Shloka 31
शिवशिवयोर्जगत्पितृमातृत्व-प्रतिपादनं तथा मेनायाः विमोहः (Śiva–Śivā as Cosmic Father and Mother; Menā’s Delusion and the Sages’ Intervention)
असत्यमहितं पश्चात्सांप्रतं श्रुतिसुन्दरम् । सुबुद्धिर्वक्ति शत्रुर्हि हितं नैव कदाचन
asatyamahitaṃ paścātsāṃprataṃ śrutisundaram | subuddhirvakti śatrurhi hitaṃ naiva kadācana
Unwahres und Schädliches kann später so gesprochen werden, als sei es jetzt „wohlklingend“. Doch ein Feind—selbst wenn er klug ist—spricht niemals wahrhaft zu deinem Nutzen.
Suta Goswami (narrating the Purana’s teaching to the sages at Naimisharanya within the Rudrasaṃhitā frame)
Tattva Level: pashu
FAQs
It teaches viveka—discerning truth from pleasing words—because spiritual life in Shaiva Dharma depends on satya (truth) and hita (benefit). Deceptive, sweet-sounding speech strengthens bondage (pāśa), while truthful counsel supports purification and steadiness in sādhanā.
Linga-worship emphasizes inner purity alongside outer ritual. This verse warns that pleasing talk without truth and goodwill can derail devotion; steadiness in Saguna Shiva worship grows when one chooses truthful, beneficial guidance and avoids hostile influence that disturbs bhakti and niyama.
Adopt a vow of satya-and-hita-vākya (truthful, beneficial speech) during japa of “Om Namaḥ Śivāya,” and keep sangati (company) of sādhus. As a practical vrata, refrain from gossip and flattery, and speak only what supports dharma and devotion.