What Can Be Given to the One Who Lacks Nothing?
Bala Kanda, Chhand 15
Doha 101 · Movement 2 of 3
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Himavan offers dowry of every kind, then stands with joined palms before the bridegroom. Mountains, gems, animals, vessels, and wealth cannot enrich one already complete in every desire.
The father recognizes the limit of giving. His only true offering is to hold Shankara's lotus feet and surrender the heart that wished to provide everything for Parvati.
Shiva, ocean of compassion, consoles and satisfies his father-in-law in every way. Mena then approaches and clings to his lotus feet with a heart overflowing in love. Grace receives both parents' surrender.
The mountain lays down his treasures and discovers that surrender is the only gift Shiva can receive.
Read the passage from the Manas
दाइज दियो बहु भाँति पुनि कर जोरि हिमभूधर कह्यो। का देउँ पूरनकाम संकर चरन पंकज गहि रह्यो।। सिवँ कृपासागर ससुर कर संतोषु सब भाँतिहिं कियो। पुनि गहे पद पाथोज मयनाँ प्रेम परिपूरन हियो।।
Himachal gave dahej of many kinds. Then, with joined palms, the mountain king spoke: "What can I offer to one who is already complete in every desire? I can only cling to Shankara's lotus feet."