108 - The greatness of Lavanadhenu

The priest said:

1. O king, now listen to the rules relating to Lavanadhenu (cow of salt).

2. On the floor smeared (with cow dung), spread kušha grass over an antelope’s skin and place on it a cow made of salt of the measure of sixteen prasthas, and a calf a fourth of its size.

3. The feet are to be of sugarcane, face and horns of gold, hoofs of silver.

4. The mouth to be of gur, teeth of fruits, tongue of sugar, nose of sandal paste, eyes of jewels and ears of leaves, abdomen of sugar candy and udder of butter.

5. The tail of silken threads, back of copper, hair of darbha and the milking vessel of bronze. It should be decorated with bells and jewels.

6. Worship should be performed with sandal paste, flowers and incense. A pair of cloths should be placed on it and the whole thing gifted to a Brahmin.

7. This gift may be made at any time if it is to ward off evil effects of planets or stars. But eclipses, change of month and solstices are special occasions for it.

8-9. The recipient should be a Brahmin who is well-versed in Vedas, is of good conduct and of a good family.

10-11. This should be done along with a pair of cloths, gift and a woollen shawl and gold according to one’s ability.

12. Holding the tail and according to the prescription laid down before.

13-15. The (special) mantra should be uttered “O Brahmin, I bow to you; receive this cow adored by all gods, who knows the tastes of all beings and who is veritably Rudra. O goddess, bow to you; fulfil all my desires”.

16. Such a gift with a thousand or hundred gold pieces, leads one to the heaven of Shiva.

17. He who listens to this intently or recites for others, is removed from all sins and goes to the world of Rudra.