Verses 960–969

960. That one like Brahma should have been destroyed. That one like cupid should have turned into flame. Then shall ye who are with a sure life live as though eternity were yours?

961. The original Purana is such as slays the Rakshrsas. The Bharata and others are of kin (i.e. benevolent as relations.) The Gurupurana is the destroyer of imposture.

962. Among the Gods Brahma, Siva, Vishnu and the rest and among the demi-Gods that roam the three worlds and among the excellent men and with in thyself O Vema he who acts up rightly is the eternal.

963. The Lingam is the highest Siva. The (Zangam) worshipper, is the animated beast. If that animated being be pure, he shall attain Siva, Unless thou know the unknown, how shalt thou attain the divinity.

964. Then thou hast with (sport) joy perceived the lingam in thy body, thy mind shall be enamoured of that lingam. If thou fix (or restrain) thy mind, in it. shall the lingam dwell.

965. Through ignorance of the secret of our patron (or loved) Linga, the eager fool wanders to the Hill of Shrishylam. At last he fails of bliss and becometh a fool.

966. Born in a human race, and growing up there from the day he was born in it the man devoted to Siva becometh noble. (lit. rich)

967. He that is born in a human race and who grows up there in becometh a man; hear this--who is the noblest in the race of men? He who walks in the sect of Siva, this is the chief of the noble.

968. The Smrities all declare Siva to be the chief Brahma. How is it then that Brahmana pays adoration to any other. Should not we call those who believe in Siva, Bramins?

969. Were fire a deity, by worshipping it should not we attain the dwelling of salvation? Did not the fire turn pale before Veerabhadra.