One whose mind is constantly caught up in desires and similar distractions is known as deluded; such a person is not truly wise. In contrast, those noble souls who live in this world without attachment are recognized as virtuous by the wise. At this time, the shining Lord—radiant as a jasmine blossom—addressed the assembled gods, assuring them, “Return peacefully to your own abodes; he will not trouble you.” With these words, he granted them a boon. Content in themselves, the hosts of gods departed as they had come, returning to their heavenly realms. Then, the formless and supreme Brahman, self-luminous and immaculate, manifested before Mṛkaṇḍu. Seeing this divine being adorned with celestial weapons, Mṛkaṇḍu was filled with astonishment. Before him stood the serene Creator, face glowing with grace and radiating the splendor of the entire universe. Overwhelmed with reverence, Mṛkaṇḍu bowed down flat upon the ground before the eternal Lord of gods. Placing his hands on his head, he began to offer heartfelt praises. He offered homage to the One beyond all limitation, the supreme imitator, the highest among the supreme, the ultimate deliverer. Though possessing many forms, this Lord remains untouched; Mṛkaṇḍu worshipped that supreme, praiseworthy Lord. He revered the incomparable one, the very source of devotion, the compassionate protector of devotees, the Lord of all, the original object of praise. Freed from delusion, he bowed to that supremely pure being, the remover of worldly existence. He praised the one served by the world, the refuge of the universe, the ocean of compassion. Pleased, the Lord—bearer of the conch, discus, and mace—attained supreme satisfaction. With utmost affection, he spoke: “O steadfast one, choose a boon. Ask for whatever your mind desires. The vision of me is rare, even for those not worthy, and is thus cherished. Even the righteous, those initiated and free from passion and envy, find this vision difficult to attain.” Mṛkaṇḍu replied, “By this alone I am fulfilled, O Janārdana, bearer of the world. To that supreme state, O Acyuta, which is attained by seeing you—my vision will never be fruitless at any time.” The Lord assured him, “That indeed I shall uphold; my people do not speak falsehood. You shall have a son endowed with all virtues, long-lived, and possessing his true form. O best of sages, when I am pleased, nothing is impossible in all the three worlds.” With these blessings, Mṛkaṇḍu respectfully withdrew and concluded his austerities. O wise one, you may wonder what Hari, the descendant of Bhṛgu, did then. He beheld the Vaiṣṇava illusion at the flood brought about by the long-lived one, and his devotion to Viṣṇu became firmly established, directed toward the sage Mārkaṇḍeya. Resolute, peaceful, self-controlled, and fulfilled, he entered the life of a householder. His wife, with mind, speech, and body, was wholly devoted to her husband. At the end of ten months, she gave birth to a son of extraordinary brilliance. All the auspicious birth rites were performed, strictly according to the prescribed rules. In the boy’s fifth year, filled with joy, he was initiated. Mārkaṇḍeya’s father instructed him, “O son, the twice-born must always be greeted with respect, as prescribed. Vedic duties must be performed, always preceded by study of the Vedas. You must avoid what is forbidden, such as improper speech and the like. Bear no hatred toward anyone; act always for the good of all.” Thus, the great sage Mārkaṇḍeya was instructed by his father.