Adhyaya 10

In the framing dialogue between Yudhiṣṭhira and Nārada, Nārada deliberately provokes Jālandhara by contrasting Śiva’s ascetic “poverty” with the true treasure of Kailāsa—the incomparable radiance of Pārvatī (Gaurī). Enraged, Jālandhara dispatches Rāhu/Svarbhānu (Saiṃhikeya) as his envoy to Kailāsa. At the gate, Nandī questions the messenger and then escorts him into Śiva’s assembly. Śiva manifests in an awe-inspiring, many-faced form, notably without the Goddess at his side. Rāhu delivers Jālandhara’s arrogant demand—implying a claim upon Gaurī and Śiva’s submission—while also praising Śiva’s transcendence in paradox-laden speech. Śiva remains silent; Nandī discerns the Lord’s intent and dismisses the envoy. The chapter also includes the striking episode of Kīrtimukha’s emergence and self-devouring hunger, portraying devotion disciplined by divine restraint. Rāhu returns to report that he assumed a captivating, Gaurī-like form in the course of his mission.