Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 4
Mārkaṇḍeya Ṛṣi Meets Lord Śiva: Devotee as Living Tīrtha and the Lord’s Māyā
अथोमा तमृषिं वीक्ष्य गिरिशं समभाषत । पश्येमं भगवन् विप्रं निभृतात्मेन्द्रियाशयम् ॥ ४ ॥
athomā tam ṛṣiṁ vīkṣya giriśaṁ samabhāṣata paśyemaṁ bhagavan vipraṁ nibhṛtātmendriyāśayam
तब उमा ने उस ऋषि को देखकर गिरिश से कहा—हे भगवन्! इस विद्वान ब्राह्मण को देखिए, जिसका शरीर, मन और इन्द्रियाँ समाधि में निश्चल हैं।
FAQs
This verse highlights calm self-mastery—an inner composure where the mind and senses are restrained—presenting such control as a visible sign of saintliness.
On seeing the sage, Umā draws Śiva’s attention to his evident self-control, setting the stage for appreciating and understanding the greatness of such a spiritually advanced person.
Practice deliberate restraint—reduce impulsive sense-gratification, cultivate a steady inner life through devotion and discipline, and value calmness and integrity as marks of real spiritual progress.