Shloka 31
शिवशिवयोर्जगत्पितृमातृत्व-प्रतिपादनं तथा मेनायाः विमोहः (Śiva–Śivā as Cosmic Father and Mother; Menā’s Delusion and the Sages’ Intervention)
असत्यमहितं पश्चात्सांप्रतं श्रुतिसुन्दरम् । सुबुद्धिर्वक्ति शत्रुर्हि हितं नैव कदाचन
asatyamahitaṃ paścātsāṃprataṃ śrutisundaram | subuddhirvakti śatrurhi hitaṃ naiva kadācana
What is untrue and harmful may later be spoken as if it were presently ‘beautiful to the ear.’ But a foe—even if intelligent—never truly speaks what is beneficial to you at any time.
Suta Goswami (narrating the Purana’s teaching to the sages at Naimisharanya within the Rudrasaṃhitā frame)
Tattva Level: pashu
FAQs
It teaches viveka—discerning truth from pleasing words—because spiritual life in Shaiva Dharma depends on satya (truth) and hita (benefit). Deceptive, sweet-sounding speech strengthens bondage (pāśa), while truthful counsel supports purification and steadiness in sādhanā.
Linga-worship emphasizes inner purity alongside outer ritual. This verse warns that pleasing talk without truth and goodwill can derail devotion; steadiness in Saguna Shiva worship grows when one chooses truthful, beneficial guidance and avoids hostile influence that disturbs bhakti and niyama.
Adopt a vow of satya-and-hita-vākya (truthful, beneficial speech) during japa of “Om Namaḥ Śivāya,” and keep sangati (company) of sādhus. As a practical vrata, refrain from gossip and flattery, and speak only what supports dharma and devotion.