Having carefully counted his wealth with his own hands, Vedamali was astonished by its abundance and sat pondering over the fortune he had amassed. He reflected on how this wealth had come to him—through austerity, through trade, and by other means. Yet, even as he possessed so much, a restless desire stirred within him: he longed for gold as vast as Mount Meru itself, never satisfied, even if he were to obtain countless treasures. He realized that though he gained all that he wished for, new desires always arose, one after another. The eyes and ears may grow old, he thought, but desire alone remains ever young. Strength fades with age, but desire seems to grow more vigorous. Even a tranquil man can be overtaken by anger, and a wise man can become utterly deluded under its influence. Contemplating this, Vedamali understood that, for lasting happiness, one must abandon hope and endless longing. He saw that even noble birth is rendered meaningless by unchecked desire. A lowly outcaste who gives, even a little, surpasses one who is noble by birth but does not give. Alas, such people never truly know the suffering of humiliation and the like. The body grows old, and strength is taken away by age. Reflecting deeply, Vedamali, O best of Brahmins, resolved to devote himself to the path of righteousness. He took half of the wealth he had earned and set it aside. Determined to destroy the sins he had accumulated, he made gifts of food and other offerings on the banks of the sacred Ganges. Then, seeking a higher path, he journeyed to the abode of Nara and Narayana, entering a forest known for its austerity. This forest was adorned with clusters of blossoming and fruit-laden trees. It was beautified by the presence of aged sages, devoted to service and spiritual practice. There, Vedamali beheld the Supreme Brahman—a radiant presence being praised by the ascetics. He saw a sage subsisting on fallen leaves, and with deep reverence, Vedamali bowed to him. This sage, his mind fixed on Narayana, lived on roots, tubers, fruits, and similar fare. Humbly, Vedamali approached and spoke to this best of speakers: “Lift me up, O greatly fortunate one, O wise one, by giving me knowledge.” The eloquent sage smiled and replied to Vedamali, who was virtuous and sincere: “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 find peace. Abandon hypocrisy, arrogance, and harshness. Do not reveal the righteous acts you have performed, even if asked. Always honor guests, and live in harmony with your family. Worship the Lord of the universe, Narayana, as I consider best. At the forefront of your duties, be devoted to service. Likewise, perform the anointing with great attention. Make the path beautiful and provide a lamp in Vishnu’s temple. With circumambulations, salutations, and the recitation of hymns, and also by daily reciting the Vedanta as much as you are able, you will progress. Liberation from all sins is certainly attained through knowledge. Thus, one who is always devoted to knowledge, even if only a little, has attained the essence of wisdom.” Thus, Vedamali received these instructions, and the path of righteousness and knowledge was opened before him.