Simply by beholding him, people are elevated to the highest state. Through his sacred actions—such as bathing and drinking—he purifies the world, guiding it onward to the city of Indra. The greatness of his form as the liṅga is truly beyond all description; words cannot capture its full glory. In truth, there is not the slightest difference between these forms—any distinction is made only by those whose understanding is clouded. Those lost in the ocean of ignorance and sin are the ones who create such divisions. At the end of the age, it is said that Hari himself assumes the form of Rudra. In the guise of Brahma, he creates; at dissolution, Hara absorbs all three forms back into himself. Those who sow division among these divine manifestations fall into the most dreadful hell. But one who sees the unity attains supreme bliss—this is the heart of the scriptures. Janardana is always present there, abiding in the form of the liṅga. By seeing him, the best among men attain the supreme light. It is he who has circled the earth with all its sacred islands, oceans, and mountains. In those holy places, Hari is present—sometimes as Shiva, sometimes as Achyuta. Wherever the Purāṇa is recited, Hari is present there as well. For those who practice devotion to him, the Ganga becomes a daily source of protection. Honoring the one who speaks these sacred texts is esteemed as highly as worship at Prayāga. Hari is ever praised as the savior of those adrift in the ocean of worldly existence. There is no deity equal to Vishnu, nor any truth higher than the guru. Just as the ocean is supreme among rivers, so is the Ganga regarded as the highest of all. Liberation is the greatest of all gains, and no river can compare to the Ganga. She cures the disease of worldly existence, and so she should always be served with devotion. Know, O twice-born, that one who lacks devotion to these two—Hari and the Ganga—is truly fallen. Both Hari and the Ganga possess the power to destroy all sins. Endowed with the energy of Vishnu, they are equally renowned for granting desires. Set in motion for the welfare of all the worlds, their purpose is supremely beneficial. In the same way, devotion to Tulasi and to Hari is pure and virtuous. Where the divine protector dwells, people attain the supreme abode of Vishnu. For those protected by the Ganga, she grants the fruits of their wishes. Freed from all sins, such a person reaches the highest state; abandoning demonic qualities, one attains the supreme goal. O best of sages, please tell me about Sagara. O Brahmin, he attained the supreme and most excellent abode of Vishnu. Sagara ruled the entire earth righteously, ever devoted to dharma. As lord of men, he established everyone in their proper duties. He satisfied the earth-gods with gifts of cows, land, gold, garments, and more. Having relieved others of their suffering, he considered himself fulfilled. In his realm, the people were adorned with celestial ornaments and were truly happy. The earth yielded fruits and flowers without the need for tilling. With unrighteousness removed, the people were protected by righteousness. Yet, in time, a great pride arose among them, accompanied by jealousy, brought on by a sense of loss.