In the sacred observances of time, there are certain days held in special regard: the new moon, the full moon, the seventh day, and the day dedicated to honoring the ancestors. Particularly in the dark fortnight, the seventh day that merges with the preceding day, as well as the fourteenth day, are considered significant. Of all the vows and observances, those performed during the bright fortnight are especially praised and recommended. If it becomes difficult to carry out vows or rituals at the prescribed time, then the lunar day that falls in the forenoon should be chosen. However, if that lunar day extends into the evening, it is always appropriate to select it for night-time vows. When a ritual or vow is prescribed based on the conjunction of a lunar day and a specific constellation, careful attention must be paid: if the lunar day extends past midnight while joined with the constellation, or if the constellation itself spans two half-nights, or if both the constellation and the lunar day stretch over two half-nights, then it is the period when both are present together that is to be considered. There are particular auspicious combinations, such as when Mūla is joined with Jyeṣṭhā, or Rohiṇī with Agni. On such occasions, performing the rites during these lunar days brings special merit, especially when these conjunctions occur during the day. A lunar day is thus called auspicious when it coincides with a specified star and their conjunction is complete. For the vow of Śravaṇa Dvādaśī, it should be observed when the lunar day extends into sunrise, marking it as the proper time. All transitions of the sun from one sign to another—known as saṅkrāntis—are declared to be auspicious times. Among these, the sun’s entry into Cancer marks the beginning of its southern course, the dakṣiṇāyana. Similarly, transitions in Taurus, Scorpio, Leo, and Aquarius, as well as Libra and Aries, both at their entry and exit, are noted. The same applies to Virgo, Gemini, Pisces, and Sagittarius. The transition into Capricorn, however, is recognized as the starting point of the sun’s northern course, the uttarāyaṇa. In all these observances, the positions of the sun and moon at their setting are to be considered, if such a setting occurs. The moon, when visible, is called Sinīvālī; when it is not seen, it is known as Kuhū. Those among the twice-born who perform the śrāddha rites with fire should choose the Sinīvālī phase. If the new moon day stretches over two afternoons, or if the new moon is observed after midday, care must be taken. In the case of a deeply waning fortnight, the following day should not be chosen if it falls after the afternoon. If the waning is recent, then the observance should extend into the evening as well. When the lunar day is greatly increased, one should avoid those that are joined with the previous day. Similarly, if the increase is recent, those joined with the previous day should also be abandoned. If the new moon day extends over two middays, this too is to be noted. Now, let me explain the proper procedure for anvādhāna, especially as it relates to festival days. On such days, the first three tithis, or lunar days, are to be taken as a quarter portion each. There are two midday periods, as well as the new moon and full moon days, to be considered. O best of Brahmins, the prescribed time for observance is either set for the following day or immediately, depending on the expiration of the tithi. Thus, the immediate time or the next day is to be understood as the correct period when the lunar day expires. If the tenth tithi is combined in this way, the merit gained extends over three births. If the twelfth tithi occurs on the thirteenth day, it is considered even more auspicious. When the thirteenth tithi falls at the end of the night, I will now declare the proper course of action. Householders, in their rituals, seek accomplishment and prosperity, while ascetics desire liberation. At such times, even if the tenth tithi is mixed with another, one should fast on the eleventh tithi, upholding the purity and sanctity of the observance.