Shloka 33
Dakṣa Offends Lord Śiva: Cursing and Countercursing in the Sacrificial Assembly
मैत्रेय उवाच तस्यैवं वदत: शापं भृगो: स भगवान् भव: । निश्चक्राम तत: किञ्चिद्विमना इव सानुग: ॥ ३३ ॥
maitreya uvāca tasyaivaṁ vadataḥ śāpaṁ bhṛgoḥ sa bhagavān bhavaḥ niścakrāma tataḥ kiñcid vimanā iva sānugaḥ
Maitreya said: As Bhṛgu’s curse and the countercurses resounded, Lord Śiva, the Bhagavān, became deeply sorrowful. Saying nothing, he left the sacrificial arena, followed by his disciples.
Here Lord Śiva’s excellent character is described. In spite of the cursing and countercursing between the parties of Dakṣa and Śiva, because he is the greatest Vaiṣṇava he was so sober that he did not say anything. A Vaiṣṇava is always tolerant, and Lord Śiva is considered the topmost Vaiṣṇava, so his character, as shown in this scene, is excellent. He became morose because he knew that these people, both his men and Dakṣa’s, were unnecessarily cursing and countercursing one another, without any interest in spiritual life. From his point of view, he did not see anyone as lower or higher, because he is a Vaiṣṇava. As stated in Bhagavad-gītā (5.18) , paṇḍitāḥ sama-darśinaḥ: one who is perfectly learned does not see anyone as lesser or greater, because he sees everyone from the spiritual platform. Thus the only alternative left to Lord Śiva was to leave in order to stop his follower, Nandīśvara, as well as Bhṛgu Muni, from cursing and countercursing in that way.
FAQs
This verse states that when Bhṛgu uttered the curse, Lord Śiva departed the assembly, appearing somewhat disheartened, choosing withdrawal over escalation.
It highlights Śiva’s restraint and humility—rather than retaliating when insulted or cursed, he leaves with his followers, avoiding further disturbance.
When confronted with harsh words or unjust blame, step back instead of reacting impulsively; preserve peace, reduce conflict, and respond later with clarity.