Shloka 14
Snāna-Śauca Krama: Varuṇa–Āpaḥ Mantras, Aghamarṣaṇa, Sūrya-Upasthāna, and Sarva-Tarpaṇa
ततो ऽभिषिञ्चेन्मन्त्रैस्तु वरुणैस्तु यथाक्रमम् / इमंमे वरुणे द्वाभ्यां त्वन्नः सत्वन्न इत्यपि
tato 'bhiṣiñcenmantraistu varuṇaistu yathākramam / imaṃme varuṇe dvābhyāṃ tvannaḥ satvanna ityapi
ततो यथाक्रमं वरुणमन्त्रैः अभिषिञ्चेत्। ‘इमं मे वरुणे’ इत्यादि द्वाभ्यां तथा ‘त्वं नः सत्वं नः’ इत्यपि॥
Lord Vishnu (in instruction to Garuda/Vinata-putra, ritual teaching context)
Concept: Ritual efficacy depends on correct sequence (yathākrama) and appropriate mantra selection, especially in water-purification under Varuṇa’s domain.
Vedantic Theme: Ṛta/dharma as order; karma-kāṇḍa discipline as a means to inner and outer purification.
Application: When performing consecration or purification, follow prescribed order and mantras; treat water rites as ethical recommitment, not mere formality.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: adbhuta
Type: ritual bathing/sprinkling area near the altar (abhisheka-sthana)
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.214.15-16 (specific Varuṇa/āpaḥ mantras and noose-release prayers); Garuda Purana 1.214.17 (post-abhisheka immersion and ācamana)
FAQs
This verse prescribes Varuṇa-mantras specifically for abhiṣeka, indicating Varuṇa’s role in ritual purification, order (ṛta), and sanctifying the rite through correctly-sequenced mantra application.
It emphasizes yathākramam—performing the sprinkling in the proper ritual order—and names the mantras to be used (“imaṃ me varuṇe …” and “tvam naḥ satvam naḥ …”), showing that abhiṣeka is mantra-governed, not merely physical sprinkling.
Follow a clear sequence and authorized mantras in any purification or consecration rite; the verse teaches that sincerity plus correct method (order and mantra) strengthens the ritual’s intended sanctifying effect.