कामप्रहारः — The Subduing of Kāma (Desire) / Kāma’s Assault and Its Futility
देवा ऊचुः । किंचिद्भस्म गृहीत्वा तु रक्ष यत्नाद्भयं त्यज । जीवयिष्यति स स्वामी लप्स्यसे त्वं पुनः प्रियम्
devā ūcuḥ | kiṃcidbhasma gṛhītvā tu rakṣa yatnādbhayaṃ tyaja | jīvayiṣyati sa svāmī lapsyase tvaṃ punaḥ priyam
The Devas said: “Take a little of the sacred ash, bhasma, and preserve it with care; cast away fear. That Lord will restore him to life, and you shall attain your beloved again.”
The Devas
Tattva Level: pati
Shiva Form: Mahādeva
Significance: Bhasma (vibhūti) is presented as Śiva’s salvific sign; preserving it signifies taking refuge in Śiva and readiness for his restoring grace.
It presents bhasma (vibhūti) as Śiva’s grace made tangible: a purifier and protector that dispels fear, affirming that the Lord (Pati) can overcome limitation and restore auspiciousness to the devotee.
Bhasma is a key marker of Saguna Śiva worship—applied as Tripuṇḍra and kept with reverence—signifying surrender to Śiva’s lordship and remembrance of the Linga as the source of protection and renewal.
Preserve and reverently use sacred ash (vibhūti)—traditionally as Tripuṇḍra—while cultivating fearlessness and trust in Śiva; it supports steady bhakti and protective remembrance of the Lord.