Linga Mahā Purana
44 - The mode of gifting Vishnu
Sanatkumara said:
1 -4. Hereafter, I shall mention another rite which is the greatest of all excellent gifts. At the time and spot mentioned before, in the Mandapa, in the middle of the Kunda or on the bare ground in the presence of Shiva, the devotee shall out of affection worship Vishnu and the lotus-born deity by means of the following mantras along with the Pranava duly uttered.
“We know Narayana. We meditate on Vasudeva. Hence, may Vishnu urge and guide us.”
“Svaha unto Brahma the old brahmin, to the creator of the universe, to Shiva, to Hari. Svadha, Vaushat and Vashat.”
5-9. After worshipping in accordance with the injunctions he shall perform Homa. All materials shall be offered for Homa by two priests in accordance with the injunctions. There shall be two Rutviks who have mastered the Vedas through a preceptor. With them in view, the devotee shall give monetary gifts to the brahmins. One hundred and eight gold coins to each of them separately is decent. Garments, ornaments and other adornments shall accompany the gift. Though the preceptor is one he represents the glorious Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshvara. They shall be given the gift, separately. The brahmins shall be fed. Worship of Shiva shall be performed beginning with ablution, etc. in due order.
Summary of chapter 154 of the Linga Mahā Purana is as follows:
The historical account of Sage Agastya is narrated, detailing his intense penance, deep devotion to Śiva, and great exploits across the southern realms of Bhāratavarsha. Through the divine grace of Mahādeva, Sage Agastya humbled the Vindhya mountains, drank the ocean to assist the devas, and established numerous sacred Śiva shrines.