Just as there is the rise of auspiciousness, so too does the inauspicious arise in its own time. Within the human body, there are countless subtle channels, especially concentrated in the region of the navel—seventy-two thousand in number, vast and intricate in their paths. Among these, three channels are regarded as foremost: one on the left, one on the right, and one running centrally through the body. The central channel is described as fiery, abundant, and filled with the essence of time itself. The right channel possesses a fierce nature, constantly drying up the world with its intensity. In the process of breath leaving the body, the left channel is active; when breath enters, it is the right channel that is engaged. When the vital breath is established in the channel called Piṅgalā—the right channel—it gives rise to powerful and sometimes harsh actions. Success in eating, in sexual union, and in battle is attributed to the activity of Piṅgalā; in these pursuits, it bestows accomplishment. However, for those seeking peace, liberation, and true success, it is the left channel, Iḍā, that should be employed, especially by those who rule over others. Yet, it is also taught that one should remember the left channel can be like poison, and the wise must always keep this in mind. In all movements, whether going or coming, the left channel is honored everywhere. The right channel, however, is praised for entry and for lesser actions. When questions arise about life or death, the central channel does not bring success. But if one inquires while fully established within the body, success is certain and beyond doubt. Still, if the inquiry is made while situated in a particular part, the success may be fruitless. In all things, one should act according to the nature of the matter—terrible actions for terrible matters, gentle actions for gentle ones. The yogi who is skilled in yoga should recognize the signs of death. In every case, one must direct the movement of the vital wind equally, balancing the energies. The left channel is simply called the left, and the right is considered auspicious. Life is sustained by life, and where there is emptiness, haste arises. All these processes occur without distinction when the full channel is engaged. As long as the sixty-fourth inquiry is present in the full channel, the first among them prevails. When the vital wind follows the left-hand path, success in action is granted. Yet, if the left channel flows elsewhere, the syllable—perhaps a mantra or sound—is considered irregular; in the right channel, the syllable is regular. When the breath enters Piṅgalā, one should perform the rite of pacification. There is nothing to be given in such moments, and no deliberation is required. That direction brings victory, and in emptiness, one should indicate a pause. The wise person is one who knows both victory and defeat. Having accomplished what is required, one attains the goal, and the journey remains always auspicious. If one inquires while present at the proper place, success is certain. There can be no doubt that success arises when the questioner stands before the adept. Whether moving or unmoving, one should proceed accordingly, step by step. Upon hearing the words of the questioner, their import should be marked with a sound like a bell. In the body, fire is above, water is below, and wind is situated across. Above symbolizes death, below signifies peace, and across is where the wise perform expulsion or letting go. Thus concludes the sixty-seventh chapter, entitled "The Determination of Auspicious and Inauspicious Results of the Rise of Planets," found within the Section on Conduct, known as the First Branch, in the Purva-khanda of the glorious Garuda Mahapurana. Now, let it be told: I will speak of the examination of gems. There was once an asura named Bala...