The sages, moved by a longing that words could not hold, turned to Sutji and asked:. “Tell us, Sutji,how can Shiva’s offerings and the Bilva tree draw us closer to his divine embrace?”

Sutji smiled, his voice warm with devotion. “Imagine a gift from Shiva himself-a simple offering, called Naivedya, that’s far more than food. It’s a piece of his light, a key to freedom. When you approach it with a pure heart, even looking at it can melt away your mistakes, like the morning sun burns off the fog. And when you partake, it’s as if you’ve been washed clean, your soul lifted by a powerful blessing that touches your whole family, spreading peace to every corner of your life.”

He lowered his voice, a gentle warning in his tone. “But this gift is sacred, meant for places where Shiva’s presence shines true, like a special stone or symbol that carries his energy. When you offer it, face north, where the stars align with his rhythm, and keep your focus steady. If the space feels wrong, if the energy isn’t pure, step back. This holy gift can’t be tainted-it must be received with the same love it’s given, or it loses its magic.”

Sutji’s gaze drifted to a Bilva tree nearby, its leaves catching the sunlight like tiny mirrors. “And then there’s the Bilva tree-Shiva himself in living form. Its roots dig deep into the earth, its branches reach for the sky, connecting you to something vast and eternal. Pour water at its base, and it’s like dipping your soul in every holy river, washing away life’s heaviness. Offer flowers, light a small lamp beneath its shade, and you’ll feel Shiva’s blessings-new beginnings, joy, and a heart free from guilt. Share a simple meal under its branches, maybe something made with love, and it’s as if you’ve fed countless souls, lifting scarcity from your life.”

He continued, his words a gentle guide. “There are two ways to walk with Shiva. One is to engage with the world, offering a bit of rice, asking for what you need in this life. The other is to let go, to seek something deeper, marking your forehead with ash to burn away pride and longing, holding Shiva close in your thoughts. Whichever path you choose, let it be a surrender, a quiet offering of your heart.”

Sutji’s voice softened, leaving a sacred stillness in the air. “Shiva’s Naivedya and the Bilva aren’t just things-they’re his living presence, calling you to connect. But come with an open and true heart, for only then can you step into his light.”