Recalling the events, I was deeply amazed by what had transpired, and a thought arose within me: “This auspicious-faced maiden is destined only for Gautama; she is not suitable for anyone else.” Resolving thus, I decided to give her to Gautama, yet I pondered how the resolve and patience of all had been shaken by this young girl’s beauty and presence. At that time, the gods, myself, and the sages called her Ahalya. Seeing the gathered gods and sages, I proclaimed loudly before them all: “She shall be given only to that one, O radiant-browed ones, who first circumambulates the earth—not to another, no matter how many times he tries.” Upon hearing my words, the entire host of gods set out, eager to circumambulate the earth for Ahalya’s sake. When the assembly of gods departed, Gautama, the lord of sages, also sought to win Ahalya and made his own effort. Meanwhile, O Brahman, Surabhi, the wish-fulfilling cow, was half-delivered. Gautama saw her and, remembering that this earth is her, circumambulated Surabhi. He then circumambulated the emblem of the lord of gods. Having circumambulated both, Gautama—the best of sages—completed a single circumambulation for all the gods. None of the others were able to complete the circuit of the earth. With this realization, the sage Gautama approached me. Bowing respectfully, the wise Gautama addressed me: “O lotus-seated, soul of the universe, again and again I bow to you. O Brahman, I have circumambulated the entire earth. Whatever is proper in this matter, O lord of gods, you yourself know.” Through the yoga of meditation, I understood Gautama’s accomplishment and said, “This beautiful-browed maiden is given to you; your circumambulation has been accomplished.” I further explained, “Know, O best of sages, that dharma is difficult to comprehend, even through the Vedas. Surabhi, half-born, is indeed the earth with her seven continents. The circumambulation of that earth has been performed; by circumambulating the liṅga, one attains the same fruit.” Therefore, with all effort, O Gautama, steadfast sage, I am pleased with your patience, knowledge, and austerity. This maiden is given to you, O tiger among seers, as the best in the worlds. Having said this, I gave Ahalya to Gautama. When their wedding took place, the gods arrived at the proper time and witnessed the circumambulation. They saw Gautama and Ahalya, whose union brought great joy, and as they looked on, the gods were amazed. When the wedding was over, all the gods returned to heaven; Indra, lord of Śacī, also went to heaven, having seen Ahalya. Pleased at heart, I granted to the great-souled Gautama the sacred Brahmagiri, bestower of all desires and auspicious. There, Gautama, the best of sages, delighted in Ahalya’s company. Hearing the holy tale of Gautama, Indra in heaven became intrigued. Indra, taking the form of a Brahmin, came to Gautama’s hermitage to see the sage and his blameless wife. Seeing Gautama’s dwelling, his wife, and his prosperity, Indra formed an evil intention and gazed upon Ahalya. Driven by desire, Indra perceived neither himself, nor another, nor place, nor time, nor the fear of the sage’s curse. Absorbed always in meditation, proud of his lordship among the gods, his body burning with longing, Indra wondered, “How can I enter? How can it be?” Thus, dwelling in the form of a Brahmin, he found no opportunity. But once, the great sage Gautama, having performed his morning rites, went out from the hermitage with his disciples to see the hermitage, Gautamī, the Brahmins, and various grains. Indra, the best of sages, observed this and thought, “This is the moment.” He then acted according to his desire. Assuming Gautama’s form, Indra, desiring pleasure, approached the beautiful-limbed Ahalya and spoke to her: “Drawn by your virtues, recalling your form, I stumbled in my steps.” Saying this with a smile, he took her hand and entered within. Ahalya, not recognizing him, believed him to be Gautama and enjoyed herself as she pleased, while the real Gautama was away with his disciples. Whenever Indra came, Ahalya spoke sweetly, greeted him, uttered loving words, and pleased him with her virtues. Not seeing his wife, the wise sage Gautama found it a great wonder. O Nārada, all saw the eminent sage standing at the door. The guardians and household servants of the Agnihotra hall, frightened and amazed, spoke to Gautama: “O revered one, what is this marvel? You are seen both outside and inside; you have entered within with your beloved, and yet you remain outside. Ah, this is the power of austerity! You assume many forms.” Hearing this, astonished, Gautama entered within and asked, “Who is here, O dear Ahalya? Why do you not speak to me?” Hearing the sage’s words, Ahalya spoke to her lover: “Who are you, disguised as a sage? You have committed a sin!” Saying this, she swiftly rose from the bed, frightened. The sinful Indra, out of fear of the sage, became a cat. Seeing his beloved terrified and altered, now defiled, Gautama was angered and said, “What is this reckless act?” As he spoke thus to her husband, Ahalya, ashamed, did not reply.