Kurma Purana — Purva Bhaga, Shloka 118
Dakṣa’s Progeny, Nṛsiṃha–Varāha Avatāras, and Andhaka’s Defeat
Hari–Hara–Śakti Synthesis
मोहयन्त इमं लोकमवतीर्य महीतले / चकार शङ्करो भिक्षां हितायैषां द्विजैः सह
mohayanta imaṃ lokamavatīrya mahītale / cakāra śaṅkaro bhikṣāṃ hitāyaiṣāṃ dvijaiḥ saha
Turun ke bumi dan mengelirukan dunia ini, Śaṅkara mengambil laku pengemis suci (mendicant), bersama para Brahmana ini, demi kebajikan tertinggi mereka.
Purana narrator (Vyasa/Suta-frame narration), describing Shiva’s action within the chapter’s theological narrative
Primary Rasa: adbhuta
Secondary Rasa: bhayanaka
FAQs
By showing Śiva’s deliberate use of “bewilderment” (moha) for welfare, the verse implies that the Supreme is not bound by māyā but can wield it compassionately—pointing to an Atman/Ishvara that remains free while guiding embodied beings toward good.
The verse foregrounds bhikṣā (mendicancy) as a discipline: humility, non-attachment, and renunciation—supports for inner restraint (yama/niyama-like virtues) that align with Purāṇic yoga ethics and the Pāśupata-tinged ideal of transforming conduct to purify perception.
It presents Śiva as a salvific guide acting for beings’ welfare, consistent with the Kurma Purana’s synthesis where divine functions—whether attributed to Śiva or Viṣṇu—serve dharma and liberation rather than sectarian rivalry.