Shiva Purana – Chapter 3: The Marriage of Parvati and Shiva

The Marriage of Parvati and Shiva

After Sati's self-immolation, Shiva was plunged into deep sorrow over the separation from his beloved wife. Renouncing the world, he became absorbed in meditation on Mount Kailash. However, destiny had written another union for them; Sati was reborn as Parvati, the daughter of King Himalaya.

Parvati's Austere Penance

Parvati, unaware of her past life memories, was attracted to Shiva from childhood. As she grew older, her desire to have Shiva as her husband grew stronger. She expressed her devotion to Shiva to her mother, Maina. Her mother explained that it was not easy to attain Shiva, as he was a great ascetic. Parvati resolutely said, "Mother, if Shiva is to be attained, then penance is the only way. I will perform severe penance to become his Ardhangini (better half)."

Parvati obtained permission from her father, Himalaya, and began intense penance. She gave up food and water, subsisting only on air and fruits. Enduring cold, heat, and rain, she remained engrossed in Shiva's meditation. The fire of her penance spread across the three worlds. "O Shiva, O Mahadeva! Have mercy on me," Parvati prayed silently. "Grant me permission to serve you. Make me your Ardhangini!"

The Burning of Kamadeva

The gods attempted to convey Parvati's penance to Shiva, but Shiva remained steadfast in his meditation. Then, Indra ordered Kamadeva to break Shiva's penance. Kamadeva arrived at Kailash with the spring season and attempted to disturb Shiva with his flower-tipped arrows. Rati, Kamadeva's wife, was distressed. She knew how terrible Shiva's fiery anger could be.

Shiva's meditation was broken, and he opened his third eye. From his fiery anger, Kamadeva was instantly reduced to ashes. Rati began to wail. The gods pleaded with Shiva to revive Kamadeva, but Shiva became absorbed in his penance again. The gods understood his divine play. Shiva thought to himself, "This was a test of love. Parvati's power of love has burnt Kamadeva, only then will the path to new creation be paved."

The Marriage of Shiva and Parvati

Finally, Shiva, pleased with Parvati's penance, appeared before her. He proposed marriage to Parvati, which she gladly accepted. The joy of Himalaya and Maina knew no bounds. They immediately began preparations for the wedding. All the gods, Gandharvas, and sages were invited to the wedding. A celebration was held on Mount Kailash, where the divine marriage of Shiva and Parvati was solemnized.

Lord Vishnu performed the Kanyadaan (giving away the bride), and Lord Brahma recited the wedding mantras. Shiva and Parvati became one for eternity. Parvati now became Shiva's Ardhangini, and the world gained a new power. Their marriage established the glory of love and devotion. After this marriage, Shiva gave the world the message of knowledge and love, so that everyone could make their lives meaningful. Following this, the stories of Shiva's glories and powers will be narrated. The tales of his wondrous valor and his compassion for devotees will continue.