by that powerful
Asura. We who have been subjected to great grief now
seek refuge in you.

13. The great Asura Jalandhara who has suppressed
the gods and who is very powerful has made Visnu sub-
servient to him in the battle.

14. Becoming Subservient because of helplessness occa-
sioned by the boon granted to him, Visnu who carried out
our tasks has now begun to stay in his palace along with
Laksml.

15. O intelligent one, please exert yourself for the
destruction of Jalandhara. You have fortunately come to
us and you have always been the person who can achieve
everything for us.

Sanatkumara said: —

16. On hearing these words of the gods, the great
sage Narada, the merciful, consoled them and said,

Narada said: —

17. O gods, I know that you have been defeated by
the king of Asuras, that you are miserable and harassed and
have been deposed.

18. There is no doubt in this that I shall carry out
your task according to my ability. O gods, since you are in
misery I shall be favourable to you."

Sanatkumara said; —

19. After saying so and consoling the gods, the excel-

Rudrasamhita

lent sage went to the assembly chamber of Jalandhara to see
the favourite Asura.

20. On seeing the excellent sage, the king Jalandhara
stood up and offered him a splendid seat with great devotion.

21. After worshipping him duly the surprised king of
the Asuras laughed loudly and spoke to the excellent sage.

Jalandhara said: —

22. O brahmin, whence do you come from? What
did you see here ? O sage, what is the aim of your
present visit here ?

Sanatkumara said; —

23. On hearing these words of king Jalandhara the
delighted great sage Narada replied to him.

Narada said: —

24. O Jalandhara of great intellect, O lord of Danavas
and Daityas, O lord of all the worlds, you are blessed. You
alone are the enjoyer of all jewels.

25. O excellent king of Daityas, listen to the purpose
for which I have come here. I shall explain it to you.

26. O lord of Daityas, I had been to the summit of
Kailasa casually. It is ten thousand Yojanas wide. It has a
grove of Kalpa trees.

27. Hundreds of Kamadbenus are found there. It is
illuminated by Cintamani gems. It abounds in gold. It is
divine and wonderfully brilliant.

28. There I saw Siva seated along with Parvati. He
is fair-complexioned and exquisitely handsome. He has
three eyes and the moon for his crest.

29. On seeing this wonderfully great thing, a doubt
arose in my mind. Can there be anywhere in the three
worlds such a splendour as this ?"

30. O lord of Daityas then the idea of your prosperity
struck into my mind. Now I have come to you to see it
personally.

Sanatkumara said: —

31. On hearing these words of Narada the lord of

884

•ivapurana

Daityas Jalandhara showed all his glory to Narada.

32. On seeing it, the wise Narada, eager to realise the
interests of the gods, spoke to the king of Daityas, Jalandhara,
induced by the lord.

Narada said: —

33. O foremost among heroes, you have everything
conducive to prosperity. You are the lord of the three worlds.
What wonder that you possess this wealth.

34. Big jewels, heaps of gems, elephants and other
adjuncts to prosperity flourish in your mansion. Whatever
valuable thing there is in the worlds finds a place here.

35. O great hero, the most excellent of all elephants,
Airavata of Indra has been brought by you. The most excel-
lent of all horses, Uccaihsravas 222 of the sun has been
brought by you.

36. The celestial Kalpa tree has been brought by you;
the treasures of Kubera and the aerial chariot of Brahma
yoked to swan have been brought by you.

37. Thus all excellent things available in heaven,
earth and nether worlds, O great Daitya, flourish in your
mansion in their entirety.

38. O great hero, I am highly delighted on seeing
your great affluence consisting of diverse objects — elephant
horse etc.

39. But O Jalandhara, your mansion is deficient in
the most excellent of all ladies. You deserve to bring that.

40. O Jalandhara, one who possesses all excellent things
but does not possess the most excellent of women does not
shine. His life is rendered waste.

Sanatkumara said: —

41. On hearing these words of Narada the noble soul,
the king of Daityas, with his mind excited by passion, spoke
as follows —

222. Uccaihsravas, the horse of the sun, is distinct from that of the
same name which was appropriated by Indra after it was produced at the
churning of the ocean (Gp. V. i r of the next chapter).

Rudrasathhita

885

Jalandhara said: —

42. "O celestial sage, O Narada, obeisance be to you,
O holy lord. Where is this most excellent of all ladies ?
Please tell me now.

43. Wherever it may be in the whole of this universe,

if such a lady exists anywhere, I will bring her here. Truth,
it is certainly the truth."

Narada said: —

44. Kailasa is very beautiful and it possesses all sorts
of things conducive to prosperity. Siva lives there assuming
the form of a naked Yogin.

45. His wife Parvati is exquisitely beautiful in every
limb. She is charming and has all the characteristics of a
beautiful lady.

46. Such an exquisite beauteous form has never been
seen anywhere. It incites the enthusiasm of everybody. It is
highly wonderful. It fascinates even the Yogins. It is worthy
of being seen. It is conducive to great prosperity.

47. This occurs to my mind, O valiant Jalandhara that
there is none more prosperous in the three worlds than Siva
who possesses the most excellent of all ladies.

48. Even the four-faced 323 lord Brahma, immersed in her
ocean of beauty, lost his mental steadiness formerly. 224 Who
can be compared to such a beautiful lady?

49. Even Siva reputed to be free from infatuation has
been won over by her womanly sports. Siva who is
independent has been subjugated by her.

50. The prosperity that he enjoys inasmuch as he
indulges in dalliance with the most excellent of all ladies
has not come to you O lord of Daityas though you are
the master of excellent gems and jewels.

Sanatkutnara said: —

51. After saying this, the world-renowned celestial

223. Brahma is called four-faced (caturanana or catuimukha) .
Originally he had five heads but one was cut off by Siva for telling lies-
According to another version it was burnt off by the fire of Siva's central
eye for speaking disrespectfully.

224. Cp. £P. RS. Parvatlkhand.a 49. 8.

886

Sivapuram

sage, Narada, pursuing his attempt to help the gods departed
from there by the aerial path.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

[Jalandhara! s emissary to Siva)

Vyasa said: —

1. O omniscient Sanatkumara, what did the king of
Daityas do after the departure of Narada to heaven ? Please
narrate to me in detail.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. When Narada departed to heaven after taking
leave of the Daitya, the king of Daityas who had heard of
the exquisite beauty of Parvati became harassed with pangs
of love.

3. The deluded Daitya, Jalandhara, who had lost
clear thinking, being swayed by Time (the annihilator) called
his messenger Rahu.

4. The infatuated son of the ocean, Jalandhara,
addressed him politely with these words.

Jalandhara said: —

5. O Rahu of great intellect, most excellent of my
emissaries, go to the mountain Kailasa, O accomplisher of
all activities.

6. A sage and a Yogin named Siva lives there. He has
matted locks of hair. He is detached. He has controlled
his senses. His body is smeared with ashes.

7. O messenger, you shall go there and tell the
detached Yogin Siva with matted locks of hair, fearlessly.

8. 'O Yogin, ocean of mercy, of what avail is an
exquisitely beautiful wife to you who stay in the jungle
attended by ghosts, goblins, spirits and other beings ?

9. O Yogin, this state of affairs is no good in a world
with me as the Ruler. Hence you give up your wife, the
most excellent lady, to me, the enjoyer of all excellent
things.

Rudrasarhhita

887

10. Know that the whole universe Including the
mobile and immobile beings is under my suzerainty. All
the excellent things of the three worlds have come into my
possession.

11. I have forcibly seized the most excellent elephant
of Indra, the most excellent horse, Uccaihsravas and the
celestial tree parijata.

12. The wonderfully excellent and the most divine aer-
ial chariot fitted with the swan, belonging to Brahma is now
standing in my court-yard.

13. The divine and excellent treasure Mahapadma etc.
of Kubera is in my custody. The umbrella of Varuna stands
in my house shedding its golden brilliance.

14. The great garland of never-fading lotuses of fine
filaments belonging to my father is as good as mine. The
noose of Varuna lord of waters is also mine.

15. The excellent Javelin of Mrtyu has been seized by
me with force. The god of fire has surrendered to me two
clothes purified in fire.

16. Thus, O great Yogin, all excellent things shine in
my possession. Hence O ascetic (wearing matted hair) you
too surrender your wife the most excellent of all ladies to me. 225

Sanatkumara said : —

17. On hearing his words Rahu went to Kailasa and
was allowed to enter by Nandin. With surprise and mystery
manifest in his eyes, he went to the assembly chamber of
Siva.

18-20. On entering it, he saw Siva, the lord of the
gods, the great lord, quelling darkness with his refulgence,
shining with ashes smeared ( over his body) , adorned with
all Royal paraphernalia, of wonderful features, exquisite in
every limb and embellished with divine ornaments, The
emissary named Rahu bowed to Siva. His haughtiness subsi-
ded by the brilliance of his body. He went near Siva.

21. Rahu was desirous of speaking to him. He sat in
front of Siva. Urged by his gesture Rahu spoke to the
three-eyed god Siva.

225. For the similarity of ideas and verbal expression compare
verses 10-16 and 22-29 °f tn i s chapter with the verses of the Mkp.

888

SivapuraQa

Rahu said: —

22. I am the messenger of the lord of the three
worlds, worthy of being served for ever by Daityas and
serpents. I have come here to you on being sent by him.

23. The son of the ocean Jalandhara became the lord
of all Daityas and now he is the lord of the three worlds.
He is the emperor of all.

24. That powerful king of Daityas is like the god of
death to the gods. Listen to what he says addressing you the
Yogin.

25. O bull-bannered god, listen to the behest of the
lord of Daityas who has divine power and who is the master
of all excellent things.

26. How can the auspicious daughter of Himavat be
a wife unto you who habitually stay in the cremation ground
wearing garlands of bones and assuming the form of a naked
ascetic.

27. I am the possessor of all excellent things. She is
the most excellent of all ladies. She deserves me better than
you who live on alms.

28. The three worlds are under my control. I partake
of shares in sacrifices. The excellent things of the three
worlds are found in my palace.

29. We are the enjoyers of excellent things. You are
a mere naked ascetic and a Yogin. Surrender your wife unto
me. Subjects shall always keep their king happy.

Sana.tku.mar a said : —

30. When Rahu spoke thus, a terrific being resonant
like the thunder came out from the space between the eye-
brows of the trident-bearing deity.

31. He had a leonine mouth with a moving tongue-
his eyes shed fiery flames ; his hair stood at its end; his body
was dry and rough. He appeared to be the man-lion incar-
nation of Visnu.

32. He was huge in size. He had long arms. His
calves were as stout and huge as the palmyra tree. He was
very terrible. He immediately rushed at Rahu.

33. On seeing him rushing to devour, Ra.hu was terri-
fied. He ran out when he was caught by the terrible being.

Rudrasarhhita

889

Rahu said: —

34. "O great lord, O lord of the gods, save me who
have sought refuge in you. You are always worthy of being
worshipped by the gods and Asuras. You are the lord endow-
ed with all riches and accomplishments.

35. O great lord, your terrible servant has come here
to swallow me, a brahmin.

36. O lord of gods, favourably disposed to your devo-
tees, save me lest he should devour me. Obeisance be to
you again and again."

Sanatkumara said: —

37. O sage, on hearing the words of the brahmin, the
great lord, favourite of the distressed and helpless, spoke to
his Gana.

The great lord said : —

38. "Leave off this brahmin Rahu, the emissary who
has sought refuge. O excellent Gana, those who seek shelter
shall be protected, not punished."

Sanatkumara said: —

39. Commanded thus by the lord of Parvati, of sympa-
thetic temperament, the Gana set Rahu free, immediately
on hearing the word brahmin.

40. After leaving off Rahu, the gana came near fsiva
and pleaded to the great lord in piteous words.

The gana said: —

41. O great lord, O lord of the gods, O Siva the
merciful, O deity favourable to the devotees, my prey has
been taken away.

42. O lord, I am tormented by hunger. So I am utterly
emaciated. O lord of the gods, what shall be eaten by me?
Please command me, O lord.

Sanatkumara said: —

43. On hearing these words of the being, the great lord
of wonderful sports, eager to help his own persons, replied.

890

Sivapurana

The great lord said:—

44. "If you are badly in need of food, if hunger torments
you, eat up immediately the flesh of your own hands and
feet."

Sanatkumdra said'. —

45. On being commanded thus by Siva, the being ate
up the flesh from his limbs. He was then left only with his
head,

46. On seeing that being of terrible activities, left only
with his head, the delighted Sadasiva spoke smilingly.

Siva said: —

47. "O great Gana, you are blessed since you carried
out my behest to the very letter. O excellent one, I am
pleased with this action of yours.

48. You shall hereafter be known by the title Kirtimukha.
You shall be my door-keeper. You shall be one of my
great Ganas, very heroic and terrible to all wicked persons.

49. You are my favourite. In the course of my worship,
you too shall be worshipped always by my devotees. Those
who do not worship you cannot be pleasing to me."

Sanatkumara said: —

50. With this excellent blessing from Siva, he became
delighted. From that time onwards Kirtimukha 228 was
stationed at the entrance of the lord of the gods.

51. This Gana shall be specially worshipped in the
course of the adoration of Siva. Those who do not worship
him at the outset will find their worship in vain.

226. Kirtimukha, the great Gana of Siva, represented in sculpture
by a tr'u'nkle'ss head, is installed beside the door in front of Siva's image."

RuArasathhita

891

CHAPTER TWENTY

(The fight between the rank and file
of the Ganas and the Asuras)

Vyasa said : —

1. O omniscient Sanatkumara, a wonderful story has
been narrated by you, wherein the sanctifying sports of Siva
the great lord are included.

2. Now take pity on me and tell me with pleasure. O
great sage, when released by that being where did Rahu go ?

Suta said: —

3. On hearing the words of Vyasa of immeasurable
intelligence, the great sage, the delighted son of Brahma,
replied.

Sanatkumara said: —

4. Rahu had been let off in the land of the outcastes. 227
He too became an outcaste and came to be known in the
world as such.

5. Considering that as his second birth he became
humble. He became free from haughtiness. He slowly wended
his way to the city of Jalandhara.

6. After approaching Jalandhara the lord of Daityas,
he explained everything concerning Siva in detail, O Vyasa.

7. On hearing it, the powerful son of the ocean, the
excellent lord of Daityas, Jalandhara became furious from head
to foot.

8. Then the infuriated excellent Daitya commanded the
entire army of the Daityas to enter into the fray.

Jalandhara said: —

9-10. Let all the Asuras such as Kalanemi and others
set out with their entire divisions; Sumbha, Nisumbha and

227. The country of Varbaras or Barbaras is identified with the
Abir (Abhlra) Desa in the south-west in the Indus delta. Barbaras were
the wild people associated with Yavanas and Khasas. There is a reference
to the town Barbari or Barbarika in Sbanda Purana (1 11.37,1) and
Barbaricum or Barbaricon by Periplus and Ptolemy. For details see
Awasthi: Studies in Skanda Purana PP 100-101.

892

Sivapurana

other heroes; the descendants of Kotivira, the scions of the
family of Kambu, Daurhrdas, Kalakas, Kalakeyas, Mauryas
and Dhaumras — let all these start for the fight.

11. After ordering thus, the lord of the Asuras the
valorous son of the ocean set out quickly accompanied by
crores of Daityas.

12. Then Sukra and Rahu with his head severed went
ahead of him. In his quick jerky movement, his crown
became dislodged and fell on the ground.

13. The sky was entirely enveloped by clouds as in
the rainy season. Many ill omens occurred portending great
slumber.

14. On seeing his enterprise, the gods including Indra
went to Kailasa, the abode of Siva without being observed.

15. After going there and seeing Siva, the gods including
Indra, bowed to him with stooping shoulders. They joined
their palms in reverence and eulogised.

The gods said: —

16. O great lord, lord of the gods, O Siva the merci-
ful, obeisance be to you. Save us who have sought refuge in
you.

17. O lord, we are very much distressed by this harass-
ment, All including Indra are deposed and compelled to
stay on the earth.

18. O lord, how is it possible that you do not know
this adversity of the gods ? Hence in order to protect us please
kill him.

19. O lord, Visnu who was assigned by you the task of
protection is now unable to protect us.

20. He is also subservient to him and stays in his man-
sion along with Laksmi. AH of us gods stay there obeying
his behests.

21. O Siva, we have approached you unobserved by
him. That powerful son of the ocean is coming hither to fight
with you.

22.. O omniscient, lord, you shall kill Jalandhara in the-
battle without- delay. Save us who have sought refuge in you.

kudrasarhhita

Sanatkumara said: —

23. After saying this, the gods including Indra bowed
to him and stood humbly glancing at the feet of lord Siva.

24. On hearing the words of the gods the bull-
bannered deity laughed. He called Visnu immediately and
spoke these words.

The lord Siva said: —

25. O great Visnu, the distressed gods harassed by
Jalandhara have sought refuge in me.

26. O Visnu, how is it that Jalandhara was not killed
in battle by you ? Leaving off your own Vaikuntha you have
gone to his mansion?

27. As I wanted to be free and sportful, I had appointed
you for the protection of the good and the curbing of the
wicked.

Sanatkumara said: —

28. On hearing the words of lord Siva, Visnu replied
humbly bowing down with palms joined in reverence.

Visnu said: —

29. He was not killed in war by me because he was
born of a part of yours. Moreover he is Laksmi's brother.
Please kill him.

30. O lord of the gods, he is very powerful, heroic and
indefatigable by all the heaven-dwellers and others too. I am
telling you the truth.

31. In fact a war was fought with him by me in the
company of the gods. But my strategy was ineffective in regard
to this great Danava.

32. I told him "I am delighted with your valour.
Tell me the boon you wish to have". On hearing these words
of mine he chose an excellent boon.

33. ct O great Visnu please stay in my mansion subser-
vient to me along with my sister, 228 the gods and myself."
So I went to his mansion. ,

228. Laksml, produced at the churning of the ocean, became the
daughter of the ocean. ' Thus she could be the sister of Jalandhara who
was the son of the ocean.

Sanatkumara said: —

34. On hearing the words of Visnu, lord Siva who
is favourably disposed to his devotees laughed and said deli-
ghtedly and sympathetically.

The great lord Siva said: —

35. O Visnu, foremost among the gods, please listen
to my words attentively. I will kill the great Daitya Jalan-
dhara. There is no doubt about this.

36. Go back to your abode fearlessly. Let the gods
too go back without fear and hesitation, considering the
ruler of the Asuras already killed.

Sanatkumara said: —

37. On hearing the words of lord Siva, the lord of
Laksmi immediately went to his abode without doubts along
with the gods.

38. In the meantime, O Vyasa, that valorous king of
the Daityas went along with the well-equipped Asuras to
the outskirts of the mountain.

39. Accompanied by a vast army he laid siege to
Kailasa. He stood there like the god of death roaring like
a lion.

40. On hearing the tumultuous roar of the Daityas, lord
Siva of great sports, the destroyer of the wicked, became very
furious.

41. The great lord of various sports, the enthusiastic
Siva commanded his powerful Ganas, Nandin and others,
severally.

42. Nandin, Vighnesvara, Kumara and all other Ganas,
at the bidding of Siva hurriedly got ready for the battle.

43. The infuriated and invincible Ganas descended from
Kailasa heroically shouting war cries and leaping to fight.

44. Then at the ridges, valleys and sides of Kailasa,
a terrible battle was fought between the leaders of the Pra-
mathas and the Daityas. Weapons clashed with weapons.

45. The whole earth shook resonant with the sounds
of great war drums, Mrdangas and conches that inspired the
heroes as well as the sounds of elephants, horses and chariots.

46. The whole atmosphere was filled with javeline, iron

kudrasarhhita

clubs, arrows, great pestles, iron rods, pikes etc. as if strewn
with pearls.

47. With the dead elephants, horses and foot soldiers,
the earth shone in the same way as before when great moun-
tains were scattered, smitten by the thunderbolt of Indra.

48. With the groups of Dai tyas killed by the Pramathas,
and with the Ganas killed by the Daityas, the whole
ground was filled with suets, flesh and streams of blood. It
became so marshy as it became impassable.

49. With the power of Saftjivani, Bhargava resuscitated
the forces of the Daityas killed by the Pramathas in the battle
again and again.

50. On seeing them, all the Ganas were agitated and
terrified. They intimated to the lord of the gods what
Sukra did.

,51. On hearing it, lord Siva became terribly furious.
He became terrific blazing the quarters as it were.

52. A terrible Krtya came out of Rudra's mouth. Her
calves were as stout as Palmyra trees. Her mouth was huge
and deep like mountain caverns. With her breasts she crush-
ed huge trees.

53. O excellent sage, she rushed immediately to the
battle ground. The terrible Krtya roamed the battle-
ground devouring the great Asuras.

54. Fearlessly she rushed amid the battle-field where
Bhargava was stationed surrounded by the leading Daityas.

55. O sage, she enveloped the whole sky with her
terrible brilliance. She split the ground she trod; she stuffed
Bhargava into her vaginal passage and vanished in the sky.

56. On seeing Bhargava seized, the invincible armies
of the Daityas became dejected and faded in their faces. They
fled from the battle ground.

57. The army of the Daityas became scattered and
split in their terrific fear of the Ganas like bundles of grass
split and scattered when blown by the wind.

58. On seeing the army of the Daityas thus dispersed
and frightened of the Ganas, the leaders Sumbha and Nisu-
mbha and Kalanemi became infuriated.

59. AH the three powerful Daityas obstructed the

army of the Ganas showering arrows like the destructive
clouds in the rainy season.

60. The volleys of arrows discharged by the Daityas
enveloped all the quarters and the atmosphere like huge
swarm's of locusts. They shook the hosts of Ganas.

61. Split by hundreds of arrows, the Ganas shed
streams of blood. They resembled the red Kimsuka flowers
of the spring season. They did not know what to do.

62. On seeing their army thus shattered, the infuria-
ted leaders Nandin, GaneSa and Karttikeya hurriedly checked
the rushing Daityas.

CHAPTER TWENTYONE

{Description of the Special War)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. On seeing the leaders of the Ganas, Nandin,
Ganesa and Karttikeya, the Danavas rushed at them for a
duel combat.

2. Kalanemi clashed with Nandin; Sumbha fought
Ganesa and Nisumbha hesitatingly rushed at Karttikeya.

3. With five arrows Nisumbha hit the peacock of
Karttikeya in the chest and it fell unconscious.

4. Then the infuriated Karttikeya discharged five
arrows at his chariot and pierced the horses and the
charioteer.

5. The invincible hero hit NiSumbha with another
sharp arrow quickly and roared.

6. The Asura Nisumbha of great prowess and heroism
hit Karttikeya in the battle with his arrow as he roared.

7. By the time the furious Karttikeya seized his spear,
NiSumbha struck him with it.

8. Thus, O Vyasa, a great fight between Karttikeya
and Nisumbha ensued as they shouted heroically.

9. Then Nandin hit Kalanemi with seven arrows and
pierced his horses, banner, chariot and charioteer.

iiudrasarfihita,

10. With very sharp shafts discharged from his bow,
the infuriated Kalanemi cut the bow of Nandin.

11. Defying the great demon Kalanemi the heroic
Nandisvara hit him in the chest with his spear.

12. With his horses and charioteer killed and himself
wounded in the chest, he broke the top of a mountain and
hit Nandin.

13. Then Sumbha and Ganesa seated respectively in a
chariot and on a mouse fought each other with volleys of
arrows.

14. Ganesa hit Sumbha in his chest with an arrow
and felled his charioteer with three arrows on the ground.

15. Then the infuriated Sumbha covered Ganesa with
a shower of arrows. Hitting the mouse with three arrows
he roared like thunder.

16. The mouse pierced by the arrows, shook with
acute pain. Ganesa was thrown off (his vehicle) and he
became a foot soldier ( as it were) .

17. Then Ganesa hit Sumbha in his chest with his
axe and felled him to the ground. Thereafter he mounted
his mouse again.

18. Lord Gane:3a of elephantine face got ready for
the fight. He hit him mockingly and angrily as if hitting a
great elephant with a goad.

19. Kalanemi and Sumbha simultaneously attacked
Ganesa furiously with arrows as ruthless as serpents.

20. On seeing him afflicted, the powerful VIrabhadra
accompanied by a crore goblins rushed in.

21. The Kusmandas, Bhairavas, Vetalas, Yoginls,
Pisacas, Dakinis and Ganas came there with him.

22. The Earth, resonant with various kinds of noise,
shouts of joy, leonine roars and the sounds of Damarukas,
quaked.

23. Then the Bhutas ran here and there devouring the
Danavas. They jumped up and danced in the battle field
and threw the Asura on the ground.

24. In the meantime, O Vyasa, Nandin and Guha
regained their consciousness and got up. They roared in the
battlefield again.

25. Nandin and Karttikeya came hurriedly and struck

Aivapurand

the Daityas in the battle ground with incessant volleys of
arrows.

26. Then the army of the Daityas became agitated
and dejected with many Daityas wounded, split, killed, felled
to the ground and devoured.

27. Thus Nandin, Karttikeya the formidable and
valorous, Vlrabhadra and the other Ganas roared much in the
battle.

28. Then those two generals of the son of the ocean,
Nisumbha and Sumbha, the great Daitya Kalanemi and the
other Asuras were defeated.

29. On seeing the army destroyed, the powerful son
of the ocean rushed at the Ganas in his chariot of waving
and wafting colours.

30. Thereat even the defeated Daityas became
jubilant. O Vyasa, they roared much and got ready for the
fray.

31. The victorious Ganas of Siva too roared, led by
Nandin, Karttikeya, Ganes"a and Virabhadara, O sage.

32. The trumpets of the elephants, the neighing of
the horses, the rumbling of the chariots, the sounds of the
conches and war-drums and the leonine roars of the armies
rose up.

33. The space between heaven and the earth became
enveloped by the many arrows discharged byjalandhara as
if by floating masses of mist.

34. Hitting Nandin and Ganes"a with five arrows
each and Vlrabhadra with twenty he roared like thunder.

35. Karttikeya the heroic son of Siva then swiftly hit
the Daitya Jalandhara with his spear and roared.

36. With the body pierced through by the spear, the
Daitya fell on the ground with eyes rolling. But the power-
ful Asura swiftly stood up.

< 37. Then Jalandhara the infuriated leader of the
Daityas hit Karttikeya in his chest with his mace.

38. O Vyasa, plainly exhibiting the successful efficiency
of the Mace secured as a favour from Brahma Karttikeya
fell on the ground suddenly.

39. Similarly, struck by the mace Nandin too fell on

kudtasamhita

the ground. He was distressed a little although he was a
great hero and a destroyer of enemies.

40. Then the infuriated hero Ganesa came there
after remembering the lotus like feet of Siva and split the
mace of the Daitya with his axe.

41. Virabhadra then hit the Danava in his chest with
three arrows. He cut off the banner, umbrella, bow and the
horses of the Daitya with seven arrows.

42. Then the infuriated leader of the Daityas lifted
up his terrible Sakti and felled Ganesa. He mounted another
chariot then.

43. The powerful leader of the Daityas did not mind
Virabhadra at all. Angrily he rushed at him.

44. Jalandhara, the heroic king of Daityas, hit
Virabhadra with a fierce arrow and roared.

45. The infuriated Virabhadra split that arrow with a
sharp-edged arrow. With another great arrow he hit him too.

46. Then both of them, the most excellent of heroes
refulgent like the sun, fought each other with different kinds
of weapons and missiles.

47. Virabhadra then felled his horses with his arrows.
He forcefully cut off him bow and flags too.

48. Then the king of the Daityas leapt up to him with
a great iron club. That powerful warrior reached very near
Virabhadra very quickly.

49. The heroic and powerful son of the ocean hit
Virabhadra on his head with his great iron club. He then roared.

50. Virabhadra, the leader of the Ganas, fell on the
ground with his head shattered by the iron club and shed
much blood.

51. On seeing Virabhadra fallen, the terrified Ganas
abandoned the battle ground shrieking and fled to lord
Siva.

52. On hearing the tumultuous uproar of the Ganas,
the moon-crested lord asked the excellent Ganas, the heroes
standing near him.

Siva said: —

53. How is this tumultuoun uproar among my Ganas ?

900

'ivapurana

O heroes, let this be enquired into. Peace shall be established
by me, of course.

54. Even as the lord of the gods was conducting
the enquiry, the leaders of the Ganas approached the lord.

55. On seeing them dejected, the lord enquired after
their health. The Ganas then intimated to him everything
in detail.

56. On hearing it, lord Siva, the expert in divine
sports assured them of freedom from fear increasing their
enthusiasm.

CHAPTER TWENTYTWO

{Description of Jalandhara's Battle)

Sanatkumara said : —

1. Then the great lord Siva assuming a terrible form
went laughingly to the battle-field and sat on his bull,
accompanied by his heroic Ganas.

2. On seeing Siva coming, the Ganas who were for-
merly defeated returned to fight roaring like lions.

3. Other Ganas too shouted heroically and jubilantly,
Well-equipped with their weapons they killed the Daityas
with showers of arrows.

4. On seeing Siva the terrible, all the Daityas fled
for fear from the battle field as the sins on seeing a devotee
of Siva.

5. On seeing the Daityas returning from the battle
field, Jalandhara rushed at Siva discharging thousands of
arrows.

6. Thousands of leading Daityas, NKumbha, Sumbha
and others rushed at Siva, biting their lips.

7. Similarly Kalanemi the hero, Khadgaroma, Balahaka,
Ghasmara, Pracanda and others rushed at Siva.

8. O sage, the heroes Sumbha and others, covered
the Ganas of Rudra with arrows and cut their limbs.

9. On seeing his army of Ganas enveloped in darkness

RudrasaThhita

901

by the volleys of arrows, Siva split the net of their arrows
and encompassed the sky with his own.

10. He afflicted the Daityas with the gusts of wind
raised by the arrows. He felled them to the ground with
fierce volleys of arrows.

11. He severed the head of Khadgaroma from his
body with his axe. He shattered the head of Balahaka with
his club into two pieces.

12. He tied the Daitya Ghasmara with his noose and
dashed him on the ground. With his trident, he chopped off
the great hero Pracanda.

13. Some of the Asura,s were killed by the bull. Some
were struck by the arrows. Like elephants harassed by lions,
the Asuras were unable to stay there.

14. Then the great Asura Jalandhara became in-
furiated and rebuked the Daityas in the battle. The
courageous Daitya mocked at Sumbha and others and spoke
thus.

Jalandhara said'; —

15. Of what avail is your boasting about the pedigree
of your mother if you flee back on being attacked ? To die
cowardly while you profess to be heroes is not commendable,
nor does it yield heaven.

16. O trivial fellows, if you have faith in war or the
essential strength in the heart or if you have no lurking
pleasures for sexual indulgence then you come forward and
stand before me,

17. Death in battle is preferrable. It yields all
cherished desires. It is especially conducive to fame. It has
been proclaimed as the bestower of salvation too.

18. The wandering recluse of supreme knowledge and
wisdom as well as he who dies fighting face to face, attain
the greatest region after breaking through the solar sphere.

19. No sensible man should ever be afraid of death.
Death is inevitable notwithstanding all the remedies emp-
loyed to ward it off.

20. O heroes, death is congenital to any being born.
Either today or at the end of a hundred years all living
beings are sure to die.

902

Sivapurana

21. Hence, cast off all fear for death. Gome and
fight in war joyously. In every respect there is certainly a
great bliss here and hereafter.

Sanatkumara said : —

22. Saying this, he tried to encourage his heroes in
several ways. But the frightened demons did not regain
courage. They fled from the battle in a trice.

23. On seeing his army on the rout, the heroic son of
the ocean Jalandhara became very furious.

24. Then the infuriated Jalandhara challenged for a
battle in a stentorian voice like the sound of fierce thunder-
bolt.

Jalandhara said : —

25. O ascetic, fight with me now. What is the use of
slaying these ? Show me what little strength you have.

Sanatkumara said: —

26. After saying this, Jalandhara the great Daitya
hit the bull-bannered Siva of indefatigable endeavour,
with an incessant volley of arrows.

27. Laughingly, lord Siva split all the arrows of
Jalandhara by discharging his own sharp arrows even before
his arrows reached him.

28. Then with seven arrows he split the horses, banner,
umbrella and the bow of Daitya Jalandhara. O sage, it is
not surprising in the case of Siva.

29. The infuriated Asura the son of the ocean, devoid
of a chariot and with bow split up rushed at Siva lifting his
mace vigorously.

30. O Vyasa, lord Siva of great sports immediately
split asunder the mace hurled by him, by means of his
arrows.

31. Yet the highly infuriated great Asura rushed at
Siva with the mailed fist lifted up, with a desire to kill him.

32. By a volley of arrows Jalandhara was hurled
back a Kros"a by Siva of indefatigable enterprise.

33. Then, considering Siva more powerful, Jalandhara

Rudrasathhitd

903

the Daitya, created the illusion of Gandharvas that myste-
riously fascinated even Siva.

34. By the power of his Maya, hosts of Gandharvas
and celestial damsels came into view for fascinating Siva.

35. The Gandharvas and celestial damsels sang and
danced. Others played on flutes, mrdangas and cymbals.

36. On seeing that wonderful feat, Siva was fascinated
by the Ganas. He was not conscious of even the garments let
down from the hands.

37. On seeing Siva concentrated in the dance
Jalandhara urged by lust immediately went to the place
where Gauri stood.

38-39. He entrusted the powerful Sumbha and
Nisumbha with the conduct of war. With his demonaic
Maya he assumed the form of Siva — with ten brawny arms,
five faces, three eyes, and matted hair. He was seated on
the great bull. In every respect, O Vyasa, Jalandhara
appeared like Siva.

40. On seeing Siva coming, the beloved of Siva
came out. from the midst of her female friends within the
range of his vision.

4 1 . When the lord of Asuras saw the bauntiful Parvati,
he let drops of semen fall and his limbs became benumbed.

42. On realising that he was the demon, the terri-
fied Gauri vanished immediately to the northern shore of the
Manasa lake.

43. Unable to see her who disappeared in a moment
like lightning, the Daitya immediately went to the place
where lord Siva stood in order to fight him.

44. Parvati remembered lord Visnu mentally. Immedia-
tely she saw the lord seated near her.

45. On seeing Visnu bowing to her with palms joined
in reverence, Parvati the beloved of Siva, the mother of the
universe, spoke delightedly.

Parvati said : —

46. O Visnu, is it not known to you that the wicked
Daitya Jalandhara perpetrated a wonderfully base deed ?"

47. On hearing the words of the mother of the

904

Sivapurdna

universe, the Garuda-bannered lord bowed to Parvatl bending
his neck and joining his palms in reverence and spoke.

Visnu said: —

48. O mother, by your favour that incident is known
to me. What you shall be pleased to commend I shall
perform with your permission.

Sanatkumara said: —

49. On hearing the words of Visnu, Parvatl said
again. The mother of the universe desired to teach Visnu
the policy based on Dharma.

Pdrvati said :■ —

50. He himself has shown the path. Know that to be
the way in the same manner. At my bidding, make the
chastity of his wife violated.

51. O Visnu, that great Daitya cannot be killed
otherwise. In the earth there is no other virtue equal to
chastity.

Sanatkumara said : —

52. On hearing this command and accepting it with
lowered head, Visnu immediately went to the city of Jalan-
dhara for practising deception.

CHAPTER TWENTYTHREE

(Outraging the modesty of Vrnda)

Vyasa said : —

1. O omniscient Sanatkumara, please narrate, O
eloquent one, what did Visnu do there ? How did she err
from her virtue ?

Sanatkumara said : —

2. After going to the city of Jalandhara, Visnu thought
of violating the chastity of Vrnda.

Rudrasattihita

905

3. The foremost among those who wield illusion, he
assumed a wonderful body and stationed himself in a park
of the city. He made Vrnda, see a dream.

4. The gentle lady Vrnda, the wife of Jalandhara,
though of pure rites, had a very bad dream at night on
account of Visnu's power of illusion.

5. In the dream as a result of Visnu's power of
illusion she saw the naked form of her husband anointed
with oil and seated on a buffalo.

6. He was proceeding in the southern direction. His
head had been completely shaved. He was wearing black
flowers to decorate himself. He was being served by a number
of Asuras. He was completely encompassed by darkness.

7. Later, towards the end of the night she had
various bad dreams, such as the whole city was submerged
in the sea, all of a sudden, along with herself.

8. Then the lady woke up still thinking of the dream
she had had. She saw the rising sun with a hole in the middle
and fading repeatedly.

9. On realising that it was a bad portent, the terrified
lady began to cry. She did not feel happy at all in the
spacious terraces and towers of the palace,

10. With two of her friends she then went to the
park in the city. Even there she did not find herself at
ease.

1 1 . Then she, the dej ected gloomy wife of Jalandhara,
wandered from forest to forest. She was not conscious of
even herself.

12. The wandering lady saw two demons of terrible
leonine faces with shining curved fanglike teeth.

13. Terrified much on seeing them, the lady fled
from there and saw an ascetic of calm countenance observing
silence and accompanied by his disciple.

14. Putting her tender creeperlike hands round his
neck due to fright she gasped out — c '0 sage, save me. I
have sought refuge in you."

15. Seeing the agitated lady followed by the demons
the sage drove them back with a loud bellowing sound of
"Hum".

16. O sage, seeing them routed and terrified by the

906

§ivapurar}a

mere Humkara, the wife of the king of Daityas was struck
with a great wonder in her heart.

17. Freed from the fear she bowed down to the great
sage with palms joined in reverence and prostrated herself in
front of him. Vrnda then spoke.

Vrnda said'. —

18. "O leader of sages, O ocean of mercy, O remover
of harassment from others, I have been saved by you from
this terrible danger from the wicked demons.

19. You are competent in every respect. You are
omniscient. Yet I wish to submit something. Be pleased to
hear it.

20. O lord, Jalandhara my husband has gone to fight
Siva. O holy one of good rites, how does he fare in the
war ? Please tell me."

Sanatkumara said: —

2 1 . On hearing her words, the sage feigned a deceptive
silence. Fully aware of the means of achieving his selfish
ends he looked up sympathetically.

22. In the meantime two lordly monkeys came there
and stood bowing down in front of him. At a significant
gesture from his eyebrows, the monkeys rose into the sky
again.

23. O great sage, within a trice, they came back
taking with them his head, body and limbs and stood in
front of the sage.

24. On seeing the head, body and limbs of her husband,
Vrnda fell unconscious, extremely pained at the misery of
her lord.

Vrnda said: —

25. "O lord, formerly you used to humour me with
pleasant chats. How is it that you do not speak to me now,
to your pious beloved?

26. How is it that you, by whom all the gods
including the Gandharvas and Visnu had been defeated, you
who had conquered the three worlds, have now been killed
by a poor sage ?

Rudrasarfthitd

907

27. O excellent Daitya, you did not know the reality
of Siva nor did you pay heed to my words 'Siva is
Supreme Brahman.'

28. Having served you I found that it was not due
to haughtiness but due to your association with bad men that
you did all this."

29. Saying these and other words of lamentation, his
beloved wife strictly adhering to virtue, cried in diverse ways
with a pained heart.

30. Then steadying herself a little, and heaving deep
sighs of grief she bowed to the excellent sage with palms
joined in reverence.

31. "O excellent sage, storehouse of mercy, eager to
help others, O gentle sir, take pity on me and resuscitate
my lord.

32. O great sage, I know that you are competent
to enliven him again. Hence please resuscitate my beloved
husband."

Sanatkumara said: —

33. After saying this, the chaste wife of the Daitya fell
at his feet heaving sighs of grief.

The sage said: —

34. This Daitya cannot be enlivened because he has
been killed by Siva in the battle. Those killed in battle by
Siva never return to life.

35. Still, knowing the eternal Dharma that those who
seek refuge should be protected, I shall resuscitate him urged
by pity.

Sanatkumara said : — -

36. After saying this and restoring him to life, O sage,
that sage who was Visnu the foremost among those who wield
illusion vanished from the scene.

37. Jalandhara thus revived to life by him stood up.
Delighted in mind he embraced Vrnda and kissed her face.

38. On seeing her husband, Vrnda too was delighted.
She forgot her sorrow. She considered everything a dream.

39. Delighted in the heart and with all the dormant

908

Sivapurana

passions kindled up, she sported with him for many days in
the middle of that forest.

40. Once at the end of the sexual intercourse she re-
alised that it was Visnu. Vrnda rebuked him angrily and
spoke thus.

Vrnda said: —

41. Fie on this misdeed of Visnu in outraging the
modesty of another man's wife. I have now realised you as
the wielder of illusion, appearing in the guise of an ascetic.

Sanatkumara said: —

42. O Vyasa, saying thus in great anger she showed
her brilliant powers as a staunch chaste lady by cursing
Visnu.

43. "O base foe of the Daityas, defiler of other people's
virtue, O wicked one, take this curse from me, greater in
force than all persons.

44. The two persons whom you made to appear in
front of me shall become Raksasas 229 and abduct your wife.

45. You will be distressed on account of separation
from your wife roaming about with Sesa 'lord of snakes' 230
who posed as your disciple here. You will seek the help of
monkeys 231 in the forest.

46. After saying this, Vrnda entered fire though prev-
ented by Visnu who was fascinated by her charms.

47. O sage, then Brahma and other gods, gathered in
the sky accompanied by their wives in order to see the sal-
vation of Vrnda.

48. Then the great brilliance of the wife of Jalandhara
immediately went to Sivaloka even as the gods stood watch-
ing.

49. The refulgence of Vrnda became merged in Parvati.
There was a great shout of "Victory" in the rows of the
gods standing in the sky.

zzq. The two Raksasas referred to here were Marica and Ravana
who abducted Sitg, wife of Rama, the seventh incarnation of Visnu.

230. The monkeys referred to here were Sugriva, Hanuman, Nala
Nila and .others. .

231.. The expression 'lord of snakes' signifies Laksamana, said to be
the incarnation of Sesa,

kudrasamhka

50. O sage, thus the great queen Vrnda the excellent
daughter of Kalanemi attained great salvation, thanks to the
power of her chastity.

51. Visnu thought of Vrnda remorsefully. The smoke
and dust from her funeral pyre covered his face. He stood
there itself without any peace of mind though urged and
consoled by hosts of gods and Siddhas.

CHAPTER TWENTYFOUR

{Jalandhara is slain)

1. O excellent son of Brahma, O intelligent one, you
have narrated a wonderful story. What happened there-
after in the battle? How was the Asura killed ? Please
narrate.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. Unable to see Parvati, the king of Daityas returned
to the battle ground. The groups of deceptive Gandharvas
vanished. It was only then that the bull-bannered deity
regained awareness of the surroundings.

3. On seeing the illusion vanished, Siva woke up.
Following the way of the world, the annihilator became
very furious.

4. Then Siva was a bit surprised in the mind. He
approached Jalandhara angrily in order to fight with him.
On seeing Siva approaching again, the Asura showered him
with arrows.

5. Lord Siva immediately split the cluster of arrows
discharged by the powerful Jalandhara by means of
his own excellent arrows. This was not surprising for the
annihilator of the three worlds.

6. Seeing Siva exhibiting wonderful feats of valour,
Jalandhara created Parvati by means of his illusion in order
to delude Siva.

7. Siva saw Parvati tied to the chariot and crying.

910

SivapurSna

She was being harrassed by Nisumbha, Sumbha and other
Daityas.

8. On seeing that in her plight, Siva became dispirited
and dejected in the mind like an ordinary man pursuing the
way of the world.

9. He, an expert in various kinds of sports, remained
silent with face drooping down, utterly dejected, exhausted
and forgetful of his own prowess.

10. Then Jalandhara hurriedly hit Siva in his chest,
belly and the head with three arrows that went deep down
as far as their feathered tail.

11. Then within a trice, lord Siva, the principle of
perfect wisdom, expert in great sports, assumed a terrific
form, dreadfully blazing.

12. On seeing his excessively terrible form, the
Daityas fled to the ten different quarters. They were un-
able to stay facing him.

13. O great sage, even Sumbha and Nisumbha who
were renowned for their prowess could not stand in the
battle ground.

14. The illusion created by Jalandhara had vanished
in an instant. In that all out battle there was great hue
and cry.

15. On seeing Sumbha and Nisumbha fleeing, the
infuriated Siva rebuked them and cursed as follows.

Siva said: —

16. "You are wicked and excessively roguish. You
have offended me by harassing Parvati. Now both of you
have deserted the battle ground.

17. A person fleeing the battle ground shall not be
killed. So I do not kill you. Since you have escaped from
a fight with me you would be killed by Parvati." 232

18. Even as Siva was saying, Jalandhara, son of the
ocean, became very furious with Siva like the blazing fire.

19. One after the other, he showered many sharp

232. As cursed by Siva, the Asuras Sumbha and Nisumbha were
killed by Parvati later on. For the detailed description of their destruc-
tion, see Markandeya P.

kudrasarhhita

5i i

arrows on Siva in the battle. The whole of the Earth
became enveloped in darkness by his arrows.

20. Siva split the arrows swiftly, the powerful Daitya
hit the bull with an iron club.

21. Due to that blow the bull turned away from the
battle field. Even when dragged by Siva it did not stand

22. Then the great Siva put forth an unbearable
splendour visible to all in the battle field. O great sage,
this is true.

23. Then the infuriated Siva assuming a terrible form,
became as dreadful as the fire of dissolution, all of a sudden.

24. On seeing the Daitya standing in front like the
lofty peak of Meru and hearing from others that he could
not be killed, he stood ready for it.

25. As desired by Brahma, the lord protector of the
worlds decided to kill Jalandhara, blessing him in the heart
of his heart.

26. Becoming excessively angry, the trident bearing
deity made a mysteriously terrible wheel in the great waters
by means of his big toe indulging in a divine sport.

27. Creating a sharp wheel in the waters of the ocean
and remembering that the three worlds had been harassed by
Jalandhara, the lord Siva who had slain Daksa, Andhaka
Antaka and destroyed the three cities and the sacrifice of
Daksa 233 and annihilated the three worlds said laughingly.

Siva said: —

28. O Jalandhara, if you are powerful enough to lift
the wheel created by me with the leg in the great waters,
you will be competent to stand and fight with me, not other-
wise.

Sanatkumara said: —

29. On hearing his words the Daitya's eyes gleamed
fiercely with anger. He looked at Siva as if burning him with
his eyes and said: —

there.

a 33-
Chs ay-37

For the destruction of Daksa's sacrifice sec SP. RS. Section a.
For the destruction of Andhaka, ihid. Section 5. Chs 40-49.

912

divapurdnd

Jalandkara said: — -

30-31. After uplifting the wheel, I shall be killing
you with your Ganas. Like Garuda killing the serpents I
shall kill all the people in the world along with the gods. I
can destroy the mobile and immobile along with Indra. O
lord Siva, who is there in the three worlds that can escape
being pierced by my arrows ?

32. Even in my childhood, lord Brahma had been
defeated by my vigour. That powerful Brahma is in my
abode now along with the sages and leading gods.

33. Within a trice, the entire universe of the mobile
and immobile has been burnt by me. O Siva, what can be
done by you or by your penance? Even lord Brahma has
been defeated.

34. Indra, Agni, Yama, Kubera, Vayu, and Varuna
and others were unable to endure my valour like the ser-
pents unable to bear even the odour' of the lord of birds.

35. O Siva, I have never been obstructed either in the
heaven or on the earth. I have gone over all the mountains
and crushed all the leading Ganas.

36. To remove the itching sensation in my arms I have
hit the lofty mountain Mandara, the glorious mountain Nila
and the lustrous mountain Meru.

37. Just for the sport the river Ganga was checked by
me on the Himalaya mountain. Even my servants were
victorious over the gods, my enemies.

38. I seized the submarine fire 23 * and closed its mouth
when the entire ocean became one single unit instantaneously.

39. Airavata and other elephants have been hurled
into the ocean. Lord Indra along with his chariot has been
thrown by me a hundred Yojanas away.

40. Even Guruda has been bound by me along with
Visnu by means of the serpent noose. UrvasI 2115 and other
women have been imprisoned by me.

234. The submarine fire (Badavaj is a flame with the head of a
horse thai consumes the water of the rivers falling into the ocean. When
it is mcapadtated, (he water overflows the shore and drowns the universe.
inthe n ocean nltS ° CrCation are then drawn together and remain invisible

.ther^L 7** Cd , eS i ial ^ msds > Urv ^">, Rambha, Menaka, Tilottama and
others are the symbols of heavenly beauty.

ttudrasarhhita

913*

41. O Siva., you do not know me the conqueror of the
three worlds, Jalandhara, the great Daitya and the powerful
son of the ocean.

Sanatkumara said: —

42. After saying this to lord Siva, the son of the ocean
did not move nor did he remember the Danavas killed in
the battle.

43. Lord Siva was slighted and insulted by means of
harsh words by the haughty impudent Daitya after slapping
each arm by the other forcibly.

44. On hearing the inauspicious words of the Daitya,
lord Siva laughed mockingly and became furious.

45. Siva held in his hand the wheel SudarSana which
he had made with his toe and got ready to kill him.

46. Lord Siva hurled the discus Sudarsana which re-
sembled a crore suns and the fire of dissolution.

47. Blazing the heaven and the earth, the discus hit
Jalandhara and severed his head with wide gaping eyes.

48. The body of the son of the ocean fell on the
ground from the chariot making the earth resonant. The
head too fell. There was a great hue and cry.

49. His body fell in two halves like the mountain of
collyrium split by the thunderbolt and hurled in the ocean.

50. The whole universe was filled with his terrible
blood O great sage, the entire earth became deformed.

51. His entire blood and flesh, at the bidding of Siva
was taken to the hell Maharaurava 236 and became a big pit
of blood there.

52. His splendour that came out of his body merged
into Siva just like the splendour that came out of the body
of Vrnda and merged into Parvati.

53. On seeing Jalandhara killed, the gods, the
Gandharvas and the serpents became highly delighted and
said "Well done, O lord' 1 .

54. The gods, Siddhas and great sages were delighted.
Making showers of flowers they sang his glory loudly.

236. Maharaurava is one of the many hells to which the souls of the
wicked are sent. But as Jalandhara had emanated from Rudra, his
soul was merged into Rudra's soul but his flesh and blood went to
Maharaurava hell and were turned into a pool of blocd.

514

Sivapuraya

55. The celestial damsels excited by love and joy
danced. In the company of Kinnaras they sang in harmo-
nious sweet voice.

56. O sage, the quarters became clear when Vrnda's
husband was killed. The three winds, gentle to the touch
and sanctifying, blew.

57. The moon became cool. The sun blazed brilli-
antly. The fires blazed quietly. The sky became clear.

58. O sage, thus the entire universe of the three
worlds regained their earlier health and normalcy much when
the son of the ocean was killed by Siva of infinite forms.

CHAPTER TWENTYFIVE

{Prayer by the gods)

Sanatkumdra said : —

1. Then Brahma, other gods and the sages eulogised
lord Siva humbly by means of pleasing words.

The gods said: —

2. O great lord, lord of the gods favourably disposed
to those who seek refuge, you always bestow happiness upon
the saintly men and quell the misery of your devotees.

3. O lord, you exhibit wonderfully good divine sports
and are available by devotion. You are incapable of being
attained or propitiated by the evil-minded. Be favourable to
us always.

4. Even the Veda does not know your greatness in
reality. Noble men sing your great glory to the extent of
their intellect.

5. Indra 237 and others sing your secret greatness always
with pleasure and sanctify their own tongue.

337- Indra is called "the thousand-laced". In fact he is 'the
thousand-eyed God'. According to the Puranic tradition, India seduced
Ahalya the wife of the sage Gautama, whereupon the sage cursed him to
bear on his body a thousand marks resembling the female organ which
were afterwards changed to eyes. He is therefore called Sahasraksa 'the
thousand-eyed'.

Hudrmarfikita

915

* 6. O lord of gods, by your favour even a sluggish

person realizes Brahman. The Vedas say that you are
always attainable by devotion.

7. You are merciful to the distressed. You are all
pervasive. You manifest yourself by good devotion. You
are free from aberrations. You are the goal of the good.

8. O Lord Siva, by devotion alone people have attained
the power of miracles. They became indifferent to the
pleasures they enjoy or the miseries they have to face.

9. O lord, it was by his devotion alone that the foun-
der of the Yadu family, the devotee Dasarha and his wife
KalavatI attained great success-

10. O lord of gods, the king Mitrasaha and his be-
loved queen Madayanti attained great salvation through
devotion to you.

1 1 . The daughter of the elder brother of the king of
Kekayas named SauminI attained happiness inaccessible to
even great Yogins, by his devotion to you.

12. O lord, by devotion to you the excellent king
Vimarsana enjoyed worldly pleasures for seven births in various
ways and ultimately attained the goal of the good.

13. The excellent king Candrasena enjoyed all pleasures,
became free from misery and experienced great happiness
here and hereafter by devotion to you.

14. Srikara, the son of a cowherdess and the disciple
of Mahavira enjoyed the goal of the good here and great
happiness hereafter by his devotion to you.

15. You removed the misery of the king Satyaratha
and you conferred good goal on him. You enabled the
prince Dharmagupta to cross the ocean of worldly existence
and made him happy here.

16. O great lord, mercifully you made the brahmin
Sucivrata strictly adhering to devotion to you gain knowledge
along with his mother and made him rich too.

17. By his devotion to you the excellent king Gitravar-
man perpetually enjoyed in this world the pleasures inacces-
sible even to the gods and attained salvation, the goal of the
good.

18. The prince Candrarigada along with his wife

§16 divafiurfina

Simantinl got rid of all miseries, enjoyed happiness and
attained great goal.

1 9. The brahmin named Mandara who became a base
knave indulging in lecherous association with prostitutes, O
Siva, worshipped one of your women devotees and attained
salvation along with her.

20. O lord, thanks to the favour of a devotee of yours,
the prince Bhadrayu attained happiness free from pain and
achieved great goal along with his mother.

21. O lord Siva, even wicked sinners eating forbidden
foodstuffs and indulging in sexual dalliance with all sorts of
women, have been liberated by their service to you.

22. O Siva, Sambara a devotee of yours, smearing him-
self with the ashes of the funeral pyre, attained your region
along with his wife, thanks to his regular adherence to
Bhasma.

23-25. O lord, the son of Bhadrasena and the son of
his minister both of virtuous and auspicious rites and regular
wearers of Rudraksa beads, enjoyed good pleasures here and
became liberated, thanks to your grace. The two devotees
who had been monkey and a cock in a previous birth be-
came the ornaments of Rudra. O lord, always engaged in
uplifting the devotees, the two courtesans Pihgala and
Mahananda attained the goal of the good, thanks to their
devotion to you.

26. The brahmin girl Sarada who had become a widow
in childhood, was fortunate to regain her lost husband
and was blessed with sons, thanks to the power of devotion to
you.

27. Binduga, a brahmin only in name, a harlot monger
and his wife Cancula 238 attained great salvation on hearing
your glory.

28. O lord Siva, friend of the distressed, storehouse of
mercy, many living beings have attained the goal in this way.

29. O lord Siva, you are greater than Prakrti and
Purusa. You are the Brahman. You are devoid of attributes

238. For the narratives of Binduga and Cancula see SP chs 3-5 'the
glory of Sivapurana'. Vancuka in the printed text is a misprint for
Cancula.

Rudrasaihhitft

917

as well as the support of attributes in the forms of Brahma,
Visnu and Rudra.

30. You are free from aberrations, O lord of all, you
perform different activities incessantly. O lord Siva, we all,
Brahma and others are your slaves-

31. O lord of gods, be pleased. O Siva, protect us
ever. O lord, we are your subjects and we ever seek refuge
in you."

Sanatkumdra said: —

32. After eulogising Brahma, other gods and the great
sages, the gods remained silent with their minds fixed on
Siva's feet.

33. The great lord Siva heard the auspicious prayer
of the gods, conferred boons on them and then vanished
immediately from the scene.

34. Brahma and other gods were jubilant as the
enemies had been killed. Delightfully singing the great glory
of Siva, they left for their own abodes.

35. This great narrative describing the suppression of
Jalandhara is a sanctifying story of lord Siva that destroys
all sins.

36. This prayer of the gods is holy and destructive of
sins. It bestows happiness on the devotees and is delightful
to Siva.

37. He who reads or teaches the two narratives, enjoys
great happiness here and becomes the lord of Ganas here-
after.

CHAPTER TWENTYSIX

(The Vanishing of Visnu" s delusion)

Visnu said: —

1 . O son of Brahma, obeisance be to you. O excellent
devotee of Siva, you are blessed, since you have narrated
this highly divine and auspicious story of Siva.

2. O sage, now narrate lovingly the story of Visnu.
After enchanting Vrnda what did he do ? Where did he go ?

918

Sioapurdna

Sanalkumara said : —

3. O Vyasa, listen. O intelligent excellent devotee of
Siva, listen to the good story of Visnu mingled with the
story of Siva.

4. When Brahma and other gods became silent, lord
Siva, favourably disposed to those who seek refuge in him,
was delighted and said.

Siva said : —

5. O Brahma, O ye excellent gods, it is for you that
Jalandhara has been killed by me although he was a part of
myself. Truth. It is the truth that I say.

6. O dear gods, tell me the truth. Have or have not
you attained happiness ? It is for you that I indulge in sports
though I am always free from all aberrations.

Sanatkumara said : —

7. Then Brahma and other gods, with eyes blooming
with delight, bowed to Siva with bent heads and mentioned
to him the activities of Visnu.

The gods said: —

8. "O great lord, all the gods have been saved by you
from the danger of the enemy but another event has hap-
pened. What shall we do in that respect ?

9. O lord, Vrnda was fascinated by Visnu. She
burnt herself on the pyre and attained the great goal.

10. But Visnu deluded by your illusion is excessively
agitated by the beauty of Vrnda. He has smeared himself
with the ashes from her pyre.

11. Although advised and consoled by the Siddhas
and sages, and pacified by us with respect, Visnu deluded by
your illusion does not come to his former self.

12. O lord Siva, be pleased. Restore Visnu to his
former self. This entire creation born of Prakrti and consis-
ting of the mobile and immobile beings, is subservient to
you".

Sanatkumara said: —

13. On hearing these words of the gods, lord Siva of

Rudrasarhhita

919

great sports and free to act as lie pleases replied to them as
they stood with palms joined in reverence.

Lord Siva said: —

14. O Brahma, O gods, you listen to my words atten-
tively. My illusion deludes all the worlds. It cannot be
transgressed.

15. The entire universe including gods and human
beings is subservient to it. Visnu too was deluded by that
illusion and became a prey to the lustful love.

16. That illusion is given various names : Uma,
MahadevI, the mother of the three deities, the greatest, pri-
mordial Mulaprakrti and the lovely woman Parvati.

17. O gods, seek refuge in that fascinating goddess
named illusion, for the removal of Visnu's delusion. She is
the bestower of cherished desires and worthy of being
sought refuge in.

18 Sing the eulogy that satisfies my Sakti. If she is
delighted, she will carry out your tasks.

Sanatkumara said : —

19. O Vyasa, after saying this to the gods, the five-
faced lord Siva vanished suddenly along with his Ganas.

20. At the bidding of Siva, Brahma and other gods
including Indra mentally eulogised to the primordial Prakrti
favourably disposed to her devotees.

The gods said : —

2 1 . We bow to the primordial Prakrti from which ema-
nate the three attributes Sattva, Rajas and Tamas that
cause creation, sustenance and annihilation, and by whose
desire the universe is evolved and dissolved.

22. May the great illusion save us, the great Prakrti
that presides over the twentythree principles, 239 well enunciated

239. The printed text is corrupt. Read ^rft f%5Tf% I T<TT'T f° r

^far^pT'rrT'T Op. Bhagavata ^f^f^^Tc^TfTT WT 3-6-a : The

group of S3 Tattvas consists of to series, 5 gross and 5 subtle elements,
intellect, ego and mind.

920

Sivapurana

in the universe. We bow to the primordial Prakrti whose
forms and activities are not known to the three worlds.

23. We bow to the primordial Prakrti favourably dis-
posed to the devotees. Persons endowed with devotion to her
are not bedevilled by poverty, delusion and destruction.

24. O great goddess, please carry out our tasks. O
ParvatI, please remove the delusion of Visnu. O goddess
Durga, obeisance be to you.

25-26. O Siva, when the fight between Jalandhara and
Siva started, for killing Jalandhara, Vrnda was deluded by
Visnu at the bidding of Gaurl. She was made to forsake
her virtue and reduced to ashes in the fire. She attained
salvation.

27. Jalandhara was slain in the battle by Siva who
took pity on us and who always blesses his devotees. We
have been relieved from his fear.

28. It is at his bidding that we all have sought refuge
in you. You and Siva, O goddess, are always engaged in
uplifting your devotees.

29. Infatuated by the beauty of Vrnda, Visnu is stay-
ing there itself. He has lost his balance. He is deluded.
He has smeared himself with the ashes from her pyre.

30. O great goddess deluded by your illusion, Visnu
does not come to his own though advised and consoled by
the gods and Siddhas.

31. O great goddess, be merciful. Enlighten Visnu so
that he shall return to his region and carry out the task of
the gods with a settled mind.

32. Eulogising thus, the gods saw a sphere of refulgence
in the sky pervading all the quarters with its flames.

33. O Vyasa, Brahma and other gods including Indra
heard a celestial voice from the sky bestowing their desire.

The celestial voice said: —

34. O gods, it is I who stand in three forms by the
variety of the three attributes, Rajas, Sattva and Tamas. The
three forms are Gauri, Laksmi, and Sarasvati.

35. Hence you go to them respectfully at my bidding.
If they are pleased they will fulfil your desire.

RudrasamhUd

921

Sanatkumara said'. —

36. Even as the gods were listening to this speech with
eyes gaping with wonder, the refulgence vanished.

37. On hearing the speech, the gods, urged by it bow-
ed respectfully to Gauri, Laksmi and Sarasvatl.

38. Brahma and other gods eulogised the goddesses
with various speeches and bowed their heads.

39. Then the goddesses appeared in front of them,
suddenly, O Vyasa, illuminating the quarters with their
wonderful brilliance.

40. On seeing them, the gods eulogised them with great
devotion and delighted minds. They submitted what they
wanted to be carried out.

41. Thus bowed and eulogised, the goddesses who are
favourably disposed to the devotees, faced the gods and
addressed them eagerly after giving them seeds.

The goddesses said: —

42. "Sow these seeds in the place where Visnu is
standing. Then your task will be fulfilled."

Sanatkumara said: —

43. O sage, after saying this, the goddesses, the Saktis
of &va, Visnu and Brahma, possessed of the three attributes,
vanished.

44. Then Brahma and other gods including Indra took
the seeds and went to the place where Visnu was standing.

45. The gods sowed those seeds in the ground where
the pyre of Vrnda had been lit. O sage, they stayed there
thinking these as parts of Siva's Sakti.

46. Out of the seeds sown, O great sage, three plants
shot up — the Myrobalan, the Jasmine and the holy basil.

47. The Myrobalan is born of the creator's Sakti, the
jasmine of Laksmi and holy basil of Gauri, born of the at-
tributes Tamas, Sattva and Rajas.

48. O sage, on seeing the plants in the forms of ladies
Visnu stood up with excitement of infatuation over them.

49. On seeing them he was deluded and his mind
became overwhelmed by lust. The two plants — the holy
basil and Myrobalan looked at him lovingly. •

922

SivapurSna

50. The womanlike plant born out of the seed by the
Sakti of LaksmI became jealous of him.

51. Hence the plant came to be called Varvari 240 (a
kind of wild basil) and was despised by all . The Dhatri
and the Tulasi are always pleasing to him due to their love
and affection.

52. Then Visnu forgot his sorrow. Accompanied by
them he went to Vaikuntha fully satisfied. He was bowed to
by all the gods.

53. O great brahmin, myrobolan and the holy basil
shall be understood as the favourites of gods in the month of
Karttika, especially of Visnu.

54. There too, O great sage, the holy basil is the most
blessed and the most excellent. Except Ganesa it delights
every deity and bestows all desires.

55. On seeing Visnu settled again in Vaikuntha,
Brahma, Indra and other gods bowed to and eulogised him
and then left for their respective abodes.

56. O excellent sage, Visnu too, settled in his own
world, freed from delusion and enlightened, became happy
remembering Siva as before.

57. This is the narrative that destroys sins, bestows
desires to all men. It increases perfect knowledge and quells
all aberrations of base lust.

58. He who reads or teaches this every day, he who
hears or narrates this with devotion attains the greatest goal.

59. The intelligent man who reads this most excellent
narrative and goes to war will certainly be victorious. There
is no doubt about it.

60. This yields the knowledge of Vedas to the brahmins,
victory to the Ksatriyas, wealth to the VaiSyas and happiness
to the Sudras.

61. O Vyasa, it confers devotion to Siva, it destroys
the sins of all persons, it bestows the good goal here and
hereafter.

340. Malati (Jasmine),. born of the seed provided by LaksmI, is
called Barbari or Varvari and forbidden in the worship of Vi?nu.

Rudrasarhhitd

923

CHAPTER TWENTYSEVEN

(The birth of Sankhacuda)

Sanatkumara said: —

1 . O sage, now listen to another story of Siva lovingly,
by listening to which the devotion to Siva is stabilised.

2. The story narrates how the heroic Danava Sankha-
cuda who harassed the gods was killed by Siva in the battle
by means of his trident.

3. O Vyasa, listen lovingly to the story of Siva,
divine, holy and destructive of sins. I shall narrate the
same because of my affection to you.

4. The sage Kasyapa son of Marici and grandson of
Brahma was a virtuous Prajapati engaged in creation. He
possessed great learning.

5. Daksa gave him his thirteen daughters in marriage.
The descendants of these women are many and they cannot
be enumerated easily.

6. The whole universe consisting of gods and others the
mobile and immobile is born of them. Who in the three
worlds can mention this in detail ?

7. Listen to what is relevant to the context wherein
the divine sports of Siva too can be seen. It is conducive to
the increase of devotion. I am narrating the same.

8. Among the wives of Kasyapa the excellent lady
Danu was one. She was very beautiful, chaste and tenderly
nurtured by her husband with all devotion and love.

9. Many powerful sons were born to that lady Danu.
Their names are not mentioned O sage, by the fear of
dilation.

1 0. One of them is Vipracitti who was very powerful
and valorous. His virtuous son Dambha of self-control was
a great devotee of Visnu.

11-12. No son was born to him. Hence the hero

became worried. He made the preceptor Sukra his initiator and

learnt the mantra of Krsna. He performed a great penance

in the holy centre Puskara 241 for a hundred thousand years.

241. Puskara is a sacred forest near Ajmer in Rajasthan. There is a
celebrated lake where Brahma set up a phallic image of Siva. It is a
famous place of pilgrimage in Rajaputana..

924

SivapurdTia

Seating himself in a stable pose he performed the Japa of
Krsna mantra for a long time.

13. While be was performing the penance, an unbear-
able refulgence sprang up blazing from his head and spread
everywhere.

14. All the gods, sages and Manus were scorched by
that. With Indra ahead they sought refuge in Brahma.

15. Bowing to Brahma, the bestower of riches, they
eulogised him and narrated to him this event.

16. On hearing that, Brahma accompanied them
to Vaikuntha in order to tell the same to Visnu in its
entirety.

17. After going there they stood humbly joining their
palms in reverence. After bowing to him they eulogised
Visnu the lord of the three worlds, the great saviour.

The gods said: —

18. "O lord of gods we do not know how this hap-
pened to cause this. Please tell us. By what refulgence have
all of us been scorched ?

19. O friend of the distressed, you are the protector of
the distressed and dispirited servants. Save, O lord of Laksmi
who are worthy of being sought refuge by us.

Sanatkumara said: —

20. On hearing these words of Brahma and other gods,
Visnu who is favourably disposed to those who seek refuge,
said laughingly and lovingly.

Visnu said: —

21. "O gods, be calm and unperturbed, do not be
afraid,. . No deluge will take place, this is not the time of
dissolution.

22. The Asura Dambha a devotee of mine is perform-
ing a penance seeking for a son. I shall bestow a boon and
quieten him."

Sanatkumara said: —

23. O sage, on being consoled thus, Brahma and

itudrasathhita

other gods became encouraged and they returned to their
respective abodes.

24. In order to grant the boon, Visnu went to
Puskara where Dambha was performing penance.

25. On reaching there Visnu consoled Dambha who
was repeating his name and told him the pleasing words —
"Mention the boon you wish to be granted."

26. On hearing his words and seeing Visnu standing
m front, the Danava bowed with great devotion and
eulogised him again and again.

Dambha said: —

27. "O lord of gods, Obeisance be to you, O Lotus-
eyed one, O lord of LaksmI, O lord of the three worlds,
please take pity on me.

28. Please give me a powerful and valorous son who
will be your devotee, who will be invincible to the gods and
who will conquer the three worlds."

Sanatkumara said: —

29. On being thus requested by the lord of Danavas,
Visnu granted him the boon. O sage, making him desist
from the penance he vanished from the place.

30. When Visnu went away, the lord of Danavas
performed obeisance to that direction and returned home,
his penance having been fulfilled and his desires realised.

31. Within a short time, his fortunate wife became
pregnant. Illuminating the inner apartments of her abode
by her brilliance she shone much.

32. O sage, it was Sudama a cowherd, one of the
leading comrades of Krsna who had been cursed by Radha,
that entered her womb.

33. At the proper time the chaste lady gave birth to a
brilliant son. The father invited sages and performed the
post-natal rites.

34. O excellent brahmin, when the boy was born
there was great jubilation. On an auspicious day the
father named him "Sankhacuda."

35. In the abode of his father he grew up like the

§26"

tfivapuranii

moon in the bright half. Learning all lores in childhood
he became resplendent.

36. With his childish sports he increased the parents'
delight. He became a special favourite of all the members
of the family.

CHAPTER TWENTYEIGHT

( The penance and marriage of Sankhacuda )

Sanatkumara said: —

1. As instructed by Jaigisavya, Sankhacuda performed
a penance in Puskara for a long time in order to propitiate
Brahma with devotion.

2. He concentrated his mind, controlled the senses and
organs of activities, and muttered the mantra of Brahma
imparted by his preceptor.

3. Lord Brahma, the preceptor of the worlds, went to
Sankhacuda who was practising penance at Puskara in
order to grant him the boon soon.

4. Brahma said to him : "Tell me the boon you wish
to choose." On seeing Brahma, the king of Danavas bowed
to him humbly and eulogised him with words of devotion.

5. He requested Brahma to grant him the power of
being invincible to the gods. With a delighted mind,
Brahma said "Be it so."

6. He gave Sankhacuda the divine amulet of Srikrsna
the most auspicious of all auspicious things in the universe,
that yielded victory everywhere.

7. ''You now go to Badari. There you marry TulasI
who is performing penance just at her own will.

8. She is the daughter of Dharmadhvaja." Brahma
instructed him thus and vanished even as he was watching
him.

9. Then Sankhacuda whose penance had been fruitful
in the holy centre of Puskara tied the most auspicious
amulet round his neck.

kudrasarhhita

52?

10. At the behest of Brahma, the Danava whose
desire had been achieved through penance went to
Badarikasrama 242 with delight beaming in his face.

11. The Danava Sankhacuda casually visited the place
where the daughter of Dharmadhvaja, TulasI was performing
the penance.

12. The smiling beautiful gentle woman fully bedecked
in ornaments cast loving glances at the great man.

13. On seeing that charming, tender, beautiful and
chaste lady, he stopped near her and spoke to her
sweetly.

Sankhacuda said: — ■

14. "Who are you, please? Whose daughter ? What
are you doing ? Why do you stay here and observe silence.
Consider me as your devoted slave."

Sanatkumara said: —

15. On hearing these words she spoke to him
lovingly.

Tulasi said: —

16. I am the daughter of Dharmadhvaja. I am
performing penance. I stay in this hermitage. Who are
you ? You can go as you please.

•17. The entire class of women is fascinating. It
enchants even Brahma, not to speak of others. It is
censurable, poisonous and deceptive. It is illusion and a
fetter to the devout and the faithful.

Sanatkumara said: —

18. Tulasi thus spoke to the passionate Dambha and
stopped. On seeing her smiling he began to say.

242- Badarikasrama, known as Badarl Narayana or Badarlnatha
is situated on a peak of the Himalayas in Garhwal. It has a temple
ofVisnu in his dual form of Nara-Narayana. According to Varaha
Puraria(l40. 4-<i) it is one of the three abodes of Visrm on the Himalayas,
the other two being Kokamukha and Lohargala. For details see Sircar
GAMI. P. 219.

928

Sivapurana

Safikhacuda said: —

19. O gentle lady, what you said now is not entirely
false. It is partially true also. Now listen to me.

20. You are the foremost among chaste ladies. I am
not a lusty person of sinful nature. I think you too are
not like that.

21. I come to you now at the behest of Brahma.
O gently lady, I shall take your hand by the Gandharva
'rites' of marriages

22. I am Sankhacuda, the router of the gods. O
gentle lady, don't you know me ? Have I never been
heard by you ?

23. I am a scion of the family of Danu. I am a
Danava, the son of Dambha. In the previous birth I was
the cowherd Sudama, a comrade of Krsna.

24. Due to the curse of Radha I have become a
Danava now. By the favour of Krsna I remember events
of previous birth. I know everything.

Sanatkumara said: —

25. After saying thus to her, Sankhacuda stopped.
Tulasi who was thus addressed truthfully and respectfully
by the king of Danavas, was delighted and she spoke
smilingly.

Tulasi said: —

26. I have now been overpowered by you who have
Sattvika thoughts. That man is blessed in the world who
is not overwhelmed by a woman.

27. Even though he may be the observer of sacred
rites, if he is overpowered by a woman he becomes impure
and unclean, so he remains for ever. The manes, gods and
human beings censure him.

28-29. A brahmin is purified from impurity arising
from births or deaths in the family, after the tenth day. A
Ksatriya in twelve days, a Vaisya in fifteen days and a
Sudra in a month. This is what the Vedas enjoin. But a
henpecked man can never be purified till death.

30. The manes do not receive willingly the balls of

kudrasarhhita

rice or holy waters offered by him. Nor do the gods accept
his offering of fruits and flowers.

31. Of what avail are words of wisdom, penance,
Japas, Homas, worships, learning or charitable gifts to that
wretch whose mind is deadened by his thoughts of women?

32. You have been tested by me in order to know
your knowledge and power. A woman must test her bride-
groom before wooing him.

Sanatkwnara said: —

33. Even as TulasI was saying so, Brahma the creator
came there and spoke these words.

Brahma said: —

34. "O Sankhaciida, why do you hold discussion with
her? Marry her according to the Gandharva 243 form of

, marriage.

35. You are jewel among men. And she, the chaste
lady, is a jewel among women. The union of an intelligent
lady with an intelligent man must necessarily be virtuous.

36. O king, unless forced who will abandon a chance
of happiness ? He who does so unforced is a brute. There
is no doubt about it:

37. O chaste lady, why shall you test such a good
and noble husband? He can suppress the gods, Asuras and
Danavas too.

38. O beautiful woman, you may sport with him for
long, as you please, in different centres all over the world.

39. In the end, he will attain &rikrsna again in the
Goloka. After he is dead, you will attain the four-armed
lord in Vaikuntha."

Sanatkumara said: —

40. After conferring blessings, Brahma returned to his

243. According to Mami (iii. 32)' in the Gandharva form of
marriage, the bride and the bridegroom met each other of their own accord
and their meeting consummated in copulation born of passion. It was called
Gandharva because it prevailed in a tribe called Gandharva which lived
on the slopes of the Himalayas. It was considered the most natural form
because the bride and the bridegroom attracted each other without any
force or fraud. It became obsolete because it was performed without
sacred rituals and originated from lust. See H.S. PP. 162-164..

§3b tivapurdtla

abode. The Danava accepted her by means of the Gandharva
rite.

41. After marrying her he went to his father's place.
In the beautiful apartment he sported with her.

CHAPTER TWENTYNINE

( The previous birth of Sankhacuda)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. When Sankhacuda returned home duly married,
after performing the penance and receiving the boons,
Danavas and others rejoiced.

2. Leaving their world and accompanied by their
preceptor, the Asuras assembled and approached the
Danava.

3. They bowed to that resplendent Danava their lord, .
humbly and eulogised him with love and respect. They
stayed with him alone.

4. On seeing the family preceptor, Sankhacuda, son
of Dambha bowed to him with devotion and prostrated
before him with respect.

5. After conferring his excellent benediction, Sukra, the
family preceptor, narrated the tales of the gods and Danavas.

6. He expatiated on the natural enmity of the two,
the invariable defeat of the Asuras, the victory of the gods
and the help rendered by Brhaspati.

7. With the consent of the Asuras, the preceptor
Sukra made him the emperor of Danavas, Asuras and
others with jubilant festivities.

8. The delighted Asuras were highly joyous. They
offered him presents lovingly.

9. The son of Dambha, the heroic and valorous
Sankhacuda shone as the Emperor of Asuras.

10. Taking a vast army of Daityas, Danavas and
Rak§asas and seated in his chariot, he marched quickly to the
city of Indra 244 with the intention to conquer it.

11. The leader of the Danavas going in the midst of

344. The capital city of Indra's dominions, also called Amaravati,
is situated in the vicinity of Mount Meru. It is also called Devapura,
city of the gods.

ttudrasamhita

his attendants shone as the moon in the midst of stars or
as the sun in the midst of planets.

12. On hearing that Sankhacuda was coming, Indra
the king of heaven, accompanied by the gods made prepara-
tions for a fight.

13. Then a tremendous fight ensued between the
Asuras and the gods delighting the heroic and terrifying the
cowardly. It caused hairs to stand on end.

14. When the warriors roared in the battle, there was
a tumultuous noise. The sound of drums and other instru-
ments encouraged the warriors.

15. The powerful gods fought with the Asuras fero-
ciously and defeated them. They were afraid and fled.

16. On seeing them fleeing, their leader Sankhacuda
roared like a lion and fought with the gods.

17. With his power and force he distressed the gods.
The gods could not endure his dazzling brilliance. They
fled.

18. The gods thus vanquished took shelter in the caves
of the mountains. They lost their independence. They were
subjugated. They lost their lustre like the frozen sea.

19. Thus the son of Dambha, the valorous leader of
the Danavas, conquered all the worlds and took up the
powers of the gods.

20. He kept the three worlds under his control. He
partook of all the shares in sacrifices. He became Indra
and ruled the universe.

21. He carried the tasks of Kubera, Moon, Sun, Fire,
Yama and Vayu, according to his ability.

22-23. The great hero, the powerful Sankhacuda
became overlord of the gods, Asuras, Danavas, Raksasas,
Gandharvas, serpents, Kinnaras, Nagas and in fact of all
the people of the three worlds.

24. Thus Sankhacuda enjoyed the kingdom of the
worlds for many years. He became a great Emperor.

25. There was no famine, plague or pestilence in his
realm. The planets were not inauspicious. There was no

Sivapuran

worry or sickness among- the people. The subjects were
happy for ever.

26. Even without being tilled, the earth yielded plenty
of plants and vegetation. Many medicinal herbs grew up.
Plants remained always fruitful and juicy.

27. The oceans yielded plenty of gems, and jewels.
Abundant flowers and fruits grew up on the Earth. Rivers
flowed with pure crystal clear water.

28. Excepting the gods all living beings were happy
and free from distress. The people of four castes and stages
of life maintained their respective duties and activities.

29. When he ruled, none was miserable in the three
worlds. Only the gods were reduced to misery and that
too by their fratricidal jealousy and enmity.

30. Sankhacuda was a close friend of Krsna, the
resident of Goloka. He was powerful, and always engaged
in devotion to Krsna.

31. O sage, although he was a Danava, his nature
was different. He was born as a Danava due to a previous
curse.

32. O dear, thereafter, the defeated gods, deprived of
their kingdom, consulted among themselves and went to
Brahma's assembly chamber along with the sages.

33. They saw the creator and bowed to and eulogised
him. With distress they explained to him everything in detail.

34. After consoling the gods and the sages, Brahma
accompanied by them went to Vailcuntha that yields
happiness to the good. -*

35. Accompanied by the gods, Brahma saw the lord
of Laksmi decorated with a crown, earrings and a garland
of wild flowers.

36-37. On seeing Vi§nu bearing Sankha, Cakra, mace
and the lotus, the lord with four arms, yellow garments,
accompanied by Nandana, Siddhas, Brahma and other gods
bowed to the lord along with the great sages. They
eulogised him with palms joined in reverence.

The gods said: —

38. "O lord of the universe, lord of the gods, O lor

Rudrasariihita

933

of Vaikuntha, save us who have sought refuge in you, O
illustrious Visnu, O elderly one in the three worlds.

39. O lord Visnu, O lord of the three worlds, you
alone are the protector of the worlds. O supporter of
Laksmi, O Govinda, O the vital air of the devotees,
Obeisance be to you."

40. After eulogising thus,, all the gods cried in front
of Visnu. On hearing it lord Visnu spoke to Brahma thus.

Visnu said: —

41. Why have you come to Vaikunjiha inaccessible
even to Yogins. What distress has befallen you. Tell me
just here.

Sanatkumara said; —

42-43. On hearing the words of Visnu and bowing to
him with palms joined in reverence he narrated to him
the activities of Sankhacuda and the distress suffered by
the gods.

44. On hearing that Visnu who knew everything
laughed. The lord then told Brahma the secret of Sankhaciida.

Lord Visnu said: —

45. O lotus-born Brahma, I know everything about
Sankhacuda, a great devotee of mine, of great splendour
and who had been formerly a cowherd.

46. Hear all the details about him, the old narrative.
There is nothing to be suspected. Siva will necessarily
perform what is good.

47-50. His region called Sivaloka is greater than the
greatest. It is above everything. Siva, the supreme Brahman,
the great god shines there. He is the presiding deity of
Prakrti and Purusa. He wears three Saktis. He is both
devoid and possessed of attributes. 245 He has the great
splendour for his form. O Brahma, the three deities
bringing about creation etc. are born of him. 246 They are
Visnu, Brahma and Siva endowed with Sattvika and other

245. See Note 286 P. 379.

246. See Note 273 P. 563. Cp SP. RS. V. 30. 34-35.

934

SivapurSna

attributes. He alone is the supreme soul. He sports there
with Parvati. He is free from illusion. He is the formu-
lator of the eternal and the non-eternal.

51. The Goloka is near it. Siva's cowshed is situated
there. Krsna having my form stays there at Siva's
behest.

52. It is to tend his cows and bulls that he has been
ordered by him. Deriving happiness from him he too sports
there.

53. His wife Radha 2 *' is the mother of the universe.
Her form is greater than Prakrti. It is the fifth 248 sportive
form.

54. Many cowherds and cowherdesses born of her
live there. They are sportively inclined and follow Radha
and Krsna.

55. That very same ( Sudama, now born as Sankhacuda)
has been fascinated by her by Siva's illusion. Cursed by
Radha he is born as a Danava to his distress.

56. Krsna has already ordained that the death of
Sarikhacuda will be by Rudra's trident. Casting off his
body he will become his comrade again.

57. O lord of gods, knowing this you need not have
any fear. Let us seek refuge in Siva. He will do every-
thing conducive to our good.

58. You, I and the gods stand here fearless (due to
that only) .

Sanatkumara said; —

59. After saying this and mentally thinking upon Siva
who, the lord of all, is favourably disposed to his devotees
Visnu went to Sivaloka accompanied by Brahma.

247. Radha was a cowherdess and a favourite mistress of Krsna.
She is worshipped among the Vaisnavas as an incarnation of Laksmi as
Krsna is of Visnu.

248. The energies of Rudra, Visnu and Brahma are the three
embodied forms of Primordial cosmic nature. There is a fourth Energy
called Siva of the attributeless Siva. Radha is the supreme and sportive
fifth form of Prakrti.

Rudrasartihita

935

CHAPTER THIRTY

{Prayer to the lord of gods)

Sanatkumdra said: — -

1-2. O Vyasa, starting then itself along with Brahma,
Visnu, the lord of Laksmi, went to Sivaloka, highly divine,
propless and unearthly. He was glad and his face beamed
with pleasure. The region was strewn over with many gems.
It was highly brilliant.

3-4. The first entrance was of variegated nature with
many Ganas standing there. It was resplendent, lofty and
and beautiful. After reaching it he saw the gatekeepers
seated on gem-set thrones. They had gem-set ornaments and
white garments.

5- They had five faces, three eyes and fair handsome
bodies. They were trident-bearing heroes shining with
Bhasma and Rudraksa.

6. Both Brahma and Visnu bowed to them humbly
and told them that they wanted to see the lord.

7. They permitted them to enter. They saw another
door very beautiful, variegated and very brilliant.

8. They informed the gatekeeper of their desire to
approach the lord. Permitted by them they entered and
saw another door.

9. Thus Brahma entered through fifteen doors and
reached the main threshold. He saw Nandin.

10. After bowing to and eulogising Nandin as
Brahma did before, Visnu was permitted by Nandin and
he entered joyously.

11. Going in, they saw the grand assembly chamber
of Siva, highly decorated and thronged by his attendants
with lustrous bodies.

12. The attendants had similar forms with lord Siva.
They had ten arms, five faces, three eyes and blue necks.
They had auspicious lustre and were brilliant.

13. They were bedecked in ornaments set with gems.
They wore Rudraksas. They had smeared themselves with
the ashes. The chamber was square in shape and beautiful
like the lunar sphere.

936

Sivapurana

14. Gems, necklaces, diamonds, etc. increased its bril-
liance. Valuable precious stones were used to stud them.
It was brightened by lotus petals.

15. Manikya, Padmaraga and other valuable gems
were used in the same. It was very wonderful. It was laid
according to the desire of Siva.

16. It had hundreds of steps leading to it, each made
of Syamantaka stone ; knotted golden threads joined them.
Beautiful sprouts of sandal beautified it.

17. Columns of sapphire supported it. It was richly
decorated. The wind wafted fragrance everywhere.

18. The chamber was a thousand Yojanas wide. Many
servants were in attendance. Visnu the lord of gods saw
Siva seated along with Parvati.

19. Siva was in the midst of his attendants like the
moon surrounded by stars. He was seated in a variegated
throne set with valuable gems.

20. He had a crown on his head, earrings in his
ears. He was embellished with gem necklaces. Ashes were
smeared all over his body. He held a toy lotus.

21. He was smilingly watching the song and dance
going on in front of him.

22. He was calm and delighted in the mind. He was
highly brilliant. He was chewing the fragrant betel leaves
offered by the goddess.

23. He was attended upon by Ganas with white
chowries and eulogised by Siddhas with stooping shoulders
with great devotion.

24-25. The great lord Siva, the progenitor of the three
deities, the lord beyond the reach of attributes, who assumes
and discords his forms as he pleases and is invariable, who is
free from illusion, unborn, the primordial being, the lord of
illusion, greater than the greatest and greater than the
Prakrti and Purusa.

26. On seeing Siva of ■ perfect features, Visnu and
Brahma eulogised him together after bowing to him with
palms joined in reverence.

Visyu and Brahma said: —

27. O lord Siva, lord of the gods, O supreme Brahman,

Rudrasarhhita

937

lord of all. O quiet one that is beyond the three attributes,
O lord progenitor of the three deities.

28. We have sought refuge in you. O lord, save us
who are distressed. O lord Siva, we are harassed by
Sankhacuda and so dejected and well nigh exhausted.
Save us.

29. The region that is adjacent to this place is called
Goloka, Lord Kxsna is its presiding deity.

30. One of his leading attendants and comrades,
Sudama, cursed by Radha and led by fate, has become the
Danava Sankhacuda.

31. O Siva, the gods divested of all powers ousted and
harassed by him roam over the Earth now.

32. Except by you he cannot be killed by any one of
the gods. Please kill him and render the worlds happy.

33. You alone are devoid as well as possessed of
attributes, truthful, of infinite valour, embedded in the good
and greater than Prakrti and Purusa.

34. At creation, O lord, you are Brahma, the creator
through Rajas. O protector of the three worlds, in the
activity of protection through Sattva you are Visnu.

35. In dissolution through Tamas you are Rudra the
annihilator of the universe. In the state free from the three
attributes you are Siva the fourth one, of the form of
brilliance.

36. At your behest, Krsna the protector, goes to Goloka.
Stationed in the middle of your cowshed he sports day and
night.

37. You are the cause of all. You are the lord of all.
You are Brahma, Visnu and Siva. You are free from aber-
rations. You are the constant witness. You are the supreme
soul, the great Isvara. :

38. You are the redeemer of the distressed and the
poor, the protector and the kinsman of the distressed, the

, lord of the worlds. You are favourably disposed to those
who seek refuge in you.

39. O lord of Parvati, uplift us. O lord Siva, be pleased.
O lord, we are subservient to you. You do as you please,
O lord.

938

Sivapurana

Sanatkumara said: —

40 - After saying this, O Vyasa, those two deities, Visnu
and Brahma bowed to Siva and stopped. They joined their
palms in reverence and stood humbly.

CHAPTER THIRTYONE

(diva's advice)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. On hearing these words of the distressed Visnu
and Brahma, Siva laughingly spoke in the rumbling tone of
the cloud.

Siva said: —

2. "O dear Visnu, O Brahma, cast off your fear from
all sides. Certainly something good will result from the
activities of Sankhaciida.

3. I know all the details of his activities factually as
well as those of Sudama the cowherd devotee of Krsna.

4. At my bidding Visnu has assumed the form of
Krsna and is stationed in the cowshed in the beautiful
Goloka presided over by me.

5. Considering himself independent under a delusion he
indulged in many kinds of sportive dalliance like a deluded
licentious person.

6. On seeing his excessive delusion as a result of my
deceptive art I suppressed their virtuous intellect and made
them suffer curse.

7. Having thus performed my sport, I suppressed the
illusion. Regaining knowledge they got rid of delusion and
became well-intentioned.

8. They came near me in a piteous plight. After bow-
ing to me they eulogised me devoutly and humbly with palms
joined in reverence,

9. Overwhelmed by shame they told me all the
details. Dejected, -they lamented before me saying the words
"Save us, O save us."

Rudrasarnhita

939

10. Then I, becoming delighted, told them these words,
Krsna, you forget your fear at my behest.

11. I am the protector, always infused with love. Good
will befall you. All this has happened at my will. There
is no doubt in it.

12. Go to your abode along with Radha and your
comrade. He will become a Danava here in Bharata,
certainly.

13-14. At the proper time I shall redeem you from
the curse". What I told thus Srikrsna and Radha accepted
readily. Srikrsna the intelligent rejoiced and returned to
his abode. There they engaged themselves in propitiating me
and bidding their time.

15. Realising that everything is subject to my control
and his will is not independent, Sudima became the lord of
Danavas as a result of the curse of Radha.

16. The virtuous demon SankhacGda distresses and
harasses the gods always with his might. He is evil-
minded to this extent.

17. He has been deluded by my deception and hence
he seeks the help of evil ministers. But myself being the
chastiser of the wicked you can get rid of his fear quickly".

Sanatkumara said: —

.18. O sage, by the time Siva completed this expatia-
tion in front of Visnu and Brahma, another event happened
there. Listen to it.

19. In the meantime Krsna came there along with
Radha and his attendant cowherds in order to propitiate
Lord Siva.

20. Devoutly bowing to the lord, meeting Visnu with
respect and honoured by Brahma with love he stood there
awaiting Siva's behest.

21. Then he bowed again to Siva with palms joined
in reverence. Realising the principle of Siva and getting, rid
of his delusion Krsna eulogised Siva.

Lord Krsna said: —

22. O supreme God, lord of gods, Supreme Brahmap

940

Sivapurana

and the goal of the good, forgive me my guilt. O supreme
god, be pleased.

23. O Siva 3 everything originates from you. O
supreme lord, everything merges in you. O lord of all, you
are everything. O supreme lord, be pleased.

24. You are the greatest splendour. You are the
eternal being directly pervading everything. O lord of
Gauri, with you as leader, we are well-guided.

25-26. Considering myself above all, I sported about,
under the delusion. I reaped the fruit thereof. He who
went astray was cursed. O lord, my leading comrade
Sudama the cowherd is born as a Danava.

27. O lord of Parvati, uplift us. O supreme lord, be
pleased. Please redeem us from the curse. Save us who have
sought refuge in you.

28. After saying this, Lord Krsna, accompanied by
Radha, stopped. Siva was delighted thereat, Siva who is
favourably disposed to those who seek refuge in him.

Lord Siva said: —

29. "O Kx?na, O lord of cowherdesses leave off your
fear. Be happy. O dear, all this has been brought about
by me with blessing in disguise.

30. Good will befall you. Go back to your excellent
abode. You shall be cautious and guarded in your position
of authority.

31. Sport about as you please after realising me the
greater than the greatest. Accompanied by Radha and your
comrades carry out your task unexasperated and unfluttered.

32. In the excellent Varaha Kalpa, S4B you shall undergo
the effect of the curse along with the young damsel Radha
and then attain your region.

33. O Krsna, your comrade, the most beloved Sudama
is born of a Danava now and he harasses the universe.

34. He has become a Danava, an enemy of the gods,
named Sankhaciida as a result of the power of Radha's
curse. He hates and belongs to the party of Daityas.

249. Varahakalpa, identical with Sveta- Varaha or §veta Kalpa, is
one of the thirty Kalpas known to the Puranas. Each Kalpa lasts for a
specified period and is repeated in order of succession.

tiudrasamhita

35. Divested of their powers, ousted and harassed by
him for ever, the demoralized gods including Indra have
fled to the ten directions.

36. It is for their sake that Brahma and Visnu have
come here and sought refuge in me. There is no doubt in
this that I will relieve them of their distress."

Sanatkumara said: —

37. After saying this, he addressed Krsna again
eagerly after consoling Visnu and Brahma with words that
quelled their agony.

Siva said: —

38. "O Visnu, O Brahma, lovingly listen to my words.
O dear ones, go quickly for the pleasure of the gods. Be
fearless.

39. Go to Rudra, resident of Kailasa, 250 who has my
excellent and perfect form. He has manifested himself for the
task of the gods with a separate form and features.

40. O Visnu, it is for this purpose that the lord assum-
ing my form fully and perfectly stays on the mountain
Kailasa favouring the devotees by being subservient to them.

41. There is no difference in him from us both. He
shall be served by you two and all living beings— mobile
and immobile as well as the gods and others always.

42. He who differentiates between us falls into hell.
In this life too he will attain stress and be devoid of sons
and grandsons.

Sanatkumara said: —

43. After bowing again and again to the lord of Parvati
who had spoken thus, Krsna returned to his abode accom-
panied by Radha.

44. O Vyasa, Visnu and Brahma became delighted
and relieved of fear. After bowing again and again to Siva
they hastened to Vaikuntha.

250. Mount Kailasa is a part of the Himalayan range lying to the
north of Manasa-sarovara, not far off from the origin of Ghogra (Sar*yu)
river. The detailed description of the mount is found in the Matsya P.
Ch. I3i.

942

45. Having come there and mentioning everything to
the gods, Brahma and Visnu went to Kailasa taking the
gods with them.

46-47. On seeing lord Siva there, the lord and hus-
band of Parvati, who had taken a body for protecting the
distressed, the lord of the gods possessed of attributes, they
eulogised him as before with devotion and choking words.
They joined their palms in reverence humbly and with
drooping shoulders.

The gods said: —

48. O great god, lord of the gods, O Siva, the lord of
Parvati, we seek refuge in you. Please save the terrified
gods.

49. Please slay Sankhacuda the king of Asura and the
destroyer of the gods. The gods have been defeated and
harassed by him.

50. Like men they are roaming on the earth divested
of their powers. Their region the Devaloka has become
very dreary to look at due to fear.

51. O uplifter of the distressed, O ocean of mercy,
redeem the gods, from this exigency. O great lord, save
Indra from fright by killing that ruler of Danavas.

Sanatkumara said: —

52. ''On hearing the words of the gods, Siva favour-
ably disposed to his devotees spoke to them laughingly in the
rumbling tone of the cloud.

. Lord Siva said: —

53. O Visnu, O Brahma, O Gods, return to your own
abodes by all means. I shall kill Sahkhacuda along with
his followers and attendants. There is no doubt about it.

Sanatkumara said: —

54. On hearing the words of lord Siva sweet as nectar
they were excessively delighted considering the Danava
already killed.

55. After bowing to lord Siva, Visnu went to Vaikunjha

Rudrasamhitd §43

and Brahma to Satyaloka. The god and others went to their
own abodes.

CHAPTER THIRTYTWO

(The Emissary is sent)

Sanatkumara said : —

1. Then lord Siva, Death to the wicked, goal of the
good, decided in his mind to slay Sarikhacuda in accordance
with the wishes of the gods.

2. He made his friend the lord of Gandharvas his
messenger and sent him in a wonderful chariot 251 hurriedly to
Sankhacuda joyously,

3. At the bidding of lord Siva, the emissary went to
the city of the Asura which was superior to Indra's Amaravati
and Kubera's Palace.

4. Reaching there, he saw the excellent abode of
Sankhacuda in the middle; it shone with its twelve entrance
doors with gatekeepers in each.

5. Puspadanta saw the main excellent entrance.
Fearlessly he informed the gatekeeper.

6. Passing beyond that door he joyously went in. It
was spacious, exqxiisitely fine and richly decorated.

7. Going in he saw Sankhacuda, the ruler of Danavas,
seated on a gem-set throne in the midst of heroic warriors.

8. He was surrounded by leading Danavas and served
by three crores of attendants and guarded by another hundred
crores of well armed soldiers moving to and fro.

9. Seeing him, Puspadanta was struck with wonder.
He gave the message of war as conveyed by Siva.

Puspadanta said'. —

10. O great king, O lord, I am the Emissary of Siva

a = r Citraratha flit, of wonderful chariot) seems to be an appella-
tion of Puspadanta. Or Citraratha, lord of Gandharvas, may have
assumed the name Puspadanta as an emissary.

§44

named Puspadatlta. Please listen to what is mentioned by
Siva himself. I am telling you the same.

Siva said'. —

11. Now, give back their kingdom to the gods and
their authority. If not, fight with me, the greatest of the
good warriors.

12. The gods have sought refuge in me, the lord of
the gods and the benefactor of the good. I the infuriated will
certainly slay you.

13. I am Siva, the destroyer. I have granted protec-
tion to all the gods, I am the holder of the chastising rod
for the wicked and favourably disposed to those who seek
refuge in me.

14. O lord of Danavas, consider and let me know one
of the two alternatives specifically, whether you will return
the kingdom or fight.

Puspadanta said:

15. O lord of Danavas, what has been stated by Siva
has been conveyed to you. Siva's words have never gone
in vain.

16. I wish to return to my lord Siva immediately.
After going back what shall I tell Siva, you clearly let me
know.

Sanatkumara said : —

1 7. On hearing these words of Puspadanta who was
the emissary of lord Siva, the king laughed, then spoke to
him,

Sankhacuda said: —

18. I will never return the kingdom to the god. The
earth shall be enjoyed by heroic warriors. O Siva, I shall
fight with you who are a partisan of the gods.

19. The hero who allows another to supercede him is
the basest in the world. Hence O Siva I shall certainly
march towards you just now.

20. I reach there in the morning in the course of my
victorious campaign. O messenger, go and tell all this to Siva.

kticlrasaitihiti

945

Sanatkumdra said: — ■

21. On hearing these words of Sahkhacuda, the emissary
of Siva laughed aloud and then spoke haughtily to the lord
of the Asuras.

Puspadanta said: —

22. O Great king, you cannot face the Ganas of Siva.
Then how can you face lord Siva himself?

23. So return their positions of authority to the gods
entirely. Move immediately to Patala if you wish to live.

24. O excellent Danava, do not regard Siva an ordinary
deity. He is indeed the great soul, the lord of the lord
of all.

25. Indra and other gods abide by his commands.
The Siddhas, the patriarchs, the sages and the serpent lords
all follow suit.

26. He is the overlord of Visnu and Brahma. He is
both possessed and devoid of attributes. By a mere twitch
of his knitted eyebrow everything is dissolved.

27. Siva is the perfect form of gods, the cause of the
annihilation of the worlds, the goal of the good, the destroyer
of the wicked. He is free from aberrations. He is greater
than the greatest.

28. He is the overlord of Brahma. He is lord Siva
even into Visnu. O excellent Danava, his behest should
never be slighted.

29. Of what avail is an unnecessary digression, O
great king. Ponder deeply. Know him to be great lord, the
great Brahman, the knowledge-formed.

30. Return their kingdoms to the gods as well as their
positions of authority. O dear, thus you will fare well.'
Otherwise, terror will strike you.

Sanatkumdra said: —

3 1 . On hearing this, the valorous king of the Danavas,
deluded by his fate spoke to the emissary of Siva thus.

Sankhacuda said: —

32. I shall neither give up kingdom nor the positions

946

Sivapurdna

of authority, without a fight with him. This is certain. I tell
you the truth.

3.3- The entire universe whether mobile or immobile
is subject to the vagaries of time. Everything originates in
time and everything merges into time.

34. Go and tell Siva exactly what I have said to you.
Let him do what is proper. Do not talk much.

Sanatkumara said: —

35. O good sage, Puspadanta the emissary of Siva
when thus addressed by the Asura returned to lord Siva and
told him everything duly.

CHAPTER THIRTYTHREE

( March of The Victorious Lord Siva)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. On hearing those words of the emissary, the
infuriated emperor of the gods, Siva spoke to Virabhadra
and other Ganas.

Siva said.

2-3. t: 0 Virabhadra, O Nandin, O eight Bhairavas ; *
the frontier guards, 252 let the Ganas start along with my sons,
at my bidding. Let those strong ones be ready and fully
equipped with weapons. Let Bhadrakali start with her army
for the war. I start just now for slaying Sarikhacuda".

Sanatkumara said: —

4. Having ordered thus, lord Siva started along with
his army. His delighted heroic Ganas followed him.

5. In the meantime Karttikeya and Ganes"a, the over-
all generals of the army, came near Siva joyously, fully
equipped with weapons and ready for war.

*See Note 255 P. 948.

252. Ksetrapalas arc tutelary deities whose number is given as
fortynine-

Rudrasamhita

947

6-9. The leading chiefs of the Ganas were Virabhadra,
Nandin, Mahakala, Subhadraka, Visalaksa, Bana, Piiigalaksa,
Vikampana, Virupa, Vikrti, Manibhadra, Baskala, Kapila,
Drrghadamstra, Vikara, Tamralocana, Kalankara, Balibhadra,
Kalajihva, Kutlcara, Balonmatta, RanaSlaghya, Durjaya 5
Durgama and others. I shall enumerate the number of Ganas
they had. Listen attentively.

10. Sankhakarna the suppressor of enemies went,
accompanied by a crore Ganas; Kekaraksa went with ten
crores and Vikrta with eight crores.

11. Visakha with sixty four crores; Pariyatrika with
nine crores; Sarvantaka with six crores and the glorious
Vikrtanana too with six crores.

12. The chief of Ganas, Jalaka went with twelve crores;
the glorious Samada seven and Dundubha with eight crores.

13. Karalaksa went with five crores; the excellent
Sandaraka with six crores; Kunduka and Kundaka each went
with crores of Ganas.

14. The leader of Ganas, the most excellent of all,
Vistambha, went with eight crores Pippala and Sannada
went with a thousand crores.

15. Avesana went with eight crores ; Candratapana
with eight crores; MahakeSa the chief of Ganas with a
thousand crores.

16. The heroic Kundin and the auspicious Parvataka
went with twelve crores each; Kalaj, Kalaka and Mahakala
with a hundred crores each.

1 7. Agnika went with a hundred crores, Agnimukha
with a crore, Aditya and Ghanavaha with half a crore.

18. Sannaha and Kumuda went with a hundred crores
each; Amogha, Kokila and Sumantraka with a hundred
crores each.

19. Kakapada and Santanaka went with sixty crores
each: Mahabala with nine crores and Madhu Pingala with
five crores.

20. Nila, DeveJa and Purnabhadra each went with
ninety crores; the powerful Gaturvaktra with seven crores.

21. With thousands, hundreds and twenties of crores
many heroes came there to take part in that festival of
War.

vapurartd

22. Virabhadra came there with a thousand crores of
Bhutas, three crores of Pramathas and sixtyfour crores of
Lomajas.

23. Kastharudha with sixty four crores and Sukes"a
and Vrsabha too similarly. The honourable Virfipaksa and
Sanatana went with sixtyfour crores.

24-26. Talaketu, Sadasya, the valorous Paficasya,
Samvartaka, Caitra, Larikullsa Svayamprabhu, Lokantaka,
Dlptatman, lord Daityantaka, lord Bhrngiriti, the glorious
Devadevapriya, Asani, Bhanuka, Kahkala, Kalaka. Kala,
Nandin and Sarvantaka each went with sixtyfour crores.

27. These and other leading Ganas, powerful and in-
numerable started lovingly to fight fearlessly with Sarikhacuda. '

28. All of them had thousand arms, matted hair for
their crowns, and crescent moon for embellishment. They
had blue necks and three eyes.

29. They wore Rudraksas as ornaments. They had
smeared their bodies with fine Bhasma. They were decorated
with necklaces, earrings, bracelets, coronets and other
ornaments.

30. They resembled Brahma, Indra and Visnu. They
had the attributes of Anima. 283 etc. They were as refulgent as
a crore suns. They were efficient in warfare.

31. O sage, some of them were the residents of the
earth; some of the Patala, some of the sky and some of the
seven heavens. 254

32. O celestial sage, why shall I dilate ? All the
Sivaganas, residents of different regions went to fight with
the Danavas.

33-35. The eight Bhairavas 355 the terrible eleven Rudras, 266

253- eight Siddhis — Anima etc. see Note 203 P. 235.

254. The concept of seven heavens is not peculiar to the Puranas
alone, it is found in the S mitic and Christian sacred lore as well.

255. Bhairava is a fierce form of Siva. The Pun'nas mention eight
Bhairavas : viz ^RfcTTT, STf^I^ , ^FW^ or
^TTST, ! *P?f^> and tsjj. Sometimes other names are given : f^RTST,

sfmmar, wu^, wfNcr, ^r, and faer i

256. Eleven Rudras are regarded as inferior manifestations of Siva.
They are variously named in different Puranas. See Note 127 P. 13ft.

Rudrasamhita

949

the eight Vasus, 257 the twelve Adityas, 258 Indra, the fire god,
the moon, Visvakarman, the Asvins, Kubera, Yama, Nirrti,
Nalakubara, Vayu, Varuna, Budha, Marigala, the other
planets and the valorous Kamadeva went with lord Siva.

36-37. Ugradanda, Ugradamstra, Korata and Kotabha
too went. The great goddess Bhadrakali herself with hundred
arms was seated in an aerial chariot studded with gems.
She was wearing a red cloth and a red garland. She had
smeared red unguents over her body.

38. She was dancing, laughing and singing in a
sweet voice joyously. She was offering protection to her
own people and striking terror to the enemies.

39-44. Her tongue was a yojana long and terrible.
She bore conch, discus, mace, lotus, sword, leather shield,
bows, arrows, skull of circular shape, a yojana in width and
majestic in appearance, a trident that touched the sky, a
yojana long spear, iron club, threshing rod, thunderbolt,
sword, a thick shield, the miraculous weapons of Visnu,
Varuna, Vayu, Narayana, Gandharva, Brahma, Garuda,
Parjanya, Pasupati, Parvata, and Mahesvara, NagapaSa,
Jrrhbhanastra, the Mahavlra, the Saura, the Kalakala and
the Mahanala weapons, the staff of Yama, the Sammohana,
the divine weapon called Samartha. Many such and other
divine weapons she held in her hands.

45. She came and stood there with three crores of
Yoginis and three crores of terrible Pakinis.

46. Bhutas, Pretas, Piiacas, Kusmandas, Brahmarak-
sasas, Vetalas, Yaksas, Kinnaras and Raksasas too came there.

47. Skanda was surrounded by these all. He bowed
to Siva and at his bidding stayed near his father to assist
him.

48. The fearless, fierce Siva gathered his armies and
went to fight Sarikhacuda.

„ 57 Vasus, a class of deities, are rather Vedic personifications of
natural phenomena. They are eight in number STR (Water)
(pole-star), tffa (moon), Spl (earth), 3^55 (wind), (fire),
WW (dawn) and IRS* Ifcht. See SP, VS a 4 . ioi and Note 163 P. 16a.

25 8. Adityas are^twelve in number : fifT, SRTT'T IT, ^
etc. Ttiey are variously named in thePuranas.

Sivapuraqa

950

49, The great god stationed himself at the foot of a
beautiful Banyan tree on the banks of the river Candra-
bhaga, 239 for the emancipation of the gods.

CHAPTER THIRTYFOUR

{The March of Sankhacuda)

Vyasa said: —

1. O dear son of Brahma, O sage of great intellect,
live long for many years. You have narrated the great
story of the mooncrested lord.

2. When Siva's emissary had departed, what did the
valorous Danava, SankhacMa do ? Please mention that in
detail.

Sanatkumara said : —

3. When the messenger returned, the valorous Sarikha-
cuda went in and told his wife Tulasi all the details.

Sankhacuda said: — •

4. O dear lady, infuriated by the words of Siva's
messenger I have prepared for a war. Hence I am going
to fight. You carry out my directions.

Sanatkumara said: —

5. After saying this and slighting Siva, that demon
professing to be wise advised his wife in various ways and
sported with her with delight.

6. Throughout that night, the couple indulged in
sexual d^Iliance. Uttering coaxing and cajoling words,
practising various erotic arts, they immersed themselves in the
ocean of happiness.

359. Candrabhaga, (Mod. Cbenab, Ptolemy's Sandabaga) rises from
the foot of the Himalayas in two rivulets Chandra and Bhaga which join
at Tand'i. The joint stream is known as Ghandrabhaga. See Note 237
P. 235.

Rudrasatfikiia

951

7. He got up in the Brahma Muhurta, 360 and finished
his daily routine in the morning. He then performed the
offering of charitable gifts.

8-9. He crowned his son as the lord of Danavas. He
entrusted his wife, his kingdom and his riches to the care of
his son. When his wife cried and dissuaded him from going
to the war he consoled her by various words of appease-
ment.

10. He called his general and ordered him to be ready
for the war.

Sankhacuda said; —

11. O general, let the heroic warriors start for the
war. Let them be ready for action; they have been trained
well for the war.

12. Let the heroic Danavas and Daityas, the armies
of the powerful Karikas of eightysix divisions well-equipped
in arms set out fearlessly.

13. Let the fifty families of Asuras, having the
heroism and prowess of a crore set out to fight with Siva,
the partisan of the gods.

14. At my bidding, let the hundred armed families of
Dhaumras speedily set out to fight with Siva.

15. At my behest, let the Kalakeyas Mauryas,
Dauhrdas and the Kalakas set out ready for the fight
with Siva.

Sanatkumara said: —

16. After ordering thus, the powerful lord of Asuras
and the Emperor of the Danavas set out surrounded by
thousands of warriors and great armies.

17. His general was an expert in the science and
technique of warfare. He was the best of charioteers a great
hero and skilled in warfare.

18. He had three hundred thousand Aksauhini 261 armies.
He performed the rites of auspicious beginning and came
out of the camp. He was terrible to the watching heroes.

■. 260. See Note igi P. 218.

261. A single Aksauhini consists of ai, 870 elephants, 21870 chariots,
65610 horses and log, 350 foot.

952

Sivapurana

19. Mounting on an aerial chariot of exquisite build
and inlaid with gems, and making obeisance to the elders
and preceptors he set out for the battle.

20-21. In the holy land of Bharata, to the east of the
western ocean and to the west of Malaya 202 mountain, on the
banks of river Puspabhadra, 293 there is a hermitage of
Kapila 264 with an auspicious holy Banyan tree. It is called
Siddhasrama. 265 It is the place where holy men achieve the
result of their action.

22. It is to the north of Sri^aila 266 and to the south of
Gandhamadana. 207 It is five Yojanas in width and a hundred
times as much in length.

23. The river Puspabhadra is very beautiful and full
of transparent water. It confers merits on everyone in
Bharata, like the river Sarasvati.

24. It starts from Himalaya, has its confluence with
Sarasvati. It is the beloved of the briny sea and blessess
people with good fortune.

25. It enters the western ocean where Gomanta 268 is on
its left. Sankhacuda went there and saw the army of Siva.

aG'i. Malaya (Dravidtan. : malai) is identical with the Travancore
hills and the southernmost part of the Western Ghats.

263. It has not been possible to identify this river. According to
the present context, Puspabhadra issues from the Himalayas, rises along
with the Sarasvati and falls into the Western ocean. (Cp. Verses 24-25
of this ch.)

264.. Kapila was an ancient sage who destroyed a hundred thousand
sons of King Sagara.

265. The wide tract of land, the Scene of Kapila's hermitage, lies
to the East of the Western ocean to the West of Travancore hills to the
north of Srisaila hills and to the south of Gandhamadana mountain. .

266. It is one of the most sacred and beautiful hills of the South
overhanging the river krsna.

267. The location of Gandhamadana is highly controversial See
Note 309 P. 405 and Note 66 P. 623. Most probably this is the Hima-
layan Gandhamadana that is referred to here.

268. It is identical with Goa. ■ ■

Rudrasathhitd

953

CHAPTER THIRTYFIVE

( The conversation between Siva and the emissary of Sankhacuda) .

Sanatkumara said: —

1. Stationing himself there, the lord of Danavas sent
a leading Danava of great knowledge as his emissary to
Siva.

2. The emissary went there and saw the moon-crested
lord Siva, of the refulgence of a crore suns, seated at the root
of the Banyan tree.

3. He saw him sitting in a yogic pose, showing the
mystic gesture with his eyes, with a smiling face and body
as pure as crystal and blazing with transcendent splendour.

4-7. Siva held the trident and the iron club. He was
clad in the hide of the tiger. The emissary saw the three-eyed
lord of Parvati, the enlivener of the life of the devotees, the
quiet Siva, the dispenser of the fruits of penance, the creator of
riches, quick in being propitiated, eager to bless the devotees
and beaming with pleasure in his face. He saw the lord of
the universe, the seed of the universe, identical with
the universe and of universal form, born of all, lord of all,
creator of all, the cause of the annihilation of the universe,
the cause of causes, the one who enables devotees to cross
the ocean of hell, the bestower of knowledge, the seed of
knowledge, knowlege-bliss and eternal.

8. On seeing him, the messenger, the leader of Danavas,
descended from his chariot and bowed to him as well as to
Kumar a.

9. He saw Bhadrakali to his left and Karttikeya stand-
ing before him. Kali, Karttikeya and Siva offered him the
conventional benediction.

10. This emissary of Sankhacuda ; had full knowledge of
the sacred texts. He joined his palms in reverence and
bowing to him spoke the auspicious words.

The Emissary said : —

1 1 . "O lord, I am the emissary of Sahkhacuda.and have
come to you. What is it that you desire ? Please tell me-"

954

vr&na

Sanatkumdra said: —

12. On hearing these words of Sankhacuda, lord Siva
became delighted and spoke.

Lord Siva said: — ■

13. O messenger of great intellect, listen to my words
conducive to happiness. After pondering over this, without
disputation, this shall be mentioned to him.

1 4. Brahma is the creator of the worlds and father of
Dharma. He knows virtue. Marici is his son. Kasyapa is
Marici's son.

15. Daksa gave him his thirteen daughters, with
pleasure. Among them the chaste lady Danu increased his
fortune to a great extent.

16. Danu gave birth to four sons called Danavas.
They were vigorous and powerful. Vipracitti of .great
strength and valour was one of them.

17. His son, the virtuous Dambha of great intellect
was the ruler of Danavas. You are his excellent son, a pious
soul, and the lord of Danavas.

18. In previous birth you were a cowherd and an
attendant of Krsna. Among the cowherds you were virtuous.
As a result of Radha's curse, you are born as Danava and
have become the king of Danavas.

19. You are casually born as a Danava. You are
really no Danava. Realising your previous birth you leave
off your inimical attitude to the gods.

20. Don't be malicious towards them. You can enjoy
your kingdom zealously. Do not try to expand your king-
dom nor spoil it.

21. O Danava, return their kingdom to the gods.
Maintain my affection. Stay in your kingdom happily. Let
the gods stay in their region.

22. Do not offend people. Don't be malicious to the
gods. The descendants of Kasyapa are noble and indulge in
pure activities.

23. Whatever sin is there in the world, even including
that of slaughter of a brahmin, does not merit even a
sixteenth part of the sin accruing from the offence towards
kinsmen.

Rudrasarhhita

955

Sanatkumdra said: —

24. These and many such words of advice, auspiciously
based on injunctions of Sruti and Smrti, Siva said to him
enlightening him in an excellent manner.

25. The emissary who had been well instructed by
Sankhacuda who knew his duties well but who had been
deluded by destiny spoke these words humbly.

The messenger said: —

26. O lord, what has been narrated by you is true.
It cannot be otherwise. But let my submission based on
certain factual elements be heard.

27. O lord Siva, verily a great sin has been cited as
the result of offence to kinsmen by you now. But does it
concern only Asuras and not the gods? Please tell me.

28. If it applies to all alike, I shall consider it and
let you know. Please tell me your decision at the outset
and clear my doubts.

29. O lord Siva, why did the discus-bearing lord Visnu
sever the heads of Madhu and Kaitabha 209 the excellent
Daityas in the ocean of dissolution ?

30. Your Majesty too, O Siva, is famous as a partisan
of the gods. Why did you fight with the Tripuras 270 and
reduce them to ashes ?

31. After divesting him of every thing why was Bali
packed off to Sutala and other regions 2 ' 1 ? Did Visnu go to
his threshold as his uplifter ?

32. Why was Hiranyaksa 272 harassed by the gods along
with his brother ? Why were Sumbha 273 and other Asuras
subjected to fall by the gods ?

a6g. The Asuras Madhu and Kaitabha born of the ears of Visnu
in the ocean at the end of a kalpa rushed against Brahma who appealed
for help to Vi§nu. Visnu extended his arms, seized the Asuras and slew
them with his might.

370. For the destruction of Tripuras see SP. B.S. V. Ch. io
27r. It refers to the legend of Visnu who assuming the form of a
dwarf craved from Bali the boon of three steps of ground and then
stepping over heaven and earth in two strides left the nether region for

Bali's abode.

37a. Hiranyaksa and Hiranyakasipu were slain by Visnu in his
Boar and Man-lion incarnations respectively.

273. Sumbha, Nisumbha and other Asuras were killed by the Goddess
Durga at the instance of the gods.

956

Sivapurarta

33. Formerly when the ocean was churned, the
nectar was drunk off" by the gods. 274 All the strain and stress
was ours but the gods reaped the fruit of our endeavour.

34. The entire universe is but an object of sport of
Kala the supreme soul. Whomsoever and whensoever he
pleases to bestow the riches he atttains them.

35. The enmity of the gods and the Danavas is
perpetual and sparked off due to some reason or other. By
turns, subject to the whims of Kala they enjoy victory or
defeat.

36. Interference on your part in the dispute between
the two is futile. This does not behove you, the lord who are
equally in touch with both.

37. Your rivalry to us is excessively shameful since you
are lord unto the gods as well as to the Asuras. You are the
supreme soul.

38. In the event of your victory your fame is not
enhanced. In the event of your defeat you suffer a great
loss. Let this disadvantage be pondered over.

Sanatkumara said: —

39. On hearing these words, the three-eyed lord
laughed and spoke sweetly to the leading Danava what seemed
proper.

Lord Siva said: —

40. We are subservient to our devotees. We are
never independent. We carry out their tasks at their wish.
We are not the partisans of any one in particular.

41. Formerly the fight of Visnu with the excellent
Daityas Madhu and Kaitabha in the ocean of dissolution was
due to the prior request of Brahma.

42. For the sake of Prahlada, at the request of gods,
Hiranyakasipu was slain by him acting in the interest of his
devotees.

43. Formerly I fought with the Tripuras and reduced

274. It refers to the churning of the nectar from the ocean by the
joint endeavour of the gods and Asuras. The gods drank the nectar while
drink A^sam™ ed by Vi ^ n a ^ <l e P ri ved of their legitimate right to

kudrasarhhita

them to ashes, only at the request of the gods. It is well
known.

44. Formerly ParvatI, the Mother of all, the goddess of
all, fought with Sumbha and others and killed them only at
the request of the gods.

45. Even today, the gods have sought refuge in Brahma.
And he along with the gods and the lord Visnu has sought
refuge in me.

46. O Emissary, paying heed to the request of Visnu,
Brahma and others, I, though lord of all, have come here
in the battle of the gods.

47. Really you are the foremost of the comrades of
Krsna, the great soul. Those Daityas who had been for-
merly killed are not on a par with you.

48. What is there excessively shameful in my fight
with you, O king ? I the lord have been urged humbly to
carry out the task of the gods.

49. Go to Sankhacuda and tell him what I have
said. Let him do what is proper. I shall carry out the
task of the gods.

Sanaikumaxa said: — ■

50. On saying this, Siva the great god, stopped.
The emissary stood up and returned to Sankhaciida,

CHAPTER THIRTYSIX

(Mutual fight)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. The emissary returned and mentioned the words of
Siva, in detail and truthfully. He conveyed his decision as
it was.

2. On hearing that, the valorous Danava Safikhacuda
accepted lovingly the alternative of a fight.

3. Hurriedly he got into his vehicle along with his
ministers. He commanded his army against Siva.

Sivapurapi

4. Siva too hastened to urge his army and the gods.
The lord of all was ready himself with his sport.

5. The musical instruments formally announced the
beginning of war. There was a great tumult along with the
shouts of the heroes.

6. O sage, the mutual fight between the gods and the
Danavas ensued. Both the hosts of the gods and the Danavas
fought righteously.

7. Mahendra fought with Vrsaparvan. Bhaskara
fought with Vipracitti.

8. Visnu fought a great battle with Dambha, Kala
with the Asura Kala and the firegod fought with Gokarna.

9. Kubera fought with Kalakeya and Visvakarman
with Maya. Mrtyu fought with Bhayamkara and Yama with
Sariihara.

10. Varuna fought with Kalambika, the wind god
with Gaflcala. Mercury with Ghataprstha and Sanaiscara
with Raktaksa.

11. Jayanta fought with Ratnasara; the Vasus with the
groups of Varcas's; the Asvins with the two Diptimants and
Nalakubara with Dhumbra.

12. Dharma fought with Dhurandhara; Mahgala with
Ganakaksa; Vaisvana with Sobhakara and Manmatha with
Pipita.

13-14. The twelve sun gods fought with the Asuras—
Gokamukha, Ciirna, Khadga, Dhiimra, Samhala, the valorous
Visva and Pala^a. The other gods assisting Siva fought
righteously with the other Asuras.

15. The eleven Maharudras 275 fought with the eleven
terrible Asuras of great power and valour.

16. Mahamani fought with Ugracanda and others.
The god Moon fought with Rahu and Jiva fought with
Sukra.

17. Nandisvara and the rest fought with leading
Danavas in the great battle. This is not being explained
separately.

18. O sage, then Siva stayed at the foot of the

875. For eleven Rudras, see Note 127. P 138; 356 P 94 8.

Rudrasarhhita 9&§

Banyan tree along with Kali and his son. The hosts of the
two armies fought continuously against each other.

19. Decorated with gemset ornaments, Sankhcuda
sat on his gemset throne of great beauty attended upon by a
crore Danavas.

20. Then ensued a great war in which both gods and
Asuras were crushed. In that great war many divine and
miraculous weapons were hurled.

21-22. Maces, long and short swords, PaftiSas,
Bhusundis, Mudgaras (different kinds of iron clubs ), javelins,
spears, Parighas, Saktis, axes, arrows, Tomaras, Sataghnis, and
other weapons shone in the hands of the heroes.

23. Using these weapons, the heroes severed the heads of
each other. It was a jubilant occasion for the roaring heroes
of the armies.

24. Elephants, horses, chariots and foot soldiers along
with their drivers and riders were hit and split up.

25. The arms, thighs, hands, hips, ears and feet were
cut off. The banners, arrows, swords, coats of mail and
excellent ornaments were slit and split.

26. The earth shone with heads divested of coronets
but with earrings retained, strewn about and with thighs
resembling trunks of elephants broken off during the tussle.

27. Severed arms with the ornaments and weapons
still retained and other limbs too were lying scattered about
like honeycombs.

28. The soldiers running in the battle field saw several
headless bodies that jumped with many weapons lifted in
their hands.

29. With different kinds of miraculous and ordinary
weapons and missiles, the heroes of great strength and valour
fought one another shouting and leaping.

30. Some heroes killed the soldiers with their arrows
fitted with goden tips and roared like water-laden rumbling
clouds.

31. One hero fully encompassed another hero as well
as his chariot and charioteer, by discharging heaps of arrows
like the rainy season covering up the sun under the clouds.

32. Fighters of duel rushed against one another,
challenging, thrusting and diving in at the vulnerable points.

i MO Sivapurana

33. Everywhere groups of heroes were seen in that
terrible war roaring like lions with various weapons displayed
in their hands.

34. The heroes in their joy shouted and leapt blowing
on their conches of loud sound severally.

35. Thus for a long time the great combat between
the gods and Danavas continued, terrible and tumultuous
but delightful to the heroes.

36. Such was the divine sport of the great lord Siva,
the great soul. Everyone including the gods, Asuras and
human beings was deluded by it.

CHAPTER THIRTYSEVEN

[SankhacUda fights with the full contingent of his army)

Sanatkumdra said: —

1 . Then the gods were defeated by the Danavas. Their
bodies were wounded by weapons and missiles. Terrified,
they took to flight.

2. Returning to Siva, the lord of the universe, they
sought refuge in him. In agitated words they cried "O Lord
of all, save, O save us."

3. On seeing the defeat of the gods and others and
on hearing their cries of fear, Siva was greatly infuriated.

4. He glanced at the gods sympathetically and assured
them of his protection. With his brilliance he enhanced the
strength of his Ganas.

5. Commanded by Siva, the great hero Karttikeya,
son of Siva fought fearlessly with the hosts of Danavas in the
battle.

6. Shouting angrily and roaring like a hero, the lord,
the slayer of Taraka killed a hundred Aksauhinis 278 in the
battle.

7. Clipping off their heads, Kali with eyes like a
red lotus, drank off the blood and devoured the flesh
rapidly.

276. For Aksauhiiji see Note a6i P. 951.

Itudrasajfihitd

8. She fought in diverse ways terrifying both the gods
and the Danavas. She drank the blood of the Danavas all
round.

9. Seizing ten million elephants and an equal num-
ber of men with a single hand she playfully thrust them into
her mouth.

10. Many thousands of headless bodies danced in
the battle field. There was a great tumult that terrified the
cowards.

1 1 . Again Karttikeya became furiously angry and
showered volleys of arrows. He struck crores of leaders of the
Asuras within a trice.

12. The Danavas wounded in their bodies by the
numerous arrows of Karttikeya fled in fright. Those who
remained were killed.

13. Vrsaparvan, Vipracitti, Danda, and Vikampana
fought with Karttikeya by turns.

14. Mahamari also fought. She was never routed. All
of them afflicted by Karttikeya's spear were wounded.

15. O sage, Mahamari and Skanda won the battle.
Big wardrums were sounded in the heaven. Showers of
flowers fell down.

16-17. On seeing the wonderfully terrible fight of
Karttikeya that caused wastage in the rank and file of the
Danavas like natural disasters, as well as the harassment
and havoc wrought by Mahamari, Sankhacuda became
furious and himself got ready for the battle.

18-19. He got into his excellent aerial chariot that
contained different weapons and missiles, that was set in
diamond and that encouraged and emboldened the heroes.
Sankhacuda drew the string of the bow upto his ear and
discharged volleys of arrows from his seat in the middle
of the chariot. He was accompanied by many heroes.

20. His volley of arrows was terrifying. It could not
be withstood. A terrible darkness spread in the battlefield.

21. The gods Nandisvara and others fled. Only
Karttikeya stayed behind in the battle field.

22. The king of Danavas showered mountains, serpents,
pythons and trees so terrifyingly that it could not be with-
stood.

962

'ivapurdna

23. Oppressed by that shower Karttikeya, the son of
Siva, looked like the sun enveloped by thick sheets of frost.

24. He exhibited many types of illusions in the manner
indicated by Maya. O excellent sage, none of the gods or
Ganas understood it.

25. At the same time, the powerful Sankhacuda of
great illusion split his bow with a divine arrow.

26. He split his divine chariot and the horses pul-
ling it. With a divine missile he shattered the peacock too.

27. The Danava hurled his spear as refulgent as the
sun fatally on his chest whereat he fell unconscious by the
force of the blow.

28. Regaining consciousness, Karttikeya the destroyer
of heroic enemies, mounted his vehicle of sturdy build, set
with gems.

29. Remembering the feat of lord Siva accompanied
by Parvati, and taking up weapons and missiles, the six-
faced deity fought terrifically.

30. With his divine missiles, the son of Siva split the
serpents, mountains, trees and rocks, everything furiously.

31. He prevented a conflagration by the missile of
cloud. He split the chariot and the bow of Sankhacuda
playfully.

32. He split his armour, coronet and the vehicles.
He roared like a hero and shouted again and again.

33. He hurled his spear refulgent like the sun at the
chest of the lord of Danavas. At the blow he fell uncons-
cious.

34. That powerful Asura got rid of the affliction in
a Muhurta and regained consciousness. With a leonine
vigour he got up and roared.

35. He bit Karttikeya of great strength with his spear.
Not making that spear, a gift of Brahma, futile, Karttikeya
fell on the ground.

36. Taking him on her lap Kali brought him near
Siva. By his divine sport and perfect wisdom Siva enlivened
him.

37. Siva gave him infinite strength. As a result of
that the valorous Karttikeya stood up and felt inclined to
go to the battlefield.

tiudraSamhita

38. In the meantime the heroic Virabhadra of great
strength fought with the powerful Sankhacuda in the
battle.

39. Whatever arrows were discharged by the Danava
in the battle were split playfully by Virabhadra by means
of his own arrows.

40. The lord of Danavas discharged hundreds of
divine missiles. The valorous Virabhadra split all of them
by means of his arrows.

41. The valorous Sankhacuda became infuriated and
hit him on the grounds.

42. Regaining consciouness in a trice the leader of
the Ganas, Virabhadra caught hold of his bow again.

43. In the meantime Kali went to the battle ground
again at the request of Karttikeya to devour the Danavas
and to protect her own people.

44. Nandisvara and other heroes, the gods, Gandhar-
vas, Yaksas, Raksasas and serpents followed her.

45. Drum-bearers and wine- carriers 27 7 accompanied
them in hundreds. Heroic warriors on either side were
active again.

CHAPTER THIRTYEIGHT

(Kali fights)

Sanatkumara said: —

1 . Going to the battle ground 3 the goddess Kali roared
like a lion. On hearing that the Danavas fainted.

2. She laughed boisterously again and again boding ill
to the Asuras. She drank the distilled grapewine and danced
on the battle ground.

3. The manifestations of Durga viz — Ugradarhstra
(one with fierce fangs) Ugradanda (one with fierce baton)
and Kotavi (the naked ) danced on the battle ground and
drank wine.

377. The expression 'Maphuviihaka' indicates that the custom of
drinking wine among the fighting ranks in the battlefield prevailed even in
ancient days.

§64

Sivapurifya

4. There was great tumult on the side of the Ganas
and the gods. All the gods and the Ganas roared and
rejoiced.

5. On seeing Kali, Sankhacuda hastened to the battle
ground. The Danavas were frightened but the king Sankha-
cuda assured them of protection.

6. Kali hurled fire as fierce as the flame of dissolution
which the king put out sportively by means of Vaisnava
missiles.

7. Immediately the goddess hurled the Narayana mis-
sile at him. The missile developed its power on seeing the
Danava Sankhacuda.

8. On realising it as fierce as the flame of fire of dis-
solution, the Danava Saiikhacuda fell flat on the ground
and bowed again and again.

9. On seeing the Danava humbled the missile turned
away. Then the goddess hurled the Brahma missile with due
invocation through the mantra. 278

10. On seeing the missile blazing he bowed and fell on
the ground. The leader of the Danavas thus prevented the
Brahma missile from attacking him.

11. Then the infuriated leader of the Danavas drew
the bow violently and discharged divine missiles at the goddess
with due invocation through the mantras.

12. Opening the mouth very wide she swallowed the
missiles and roared with a boisterous laugh. The Danavas
were terrified.

13. He then hurled a Sakti, a hundred Yojanas long
at Kali. By means of divine missiles she broke it into a
hundred pieces.

14. He hurled the Vaisnava missile on Kali. She
blocked it with the Mahesvara missile.

15. Thus the mutual combat went on for a long time.
All the gods and Danavas stood as mere onlookers.

16. Then the infuriated goddess Kali, as fierce as the
god of death on the battleground, took up angrily the
PaSupata arrow sanctified by mantras.

278. The reference to the missiles of unfailing effect discharged with
the magic formulae indicates the heights that military science had attained
in that age.

Rudrasarhhita

965

17. In order to prevent it from being hurled, an un-
embodied celestial voice said — <£ 0 goddess, do not hurl this
missile angrily at Sankhacuda."

18. "O Gandika, death of this Danava will not take
place even through the never failing Pa^upata missile. Think
of some other means for slaying this warrior Sarikhacuda."

19. On hearing this, Bhadrakali did not hurl the mis-
sile. Sportively she devoured ten million Danavas as if in
hunger.

20. The terrible goddess rushed at Sahkhacuda to
devour him. The Danava prevented her by means of the
divine missile of Rudra.

21. Then the infuriated leader of the Danavas hurled a
sword, as fierce as the summer sun, with sharp and terrific
edge.

22. On seeing the blazing sword approaching, Kali
furiously opened her mouth and swallowed it even as
Sankhacuda stood watching.

23. The lord of Danavas hurled many divine missiles
but before they reached her she broke them into hundreds of
pieces.

24. Again the great goddess rushed at him in order to
devour him. But that glorious Danava, leader of all Siddhas
vanished from sight.

25. Thus unable to see him, Kali who rushed with
great velocity crushed his chariot and killed the charioteer
with her fist.

26. Then Sankhacuda, an expert in using deception
returned quickly and forcefully hurled the wheel blazing like
the flame of fire of dissolution, at Bhadrakali.

27. The goddess sportively caught hold "of the wheel
with her left hand and immediately swallowed it.

28. The goddess then hit him with her fist forcefully
and angrily. The king of Danavas whirled round and fainted
for a short while.

29. Immediately the Danava regained consciousness
and got up valorously. He did not fight her with his arms
by the thought that she was a woman like his mother.

30. The goddess seized the Danava, whirled him again
and again and tossed him up with great anger and velocity.

966

SivapurSna

31. The valorous Sankhacflda fell down after being
tossed up very high. He got up and bowed down to
Bhadrakali.

32. Highly delighted thereafter, he got into a beautiful
aerial chariot of exquisite workmanship set with gems and
did not lose the balance of his mind in the battlefield.

33. Hungrily Kali drank the blood of the Danavas.
In the meantime an unembodied celestial voice said:

34. O goddess, a hundred thousand haughty leading
Danavas have been left out in the battle still roaring. Devour
them quickly.

35. Do not think of slaying the king of Danavas. O
goddess, Sankhacuda cannot be killed by you. It is certain.

36-37. On hearing these words from the firmament,
Bhadrakali drank the blood and devoured the flesh of many
Danavas and went near Siva. She then narrated to him the
events of the war in the proper order.

CHAPTER TH1RTYNESE

{The annihilation of the army of Sankhacuda)
Vyasa said: —

1. O intelligent one, on hearing the narrative of Kali
what did Siva say? What did he do? Please narrate to
me. I am eager to know it.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. On hearing the words of Kali, lord Siva, the actor
of great divine sports, laughed. Siva consoled her.

3. On hearing the celestial voice, Siva, an expert in
the knowledge of principles, went himself to the battle along
with his Ganas.

4. He was seated on his great bull and surrounded by
Virabhadra and others, the Bhairavas and the K$etrapalas all
equal in valour to him.

5. Assuming a heroic form, lord Siva entered the

Rudrasarhhita 967

battle ground. There Siva shone well as the embodied form
of the annihilator.

6. On seeing Siva, Sankhaciida got down from the
aerial chariot, bowed with great devotion and fell flat on
the ground.

7. After bowing to him he immediately got into his
chariot. He speedily prepared for the fight and seized the
bow and the arrows.

8. The light between Siva and the Danava went on
for a hundred years and they showered arrows fiercely like
clouds pouring down incessantly.

9. The heroic Sankhacuda discharged terrible arrows
playfully. Siva split all of them by means of his arrows.

10. Maharudra, the odd-eyed Siva, the punisher of the
wicked and the goal of the good, angrily hit his limbs with
various weapons.

11. Taking up his sharp sword and the leather shield
the Danava rushed at the sacred bull of Siva and hit it on
its head.

12. When his bull was hit, Siva sportively cut off the
sword and the shining shield by means of his Ksurapra.

13. When the shield was split, the Asura hurled his
spear. Siva split it into two with his arrow as it came before
him.

14. The infuriated Danava, Sankhacuda hurled a dis-
cus. Immediately Siva smashed it into pieces with his fist.

15. He hurled his club with force at Siva. Rapidly
split by Siva, the club was reduced to ashes.

16. Then seizing an axe with his hand, the infuriated
king of Danavas, Sankhaciida rushed at Siva.

17. By the volley of his arrows Siva sportively struck
the Asura with axe in his hand.

18. The Danava quickly regained consciousness and
got into his excellent chariot. With divine weapons and
arrows he encompassed the whole sky and shone.

19. On seeing him coming on, Siva sounded his
Pamaru enthusiastically and twanged the bowstring, the noise
whereof was unbearable.

20. The lord filled all the quarters with the sound of
his horn. Siva himself roared then, frightening the Asuras.

968

Sivapurana

21. The lordly bull then bellowed putting the haughty
trumpeting elephants to shame. The deep roar filled the
sky, the earth and the eight quarters.

22. With his hands the fierce lord Siva clapped the
earth and the sky. All the previous shouts and roars were
surpassed by that sound.

23. The Ksetrapala produced a boisterous laughing
sound boding ill to the Asuras. In that great battle Bhairava
too roared.

24. There was a terrific tumult in the midst of that
battle. All round amongst the Ganas, the shouts of heroes
rose up.

25. The Danavas were frightened by those harsh and
terrible sounds. On hearing them the powerful king of
Danavas became very furious.

26. When Siva shouted "O wicked one, stay by. Stay
by", the gods and the Ganas rapidly shouted "victory,
Victory".

27. Then coming again the valorous son of Dambha
hurled at Rudra his spear terrible with shooting flames.

28. While it came on, blazing brilliantly like a great
conflagration in the battleground, it was immediately sup-
pressed by Ksetrapala by means of the meteor springing from
his mouth.

29. Again the great battle between Siva and the Danava
was resumed. The heaven and the earth including all moun-
tains, oceans and rivers shook and trembled.

30. Siva split up the arrows discharged by the son of
Dambha by means of hundred and thousands of his fierce
arrows. Similarly the arrows of Siva were split up by the
Danava.

31. Then the infuriated Siva hit him with his trident.
Unable to bear that blow he fell unconscious on the ground.

32. The Asura regained consciousness rapidly. He
seized his bow and hit Rudra and all others by means of
his arrows.

33. The valorous Sankhacuda assumed ten thousand
arms by means of magic and rapidly enveloped Siva by means
of ten thousand discuses.

34. Then Siva, the infuriated consort of Durga, the

Rudrasathhita

969

destroyer of all insurmountable distress split the discuses
rapidly by means of his excellent arrows.

35. Then the Danava seized his mace and accompanied
by a huge army rushed at Siva with the intention to kill
him.

36. The infuriated Siva, the destroyer of the pride of
the wicked split the mace of the Danava rushing headlong
by means of a sharp-edged sword.

37. When" the mace was split, the Danava became very
furious. The brilliant Danava took up a spear that blazed
unbearable to the enemies.

38. By means of his trident Siva hit the comely king
of Danavas rapidly in the chest even as he approached with
the spear in his hand.

39. From the chest of SankhacQda pierced by the tri-
dent, a valorous huge being came out and said "Stand by,
Stand by".

40. Laughing noisily Siva severed the terrible head of
the being that was coming out, by means of a sword. He
fell on the ground.

41. Then spreading her mouth wide open Kali furiously
devoured innumerable Asuras whose heads were crushed
by her fierce fangs.

42. The excited and infuriated Ksetrapala devoured
many other Daityas. Some were killed struck down by
Bhairava's missiles. Others were wounded.

43. VIrabhadra furiously destroyed many other heroes.
Nandisvara killed many other demons.

44. Thus the other Ganas, readily prepared and
furiously heroic, destroyed many Daityas, Asuras and sup-
pressors of the gods.

45. Thus a major portion of his army was destroyed
there. Many other soldiers, cowardly and terrified, fled.

970

Sivapurdna

CHAPTER FORTY

{Sankhacuda is slain)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. On seeing the important and major portion of his
army killed, including heroes as dear to him as his life, the
Danava became very furious.

2. He spoke to Siva. "I am here standing ready. Be
steady in the battle. What is it to me, if these are killed ?
Fight me standing face to face".

3. O sage, after saying this and resolving resolutely the
king of Danavas stood ready facing Siva.

4. The Danava hurled divine missiles at him and sho-
wered arrows like the cloud pouring rain.

5. He exhibited various kinds of deceptive measures
invisible and inscrutable to all the excellent gods and Ganas
and terrifying as well.

6. On seeing that, Siva sportively discharged thereat
the excessively divine MahesVara missiles that destroy all
illusions.

7. All the illusions, were quelled rapidly by its brilliance.
Though they were divine missiles they became divested of
their brilliance.

8. Then in the battle, the powerful lord Siva suddenly
seized his trident which could not be withstood even by bril-
liant persons, in order to slay him.

9. In order to prevent him then, an unembodied cele-
stial voice said — "O Siva, do not hurl the trident now.
Please listen to this request.

10. O Siva, by all means, you are competent to des-
troy the entire universe in a trice. What doubt then in regard
to a single Danava Sankhacuda ?

11. Still, the limit imposed by the Vedas should not
be disregarded by you, the lord. O great god, listen to that.
Make it truthful and fruitful.

12-13. O lord Siva, it has been mentioned by Brahma,
that, as long as he wears the armour of Visnu and as long as
his wife maintains the marital fidelity, Sankhacuda has neither
death nor old age. Please make those words truthful.'

Rudrasamhita

971

14. On hearing this celestial voice, Siva said "So be it".
Visnu came there at the wish of Siva. Siva, who is the goal
of the good, commanded him.

15. Then, in the guise of an old brahmin, Visnu, the
foremost of those who wield magic, approached SankhacQda
and told him.

The aged brahmin said: —

16-17. "O lord of Danavas, give me the alms for
which I have come to you. I shall not say openly what I
wish to have from you who are favourably disposed to the
distressed. I shall tell you when you have promised me first.

18. With face and eyes indicating pleasure the king
replied affirmatively. Then the deceptive Visnu in the form
of a brahmin said — "I am the suppliant for your armour."

19. On hearing that, the lord of Danavas, a well
wisher of the brahmins and of truthful word handed over the
divine armour, his vital breath, to the brahmin.

20. Visnu thus snatched off his armour by means of
deception. Then in the guise of Sankhaciida Visnu appro-
ached Tulasi.

21. Lord Visnu, an expert in wielding magic went
there and deposited his semen in her vaginal passage for the
protection of gods.

22. In the meantime the lord of Danavas approached
Siva without the armour. He took up his trident that
blazed to slay Sankhacuda.

23. That trident, named Vijaya, of Siva, the great
Atman, shone illuminating heaven and earth.

24. It was as refulgent as a crore midday suns and as
fierce as the shooting flame of fire at the time of dissolution.
It could neither be prevented nor withstood. It was never
ineffective in destroying enemies.

25. It had a fierce halo all round. It was the best of
all weapons and missiles. It was unbearable to gods and
Asuras. It was terrible to all.

26. In order to annihilate the whole cosmos sportively
all brilliance had converged into it.

27. It was a thousand Dhanus in length and a hundred

972

SivapurSna

Hastas in width. It was in the form of individual as well
as universal soul. It was eternal and uncreated.

28. That trident whirling round over the head of
Sankha'cuda for a while fell on the head of the Danava
at the behest of Siva and reduced him to ashes.

29. O brahmin, then it rapidly returned to Siva and
having finished its work went away by the aerial path with
the speed of the mind.

30. The Dundubhis were sounded in the heaven.
Gandharvas and Kinnaras sang. The sages and the gods
eulogised and the celestial damsels danced.

31. A continuous shower of flowers fell over Siva.
Visnu, Brahma, Indra, other gods and sages praised him.

32. Sarikhacuda the king of Danavas was released from
his curse by the favour of Siva. He regained his original
form.

33. All the conches in the world are formed of the
bones of Sahkhacuda. Except for Siva, the holy water from
the conch is sacred for every one.

34. O great sage, particularly to Visnu and Laksmi
the water from the conch is pleasant. To all persons
connected with Visnu it is so but not to Siva.

35. After slaying him thus, Siva went to Sivaloka
seated on his bull, joyously, accompanied by Parvatl,
Karttikeya and the Ganas,

36. Visnu went to Vaikuntha. Krsna became com-
placent. The gods went to their abodes with great delight.

37. The universe regained normalcy. The whole earth
was freed of obstacles. The sky was pure. The whole world
became auspicious.

38. Thus I have narrated to you the delightful story
of lord Siva that removes all misery, yields wealth and
fulfils cherished desires.

39. It is conducive to prosperity and longevity. It
prevents all obstacles. It yields worldly pleasure and sal-
vation. It confers the fruits of all cherished desires.

40-41. The intelligent man who hears or narrates
the story of the moon-crested lord, or reads or teaches it
shall undoubtedly derive wealth, grains, progeny, happiness,
all desires and particularly devotion to Siva.

Rudrasarhhita

42. This narrative is unequalled. It destroys all tor-
ments. It generates great knowledge. It increases devotion
to Siva.

43. The brahmin listener attains brahminical splendour;
the Ksatriya becomes a conqueror; the Vai£ya rich and the
Sudra the most excellent of men.

CHAPTER FORTYONE

(The curse of Tulasi)

Vyasa said: —

1. How did the lord Narayaria manage to deposit his
semen in the vaginal passage of Tulasi ? Please narrate the
same.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. Narayana is the person who carries on the task of
the gods. He is the goal of the good. It was in the guise
of Sahkhacuda that he indulged in sexual dalliance with his
wife.

3. Listen to the story of Visnu that causes delight,
the story of Visnu who acts at the behest of Siva and
Parvati, the mother of the worlds.

4-5. On hearing the aerial voice in the course of the
war and urged by lord Siva, Visnu carried off the excellent
armour of Sankhaciida assuming the guise of a brahmin,
rapidly, by having recourse to his Maya. He then assumed
the guise of Sankhaciida and went to Tulasi's palace.

6. Very near the entrance to Tulasi's palace he caused
the drum Dundubhi to be beaten and cries of victory to be
raised. He thus made the beautiful woman wake up.

7. On hearing it that chaste lady was highly delighted.
Eagerly she peeped through the window into the high way.

8. Knowing that her husband had returned she
observed all auspicious rites and offered monetary gifts to the
brahmins. She then beautified herself.

9. After decending from the chariot, Visnu who

974

Sivapufari.a

assumed the guise of Sankhacuda by deceptive art for the
sake of carrying out the task of the gods went to the apart-
ment of the queen.

10. On seeing her husband come before her she
became delighted. She washed his feet, bowed to him and
cried.

11. She made him sit on the gemset throne of great
beauty. She handed him the auspicious betel leaf rendered
fragrant with camphor.

12. ''It is today that my life has become fruitful since
I see my beloved lover who had gone to fight back in the
abode again".

13. Saying so glancing at him with ogling eyes and
smiling face she sweetly asked him about the events at the
battlefield.

Tulasi said: —

14-18. "O lord, how did you fare in the battle with
Siva who renders help to the gods? You had gone to fight
Siva who is the foremost of the gods, who is the annihilator
of innumerable universes, whose behests are strictly adhered
to and carried out by Visnu, Brahma and other gods
always, who is the progenitor of the three deities, who is the
soul of three attributes, who being devoid of attributes puts
on the form of attributes at the request and wish of the
devotees; who makes Visnu and Brahma work, who asrumed
the form of Siva the resident of Kailasa at the request of
Kubera, who is the lord of Ganas, the supreme Brahman,
the goal of the good; in a single moment according to whose
calculation a crore cosmic worlds undergo destruction; and
in whose minutest time many Visnus, Brahmas and others
pass away. It is with such a Siva that you had gone to
fight.

19. You have happily returned after defeating him,
the great lord. How did you win? Please mention that
to me."

20. On hearing these words of Tulasi, Visnu, the lord
of LaksmI who had assumed the guise of Sankhacuda,
laughed and spoke sweet words to her.

Rudrasdmhitd

975

Lord Vistiu said: —

21. "When I, fond of war, reached the battle ground
there was a great tumult. A great battle ensued.

22. There ensued the battle between the gods and the
Danavas both desiring victory. The daityas were defeated
by the gods who were proud of their strength.

23. Then I fought with the powerful gods. The gods
defeated by me sought refuge in Siva.

24. In order to help them Siva came to fight. Proud
of strength I fought with him for a long time.

25. My dear wife, we fought continuously for a year.
O lovely woman, all the Asuras were destroyed.

26. Brahma made us come to a peace. At the bidding
of Brahma the powers of authority were re-assigned to the
gods.

27. I have returned home. Siva has returned to
Sivaloka. Every one has resumed health and normalcy.
The torment has receded."

Sanatkumara said: —

28. After saying this the lord of the worlds lay down
on his bed. Then out of joy Visnu indulged in sexual
intercourse.

29. That lady began to suspect on observing a change
in her happiness, endearment and attraction and asked him
"who are you ?

Tulasi said: —

30. Who are you ? Tell me quickly. I have been
enjoyed by you deceptively. My modesty has been out-
raged. Hence I am going to curse you."

Sanatkumara said : —

31. On hearing the words of Tulasi, Visnu became
afraid of the curse. O Brahmin, sportively he re-assumed
his own real beautiful form.

32. On seeing the characteristic signs she guessed that
it was Visnu. Infuriated by the violation of her chastity
she said.

976

Tulasi said: —

33. "O Visnu, you are ruthless. Your mind is like
a rock. Since my chastity has been outraged my husband
is doomed.

34. O wicked one, being ruthless you are like a rock.
Hence due to my curse you will become a rock.

35. Those who call you ocean of mercy are erring.
There is no doubt. How was a devotee killed for another
man's sake, even without any offence ?"

Sanatkumara said: —

36. After saying this, the chaste beloved of Sankhaciida,
Tulasi lamented again and again in the excess of her grief.

37. On seeing her crying, Visnu remembered lord
fSankara, Paramesvara s by whom the universe is deluded.

38. Then Saiikara, favourably disposed to his devotees
appeared in front of them. He was bowed to and eulogised
humbly by Visnu.

39. On seeing Visnu distressed and the beloved lady
lamenting, Siva kind to the poor tactfully enlightened both
of them.

Siva said: —

40. ''O Tulasi, do not cry. Every one reaps the fruit
of his actions. In the world that is an ocean of actions and
rites there is no external entity that bestows happiness and
sorrow.

41. Listen to what is relevant to the context to get
rid of misery. Let Visnu of good intentions too, listen. I
shall mention what is beneficent to both and conducive to
happiness.

42. O gentle lady, penance had been performed by
you. The fruit thereof has been attained now. How can
it be otherwise ?

43. Cast off this body. Take up a divine body and
indulgence in dalliance with Visnu for ever. Be equal unto
Lakshml.

Rudrasathhita

977

44. The body that you caste off shall become a river
in Bharata. That will be a sacred river famous as Gandaki. 279

45. O great lady, as a boon granted by me, Tulasi
(holy basil) will be the most important constituent of the
materials of worship of the gods some time.

46. In heaven, earth and the nether worlds you will
become the Tulasi plant more excellent than flowers.

47. As the presiding deity of the plant you shall
assume a divine form and shall for ever sport in secret with
Visnu.

48. The presiding deity of the river in Bharata, the
consort of the briny sea and highly meritorious, shall be a
part of Visnu.

49. As a result of your curse, Hari shall assume the
form of a rock on the banks of the river Gandaki and
shall preside on the same in Bharata.

50. Grores of terrible sharp-toothed germs shall
penetrate and erode the rock and carve rings on it.

51. Those pieces shall be known as Salagrama rocks
and will be meritorious. Differentiated by the rings they
shall be known as Laksminarayana etc.

52. O Visnu, Salagrama stone shall signify your
contact with Tulasi. Similar in appearance they shall
increase merit.

53. O gentle lady, If anyone plucks the leaves of
Tulasi lying on Salagrama he will be separated from his wife
in the next birth.

54. If any one plucks Tulasi leaves without using
conch he will become a widower and a chronic patient for
seven births.

55. He who keeps Salagrama, Tulasi and &ankha in
one place shall become wise and a favourite of Visnu.

56. You have been the beloved of Sankhacuda for the

279. The river Gandaki issues from the Himalayan foothills, rises in
Bihar and joins the Ganges near Sonepur in the Muzaffarpur District. Cp.
MKP. Ch. 57.

form tfspFT Twstfocfiv jp^t mr 1

"s «

It is one of the most sacred rivers and is the source of Salagramaiilas.

978

Sivapurana

period of a Manvantara. Your separation from Sankha
cuda is really painful to you.

Sanatkumara said: —

57. After saying so, Siva narrated the greatness of
Salagrama stone and Tulasi, that is highly meritorious.

58. After delighting Visnu and Tulasi, Siva the
benefactor of the good vanished from there and went to his
abode.

59. On hearing the words of Siva, Tulasi was
delighted. She cast off that body and assumed a divine
form.

60. The lord of Laksmi went to Vaikuntha with her.
Immediately the river Gandaki took its origin from her
cast off body.

61. On its banks Visnu became a mountain conferring
merit on men. O sage, germs make different kinds of holes
therein.

62. The pieces that fall into the water are highly
meritorious. Those that remain on the dry land are
known as Pingalas. They are harmful.

63. Thus I have narrated everything in accordance
with your enquiry. The story of Siva is meritorious and
bestows all cherished desires on men.

64. This narrative has been made in detail inter-
mingled with the greatness of Visnu. It confers worldly
pleasures and salvation. What is it that you wish to hear
further ?

CHAPTER FORTYTWO

(Hiranyaksa is slain)

Narada said: —

1. I am not satiated by hearing the story of the
mooon-crested lord Siva including the annihilation of
Sankhacuda from you even as people are not satiated by
drinking nectar.

Rndrasathhitd

973

2. Please narrate another story of that great soul, lord
Siva who indulges in divine sports delightful to the devotees,
by resorting to magic practices.

Brahma said: —

3. On hearing the story of the annihilation of Sankha-
ciida Vyasa the son of SatyavatI 280 enquired of the excellent
sage, son of Brahma, the very same matter.

4. Sanatkumara narrated to Vyasa — the son of
SatyavatI — the auspicious and admirable story of lord Siva.

Sanatkumara said: —

5. O Vyasa, listen to the auspicious story of lord Siva
in relation to Andhaka how the latter attained the leader-
ship of Ganas from Siva, the great soul.

6. O great sage, it was after a great fight with the
gods and by propitiating lord Siva again and again with
Sattvika devotion that he attained the leadership.

7. It is wonderful indeed, the greatness of Siva is
wonderful. Siva protects those who seek refuge in him. He
is favourably disposed to his devotees. He indulges in
different kinds of sports.

8. On hearing about the greatness of the bull-
bannered lord, the sage, son of GandhavatI bowed to the
great sage, son of Brahma, with devotion and spoke these
meaningful words.

Vyasa said: —

9. O holy one, O lord of sages, who is this Andhaka ?
In which warrior family on the earth was this powerful
great Andhaka born? What was his parentage ? What is
his importance ?

10. O son of Brahma, please let me know all this
entirely along with its mystic secrets. You 281 have learnt this
well from Karttikeya of immeasurable enlightenment, the son
of lord Siva.

280. SatyavatI, mother of Vyasa, was also called Matsyagandha,
Minagandha. or GandhavatI. See V. 8 below

281. The reading ^ZTT ^ or ^TTT suits the context.

Swapurana

11. How did he obtain the leadership of the Ganas
from Siva of great splendour ? Really that Andhaka was
blessed since he became the lord of the Ganas.

Brahma said: —

12. On hearing the words that son of Brahma spoke
to Vyasa the father of Suka 282 who desired to hear about
the wonderful sports of lord Siva which give prosperity to
the hearer.

Sanatkumara said: —

13. Formerly Siva, the Emperor of the gods, kind to
his devotees came to Kasl 283 from Kailasa accompanied by
ParvatI, the daughter of the mountain and his Ganas
because he was desirous of sporting there.

14. He built his capital there. He appointed the
hero Bhairava as its protector. Then he performed many
sports, pleasing to the people, in the company of ParvatI
the daughter of the mountain.

15. Once he went to the mountain Mandara 281 to see
its excellent grandeur. He sported much in the company
of Siva and the various principal heroic Ganas.

16. While sporting on the eastern ridges of the
Mandara mountain, ParvatI sportively and playfully closed
the eyes of Siva of fierce exploit.

17. She closed the eyes with her lotus-like hands
which had the lustre of coral and golden lotus. When
Siva's eyes were closed, a great darkness spread immediately.

18. By this contact with lord Siva the rapturous
rutting juice exuded from her hands became hot by the fire
of the eye on his forehead and flowed out in copious
drops.

19. Conception took place and a terrible inhuman
being manifested itself. It was furious, ungrateful, blind 286 ,

282. Suka was the son of Vyasa. He is said to have narrated the
Bhagavatapurana to king Pariksit.

283. See Note 227 P. 266

284. See Note 36 P. 48

285. For the conflict between the blind Asura Andhaka and lord
Siva, Cp. Matsya P. Gh. 179. For the symbolical interpretation of this
episode see Matsyapurana — A Study, PP. 275-277.

Rudrasarhhita

981

deformed, and black in colour. It had matted locks of hair
and fine hair all over the body.

20. It sang, cried, laughed, danced, put out its tongue
like a serpent and thundered fiercely. When this curious
creature arose, Siva smilingly spoke to ParvatT.

Lord Siva said: —

21. "You did it yourself by closing my eyes. O my
beloved, why are you afraid of it now? On hearing these
words of Siva, Parvati smilingly took off her hands from
the eyes.

22. When light spread everywhere the blind being
appeared even more terrible. On seeing such a being,
Parvati asked her lord Siva.

Parvati said: —

23. O lord, what is this ugly hideous being that is
born in front of us. Please tell me the truth. Why was it
created ? By whom ? Whose child is it ?

Sanatkumara said; —

24. On hearing these words of his beloved, the spor-
tively inclined mother of the three worlds and the cause of
creation of the blind creatures, lord Siva himself indulging
in sports smilingly said: — •

Lord Siva said: —

25. O Parvati of mysterious activities, listen. When
my eyes were closed by you, this being of wonderfully
fierce might was born of my sweat. He shall be named
Andhaka.

26. You are the cause of . his creation though not in
the natural way. He shall be guarded by the Ganas lovingly
as well as by you along with your friends. His well being
rests with you. O noble lady, pondering over this intelli-
gently you shall do every thing.

Sanatkumara said: —

27. On hearing the words of her lord, Parvati was very
compassionate. Accompanied by her friends, she made

982

Sivapurana

arrangements for his safety in diverse ways and means as if
he were her own son.

28. At that time, the Asura Hiranyaksa desired to
obtain a son at the pressure of his wife who was envious at
the sight of many sons of her husband's elder brother. 288
Accordingly he set out in the season of late winter.

29. He resorted to forest and performed penance for
obtaining son. In order to see lord Siva he performed a
rigorous penance conquering the passions of anger etc. and
remaining insensible to externa] sensation as does a log of
wood.

30. The trident-bearing lord was pleased at his penance.
O great brahmin he went there in order to grant him the
boon. After reaching that spot, lord Siva, the bull-bannered
lord, spoke to the leading Daitya.

Lord Siva said: —

3 1 . "O lord of Daityas, do not curb your senses so
much. Why have you taken up this sacred rite ? Speak out
what you desire. I am Siva, the granter of desires. I shall
grant whatever you desire."

Sanatkumara said: —

32. On hearing the pleasing words of lord Siva, the
Daitya Hiranyaksa was delighted- He joined his palms in
reverence and humbly bowed his head. Eulogising and bow-
ing in various ways he spoke to lord Siva.

Hiranyaksa said: —

33. O moon-crested lord, I have no powerful son be-
fitting the race of Daityas. It is for this purpose that I have
resorted to penance. O lord of gods, give me a powerful
son.

34. My brother has five sons of infinite valour,
Prahlada being the eldest. I don't have any son. My family
is likely to be extinct. Who will inherit my kingdom after me?

286. It refers to Hiranyakasipu, the elder brother of Hiranyaksa.
The former had five sons while the latter had none. See V. 34 below.

Rudrasaitihitd

983

35. He alone merits to be the son who enjoys either
the inherited kingdom of his father or the kingdom of another
taken by force. That father alone can call himself possessed
of a son with such a son.

36. An abode in heaven is enjoined only for those
who have sons as mentioned by the learned and the virtuous.
All living beings are active in that respect. 287

37. A person whose family is extinct cannot have
higher regions. 288 It is for obtaining the son that people
worship the deities.

Sanatkumara said: —

38. On hearing these words of the king, the kind-
hearted Siva was satisfied and spoke thus — "O ruler of
Daityas, there may not be a son born of your semen. But
I shall grant you a son.

39. My son Andhaka has a prowess equal to yours.
He cannot be defeated by any. You choose him as your son.
Cast off your distress and accept him as your son."

40. After saying this, the delighted lord gave the son
to Hiranyaksa. 289 Siva, the great soul, the primordial lord of
Bhutas, the distroyer of Tripuras, the fierce god went away,
acgmpanied by Parvati.

41. After getting a son from Siva that Daitya circum-
ambulated Siva and worshipped him with many hymns.
Joyously the noble Asura returned to kingdom.

42. Having obtained a son from Siva, the demon of
great and fierce valour conquered all the gods and took the
earth to Patala.

43. Then the gods, sages and the Siddhas propitiated

287. The fourth Pada of the Sanskrit text is obscure. Hence the
present English translation of the relevant portion is conjectural.

288. The ancient Indian scriptures hold that a person cannot enter
into heaven without having a son. The present context shows that this
view prevailed even among the Asuras.

a8q. The custom of adopting sons prevailed in ancient India. The
adopted son enjoyed all the prerogatives of the natural son. He could
offer oblations to his adopted father when he expired and legally inherit
his property. It is evident from the present context that the practice was
in vogue even among the Asuras.

984

SivapurS^a

Visnu of infinite vigour in the form of a Boar that constituted
all sacrifices and all beings and was terrific in form.

44-46. He split the earth by beating and striking with
his snout and entered Patala. He powdered hundreds of
Daityas with his nose and the formidable curved fangs. He
smashed the armies of the Asuras by kicking with his legs daz-
zling like lightning. He had a wonderfully fierce refulgence.
With his Sudars'ana dazzling like a crore of suns he chopped
off the burning head of Hiranyaksa and reduced the wicked
Daityas to ashes. He was then delighted to crown his son
Andhaka as the king of Daityas.

47. He returned to his abode. He lifted up the earth
from the Patala by means of his fangs. He sustained the
Earth as before.

48. Eulogised by the gods, the delighted sages, and
Brahma, lord Visnu of huge body who had assumed the form
of a Boar finished the task and returned to his abode.

49. When Hiranyaksa the king of Asuras was killed
by Visnu assuming the form of a Boar, 280 the gods, sages
and other living beings became happy.

CHAPTER FORTYTHREE

(Hiranyakatipu is slain)

Vyasa said: —

1. O Santakumlra of great intellect, when that Asura
was killed what did his elder brother, the great Asura, do ?

2. O great sage, I am eager to hear this. O son of
Brahma, please narrate the same. Obeisance be to you.

Brahma said: —

3. On hearing these words of Vyasa, that great sage,
Sanatkumara spoke after remembering the lotus like feet of
Siva.

290. It refers to the Daitya Hiranyaksa who dragged the earth to
the depths of the ocean. Visnu incarnated himself as the Boar, slew the
Daitya and restored the earth to its original position.

Rudrasarhhitd

985

Sanatkumara said : —

4. When his brother was thus killed by Visnu in the
form of a Boar, O Vyasa, Hiranyakasipu was distressed with
grief and excited by anger.

5. Always fond of enmity with Visnu that he was, he
instigated heroic Asuras ; fond of havoc ; to work havoc among
the people.

6. Receiving the command of their lord with bowed
heads, the Asura fond of havoc worked havoc among the
gods and the people.

7. Thus when the universe was utterly disturbed by
the evil-minded Asuras, the gods abandoned heaven and
roamed on the Earth unobserved.

8. After performing the obsequies and water obla- 291
tions to his departed brother, the distressed Hiranyakasipu
consoled his wife and others.

9. Then the emperor of the Daityas desired to make
himself invincible, undying, unageing, unrivalled and sole
ruler.

10. He performed a severe penance in the ravine of
the Mandara mountain. Keeping his arms lifted up he fixed
his eyes on the sky. He stood on the Earth on his big
toes alone.

11. When he was perfoming penance, the gods accom-
panied by their forces defeated the Daityas and regained
their lost seats.

12. The smoking fire of penance springing from his
head, spreading all round scorched the worlds all round,
above and below.

13. The gods scorched by that, abandoned heaven and
went to Brahma's region. With their faces turned pale and
deformed by his penance they informed the creator of every
thing.

14. O Vyasa, thus informed by the gods, the self-born
Brahma went to the hermitage of the Daitya accompanied by
Bhrgu, Daksa and others.

291- A handful of water mixed with sesamum is offered to the
departed soul.

986

Sivapurana

15. The Asura who had already scorched the worlds
saw that the lotus-born deity had arrived. In order to grant
him the boon Dhatr the grandfather of the worlds said —
"Choose a boon." On hearing the sweet words of the
creator, the Asura of undismayed intellect spoke thus.

Hiranyakatipu said: —

16-17. "O creator, O lord of subjects, never may I have
the fear of death from weapons, missiles, thunderbolts, dry
trees, mountains, water, fire and onslaught of enemies —
gods, Daityas, sages, Siddhas or in fact from any living being
created by you. Why should I expatiate on it? Let there
be no death for me in heaven, on earth, in the day time,
at night, from above or below, O lord of subjects !"

Sanatkumara said: —

18. On hearing these words of the Asura, the merciful
lotus-born deity bowed to Visnu mentally and spoke —
"O lord of Daityas, I am delighted. Attain everything.

19. Stop your penance which has already run on to
ninetysix thousand years. You have realised your desires
entirely. Stand up. Rule over the kingdom of the
Danavas." On hearing these words, the Asura was pleased
and beaming in his face.

20. He was coronated by Brahma the great grand-
father of the worlds. He became inclined to destroy the
three worlds. The highly elated Asuras disturbed all
righteous activities and defeated all the gods in battle.

21. Then the terrified Indra and other gods harassed
by him got the permission of Brahma and went to the milk
ocean 292 where Visnu was lying.

22. Considering him the bestower of happiness, they
propitiated and eulogised Visnu with various hymns. When
he was pleased they told him their woeful tale.

23-24. On learning their misery in entirety, Visnu,
the delighted lord of Laksmi granted them boons. Getting
up from his couch, Visnu consoled the gods and the sages
by means of different words befitting himself. The lord as

29a. See Note 200 P. 224

Rudrasarhhita

987

refulgent as the fire said — cc O leading gods, I shall kill the
Daitya with force. Return to your own abodes fully assured,
all of you".

25. O great sage, on hearing the words of Visnu,
Indra and other leading gods, fully assured and satisfied,
went to their abodes thinking that the younger brother
Hiranyaksa was already killed.

26-27. The noble soul Visnu assumed the form partly
of lion and partly of man. His head was matted and full
of manes. Sharp fangs were his weapons. The claws were
keen and pointed. The snout was finely shaped. The
mouth was wide open. The body was terrible and refulgent
like a crore of suns, blazing and powerful like the fire at the
time of dissolution. He was identical with the universe.
More words need not be used to describe him. When the
sun was about to set, the lord went to the city of the
Asuras.

28. The Man-lion fought with the powerful Daityas.
He killed many of them. He held them, up and whirled.
Exhibiting wonderful prowess he smashed and crushed the
various Asuras.

29. On seeing that omniformed lion, the son of the
lord of Daityas, Prahlada, 293 said to the king, his father.

Prahlada said: —

"Is it the universe-formed lord who has come as the
majestic lion ?

30. The infinite lord in the form of Man-lion 284 has
come within your city. Desist from fight and seek refuge
in him. I see the terrible form of the lion.

31. ' Since there is none to fight him in all the three
worlds, it is better that you submit to him and continue to be
the ruler."

393. Though son of the Asura Hiranyakasipu, Prahlada \yas an
ardent devotee of Visnu. He had to suffer much at the hands oF his cruel
father for devotion to Visnu It was to avenge Prahlada (hat Visnu in-
carnated as the man-lion and killed Hiranjakasipu.

294. The story relates to Hiranyakasipu the younger brother of
Hiranyaksa. Hiranyakasipu was proud of his prowess and as blessed by
Siva, could not be killed in an ordinary way. He struck terror in the hearts
of the gods whom he had ousted from their vantage positions. -He was killed
by Visnu assuming the form of Man-lion, ' ■■

988

SivapurS^a

On hearing the words of his son, the wicked Asura said
"O son, why are you so afraid ?"

32. Thus addressing his son, the king of the Daityas
ordered the heroes among the Daityas — "O ye heroes, catch
hold of this lion of hideous brows and eyes."

33. At his behest the leading Daityas who desired to
catch the lion approached him but they were burnt in a trice
like the moths in the blazing fire attracted by its colour.

34. When the Daityas were burnt the king himself
fought with the lion with all kinds of weapons, missiles, spears
swords, nooses, goads, fire and the like.

35. O Vyasa, a day according to the calculation of
Brahma 295 passed by even as they fought with weapons in
their hands, roaring heroically and furiously at each other.

36. Then suddenly the Daitya assumed many arms hold-
ing weapons. He looked angrily at the fighting man-lion
and pounced upon him in a rush.

37. Then after a terrific battle fought by all sorts of
weapons and missiles they were exhausted. Then the great
Daitya himself seized up a spear and rushed at the man-
lion.

38. He was seized by the lord of beasts with hands as
powerful as mountains. He was placed on the knee, torn and
scratched in the chest by the claws piercing every vulnerable
joint in the body.

39. His heart lacerated by his claws was filled with
blood. He lay dead like a log of wood, his limbs being reduced
to powder.

40j When he was killed, the heroic Vi§nu was pleased.
He beckoned to Prahlada who bowed to him. He crowned
him king and then left for his abode that could not even be
imagined.

41. Then the gods were delighted. They bowed to
lord Visnu who had finished their task and who deserved
worship, O Brahmin. Thereafter Brahma and others returned
to their abodes.

42. Thus incidentally, I have narrated to you the

295- A Brahma day consists of one kalpa equal to one thousand
yugas or a period of four thousand, three hundred and twenty millions of
years of mortals, measuring the duration of the world.

kudrasamhita

story of Andhaka's birth from Rudra, the death of Hiranyaksa
at the hands of the Boar, the annihilation of his brother
Hiranyakas'ipu by the Man-lion and the coronation of
Prahlada.

43. O foremost of brahmins, now listen to the prowess
of Andhaka secured from the creator, his fight with Siva and
his acquisition afterwards of the leadership of the Ganas.

CHAPTER FORTYFOUR

(Andhaka's attainment of the leadership of Ganas)

Sanatkumara said: —

1 . Once Andhaka, the son of Hiranyaksa, was addressed
jokingly by his haughty cousins in the course of their sports
and games — "O blind fellow, what will you do with kingdom ?

2. Hiranyaksa was a fool who adopted you as son who
are bereft of eyesight, fond of quarrel, ugly and hideous,
after propitiating Siva by means of severe penances.

3. You cannot lay claim to the kingdom. Can a
person other than the son of a king ever aspire for the
kingdom ? You yourself can ponder over it. At the most
we can give you some share."

Sanatkumara said: —

4. On hearing their words Andhaka was distressed. He
thought over the matter intelligently. He then appeased his
cousins with various words. In the night he went to a deso-
late forest.

5. For ten thousand years he performed a severe pen-
ance, repeating mantras. He stood on one leg, observed
fast and lifted up his arms continuously. In short, he per-
formed a penance that no god or Asura could do.

6. Every day he cut a piece of flesh and consigned it
to the sacred blazing fire along with his blood repeating the
mantras all along. 286 This he continued for a year.

296. The Asuras performed austere penance to acquire power. Some-
time these were accompanied by the sacrifice of their flesh and blood in
the fire. Such practices had almost become a cult with the Asuras.

990

§ivapurai}&

7. In the end only the bones and the nerves were left.
The entire blood was exhausted. When there remained no
flesh to offer he desired to offer his whole body into the fire.

8. Then he was seen by the heaven-dwellers, all of
whom became frightened and bewildered. Then Brahma the
creator was immediately propitiated and eulogised by the
gods.

9. Brahma, stopped him and said — "O Danava, choose a
boon. Whatever is inaccessible in the universe, if you
desire it, you can have it."

10. On hearing the words of Brahma, the Daitya
piteously bowed to him and said — "May Prahlada and
others who have cruelly usurped my share in the kingdom
be my slaves.

11. I am now blind but let me be endowed with
divine vision. Let Indra and others pay me tax and tribute.
Let no death come to me from gods, Daityas, Gandharvas,
Yaksas, serpents or human beings.

12. Nor shall I meet with death from Narayana, the
enemy of leading Daityas, or from the omniscient and omni-
formed Siva".

On hearing these words of the demon, Brahma became
suspicious. He told him: —

Brahma said: —

13. "O leader of Daityas, whatever you ask shall take
place. But accept some cause of death because none who is
born or who will be born can escape the jaws of death.

14. Good men like you should rather avoid too long a

life".

On hearing these pleading words from Brahma, the
Daitya said again.

Andhaka said: —

15. "The most excellent of the ladies in the world for
all time whether of mature, middle or young age shall be
like a mother unto me.

16. She may be the rarest in the world, unappro-
achable to all men, bodily, mentally or verbally. O self-born

kudrasarhhitS

lord, should I covet her, let destruction befall me instantan-
eously depriving me of the position of the ruler".

17. On hearing these words, Brahma was surprised.
He remembered the lotus like feet of Siva. After receiving
the directive from him, he spoke to Andhaka.

Brahma said: —

18. "O leader of Daityas, whatever you desire shall
necessarily be realised. O king of Daityas, stand up. Realise
your ambition. But always light with heroic persons."

19. O great sage, after listening to these words of the
creator, and immediately bowing to him with devotion, the
son of Hiranyaksa who had but sinews and bones left spoke
to the lord.

20. "O lord, how can I enter the hosts of the enemy
with this body and fight ? Make me who am merely a
skeleton with sinews left endowed with flesh. Touch me
now with your holy hand."

Sanatkumara said: —

21. On hearing his words Brahma touched his body
with his hand and returned to his abode accompanied by the
great gods and worshipped by the sages and Siddhas.

22. The moment he was touched, he became full
bodied and strong. With eyes regaining sight he became
beautiful and stout. Thus he entered his city.

23. Considering him blessed with the boon, on his
arrival Prahlada and other leading Danavas surrendered the
entire kingdom to him and became his slaves.

24. Then Andhaka went to the heaven to conquer it
accompanied by his army and attendants. After defeating the
gods in battle he made Indra pay him tribute.

25. He conquered the Nagas, Suparnas, Raksasas,
Gandharvas, Yaksas, human beings, and became the lord of
mountains, trees and quadrupeds such as lions etc. by his
force.

26-27. He made the universe including the mobile
and immobile beings subservient to him. He acquired
thousands of women beautiful in appearance amiable and
faithful. He was accompanied by beautiful women of the

992

iivapurdnd

nether regions 297 and of Earth and heaven. 208 He indulged
with them in sexual dalliance on the beautiful banks of the
rivers, mountains and other places.

28. Sporting about in their midst joyously, he drank
divine and superhuman beverages left over by them and
became highly elated.

29. He enjoyed among other excellent things, divine
juices, fruits, fragrant flowers, fine conveyances very pleasant
to drive in and excellent mansions erected by Maya.

30. Thus indulging in sports he passed ten thousand
years beautified and rendered pleasant and mysteriously
wonderful by means of flowers, incenses, unguents and dietary
stuffs.

31. He did not know what would be auspicious and
beneficent to him in the other world. He was deluded,
blinded by pride and spoiled by his association with the
wicked.

32. The haughty fellow attacked leading scholars by
using fallacious arguments. Posing as a great soul he roamed
about with his Daitya friends destroying Vedic rites.

33. Proud of his affluence he slighted the Vedas, gods
and preceptors. He continued to indulge in sports, thereby re-
ducing his longevity in a few days.

34. Then many crores of years passed by. Once,
roaming about on the Earth with his army, he joyously went
to the Mandara mountain.

35. The haughty demon roamed there along with his
armies admiring its golden splendour. Having gone there
ostensibly for some sport and pastime he finally resolved to
stay there as destiny would have it.

36. He built a wonderful stable and auspicious city
on the ridges of the Mandara and forced people to settle there
gradually.

37. His three ministers Duryodhana, Vaidhasa and

297. See Note 161 P. 760.

298. Trivistapa or Tripistapa is the heaven of Indra aaid to be
situated on Mount Meru.

kudrasamhita

933

Hasti once saw a beautiful woman in an excellent spot on
the mountain.

38. They hastened to their lord joyously and lovingly
told him what they had seen there.

The ministers said: —

39. O lord of Daityas, in a mountain cavern we have
seen a certain sage. His eyes are closed in meditation. He is
handsome. The crescent moon adorns his head. He is wear-
ing an elephant hide round his hips.

40. Serpents twine round his body. A necklace of
skulls adorns his neck. His hair is matted. He holds a trident
in his hand. He has arrows and quiver. He is a great
archer. He displays a rosary.

41. He wields a sword. He holds a trident and a
staff. This fair-complexioned four-armed sage of matted hair
has smeared ashes over his body. His splendour is dazzling
and his dress and features are wonderful.

42. Not far from him, another person was seen. He
has simian features, very terrible in face and demeanour.
Equipped with weapons his hands are rough and brawny. He
is the guard on duty. There is a white bull, too old but
firm and steady.

43. A woman of very auspicious features, young and
beautiful was seen at the side of that sage. She is a gem
under the sun.

44. She is richly bedecked in corals, pearls, jewels gold
gems and is dressed neatly. Her necklaces are fine and
auspicious. He who has seen her can alone be called a man
of sight. Of what awaits the sight of anything else ?

45. O lord of Daityas, enjoyer of good jewels, that
divine lady, wife and the beloved of that meritorious sage,
is worthy of being seen and fetched here.

Sanatkumara said: —

46. On hearing their words, the Daitya became lustful.
He shook with excitement. Immediately he sent Duryodhana
and others to the sage.

47. O great sage, those excellent ministers well versed
in statesmanship approached the inscrutable sage of exalted

§94

•ivajmrdnd

rites. After bowing they conveyed to him the behest of the
Daitya.

The ministers said: —

48. "Andhaka the noble soul, son of Hiranyaksa, the
king of Daityas, the emperor of the three worlds, is camping
here now at the instance of Brahma and is sportively in-
clined.

49. O great sage, we are his ministers possessed of
great prowess. We have come to you at his behest. Listen
with attention to what he says.

50. Whose son are you ? O great sage, O intelligent
one, why are you stationed here in a carefree manner ?
Whose wife is this young beautiful lady ? O great sage, this
auspicious lady be given to the lord of Daityas.

51. Where this body of yours smeared with ashes,
bedecked with necklaces of skulls and hideous in appearance !
Why do you keep the quiver, the bow, the arrows, the sword,
the missile Bhusundi, the trident, the thunderbolt and the iron
club ?

52. Where this sacred Ganga, this crescent moon, the
matted hair, these pieces of bones from the corpse, the serpent
with poisonous breath and protruding mouth, and where the
close embrace of the lady of plump bosom !

53. Riding on a bull is despicable. No man on earth
has seen such a thing. Bowing and kneeling is a virtue in
some places. Why is this diet contrary to the way of the
world ?

54. Surrender your wife unto me peacefully. O foolish
fellow, why do you perform your penance in the company of
a lady ? It is improper and it does not behove you. I am
the lord of jewels in the three worlds (It may suit me).

55. Leave off your weapons, at my behest and carry
on your penance. If my order is transgressed you will have
to pay dearly with this very body".

56. Lord Siva following the worldly convention con-
sidered Andhaka a leader of wicked men. On hearing the
words of the emissaries he spoke smilingly.

kudrasarhhita 9§5

Siva said: —

57. If I am Siva what do you gain from me ? Why do
you utter false things. O lord of Daityas, listen to my
prowess. It is improper on your part to speak like this.

58. I do not remember any father of mine. Ignorant
and hideous that I am, I do not know my mother. In a
cavern I am performing this severe Paiupata 299 rite, the like
of which none has yet performed.

59. This is well known that I have no root. I cannot
get rid of all these things. This wife of mine is young and
beautiful. She bears everything patiently. She is the achieve-
ment of one that has gone everywhere.

60. O Raksasa, 300 whatever appeals to you at present
you can take".

After saying this, Siva who wore the garb of an ascetic
stopped, and stood quiet.

Sanatkumara said: —

61. On hearing his profound words, the Danavas
bowed to him and returned to their leader Andhaka who had
taken a bow to destroy the three worlds.

62. The ministers of unafflicted disposition bowed to
their haughty king and shouted cries of victory narrating every-
thing that Siva had smilingly told him. Then they com-
mented as follows.

The Ministers said: — 301

63. Where (on earth) is a Nisacara seen to be fickle
in heroism and courage ? Where is a Danava miserable and
powerless? Where does a ruthless, ungrateful and sinful
Danava become afraid of death?

20-.). Pasupata Or Mahapasupata was a terrible form of penance
that Siva undertook to regain his lost power. The performance required
a complete concentration of the mind for achieving the end, hence Parvati
was kept away form the scene of his penance, under the care of Viraka,
in the cave of the Mandara mountain (See also verses n-ia of the next
chapter) .

300. In giving the message Siva addresses Andhaka as Raksasa who
13 elsewhere called Danava, Daitya or Asura. A veiled contemptuousness
is intended to be conveyed by this word in the present context.

301. The Verses 63-67 though spoken by the ministers of Andhaka
contain the substance of Siva's message to the Asura Andhaka. The message
is full of irony and bespeaks the courage and self-confidence of the speaker.

§§6 &vapurd$a

64. O king, you are the emperor of all the Daityas.
You have been mockingly disparaged by the sage, a pitiable
penance-monger. Indeed he considers the three worlds in-
significant by his poor understanding. He has Vlraka as his
bodyguard whom he thinks to be very strong.

65. "Where am I ? Where are the terrible weapons ?
Where is the fight that terrifies even Death ? Where is this
Viraka of Simian facial features ? Where is this Nisacara
(night-stalker) senile and rickety in limbs ?

66. Where is this hideous man ? Where is this unfor-
tunate wretch ? Where is your strength ? Where are the
spreading creeping plants ? If you are mighty, attempt to
fight with him. Gome, do something.

67. Here we have weapons equal to thunderbolt , fierce
and capable of destroying people like you. Where is your
body as tender as lotus ? Pondering over this do as you
please."

68. O gentle lord of Danavas, these and similar words
were uttered by that sage. O king, he says all this because
he is proud and conceited. Is it not proper then to fight
with him ?

69. If you are going to be enlightened by these words
of no substance uttered by that sage and conveyed by us,
you will think and act accordingly.

Sanatkumara said: —

70. On hearing these words crooked and piercing yet
professing to be true and beneficial the dull-witted (Danava)
blazed furiously like fire sprinkled with clarified butter.

71. Proud of the boons granted to him he seized a
sword. He emulated the fierce gust of wind. He got ready
to go there smitten by the arrows of the cupid though fate was
adverse to him.

Rudrasarhhita

997

CHAPTER FORTYFIVE

( The beginning of the war and the conversation
with the messengers )

Sanatkumara said: —

1-3. Andhaka, the great Daitya king, deluded and
smitten by Kama's arrows drank wine and started from his
palace. He walked like an elephant in rut. His eyes
were roving. He was accompanied by many of his soldiers.
He was fierce and walked majestically like heroes. He saw
the cavern guarded by VIraka, standing at the entrance.
He exhibited the characteristic reactions of a moth approa-
ching a lamp and glancing at it eagerly and lovingly.
Already the burning fire of passion had scorched him and
therefore afflicting hits from VIraka had no effect on him.

4. He was attacked with stones, trees, thunderbolts,
water, fire and serpents. He was threatened with weapons
and missiles. He was afflicted by VIraka repeatedly but
ineffectively and asked. "Who are you? Why have you
come here?"

5. On hearing his words, Andhaka made no reply but
began to fight VIraka when surprisingly and unbelievably
he was defeated by VIraka in the battle.

6. When his sword was shattered to pieces he fled
from the battlefield divested of his conceited pride. His
throat was parched with hunger and thirst. He was
aggrieved.

7. Prahlada and other important Daityas then fought
with VIraka. Though they were terrible themselves they
were defeated by hundreds of weapons. Finally their minds
were held in check by the goad of shame.

8. Virocana, Bali, Bana, Sahasraba.hu, Bhaji, Kujam-
bha, Sambara, Vrtra and others of great valour, fought
there.

9. These were defeated by the Gana VIraka in the
course of the battle and split into two. At the end of the

302. It is incomprehensible how four generations of the Asuras
represented by f^q^f^^ ST^^R, f^Rt^TT and ^fa could be Contem-
poraneous, and light together in the battle against the Asuras.

998

Sivapurdrta

fight when many Danavas were killed, the Ganas of Siddhas
shouted "Victory."

10-11. When packs of Jackals began to dance in the
midst of the putrefying suets, fat and flesh, when beasts of
prey, ghosts and spirits began to roam in the terrible slough
of slushy blood, when the Daityas were smashed thus, the
trident-bearing lord consoled Parvati and said.

Siva said: —

"O beloved, formerly I had performed the great Vrata
called Mahapasupata.

12. The strength that I derived therefrom is exhausted
whence this fall of the immortals at the hands of the mor-
tals. O goddess, merit has declined due to the physical
contact with you.

13. I will create a wonderfully divine and terrible
forest and going there I shall perform still more severe
vrata whereby, O beautiful lady, you shall be free from fear
and sorrow."

Sanatkumara said: —

14. After saying this, the noble soul went to a holy
and terrible forest. He proclaimed loudly his intention and
performed penance highly illuminated.

15. Siva performed penance for a thousand years the
like of which could not be performed by the gods or Asuras.
Parvati stayed behind in Mandara mountain awaiting for
the return of the lord.

16. The chaste lady, endowed with good conduct
remained alone in that cavern. She was terrified and
distressed. Of course she was guarded by her son Viraka.

17. Then the Daitya whose mental steadiness had
been shattered by the arrows of Kama, became bold and
haughty due to the boons that had been granted to him.
He came to the cavern accompanied by his soldiers.

18. Forsaking food, drink and sleep, the infuriated
Daitya accompanied by his army fought with Viraka a very
wonderful battle for five hundred, five days and nights.

19-21. Various, weapons were used, by the Daityas —
Swords, javelins, slings, maces, sharp missiles, arrows with

Rudrasatiihita

999

crescent-shaped tips, arrows with prolonged iron pikes,
tortoise-shaped heads with blazing steel pointed hooks, sharp
spear, axes, iron clubs of diverse sorts, iron balls, rocks,
branches of trees and various divine missiles. Viraka was
attacked with these weapons and he fainted at the entrance
to the cavern. His body was pierced by the sharp weapons
hurled by the Daityas. The various weapons barred the
entrance to the cave.

22-23. Viraka was covered by the weapons and could
not be extricated. The goddess Parvati was afraid at the
sight. From within the cave she remembered Brahma and
Visnu.

24. Thus remembered by the goddess, Brahma, Visnu,
Indra and others assumed female forms and came there. 303

25. Sages of great dignity, Siddhas, Nagas and
Guhyakas became women and entered the cavern where
Parvati was staying.

26-27. Since it was not customary to enter the harem
of kings they assumed female form of wonderful features
and entered the cavern of Parvati for heroic activities.

28. Thundering sounds of clouds, as at the end of a
Kalpa, were produced by these thousands of women. Drums
were beaten and conches were blown.

29. Meanwhile Viraka of wonderfully fierce valour
regained his consciousness and stood up. He seized the
weapons of the warriors and hit the Daityas with them.

30. BrahmT stood opposed to the Daityas with the
staff in her hand. Gaurl became very furious. Narayanl
held conch, mace, sword, discus and bow in her hands.

31. BidaujasI set out holding the thunderbolt and the
handle of the ploughshare in her hand. Her complexion
was golden. The sky constituted her forelocks. In her fierce
velocity thousands of streams of current were let loose.

32. The goddess of thousand eyes, fought steadily in
war, undaunted and invincible with hundreds of Daityas.

303. The 5akti or Energy of a god is represented as his female
counterpart. Each energy is personified and functions individually. The
Puranas depict the gods and their Energies ■ fighting against the Asuras.
In fact the god and his Energy are identical. There is no characteristic
mark distinguishing the two.

1000

Sivapuran a

The goddess of fire was of none too gentle face and Yamya
was fierce with staff in her lifted hands.

33. Nairrti held, a fierce bow and a sharp sword in
her lifted hands. The female form of Varuna set out for
fight with noose in her hands.

34. The famale form of fierce storm took up hunger
for her physical body and held goad in her hand. The
female form of Kubera held a mace in her hand, blazing
like the fire at the end of a Kalpa.

35. The female form of the lord of Yaksas was sharp-
faced and hideous. The female form of Naga was terrible
with claws for her weapons. These and hundreds of other
goddesses set out for the battle ground.

36. On seeing this limitless vast army, the Daityas
were bewildered, pale in the face, excited and dismayed
frightened and dejected in the heart.

37. All these celestial damsels, the chief of whom was
Brahmasakti and the general Vlraka of terrible valour
pacified the mind of Parvati, the daughter of the lord of
mountains and assured her.

38. The important ones among the Daityas and others
who possessed strength derived from the boons granted
to them, thought, in their minds, of their death or retreat
and fought an unprecedented great battle with the ladies.

39. Making Vlraka of terrible valour and wonderful
intellect, her general, Parvati fought a wonderful battle in
the company of her friends and allies.

40. Thinking upon Visnu and looking towards the
southern direction the Daitya king, the heroic son of
Hiranyaksa, quickly made a fierce array of soldiers with
Gila at the head.

41. He made the frontal array terrific by the force
of regular service. By the time this was done, the infuriated
lord came there. Clad in hides he had the lustre of a
thousand fiery suns at the end of a Kalpa. i

42. On seeing lord Siva arrived after the lapse of a |
thousand years, the delighted women in the company of j
Viraka fought a very great battle.

43-44. Parvati bowed her head to Siva. She exhibi-
ted great valour to her lord. The delighted Parvati fought

j

Rudrasarhkitd 1001

a terrific battle. Siva embraced her and then entered the
cavern. The numerous women that had gathered were
dismissed. Parvati honoured VIraka by hundreds of gifts
and appointed him as the keeper of the gate.

45. Then the Asura chief, very clever in statesman-
ship, unable to see either Parvati or Siva sent his emissary
Vighasa immediately to Siva.

46. He was one whose limbs were shattered by the
weapons hurled by the gods and the Ganas. He entered
the cavern, bowed to Siva and spoke these words haughtily.

The messenger said: —

47. "I have been sent by him and so I have entered
this cavern. You have nothing to do with a woman.
Surrender this young and beautiful lady.

48. Usually you are an ascetic. Carry on that.
Thinking "Should a sage be offended ?" I have observed
forbearance within my tender mind. But O sage, you are
not a real ascetic but only my enemy.

49. You are extremely inimical to the Daityas. Show
your might in fighting with me. O wicked ascetic, I shall
send you to Yama's abode befitting the nether worlds.'*

Sanatkumara said: —

50. On hearing these words conveyed by the emissary,
the great three-eyed lord, the goal of the good, the destroyer
of the pride of the wicked, the wearer of skull-garlands
spoke furiously burning with grief.

Siva said: —

51. Manifestly your words are fierce. Hence hasten.
Fight with me if you have the might.

52. Of what avail are the wives and riches, be they ever
so beautiful, to a feeble man in the world ? Let the haughty
Daityas proud of their strength come. I have already
thought of this and acted accordingly.

53. How can a feeble man maintain even his physical
body? Let them do whatever they are ordained to do. I

Sivapurana

1002

shall also do whatever I have to do. There is no doubt
in this.

CHAPTER FORTYSIX

[Andhaka fights)

Sanatkumara said: —

1-2. The king of Daityas, skilled in interpreting what
he hinted at, seized his mace and hastened along with his
army to the entrance of the cavern. The terrible demon
Gila who could not be overwhelmed even by the foremost
among the gods, was placed ahead. After reaching the
cavern of the lord Siva the Daitya attacked with his
weapons as refulgent as thunderbolt. The others showered
weapons on Viraka and yet others on ParvatI, the daughter
of the mountain.

3-8. Some smashed the beautiful entrance, some des-
troyed the flowers, leaves, fruits and roots, the hearty water
sheds and the garden paths. A few stirred up joyously
the sunny peaks of the mountain. Then Siva collected his
army. The infuriated trident-bearing deity called them
together, the terrible living beings, the gods with their armies
including Visnu and others. Immediately after being called,
the gods came to Siva and stood near him with palms joined
in reverence. They came with chariots, elephants, horses, bulls,
cows, camels, mules, excellent birds, lions, bhutas, tigers,
deer, boars, Sarasa birds, fishes, crocodiles, other living beings,
scattered flies, serpents rending cremation grounds along
with ghosts and spirits, divine chariots, lakes, rivers and
mountains.

9. When the gods had taken adequate rest along with
their vehicles, the trident-bearing lord Siva sent them to the
battle ground with the steady and chief resolve on victory.

10. They fought with the army of the lord of Daityas
including Gila terribly and unrestrainedly as if the end of

Rudrasarhhitd

1003

Yugas had come but they were all devoured in the battle-
field angrily.

11. In a trice all of them including Brahma, Indra,
Visnu, the sun and the moon were swallowed by Vighasa.
When the armies were devoured, only Viraka was left
behind.

12. Leaving off the battle front Viraka entered the
cavern, bowed to Siva. The eloquent but distressed Viraka
then acquainted the destroyer of Kama with all the details.

13. O lord, your army has been devoured by the
Daitya Vighasa. Visnu, the preceptor and elder to the three
worlds and the destroyer of Daityas, has been devoured.
The moon and the sun, Brahma and Indra, the bes towers of
boons, have been devoured. All these, Yama, Varuna, Vayu
and Kubera have been devoured.

14. I, the humble one, alone am left behind. What
is it that I have to do now ? The lord of Daityas along with
the Daityas is invincible and hence rejoiced.

15. Visnu the lord who became invincible after tearing
off Hiranyakasipu the son of Kasyapa with his claws, had
the speed of wind and a terrifying demeanour. He opened
his mouth wide and began to blow of the three worlds
although the lord was subservient to the good.

16. When the matter stood thus, he was cursed by the
seven sages, 304 the virtual lords of the worlds — "You will be
crushed by the Daityas for a long time."

17-18. Then they were requested by Visnu through
loving words conducive to his benefit — "O great sages, when
will I get rid of this terrible curse?" Thereupon the infuri-
ated sages said — "At the time of war you will be hit with
fists and struck with terrible arrows. When swallowed by
Vighasa with wide open mouth, you shall stabilise yourself
in the Badari forest 306 in the holy residence of Siva, the cavern
and shall then be freed from sins." Thereafter in accordance
with the curse of the sages he roams everyday in the battle
ground, very hungry and swallows the Daityas and becomes
delighted.

19-20. By using the science of reviving the dead to

304.. See Note 164 P. 163.
305. See Note 242 P. 927.

1004

Sivapurana

life and chanting verses of hymns, Sukra revives the Daityas
killed by the gods, with full vigour and joy and cures them of
their hundreds of wounds. It would rather be better to give
upour lives at the battle than yield. You, the witness of every-
thing, have been chosen by us as the guide in the accomplish-
ment of our task.

Sanatkumara said: —

21. On hearing this from his excellent son, the lord of
Pramathas, the lord of the three worlds meditated for a long
time. He performed an incomparable miracle by chanting
Saman songs. 808 He laughed assuming a body as resplendent
as the sun and thereby dispelled the darkness.

22-24. When the light spread, the sage Viraka fought
again with the Daityas of deformed features. He who was
created by the excellent sage after swallowing powdered rock
and who had fought the battle and even conquered the Pura
Asura previously was immediately swallowed by the Daitya
together with Nandin who carried sharp arrows, spear and
swords, who was the chief of warriors and hundreds of excel-
lent sages, the great receptacle of lores, possessed of mental
and physical restraint and great courage. On seeing this, lord
Siva got on to his bull and faced the Daitya Vighasa. Repeat-
ing the divine Mantra that compels the disgorging of what
is swallowed, he stood there keeping the bow in readiness and
the arrows as powerful as thunderbolts.

25. Then the sage Viraka came out of the mouth of
Vighasa accompanied by Visnu and his army. The lotus
born Brahma, Indra — the enemy of Bala, the moon and the
sun were also disgorged. Thus disgorged the delighted army
fought a great battle again.

26. Thus the army of the Daityas was conquered. But
Sukra revived the Daityas slain in the battle' by the virtue of
his science. The preceptor of Danavas was then bound like
an animal and brought by the Ganas before lord Siva, the
destroyer of Tripuras, who swallowed him.

27-28. When Sukra was no more, the entire residence

306. A particular bind of Sacred verse intended to be sung is called
Samaveda.

kudrasarhhita

of the Danavas was shattered and destroyed. Everything was
suppressed by the gods. When the battle ground was strewn
with plenty of Bhutas who eagerly devoured mouthfuls of the
corpses of the Daityas, with headless trunks dancing holding
sharp arrows and spears in their hands, with intoxicated
Vetalas, with birds of firm claws and beaks and with wolves
their jaws filled with dead bodies, the founder of the family
Hiranyakas'ipu fought the battle for a long time and was de-
feated by Visnu, Siva and Indra.

29. When the exhausted army entered the nether
worlds, nooks and corners in hills and seas, Andhaka the fore-
most of the Daityas who in his height of fury had harassed
the gods and who could split the universe was divested of
his haughtiness by Visnu by terrible blows from his mace.

30. Since he had secured boons he did not leave the
battle ground although his body had been afflicted much by
the lord of the gods by terrible blows and hits. Then by
means of weapons and missiles, trees, mountains and waters
he defeated the gods. Then he challenged the lord of
Pramathas roaring loudly.

31. Fighting steadily by means of various weapons that
fell on the battle ground, they were exhausted. Then the
Asura inflicted pain on Parvati and Siva by means of
uprooted trees, serpents, thunderbolts and other weapons
and by indulging in deceptive practices.

32. In order to conquer Siva, the Daitya of as great
strength and intelligence as the destroyer of Tripuras, created
another juggler, a cheat. The Daitya whose madness had
helplessly been aggravated by hundreds of boons, could not
be killed by the gods, though his body had been shattered by
plenty of weapons and missiles.

33. Many Andhakas originating from the exudations
of his body, with hideous faces resembling his, pervaded the
surface of the earth. He was terribly pierced with the Tri-
dent by Siva, the enemy of the Tripuras, the lord of Bhutas
whose body blazed like fire at the end of a Kalpa.

34. When fresh army cropped up from the army slain
by Siva from the hot drops of blood and cut pieces of flesh
from the wounds of those killed, Visnu called away the

1006 Sivaputana

lord of Pramathas and intelligently assumed a fierce form of a
hideous woman employing his Yogic knowledge.

35. It had a very terrible and hard aspect characteri-
sed by several arms. Angrily the lord Visnu projected from
the wings of the army and stood ahead of the Ganas.

36. The goddess stood high in the battle field covering
up the entire ground by her pair of feet. She was eulogised
by the gods. Induced by the lord, the hungry female form
devoured the army, drank the hot blood of the Daityas and
made the battle ground marshy.

37. Then, only the chief of the Daityas was left. Still
he fought on with Siva, beating terribly with his palms,
knees, legs, nails, face, arms and head. Although his blood
had been sucked dry he remembered the traditional heroism
of his race. 307

38. Afterwards he was quietened by the lord of
Pramathas. His heart was pierced. He was staked to the
trident. He was held aloft in the sky like a long pole. Half
of his body, the lower one, was dried up by the rays of the
sun. The other half was drenched by clouds attended with
gusts of wind and heavy downpour. His body was subjected
to all sorts of torture,

39. Shattered and scattered like flakes of snow in the
rays of the sun, his limbs were torn asunder. Yet the fore-
most of the Daityas did not die. He eulogised Siva. The
delighted Siva, ocean of great mercy, joyously gave him the
position of the chieftain of his Ganas.

40. The lords of the worlds worshipped the lord of
Pramathas, at the end of war, with different hymns pleasing
and significant. Visnu, Brahma and others too eulogised him
with stooping shoulders. They were delighted and happy
and shouted cries of victory.

41. Siva spent the time rejoicingly in the mountain
cavern in their company. Honouring the great and excellent
mountains by the bestowal of gifts he dismissed a few of his
Arhsas (parts). Regaining the delighted daughter of the lord

3°7- . The Asuras followed the traditions of the warrior class which
they mhented from therr ancwtry. Thus they belonged to the Ksatra
division of the fourfold Aryan society.

ttudrasamkita

of mountains and the sinless son from the. terrible jaw of
Vighasa, he sported.

CHAPTER FORTYSEVEN

{Description of swallowing Sukra)

Vyasa said: —

1-2. This has been succinctly heard by me that in
the great terrible battle that caused horripilation, Sukra the
wise lord of the Daityas was swallowed by Siva, the enemy of
the Tripuras. Please narrate in detail what that great Yogin,
stationed in the stomach of the trident-bearing lord Siva
did.

3-4. How was it that the gastric fire of Siva, that ter-
rible fire of dissolution at the end of Kalpa did not burn
Sukra? How did the intelligent Sukra of bright refulgence,
come out of the stomach of Siva. How long and in what
manner did Sukra propitiate him ?

5. How did he obtain that great knowledge that sup-
presses death ? O dear one, what is that knowledge which
prevents death.

6. O sage, how did Andhaka get the position of the
chieftain of Ganas after being released from the trident of
Siva, the lord of the gods, indulging in divine sports.

7. O highly intelligent one, please be merciful. Men-
tion all these sweet sports entirely to me who listen with
attention.

Brahma said: —

8. On hearing these words of Vyasa of immeasurable
refulgence, Sanatkumara remembered the lotus- like feet of
Siva and said.

Sanatkumara said: — -

9. O Vyasa of great intellect, listen to the nectar-like
sport of Siva. You are the foremost of devotees of Siva and
you delight me.

1068

Swapurana

10-11, When the battle began between Siva and
Andhaka, the leaders who had formed their armies in the
unpiercing arrays of thunderbolt and the mountain, the
powerful Daityas became victorious at first but O sage, by the
power of Siva, the Pramathas became victorious afterwards.

12. On hearing that the Asura Andhaka was dejected.
He began to think "How can I be victorious ?"

13. Going away from the battle ground the heroic and
intelligent Andhaka went immediately to Sukra, unattended
by anyone else.

14. Getting down from his chariot } he bowed to his
preceptor. He was foremost among the politicians, pon-r
dered well and spoke with palms joined in reverence.

Andhaka said;~ —

15. O holy lord, after resorting to you we feel the
respect due to a preceptor towards you. We are never van-
quished. We are always victorious.

16. Due to our power we consider all the gods and
their followers including Siva and Visnu as insignificant as
the useless blades of grass.

17. Due to your blessings, the gods are afraid of us as
the elephants of the lions and the serpents of Garudas.

18. By smashing the entire host of the Pramathas,
by your grace, the Daityas and the Danavas have entered
the impenetrable thunderbolt Vyuha.

19. O Bhargava, by seeking refuge in you we roam
about unhesitatingly in the battle ground, like the cows graz-
ing in the field fearlessly.

20. But now the Asuras are harassed by the heroic
enemy. They are killed. Save, save us O, Brahmin, who
have sought refuge in you.

21. See Hunda and others, leading lieutenants of mine
who have been slain or who have fallen. They have been
attacked by Pramathas of terrible valour who can destroy
even death.

22. Formerly you did a great penance drinking the
smoke of husks or eating bits of grain 308 for a thousand years

3 o3. Kanadhuma is a kind of penance wherein the performer
sustains himself on the grains of corn or balls of iron-ash (lohaguEfca) -

ttudrasarhkitd

and secured 1 a great lore. Now the opportunity has arrived
to put it to a practical use.

23. O Bhargava, let all the Pramathas see the fruit of
your lore as you will kindly resuscitate the Asuras by that
lore.

Sanatkumdra said: —

24. On hearing the words of Andhaka, the perplexed
Bhargava began to reflect sadly.

25. "What shall I do ? What will benefit me ? Any
living being has various activities to be performed. It may
seem improper to me.

26. This Vidya has been derived from Siva and I am
going to use it on the heroes suppressed by the heroic
Pramathas, the followers of Siva.

27. It is my duty to protect those who seek refuge
in me." After thinking like this, the proposal of Andhaka
was accepted by Sukra.

28. Smiling slightly and thinking upon the lotus like
feet of Siva with a peaceful mind, Bhargava spoke to the
ruler of Danavas.

Sukra said: —

29. O dear, what has been mentioned by you is
entirely true. I have acquired this lore just for the welfare
of the Danavas.

30. Drinking the unbearable smoke of husks or eating
bits of grains for a thousand years, this lore has been acqui-
red from Siva. It is pleasing and beneficent to you my kins-
men.

31. With this lore, I shall revive the Daityas destroyed
in the battle by the Pramathas just like the cloud that re-
vives scorched plants.

32. Within a Muhurta you will see these Daityas as
if waking from sleep, healed from wounds, devoid of paiA
and very healthy.

Sanatkumdra said: —

33. After saying this to Andhaka, Sukra repeated the

ioiO

&ivapur5.ii<t

mantra once for each of the Daityas after thinking upon lord
Siva.

34. As soon as the mantra was repeated, the Daityas
and Danavas rose up simultaneously as if from sleep, with
the weapons lifted in their hands.

35. They rose up like the merit of men who give
water to the thirsty during the fight or like charity given to
brahmins at the time of distress in the spirit of faith.

36. On seeing Hunda and other Asuras revived to life,
the Asuras shouted loudly like clouds laden with water.

37. Roaring with awful sounds the fearless valorous
Asuras got ready to fight with Pramathas.

38. On seeing the Daityas and Danavas resuscitated to
life by Sukra , Nandin and other Pramathas, very haughty
and invincible were surprised.

39. After pondering intelligently they consulted one
another — "This activity shall be mentioned to Siva the lord of
gods".

40. When the sacrifice of war was going on like that,
kindling the surprise of the leading Pramathas, Nandin, the
son of Silada who was infuriated on seeing the work of
Bhargava approached lord Siva.

41-42. After saying "Be victorious" to Siva, the cause
of victory and golden-complexioned, Nandin said — "O lord,
the warlike activities of leading Ganas, which are difficult
even for the gods including Indra, to perform, have been
rendered futile by Bhargava. O lord, after repeating the
lore that revives the dead to life, one for each, all the dead
enemies have been playfully resuscitated.

43. The great Asuras, viz., Tuhunda, Hunda, Kumbha,
Jambha, Vipaka, Paka and others have returned from
Yama's abode. They are routing the Pramathas and are
roaming about.

44. O lord Siva, how can we be victorious if he were
to revive to life all the Daityas killed by us, again and
again? How can there be peace to the leading Ganas?

Sanatkumara said: —

45. On being thus addressed by the leading Pramatha,

kudtasarhhiti

ioii

Nandin, the lord of leading Framathas laughingly spoke to
Nandin, the chief of all lords of Ganas.

Siva said: —

46. O Nandin, go very quickly and seize that great
brahmin from the midst of the Daityas and bring him here
like a vulture bringing the bird quail.

Sanatkumara said: —

47. Thus commanded by the bull-bannered deity
Nandin bellowed like a bull and roared like a lion. Moving
fast through the army he reached the place where the bright
scion of the family of Bha.rga.vas was sitting.

48. Harassing and exciting the Daityas, Nandin snatched
off Sukra well guarded by all the Daityas who had in their
hands, nooses, swords trees, boulders and mountains, like
the mythological animal Sarabha snatching off an elephant,

49. The demons followed him roaring like lions to
get him released even as his cloth became loose, his orna-
ments fell off and his tuft of hair got untied as he was
caught tightly by the strong Nandin.

50. The leading Danavas showered on Nandisvara,
thunderbolts, spears, swords, axes, staffs, discus and other
missiles like clouds making a fierce downpour.

51. When the combat between the Asuras and gods
deepened, the chief of Ganas burnt hundreds of the weapons
of the enemy by the fire originating from his mouth and
reached Siva taking Bhargava with him.

52. "O lord, here is Bhargava", saying this he handed
him over to Siva immediately. The lord of gods caught
hold of Bhargava like a present offered by a devotee.

53. Without saying anything, the protector of the
BhCtas, thrust Bhargava into his mouth like a fruit. The
Asuras shouted loudly "Alas ! Alas."

16 ! l4 iivapuraqa
CHAPTER FORTYEIGHT

{Swallowing of Sukra)

Vyasa said: —

1. O Great sage, when Bhargava was swallowed by
Rudra what did the heroic Danavas headed by Andhaka,
do ? Please narrate.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. When Bhargava was swallowed by the lord of
ParvatI, the Daityas gave up hopes of victory, like lordly
elephants bereft of trunks or cows and bulls devoid of
horns.

3. They were as futile as headless trunks, as brahmins
who have forsaken the study of the Vedas, as the living beings
who have given up efforts and as the efforts of those who
are not favoured by good fortune.

4. They were lustreless and ineffectual like women
devoid of husbands, like the arrows devoid of feather, like
longevity devoid of meritorious actions and like learning in
the Vedas without the observance of sacred rites.

5. They were as powerless as innumerable activities
rendered fruitless without the support of wealth, or as
Ksatriyas devoid of heroism or as the assemblage of virtue
without truth.

6. When Bhargava was taken away by Nandin and
swallowed by Siva as he had swallowed poison, the Daityas
became grief-stricken and their pride and jubilation for battle
became curbed.

7. On seeing Tuhunda, Hunda and other Daityas,
devoid of enthusiasm, the courageous and valorous Andhaka
replied.

Andhaka said : —

8. By seizing Bhargava forcibly from our midst we
have been duped by Nandin, Our bodies have been
rendered lifeless.

9. With the taking away of Bhargava from us, our

Rvdrasamhita

1013'

courage, valour, achievement, fame, strength, splendour and
exploit have been simultaneously taken away.

10. Fie upon us by whom the sole and excellent
preceptor of the family worthy of the respect of the whole
race, the virtual protector of all of us and very efficient,
has not been saved at the time of adversity.

11. Hence do not waste time. Fight with the enemy,
the heroic Pramathas, after remembering the lotus-like feet
of the preceptor.

12. After remembering the beneficent lotus-like feet
of the preceptor I shall slay all the Pramathas along with
Nandin.

13. After killing these along with the gods including
Indra I shall obtain the release of Bhargava like the Yogin
who releases the soul from the bondage of action.

14. Bhargava too is a lordly Yogin. If he himself
comes out of Siva's body, the rest of us are saved.

Sanatkumara said: —

15. On hearing the words of Andhaka, the powerful
DSnavas, fearlessly roaring like the rumbling clouds, spoke
after resolving to do what was then to be thought of.

The Ddnavas said: —

16. If we are destined to live, the Pramathas cannot
overwhelm us. If it is otherwise what avails running from
the battle ground leaving our master behind.

1 7. Those who leave their masters and run away
professing to be honoured and desiring to be rich will surely
fall into hell Andhatamisra.

18. After sullying their fame with the darkness of
ignominy they will forfeit their pleasure both here and here-
after. They will be slain in the battle.

19. Of what avail are charitable gifts, austerities and
dips in holy waters if one takes bath in the holy tract of
the battlefield that removes the dirt of re-birth ?

Sanatkumara said: —

20. After saying these words and deciding in accordance

1014

Sivapuraria

with them, those Daityas and Danavas pounded the Prama-
thas in the battle. They sounded the war-drums.

21-22. By means of arrows, swords, thunderbolts,
hard rocks, Bhus"undis, Bhindipalas and other missiles,
spears, javelins, axes, skull-headed clubs, tridents, maces,
staffs and other weapons they bit one another and wrought
a great havoc.

23. There was a great noise everywhere, produced
by the drawn bows, flying arrows, the missiles, Bhu^undis,
Bhindipalas and leonine roars.

24. There was great tumult caused by the war drums,
trumpets, the trumpeting sounds of elephants and the
neighing sounds of the horses.

25. The vast space between heaven and earth was
filled with loud reports causing horripilations to the coura-
geous as well as the cowardly.

26-27. The thirsty armies on either side fainted with
their ears bursting by the loud sounds of elephants and
horses, with the flagstaff and banners broken and torn,
with their weapons exhausted, vomitting diverse kinds of
blood and bereft of horses, elephants and chariots.

28. O sage, the heroic Nandin and other Pramathas
slew all Asuras and won the victory.

29. On seeing his army being shattered here and there
Andhaka rushed at the Ganas driving in his chariot.

30. Like the mountains hit with the thunderbolt by
Indra, the Pramathas perished. Like the clouds devoid of
water they sank low.

31. Glancing at the in-coming or out-going Prama-
thas, far off or at close quarters, Andhaka hit them severally
with as many arrows as the hair on their bodies.

32-33. On seeing the army shattered and smashed by
the powerful Andhaka, Skanda, Vinayaka, Nandin, Soma-
nandin and other heroic and powerful Pramathas, and
Siva's personal Ganas became furious and fought in diverse
ways and very valorously.

34-35. By Vinayaka, Skanda, Nandin, Somanandin,
VIraka, Naigameya, the powerful Vais"akha and other
terrible Ganas, Andhaka was rendered blind as they
showered tridents, spears and arrows < incessantly*

Rudrasarhhita

1015

36-37. Then a great tumult arose in the midst of the
armies of Pramathas and Asuras, At that great noise,
Bhargava who was within the belly of Siva began to
wander seeking an outlet like the unaboded wind. In
Siva's body he observed seven worlds 309 including Patala.

38. He saw the diverse worlds of Brahma, Visnu,
Indra s Aditya and celestial damsels as well as the battle
between the Pramathas and Asuras.

39. Wandering round and round in the belly of Siva
for a hundred years he failed to see any outlet as a wicked
person fails to see a vulnerable point in a good person.

40-41 . Taking recourse to the Yoga of Siva he repea-
ted the following mantra and assumed the form of Siva's
semen. He thus emerged out of the belly of Siva through
his penis. Thereafter he bowed to Siva and was accepted as
a son by Parvati. He was made a lord of the Ganas.

42. On seeing Bhargava come out of the path of
the semen,, lord Siva, the storehouse of mercy, laughed and
said.

Lord Siva said: —

43. O son of Bhrgu, since you came out of my penis
in the form of the semen you will be called Sukra hence-
forth. I accept you as my son. You may go if you
please.

Sanatkumara said:. —

44. Thus advised by the lord, Sukra who had the
refulgence of the sun, bowed to Siva again and eulogised
him with palms joined in reverence.

Sukra said: —

45. You are of infinite feet, of infinite forms and of
infinite heads, the destroyer and the auspicious. You are of
infinite arms. How can I eulogise you of such form adequ-
ately? You are worthy of eulogy and of the bowing of our
heads.

309. The seven regions below the earth are called Sfcf^y, f^^y,
5r?y, a^RTW and qTcTTW I Cp. Uima S. ch. 15 V. 52-23.

1016

Sivapurfya

46. You are the eight-formed, 310 the infinite-formed, the
bestower of the desires of all gods and Asuras. You are the
wicked and the undesirable. How can I adequately eulogise
you of such a nature ?

Sanatkutnara said : —

47. After eulogising Siva thus and bowing to him
again, Sukra took leave of Siva and entered the army of the
Danavas as the moon does the cluster of clouds.

48. Thus I have narrated to you how Bhargava was
swallowed by Siva. Now listen to the mantra which was
repeated by Bhargava from within the belly of Siva.

CHAPTER FORTYNINE

[The acquisition of the position of a Gana by Andhaka)

Sanatkumara said: —

Om obeisance to you, the lord of the gods, the one
bowed to by the gods and Asuras, the great lord of the
beings past and future, the one of green and tawny-coloured
eyes, the strength, the intellect-formed, the one having the
tiger hide as his covering cloth, the one springing from the
flint sticks of sacred fire, the lord of the three worlds, IsVara,
Hara, the bay-eyed, the cause of the dissolution of the Yugas,
the fire, the lord of Ganas, the protector of the worlds, the
one of great arms, of great hands, the trident-bearing, of
great fangs, the Kala, Mahesvara, the imperishable, the Time-
formed, the blue-necked, the one of huge belly, the presiding
deity of Ganas, the soul of all, the purifier of all, the all-
pervading, the destroyer of the death, the one observing
sacred rites on the Pariyatra 811 mountain, the Brahmacarin,
the one knowable through Vedanta, the one reaching the
limits of austerities, PaSupati, the bodiless, the one armed
with trident, the bull-bannered, Hari, the one with matted

■' Bio. For the eight forms ef Siva, see Note No. 89 P. i32t
311. For Pariyatra or Paripatra, see Note 77 P. 629.

Rudrasarhhita

1017

hair, the tufted, the staff-bearing, the one of great fame, the
lord of Bhutas, the dweller in a mountain-cave, the one
beating time to Vina and Panava, the deathless, the comely,
the one like the early morning sun, the dweller in the
cremation ground, the lord consort of ParvatI, the
suppressor of enemies, the one who felled the eyes of
Bhaga, the one who broke the tooth of Pusan, the
one who cuts the cruel ones, the one armed with noose,
the hour of dissolution, the meteor-mouthed, the fire-
bannered, the sage, the blazing, the lord of subjects, the
leader, the father, the fourth one, the most excellent
one in the world, Vamadeva, the chivalrous in speech,
the Bhiksu of the left wing, the Bhiksu-formed, the
one with matted hair, the complicated, the one who
benumbed the hand of Indra, the one who benumbed the
Vasus, the sacrifice, the performer of sacrifice, Kala, the
intelligent, the bee, the moving one, the one originating
from the hedges of the trees, the one adored by the name
Vajasana by the people of all stages of life, the creator of
the universe, the sustainer of the universe, the eternal
Purusa, the stable one, the presiding deity of Dharma, the
one of three-fold paths, the conceiver of all living beings,
the three-eyed, the multi-formed, the one as refulgent as
ten thousand suns, the lord, the one sounding all musical
instruments, the one who releases from all hindrances, the
binding one, the supporter of all, the most excellent of all
virtuous ones, the Puspadanta, the part, the face, the
destroyer of all, the golden-eared, the deity at the door, the
terrible, the one of terrible exploit, Om, Obeisance, Obeisance.

Sanatkumara said: —

1. It is by repeating this mantra that Sukra came
out of the belly of Siva through the penis, like the powerful
semen.

2. He was accepted as son by ParvatI and made
unaging and undying by Siva, the lord of the universe, as
glorious as himself and second to him.

3. Sukra the sage, the storehouse of the Vedas, was
reborn of lord Siva when three thousand years elapsed on
the earth

1018

Sivapuraqa

4. He saw Andhaka the lord of Danavas, staked to
the trident, performing a penance courageously and medi-
tating on the supreme lord. He was completely dried up.

5-18. He was meditating on the hundred and eight
forms of the great Atman as follows: — the great god, of
misformed eyes, the moon-crested, the nectarlike, the
permanent, the stable, the blue-necked, the trident-bearing,
the bull-eyed, the great unknowable, the Purusa, the bestower
of all desires, the enemy of Kama, the destroyer of Kama,
assuming forms at his will, wearing matted hair, the hideous,
the GiriSa, the terrible, long-lipped, the red-robed, the
Yogin, the destroyer of Kala, the destroyer of Tripuras, the
bearer of skull, the performer of secret rites, the one of
secret formulas, the grave, the conceivable, the support of
Anima and other qualities, the bestower of riches to the
three worlds, the heroic, the destroyer of the heroes, the
terrible, the awful, the fleshy, the clever, the consumer of
great flesh, the mad, the awful, the great IJvara, the router
of the three worlds, the miserly, the hunter, the destroyer
of sacrifice, the one with Karttikeya, the highly elated,
clad in elephant's hide, covered with hide, the agitated,
wearing serpents as ornaments, the lender of support, the
spirit, the heroic, worshipped by Sakini, the Aghora (the
gentle), the destroyer of terrible Daityas, sounding awfully,
the vegetation-formed, smearing ashes on the body, with
matted hair, the pure, served by hundreds of Bherundas,
the lord of Bhutas, the ruler of Bhutas, the refuge of the
five elements, the sky-sojourning, the furious, the ruthless,
the fierce, the lord of Candl, the beloved of Candika, the
fearful, the lofty, the Garutman (the winged one), the
permanent, the partaker of spirituous liquor, the serpent-
formed, the extremely terrible, the death, deathless, death
of death, of great army, residing in the forest of the crema-
tion ground, the attached, the unattached, blind with
passion, adored by hundreds of passionless devotees, possessed
of the Sattva, Rajas, Tamas attributes, as also of the Dharma,
and Adharma, younger brother of Indra, the truth, the
untruth, the existent, the non-existent, the uncaused, the
lord with half-female form, the sun, as refulgent as crores
and hundreds of suns j the sacrifice, the lord of sacrifice,

Rudrasathhita

1019

Rudra, Isana, the bestower of boons and Siva. The
Danava Andhaka meditating on these hundred and eight
forms of the supreme soul became free from that great
fear.

19. He was drenched with the divine shower of nectar
by lord Siva who was perfectly satisfied. He was brought
from the top of the trident and released.

20. He spoke to the Asura Andhaka, the great
Daitya. The great lord forgave what the demon had done
before.

The great lord said: —

21. O lord of Daityas, I am pleased by your res-
traints and observances, your valour and courage. O you of
good rites, choose a boon.

22. Propitiated by you I grant the boons. Free
from sins you deserve a boon, O excellent Daitya.

23. For the merits you have acquired by retaining
your life for three thousand years you shall attain happiness.

Sanatkumara said: —

24. On hearing this, Andhaka joined his palms in
reverence. He knelt on the ground and spoke to the lord
consort of Parvati trembling with awe.

Andhaka said: —

25-26. O lord, what you had been told by me before
was done with the words choked by excess of pleasure.
You the greater than the greatest were addressed as an
ordinary poor person. What had been done by me in the
battlefield due to delusion was the most despicable in the
world. It was because I did not realise you then. O lord,
please do not keep that in mind.

27. O great lord, the wicked thing I committed
towards Parvati was due to my base lust. It may kindly
be forgiven. I am the most miserable and unhappy.

28. A miserable person shall be pitied. If he be in
a pitiable plight, he shall be all the more treated kindly. I
am miserable but always devoted to you.

29. I am miserable and devoted. I have sought

1020

Sivapurana

refuge in you. I shall be saved. I have joined my palms
in reverence.

30. May this goddess, the mother of the universe, be
pleased with me. Let her leave off her anger entirely and
glance at me delightedly.

31. O moon-crested lord, where is her anger and
where am I a pitiable Daitya? O crescent-crested lord,
O Siva, O supreme lord, I cannot bear it.

32. Where are you, the most liberal? Where am I
the wretched, rendered helpless by passion, fury and faults
by old age and death?

33. Let not your son Viraka, a powerful fighter and
warrior, be angry on seeing me the miserable creature.

34. Let me see ParvatI always as mother with
reverence due to elders, O lord who are as white as snow,
necklace, moon, conch and the Kunda flower.

35. Let me be always devoted to you both. Let me
be free from enmity towards the gods. Let me be calm in
heart and think of Yogic ways. Let me thus stay with your
Ganas.

36. Let me not remember again the adverse qualities
of the Danavas, thanks to your mercy, O lord. Please grant
me this excellent boon.

Sanatkumdra said: —

37. After saying this, the lord of the Daityas became
quiet meditating on the three-eyed lord and seeing ParvatI
as mother.

38. Then glanced at by Siva, with delighted eyes,
he remembered the entire story of his previous wonderful
birth.

39. When he remembered the incident his ambition
was fulfilled. Bowing to his mother and father— Siva and
ParvatI — he became contented.

40. He was kissed and sniffed on the head by ParvatI
and Siva. From the crescent-crested lord Siva he secured
everything he desired.

41. Thus I have narrated to you everything connected
with the early story of Andhaka and his acquisition of the

kudrasarhhita

I02i

lordship of Ganas by lord Siva's grace, yielding the greatest
happiness.

42. The mantra of Mrtyunjaya that bestows im-
mortality has also been mentioned to you. It yields the
fruits of cherished desire. It should be strenuously read and
recited.

CHAPTER FIFTY

( Sukra learns Mrtasanjivani lore )

Sanatkumara said; —

1 . O Vyasa, listen how the lore of warding off death
was gained by the sage Bhargava from Siva who is called
the conqueror of Death.

2. At first this scion of the family of Bhrgu went to
the city of Varanasi 312 and performed penance for a long time
meditating on lord Visves'vara.

3. There itself he fixed a phallic emblem of Siva, the
great Atman. O Vedavyasa, in front of it, he dug a very
beautiful well.

4. Assiduously he performed the ablutions of the lord
of the gods for a hundred thousand times with Pancamrta 313
using a Drona measure each time. Fragrant unguents he
also used with them for the ablutions.

5. He offered sandal-paste and Yaksakardama 814 to the
lord of the gods, thousands of times. Gladly he smeared
fragrant unguents on the phallic image.

6-11. With care and devotion he offered flowers and
leaves in the course of his worship — Raja Gampaka,
Dhattura, Karavzra, Kusesaya, Malati Karnikara, Kadamba,
Bakula, Utpala, Mallika, Satapatri, Sindhuvara, Kimsuka,
Bandhuka, Punnaga, Nagakesara, Kesara, Navamalll,
Gibilaka, Kunda, Mucukunda, Mandara 5 Bilva leaves,

312. VSrajjasI — ancient Kasl. It came to be so called because it was
situated between the two rivers, Barna. and Asi.

313. See Note 95 P. 136.

314. It is an ointment or perfumed paste consisting of camphor,
agallochum, musk, sandal wood atid kakk'ola.

1022

Swapurdntl

Drona, Maruvaka, Vfka, Granthiparna, Damanaka, the
beautiful mango sprouts, Tulasi leaves, Devagandhari leaves,
Brhatpatrl leaves, Darbha grass, Nandyavartas, Agastyas,
Sala, Devadaru, Kaflcanara, Kuravaka, Durva grass, Kurun-
taka, and lotus petals of various auspicious kinds.

12. He eulogised Siva with various hymns and repea-
ted a thousand names. He sang songs of Siva's glory. He
danced and made offerings.

13. Sukra worshipped lord Siva in various ways for
five thousand years.

14. When he did not see the lord, the least inclined
to grant the boon, he took up still more unbearable and
terrible observances and restraints.

15-16. He washed off the dirt of fickleness from his
mind by the waters of pure conceptions many times as well
as from the sense-organs. After purifying the gem of the
mind, he offered the same to the trident-bearing lord. He
drank the smoke of powdered husks or bits of grains or balls
of iron-ash 315 for a thousand years.

17. On seeing him performing the terrible penance
thus by keeping the mind steady, lord Siva was delighted.

18. Coming out of the phallic image, lord Siva the
consort of Daksayam appeared before him with a brighter
refulgence than that of a thousand suns and said.

Lord Siva said: —

19. "O great sage, O son of Bhrgu, O fortunate
saint, by your perpetual penance I have been delighted.

20. O Bhargava, choose anything that you wish as your
boon. I shall lovingly bestow on you all your desires.
There is nothing that cannot be granted to you."

Sanatkumara said'. —

21 On hearing these pleasing words of Siva, Bhargava
was very much delighted. He was immersed in the ocean
of happiness.

22. The brahmin bowed to Siva with his eyes
315. See Note 308 P. 1008.

Iludrasathhita

blooming like a lotus with pleasure and his body excited
with horripilation by the surging waves of joy.

23. With the palms raised and joined on the head
in reverence and repeating "Victory, Victory", the delighted
sage eulogised the eight-formed 316 Siva with the blooming
eyes.

Bhargava said: —

24. O lord of the universe, Obeisance to you. O
jewel of heaven, you shine brilliantly in the firmament for
the benefit of the three worlds. With these lustrous rays
you subdue all darkness and the desires of the Asuras.

25. O eye of the world, you shine in heaven, on the
earth and in the sky, brilliantly lit by your excessive reful-
gence. You have driven away darkness. You are filled by
the nectar of the moon. Obeisance to you.

26. You are the wind, the goal in the holy path.
You are worthy of being adored. O enlivener of the worlds,
who can live here without you ? O all-pervasive, benumber
of storms, nourisher of creatures, delighter of the race of
serpents, obeisance to you.

27. O sole purifier of the universe, O protector of
those who bow to you, O wielder of the power of fire, you
are the fire, bestowing calmness at every step. Obeisance
to you.

28. O water-formed one, O great Isa, the whole
universe is holy. Really you make it variegated. O lord
of the universe, this universe is free from dirt by diving into
the water. Hence I bow to you.

29. O sky-formed one, because you give space
within and without, that this universe evolves and expands;
O merciful one, it always breathes in you and naturally
merges in you Hence I bow to you.

30. O earth-formed one, O lord, you support and
hold the universe. O lord of the universe, who else can be
the enemy of darkness? You of this nature destroy my

316. Bhargava eulogises Siva in his eight forms represented by ether,
air, fire, water, earth, the sun, the moon and the Atman. The concept is
popular with most of the potts in Sanskrit literature. Cp. Kali. Sak.
Verse 1.

1024

Sivapurana

darkness. O you having serpents for ornaments, you are
beyond all that deserve eulogy. Hence I bow to you. You
ar6 greater than the greatest.

31. O soul-formed one, O Siva, this universe of the
mobiles and immobiles is pervaded by these series of your
forms. O eight-formed lord, having the form of the
immanent soul, I always bow to you.

32. O kinsman of those devoid of kinsmen, O you of
the form of universe, equipped with the eight forms, you
make all expand. O lord, you make all objects available to
those who bow to you. Hence I bow to you.

Sanatkumara said: —

33. Eulogising the eight formed Siva by reciting the
eight verses, Bhargava touched the ground with his head and
bowed again and again.

34-35. When he was eulogised by Bhargava of great
brilliance, the great god stood up and lifted the brahmin
from the ground where he was bowing to him. Holding
him up, the lord spoke in a rumbling voice like that of the
cloud but gentle in effect, illuminating the quarters with
the moonlight-brilliance of his teeth.

The great lord said: —

36-38. O excellent brahmin, O Bhargava, O dear,
you are my faithful devotee. By your severe penance in
this life, by the merit of installing my phallic image, and the
adoration of it, by the offerings made with concentrated
devotion, your unshaken purity and holy conduct in this
Avimuktaksetra, 31 ' I see you as my other two sons. There
is nothing which cannot be given to you.

39. With this body you shall enter the cavity of my
belly and you will be born as my son through my excellent
organ — the penis.

40. I am giving you now the boon inaccessible to

even my attendants and which I have kept away even

from Visnu and Brahma usually.
" \

317. The Avimukta-Ksetra is the same as VaraijasI region It derives
its name from the insiallation of the phallic emblem of Siva called
Avimuktesvara.

kudrasaiiihiti

41-42. O pure one, O pure sage, I am giving unto
you the lore in the form of Mantra, which is called
Mrtasanjivam. It is pure and it has been formulated by
me alone through the power of the penance. You have the
capacity to receive that lore.

43. Whoever he may be if you were to repeat this
mantra in respect of anyone he will truly return to life.
This lore is the most excellent one.

44. Your brilliant stellar lustre will excel the sun
and fire. You will become the foremost of the planets.

45. If any man or woman were to proceed on £t
journey in your direction, their work will perish by your
glance.

46. O you of good rites, all virtuous actions like
marriage etc. when performed while you rise shall be
beneficent to those people.

47. All the Nanda tithis are auspicious by your con-
junction. Your devotees will be prolific in progeny and
profuse in the production of semen.

48. The phallic image installed by you is called
Sukresa. Those who worship it shall achieve success.

49-50. Those who perform Vratas for every night
throughout the year and offer water oblations in the Sukra
well on your day and worship SukreSa shall derive these
fruits. They will have semen unfailing and profuse in
secretion. They will have sons.

51. They will have the good fortune of manliness.
There is no doubt. Those people will have good learning
and enjoy happiness.

52. After granting him boons, the lord vanished in
the phallic image. The delighted Bhargava too returned to
his abode.

53. Thus O Vyasa, I have narrated how the Mrtyufi-
jaya lore was acquired by Sukra through power of penance.
What else do you wish to hear?

Sivapurtina

CHAPTER FIFTYONE

(The story of Usa)

Vyasa said: —

1-2. O omniscient Sanatkumara, a wonderfully excellent
story has been narrated with love and blessings by you. It
is full of Siva's benediction. I wish to know more of the
story of the moon-crested lord wherein he gave the Asura
Bana the position of the chieftain of his Ganas.

Sanatkumara said: —

3. O Vyasa, listen with reverence to the story of Siva,
the great Atman wherein it is explained how he bestowed
the chieftainship of his Ganas on the Asura Bana.

4. Here is the good story of Siva, the great lord. Here
too is the story of Siva's fight with Krsna when the former
blessed Bana.

5. Listen from me the most befitting and the highly
meritorious legend of the sports of Siva. It is pleasing to
the mind and to the ears.

6. Marici, the sage of great intellect, was the mentally
created eldest son of Brahma. He was a Prajapati too.

7. His son Kasyapa was a noble soul. He was the
most excellent of all sages. He made the creation flourish
well. He was devoted to his father and to Brahma.

8. O Vyasa, thirteen daughters of Daksa were his
wives. They were of good conduct and very faithful to their
husband, the sage Kasyapa.

9. The eldest of the wives was Diti. The Daityas were
her sons. The gods and others including the mobile and
immobile beings were born to others.

10. The eldest Diti had the heroic sons HiranyakaSipu
the elder and Hiran.ya.ksa the younger.

1 1 . HiranyakaSipu had four sons. They were in order
Hrada, Anuhrada, Samhrada and Prahlada.

12. Prahlada was a great devotee of Vi?nu. He had
full control of his sense-organs. The Daityas were unable
to destroy him.

13. His son Virocana was the most excellent of

kudrasariihita

donors. He gave even his head to Indra who requested for
the same in the guise of a brahmin.

14. His son was Bali who was a favourite of Siva
and a liberal donor. The earth was given by him to
Visnu who assumed the form of a dwarf.

15. His son Bana became a devotee of Siva. He was
highly respected and intelligent. He was truthful and a
liberal donor making thousands of charitable gifts.

16. Staying in the Sonita town 318 he ruled over the
three worlds after defeating several rulers forcefully.

17. As a result of the grace of Siva, the gods became
the virtual servants of Bana, the devotee of Siva.

18-19. They were distressed by his enmity although
he practised high virtues. In accompaniment of the instru-
mental music played by his thousand arms, by means of
the Tandava dance he propitiated Siva.

20. Siva favourably disposed to his devotees was
highly delighted and satisfied by his dance and he glanced
at him with sympathetic eyes.

21. The lord of the worlds, worthy of being sought
refuge in, the bestower of the desires of the devotees asked
the great demon, the son of Bali, to choose a boon he
liked.

Siva said: —

22. The great Daitya Bana, son of Bali, the fore-
most among the devotees and highly intelligent, bowed to
lord Siva with devotion and eulogised him.

The Asura Bana said: —

23-24. O great god, lord of the gods, favourably dis-
posed to those who seek refuge in you, O great Siva, if you
are pleased with me, be my guardian for ever. Be present
with me as the lord of my city along with your sons and
Ganas. O lord, be delightful to me in every respect.

;ji8. Sonitapura was the capital of Banasura, the ruler of Tripura.
Dey identifies it with the town of that name on the bank of the river
Kedara Ganga (See Note 23 P. 532) . Avasthi identifies it with Banagarh
in the Dinajapura district of East Bengal. The above identifications are
merely tentative, for Bana is aaid to have ruled in Tripuri (Mod. Tewar)
on the Narmada river in Madhya Pradesa, far away from the locus sug-
gested by the scholars.

Sanatkumdra said : — ■

25-26. Bana son of Bali, deluded by Siva's decep-
tion, did not request anything else from lord Siva who would
have bestowed even salvation if asked though he is hard to
please. Siva, who is favourably disposed to his devotees,
granted boons to him and stayed there lovingly along with
his sons and his Ganas.

27. Once Siva performed divine sports in Sonita, the
beautiful city of Bana, in the company of the gods and
Asuras, on the banks of a river.

28. The Gandharvas and the celestial damsels danced
and laughed. The sages performed Japas, bowed to, wor-
shipped and eulogised him.

29. The Pramathas jumped and shouted; the sages
performed sacrifices. The groups of Siddhas came and saw
the divine sport of Siva.

30. Mlecchas, 310 adversaries and evil-intentioned
wranglers perished. The mothers 320 (Brahm! etc.) sat facing
him. The terrifying imps perished.

31. The worldly faults of those who had the good
conception of devotion to Siva were forgotten.

32. The sages and the Siddhas leapt and bounced on
seeing the activities of the women. The seasons displayed
their power and nourished it.

33. Gentle winds blew wafting the grey pollen dust.
The flocks of birds eager after honey chirped on the trees.

34. The cuckoo cooed sweetly in the forests and
parks, generating love, on the branches heavily laden with
flowers.

35. Then being glanced at by Kama who was not
vanquished, the crescent-crested lord Siva highly indulgent
in sports spoke to Nandin.

319. Mlecchas were wild ferocious tribes whose acts of violence
caused vast devastations and destructions, struck terror in the social life
of the country. They are said to have been repulsed and destroyed by
lord Siva.

320. Matrs are the divine mothers or personified energies of the
principal deities reckoned variously as seven, eight, nine or sixteen in
numbers. They are closely connected with the worship of Siva and are
described as attending on his son karttikeya to whom at first only seven
Matrs were assigned.

RudrasathhitS

1029

The crescent-crested Siva said: —

36. Go quickly from this forest and tell the dark-
complexioned Parvati everything and bring her here from
Kailasa after she has bedecked herself.

Sanatkumara said: —

37. "So be it" answered the secret messenger of Siva
who started on journey. Reaching there, with palms
joined in reverence he bowed to Parvati and said.
NandiSvara said: —

38. "O goddess, the great lord of the gods wishes to
see you, his beloved, well-dressed. It is at his bidding that
I say this".

Sanatkumara said: —

39. O excellent sage, then, at his importunity, Parvati,
devoted to her husband, began to bedeck herself ardently.

40. "I am coming. You return and so inform the
lord at my bidding". The Nandin approached Siva with
the- velocity of mind.

41. Siva who was extremely agitated told Nandin
again. "Dear, go again and fetch Parvati from there".

42. "Yes, sir", said he. He went to Parvati of sweet
appearance and said: "Your lord wishes to see you beautifully
and gorgeously dressed.

43. O goddess, Siva is eagerly waiting for various
sports. O daughter of the mountain, please go since the lord
is distressed with passion.".

44-46. All the celestial damsels told one another —
"Since lord Siva is very eager to see Parvati being passio-
nate, the lady whom this enemy of Kama may woo will
certainly be the queen of celestial damsels. She may sport
with lord Siva in the form of Parvati accompanied by the
Ganas of Kama. Kama is indeed victorious over his foe.

321. The printed editions read KQ^manda for Kumbhanda. In
fact, Chitraleicha, companion of Osa, was the daughter of Kumbhanda — a
reputed minister of Bana. Cp. Verse 38 of the next chapter.

1030

SivapurSna

47. If any lady, save Parvati, is able to touch Siva, let
her go there unhesitatingly and fascinate him.

48. The daughter of KumbMnda, 321 Citralekha said —
"I desire to attract Siva in the form of Parvati.

49. Just as Visnu, by taking recourse to his yogic
powers assumed the form of Enchantress (Mohini)".

50. On seeing the change of form of Urvasi, Ghrtaci
adopted the form of Kali and VisvacI that of Candika.

51. Rambha assumed the form of Savitri, Menaka
that of Gayatri; Sahajanya. that of Jaya and Punjikasthali
that of Vijaya.

52. The unnamed celestial damsels assumed the forms
of unnamed mothers with effort by employing their art.

53. On seeing their forms, the daughter of Kum-
bhanda, taking recourse to the Vaisnava and her own Yoga,
knew everything and emulated the same.

54. tJsa, daughter of the Asura Bana efficient in divine
Yoga, assumed the wonderfully auspicious and divine form
of Parvati.

55. Her feet were of excellent lustre. They shone
like the great red lotus. They had all the divine charac-
teristics bestowing every desired object.

56. Knowing that she wanted to indulge in love-sport
with Siva, the omniscient and omnipresent Parvati spoke.

Parvati said —

57-59. O friend Usa, chaste and honourable lady since
you have adopted my form out of passion, so you will
have the monthly course in the appropriate time in the
Karttika month. On the twelfth day in the bright half of
VaiSakha, you will undertake a fast. During the night
while you are asleep in the harem, a man will come there
and enjoy you. He has been made your husband by the
gods. You will sport with him.

60. This is because you have been devoted to Visnu
ever since childhood without sinking into lethargy. She
then mumbled to herself. "Let it be so" and was very
bashful.

61. Then the goddess Parvati bedecked herself zealous-
ly and went to Siva. She then sported with him.

RudrasathkitS

1031

62. O sage, at the end of the dalliance Lord Siva
vanished from the place accompanied by his wife, the Ganas
and the gods.

CHAPTER FIFTYTWO

( The story of Usa)

Sanatkumara said: —

1 . Listen to another story of Siva the great soul which
bestows the highest pleasure and wherein his endearment to
his devotees can be seen.

2-3. Formerly the Asura Bana had pleased Siva by
performing the Tandava dance. By adverse fate he became
haughty. On realising that Siva, the lover of Parvati, was
delighted in mind, the Asura Bana joined his palms in
reverence, bent his shoulders and spoke.

Bana said: —

4. O great god, lord of the gods and crest-jewel of
all the gods, I am very strong, thanks to your favour.

5. A thousand hands have been given to me by you.
They are only a burden to me, since except you I do not
find any match to oppose me having an equal strength.

6. O bull-bannered lord, what can I do with these
thousand mountain-like hands without a fight.

7. When my hands itch for war I desire to fight the
elephants of the quarters. By hitting the cities and moun-
tains I reduced them to powder. Being frightened they fled
away.

8. Yama has been made a combatant with me and
the great fire-god too, similarly. Varuna has been made a
cowherd looking after my cows.

9. Kubera has been made the in-charge of couches,
Nirrti a chaperon. Indra has been defeated and forced to
pay tribute.

10-11. Please suggest a fight unto me wherein my
hands may fall shattered by the weapons hurled by the

1032

Sivapurarfa

enemy or cause him to fall in thousand pieces. O lord Siva,
please fulfil this desire of mine.

Sanatkumara said: —

12. Becoming furious on hearing that, Siva laughed
boisterously and in a wonderful manner- Siva the remover
of the distress of devotees became very angry and said.

Siva said —

13. Fie upon you, O haughty base Daitya, such a
talk as this does not behove the son of Bali and a devotee.

14. Very soon, you will meet a terrible challenge to
your bluff by fighting a great battle against person equal to

fin strength. The battle will be sudden.
15. Therein your mountain- like hands will be cut off
by weapons and missiles. They will fall off like reeds or
stumps of plantain trees.

16-18. "O wicked soul, when this flagstaff of yours,
with the emblem of a peacock with a human head, which is
installed in your armoury, falls without being blown off by
a gust of wind, you can decide within your mind that a
terrible battle is at hand. Go to that terrible war accomp-
anied by all your generals. Now return to your abode
where Siva is present.

19. O wicked one, you will see the great evil por-
tents." After saying this, the lord who is favourably disposed
to the devotees and is the dispeller of pride stopped.

Sanatkumara said: —

20. After hearing that, Bana worshiped Siva with
palms joined in reverence in the form of buds and bow,ed to
lord Siva. He then went to his abode.

21. On being asked, the delighted Asura mentioned
everything to Kumbhanda in the manner it had happened.
The Asura Bana awaited the particular conjunction of
circumstances eagerly.

22. Once, by chance he saw the flagstaff broken and
fallen. On seeing it, he was delighted and he set out for war.

23-24. He called together his entire army. He was

Rudrasarhhita

1033

accompanied by his eight lieutenants. He performed the
sacrifice for success in war. He surveyed the wine 322 prepared
for use in the course of war. He observed the auspicious
signs in the quarters and set off. He, the son of Bali, 323 the
heroic warrior capable of fighting with ten thousand persons,
was very enthusiastic.

25-26. He thought within himself— "Who can be that
warrior fond of battle, a master of the art of using weapons
and missiles who will cut off my thousand hands like reeds
or whom I shall cut into hundred pieces ?"

27-28. In the meantime, in the month of Vaisakha
after her monthly course, the daughter of Bana had her aus-
picious bath and auspicious rites after worshipping lord Siva.
At night she lay asleep in the well-guarded harem. It was
then that Kama entered the place with lord Siva.

29-30. She was seized by Krsna's grandson 321 sent by
Parvati of divine Maya. She began to cry helplessly. He
enjoyed her forcibly. Within a moment he was carried to
Dvaraka^s by Parvati 5 s attendants by means of their divine
Yogic power.

31. Rubbed and squeezed thus, she got up crying. She
mumbled various words to her female attendants. She even
decided to give up her life.

32. O Vyasa, she was then reminded by her friend of
the fault she had committed previously. She then came to
realise the entire incident that had occurred formerly.

33. O sage, Csa, daughter of Bana, spoke sweetly to
Citralekha, daughter of Kumbhanda.

Ufa said —

34. "Dear friend, if he is the person ordained as my
husband by Parvati, how can I obtain him duly ?

3aa. Gp. Note 277 P. 963.

3S3. Bana was the son of Bali also called !Mahabali. He ruled at
Sonitapura while his father's capital was Mahabalipura. We can construct
the ancestry of Bana from Sivapurana : Hiranyakasipu — Prahlada —
Virocana— Bali — Bana .

324. Aniruddha was the son of Pradyumna and grandson of Krsna.

325- There were two Dvarakas connected with Kisna. The one
was situated near Kodinar on the sea-shore between the mouths of the
rivers : Somat and Singavara. Kysna is said to have resided here and
later on transferred himself to Dvaraka in Okha' mandala in Kathiawair.

1034

Sivapuratfa

35. In what family is he born who has fascinated
my mind thus ?" On hearing the words of Osa, the friend
told her then.

Citralekha said: —

36. "O gentle lady, how shall I bring that man who
was seen by you in the dream and whom I do not know."

37. Thus said by her, the daughter of the Daitya
blinded by passion was ready to end her life. She was
saved thus by her friend on the first day.

38. O excellent sage, again that daughter of Kum-
bhanda, Citralekha, of great intellect spoke to Csa the
daughter of Bana.

39. I can dispel your grief if such a man could be
anywhere in the three worlds. I shall bring him who has
captivated your mind. Please mention the details of his
features.

Sanatkumara said: —

40. After saying this, she painted all the gods on a
canvas together with the Daityas, Danavas, Gandharvas,
Siddhas, Nagas, Yaksas and others.

41. Similarly she painted men, the Vrsnis among them,
the heroic Anakadundubhi, Balarama, Krsna and Pradyumna
the excellent among men.

42. On seeing Aniruddha the son of Pradyumna
painted, she became bashful. Usa's heart was filled with
delight. She stood with downcast face.

Usa said —

43. "O, this is the thief who has stolen my heart.
This is the man whom I secured in the night.

44. By his very contact I became fascinated. I wish
to know about him. O beautiful woman, mention everything
to me.

45. In whose family is he born ? What is his name ?
On being thus asked by her, the lady, expert in yogic
practice, mentioned the name of the family.

46. O excellent sage, on hearing about his family,
the eager , and passionate daughter pf Bana said.

Rudrasarhhitd

1035

Us a said —

47-48. O my friend, ascertain some means lovingly so
that I shall regain my beloved husband in a trice. Without
him, my friend, I am not at all eager to live even for a
moment. Please bring him here strenuously. O my friend,
make me happy.

Sanatkumara said: —

49. On being thus requested by the daughter of Bana,
O excellent sage, the daughter of the minister was surprised
and began to think seriously.

50. Then taking leave of her friend, and knowing
him to be the grandson of Krsna, Citralekha got ready to
go to Dvaraka with the velocity of the mind.

51-53. When the third day after the fourteenth day in
the dark half of the month of Jyestha elapsed, a Muhurta
before the dawn, she reached the city of Dvaraka within a
moment by the aerial path because she was a Yoginl. Then
in the park of the harem the son of Pradyumna was seen by
her playing with women and drinking wine. He was dark-
complexioned but beautiful in every limb, smiling and in the
prime of youth.

54-55. When he lay on the cot she encompassed him
with the shroud of darkness by employing her Tamasa Yoga.
Thereafter she carried the cot on her head and within a
moment reached the city of Sonita where the daughter of
Bana eagerly awaited her.

56. Passionate that she was, she made various mad
pranks displaying her emotions. On seeing that he was
actually brought she became frightened too.

57. When they began their sexual dalliance in that
fresh contact in the well-guarded harem, it became known
to all in a moment.

58-59. The man with a divine body who carried
on illegitimate affairs with a virgin was found out by the
persons appointed at the doorway to the harem with cane-
sticks in their old and emaciated hands, by means of gestures
and inferences. They understood that he was a young man,
yery comely in features, daring ar.d fcr.d of battle.

1036

SivapurSna

60. On seeing him, the heroic men who guarded the
harem went and told Bana, son of Bali, everything.

The gatekeepers said : —

61. O lord, no one knows how this was done. Indra
has entered your harem in secret and forcibly. He has
outraged the modesty of your daughter by seizing her
himself.

62. O lord of Danavas, of great arms, see, see him here.
Do whatever is proper. We are not at fault.

Sanatkumara said: —

63. O excellent sage, on hearing their words, on hear-
ing of the defilement of his daughter, the lord of Danavas of
great strength, became surprised.

CHAPTER FIFTYTHREE

( The dalliance of Usa and Aniruddha)

Sanatkumara said: —

1. The infuriated Asura Bana went there and saw
Aniruddha who was in the fresh years of youth and who
seemed to have been born especially for divine sports.

2. The infuriated Bana, very efficient in war 5 was a
bit surprised on seeing him and wondered why he had done
like that and therefore said mockingly.

3. "Oh this man is really handsome, bold and daring.
Who can this unfortunate deluded person be? His death is
imminent.

4. O angry ones, with terrible weapons immediately
kill the fellow who has outraged the traditional purity of my
family and denied my dear daughter.

5. O heroic ones, bind the terrible fellow of evil
conduct. Put him in a frightful prison for a long time".

6. After saying this, the Asura Bana thought within
himself intelligently. "It is not known who this fearless fellow
is. Certainly he is a man of terrible exploit". Thinking
thus Bana hesitated to act

Rudrasamkita

i037

7. Then gradually the evil-minded Daitya ordered ten
thousand men from his army for slaying him.

8. Commanded by him those heroic terrible fellows
encircled the harem saying. ''Cut him, pierce him".

9-10. On seeing the army of the enemy, Aniruddha
the scion of the Yadava family, roared. He seized the big
iron club from the harem-gate and came out of the apart-
ment like the god of death armed with thunderbolt. With
that iron club he killed the servants and returned to the
harem.

11. O excellent sage, thus Aniruddha strengthened by
Siva's splendour, with eyes turned red by anger, killed all
the ten thousand men of the army.

12-14. With the sword captured in the course of the
battle he killed ten thousands of horses and charioteers of
the lord of Daityas. When a hundred thousand soldiers had
been killed, the Asura Bana furiously entered the fray
taking with him Kumbhanda, expert in war. He then
challenged Aniruddha for a duel in the course of that war —
Aniruddha the highly intelligent son of Pradyumna, of
refulgent body and protected by Siva's brilliance.

15. Aniruddha then seized a spear blazing like the
fire of death, for killing him and hit him with that.

16. Bana was hit with the spear even as he was seated
in a chariot. In a trice the heroic demon vanished along
with his horse.

17. When he vanished, Aniruddha, the unvanquished
son of Pradyumna, stood steady like a mountain observing
all the quarters.

18. Remaining invisible, that Danava Bana, practising
deceptive fight, hit him again and again with thousands of
weapons.

19. That powerful son of Bali, the heroic devotee of
Siva, the Asura Bana deceitfully bound him with
Serpent-nooses. 326

20. After binding him and putting him in a cage he

326. NagapaSa was a sort of magical noose used in battle to
entangle an enemy. Formerly it was the exclusive weapon of Asura
Varuna.

i t)33 iivapurana

stopped the battle. The infuriated Bana then spoke to the
very powerful son of the charioteer.

The Asura Bana said: —

21. O son of the charioteer, cut off the head of this
wicked fellow who has denied my family.

22. After chopping off the limbs, give them to the
Raksasas. Or let the beasts of prey swallow his flesh and
blood.

23. Or kill this sinner and put him in a grassy well.
O son of the charioteer, what more shall I say ? By all
means he must be slain. -

Sanatkumara said: —

24. On hearing his words, the Asura Kumbhanda,
the most excellent of the ministers and righteous in thought,
spoke to Bana.

Kumbhanda said: —

25. O lord, this is not a proper thing to do. Please
consider. I think by killing him we will be killing
ourselves.

26. O lord, he seems to be equal to Visnu in exploits.
His strength has been increased by the brilliance of the
moon-crested lord, your favourite.

27. Moreover, in daring he is equal to the moon-
crested lord; though he is reduced to this plight he main-
tains his manliness.

28. It is by the grace of Siva that he, the grandson
of Krsna, considers us insignificant as the blades of grass.
Although he is bitten by serpents cruelly he is still very
strong.

Sanatkumara said:—

29. After saying thus to Bana, the Danava, the most
excellent among statesmen, spoke to Aniruddha.

Kumbhanda said: —

30. <f O hero, who are you? Whose son are you? Tell

kudrascuhhita

1639

us the truth. O meanest of men, of evil conduct, by whom
have you been brought here ?

31. Repeat piteously "I am vanquished'. Eulogise
the heroic lord of the Daityas. Join your palms in reverence
and bow to him.

32. If you do like this, you may get release. Other-
wise this captivity and tortures will continue". On hearing
this Aniruddha replied.

Aniruddha said: —

33. O friend of the basest of Daityas, O you that
sustain yourself with the balls of rice offered in the hands,
O demon of evil conduct, you do not know the laws of
adversaries.

34. I think that for the valorous person humble
supplications and running away from the battlefield are
worse than death. These are adverse and painful to him
like a dart.

35. For a Ksatriya, death while fighting face to face
with the enemy is commendable rather than joining the
palms in reverence like a man in humble condition professing
to be valorous.

Sanatkumara said: —

36. These and many other heroic words he uttered, on
hearing which Bana was surprised and angry too.

37. Then a celestial voice was heard for the pacifica-
tion of Bana which all the heroes, Aniruddha and the
minister, stood listening to.

The celestial voice said: —

38. "O Bana, O great hero, you shall not be angry.
"O devotee of Siva, O intelligent one, you are the son of
Bali. Ponder over this.

39. Siva, the lord of all, the supreme lord, is the
witness of all activities. This entire universe including the
mobile and immobile beings is subservient to him.

40. He alone is the creator, maintainer and the
destroyer of the worlds, always taking up the attributes of

1040

'ivapurana

Rajas, Sattva and Tamas in the form of Brahma., Visnu and
Siva.

41 . . The lord is omnipresent. He is the inducer,
greater than all. He is free from aberrations, unchanging,
eternal, the lord of illusion and devoid of attributes.

42. Even a weak person becomes strong, thanks to his
will, O excellent son of Bali. O intelligent one, realise
this in your mind, be normal and complacent.

43. The lord who quells pride, who is an expert in
various sports and who is favourably disposed to his devotees
will destroy your arrogance."

Sanatkumara said: —

44. O great sage, having spoken thus, the celestial
voice stopped. On hearing these words the Asura Bana
did not kill Aniruddha.

45. Then he went to his harem and drank excellent
beverages. His intellect was adversely affected, he forgot
those words and began to sport.

46. Aniruddha was bound by serpentine bodies emitting
poison powerfully. His passion for his beloved had not
been satiated fully. He remembered Durga then.

Aniruddha said; —

47. O goddess, you are worthy of being resorted to.
I have been bound by serpents. O goddess bestowing fame,
O goddess of fierce fury, come and save me.

48. O great goddess, devotee of Siva, O cause of
creation, sustenance and dissolution, there is no other saviour
except you. O Siva, save me.

Sanatkumara said: —

49. Propitiated by him, Kali, lustrous like the split
collyrium, arrived there in the dark night of the fourteenth
day in the dark half of the month Jyestha.

50-51. With the heavy blows of her fists she broke
the cage. She reduced the serpentine arrows to ashes. She
released Aniruddha and let him enter the harem and then
vanished from the scene.

52. O great sage, thus, thanks to the grace of the

Rudrasarhhita 1041

goddess — the Energy of Siva, Aniruddha got rid of the
difficulty, became free from pain and obtained happiness.

53. Securing success by means of Siva's Energy,
Aniruddha the son of Pradyumna gained access to his
beloved, the daughter of Bana and rejoiced.

54. In the company of his beloved — the daughter of
Bana, he carried on dalliance and was happy drinking the
beverages till his eyes became red.

CHAPTER FIFTYFOUR

{The fight among Bana, Siva, Krsna and others)
Vyasa said: —

1. O excellent sage, when Aniruddha the grandson
of Krsna was abducted by the daughter of Kumbhanda
what did Krsna do ? Please narrate it to me.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. O excellent sage, on hearing the woeful cries of
his women when Aniruddha had gone off suddenly, Krsna
too became vexed.

3. The four months of the rainy season thus went by
when his relatives and Visnu could not see Aniruddha and
so they bewailed.

4. On hearing from Narada about the imprisonment
and activities of Aniruddha the Vrsnis, followers of Krsna,
became dejected.

5. On hearing everything, Krsna immediately called
Garuda and went to the city of Sonita eagerly for
fighting.

6. Pradyumna, Yuyudhana, Samba, Sarana, Nanda,
Upananda, Bhadra and others following Rama and Krsna
went there.

Sivapurana

7. They were accompanied by twelve Aksauhinls.
They, the chief of Satvatas 327 laid a siege all round the city
of Ban a.

8. On seeing the parks, fortresses, ceilings and
minarets of the city thus broken, Bana became infuriated
and set forth with an equal number of armies.

9. In order to help Bana, lord Rudra accompanied by
his son and the Pramathas rode on the bull Nandin and
arrived there to fight.

10. A tumultuous fight, wonderfully causing horripi-
lation ensued between Krsna and his followers on the one
hand and the supporters of Bana, Rudra etc. on the
other.

1 1 . The fight was between Krsna and Siva ; Pradyumna
and Karttikeya; Kumbhandaka and Kupakarna, Bala and
Samyuga.

12. Samba fought with Bana's son; Satyaki with Bana;
Garuda with Nandin and groups of one side fought with
the groups of the other.

13. Brahma and other gods, sages, Siddhas, Caranas,
Gandharvas and celestial damsels came there in aerial
chariots to witness the affray.

14. O best of brahmins, a terrible fight ensued between
the members of the Yadu family with the groups of
Pramathas ending with "Revatis".

15. Krsna, his brother Rama and the intelligent
Pradyumna, fought an unequalled fight with the Pramathas.

16-17. The fight continued with Agni, Yama, Varuna,
Vimukha, Tripada, Jvara and Karttikeya and groups of
Pramathas with the Vrsnis. It was terrible and frightful
causing horripilation.

18. There was fight with the shameless women too,
several groups of terrifying Kotaris at every step, not far
from one another.

19. Krsna routed the Bhiitas, Pramathas and

327. Satvatas were a family of Yadava race whose founder was
Yadu, son of King Yayati. King Satvata founded a branch of the
Yadavas after his name. He had four sons : (1) Bhajin Bhajamana (2)
Devavrdha (3) Andhaka mahabhoja and (4) Vrsni. Krsna, the celebrated
hero of the Mahabharata was born in the Satvata- Vrsiii family.

Rudrasarfihita

164$

Guhyakas, the followers of Siva with sharp-pointed arrows
discharged from his bow.

20. The heroes Pradyumna and others jubilant over
the war destroyed the armies of the enemies and fought
terribly.

21. On seeing his army being scattered, Siva became
highly infuriated and roared terribly.

22. On hearing that, Siva's Ganas too shouted and
fought. They suppressed the opponents with their strength
increased by Siva's brilliance.

23. Krsna discharged separate types of missiles from
his bow towards the trident-bearing lord Siva who without
showing any dismay quelled them directly.

24. They discharged Brahma-missile in counter to
Brahma missile; the mountain-missile to the wind-missile;
the cloud-missile to the fire-missile and Siva-missile to the
Narayana missile.

25. Defeated by the opponents, the army of Krsna
fled, O Vyasa; it could not face the full refulgence of
Siva.

26. O sage, when his army was routed, lord Krsna,
the scorcher of enemies, discharged terrible fever missile
named 'cold'. 328

27. O sage, when the army of Krsna was routed, the
cold fever missile of Krsna rushed at Rudra blazing the
ten quarters.

28. On seeing that coming, lord Siva discharged his
own fever missile. The two fever missiles fought each
other.

29. Oppressed by the fever missile of lord Siva, the
fever missile of Siva cried aloud. Unable to secure succour
elsewhere, it eulogised the bull-bannered lord.

30. The delighted lord Siva, favourably disposed to
those who seek refuge, eulogised by Visnu's fever missile,
spoke to the cold fever missile of Visnu.

328. The mention of the missile of cold fever and of the counter
missile to ward it off indicates the heights that India had attained in
military science.

1044

Sivapurana

Lord Siva said: —

31. {t O cold fever, I am delighted. Leave off your
fear from my fever. There is no fear from fever to him
who remembers this anecdote.

Sanatkumara said: —

.32. Thus advised, the fever missile of Visnu went away
after bowing to Siva. On seeing that activity, Krsna was
surprised and dismayed.

33. When attacked by the arrows of Pradyumna, the
infuriated Karttikeya, the slayer of Daityas, hit Pradyumna
with his spear.

34. When hit by Karttikeya's spear, Pradyumna,
though very strong, shed blood from his limbs and fled
from the battle ground.

35. Hit with various missiles by Kumbhanda and
Kupakarna, Balabhadra though strong did not stay there.
He fled from the battle-field.

36. Garuda, took up a thousand bodies and drank up
the water from the great sea. He then began to work
havoc by showering the sea-waters through Avarta
clouds.

37. Then the infuriated bull, the powerful vehicle of
lord Siva, hit him with great force by means of his
horns.

38. When his limbs were shattered by the blows of
his horns, Garuda was dismayed. He forsook Visnu and
fled from the battle ground immediately.

39. When the situation was like this, lord Krsna,
dismayed by Siva's refulgence spoke to the charioteer
suddenly.

Lord Krsiia said: —

40. O charioteer, listen to my words. Drive the
chariot immediately to lord Siva so that I shall speak to
him.

Sanatkumara said: — -

41. Thus commanded by Visnu, the charioteer Daruka,

RudrasarhhitS

1045

the foremost of persons of good qualities, drove the chariot
immediately to lord Siva.

42. Lord Krsna resorted to Siva, favourably disposed
to his devotees, bowed to him with devotion with palms
joined in reverence and submitted as follows.

Lord Krfna said: —

43. O lord Siva, lord of the gods, favourably dis-
posed to those who seek refuge in you, I bow to you the
great lord, the soul of all" and of infinite power.

44. I bow to you, the cause of the origin, sustenance
and dissolution of the universe, the sole form of perfect
knowledge, the symbol of Brahman, the highly quiescent,
the supreme lord.

45-46. The time, the divinity, the activity, the indivi-
dual soul, the nature, the solid objects, the vital airs, the
soul, the groups of created beings, the series of seeds and
sprouts everything is your illusion, O lord of the universe.
I resort to you the cause of those things, the great lord.

47. By the different forms assumed by you sportively,
you, the lord of the worlds, support the gods and others and
destroy those who go astray.

48. You are the Brahman, the great light that is
hidden in the Sabda Brahman which the purified souls see
like the sole firmament.

49. You are the primordial Purusa without a second.
You are the fourth being, 339 the vision of the soul. You
appear as undergoing change though you are the lord, the
cause without another cause unto you.

50. O lord, for the manifestation of all the attributes,
you appear different through your illusion, O supreme lord.

51. O lord, just as the unconcealed sun illuminates
many of his reflections by his brilliance, so you too do, being
the great illuminating light.

52. O great one, O self-illuminated lord Siva, you

329. Siva represents the fourth (Turya) state of the soul, the pure,
impersonal and unconditioned. The other three states of the soul viz.
the state of wakefulness ( 5ff 'STcT) dream (?«FT) and unconsciousness
(^TPcT) are impure, personal and conditioned by physical envelope.

1046

Sivapurana

brighten the attributes by means of the attribute itself,
though you are not encompassed by the attribute.

53. People whose intellects are deluded by your
illusion become attached to sons, wives, abodes etc. and
sink and float in the ocean of sin.

54. After deriving this divinely bestowed human
habitation, if a person does not control his sense-organs and
respect your feet he is to be pitied. He deceives his own
self.

55. O lord, it is at your bidding that I have come
here to cut off the hands of Bana. , This haughty Bana
was cursed by you who are the destroyer of haughtiness.

56. O lord, please return from the battle-ground.
Let not your curse go in vain. O lord, command me to cut
off the hands of Bana.

Sanatkutnara said: —

57. O great sage, on hearing these words of lord
Krsna, Siva the supreme lord who was propitiated by
Krsna's eulogy, replied : —

Lord Siva said: —

58. O dear, what you say is true; the lord of the
Daityas has been cursed by me. It is at my bidding that
you have come here to cut off the hands of Bana.

59. O lord of LaksmT, what can I do? O Visnu, I
am subservient to my devotees always. How can there be
the chopping of Bana's arms while I am watching ?

60. Hence at my bidding make me benumbed by means
of your Jrmbhana missile. 330 Thereafter you can do as you
please and be happy.

Sanatkumara said : —

61. O great sage, thus urged by Siva, lord Krsna
was surprised. He returned to the battlefield and rejoiced.

62. O Vyasa, Visnu an expert in the use of various
missiles fixed the Jrmbhana missile to the bow and dis-
charged it at Siva.

3'3°: Jrmbhana missile is said to possess the potency of benvmbing
the activities of the person against whom it is used.

Rudrasarhkitfi

1047

63. After enchanting Siva, and making him benumbed
by means of the Jrmbhana missile, Visnu slew the army of
Bana by means of swords, daggers and clubs.

CHAPTER FIFTYFIVE

( The chopping of Bana's arms and his humiliation )
Vyasa said:-—

1. O dear sage, Sanatkumara, O omniscient son of
Brahma, obeisance be to you. A wonderful story has been
narrated to me by you.

2. When Siva was made to yawn and lie flat by Visnu
through the Jrmbhana missile, in the course of the war and
when the army of Bana was slain, what did Bana do?
Please narrate.

Suta said: —

3. On hearing these words of Vyasa of immeasurable
refulgence, the great sage, the delighted son of Brahma,
replied.

Sanatkumara said: —

4. O Vyasa of great intellect, listen to the highly
wonderful story of Krsna and Siva who indulge in sports
in accordance with the worldly conventions.

5. When Siva sportively lay flat on the ground along
with his sons and Ganas, Bana the king of Daityas came
out to fight with Krsna.

6. With the horses mobilised by Kumbhanda, and
holding various weapons and missiles, the powerful son of
Bali performed an incomparable fight.

7. On seeing his army destroyed, the lord of the
Daityas became infuriated. The powerful son of Bali
fought an incomparable battle.

8. Lord Krsna the great hero with additional strength
derived from Siva roared loudly in the battlefield consi-
dering Bana as insignificant as a blade of grass.

1048

Sivapurana

9. O great sage, he made the twanging sound on his
wonderful bow called Sarnga and frightened what little
remained of Bana's army.

10. The intervening space between heaven and Earth
was filled with the great sound originating from the twang
on his bow.

1 1. Drawing the string of his bow upto the ear, the
infuriated Visnu discharged sharp arrows, as furious as
serpents, on Bana.

12. On seeing the arrows coming, Bana the son of
Bali, split them even before they reached him, by means
of arrows discharged from his bow.

13. Lord Bana, suppressor of enemies roared again.
The Vrsnis thinking of Krsna were afraid and dejected.

14'. Thinking upon the lotus-like feet of Siva ; the
haughty son of Bali discharged his arrows at Krsna the
most valorous.

15. Thinking upon the lotus-like feet of Siva, the
powerful destroyer of Asuras, Krsna split them before they
reached him by means of his own arrows.

16. Rama and other Vrsnis, the powerful ones agitated
by anger, slew their respective opponents.

17. Thus the tumultuous fight between the two strong
armies went on for a long time aggravating the wonder of
the spectators.

18. In the meantime the infuriated king of birds
suppressed the army of Bana striking all with his wings.

19. Seeing his army routed and himself oppressed (
Bana, the powerful lord of Daityas, son of Bali, foremost
among Siva's devotees, was infuriated.

20. Thinking upon the lotus-like feet of Siva, the
thousand-armed Bana displayed his valour unbearable to
his enemies.

21. The destroyer of heroes discharged simultaneously
an unlimited number of arrows on Garuda, Krsna and
Yadus separately.

22. O sage, he hit Garuda with an arrow, Krsna
with another, Bala with a third. The powerful hero hit
others too.

23. Then Krsna the great lord, of great valour, of the „

Rudrasarhkitd

1049.

form of Visnu, the destroyer of demons, became angry and
roared in the course of the battle.

24. Thinking upon Siva he hit Bana and his terrible
army simultaneously with the good arrows discharged with
force from his bow.

25. Visnu split his bow and umbrella as well as
other things. Without being excited he killed and felled his
horses by means of his arrows.

26. Bana the great hero roared furiously. He hit
Krsna with his iron club and Krsna fell on the ground.

27. O celestial sage, Krsna got up immediately and
fought with Bana, the great devotee of Siva. It was to
keep up the worldly sport that he fought thus.

28. A great battle went on for a long time between
Krsna who was Visnu or Siva himself and that strong
Asura who was the most excellent devotee of Siva.

29. O great sage, the powerful Krsna fought for a
long time with Bana. Deriving strength at the instance of
Siva he became furious.

30. At the bidding of Siva, lord Krsna, the destroyer
of heroic enemies, chopped off several arms of Bana by
means of Sudarsana.

31. Only his four beautiful arms were left. Thanks
to the grace of Siva, the demon too was freed from pain.

32. Forgetting himself, Krsna who assumed a great
prowess, attempted to cut off the head of Bana. Then Siva
got up.

£iva said: —

33. O lord, son of Devaki, O Visnu, what was
ordained by me formerly has been accomplished by you who
always follow my dictates.

34. Do not cut off the head of Bana. Withdraw
your weapon Sudarsana. At my bidding the discus shall
always be rendered ineffective with regard to my people.

35. O Visnu, this unfailing discus and victory in
battle were formerly bestowed on you by me. Hence you
withdraw from the battleground.

36. O lord of L^kispii, }ou did not hvirl this discus at

1050

Sivapurana

Dadhlca, 331 Ravana, Taraka, Tripuras and others without
my consent.

37. You are a great Yogin, the supreme soul and the
exciter of men. Hence you ponder over this yourself. You are
engaged in the welfare of all living beings.

38. I have granted him a boon that he will not fear
death. These words of mine shall remain true for ever.
I am pleased with you.

39. O Visnu, sometime back he became haughty
enough to say "Give me battle" while he scratched his arms
and forgot his goal.

40. Then I cursed him — "Ere long, the person will
arrive and cut off your arms. You shall be cured of your
haughtiness".

41. [Turning to Bana) At my bidding Visnu has cut
off your arms. Now withdraw from the battlefield. Go
back to your abode along with the married couple.

Sanatkumara said: —

42. Saying this and uniting them in friendship, lord Siva
returned to his abode along with his sons and Ganas.

43. On hearing the words of Siva, Krsna withdrew
Sudarsana. With his body unwounded, the victorious Krsna
entered into the harem.

44. He consoled Aniruddha and his wife. He accep-
ted the jewels given in plenty by Bana.

45. They took Osa's friend Citralekha. the great
Yogini also with them. Krsna who accomplished his task
at the bidding of Siva was immensely pleased.

46. After mentally bowing to Siva, Visnu took leave
of Bana and returned to his city along with his followers.

47. On the way he conquered Varuna who had
opposed him in various ways. After reaching Dvaraka he
celebrated the event jubilantly.

48. After reaching Dvaraka he dismissed Garuda.
Seeing his friends and joking with them he roamed about
as he pleased.

331. It refers to the incident pf the battle between Visnu and
Dadhlca., Cp, SP. RS II Ch. .39,

Rudrasarhhitd

1051

CHAPTER FIFTYSIX

(Banasura attains the position of Siva's Gana)

Narada said: —

1. O great sage, when Krsna left for Dvaraka along
with Aniruddha and his wife, what did Bana do? Please
narrate the same to me.

Sanatkumara said: —

2. When Krsna left for Dvaraka with Aniruddha and
his wife, Bana was distressed thinking on his previous ignorance.

3. Then Nandin, a gana of Siva, spoke to the grief-
stricken Daitya Bana whose limbs were smeared with blood
and who repented repeatedly.

Nandisvara said: —

4. O Bana, devotee of Siva, do not repent. Siva is
compassionate towards his devotees. Hence he is called
Bhaktavatsala (i.e. favourably disposed to the devotees).

5. O foremost among devotees, whatever has happened,
has happened at his will. Consider this and remember Siva

again and again.

6. Fixing your mind in the primordial being, Siva

who is compassionate towards the devotees, you celebrate his
festival again and again.

7. At the suggestion of Nandin, Bana who had been
like Rahu unto his enemies immediately went to Siva's
temple with lofty mind and great courage.

8. After going there he bowed to the lord and
lamented in great agitation. Bana who had been divested of
his haughtiness became overwhelmed with love and devotion.

9-10. He eulogised him with various hymns. He bowed
to the lord in the course of his worship. With proper steps
and gestures of hands he performed the Tandava dance
assuming various poses and postures — Pratyalidha, Sthanaka,
Aiidha 332 being the chief among them.

332. Aiidha is a kind of pose in dance, with the right foot advanced
and the left retracted. The opposite of this is the pose of Pratyalidha in
which the left foot is advanced arid the right is, drawn back. Sthanaka is a
particular attitude of the body iri dance.

1052

SivapurSiia

11-14. He produced thousands of gestures through his
mouth. He knit and bent his brows and shook his head
in various ways. He kept thousands of attendants in rows.
He showed various gestures gradually. Much of his blood
was shed on the ground. By all these rmeans be propitiated
the trident-bearing moon-crested lord. Banasura the great
devotee of Siva forgot himself and his activities in the
course of his worship. Siva who is fond of dance and
music and is favourably disposed to his devotees spoke to
Bana.

Siva said: —

15. "Dear Bana, son of Bali, I am delighted by your
dance. O lord of Daityas, you choose the boon whatever
be in your mind".

Sanatkumdra said: —

16-20. O sage, on hearing the words of Siva, Bana
the lord of Daityas asked for the healing of wounds, the
skill in duels, everlasting position of Ganahood, the kingship
for Usa's son at the city of Sonita, absence of enmity with
the gods and Visnu in particular, absence of rebirth as a
Daitya defiled by the attributes Rajas and Tamas, special
devotion to Siva without any aberration for ever, friendship
with the devotees of Siva and kindness to all living beings.
After requesting for these boons, the son of Bali, the great
Asura joined his palms in reverence and eulogised Siva with
tears of love in his eyes.

Bana said: —

21. O great lord, lord of the gods, favourably dis-
posed to those who seek refuge in you, O great lord, I bow
to you, O kinsman of the distressed, O storehouse of
mercy.

22. O Siva, O ocean of sympathy, you have taken pity
on me. O lord, being delighted with me you have removed
my arrogance.

. 23. You are Brahman, the great soul, the all-pervad-
ing lord. Your body is the whole cosmos. You are Ugra,
tii, Viraf, the great, accompanied^ by everything.

kudrasarhhita

i053

24. O lord, your navel is the sky, mouth is the fire,
semen is the water, ear the quarters, head the heaven, foot
the earth and mind the moon.

25. Your eye is the sun, the stomach the ocean, the
arm Indra, and the intellect Brahma. Your excretion is
Prajapati and your heart is Dharma.

26. O lord, your hairs are the herbs and plants, your
tresses the clouds, your eyes the three attributes. You are
the Purusa, the soul of all.

27. They call Brahmana your mouth, Ksatriya your
arms, Vaisya your thighs and Sudra your feet. 333

28. O lord Siva, you alone deserve to be adored by all
living beings. A person worshipping you certainly derives
liberation.

29. O lord, the man who forsakes . you, the favou-
rite Atman, for the adverse objects of sense, swallows poison
forsaking nectar.

30. Visnu, Brahma, the ..gods and the sages of pure
mind, in every respect resort to you, the favourite lord.

Sanatkumara said: —

31. After saying this, the Asura Bana, son of Bali
stopped with all the limbs blooming with love and bowed
to lord Siva.

32. On hearing the request of his devotee Bana, lord
Siva said "You will get everything" and vanished there
itself.

33. Then through the grace of Siva, Bana attained the
immortality of the eternal time and becoming one of the
attendants of Siva he rejoiced much.

34. Thus I have narrated by means of words pleasing
to the ears, the excellent story of the trident-bearing lord
Siva, who is the preceptor of the preceptors and who sports
about always in the middle of the worlds. His story includes
his activities in relation to Bana.

333. It refers to the fourfold classification of ancient Indian society
as mentioned in the Purusasilkta of the ligveda.

i054

Sivapurdna

CHAPTER FIFTYSEVEN

{Gajasura is slain )

Sanatkumara said: —

1. O Vyasa, listen with great devotion to the story
of moon-crested lord, how he killed Gajasura, the lord of
Danavas, by means of his trident.

2. Formerly when the Asura Mahisa 334 was killed in
battle by the goddess for the welfare of the gods, they be-
came very happy.

3-4. O great sage, his son the great hero Gajasura
could not forget the slaying of his father by the goddess at
the request of the gods and hence remembered that enmity.
He therefore went to the forest for undertaking penance.
Interestingly he performed penance meditating on Brahma.

5. "I shall not be killed by men or women over-
whelmed by lust." Thinking thus in his mind he directed his
attention to austerities.

6. He performed a severe penance in a valley on the
Himalaya mountain. He kept his arms lifted. He fixed his
eyes at the sky. He stood on the ground on the two big toes.

7. With plenty of matted tresses of hair the benevolent
Gajasura, the son of Mahisa shone with his refulgence like
the sun at the time of dissolution.

8. The fire in the form of penance originating from
his head filled with smoke spread all round to the worlds
above, below and on the sides scorching them.

9. The rivers and the seas were agitated by the fire
originating from his head. The stars fell along with the
planets. The ten quarters blazed.

10. The gods scorched by the fire left heaven and
wjmt to Brahma's world along with Indra and submitted to
him. The earth quaked.

The gods said: —

11. O Brahma, we are agitated on being scorched by

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kudrasarhhita

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the penance of Gajasura. We are unable to stay in heaven.
Hence we seek refuge in you.

12. Make it subside and find out a merciful remedy
to enliven others. Otherwise the worlds will perish. Truth.
It is the trutli that we speak.

13. Thus informed by the gods including Indra and
others the selfborn deity Brahma went to the hermitage
of the excellent Daitya along with Bhrgu, 336 Daksa 33 * and
others.

14. On seeing him scorching the heaven and the worlds
by his penance, the surprised creator laughed and said.

Brahma said: —

15. "O lord of Daityas, stand up, stand up. O son
of Mahisa, you have achieved perfection in penance. O dear
one, I, the granter of boons, have come. Choose your boon
as you wish."

Sanatkumara said : —

16. Getting up in a hurry, the son of Mahisa, the
lord of Daityas glanced at the lord and praised him lovingly
with choking words.

Gajasura said: —

17-18. O lord, O lord of the gods, if you are going
to grant me a boon let me be immune from death by men or
women overwhelmed by lust. Let me be very powerful,
valorous and invincible to the gods, the guardians of the
worlds 33 ' and others for ever. Let me enjoy all prosperities.

335. Bhrgu was a Prajapati and a great sage who pounded the race
of the Bhvgus in which Jamadagni and Parasurama were born According
to the present Purana he was the son of Brahma, born out of his heart.
(See RS I. 16.4).

336. Daksa, son of Brahma, born out of his breath (Ibid 1.16.5)
was a Prajapati. His daughter Sati was married to Siva. For details see
Ibid. II section.

337. Lokapalas are the regents of the four cardinal and four inter-
mediate points of the world. They aie :

i056

Sivapurdna

Sanatkumdra said: —

19. Thus requested by the Danava, Brahma 338 who
was delighted by his penance granted him the rare boon.

20. Securing the boons thus, the Daitya Gajasura the
son of Mahisa, returned to his abode with a happy mind.

21-22. The great Asura conquered all the quarters, the
three worlds, the gods, Asuras, human beings, kings, Gandh-
arvas, Garuda, serpents and others. He made them subser-
vient to him. He became the conqueror of the universe. He
usurped the places of the guardians of the worlds and took
away their glory.

23. He occupied heaven 339 possessing the glory of the
celestial garden and the palace of lord Indra built by
Visvakarman. 340

24. The powerful Daitya of a lofty mind who reigned
as the sole ruler after conquering all the worlds sported in
the palace of lord Indra. The gods and others who were
overwhelmed by his power worshipped the pair of his feet.
He exercised a stern and fierce authority.

25. Thus conquering the quarters and reigning as the
supreme overlord he enjoyed pleasures to the maximum
extent. Since he had not conquered his senses he was never
satiated in his enjoyment of pleasures.

26. He was haughty, puffed up with prosperity. He
slighted and transgressed the injunctions of the sacred scri-
ptures. After the lapse of some time he became evil-
minded.

27. The Danava, the suppressor of the gods, the son
of Mahisasura harassed the excellent brahmins and the sages
on the earth very much.

28. The wicked Daitya harassed the gods, the human
beings, and all the Pramathas. He tortured all righteous
people particularly recollecting the previous enmity.

29. O dear, once this Danava of great strength,

,»^'fi 338 ' ™? hm * ass " m \ d the name Satadhrti after Completing a hundred
339- Se e Note 298 P. gga.

34°- Visvakarman was the founder of the science of architecture

kudrasarhhita

Gajasura came to the capital city of Siva.

30. O sage, when the lord of Asuras came there,
there was a great tumult among the residents of Anandavana,
They shouted "Protect, Protect."

31-32. When this son of Mahisasura haughty of his
valour entered the city suppressing the Pramathas, Indra
and other gods previously vanquished by him sought refuge
in Siva. After bowing to him they eulogised him with a
great respect.

33. They mentioned to him the arrival of the Danava
at Kail, the height of distress of the people there, especially
of the rulers.

The gods said: —

34. O great gods, O lord of gods, the Asura has gone
to your city. He is inflicting pain on your people. O
storehouse of benignity, please slay him.

35. Wherever he sets foot on the earth he shakes the
ground there by his great weight.

36. By his great velocity trees fall down with roots
and branches. Hit by his brawny arms, big mountains are
reduced to powder.

37. The clouds leave the sky hit by his head. Still
they do not lose their blueness due to the contact with his
hair.

38. When he breathes out, the mighty oceans surge
up with their billows. Even the rivers are filled with waves
as though with whales.

39. His height is nine thousand Yojanas. The girth
of this Asura who wields Maya, is also of that proportion.

40. The tawny colour and the tremulousness of his
eyes is not borne even by the lightning. Thus he has come
there all of a sudden.

41. Whichever quarter he approaches, the Danava is
unbearably oppressive. "I am not to be killed by men or
women overwhelmed by lust" he shouts.

42. O lord of the gods, we have thus mentioned
humbly the activities of that Danava. Please protect your
devotees, O lord, desirous of protecting Kail.

Sivapur&nd.

Sanatkumara said: —

43. Thus requested by the gods, Siva desirous of pro-
tecting the devotees came there quickly with the desire of
slaying him.

44. On seeing that Siva, favourably disposed to his
devotees, had come roaring with the trident in his hand,
Gajasura too roared.

45. A wonderfully terrible and great battle was fought
between them roaring heroically and hitting with various
weapons and missiles.

46. The brilliant Gajasura of great strength and val-
our pierced Siva, the slayer of the Danavas, with sharp
arrows.

47. O sage, Siva who assumed a terrible body, split
with his terrible arrows, the arrows of the Daitya to small
pieces like gingelly seeds, even before they reached him.

48. Then the infuriated Gajasura rushed at the lord
Siva roaring loudly with a sword in hand "You are slain
now by me."

49. Then the lord armed with the trident, realising
that the leading Daitya who was rushing at him could not be
killed by anything else or any one else, hit him with his
trident.

50. When the trident pierced through his body, the
Daitya Gajasura thought that he was raised up like an um-
brella. He then sang the glory of Siva.

Gajasura said: —

51. O great lord, lord of the gods, I am in every
respect your devotee. O trident-bearing lord, I know you as
the lord of heaven and destroyer of Kama.

52. O enemy of Andhaka, O great lord, O slayer
of Tripuras, O omnipresent, my death at your hands is con-
ducive to my great glory.

53. I desire to submit something. O merciful lord,
please listen to it. O conqueror of death, I am speaking
the truth, not a lie. Please ponder.

54. You are the only person deserving the worship of
the worlds. You stand high above the universe. Everyone

kudrasathhita

i059

should consider a death like this conducive to glory in due
course.

Sanatkumara said: —

55. On hearing his words, lord Siva, the storehouse
of mercy, laughed and replied to Gajasura, the' son of
Mahisa.

Lord Siva said: —

56. O Gajasura, O excellent Danava, O depository of
great valour, O well-intentioned one, I am delighted. Choose
the boon favourable to you.

Sanatkumara said: —

57. On hearing the words of lord Siva, the granter
of boons, the lord of Danavas, the delighted Gajasura
replied.

Gajasura said: —

58. O nude one, if you are delighted, O lord Siva,
wear this hide of mine sanctified by the fire of your trident.

59. It is of your size, it is gentle to the touch, it has
been kept as a stake in the battlefield, it is worth seeing, it
is of divine nature and it is always pleasing.

60. Let it ever emit an agreeable smell, let it be
soft for ever, let it be ever free from dirt, let it be your best
ornament t always.

61. O lord, even after being scorched by the flames of
the fire of penance for a long time, this hide was not burnt,
hence it is the storehouse of holy fragrance.

62. O nude one, if my hide is not meritorious how did
it get into contact with your limbs in the battlefield ?

63. O Siva, if you are satisfied, please grant me
another boon. Beginning from today let your name be
Krttivasas (one clad in elephant-hide).

Sanatkumara said: —

64. On hearing his words, Siva who is favourably dis-
posed to his devotees, was pleased and replied to Gajasura,
the son of Mahisa "Let it be so".

1066

Sivapuraya

65. Lord Siva, the favourite of his devotees, be-
coming delighted spoke again to the Danava Gajasura whose
mind had been purified by devotion.

Lord Siva said: —

66. "In this holy place, a means to the achievement
of liberation, let your meritorious body become phallic image
yielding liberation to all.

67. It will be the foremost of all phallic images yield-
ing salvation, destroying great sins and named "Krttivase-
Svara".

Sanatkumara said: —

68. After saying this Siva, the lord of the gods, accep-
ted the hide of Gajasura and wore it.

69. O great sage, there was a great jubilation on that
day. All the people staying at Kasi and the Pramathas
were delighted.

70. Visnu, Brahma and other gods were delighted in
their minds. With palms joined in reverence they bowed to
lord Siva and eulogised him.

71. When Gajasura the lord of the Danavas, and
the son of Mahisa was killed, the gods returned to their
original place and the universe attained normalcy.

72. Thus I have narrated to you the story of Siva
which shows his affection to his devotees, which is conducive
to the attainment of heaven, fame and longevity and which
increases wealth and food-grains.

73. He who listens to this with devotion, or narrates *
this observing pure rites, enjoys great happiness and attains
salvation, the greatest bliss hereafter.

RudrasarhhitS ' 1061

CHAPTER FIFTYEIGHT

( Dundubhi Nirhrada is slain)

Sanatkumdra said: —

1. O Vyasa, listen. I shall narrate the story of the
moon-crested lord Siva how he slew the Daitya Dundubhi-
nirhrada. 4

2. When the Daitya Hiranyaksa, son of Diti, 341 of great
strength was killed by Visnu, Diti remained griefstricken for
a long time.

3. The wicked Daitya named Dundubhinirhrada, the
uncle of Prahlada, the oppressor of the gods, consoled the
dejected mother with the words.

4. After consoling Diti, the king of Daityas, an expert
in using Maya, began to think of the ways and means of
conquering the gods easily.

5. "The great Asura Hiranyaksa along with his brother
has been killed through Visnu by the gods, the enemies of
Daityas, employing deceitful means.

6. What is the strength of the gods ? What is their
diet ? What is their support ? How can the gods be easily
vanquished by me?" Thinking like this he tried to find out
the ways and means.

7. Thinking deeply in diverse ways the Daitya came
to the conclusion that the brahmanas were the cause of the
trouble. 842

8. The Daitya Dundubhinirhrada, the most wicked
enemy of the gods, ran after the brahmins to kill them.

9. Since the gods maintain themselves on sacrifices,
sacrifices are born of the Vedas and the Vedas are the cus-
tody of the brahmanas, so the brahmanas constitute the
strength of the gods.

34 c. Diti was the daughter of Daksa and wife of Kasyapa. Her
sons attained the designation 'Daitya' after her name.

342. The anti-Brahmana activities of the Daityas mentioned here
and elsewhere in the Puranas were due to the fact that the Brahmanas
performed sacrifices wherein offerings were made to the gods. But this*
traditidh of Brahmana — Daitya animosity is ol late origin. Originally
Daityas were devoted to Brahmanas. The Bhargavas were purohitas to
Hiranyakasipu. Vasistha was his hotr. Vrtraand Namuci, the tv\o famous
Danavas were Brahmanas themselves. For details see AIHT. Ch. XXVI.

1062

Sivapurdna

10. Gerlainly the gods including Indra are supported
by the brahmanas. The gods gain their strength from the
brahmanas. There is no doubt about this.

11. If the brahmanas are destroyed the Vedas will
perish. If they are destroyed the gods will also perish.

12-13. If the sacrifices are destroyedj the gods will lose
their food. They will grow weaker and be easily conquered.
When the gods are conquered I shall become the sole hono-
urable lord of the three worlds. I shall then confiscate the
everlasting riches of the gods.

14. I shall enjoy happiness in my kingdom freed
of thorns." After thinking like this the wicked Daitya thought
again.

15. "Where are these brahmanas in plenty — the brah-
manas strengthened by the splendour of the Brahman, well
versed in the study of the Vedas and possessing the strength
of penance ?

16. It is VaranasI indeed that is the place of many
brahmanas. I shall finish that first and then go to other holy
centres.

1 7. In holy centres or hermitages wherever these brah-
manas live they shall be devoured by me."

18. After thinking thus in accordance with the nature
of his race, Dundubhinirhrada went to KasI and he, the wicked
wielder of Mayas, killed the brahmanas.

19. When the excellent brahmanas went to the forest
to fetch sacrificial twigs and the Darbha grass, the wicked
Danava used to eat them there.

20. After that he used to lie hidden so that nobody
could detect him. In the forest he used to roam about like
a forest-dweller and in the waters he used to take the
form of an aquatic animal.

21-22. He was invisible in form. He wielded the art
of deception. He could not be seen even by the gods. Dur-
ing the day he stood in the midst of sages engaged in medi-
« tation but observing the ingress and egress of persons in the
hut. But at night he took the form of a tiger and ate many
of them.

• 23. He used to eat unhesitatingly never leaving even

Rudrasarhhita

1063

a bone behind. Thus many brahman as were annihilated by
him in this way.

24. Once on the Sivaratri 3 " 3 day a certain devotee
performed the worship of Siva, the lord of the gods and was
engaged in meditation in his own hut.

25. The lord of Daityas Dundubhinirhrada, proud of
his strength, assumed the form of a tiger and wanted to seize
him.

26. As the devotee was in meditation with a mind
concentrated on Siva and as he had fixed the Astramantra,
the Daitya could not attack him.

27. Siva, the omnipresent lord, knew his evil intention
and decided to slay the Daitya.

28. While the Daitya in the form of the tiger was
about to snatch the devotee, Siva appeared before him. The
three-eyed lord Siva is very keen in intellect in saving the
devotees, nay in protecting the universe.

29. On seeing Siva coming out of the phallic image
worshipped by the devotee, the Daitya in the form of a
tiger increased in size like a big mountain.

30. The Danava glanced with a contemptuous look at
Siva but the lord caught him and pressed him under his
armpit.

31. The five-faced lord favourably disposd to his
devotees hit the tiger on its head with his fist harder than
thunderbolt.

32. By the blow of the fist and the pressure at the
armpit the tiger groaned aloud in great distress filling heaven
and earth with the sound and died.

33. Agitated in their minds by the loud sound, the
ascetics came there in the night itself following the track of
the sound.

34. On seeing the lord there with the lord of the beasts
in his armpit they bowed to him. They eulogised him with
the words of "Victory, Victory."

343. Sivaratri or Siva-caturdasi is the fourteenth of the dark half
of Magha (January-February) on which a rigorous fast is observed during
the day and night.

1064

Sivapurana

The brahmins said: —

35. We are saved, O, we are saved from this terrible
obstacle. O lord, please bless us. O preceptor of the uni-
verse stay here alone.

36. O great lord, in this self-same form in the name of
the lord of the tiger offer protection. Let this place remain
sacred always.

37. Save us the dwellers in this holy centre from other
mishaps too. O lord of Parvati, leaving the wicked ones
offer fearlessness to your devotees.

Satralkumara said: —

38. On hearing the words of the devotees, the moon-
crested lord who is favourably disposed to the devotees said
affirmatively and told the devotees again.

Lord Siva said:-r-

39. "If any one sees me here in this form with faith, I
will undoubtedly remove his torments and mishaps.

40. After hearing this story of mine and after remem-
bering my phallic image in the heart if a man enters the
battlefield he will certainly win.

41. In the meantime the gods came there along with
Indra shouting slogans of victory jubilantly."

42. After bowing to Siva with love, the gods joined their
palms in reverence, drooped their shoulders and eulogised lord
Siva who is favourably disposed to his devotees.

The gods said: —

43. O lord Siva, lord of the gods, remover of the dis-
tress of your devotees, be victorious. We the gods have been
saved by killing this demon.

44. O fond of devotees, you shall protect them always.
O lord of the gods, wicked men shall be slain by you, O
lord of all.

45. On hearing these words of the gods, lord Siva
became delighted. After saying 'yes 5 he merged into the
phallic image.

46. The gods, thus surprised returned to their respec-

Rudrasamhita

1065

tive abodes and rejoiced. The brahmins too in great delight
returned the way they came.

47-48. He who reads this sacred narrative about the
origin of the lord of the tiger, hears, narrates or teaches this
shall obtain all desires. After death he will attain salvation
becoming free of all miseries.

49. This narrative is incomparable as it contains the
nectar-like words of the divine sports of Siva. It is condu-
cive to the attainment of heaven, fame and longevity. It
increases sons and grandsons.

50. It yields great devotion and bliss. It is auspicious
and increases the pleasure of Siva. It yields supreme know
ledge. It is beautiful and removes all aberrations.

CHAPTER FIFTYNINE

(Vidala and Utpala are slain)

Sanatkumdra said: —

1 . O Vyasa, listen with pleasure to the story of the
great lord how he killed through his beloved a Daitya
whom he indicated-by a sign.

2. Formerly there were two great Daityas — Vidala
and Utpala. They were great heroes, puffed up by the boon
from Brahma that they could not be slain by a man.

3. O Brahmin, the gods had been defeated in the
battle by the two Daityas who by the strength of their arms
considered the people of the three worlds as insignificant as
the blade of grass.

4. Defeated by them, the gods sought refuge in Brahma.
After bowing to him duly they submitted to him respectfully.

5-6. On hearing their account Brahma said. "They will
surely be slain by the goddess. Be bold. Remember Siva and
Parvati respectfully. Siva is auspicious, benevolent favourably
disposed to his devotees. The supreme god will bring about
welfare ere long."

1066

Sivapurana

Sanatkumara said: —

7. After saying this, Brahma kept quiet remembering
Siva. The gods too returned to their respective abodes
rejoicingly.

8. Then at the behest of Siva, the celestial sage Narada
went to the abode of the Daityas and sang the glory of the
beauty of Parvati,

9. On hearing his words the two Daityas were delud-
ed by deception. Afflicted by the god of lust they desired
to abduct the goddess.

10. They thought to themselves where and when they
would obtain Parvati at the rise of their good fortune.

11-12. Once &iva was engaged in sports. Parvati too
was playing with a ball along with her friends in the pre-
sence of Siva.

13. At times she looked up. At times she displayed
the lightness of limbs. At times when she took deep breaths,
bees hovered round her enticed by the fragrance. At times
the bees made her eyes agitated.

14. Flowers from her tresses fell on the gronnd in
front of her. Her cheeks were perspiring. Drops of sweat
dripping from the paintings on her cheek brightened up.

15. The lustre of her body spread all round through
the partings of her gown. By exerting her too much in
beating the ball her red hand became redder than the red
lotus,

16-17. When the ball bounced, her eyes too followed
it making the brows to dance thereby. As the goddess
mother of the universe was playing, she was seen by the
Daityas who were going by the aerial path. They were, as
it were, held in the lap by the imminent death.

18. They were the Daityas Vidala and Uptala who
had become haughty by the boon of Brahma and by the
might of their arms thought the people of the three worlds
as insignificant as the blades of grass. 3 * 4

19. Desirous of abducting the goddess as they were

tormented by the god of lust, they descended from the sky

quickly after adapting the Sambari magic skill.

344- This verse is th? repetition of fragments of verses a and 3 of
this chapter.

Rudrasarhhita

1067

20. The two wicked ones of fickle mind approached
ParvatI in the guise of Siva's attendahts.

21. By the excessive tremulousness of their eyes they
were in a trice recognized by Siva, the chastiser of and con-
temptuous towards the wicked.

22. The lord shot a significant glance at ParvatI the
destroyer of miseries denoting that they wereDaityas and not
Ganas. They could assume any form.

23. O dear, she understood the sign of the eyes of her
lord Siva, the great lord who indulges in fancies.

24. Realising the significant glance, the goddess, the
sharer of half the body of Siva 345 hit both of them simul-
taneously with the ball.

25. The powerful wicked Dait- y as hit by the ball
whirled and whirled and fell on the ground.

26-27. After making the two Daityas fall like two ripe
fruits from the palmyra tree when shaken by the wind, or
like the two peaks of a great mountain struck by the thun-
derbolt, as they had attempted to do an evil action, the
ball changed itself into the phallic image.

28. That phallic image came to be known as
Kandukesvara. It is very near JyesthesVara. It removes all
the wicked things.

29. At the same time, knowing the manifestation of
Siva, Visriu. Brahma, other gods and the sages came there.

30. Then all the gods received boons from Siva and
at his bidding returned to their respective abodes delightedly.
So were the residents of Kasi blessed with the boons.

31. On seeing Siva with ParvatI they bowed to him
with palms joined in reverence and eulogised him with devo-
tion and pleasing words.

32. O Vyasa, Siva and ParvatI too, went delightedly
to their abode. The 'lord favourably disposed to his devotees,
an expert in divine sports, had already had his game.

33. The Kandukesvara phallic image at Kasl destroys
the wicked, yields worldly pleasures and salvation. Upon the
good it bestows desires always.

345. In the Ardhanarisvara form of Siva, Parvati occupies one half
and &va the other half. The form suggests the divine origin of men and
women •

1068

Sivapurana

34. Where is the cause of fear to him who hears this
incomparable narrative with joy, narrates or reads it?

35. He enjoys pleasures of various kinds and of excellent
nature. Hereafter he attains the divine goal inaccessible even
to the gods.

36. O dear, I have thus narrated to you the wonderful
story of Siva "and Parvati, It indicates their favouritism to
the devotees. It bestows welfare to the good.

Brahma said: —

37. After narrating the story of the moon-crested lord,
my excellent son, Setnatkumara took leave of Vyasa. Duly
honoured by him he then went to Kas"! by the aerial path.

38. Thus the section dalled "Yuddha" has been nar-
rated to you, O excellent sage. In the Compendium called
Rudra, it bestows all cherished desires.

39. Thus the whole of Rudrasamhita. has been explain-
ed by me. It is pleasing to Siva always. It yields enjoyment
here and liberation hereafter. :

40. The man who reads this Sariihita. that wards off
harassment from enemies shall attain all desires. Thereafter
he shall attain liberation.

Suta said: — .

41. Thus Brahma's son Narada heard from his father
the great glory of Siva. Satanama too was satisfied and be-
came a follower of Siva.

42. I have completely narrated the conversation bet-
ween Brahma and Narada. Siva is the most important of
all deities. What else do you wish to hear about him?

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