The torments that await the unrighteous are countless and truly terrifying to behold; their descriptions alone are enough to inspire dread. Therefore, let me briefly explain to you the essential nature of righteousness and unrighteousness, so that you may understand the true path. When a gift is made by one who knows the Self, that offering becomes imperishable, never fading with time. And listen further: the merit gained by one who not only gives but ensures that the gift is properly used is truly great. Such a person enters the abode of Vishnu and delights there for an entire age. The fruits of actions performed in the spirit of Brahma are so vast that even the Creator himself does not count them. Who, indeed, is capable of describing the merit of one who gives life itself? Such a benefactor is protected at all sacred places, and through that act, all austerities are considered accomplished. He too attains the highest result; what more need be said? Even if one lived for a hundred years, it would not be possible to recount the number of merits earned by such deeds. All the sins of the doer are certainly destroyed—there is no doubt. Freed from all sins, he dwells in heaven for a hundred years. And the one who inspires such giving also attains that result, feeling great joy. He too remains in heaven for a hundred years, freed from millions of sins, and obtains the merit equal to that of creating a sacred pond—this is the eternal teaching. Even simply hearing this account frees one from all sins; there is no doubt about it. Now, Mahāpratīpī, a learned king, was always devoted to worshipping Brahmins. His queen, greatly blessed, was named Campakamañjarī. Together, they always resolved to follow the righteous teachings of the scriptures. For it is said that one who speaks without the authority of scripture is called a slayer of Brahman. The king always listened to his teachers and followed the prescribed rules, ensuring that his land was protected by righteousness. Once, this king went hunting in a great forest. By fate, he found no game and became extremely weary. In his exhaustion, he came upon a dried-up lake and paused to reflect. He wondered, “How might there be water here, by which I, the king, could survive?” With determination, he dug a pit the size of his hand and, to his relief, obtained water. Accompanying him was his minister, Bhūmiśa, also known as Buddhisāgara. The minister explained, “O King, this lotus-pond was once filled with rainwater.” Humbly, he continued, “Therefore, O sinless one, may you be pleased, my lord, and give me your command.” The king was greatly pleased and eager to take action himself. By the king’s order, Buddhisāgara also joyfully undertook the task. He constructed the lake, making it fifty bows in length and breadth on all sides. When the work was complete, he reported everything to the king. Thirsty travelers, O king, would now find pure water there. By this meritorious act, the minister wiped away his sins and went to the world of the Lord of the World, my master. Citragupta himself reported all these deeds to me. Therefore, Buddhisāgara is worthy to ascend the chariot of righteousness. He did so, ascending the chariot named Righteousness. Having departed this world, he came joyfully to my abode and offered his respects.