Shloka 42

विष्णुरुवाच—एकाक्षर-प्रणव-लिङ्ग-व्याप्ति-शिवस्तोत्रम्

Devanagari script

सर्वपापविशुद्ध्यर्थं विष्णुना परिभाषितम्

Transliteration

sarvapāpaviśuddhyarthaṃ viṣṇunā paribhāṣitam

Translation

For the sake of purification from all sins, this has been expressly declared by Viṣṇu—so that the bound soul (paśu) may become fit for Śiva’s grace (anugraha).

Word by Word

• सर्व (sarva): all

• पाप (pāpa): sin, demerit

• विशुद्धि (viśuddhi): purification, complete cleansing

• अर्थम् (artham): for the purpose of

• विष्णुना (viṣṇunā): by Viṣṇu

• परिभाषितम् (paribhāṣitam): stated, declared, authoritatively explained

Speaker

Suta Goswami (narrating; citing an instruction attributed to Vishnu within the Purana’s discourse)

Characters & Entities

• Vishnu

FAQs

What is the importance of this verse in the context of Linga worship?

It frames purification (viśuddhi) as the prerequisite for effective Linga-pūjā—clearing pāpa so the paśu becomes eligible for Śiva’s grace and higher worship.

How does this verse describe the nature of Shiva (Shiva-tattva)?

By implying that purification makes the soul fit for anugraha, it aligns with Śaiva Siddhānta: Śiva as Pati bestows liberating grace once pāśa (bondage) is attenuated and the paśu is prepared.

What ritualistic or Yogic practice is highlighted here?

It highlights śuddhi-oriented discipline—expiation, vows, mantra-japa, and preparatory observances that remove pāpa and support Pāśupata-aligned progress toward Śiva.