Mahabharata — Anushasana Parva, Shloka 135
Śiva-nāmānukīrtana-prastāvaḥ
Prologue to the praise of Śiva and the Upamanyu testimony
यस्य रूपाण्यनेकानि प्रवदन्ति मनीषिण: । स्थानानि च विचित्राणि प्रसादाक्षाप्पनेकश:
yasya rūpāṇy anekāni pravadanti manīṣiṇaḥ | sthānāni ca vicitrāṇi prasādākṣā apy anekaśaḥ ||
Ipinahahayag ng mga pantas na si Panginoong Śaṅkara ay nag-aanyong marami. Ang Kanyang mga tahanan ay kamangha-mangha at sari-sari, at maging ang mapagpalang kaloob ng Kanyang biyaya ay lumilitaw sa iba’t ibang paraan—itinuturo na ang pagka-Diyos ay hindi maikakahon sa iisang anyo, iisang dako, o iisang paraan ng pagpapala.
वासुदेव उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse emphasizes Śaṅkara’s boundless nature: he is known through many forms, associated with many abodes, and his grace appears in diverse modes. Ethically, it encourages humility in theology and openness in devotion—recognizing that divine help and presence may arise in unexpected ways.
Vāsudeva is speaking about Lord Śaṅkara, presenting him as multiform and universally present. The statement functions as praise and doctrinal framing, preparing the listener to understand Śiva’s greatness through his varied manifestations, sacred places, and the many expressions of his favor.