Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 25

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –86  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 25

 

Lord Rama speaks to Devi Sati “Oh! Devi, once the supreme Lord Mahadeva invited Vishwakarma who is an eminent architect of deities and ordered him to build a beautiful palace.  Soon a magnificent palace was built near the Dhenushala/cowshed and an attractive gem-studded throne were positioned in the grand hall, adorned with the statues of lions, the throne was decorated with colorful Chathram, and the portrait of Ganesha imprinted on it. Lord Shambhu invited all the deities and Lord Indra with their consorts, Siddhas, Gandharvas, celestial Apsaras, Naga, preceptors, Rishis, and Sages, arrived with various gifts. Sixteen Kanyakas/little girls were reverentially received by the deities, Rishis, Sages, Sidhdhas, and Nagas. There were divine musical instruments echoed in the atmosphere, there were huge celebrations were organized, huge verities of herbs and auspicious ingredients were procured for the performance of Vedic rite, five pots of water from the sacred Theertha was collected, the whole atmosphere reverberated with the Vedic chants. Lord Mahadeva meditated upon Lord Vishnu and invited him to take part in the festivities, was received with great reverence and delight, the magnificent throne in the Bhramandamandapa was offered to Lord Vishnu.  The deities adorned him with a marvelous crown, and Lord Mahadeva delightfully performed the ablution of Lord Vishnu with the Theertha collected from the sacred rivers. Further, various precious gifts were offered to Lord Vishnu.  The supreme Lord Mahadeva who is independent and subservient to his devotees, spoke to Lord Bhrama and the deities “Oh! Deities and Sages, Lord Hari is Lokesha, he will perform the task of preservation of the Universe and its living beings, therefore, we all should abide by the rules and regulations implemented by Lord Hari, even though the sacred Veda eulogizes me and Lord Hari as the commander of Universe and its living beings; we shall offer salutation to that supreme Lord Hari.”

 

Rama speaks “Oh! Devi, thus Lord Rudra and deities offered salutation to that Lord Garudadhvaja who was highly pleased with the gestures of the deities and Rudra, offered various boons to them.  Further, Lord Bhrama, deities, Rishis and Sages, prostrated before Lord Hari and eulogized him.”

 

Mahesha speaks “Oh! Bhagavan, Oh! Jagadheesha, Oh! Jagathpoojya, you are the creator, preserver, and destroyer of the Universe and its living beings, you are the purifier of souls, and you are the provider of Dharma, Artha, and the Kama to the Jeeva. Oh! Mahabalaparakrama, you are worshiped by all; you are valorous and unconquerable in the battlefields, Oh! Bhagavan kindly accepts the Shakthithrayam from me, you will be performing various passionate sports for the welfare of the universe and its living beings, and your glorious myth will be praised in the three worlds. Oh! Vishno, I shall promise you to destroy your enemies, and liberate your passionate devotees. Oh! Bhagavan, kindly accept the Maya who is so powerful and unconquerable in the three worlds. Oh! Hari, there is no difference between you and me, Lord Bhrama initiated from my right limb and you are the creator of the lotus born Bhramam, you will be the preserver and I am Rudra will perform the task of the deluge at the end of Yuga.  You are worshiped by all of us. Oh! Hari, kindly carry out the function of protection of the Universe residing in this magnificent abode built near the Dhenushala, and perform various passionate sports and assume numerous forms at intervals. This magnificent abode would be known as Goloka, which will have all the auspiciousness and fortune, all your incarnations would speak and praise by my devotees, with the grace of me.”  Lord Rama speaks to Devi Sati “Oh! Devi, Thus Lord Mahadeva who is Umapathi offered an abundance of fortune to Lord Hari and left to the secluded place in Mount Kailash with all his attendants. Further, Lakshmisha/Lakshmipathi, Lord Vishnu personified as a cowherd in the Goloka, he is the Lord of cows, cowherds, and young maiden of cowherds performed various amusements in the Goloka. Lord Vishnu assumed various forms to protect the Universe and its living beings, at the command of Lord Shiva. I have assumed the form of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha, Shathrughna at the instruction of that Lord Shiva to protect the noble souls and the Universe. Oh! Devi Sati, I have arrived in the Dhandakaranya as a promise to my father, King Dharashatha of Ayodhya. Devi Sita, Lakshmana accompanied with me to the forest, unfortunately, Devi Sita was abducted by a demon, we are in search for her, I am confident that your presence and compassionate grace would bring auspiciousness and welfare to us. It is certain that we will locate Devi Sita and win over the demon, we both are highly fortunate, we have met you here in the dense forest and have a word with you.” Lord Rama and Lakshmana repeatedly prostrated before the virtuous Devi Sati and proceeded to the dense wood. Goddess Sati was immensely pleased with the devotion of Rama to Lord Mahadeva, she meditated upon the lotus feet of Parameshwara, felt ashamed of her disbelief in the words of Parameshwara, she was extremely distressed, could not control tears, and returned to Lord Shiva who was seated under the shade of Banyan tree, while returning, Devi Sita thought “I have committed a grave sin by disbelieving Lord Parameshwara, I did not trust the words of Parameshwara, thought ill of Rama who was lamenting like an ordinary Jeeva in the forest, at the grief of separation from his dearest consort Devi Sita. What would I say to Lord Shiva?” she was extremely disappointed at her behavior, returned to Lord Shiva, and prostrated before him. Lord Shiva enquired her about the test on Rama, but she was quiet, frightened to reveal the truth before him, she felt extremely painful and shattered in her conduct.  The Mahayogi immersed in Dhyana and understood all that happened with Devi Sati, and the conversation took place with Lord Rama. The protector of Dharma, Lord Mahadeva took a vow in his heart, instantly abandoned Devi Sati from his thoughts. The supreme Lord Mahadeva who is the essence of Veda, dispassionate to worldly matters and bondage, abandoned Devi Sati and protected the Dharma/vow. Devi Sati and Lord Parameshwara returned to Himalaya, in utter silence, Bhagavan did not reveal the promise he has taken to Devi Sati. Soon, a divine voice heard in the sky “Oh! Parameshana, you are an excellent Yogi, you are Mahayogi, you are Mahaprabhu, and no one can excel the virtues of you. Oh! Prabho, you have taken a great promise to protect the Dharma.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Narada, the divine voice caught the attention of Devi Sati and enquired about the ‘promise’ of Lord Shiva was not revealed to her. The compassionate Lord Mahadeva did not reveal the ‘vow’ he has taken in the presence of Lord Vishnu at the time of marriage with Devi Sati. Shortly, Devi Sati undertook meditation and found that the supreme Yogi and her dearest consort Lord Mahadeva has abandoned her heartily, it pushed her into deep distress. The supreme Lord Mahadeva understood Devi Sati is ashamed and completely shattered at the consequence of disbelieving the Paramthma, soon he began to describe marvelous legends to cheer her. Lord Mahadeva undertook Yogasana for several years in mount Kailash, during this period of time; Devi Sati spent days in extreme agony and grief in his absence. Oh! Mahamune, Lord Mahadeva, and Devi Sati spend several years in meditation and austerities, Lord Shiva describes marvelous legends from the scriptures to Devi Sati who was seated as a disciple in front of him. Thus, the benevolent Lord lived with Devi Sati and well protected his vow, some say that Lord Shiva separated Devi Sati from him, how it would be possible? It was a sport of that supreme Lord and his female Shakthi which is beyond perception. Shiva and Shakthi are inseparable, like the words and their meanings.”

 

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –85  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 24

 

Maharishi Narada speaks “ Oh! Bhraman, Oh! Vidhe, Oh! Prajanatha, Oh! Kripakara, Oh! Mahaprajja, you have brilliantly explained the legend of Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati which provides an abundance of piousness kindly continue to describe the various sports of the divine couple.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Mune, you are the fortunate one, you have enthusiastically listened to those glorious legends of Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati. I have heard from the illustrious Sages spoke about that Mahadevi who is inseparable from the Lord has to undergo the pain of separation from the Lord. Shiva and Shakthi are inseparable, then how could they get separated? The divine couple sported like an ideal Grihastha had to separate from each other. Devi Sati had to self-immolate in the Yogagni in a grand Yaga of her father Dhakshaprajapathi, who humiliated the supreme Lord Mahadeva. Further, Devi Sati took birth as Devi Parvathi, the daughter of Mount Himavan and undertook severe austerities and penances, ultimately achieved the supreme Lord Mahadeva as her wedded husband.”

 

Maharishi Narada speaks “Oh! Vishnushishya, Oh! Mahabhaga, Oh! Vidhe, kindly narrate the cause for the differences between Lord Shiva and Devi Sati, why did that Lord Mahadeva who is inseparable from his consort, full of love for Devi Sati abandoned her? How did he separate from Devi Sati who was dear to his life? Why did Dhakshaprajapathi humiliate Lord Shiva? What was that compelled Devi Sati to sacrifice her in the Yoga Agni? What happened to Lord Mahadeva after this tragic incident? Kindly narrate all that to me; I am eager to listen about all those incidents.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Thatha, Oh! Narada, you are best among the learned and dearest to me. I shall narrate the glorious legend of Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati; you can be seated among those illustrious Sages and listen to me carefully. I shall offer my humble salutation to Lord Vishnu and all the deities and Sages who worship Lord Mahadeva, I shall narrate the glorious myths of that supreme Bhramam Lord Mahadeva who has Saguna and Nirgunaswaroopa. He is inseparable from Devi Sati, he is supreme Bhramam, he is Eshwara resides as a soul in living beings, he is Gireesha who is worshiped by deities, Lord Vishnu, Sages and Rishis, Siddhas, and Sanakadhis. The serpent Anantha sings in praise of that supreme Lord Mahadeva, who represents the highest of the philosophies, all-pervasive Bhramam. Once, Lord Mahadeva and Sati mounted on the celestial bull and conducted a journey all over the Earth, arrived in the dense forest of Dhandakaranya. Bhagavan introduced the dense and beautiful forest of Dhandakaranya to Devi Sati. In the meantime, Lord Sri Ramachandra along with Lakshman was in rigorous search of Devi Sita in the forest, without the knowledge of Ravana abducted Devi Sita. Lord Rama who was desperate, in extreme agony and pain of separation from his wife, moved through the dense forest, enquiring the trees, creepers, birds, watercourses, animals, etc. the whereabouts of Devi Sita. Rama was utterly grieving over the separation from his beloved wife, portrayed himself as an ordinary human being, and forgot of his birth in the illustrious clan of Raghu, born in the clan of Surya Dynasty, as a son to the valorous Emperor Dhasharatha and elder brother to Bharatha, Lakshman, and Shatrughana. The compassionate Lord Shiva offered humble salutation, cheering ‘Hail to that Lord Sri Ramachandra” who was walking all over the dense wood of Dhandakaranya in search of Devi Sita. Suddenly, Devi Sati took notice of Lord Shiva who was reverentially greeting Lord Rama, and she was completely surprised by this act and began to speak “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Parambhrama, Oh! Sarvesha, Oh! Parameshwara, you are the Lord of Lords, all the deities serve you and offer their humble salutation. You are eulogized by Veda and Vedantha, all the Sidhdhas and Sages contemplate upon you and undertake extreme penances to achieve you, and you are Paramaprabhu who is beyond attributes. Oh! Bhagavan, these two youths are looking miserable to me, grieving over the separation of someone close to their heart, and they are in search of their lost one in the forest. The one youth has beautiful cloud complexion, lotus-like eyes, I have a doubt to clarify with you, and who is he? Whom do you offer salutation? Oh! Shankara, kindly remove my qualms, I have not seen the Master offer obeisance to servants, and you did that.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “ Devi Adi shakti, Sathi, ShivA, Parameshwari, who was completely besieged in the Shivamaya.  Devi Sathi who is an inseparable female force, Parameshwari was overpowered by the Maya of that Lord enquired the reason for offering salutation to Lord Rama who is the son of Emperor Dhasharatha of Ayodhya. Bhagavan Parameshwara understood the dilemma of Devi Sati, smilingly replied to her “Oh! Devi Sati, Oh! Priye, listen to me carefully, I have offered salutation to that Paramathma Parambhramam  Lord Vishnu who was incarnated in the illustrious clan of Raghu, as the son of Dhasharatha, the elder one is Rama who has dark cloud complexion, the younger brother is Lakshmana who is the personification of Adishesha. They have personified on the Earth for the protection of noble souls and welfare of the Universe and its people.” Lord Shiva immersed in deep silence, but Devi Sati could not understand the truth behind it, because she was completely under the clutches of powerful Maya of the Lord that does not spare the three worlds. The supreme Lord Mahadeva understood the strange situation of Devi Sati, and spoke “Oh! Priye, Oh! Devi, I have understood that you are not convinced with my answers, if you want you can take a test on that Paramathma Parambhramam personified as Rama, kindly proceed to test him with your knowledge. All I want you should get cleared your qualms.” Lord Shiva quietly moved towards a Banyan tree, took a seat beneath it and immersed in meditation.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Vathsa, Devi Sati proceeds at the command of Lord Shiva to test Rama, but she was all confused about how to conduct a test on Rama? She has decided to assume the form of Devi Sita and approach Rama so that she could understand the real nature of him. Devi Sati who was already besieged under the Maya of Lord Mahadeva assumed the form of Devi Sita and appeared before Rama.  Rama took notice of Devi Sati and spoke “Oh! Devi, Oh! Maheshani, why are you alone in the dense forest? Where is Lord Mahadeva? Why did you assume the form of Devi Sita? What was the reason behind it?”. Devi Sati was taken aback and lost consciousness for a while, listening to the kind words of Lord Rama, immediately she was plunged into a deep sense of guilt and shame. Devi Sati assumed her real form and offered salutation to Lord Vishnu, contemplating upon the lotus feet of supreme Lord Mahadeva, spoke “ Lord Shiva with me and Ganas took an extensive journey through the Earth, finally arrived in this forest. Lord Mahadeva saw you grieving over the separation from Devi Sita, offered his salutation to you, and praised the virtues of you and Devi Mahalakshmi. He took a seat under the Banyan tree, was highly pleased to watch your personification as Rama and Lakshmana. I was besieged under the Maya of that Lord; I could not believe his words, so I have come to take a test on you at his command. Oh! Mahamathe, all my queries and qualms have vanished, how did that supreme Lord Mahadeva immensely devoted to you? Kindly explain to me for the welfare of the Universe and its people.” Oh! Vathsa, Rama’s lotus-like eyes shone like the freshly blown lotus flower, after listening to the words of Devi Sati, soon he was transported to the state of bliss contemplating upon that supreme Lord Mahadeva.”

 

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –84  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 23 – Bhakti Prabhava Varnnanam

 

Shravanam Keerthanam Chaiva Smaranam Sevanam Thadha| Dhasyam Thadharchanam Devi Vandhanam Mama Sarvadha||

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Mune, thus the divine couple Lord Shiva and Devi Sati spend blissful married life for a long time, eventually, she has become less interested in passionate sports. One day, Devi Sati reverentially prostrated before supreme Lord Mahadeva and requested with folded hands “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Mahadeva, Oh! Karunasagara, Oh! Prabho, Oh! Dheenodhdhara, Oh! Mahayogin, kindly shower your compassionate grace on me. Oh! Paramapurusha, Oh! Swami, you are beyond Rajas, Thamas and Sathvika/Triguna, you have Saguna and Nirgunaswaroopa as well, Oh! Mahaprabhu, you are Sarvasakshin/reside as a soul in the Jeeva, all-pervasive, and pure. I am fortunate to become your consort and take part in various passionate sports. Oh! Bhagavan, Oh! Bhakthavathsala, you have most benevolent, showered your grace by accepting me as your consort. Oh! Natha, you have pleased me with various amorous sports, Oh! Maheshana, I am contented in my marital life, Oh! Devadevesha, I would like to learn the supreme Thaththva, Oh! Hara, so that the Jeeva could cross the unfathomable ocean of worldly existence, which is nothing but miseries and sorrows, that leads to vicious cycles of rebirths.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Mune, Devi Sati earnestly appealed to Lord Shankara, to describe the highly confidential philosophy which could protect the Jeeva from the cycles of rebirths and provides eternal bliss/Moksha/a state which is free from miseries and sorrows. Bhagavan who was immersed in the Yogic practices affectionately spoke to Devi Sati. “Oh! Devi, Oh! Dhakshayani, Oh! Maheshwari, listen to me carefully; I shall explain those highly confidential supreme philosophies which could liberate the Jeeva from the miseries and sorrows of the worldly existence. Oh! Parameshwari, the knowledge of the all-pervasive supreme Bhramam is the superior knowledge, Oh! Priye, the Jeeva rarely gets to know that knowledge of ‘Athman’ resides as a soul in them, I am the sincere servant of that supreme Bhramam. The devotion to that supreme Bhramam provides eternal bliss and liberation from the vicious cycles of rebirth. The devotion and the knowledge of that Bhramam can be achieved only with the grace of me. The supreme wisdom and devotion have no difference, the Jeeva who have pure devotion achieves the knowledge as well as perpetual happiness, and hence Bhakti is the supreme tool to achieve the bliss. Oh! Devi, I am always compassionate to my devotees, I am not impartial to my devotees, and I easily get pleased with the devotion. Oh! Devi, there are two types of devotion, Anyabhakthi, and Anannyabhakthi/unconditional/natural devotion, further, it is divided into six, hence the division of Bhakti continues. Oh! Ume, Oh! Priye, Oh! Dhakshaje, I shall describe the nine folds of Bhakti, listen to them carefully. The nine types of Bhakti are 1) Shravanam/listening to the scriptures, glorious legends of supreme Lord 2) Keerthanam/sing in praise of Lord 3) Smaranam/contemplation upon that all-pervasive supreme Bhramam which is free from attributes 4) Sevanam/worship of the supreme Lord and serve the devotees of Lord 5) Dhasyam/service to Lord and devotees of the Lord as a sincere servant, complete surrender with perfect self-control, 6) Archana/worship of the deity and performance of Shodashaupachara to that supreme Lord 7) Vandhanam/meditation upon that supreme Lord Mahadeva with particular gestures, and recitation of Manthra touching the limbs. 8) Sakhyam is another kind of devotion, considering the supreme Lord as a constant companion, 9) Athmasamarppanam is another way of pleasing the deity. Oh! Devi, these nine types of devotion would provide eternal bliss, fearlessness, serenity, and liberation from the cycles of birth and death. Oh! Devi, these nine types of Bhakti/Navadhabhakthi would bestow devotion, and knowledge of that supreme Bhramam to Jeeva, they enjoy worldly pleasures without getting attached to it and attain salvation. Oh! Priye, offering the bale leaves in the veneration would highly please me, the devotion would keep the Jeeva from the interest in worldly matters and get detached to it, and I dearly love the devotee who has immense devotion and faith in me. Oh! Deveshi, there is no superior method to achieve that Paramathma Parambhramam/me, other than Bhakti, therefore the pure devotion is considered as significant in the four Yugas. In the Kali era, the Bhakti/pure devotion provides all that yearned/Athmagnana and salvation to the Jeeva. Oh! Devi, the Gnana/wisdom and Vairagya/renunciation would grow old in the Kali era; the Jeeva could achieve that wisdom/Paramathma Parambhramam and detachment only with the practice of pure devotion. Oh! Devi, in the Kali era, the practice of devotion would provide all the desired by the Jeeva, I am subservient to my devotees, I will not leave my devotees in distress and troubles, I will not leave my devotees undergo miseries and sorrows of worldly existence, protect them from enemies or create obstructions to them. Oh! Devi, it was Kamadeva who created an obstruction to my Tapasya got burned down to ashes, I have destroyed the ‘Kala’ who chased after my sincere devotee. Oh! Devi, I have fought with that Lord Surya for my devotee, I have abandoned Ravana for the sake of my devotee Rama, and I have protected the Kashi and the Vedic Bhramins from the threat. Oh! Deveshi, I am always subservient to my devotees.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Mune, Devi Sati felt immensely delighted listening to Lord Mahadeva about the description of the significance of Bhakti, she reverentially prostrated before him. Devi Sati requested Lord Shiva to explain the legends from the scriptures, Manthras, Yantra, and Shastras. The Mahayogin the supreme Lord Shiva described all that Devi Sati wanted to know from him, thus Bhagavan beautifully narrated various legends from the Purana to Jagadamba Parameshwari, Jagathjanani. Lord Mahadeva explained the Varna/Bhraman, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra, and the  Ashrama Dharma/Bhramacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, and Sanyasa, also explained the duties involved in the four Ashram and Varnna and the duties of the King, children, wives, etc. Bhagavan Parameshwara explained the benefits of observance of Varnna and Ashramadharma, and details of Samudhrikalakshmanam, and many more. In this way, the divine couples spend beautiful hours discussing the various Shastras, Puranas, and subjects of various topics/64 art forms, etc. and happily sported in the hills of Kailash and Himalaya.”

 

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –83  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 22

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “ Oh! Vathsa, Devi Sati/Dhakshathanaya, and Lord Mahadeva spent joyful days in the beautiful valley of Mount Himalaya for some time.  Once, Devi Sati watching the thickly packed dark clouds spoke to Mahadeva “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Mahadeva, Oh! Shambho, Oh! Pranavallabha, kindly listen to my words, Oh! Natha, the rainy season/Varsha Rithu has arrived, all the ten directions are covered with thick rain clouds, the winds have become harsh, and the shower of snow on the Kadamba trees causes to destroy. The deafening noises of thunder, heavy downpour, and brimming water in the ponds, lake, river, and streams disturbs the serenity of the mind. The heavily formed dark clouds do not reveal the moon or sun, it is impossible to find the difference between the day and night, and it keeps the mind gloomy and depressed. Oh! Shankara, the heavy downpour, lashing wind and the thunderstorms, lightning is causing anguish in the minds of the Jeeva, Oh! Bhagavan, the huge trees are dancing in the powerful wind, it frightens the fearful and causing delight in passionate people.  Oh! Bhagavan, the heavy rain clouds appears leaving a silver line in the sky, river Yamuna is brimming with water, Oh! Eshwara, the golden ornaments adorned on my wrists and arm shining like Badavagni in the darkness. Oh! Virupaksha, the rainy season causes new plants to emerge all over the Earth, Mandarachala looks marvelous with those freshly sprung up plants and medicinal herbs. The red and white color of the sky all over Mount Mandharachal close to Himalaya looks stunning, there are large numbers of beautiful trees with fragrant flowers and Kimshuka loaded with flowers with no fragrance, in the same way, Goddess Mahalakshmi resides with the noble as well as wicked in the Kali era. The peacock beautifully dancing on the Mandharachala watching the rain clouds, the pleasing sounds of Chathaka is reverberating all over the hills, the continuous rainfall causing trouble to passersby and the pathways are getting destroyed. Oh! Bhagavan, the hailstorm causing pain to the peacock and Chathaka those were delightfully waited for the arrival of a light shower, Alas! Watching the distress of them, the swans started moving towards the Manasalake on the mountain top. Oh! Bhagavan, the Kaka/crow, and Chakora have started building nests and taking shelter in it, how could you live peacefully without a shelter? Oh! Bhagavan, I am extremely frightened, kindly arrange for a place to stay safe. You can choose either Kailasa or Himadhri, or Mahakoshayamaya/Kashi.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “ Oh! Mune, Lord Shiva started laughing listening to the nectar-like words of Paramba Bhagavathi, Jagathjanani, Jaganmatha. The entire place got illuminated with the delight and laugh of that supreme Lord who is adorned in the crescent moon on the beautiful matted hair locks. Further, Lord Mahadeva spoke affectionately to Devi Sati “Oh! Manohare, Oh! Pranapriye, I shall construct a beautiful palace for you that would be beyond the reach of clouds. These Himalayan clouds reach the middle region during the rainy season and extend up to the feet of Mount Kailash Oh! Devi, the clouds of Balahaka touches Sumeru and the top of the hills, the Pushkaravarthaka clouds reaches up to the root of Jambhumoolam. I have explained to you about the traveling destination of the clouds, now you have to decide where you want to live. The beautiful birds of Anilavrinda with golden feathers dwells in the mount Himalaya have a sweet and high singing tone that would please you while you sport. It is the place where the Sidhdhaganas lives, they would adorn you with various fresh alluring flowers and offer gem decorated throne. The Phaneedhrakanya/Nagakanya, Girikanya/tribal women, Naga Kanya/girls living on the hilltop, and young maiden of Kinnaras would accompany you to walk around the places. The beautiful Apsaras who are constantly staring at your beauty and praising your loveliness are yearning to serve you. Devi Menaka, the beautiful wife of Himavan is eagerly waiting to meet you at the Mount Himavan with surprises. The honorable housewives from the illustrious clan living in the Mount Himalaya would please you with their advice, even though you do not require any, Oh! Priye, would you like to visit the rich and beautiful place, with the reverberating melodious sounds of cuckoos, a place of the spring season? Or would you like to visit Himalaya which is known as King of Mountains, with lots of beautiful lakes, streams, rivers, and ponds, filled with lotus flowers, the place of origin of Kalpavruksha/wish-fulfilling tree, lush green land, beautiful flowering plants, trees, creepers, and herbs, where the elephants, horses, and herd of cow explore delightfully. In the Himalaya all the wild animals live in complete harmony, it is the place of illustrious Rishis and Sages who constantly engage in their spiritual practices. It is the abode of deities; you could witness beautiful antelopes and deer. There are beautiful peaks of gold, silver, and crystals, and there are Manasarovar and many more lakes with sweet nectar-like water. You could see a cluster of the fully blossomed golden lotus flowers studded with gems, and there are wild aquatic animals like crocodiles, sharks, tortoise, etc. Oh! Deveshi, you could see beautiful blue lotus flowers of rich fragrances, there are beautiful lush lands, trees, and creepers. The cluster of saffron flowers, adds the taste and fragrance of the lake waters. ”

 

Devi Sati after listening to Lord Mahadeva, began to speak softly “Oh! Prabho, I would like to live with you in the Himadhri, hence you kindly arrange to build a palace.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Vathsa, Lord Shiva was highly pleased with the suggestion of Devi Sati, they together went to the peak of Himalaya. The place where Sidhdhaganas live in large numbers undergo penance and austerities, illustrious householders undertake spiritual and religious rites, there is a number of Lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, loaded with golden lotus flowers, and an abundance of flowering trees, creepers, and plants. The snow-covered mountain looked majestic, surrounded by lush green lands, small peaks, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, etc. The whole atmosphere was serene other than the melodious sounds of the birds; there were clusters of blue and white lotus flowers, the buzzing of honey bees, a large number of swans, Chathaka, peacock, Kadamba, and Chakravaha. The sweet sound of cuckoo echoed all over the hills, was the residing place of Sidhdhaganas, Ashwamukhas, Guhyakas, and celestial Apsaras, Vidhyadharas, Kinnaras, damsels,  and Girikanyaka.  The young maiden of damsels was playing the flute, tambourine, kettle drums to entertain Devi Sati, the entire Himalaya appeared beautiful with the presence of the young and attractive Kanyakas, and rich natural beauty. The divine couple settled in this magnificent peak for ten thousand years and performed various passionate sports. At intervals, Lord Shiva conducted a visit to Mount Sumeru which is the dwelling place of deities, lived in isolation and performed Tapasya and austerities, and return to be with his lovely wife. The couples were so intimate and inseparable from each other forgot their presence and austerities; they were completely in love with each other, stood in watching each other’s faces like Chakora birds.”

 

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter –82  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 21

 Maharishi Narada speaks “ Oh! Sarvajja, Oh! Sinless one, the legend of supreme Lord Shiva and Devi Sati is highly auspicious, I feel highly delighted listening to your brilliant explanation on the glories of that supreme Lord Mahadeva. The reading and listening to the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Devi would remove false conception, it provides supreme knowledge, and fulfills all the desires of the Jeeva. Oh! Mahaprajja, I could not control the yearning to listen to the glorious legends of that supreme Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati which is beyond comparison and words, therefore kindly continue to narrate them.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “ Oh! Mune, Oh! Saumya, I shall explain the various legends of that compassionate Lord Mahadeva, listen to me carefully. Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati who is Jagathjanani, Jaganmatha, Paramba, Bhagavathi, mounted on the celestial bull after all the auspicious wedding rites got over, and returned to the Mount Kailash along with the Ganas. Oh! Devarshi, the Ganas retired to their own caves and living places leaving Lord Mahadeva and new bride Devi Sati together, with a promise to return to their call. The valorous Vamadeva and the Ganas retired to their own caves, leaving the newly wedded couple alone. Lord Mahadeva who is extremely passionate, made flower garlands of various fresh alluring flowers and adorned on the beautiful neck of Devi Sati.  Bhagavan engaged in various passionate sports with Devi Sati, adorned her marvelous earrings, and applied red lac on the red lotus-like feet of Jagathjanani, Bhagavathi, Paramba. Lord Mahadeva closely watched her beauty and admired her loveliness, whispered sweet nectar-like words appreciating her exquisiteness. Bhagavan did not leave a single moment away from the lovely Devi Sati, he played hide and seek with that Jagathjanani, taking her in a state of supreme ecstasy. Bhagavan engaged in various amorous sports with the Mother of The universe in solitude, and the couple presented flawless Jagathpitha and Jaganmatha before the Ganas. The couple remained intimate to each other and inseparable, they together took a long stroll through the beautiful lush green beautiful lands of Himalaya, they took great pleasure in the rich natural beauty of streams, ponds, and lake loaded with freshly bloomed lotus flowers, dense forest, etc. The arrival of the divine couple enhanced the beauty of the valley, the rich trees of Palasha, Sala, sandalwood, Nagakesara, mango, and creepers were loaded flowers and fruits in the Vasantharithu, the buzzing of honey bees, chirping of various species of birds, multiplied the loveliness of Himalaya, there was a cool breeze carrying rich and fragrant aroma, the couple spent a long time in the beautiful valley in solitude. The couple took extreme pleasure in each other’s company. Bhagavan performed the duties of a flawless Grihastha made all efforts to keep his wife happy, with his loving glances, amusing talks, pleasant smiles, and excellent conversations.  Thus, Bhagavan became inseparable from the Devi, appeared as a Mahadhanthi fastened with the rope. In this way, the divine couple spent twenty-five years in the beautiful mountain of the Himalayas and engaged in various passionate sports.”

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –81  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 20

 

Maharishi Narada speaks “Oh! Bhraman, Oh! Vidhe, Oh! Mahabhaga, Oh! Shivabhaktha, Oh! Varaprabho, you have narrated a brilliant story emphasizes the benevolence of the Supreme Lord Rudra. Oh! Prabho, kindly describe the marvelous sport of Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati which could remove all the sins of the Jeeva.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Munisaththama, Lord Shiva is always compassionate to his devotees.  Lord Vishnu calmed down that Lord Shiva who was in an extreme fury, soon all the deities and Sages got relieved from anxiousness and the peace was restored. All the deities and Sages with folded hands praised the endless mercy of that Lord and cheered in extreme joy ‘Hail Lord Shiva, Hail Goddess Sati!.  Oh! Mune, I have got relieved from extreme trepidation, with folded handed offered prayer to that supreme Lord Shiva and Jagathjanani Devi Sati.”

 

Lord Rudra speaks “Oh! Bhraman, Oh! Thatha, do not get anxious, keep yourself free from worries, and bless you.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks to Narada “ Oh! Mune, I have reverentially prostrated before the lotus feet of supreme Lord Mahadeva, I have touched those divine feet and placed it on my head, soon I have attained the form of a celestial bull; soon I have covered my head and felt ashamed of myself. I have offered sincere prayers to that Lord and requested to advise me about the performance of atonement for the sin committed. I was ready to give away my life for the sin committed to Jaganmatha, Paramba, Bhagavathi, Jagathjanani. Lord Shiva, who is extremely benevolent to his devotees, was highly satisfied listening to my words filled with guilt and shame. Lord Rudra spoke “Oh! Vidhe, you have to perform penance in the form of a celestial bull which is my vehicle, and please me with your austerities and penances. You will be famously known as ‘Rudrashira’, and bring welfare and success in the tasks of the noble twice-born. You have dropped ‘Beeja’ as the way humans; therefore you will take birth on the Earth. Whoever listens to this legend would be freed from the interest in worldly matters and bondage, finally attain liberation from the repeated cycles of birth, Oh! Bhraman, the people who discuss the celestial wedding and the related event took place would remove your sins. The people would laugh at your misdeed would remove your sins, that would be the atonement of the sins committed. The four drops of the Beeja would infuse in the air and transform as rain clouds.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks to Narada “ Oh! Mune, The Beeja transformed into huge clouds of Samvarththaka, Avartha, Pushkara and Drona, these clouds created a huge shower at the will of Lord Shiva, the newly wedded couple became calm. The rain showers removed my fear and I have continued the remaining rites of the marriage ceremony. All the deities were delightful, showered flowers upon the newly wedded couple, the divine sounds of musical instruments reverberated all over the place, the Apsaras performed dances, the celestial Gandharvas sang beautifully, Bhramanas recited Vedic Manthras, the celestial Apsaras Rambha, and others performed marvelous dances with the female deities. Lord Shiva after the completion of the marriage rites spoke to me with folded hands. “ Oh! Bhraman, you have performed the rites of the marriage meticulously, you have been the priest of the marriage rite, what should I give you as Dhakshina? What would you like to receive as Dhakshina? Oh! Surajyeshta, you deserve to receive a great lot as Dhakshina, still, I would like to hear from you.” Oh! Mune, I was transported to the state of supreme bliss listening to the kind and compassionate words of supreme Lord Mahadeva. I have reverentially greeted and replied “Oh! Maheshana, Oh! Devesha, if you are pleased with me, if you wanted to offer a boon, kindly offer a boon which you are pleased to give. Oh! Maheshwara, you are the supreme Lord, be with your consort always, and remove the sins of the Jeeva. Oh! Shashishekhara, will I be able to perform Tapas living in a hermitage in the vicinity of you and thereby perform the atonement for the sins committed? Oh! Bhagavan, whoever in the vicinity of you on the bright thirteenth day of the month Chaithra would get relieved from their sins. Oh! Bhagavan, kindly destroy my sins, and enhances the virtues in me, and keep me free from ailments. Oh! Bhagavan, a barren woman who has the ugly appearance, crooked eyes, and unfortunate, achieved greatest of the piousness and fortune after witnessing you.” Oh! Mune, listening to my words, Lord Shiva got pleased and answered ‘Let it be so’.

 

Lord Shiva speaks “Oh! Vidhe, I shall remain in the highest of the order with my consort Devi Sati, for the welfare of the Universe and its living beings, and remove the sins of the Jeeva.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks to Narada “Oh! Mune, the supreme Lord Parameshwara along with Goddess Sati, prepared to leave the abode of Dhakshaprajapathi after the marriage. Daksha along with his wife Devi Virani highly eulogized the supreme Lord Mahadeva, soon all the deities, Lord Vishnu, Rishis, and Sages joined in prayers to that supreme Lord, shortly the couple mounted on the celestial bull and returned to Mount Kailash. Devi Sati who has a dark color complexion resembled silver line circled the moon, with the supreme Lord Mahadeva who has the lustrous body of fair complexion. Shortly, Lord Vishnu, deities, Sages, Rishis, Marichi, and others accompanied the couple with divine music in praise of Lord Mahadeva and Devi Sati. Thus, Lord Shiva and Devi Sati reached in the Mount Kailash, and Lord Shiva bade-farewell to all the deities, Rishis and Sages followed him. Once again, Lord Vishnu and all the deities eulogized Lord Shiva and Devi Sati and returned to their respective abodes. Lord Shiva and Devi Sati lived happily in the Himalaya for some time with his attendants, later they have moved to Mount Kailash. Oh! Mune, I have narrated the legend of the celestial wedding of Devi Sati and Lord Shiva that took place before the birth of Swayambhuva Manu. Whoever listens or read the glorious legend describes the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Devi Sati, with utmost reverence and devotion, would achieve an abundance of piousness, the unmarried girl would achieve an appropriate companion as a wedded husband added with good fortune, humility, nobility, chastity and virtuous progeny.”

 

 

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

 

Chapter –80  – Rudra Samhitha/Sati Khanda – 19

 

Lord Bhrama speaks “Oh! Mune, Dhakshaprajapathi, and Virani performed Kanyakadhanam of Devi Sati, and pleasingly offered an abundance of wealth as a gift to Hara and the several Brahmins. Lord Vishnu along with Goddess Mahalakshmi with folded hands spoke to Lord Hara “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Mahadeva, Oh! Karunasagara, Oh! Prabho, you are the Lord of The universe, extremely compassionate to deities and living beings, Goddess Sati is Jagathjanani, Oh! Bhagavan, you have personified to destroy the wicked demons and shower auspicious grace on noble souls, it is the ultimate truth of your manifestation.  Oh! Bhagavan, Devi Sati who has the dark complexion is in an inseparable consort of you, like Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi is mine, and Lord Bhrama along with Goddess Saraswathi. Oh! Bhagavan, hereafter you and Goddess Sati, kindly resume the function of the expansion of creation and annihilation of the wicked demons, protect the deities and noble souls from the harassment of the demons, and shower your auspicious grace on the three worlds.”

 

Lord Bhrama speaks to Narada “Oh! Sutha, Lord Hara was highly pleased with the request of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Mahalakshmi, the all-pervasive Supreme Lord Shiva replied with a pleasing smile ‘Le it be’. Lord Vishnu along with his consort returned to his abode. I have performed detailed rites/Agnikarya after the marriage. Devi Sati and Lord Mahadeva circumambulated the sacrificial fire; I was nominated as the priest to perform all those Agnikarya. A grand music and dance program was organized after the marriage, to entertain the guests who have participated in it. Oh! Narada, the Maya of the Lord Mahadeva is so powerful, will not spare even the single creature in this Universe, it would make the life of the Jeeva miserable, I am going to explain to you about that unconquerable Maya of Lord Mahadeva that put me in embarrassment once again. While Devi circumambulating the Yagagni, I was besieged with the Maya of the Lord, got attracted to the beautiful appearance of Devi Sati who is Jagathjanani, eventually I have lost attention on the Yaga, tossed wet wood in the Yaga and poured ghee over it, soon a thick smoke covered the entire arena has blocked the vision. But my desire for Devi Sati did not stop, I lustfully looked at her attractive limbs, yearningly looked at her face, soon my Beeja fell on the Earth, I have put all effort to hide the semen from others, but the supreme Lord Shiva noticed it and in a fury spoke “Oh! Bhraman, you have committed a sinful deed while performing the Agnikarya. How could you put a mischievous eye on my wife? How did you commit such a grave sin while performing the marriage rites? I am the knower of all, how could you hide it from me? Oh! Vidhe, have you forgot my existence? I am all- pervasive, resides as a soul in living beings, like the sesame seed is inseparable from its oil.” Oh! Narada, the Lord Mahadeva pointed his powerful trident against me, the Sage Marichi and others got frightened and raised voice in fear, soon all the deities, Sages praised the supreme Lord Mahadeva who was in an extreme fury.”

 

Deities eulogize Lord Shiva “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Mahadeva, Oh! Sharanagathavathsala, kindly protect Bhrama,  Oh! Maheshwara, kindly shower your grace upon him. Oh! Mahesha, you are the father of the Universe and Devi Sati is the mother of the Universe, Oh! Suraprabho, Lord Bhrama, and Vishnu are initiated from your limbs, to perform the function of creation and preservation respectively. Your Maya is unconquerable; you have a marvelous appearance and have performed various sports, Oh! Bhagavan, Jeeva who is secluded from you get besieged by your Maya.” All the deities and Sages assembled were frightened to watch the fury of Lord Mahadeva, it created huge chaos among the assembled in the marriage. Soon, Lord Vishnu, who is highly capable to calm down the Lord Mahadeva appeared before him and eulogized him.

 

Lord Vishnu eulogizes Lord Shiva “ Oh! Bhoothesha, Oh! Jagathprabhu, Oh! Sharanagathavathsala, kindly do not harm Lord Bhrama who is the creator of the Universe and its living beings, Oh! Bhagavan, you are too compassionate do not leave people who are surrendered at your lotus feet. Oh! Bhagavan, I am your sincere devotee, requests you do not hurt Lord Bhrama, kindly shower your grace on us. Oh! Bhagavan, the four-faced Bhraman is the creator of the Universe and its living beings, if anything happens to him would create an obstruction to the creation. Oh! Bhagavan we three have undertaken the function of creation, preservation, and destruction respectively, it should continue for the expansion and the welfare of the Universe. Oh! Bhagavan, be kind to Lord Bhrama who made all efforts to approach Devi Sati and Dhakshaprajapathi, and took initiative in the union of you and Devi Sati.”

 

Lord Mahesha speaks “Oh! Devadeva, Oh! Ramesha, Oh! Vishno, Oh! Bhakthapranavallabha, listen to me carefully, do not stop me destroying Bhrama. He has committed a grave sin; I am well capable to perform the creation of living beings in his absence, therefore do not stop me punishing Lord Bhrama.”

 

Acchyutha with a pleasing smile spoke “ Oh! Prabho, we are trinities, we are not different from each other, and we are one.”

 

Lord Mahadeva speaks “Oh! Vishno, Oh! Sarvabhakthesha, Bhrama cannot be my soul, he behaved completely different from me, and you are the Lord of Devotees.”

 

Lord Vishnu speaks “ Oh! Parameshwara, you and Bhrama are not different, in the same manner, you and me. Oh! Sarvajja, Oh! Parameshwara, Oh! Sadhashiva, you are the knower of all,  Oh! Rishis, and Sages, we three are not different from each other. Oh! Bhagavan, you are the creator of the Universe and its living beings, you are the preserver of them, and you are the destroyer of the Universe and its living beings at the end of Kalpa. You are supreme Bhramam,  we are trinities to perform the function creation, preservation, and destruction, Oh! Bhagavan, we both are initiated from the left and right limbs of you. Oh! Bhagavan, you are primordial,  you have supreme brilliance, you are invisible, you are supreme Bhramam resides as soul resides in living beings, you are eternal, you are supreme bliss, free from attributes.” Thus, Lord Vishnu appeased Lord Shiva.