Greatness of Shiva : Mahimnastava of Pushpadanta with commentary

MAHIMNASTAVA. 23

30 Reverence and again reverence to Bhava' Who with the active quality? creates the universe Reverence and again reverence to M7zda* Who with the quality of manifestation? (preserves and) gives happiness to men Reverence and again reverence to Hara* Who with the quality which veils? destroys the universe Reverence and again reverence to Shiva Beyond all qualities in His glittering Abode.* 31 How great® is the difference between my mind Capable of but little understanding And subject to sorrows And Thine everlasting glory Which surpasses all attributes Yet fearful as I am my devotion has encouraged me To offer to Thee Oh Giver of Blessings This garland of words at Thy feet’

1 Here the Supreme Shiva in His aspect as the creator Brahma.

2 Rajoguma, Sattvaguza, Tamoguaa, lit. “with the aid chiefly of the Rajoguza” and so with the others, The three Guzas co-exist but one or other predominate according as the function is creation, maintenance, or destruction respectively in which case Rajas, Sattva, and Tamas have predominant operation.

3 The Supreme Shiva in His aspect as Vishnu: the Vishnuripa because he pleases and protects all.

4 The Supreme Shiva in His aspect as the Destroyer Rudra.

5 Previously he has dealt with the Triguzatmakam or Saguva Brahma and now he salutes Shiva as the Supreme beyond all Gumas (Nirguma) that is as It exists in Itself and before the creation of the worlds composed of the Guzas which are the manifestation of its Power (Shakti).

6 Here the Hymnist expresses his humility (J.C.)

7 The words of the Hymn are compared to an offering of flowers.