You are the lord of the celestials, steadfast and unwavering, Rudra, master of all creatures, Shiva. Victorious and bearing the mighty trident, you are called upon to grant refuge and rescue to those who seek your protection. With deep affection, the copper-eyed one addressed the golden-eyed, offering a boon: “Choose whatever you desire, auspicious one, except for Ambika.” In response, reverence was shown to the feet of the mother, Ambika, who is ever worthy of worship. A humble prayer was made: “Whether my actions are bodily, mental, verbal, sinful, or ill-conceived, may you grant me unwavering devotion as my boon.” Shiva then declared, “You are freed from the nature of a demon; Bhṛṅgī, become the leader of the attendants.” With his own hand, Shiva cleansed Andhaka, healing him and freeing him from all wounds. The great souls, bowing to the three-eyed one, departed. Shiva showed Bhṛṅgī to the assembly, affirming, “This is certainly not Andhaka.” The bull-bannered one, now the leader of the attendants, was praised by all. Shiva instructed the assembly, “Go to your own abodes; enjoy happiness in heaven. Having accomplished your tasks, proceed afterwards to the highest heaven.” Released by Maheśa, the gods returned to their celestial realms. When the foremost of the gods, led by Śakra, had departed, the blessed Shiva remained. The attendants, seeing Śaṅkara, mounted their respective vehicles and went to the realms where wish-fulfilling cows and trees yielding all desires abound. Once the attendants had gone their own ways, Maheśvara continued his work. After two thousand years, the boon-holder returned. Upon his arrival, adorned with all auspicious marks and features, the goddess summoned Jaya and the others, who came swiftly. Then the three-eyed Shiva, seeing Girijā and also Andhaka, spoke: “O goddess, this Andhaka has been made your servant by me.” He then addressed Nandi and Andhaka, the chief of the hosts: “O son, quickly destroy Andhaka.” So addressed by the Lord, Nandi and Andhaka performed a praise most meritorious, sin-destroying, and in accord with the scriptures. Shiva spoke: “Son, I am pleased. Ask for the highest boon.” The response was heartfelt: “May devotion to the Lord and to you, O Ambika, always be mine.” Remaining in worship of Śarva, Andhaka became the lord of the hosts. Assuming a form that inspires fear, Bhairava, the lord, created it through his own devotion. This sacred narrative is to be recited among the best of the twice-born, by those seeking righteousness, long life, health, and wealth, always. “My own task has been accomplished,” it was declared. “You ought to explain it to me, O Brahman. What has been done is for the welfare of the world and for oneself.” Those who were defeated by the hosts of gods, eager to go to the netherworld, found themselves in a place covered by creepers and filled with intoxicated beings. The mountain, fragrant with mādhavī blossoms and worshipped by sages, was pleasing to Hara. Led by Maya and Tāra, they chose this place for their dwelling. The southern wind blew gently, cool and mixed with fragrance, as acts worthy of universal honor were performed among the hosts of gods.