Shloka 23
हर्य्युपस्थापितः प्राह वचनं नष्ट दुर्मतिः । मया दुरक्तयः प्रोक्ता मोहितेन कुबुद्धिना
haryyupasthāpitaḥ prāha vacanaṃ naṣṭa durmatiḥ | mayā duraktayaḥ proktā mohitena kubuddhinā
When he was brought into the presence of Hari (Viṣṇu), the man of ruined understanding spoke these words: “In delusion, with a perverted intellect, I have uttered wicked and improper statements.”
An offender who has been brought before Lord Viṣṇu (Hari) and is confessing his fault (as narrated by Sūta Gosvāmin in the Rudrasaṁhitā context).
Tattva Level: pashu
FAQs
It highlights a key Shaiva ethical principle: delusion (moha) distorts buddhi and leads to harmful speech, but spiritual progress begins with honest confession and inner correction—preparing the mind for devotion to Pati (Śiva) and liberation.
Linga-worship in the Shiva Purana is grounded in purity of intention and speech. This verse shows the devotee’s turning away from arrogance and wrong talk—an essential prerequisite for approaching Saguna Shiva through ritual, prayer, and reverence.
Practice speech-discipline and repentance: recite the Pañcākṣarī mantra “Om Namaḥ Śivāya” with sincere self-examination, and (where taught in the Purana) support it with Tripuṇḍra (bhasma) and steady japa to cleanse moha-driven impulses.