Shloka 16
राहोर्विमोचनानन्तरं जलन्धरस्य सैन्योद्योगः — Rahu’s Aftermath and Jalandhara’s Mobilization
देवा ऊचुः । देवदेव महादेव करुणाकर शंकर । नमस्तेस्तु महेशान पाहि नश्शरणागतान्
devā ūcuḥ | devadeva mahādeva karuṇākara śaṃkara | namastestu maheśāna pāhi naśśaraṇāgatān
The Devas said: “O God of gods, O Mahādeva, compassionate Śaṅkara—salutations to You, O Maheśāna. Protect us, who have come to You for refuge.”
The Devas (gods)
Tattva Level: pati
Shiva Form: Mahādeva
Sthala Purana: A direct śaraṇāgati-stuti to Mahādeva; while not tied to a Jyotirliṅga, its language is commonly used in kṣetra liturgies to invoke protection and grace.
Significance: Establishes the salvific posture: ‘śaraṇāgata’ (one who has taken refuge) seeking pālana (protection), aligning with Siddhānta’s emphasis on Śiva’s anugraha as decisive.
Mantra: devadeva mahādeva karuṇākara śaṃkara | namastestu maheśāna pāhi naśśaraṇāgatān
Type: stotra
Role: liberating
Offering: pushpa
FAQs
It highlights śaraṇāgati—taking refuge in Śiva as Karuṇākara (the very source of compassion). In Shaiva thought, surrender to Pati (the Lord) is a direct means for grace and protection from fear and bondage.
The prayer addresses Saguna Śiva—Śaṅkara and Maheśāna—accessible through devotion, mantra, and Linga worship. The Linga functions as the compassionate, approachable form through which refuge and divine protection are sought.
A simple practice is heartfelt namaskāra and japa in the mood of surrender—especially the Panchākṣarī (“Om Namaḥ Śivāya”)—praying for Śiva’s protection while maintaining bhakti and humility.