Shloka 22
Brahmā Counsels the Demigods; Journey to Kailāsa; Śiva’s Tranquility and Brahmā’s Praise
पर्यस्तं नन्दया सत्या: स्नानपुण्यतरोदया । विलोक्य भूतेशगिरिं विबुधा विस्मयं ययु: ॥ २२ ॥
paryastaṁ nandayā satyāḥ snāna-puṇyatarodayā vilokya bhūteśa-giriṁ vibudhā vismayaṁ yayuḥ
There is a small lake named Alakanandā, where Satī once bathed, and it is especially auspicious and sanctifying. Beholding the unique beauty of Mount Kailāsa—the mountain of Bhūteśa (Śiva)—all the devas were struck with wonder at its splendid opulence.
According to the commentary called Śrī-Bhāgavata-candra-candrikā, the water in which Satī used to bathe was Ganges water. In other words, the Ganges flowed through the Kailāsa-parvata. There is every possibility of accepting such a statement because Ganges water also flows from the hair of Lord Śiva. Since Ganges water rests on the head of Lord Śiva and then flows to the other parts of the universe, it is quite possible that the water in which Satī bathed, which was certainly very nicely scented, was Ganges water.
FAQs
This verse highlights waters described as exceptionally purifying—so sacred that merely being placed near them is associated with great spiritual merit, underscoring the Bhagavatam’s reverence for tīrthas connected to great devotees and Lord Śiva.
After the upheaval surrounding Dakṣa’s sacrifice and Satī’s passing, the demigods beheld Lord Śiva’s mountain and its extraordinary, sanctifying setting, which filled them with wonder.
Seek purification through association with sacred environments and saintly devotion—favoring places, practices, and communities that elevate consciousness rather than agitate it.