When the sacred Dvadashi vow is observed, the devotee first offers the consecrated image, along with the prescribed gift, to the revered teacher. With this act of devotion complete, the observer maintains control over his speech and partakes of food, surrounded by pure-hearted people. Whoever upholds the Dvadashi vow in this manner, as a human being, is assured of attaining the supreme abode of Vishnu—a realm where sorrow does not exist. Even the simple recitation of this vow bestows upon the devotee the merit equivalent to that of performing the great Vajapeya sacrifice. This sacred practice is a destroyer of all sins, brings merit, and removes every form of suffering. It fulfills all desires and bestows the results of every vow undertaken. By performing this observance, even the gravest and most numerous sins are pacified. The devotee begins by bathing properly and cleaning the teeth as prescribed. After washing the feet and rinsing the mouth, one should remember Lord Narayana with a pure heart. With deep devotion, the worship of both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narayana is performed, uttering the words, “Obeisance to Narayana,” with unwavering intent. Hymns are then recited with full concentration, and the Lord is worshipped with devotion. Into the sacred fire, sesame seeds and ghee are offered, and the homa is carefully performed for the removal of all sins. Once the homa is completed, the devotee recites the Shanti Sukta with heartfelt devotion. In the same spirit, the fast is offered to the deity, filled with devotion, accompanied by the humble prayer: “I shall partake, O Lotus-eyed One; O Supreme Lord, be my refuge.” Approaching the ground on the knees, which is adorned with white flowers and unbroken rice, the devotee offers arghya to the moon, praying with joined palms. Standing facing east, gazing upon the moon, the devotee addresses Lord Narada, saying, “To you, Lord of Rohini, brother of Lakshmi, I offer my salutations.” With senses controlled, purified, and avoiding the company of heretics, the devotee worships the deity once more, as best as he is able. Together with relatives, servants, and others, he eats, all the while observing restraint in speech. Narayana, the faultless one, is worshipped with devotion, and the concluding ritual is performed according to tradition. The ritual space is adorned with garlands of flowers, canopies, and banners, surrounded by mirrors, fans, and water pots. A pot filled with water is placed above, and atop it, an image of Lakshmi-Narayana is installed. With offerings of food, various eatables, and oblations, the devotee serves with devotion and controlled senses. On the following morning, Vishnu is worshipped again, just as before, in accordance with the prescribed method. Brahmins are fed with sincerity and restraint, according to the devotee’s ability. The wise then perform the fire offering in the proper manner at the flag-raising ceremony. In this life, enjoying great pleasures with sons, wives, and grandsons, the devotee ultimately attains the abode of Vishnu—a place difficult even for yogis to reach. This vow destroys all sins, brings great merit, and causes the pleasure of Vishnu Himself. It is revered by Brahma and the other gods—what more need be said? The result of this vow is equal to the merit of raising the divine flag.