Having understood the proper place, time, and all the relevant circumstances, and discerning no contradiction within himself, the wise one proceeds. In this way, he ensures that no suffering arises for any being, for such discernment is the cause of harmony. This understanding supports the performance of one’s duties and stands firmly against actions that should not be done. The one who can distinguish between righteousness and unrighteousness speaks thoughtfully, considering the wishes of others. Even those in the world who are hostile, foolish, or delight in misguided ways—by recognizing the difference between right and wrong—are ultimately led to follow the path set forth by the Veda. That which inspires devotion to Hari and is cherished by the virtuous is to be valued above all. Indeed, all this world is Viṣṇu; Viṣṇu is the source of everything. He is the embodiment of all the gods, and I worship Him with proper rites. Viṣṇu, the very essence of all beings, is whole and eternal. Equanimity toward both friend and foe, along with self-control, O king, have all been described; these qualities lead men to the fulfillment of austerity. The great eight-syllabled mantra destroys all sins, bringing delight to Viṣṇu and granting every accomplishment. Uttering “Salutations to the Blessed One, to Vāsudeva” is supreme, and, O king, the result is the same even if the twelve syllables are not fully recited. He who bears the conch and discus, who is ever peaceful—Nārāyaṇa, free from affliction—He who wears a crown and earrings, adorned with many ornaments, the god clothed in yellow garments and honored by gods and demons alike, the indwelling lord, embodiment of knowledge, perfect and eternal—may well-being be with you. May you attain success in your austerity and happiness as you desire. Having attained supreme delight, the royal sage entered the forest to undertake his austerities. In the great and sacred place called Nadeshvara, he performed exceedingly difficult penances. He always honored his guests and remained ever devoted to the sacred fire offering. With leaves, flowers, fruits, and water, he worshipped Hari three times each day. Meditating on the god Nārāyaṇa, he subsisted only on fallen leaves. Then, he began a yet greater austerity, ceasing even to breathe. For sixty thousand years, he remained intent on holding his breath. When the gods, along with Agni and the ancestors, beheld this, they were seized with fear. They praised and bowed to the Lord of gods, the protector of all who seek refuge. The wise declare Him to be pure by nature, complete in being, and the embodiment of knowledge. To Him, the very form of the universe, the lord at the beginning of the world—Puruṣottama—we bow. To that venerable lord, the ancient person, we bow to Viṣṇu for the fulfillment of all human aims. We bow to Him, the soul of time, the lord of the gods, the very embodiment of human goals. To that primeval god, the abode of all qualities, the teacher of all, the refuge of the infinite. We bow to the god whose nature is existence, consciousness, and supreme bliss, who is beyond form and attributes. We bow to that supreme, imperishable one, beloved of sacrifices, performer of sacrifices, and the purest of all. Then, the Lord revealed the deeds of that royal sage to the gods. Nārada, the divine sage, went to the place where the royal sage was practicing his austerities. There, the teacher of all worlds appeared before the king.