In the midst of a profound effort, one that exceeded even the bounds of the world’s vastness, a radiant mass of splendor appeared. Yet, from within this brilliance, a voice spoke: “I am neither Nārāyaṇa nor any other; I do not possess the power to rise from here or to turn back what has come.” Another then addressed him, asking, “Who are you, and from where have you come?” The reply was remarkable: “By the command of Śiva, I was once a ketaka leaf, endowed with consciousness. Desiring to dwell upon the earth, I have now arrived here.” Hearing these words from the ketaka leaf, the lotus-born—Brahmā—felt reassured. He looked around and saw that countless universes were attached all about to this single one. After passing through forty thousand yugas, he had finally fallen down to this place. As he spoke, the lotus-born bowed in reverence. Brahmā then confessed, “A rivalry was created by me, together with Viṣṇu. In our contest, both of us forgot the glory of Śiva. Let us set aside that shameful conversation for now, for I am still here. The friendship of seven steps is spoken of; may you consider me thus. Leaving aside those who do not praise, you ought to grant your favor.” He continued, “Assuming the forms of a swan and a boar, we sought to dispel our mutual equality. Yet, I do not know such a state of longing to see its end. I am utterly exhausted, as if separated from my very life. Therefore, make this request of your friend fruitful for me. This must be done by you; with hands joined, I ask this of you. Even when one does not perceive, one has attained equality with me. Now, the responsibility for avoidance rests with you alone. Speak this single statement before the wielder of the discus. I have seen the highest point; here I stand as witness. This one is greatly honored, just as a father is honored by his grandfather. Having said this, let my great assistance be rendered by you.” To Viṣṇu, who dwelled in the brilliance and at the summit, Brahmā spoke these remaining words. Viṣṇu, discerning, realized that he had not seen the summit. He thought, “To show me favor in my ignorance and to destroy the pride of this fate. By my inability to perceive the root, the pride of my brilliance was checked. Now, Maheshvara is praised, free from arrogance. Yet, even now, due to unvanquished pride, Brahmā has obtained a false witness. Today, he is able to remove all suffering.” Viṣṇu reflected, “Thus, for one who has committed offense, who is ungrateful, who betrays the teacher—victory to you, whose form is like the sun; victory to you, whose form is like the nectar-hand. Victory to you, whose form is like the universal fire; victory to you, whose form is like the wind-bearer. Protect me, transcending the three qualities; protect me, embodiment of time. You are the creator of all worlds, the protector of all embodied beings. You are subtler than the subtlest and greater than the greatest. The Vedas are your very breath; the universe is the splendor of your artistry.” Thus, in humility and reverence, Viṣṇu praised the greatness of Maheshvara, recognizing the supreme truth and artistry that pervades all creation.