Long ago, Svāyambhuva Manu, the primordial lawgiver, imparted the codes of conduct to the ancient sages. Inspired by his teachings, these sages composed the treatises on dharma, establishing the path of righteousness for all beings. By the command of Brahmā, the Creator, they were entrusted with upholding these sacred codes in every age, ensuring that righteousness would always prevail among those who followed them. In every era, it is the one who knows the dharma-śāstra—the scriptures of righteousness—who acts as the agent and guide in all matters of conduct. Supporting this knowledge are the sciences of light (Jyotiṣa), logic (Nyāya), and Mīmāṃsā, which, together with the four Vedas, form the complete foundation of dharma. Outside of these, true righteousness cannot be found. By my own command, said the Lord, these sages establish and preserve these teachings until the very dissolution of creation itself. When the time allotted to others comes to an end, those who have perfected themselves through these paths enter the supreme state, transcending the cycle of birth and death. For it is knowledge united with righteousness that reveals the supreme Brahman, the highest reality. Those who are always devoted with faith, firmly established in yogic mastery, worship with single-minded intent. They are humble, wise, ascetic, and steadfast in their vows—renunciants, householders, forest-dwellers, and celibates alike. To such worthy souls, I swiftly dispel all darkness with the radiant lamp of knowledge. Ever-blissful in this world, they are freed from the endless cycle of rebirth. Everywhere, together with Menā, let all worship me. Therefore, take refuge in my entire form, which is the very origin of time and of all things. Be steadfast, devoted, and intent on worshipping that supreme reality, for it is infinite, immortal, and free from all limiting attributes. Those who truly see knowledge itself enter into me alone. When the impurities of the heart are destroyed by knowledge, one attains a state of no return—liberation from rebirth. O King, this state cannot be reached by any other means; therefore, take refuge in me. By worshipping me, you shall indeed reach that supreme state, for it is not known otherwise. Worship with effort, and you will cast aside all bondage. Worship with devotion, and you will attain that highest reality. Know that I am the beginningless, infinite, supreme, and great Lord—unborn and ever-auspicious, eternal bliss itself, without form or qualities, beyond all darkness. This is the self-experienced, unknowable reality, established in the supreme space. In the terrible ocean of worldly existence, beings are born again and again, caught in the cycle of samsāra. To end this birth and bondage, that Brahman must be sought. Abandon attachment to unrighteousness, be established in dispassion, and, by discerning the self with the self, become fit for Brahmanhood. Such a one attains the highest, undivided divine devotion, unwavering and pure. Freed from all worldly existence, he abides in the very essence of Brahman. The one foundation of the infinite and imperishable is the great Lord, who rests upon his own Self. For the sake of liberation from all worldly existence, always seek refuge in the Lord. Having considered all this, you should act as you see fit. Reject Daksha, your father, who reviled the great Lord. For, born from Menā’s body, I have taken you alone as my father.