Sloka 8
8.1. IAST Text
yati guḍānī saṁśr̥tuvā vacanānī śivasya ca.
8.2. Word-by-Word Analysis & Explanation
- ati:
- Meaning: “extremely.”
- Explanation: This intensifier emphasizes that the quality or state described is present to a very high degree.
- guḍānī:
- Meaning: “full of secret wisdom.”
- Derivation: From gupta meaning “hidden.”
- Explanation: Conveys that the subject (the words to be heard) is imbued with concealed or esoteric wisdom, reserved for the initiated.
- saṁśr̥tuvā:
- Meaning: “having heard” or “attentively listened.”
- Explanation: Highlights the active, receptive attitude required of the disciple. It indicates that the words have been carefully and mindfully received.
- vacanānī:
- Meaning: “words” or “utterances.”
- Explanation: Refers to the specific divine or esoteric expressions that have been communicated.
- śivasya:
- Meaning: “of Śiva.”
- Explanation: Specifies that the secret utterances originate from Śiva, thereby emphasizing their divine and authoritative nature.
- ca:
- Meaning: “and.”
- Explanation: Connects the idea of receiving these utterances with the context of the dialogue, implying an ongoing transmission.
8.3. Overall Meaning of the Sloka
The exalted Parvatī, endowed with profound secret wisdom, listened intently to the esoteric utterances of Śiva.
8.4. Detailed Commentary
This verse illustrates the ideal posture of the disciple in the Tantric tradition:
- Receptive Attitude:
The use of saṁśr̥tuvā (“having heard” or “attentively listened”) signifies that the act of listening is not passive but an active, mindful engagement. It shows that the true seeker must be fully present and open in order to receive the hidden wisdom. - Emphasis on Esoteric Wisdom:
The adjective guḍānī (“full of secret wisdom”) stresses that the words uttered by Śiva are not ordinary teachings. They are shrouded in mystery and are intended for those who have prepared themselves through disciplined practice and inner purification. - Divine Source of Knowledge:
By specifying śivasya ca (“of Śiva”), the sloka reinforces the notion that the knowledge being transmitted is divinely ordained. Śiva, in Tantric lore, is the supreme teacher whose utterances carry profound, transformative power. This aspect underscores the authority and sanctity of the teachings. - Model for the Aspirant:
The verse as a whole presents Parvatī as the ideal disciple—one who, through her deep inner receptivity and wisdom, is capable of understanding and absorbing the secret utterances of the divine. This serves as a model for all aspirants: true transformation begins with an attentive and discerning approach to receiving the teacher’s words.
Core Message:
Sloka 8 encapsulates the essence of esoteric transmission in the Tantric tradition. It teaches that the inner, hidden wisdom of Śiva is communicated through secret utterances, and only a devoted and discerning disciple—exemplified by Parvatī—can fully receive and internalize this divine knowledge. The emphasis on both the secret nature of the words and the deep, attentive listening required serves as a guiding principle for all spiritual seekers aiming to access hidden spiritual truths.