He who engages with these teachings—reciting them or even listening to them—attains the highest state, the supreme among all worlds. The very act of hearing these words destroys all sins, and bestows upon the listener the gifts of eloquence and intelligence. Such a person comes to be known as Vedamāli, one accomplished in the Vedas and their many branches. Vedamāli’s life became absorbed in the pursuit of wealth, not just for himself but for his son, his friends, his wife, and all his possessions. In his quest, he spoke with and accepted gifts from all, even from those considered outcastes. He undertook pilgrimages, sometimes for the sake of others and sometimes for his wife, ever seeking prosperity and merit. Among his kin were two splendid brothers, Yajñamāli and Sumāli, whom he supported with affection and many means. Yet, as his riches grew, Vedamāli began to count his wealth, curious to know its measure. When he finished, he was astonished at the abundance he had amassed, pondering the sources of his fortune: austerity, trade, and other endeavors. Yet, even as his coffers overflowed, his desire for gold grew insatiable—he longed for riches equal to Mount Meru itself, and no matter how much he gained, he always wished for more. Though the eyes and ears grow old, desire alone remains ever youthful; strength is sapped by age, but longing only grows stronger. Even the most peaceful man may become angry, and the wisest may fall into delusion. Thus, if one seeks lasting happiness, the wise must abandon hope and craving. For hope can destroy the dignity of noble birth in an instant, while even a lowly outcaste who gives a little surpasses the high-born who is stingy. Those who cling to hope and pride do not understand the suffering of humiliation and loss. The body itself ages, strength withers away, and yet desire persists. Reflecting deeply on these truths, Vedamāli, O best of Brahmins, turned his heart to the path of righteousness. He resolved to part with half of all the wealth he had earned, determined to destroy the sins he had accumulated. On the banks of the sacred Ganges, he gave away food and other offerings, seeking to purify himself. Yearning for spiritual fulfillment, Vedamāli journeyed to the forest abode of Nara and Narayana—a place adorned with blossoming, fruit-laden trees and graced by venerable sages devoted to selfless service. There, he beheld the Supreme Brahman, a radiant being praised by all. He saw a sage subsisting on fallen leaves, and with great humility, Vedamāli bowed before him. With mind fixed on Narayana and nourished by simple roots, tubers, and fruits, Vedamāli addressed the sage, the best of speakers: “Lift me up, O greatly fortunate one, O wise one, by giving me knowledge.” The sage, smiling and eloquent, replied to the virtuous Vedamāli: “I shall briefly tell you what is difficult for those who have not mastered themselves. Never engage in slander or malicious gossip. Be devoted to the worship of Hari, and avoid the company of fools. Renounce the world as you would your own body, and you will attain peace. Abandon hypocrisy, arrogance, and harshness.” Thus, the path to liberation was revealed to Vedamāli, lighting his way to the highest state.