Narada Purana — Purva Bhaga, Shloka 11
Kalpa-Lakṣaṇa and Gṛhya-Kalpa: Classifications, Purifications, Implements, and Spatial Rite-Design
कृत्वा प्रोक्तानि कर्माणि तदूर्द्ध्वानि करोति यः । सोऽथ शब्दं प्रयुञ्जीत तदानन्त्यार्थमिष्यते ॥ ११ ॥
kṛtvā proktāni karmāṇi tadūrddhvāni karoti yaḥ | so'tha śabdaṃ prayuñjīta tadānantyārthamiṣyate || 11 ||
Having first performed the prescribed rites as taught, whoever then proceeds to the higher practices should thereafter employ the sacred Word (śabda), for it is intended to lead to the Infinite (ananta).
Sanatkumara (teaching Narada)
Vrata: none
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: none
FAQs
It outlines a graded path: after completing prescribed karmas, one should take up higher practice centered on śabda (sacred sound), because śabda is presented as a means oriented toward realizing the Infinite.
By emphasizing śabda as a spiritual tool, the verse supports bhakti practices like nāma-japa and mantra—using sacred sound after purification through dharma-karmas, so the mind can rest in the limitless reality.
Śabda points to the discipline of Vyākaraṇa (grammar) and correct mantra-usage—proper application of sacred sound after due ritual preparation, aligning speech and meaning toward a liberating aim.