In this world, the name ‘Brahmā’ became renowned, for it was decreed so. Having received both a curse and a boon, Brahmā proceeded to create his son. As he rubbed his forehead with a hand holding the sacred fuel of sacrifice, his son emerged from within, approaching his father. This son was a wondrous being—he possessed five faces and ten arms, and in his hands he held a spear, a bow, a sword, and the very power of divinity. His appearance was striking: he wore the crescent moon upon his matted locks, his hair wild and ascetic, and his body was draped in a lion-skin garment. Known by many names—Bhava, Rudra, Pinākadhṛk, and Nīlalohita—he was the bearer of the bow, a figure of immense potency. First, Rudra created the seven mind-born sages, beginning with Sanaka and followed by others. He fashioned the gods in eight distinct forms and brought forth the animal species in five ways. Creation began with the gods, and after establishing Brahmā, Rudra extended his creative powers to those below. At this point, Brahmā addressed Rudra, saying, “You have been made unworthy of worship by me.” To this, the blue and red-hued Rudra replied, “Indeed, I have not been worshipped by you.” Brahmā’s mind became clouded, strengthened by passion and delusion. He boasted, “There is no god equal to me, by whom creation has been expanded.” Thus, Brahmā, now deluded and arrogant, grew proud, his five faces radiating self-importance. From his second face arose the Ṛgveda, with all its limbs, sub-limbs, histories, secrets, and collections. From that face, the gods and demons of wondrous brilliance emerged, accompanied by their sons. Yet, they became anxious, their minds lost, feeling overpowered by Brahmā’s energy, though there was no enmity among them. Seeking refuge, they said, “Let us seek shelter in the god, for our power has been diminished by Brahmā’s energy. We will propitiate that terrible one here with devotion, for there is no other means.” With supreme melodic skill, they composed a hymn to Maheśa, praising him: “Salutations to you, Lord of gods, great Lord—again and again, salutations. We, being deluded, do not know your supreme, incomparable greatness. You are the foundation of all beings, the cause of all creation. By the mere chanting of your names, creatures are freed from misfortune. Your forms, O great god, have pervaded everything completely. O Lord of all, no one comprehends you, the bearer of all forms, for you perform difficult acts at the turning of the ages and in due time.” With a cheerful face, Maheśvara was honored by the gods. Together with them, he began to play the enchanting melody called Mohana. Thus, he was praised by gods, sages, ancestors, and humans alike. Out of compassion, they prayed, “Grant us a boon as well. Whatever great strength, brilliance, and valor we possess—all powers were subdued, O Lord, but by your favor they returned again.” Rudra then went to the place where Brahmā, the embodiment of rajas and ego, was present. Brahmā, covered by darkness, did not recognize the god who had arrived. Then, the Soul of the Universe, the Creator and Essence of all, appeared before them. Rudra, shining with radiant brilliance, stood before Brahmā, overpowering him with his luminosity. His radiance was like the moon shining at night or at sunrise. Bowing with his hand and smiling, Rudra spoke gentle words.