When people, out of ignorance or confusion, act in ways that are not proper, it is the duty of wise masters to gently restrain them and guide them onto the right path. It is said that things which do not have a rightful owner should never be taken or appropriated for oneself. Should anything become tainted by the influence of demons, it may be purified—either by the use of sesame seeds or through the touch of a pure-hearted person. As the sacred rites begin, the host should, according to his means, prepare an abundance of food and water for sipping, ensuring that all is ready for the honored guests. Approaching with respect, he offers each guest a stick for cleaning their teeth, a gesture of hospitality and ritual purity. The offerings should be made in vessels of udumbara wood, and always, the Vaiśvadeva rite must be performed first, sanctifying the proceedings. Next, water is presented for washing the feet and for sipping, each in the correct order, honoring the guests and the ancestors. Seats are arranged facing east, each one furnished with three blades of sacred darbha grass. The darbha, with its tips pointing south, is sprinkled with water mixed with sesame seeds, purifying the space and inviting auspiciousness. The host then respectfully invites the guests to be seated, saying, “Be seated,” ensuring that each has a separate seat—even the divine maternal ancestors are given their own place. Yet, care must be taken not to overdo these arrangements, for excess in five particular things is cautioned against. The one who performs these rites should be learned, of good conduct, and free from any inauspicious marks, for only such a person is fit to carry out these sacred duties. In the shrine of the deity, he first makes an offering to the divine before proceeding with the rest of the ritual. It is said that even if only a single learned Brahmin is present, he should be fed with respect. All those who desire food among the assembled should also be fed, for honoring guests at the Śrāddha is a sacred duty. The Brahmins must strive with effort to properly honor the guests, for if any are neglected or disrespected, both they and the giver may be reborn as crows—there is no doubt in this teaching. Certain beings must be kept far from the Śrāddha: cocks, pigs, and dogs are not to be allowed near. Those who wear blue or ochre garments, and heretics, are also to be avoided. All these rites must be performed only after the Vaiśvadeva rite has been completed. The host continues with fragrant waters, head coverings, incense, and ointments, following the prescribed order. Facing north as instructed, he recites the verse “Viśve devāḥ,” invoking the presence of the universal gods. He sprinkles water with the “Śaṃ no devyā” verse, and barley grains in the same manner, purifying and sanctifying the offerings. Perfumes, garlands, incense, and other offerings are presented according to his ability. The invocation is then performed with the “Uśantastv” verse, as befits a learned man. Again, water is sprinkled into the vessel with the “Śaṃ no devyā” verse, and sesame seeds are added in the same way. For the ancestors, a vessel is placed upside down with this rite, marking their honored presence. When the time comes, and permission is given with the word “Do,” one who wears the sacred thread offers the oblations. The ancestral rite is performed with the sacred thread over the right shoulder, while the Vaiśvadeva rite is conducted as in the homa. In service to the ancestors, further offerings are poured out in the same manner. Oblations are then offered to Agni, the divine carrier of offerings, accompanied by the sacred word “svadhā.” Whether this is performed in the presence of Mahadeva or in a cowshed, the mind should remain focused and pure. The ground is prepared—a sandy spot, smeared with cow dung for sanctity. In its center, three lines are drawn using a single blade of darbha grass. With deep concentration, the host offers three balls, or pindas, fashioned from the remains of the sacred offerings. Bowing to the food and to the ancestors, he honors them with the prescribed mantras. He attentively smells the pindas, ensuring they are properly placed and respected. To complete the offering, he presents a variety of foods: different kinds of meat, cakes, krisara, and milk-rice, along with other foods and drinks as desired. In this way, with devotion and care, the Śrāddha rite is fulfilled, honoring both the ancestors and the divine, and bringing blessings to all involved.