Having performed the threefold ritual bath in the pure, sacred waters of the Kampā river, Ambika devoted herself to acts of virtue. She planted trees, gave generous gifts, and honored every guest who came to her door. In the heat of summer, she practiced severe austerity by standing amidst five blazing fires; when the rainy season came, she lay upon the bare ground. All this she did for the sake of beholding the great and virtuous sages who had come to that holy place. Sometimes, Ambika herself would wander into the forest to gather tender shoots. On the pure bank of the Kampā, she shaped a linga out of sand with her own hands. With deep devotion, she worshipped the Sun, offering red flowers and sandalwood, incense, lamps, and food, all according to the prescribed rites. Her heart was full of faith as she performed these acts of worship. It was then that Lord Shiva himself appeared, wishing to test Ambika’s devotion. Suddenly, a great flood of the Kampā river surged forth, threatening to sweep away everything in its path. A voice called out, “Arise, O Goddess! A mighty flood is swelling forth.” Hearing these words, Ambika closed her eyes and withdrew into meditation. She reflected deeply, troubled by this obstacle to her worship, for the virtuous on earth generally attain auspiciousness without hindrance. She realized that the sand linga she had so lovingly made would surely dissolve in the overwhelming flood. Recognizing that this deluge was none other than Shiva’s own maya, Ambika resolved to protect her symbol of worship. With unwavering determination, she embraced the sand linga firmly with both arms, holding it so tightly that the mark of her breast was imprinted upon it. Eyes closed, heart absorbed in meditation, she stood motionless, focused solely on her concentration. From her deep devotion arose trembling, sweat, modesty, affection, and even a playful intimacy. Then, a divine voice, embodied and resonant, spoke to her: “This sand linga, worshipped by you, will possess enduring glory. Beholding your austerity and the righteousness you have observed, I have manifested in a radiant form upon this earth. I stand as the one who obstructs the harsh accumulation of sin from all the worlds. “Sages, accomplished Gandharvas, and great-souled yogis have come here. In ancient times, during the battle between Brahma and Krishna, an essence of intoxication arose from both their lineages. Brahma took the form of a swan, and Vishnu that of a boar. Pleased, I manifested and bestowed the boon they desired. Again, both addressed me by the name Arunachala. “Go now and approach the illustrious sage Gautama, who is devoted to me. There, I will reveal to you my radiant form.” Having listened to these words spoken by Shiva, who is beyond all parts and forms, Ambika was filled with wonder. Afterwards, all the gods and sages arrived at that sacred place to serve and worship. The gods and steadfast sages remained there, for that holy spot destroys all sin and increases all good fortune. Shiva, in his formless aspect, declared, “I remain here day and night. Through my worship, my presence in the world, and the protection of my dharma, I grant all desires. Therefore, she is called Kamakshi, the fulfiller of wishes, out of compassion for all who seek.