Shloka 7

Matsya Purana — Ritual Bathing

Devanagari script

विद्याधरी सुप्रशान्ता तथा विश्वप्रसादिनी क्षेमा च जाह्नवी चैव शान्ता शान्तिप्रदायिनी //

Transliteration

vidyādharī supraśāntā tathā viśvaprasādinī kṣemā ca jāhnavī caiva śāntā śāntipradāyinī //

Translation

She is “Vidyādharī”, the bearer of sacred knowledge, perfectly serene, and the one who bestows grace upon the whole world; she is “Kṣemā”, and also “Jāhnavī” (the Gaṅgā), “Śāntā” the Peaceful One, and “Śānti-pradāyinī” the Giver of peace.

Word by Word

• vidyādharī: bearer/supporter of knowledge (vidyā)

• supraśāntā: exceedingly tranquil, perfectly pacified

• tathā: and also

• viśva-prasādinī: she who bestows favor/propitiation upon the universe

• kṣemā: welfare, safety, auspicious well-being

• ca: and

• jāhnavī: Jāhnavī—name of the river Gaṅgā

• caiva: and indeed/and also

• śāntā: peaceful, calm

• śānti-pradāyinī: bestower of peace

Speaker

• Sūta (as a reciter of the Purāṇic text) / Purāṇic narrator voice (namāvali-style invocation)

Entities Mentioned

• Vidyā (sacred knowledge)
• Jāhnavī (Gaṅgā)
• Śānti (peace)
• Kṣema (welfare/auspicious security)

Tags

• Shanti
• Stotra
• Ganga
• Namavali
• Ritual

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

Direct pralaya doctrine is not stated here; the verse functions as a śānti-oriented epithet list, emphasizing peace (śānti) and welfare (kṣema)—qualities traditionally invoked to stabilize cosmic and social order against calamity.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

A king or householder is expected to uphold kṣema (public safety and well-being) and cultivate śānti (social harmony). Reciting or sponsoring such śānti-invocations aligns with Purāṇic ethics: protecting subjects/family, reducing conflict, and maintaining auspicious order through dharmic rites.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

Ritually, these are śānti-epithets suitable for japa, pūjā, and consecratory prayers (śānti-karma). Architecturally (Vāstu), the link is indirect: temple/house rites commonly begin with śānti invocations to remove obstacles and ensure kṣema before construction or installation.