Shloka 22
यममार्गे सुखदायकधर्माः
Dharmas that Grant Ease on the Path to Yama
क्षुधा निश्शेषरोगाणां व्याधिः श्रेष्ठतमः स्मृतः । स चान्नौषधिलेपेन नश्यतीह न संशयः
kṣudhā niśśeṣarogāṇāṃ vyādhiḥ śreṣṭhatamaḥ smṛtaḥ | sa cānnauṣadhilepena naśyatīha na saṃśayaḥ
Hunger is declared the foremost affliction among all diseases. And that hunger is surely dispelled here by food, by medicine, and by therapeutic applications—of this there is no doubt.
Suta Goswami (narrating the Uma-samhita teachings to the sages, in the Shiva Purana discourse style)
Tattva Level: pasha
Shiva Form: Vaidyanātha
Jyotirlinga: Vaidyanātha
Sthala Purana: Vaidyanātha is famed as the ‘Lord as Physician’ who removes afflictions; this verse’s medical framing (kṣudhā as vyādhi; cure by anna/auṣadhi/lepa) resonates with Śiva’s healing aspect rather than narrating the specific Jyotirliṅga origin.
Significance: Pilgrims seek relief from disease and suffering; the verse supports a dharmic-therapeutic view: alleviating hunger is primary healing and a meritorious act.
Type: mahamrityunjaya
Shakti Form: Annapūrṇā
Role: nurturing
FAQs
It teaches that uncontrolled hunger becomes a primary disturbance to dharma and sadhana; maintaining the body through right means supports steadiness of mind for Shiva-bhakti and yoga, aligning with Shaiva Siddhanta’s emphasis on disciplined practice while transcending bondage.
Linga worship requires regular puja, japa, and inner composure; this verse grounds devotion in practical discipline—when bodily distress like hunger is pacified appropriately, the devotee can sustain steady Saguna Shiva worship and progress toward realization of Shiva as Pati (Lord).
Moderation in fasting and mindful nourishment are implied—observe vrata with discernment, support the body when needed, and continue japa (e.g., Panchakshara) and meditation without letting physical agitation break concentration.