In days of old, the wise described society as composed of distinct varnas, or classes, among which the Brahmana stands foremost. Birth into a varna, however, is not determined by lineage alone; it is attained through three means: being born of one’s mother, undergoing initiation, and engaging in the study of sacred knowledge. The sages further taught that one must not abandon the duties proper to their own varna. To do so is to be called a heretic by the learned, for forsaking these duties brings about a fall from righteousness and exclusion from all religious responsibilities. Customs particular to each region are to be respected, provided they do not conflict with the established laws of tradition. Even if an action is righteous, it should not be performed if it neither leads to heavenly merit nor is approved by society. For those who are twice-born, marriage with women from other varnas is permitted. Certain practices, however, are to be avoided in the age of Kali: eating meat at funeral rites, entering the vanaprastha stage of life, embracing lifelong celibacy, and performing human or animal sacrifices. The wise declare that these should not be followed in this era, for otherwise one becomes fallen and is excluded from all sacred duties. Now, listen attentively to the general duties prescribed. One should seek alms for sustenance and teach others. Study of the Vedas is essential, as is accepting gifts from worthy individuals. One must act for the welfare of all beings, speak gentle words, refrain from speaking ill of others, and remain devoted to the worship of Viṣṇu. Sacrifices to the gods and study of the Vedas are to be performed. The wicked should be punished and the virtuous protected. The study of the Vedas is also prescribed for the Vaiśya. The Vaiśya may acquire wealth through trade, crafts, and handiwork, and should be devoted to serving Brahmanas, Kṣatriyas, and other Vaiśyas. Seeking the welfare of all, fostering auspiciousness, and speaking kindly—these virtues are declared by the sages to be common to all castes. In times of distress, a Brahmana may adopt the conduct of a Kṣatriya, but even in the greatest hardship, the twice-born should never take up the occupation of a Śūdra. Among Brahmanas, Kṣatriyas, and Vaiśyas, there are four recognized stages of life: student, householder, forest-dweller, and mendicant. O foremost of Brahmanas, Viṣṇu is pleased with one whose mind delights in the path of rightful action, and such a person attains the supreme state, from which there is no return. Now, O best of sages, listen further with an attentive mind. One who abandons the prescribed path is to be known as a heretic, excluded from all religious duties. For women, rites are to be performed without mantras, at the proper time and according to the prescribed rules. These should take place in the sixth, seventh, or even the eighth year. The Nandi Shraddha should be performed, preceded by the recitation of auspicious words; performing it with food alone is condemned, making one equal to a Chandala. The naming ceremony should be conducted at the end of the period of impurity, following the prescribed rules. Names given should avoid harsh or inauspicious syllables. In the seventh or eighth month, the ceremony should be performed as laid out in the Gṛhya texts. The rite of shaving the feet is to be observed, and for the tonsure, half of the hair should be arranged accordingly. Up to the completion of sixteen years, a secondary period is permitted for these rites. Thus, the wise have laid down the rules of conduct, the stages of life, and the rituals to be observed, ensuring that each may walk the path of righteousness and attain the highest good.