Shloka 46
Jaṭilāvatāra-Parīkṣā: Pārvatyāḥ Tapasāṃ Parīkṣaṇam
The Jaṭilā Episode and the Testing of Pārvatī’s Austerity
तदाकर्ण्य वचो देव्या ब्रह्मचारी स वै द्विजः । पुनर्वचनमादातुं यावदेव प्रचक्रमे
tadākarṇya vaco devyā brahmacārī sa vai dvijaḥ | punarvacanamādātuṃ yāvadeva pracakrame
Hearing the Goddess’s words, that brahmacārī—indeed the twice-born one—at once set about to speak again, preparing to reply.
Narrator (Suta Goswami, relating the episode in the Shiva Purana)
Tattva Level: pashu
Significance: Highlights the bound soul’s (paśu) reactive tendency—wanting to ‘speak back’ even after receiving instruction—underscoring the need for humility and receptivity on the path.
Shakti Form: Pārvatī
Role: teaching
FAQs
It highlights disciplined listening (śravaṇa) and measured response: the seeker first receives the Goddess’s instruction and then speaks with restraint—an essential Shaiva virtue for purifying mind and karma on the path to Shiva.
Though the Linga is not named here, the narrative mood reflects Saguna devotion: the Goddess’s spoken guidance functions as Shiva’s grace through Shakti, directing the devotee’s conduct that supports worship and inner steadiness.
The implied practice is mindful speech after attentive hearing—supporting japa such as the Panchakshara mantra (Om Namaḥ Śivāya) with brahmacarya, silence when needed, and deliberate recitation rather than impulsive talk.