In ancient times, when the sacred muñja grass was not available, it was customary to fashion the holy thread from kuśa grass, tying it with one or three knots as tradition prescribed. Alternatively, the thread could be made from the wood of trees suitable for sacrificial rites, or from soft, unblemished materials that were considered pure. It was strictly taught that abandoning the sacred thread—whether out of desire, greed, fear, or delusion—would cause one to fall from righteousness. After one had bathed, it was essential to offer satisfaction to the gods, sages, and the groups of ancestors, honoring them with reverence. Throughout life, it was important to greet elders respectfully, in accordance with the principles of dharma. To attain long life and good health, one was advised to avoid laziness and similar faults. When pronouncing a name, the final 'a' should be clearly spoken, and the first syllable should be elongated, following proper etiquette. It was said that a person who was not greeted by the learned was regarded as a Śūdra, regardless of his birth. When greeting, the right hand should touch the right, and the left hand should touch the left, maintaining proper formality. The first greeting should always go to the one from whom knowledge was received. However, these rules did not apply in rites for the gods or similar ceremonies. Upon meeting a Vaiśya, one should wish him prosperity, while a Śūdra should be wished health. Among men, the elder of the caste and the paternal uncle were regarded as teachers. Among women, the mother-in-law, the eldest paternal grandmother, and the nurse held the position of teachers. One was expected to follow them in thought, speech, and action, and never to sit with them or argue for one's own sake. Even if endowed with other virtues, one who hated the guru would surely fall from grace. Of these teachers, the first three were considered the best, and among them, the mother was most highly honored. The elder brother and the husband were also counted among the five gurus. These five should be especially honored by anyone desiring prosperity. The son was instructed to abandon all else and devote himself to serving them, for through such devotion, he attained all righteousness. There was no way to fully repay these teachers—not in any manner. Without their permission, one should not undertake any other duty. Thus, the essence of dharma was declared, promising endless rewards after death. The disciple who followed these teachings enjoyed the fruits of knowledge and, after death, attained heaven. But one who erred in this regard would suffer a terrible hell after death. In this world, honor arises for the giver because of the benefit rendered. Then the venerable Manu declared to them those inexhaustible worlds. In the presence of elders and teachers, the younger should rise and say, “Here I am,” demonstrating respect and readiness to serve. A knower of dharma should address the teacher beginning with, “O revered sir.” A brāhmaṇa should always address him respectfully, as should those among kṣatriyas and others who desire prosperity. Even those endowed with knowledge and action, well-versed in many texts, must observe these customs. Among those of the same class, greetings should be exchanged only within that class. For women, the husband alone was considered the teacher; wherever he was present, he was to be honored as such. Five ranks of honor were declared, each preceding rank being superior to the next. Wherever such persons were found, they were worthy of respect—even a Śūdra who had attained the tenth stage. To the aged, to those bent with burdens, to the sick, and to the weak, special consideration was given. One should eat only after informing the teacher, speaking with restraint, and with his permission. In assemblies, a Kṣatriya should stand in the middle, while a Vaiśya should stand above the assembly. Thus were the customs and duties of respect and honor taught, guiding all towards righteousness and prosperity.