Shloka 17
देवर्षि-प्रश्नः तथा असुर-वध-हेतुनिवेदनम् | The Devas’ Petition and the Cause for Slaying Asuras
इत्थं वयं त्रिधा भूताः प्रभाभिन्नस्वरूपिणः । शिवाशिवसुतास्तत्त्वं हृदा विद्धि सनातन
itthaṃ vayaṃ tridhā bhūtāḥ prabhābhinnasvarūpiṇaḥ | śivāśivasutāstattvaṃ hṛdā viddhi sanātana
Thus, we have become threefold, our very forms distinguished only by radiance. Know in your heart the eternal truth: we are the sons of Śiva and Aśivā.
Shiva’s sons (a triad of divine beings speaking within the Satī Khaṇḍa narrative, addressing Sanātana/Sanātana-like sage)
Tattva Level: pati
Shiva Form: Sadāśiva
Shakti Form: Satī
Role: creative
Cosmic Event: triadic manifestation distinguished by prabhā (radiance)
FAQs
It points to an inner realization (hṛdā viddhi) that apparent multiplicity—“threefold”—is ultimately a manifestation distinguished only by divine radiance, while the underlying truth is rooted in Śiva-tattva.
By stressing forms “differentiated by radiance,” it supports Saguna contemplation—approaching Śiva through perceivable manifestations—while directing the devotee to recognize the single eternal principle behind all forms, as symbolized by the Liṅga.
A simple takeaway is heart-centered japa and contemplation: repeat the Pañcākṣarī (“Om Namaḥ Śivāya”) while meditating on Śiva’s auspicious light, seeking direct inner recognition of tattva.