Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 3
Kriyā-yoga, the Virāṭ-Puruṣa Mapping, and the Sun-God’s Monthly Expansions
तान्त्रिका: परिचर्यायां केवलस्य श्रिय: पते: । अङ्गोपाङ्गायुधाकल्पं कल्पयन्ति यथा च यै: ॥ २ ॥ तन्नो वर्णय भद्रं ते क्रियायोगं बुभुत्सताम् । येन क्रियानैपुणेन मर्त्यो यायादमर्त्यताम् ॥ ३ ॥
tāntrikāḥ paricaryāyāṁ kevalasya śriyaḥ pateḥ aṅgopāṅgāyudhākalpaṁ kalpayanti yathā ca yaiḥ
In tantric worship, while rendering regulated service to the transcendental Lord, Śrīpati, devotees conceive of His limbs and features, His associates, His weapons and His ornaments through particular material representations. May all auspiciousness be yours! Please describe to us, eager to understand, the process of kriyā-yoga, by whose expert worship a mortal may attain immortality.
FAQs
This verse presents kriyā-yoga as a knowable, methodical discipline of worship of the Lord (Śriyaḥ-pati), and says that proficiency in such devotional practice can elevate a mortal toward immortality (liberation).
Parīkṣit wanted a clear description of the prescribed procedures used by worshipers (including tantric practitioners) so that sincere seekers could understand the practical path of worship leading to the highest goal.
Approach worship as a disciplined practice—learn authentic methods from a bona fide tradition, serve with attention to details and devotion, and let consistent practice refine the heart toward freedom from fear and death.