Parvati's Penance Story – Chapter 4: Difficulties and Tests

Difficulties and Tests

In the previous chapter, we saw how Parvati, under the guidance of Narada Muni, began her penance to have Shiva as her husband. The daughter of the Himalayas, renouncing royal comforts, became engrossed in severe vows and practices. The news of her steadfastness and determination reached the heavens, causing Indra's throne to tremble.

Indra's Fear and Obstacles

Indra was always concerned about the security of his throne. He feared that Parvati's severe penance might lead her to attain the heavens, thus usurting his position. He harbored the apprehension that Parvati's penance might challenge his authority, and therefore, he decided to create obstacles in her penance. The king of the gods' heart was filled with envy and selfishness. He sent Kamadeva and other celestial nymphs to disrupt Parvati's penance.

Indra said, "This Parvati is causing upheaval in the three worlds with her penance! If she pleases Shiva, what will become of our power? Kamadeva, celestial nymphs, go immediately and break her penance! Remind her of royal pleasures, ensnare her in worldly attachments." Kamadeva bowed his head and said, "As you command, Lord of Gods. We will use all our might to distract her."

Parvati's Unwavering Devotion

Kamadeva and the celestial nymphs together created various temptations. Sometimes beautiful dances, sometimes melodious music, sometimes delicious food, and sometimes attractive attire – they tried to lure Parvati in every way. Kamadeva shot his flower arrows, but Parvati's mind was not disturbed even slightly. Her eyes were solely absorbed in the meditation of Shiva. Her body was indeed enduring hardship, but her mind was more steadfast than the Himalayas.

Parvati opened her eyes, looked at Kamadeva, and with her divine radiance, reduced him to ashes. The celestial nymphs fled in fear. Parvati thought to herself, "These worldly attractions cannot divert me from my goal. My heart is dedicated only to Shiva."

Service by Animals and Birds

Impressed by Parvati's penance, the animals and birds of the forest also became eager to serve her. Deer brought her fruits, peacocks shaded her with their feathers, and cuckoos entertained her with sweet songs. Lions and tigers also sat peacefully around her, as if protecting her. Nature itself had become an aid to Parvati's penance. The forest goddess herself brought cool water and flowers for Parvati.

A old doe gently approached Parvati and spoke to her in her own language, "Mother, why are you undertaking such severe penance? How can your delicate body endure this suffering?" Parvati smiled and said, "To attain Shiva, I am willing to endure any hardship. My love is my strength."

Preparation for Shiva's Test

Pleased by Parvati's penance, Lord Shiva decided to test her. He disguised himself as a Brahmin and set off towards Parvati's hermitage. In the next chapter, we will see how Shiva tests Parvati and how Parvati impresses him with her devotion and knowledge. This test will be the final stage of her penance and will pave the way for their union.