Who · Lord Śiva, Vīrabhadra, Dakṣa, Brahmā, Lord Viṣṇu
The story · Hearing of Satī’s death, Lord Śiva became greatly angry, and his soldiers attacked the sacrifice. They destroyed the arena, and Vīrabhadra beheaded Dakṣa. Brahmā and the demigods approached Lord Śiva, and Brahmā asked him to show compassion toward those bewildered by material illusion. Pacified, Lord Śiva returned with them to the sacrificial place, where Dakṣa acknowledged his offense and accepted the punishment as mercy. Lord Viṣṇu appeared and accepted the offerings, and Dakṣa worshiped Him, then separately worshiped Brahmā and Lord Śiva.
What it teaches · Dakṣa recognizes mercy even in correction for his offense. Lord Viṣṇu is the enjoyer of all sacrifices and the Supersoul of all living entities.