Overcome with trembling, sweat, modesty, affection, and playful intimacy, she stood in deep devotion before the sand linga she had lovingly worshipped. In that sacred moment, a divine voice, embodied and resounding, spoke gently to her: “This sand linga, which you have worshipped with such devotion, possesses undying glory. Witnessing your austerities and your steadfast observance of dharma, I have assumed a radiant form upon the earth. I stand as a barrier, obstructing the harsh accumulation of sin from all the worlds. “The sages, accomplished Gandharvas, and great-souled yogis know this truth. Long ago, during the fierce battle between Brahma and Krishna, the essence of intoxication arose from both their lineages. In those times, Brahma took the form of a swan, and Vishnu assumed the form of a boar. Pleased by their devotion, I manifested myself and granted them the boons they desired, right at that very place. Again, both invoked me by the name Arunachala. “Now, go and seek the illustrious sage Gautama, who is devoted to me. There, I shall reveal to you my radiant form.” Having listened with reverence to these words spoken by Shiva, the One without parts, she felt blessed. Soon after, all the gods and sages arrived at that sacred place, eager to serve. The gods and steadfast sages remained there, their presence sanctifying the spot, for it destroys all sin and increases all good fortune. “I, too,” continued the divine voice, “assuming the partless form, remain here day and night. Through my worship, my presence in the world, and the protection of my dharma, all desires are fulfilled. Therefore, she is called Kamakshi, the fulfiller of desires. Indeed, I am the unimpeded offspring of Shambhu, the god of gods. “There, after performing intense austerity and pleasing Shambhu, true devotees who served at his feet were quickly dismissed, and she was constantly attended by her devoted companions. Within her heart, she beheld the radiant and peaceful Lord of the Aruṇa mountain. Filled with curiosity and devotion, she bowed before the immovable linga. “In that sacred place, the great sages—Atri, Bhṛgu, Bharadvāja, Kaśyapa, and Aṅgirās—constantly practiced austerities, seeking to attain their desired boons. This divine linga, known as Aruṇādri, is regarded by all as supremely worthy of worship. “Again, all the great sages requested her to accept their hospitality. Guided by the devoted sages, she approached the place they indicated. In the morning, after gathering sacred sticks, grass, and fruits, she entered the forest. Instructing her disciples, the righteous one ventured deep into the woods. “When asked, ‘Where has the sage gone?’ it was answered, ‘He will return here in a moment.’ Upon his return, they welcomed him with rising, offering a seat, water for his feet, arghya, and kind words. ‘Be patient for a moment, son,’ she said, while others went to that place. “In an instant, the area became filled with splendid palaces adorned with many jewels. From afar, the sage beheld his hermitage, now shining with hundreds of celestial mansions. With the eye of knowledge, he saw all of Gaurī’s meeting and perceived the sacred events that had taken place. Then, from his swift-moving disciples, he heard all that had transpired.