Long ago, one deeply versed in the meaning of the Puranas composed the Purana Samhita, a great collection of ancient lore. It is known as the Yajur Veda, for it is used in sacrificial rites—thus is its name and purpose established in the scriptures. Endowed with extraordinary vigor, this sage, together with Vedic priests, undertook the noble work of preserving the sacred knowledge. Paila, having received the Rigvedic hymns, divided them into two collections. One he entrusted to Indrapramatta, and the other to Bashkala. For a month, Paila diligently taught his devoted disciples, who were committed to service and the welfare of all. He further divided the knowledge, giving a third portion to Parashara and another to Yajnavalkya. The illustrious Manduka, a highly fortunate soul, was also instructed by him. Satyasrava, Manduka’s son, who was steadfast in truth and righteousness, received the teachings as well. In turn, Satyasrava taught Satyaśri, a great soul devoted to dharma and truth. The followers of Satyaśri, learned and dedicated, continued the study of the scriptures with unwavering devotion. Bashkala and Bharadvaja became the founders of their respective branches of this sacred knowledge. In time, at the great sacrifice performed by King Janaka, the twice-born Brahmanas assembled in large numbers. However, discord and destruction befell them. At Janaka’s Ashvamedha sacrifice, a debate arose among the learned. All these events, as they transpired, have been recounted to you. Thousands of sages arrived at the sacrifice, gathering in many groups. Seeing the multitude of assembled Brahmanas, curiosity stirred among them. King Janaka, resolute in his mind, made a decision. He offered villages, jewels, and maidservants to the sages as gifts. Whatever wealth was brought forth, it was to be awarded to whoever proved himself the foremost among the scholars. Hearing Janaka’s proclamation, the sages, steadfast in their Vedic knowledge, began to challenge one another, each displaying his formidable mastery of the scriptures. Disputes arose: “This is mine, not yours; speak otherwise—why do you boast?” they declared. Amidst them was another sage, learned and poetic, a son of Brahma himself, born from a portion of the Creator. In a melodious voice, he spoke: “Take this home, child; this is mine, there is no doubt. If any learned one is displeased, let him summon me without delay.” Then Yājñavalkya, composed and serene, spoke to the assembly, a gentle smile on his lips: “Let us speak according to our ability, questioning one another. In a thousand ways, with auspicious meanings and subtle insight, let us engage. Those endowed with excellent qualities are also the king’s examiners.” All the sages gathered on one side, and Yājñavalkya stood alone on the other. Each sage was questioned individually, but none could provide an answer. Yājñavalkya then addressed Śākalya directly, naming him as his disputant. The wager was set by the sacrificer and accepted as agreed. In the presence of the sages and his attendants, Yājñavalkya declared, “You seek to seize for yourself the great wealth of knowledge. But know this: the true strength of those devoted to Brahman is the vision of the essence of knowledge. O Brahmins, whose wealth is found in questions of desire, let us speak of such questions.” Hearing these words, Śākalya became furious, so overcome with anger that he fainted in the midst of the assembly.