Alas, there are those who never truly know the suffering of humiliation or similar pains. Yet, as time passes, the body inevitably grows old, and with age, strength is taken away. Reflecting deeply on these truths, O best of Brahmins, Vedamali became devoted to the path of righteousness. Moved by this realization, Vedamali took away half of the wealth he had earned through his life. Resolving to destroy the sins he had accumulated, he began to make generous gifts of food and other offerings on the sacred banks of the Ganges. His heart yearned for greater purification, so he journeyed to the abode of Nara and Narayana, seeking the solitude of the forest to practice austerities. The forest he entered was adorned with clusters of trees, blossoming and bearing fruit, a place of serene beauty. It was further sanctified by the presence of aged sages, devoted to selfless service. In this holy place, Vedamali beheld the Supreme Brahman—a radiant mass of light—being praised by those around. He saw a sage subsisting on nothing but fallen leaves, and Vedamali, filled with reverence, bowed low before him. This ascetic, his mind firmly fixed on Narayana, lived on roots, tubers, fruits, and similar forest fare. Humbly, Vedamali approached and spoke to this best of speakers, saying, “Lift me up, O greatly fortunate one, O wise one, by giving me knowledge.” The sage, smiling kindly, addressed Vedamali, recognizing his virtues. “I shall briefly tell you, my child, 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. Do not reveal the righteous acts you have performed, even if someone asks. Always honor your guests, and do so without causing conflict within your own family. Worship the Lord of the universe, Narayana, as I consider best. And at the outset, according to the rules, be devoted to service. Likewise, perform the anointing with great care and attention. Beautify the path and provide a lamp in Vishnu’s temple. With circumambulations, salutations, and the recitation of hymns, honor the Lord. Also, daily recite the Vedanta, as much as you are able. Know that liberation from all sins is certainly attained through knowledge. Thus, one who is always devoted to knowledge, even if he has obtained only a trace of wisdom, is truly blessed.” Inspired by these teachings, Vedamali began to reflect within himself: “Who am I? What are my actions?” Absorbed in such inquiry, he remained tireless, contemplating day and night. Still yearning for clarity, he approached the knower once again, bowed, and spoke these words: “Who am I? What are my actions? What is my birth? Tell me, O sage. How will the mind, driven by the wind of ignorance, attain true existence?” The sage replied, “Ego and the workings of the mind do not belong to the Self, O wise one. How can I, who am void of caste and other attributes, perform any action? How can I, who am without form and immeasurable, perform any action? How is action spoken of for one whose nature is uninterrupted? How are action and birth described for the infinite?” Thus, Vedamali’s journey into the heart of wisdom continued, guided by the words of the sage and his own sincere inquiry into the nature of the Self.