Adhyaya 7

This chapter unfolds a multi-stage theological narrative on karmic consequence, devotional rectification, and the path toward liberation. (1) King Vasu, imprisoned within the earth for a transgression, sustains mental japa of a tri-syllabic Bhagavat-mantra and worships Hari with intense bhakti, observing pañcakāla discipline and practicing “according to time and śāstra.” (2) Pleased, Vāsudeva commands Garuḍa to draw Vasu out from the earth’s fissure and restore him to an exalted state, highlighting divine agency working through a celestial intermediary. (3) The text then teaches that offenses of speech and disrespect can yield severe results, yet exclusive service to Hari swiftly purifies and grants heavenly attainment; Vasu enjoys celestial honors. (4) A further episode introduces Acchodā (connected with the Pitṛs), mistaken identity, and the Pitṛs’ curse, which becomes a structured redemptive plan: future births in the Dvāpara age, continued excellence in devotion, Pañcarātra-mode worship, and eventual return to divine realms. (5) The conclusion turns from enjoyment to vairāgya: Vasu meditates on Ramāpati, relinquishes the deva-body through yogic concentration, reaches the solar sphere described as a “gateway of liberation” for accomplished yogins, and is guided by transitory deities to the wondrous Śvetadvīpa—portrayed as a threshold-domain for devotees seeking Goloka/Vaikuṇṭha. The chapter closes by defining “Śvetamuktas” as those who worship Nārāyaṇa through ekāntika-dharma, single-minded devotion.