With supreme devotion in his heart, one resolved to strive earnestly, recalling the many births that had come before. Freed from all sins, such a soul attains the highest state of existence. Consider, then, the fortune of those who worship sincerely, especially when joined by peaceful devotees. Immersed in the worship of Hari, they discover endless satisfaction, their hearts filled to overflowing. Whether worship is performed knowingly or unknowingly, those who offer it are granted liberation. For death is always near—thus, one must ever practice the very essence of righteousness. When even the body itself stands in constant peril, what security can be found in wealth or worldly possessions? Let, therefore, one’s devotion to Janardana, the God of gods, be pure and unwavering. All sacrifices may be easy to perform, but true devotion to Vishnu is exceedingly rare and difficult to obtain. Compassion for all beings can be found in anyone, yet association with the virtuous, service to the sacred tulasi, and steadfast devotion to Hari are treasures seldom encountered. One should worship Jagannatha above all else, for this is the very essence, O best of the twice-born. To be devoted to Hari alone is the true elixir of life. The city of Death is ever close at hand. Therefore, O foremost of Brahmins, worship sincerely if you desire true enjoyment. Those great souls who have surrendered themselves are, without doubt, fulfilled. Those who worship Maha-Vishnu, the destroyer of distress for those who bow before him, not only uplift themselves but also bring twenty-one generations of their family to the abode of Hari. Whatever is offered—be it water or even a simple fruit—he alone is dear to the Blessed Lord. Such worshippers reach the world of Vishnu and remain there until the dissolution of creation itself. They purify the entire world with the dust of their own feet. In that sacred place, all the gods are present, as is the glorious Hari. There, all auspicious things increase day by day, O twice-born one. There, neither planets nor spirits nor any such beings cause affliction, for the Blessed Madhusudana himself is present. Know this, O twice-born: even a house acquired by the most auspicious means is like a cremation ground if it lacks the ancient law, inquiry, and treatises on dharma. All the Vedas and their branches are proclaimed to be the very form of Vishnu. Those who realize this too attain the supreme state, where all actions come to rest. By hearing or reciting these teachings, one’s sins are destroyed immediately. A very great dialogue once took place, and now I shall recount it—listen attentively. Surrounded by a host of Apsarases, he spoke to Brihaspati: “O Lord, what was the nature of creation in the past kalpa of Brahma? What were the deeds performed then? Please describe them properly, for even the events of the present day seem difficult for me to know. He who knows—about him I shall tell you today. Listen well.” Having enjoyed divine pleasures, he came here from the world of Brahma. Thus addressed by his teacher, Indra was accompanied by him. Surrounded by hosts of deities, they went to the abode of Sudharma. Upon seeing the sage as was proper, Indra worshipped him with deep respect. Filled with wonder in his mind, he spoke with humility, eager to learn the mysteries of creation and dharma.