Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.5.10
Nirodha· Winding upDisrespect Ignores Lord Śiva’s Great Power
“At the time of dissolution, Lord Śiva’s hair is scattered, and he pierces the rulers of the different directions with his trident. He laughs and dances proudly, scattering their hands like flags, as thunder scatters the clouds all over the world.”
What the purport teaches
- Prasūti appreciated Lord Śiva’s power and described his actions at dissolution. Dakṣa’s strength could not be compared with his.
- With scattered hair and trident in hand, Lord Śiva performs the pralaya dance, or dance of dissolution. In the final phase, his dancing causes the planets to become inundated with water.
- Prasūti understood that the danger arose not only from Dakṣa’s neglect of Satī but also from his neglect of Lord Śiva’s prestige and honor.
Try this today
Notice one dismissive thought today and replace it with a respectful acknowledgment.
Ask yourself
How can pride lead me to dismiss the dignity or strength of another?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.