Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 37
Mārkaṇḍeya Ṛṣi Meets Lord Śiva: Devotee as Living Tīrtha and the Lord’s Māyā
ज्ञानं त्रैकालिकं ब्रह्मन् विज्ञानं च विरक्तिमत् । ब्रह्मवर्चस्विनो भूयात् पुराणाचार्यतास्तु ते ॥ ३७ ॥
jñānaṁ trai-kālikaṁ brahman vijñānaṁ ca viraktimat brahma-varcasvino bhūyāt purāṇācāryatāstu te
O brāhmaṇa, may you have perfect knowledge of past, present and future, along with transcendental realization of the Supreme, enriched by renunciation. You have the brilliance of an ideal brāhmaṇa, and thus may you achieve the post of spiritual master of the Purāṇas.
FAQs
This verse blesses the seeker with tri-temporal scriptural knowledge (jñāna), realized understanding (vijñāna), and detachment (vairāgya), presenting them as essential qualities for authentic spiritual authority.
In the concluding teachings of Canto 12, Sūta emphasizes the qualifications and blessings connected with transmitting Purāṇic wisdom—knowledge, realization, detachment, and brahminical radiance—so the tradition remains pure and effective.
Study sacred texts consistently (jñāna), practice what you learn through devotion and self-discipline (vijñāna), and reduce unhealthy attachments (vairāgya); then your words naturally gain clarity, integrity, and spiritual influence.