Shloka 55
मुक्तयतिदेहसंस्काररहस्यं — The Esoteric Rites for the Bodies of Liberated Ascetics
ओंमित्यथ समुद्धृत्य स्वस्तिवाचनपूर्वकम् । गर्ते योगासने स्थाप्य प्राङ्मुखं स्याद्यथा तथा
oṃmityatha samuddhṛtya svastivācanapūrvakam | garte yogāsane sthāpya prāṅmukhaṃ syādyathā tathā
Then, uttering the sacred syllable “Oṁ” aloud and first pronouncing words of auspicious benediction, one should place (the worshipful object/seat) in a prepared pit as a yogic seat (yogāsana), and sit facing the east, as prescribed.
Suta Goswami
Tattva Level: pashu
Shiva Form: Dakṣiṇāmūrti
Mantra: oṃ; svasti-vācana (auspicious benedictions)
Type: gayatri
Role: teaching
FAQs
It teaches that Shaiva practice begins with śuddhi (order and purity): invoking Oṁ and auspiciousness, then establishing a steady yogic seat facing east—disciplining body and speech so the mind may turn toward Pati (Shiva) for grace and liberation.
The verse describes preliminary ritual alignment—svasti-vācana, correct placement, and orientation—commonly required before Linga-pūjā and Saguna worship, ensuring the devotee approaches Shiva with proper vidhi (procedure) and focused intention.
Begin with the recitation of Oṁ and auspicious benedictions, prepare/mark a dedicated place (garta) and establish a stable āsana, then sit facing east for japa or dhyāna—supporting mantra practice such as the Panchākṣarī (Om Namaḥ Śivāya).