Shloka 6
Pṛthu Mahārāja Meets the Four Kumāras: Bhakti as the Boat Across Saṁsāra
हाटकासन आसीनान् स्वधिष्ण्येष्विव पावकान् । श्रद्धासंयमसंयुक्त: प्रीत: प्राह भवाग्रजान् ॥ ६ ॥
hāṭakāsana āsīnān sva-dhiṣṇyeṣv iva pāvakān śraddhā-saṁyama-saṁyuktaḥ prītaḥ prāha bhavāgrajān
The four great sages, elder even than Lord Śiva, sat upon a golden throne and shone like fire blazing upon an altar. Mahārāja Pṛthu, filled with faith, restraint, and affection, addressed them as follows.
The Kumāras are described herein as the elder brothers of Lord Śiva. When the Kumāras were born out of the body of Lord Brahmā, they were requested to get married and increase the population. In the beginning of the creation there was a great need of population; therefore Lord Brahmā was creating one son after another and ordering them to increase. However, when the Kumāras were requested to do so, they declined. They wanted to remain brahmacārī throughout life and be engaged fully in the devotional service of the Lord. The Kumāras are called naiṣṭhika-brahmacārī, meaning they are never to marry. Because of their refusal to marry, Lord Brahmā became so angry that his eyes became reddish. From between his eyes, Lord Śiva, or Rudra, appeared. The mode of anger is consequently known as rudra. Lord Śiva also has a sampradāya party, known as the Rudra sampradāya, and they are also known as Vaiṣṇavas.
FAQs
It shows that a devotee-leader like Pṛthu approaches exalted devotees with faith, restraint, and genuine joy, recognizing their spiritual radiance and position.
Because the Pracetās were revered ascetics connected with Lord Śiva’s lineage, and Pṛthu—being disciplined and faithful—naturally honored their sanctity before speaking.
Approach spiritual discussions with humility, disciplined speech, and respect for elders/teachers—creating a pure atmosphere where wisdom can be received and shared.