The Power to Restore Life (Mṛta-Sañjīvan)

Guru Charitra – Chapter 32

In the earlier thirtieth chapter, a grieving Brahmin woman was found crying when a *sadhu* approached her. His entire body was covered with sacred ash, he held a trident, and wore Rudraksha malas. Coming near her, the sadhu said: “Why do you cry? Whatever is destined must occur. Every event unfolds through the actions of previous births. Therefore do not grieve unnecessarily; everyone who comes into this world must one day leave it.” This sadhu was none other than Lord Dattatreya Himself in disguise. He consoled her and tried to explain fundamental truths: life has no liberation without righteous action, human birth is meant for spiritual elevation, and the emotions of desire, anger, pride, attachment, and jealousy keep one bound to suffering. Joy and sorrow arise from one’s own karma, and remaining in the Guru’s presence gradually uplifts the soul. Yet the woman, drowned in grief, could not understand anything.

The husband had died, and Lord Dattatreya—in the form of the sadhu—explained the principles of *pativrata dharma* and the deeper meaning of *saha-gamana* (a wife following her husband in death). He never stated that every woman must practice it. He clarified its proper place, its prohibitions, and the correct conduct prescribed for a widow when *saha-gamana* is not allowed. Scripture is complete; it never gives half-rules. But today scriptures are forgotten, and life moves rootlessly, like a leaf tossed in the wind.

The purpose of one’s own dharma is to protect body, life, mind, and spiritual direction, hence the ancient teaching: “Swadharme nidhanam śreyaḥ; paradharmo bhayāvahaḥ.” The sages once asked Bṛhaspati, Guru of the gods: *What should a woman do if she is pregnant? If she has small children? If her husband dies abroad?* Bṛhaspati replied: * If she is pregnant, nursing, or if the husband is far away, saha-gamana is sinful. * She must follow the widow’s discipline: simple food, no adornment, and sober living. * Pilgrimages and vows should be performed with the permission of Lord Vishnu or under Guru’s guidance. * Certain acts bring merit: water-pot donation in Vaiśākha, lamp donation in Kārtika, offerings of sesame and ghee, offering drinking water, serving pilgrims, or gifting umbrellas and footwear.

Scripture also says: “The son is the support of the mother’s soul.” Hence a widow must act with wisdom. Lord Dattatreya explained all this, then gently touched her head and said: “Child, do what brings peace to your heart.”

Her grief dissolved, and clarity emerged. She said: “O Lord, I have come from far away. You are my mother, father, and Guru. Widowhood is filled with hardship and danger; society will blame me. I choose *saha-gamana*. Give me Your blessing.” Lord Dattatreya lifted her lovingly and said: “Your suffering is deep. Prepare yourself. First, go for My darshan at the Abhisheka. Take the sacred Rudra-Sukta water and sprinkle it upon yourself and your husband’s body.” He placed four Rudrakshas on the corpse, applied sacred ash, and gave further instructions. She obeyed and then asked the priests: “Before I complete sahagamana, I wish to have the final darshan of the Guru.”

She walked to the sangam. Sri Guru blessed her from afar: “May you be the mother of eight sons, ever fortunate.” The people wondered how such a blessing was possible when her husband was dead. Sri Guru replied: “What I have spoken, I have spoken. Now it is up to Mahadeva.” Because restoring life belongs to Mahadeva’s cosmic function.

Sri Guru said: “Bring the body.” They brought the dead husband. He instructed them to bathe it with the sacred water of the Rudra-Sukta Abhisheka. Then, with a compassionate glance, life returned to the man. The couple worshipped Sri Guru with overflowing devotion. Guru then revealed: “For the protection of this devotee, we have borrowed thirty years from his next birth and added them to this one. Only the Guru can do this, for the Guru holds mastery over the five elements and authority within the cosmic order. Only the Guru can intervene in the cycle of birth and death.”

Hearing this, everyone praised Him: “Victory to the Lord of countless universes, King of Yogis, Bhagwan Dattatreya!”