Narada, his heart gladdened, spoke words steeped in righteousness. In response, Somadatta, devoted to virtue, introduced himself, confessing his troubled past. “I am known as Somadatta, steadfast in the path of dharma. Yet, I have reached this pitiable state because I once showed indifference to my teacher. Worse still, I have devoured Brahmins by the hundreds and thousands. One who constantly brings fear to the world and is addicted to eating meat—such was my way. I have suffered the consequences of such actions, O illustrious one; therefore, let no one follow this path.” Somadatta’s curiosity was great, and he implored, “In the same way, Sarave, tell me everything, for I yearn to know.” The sage replied, “I have come; I will tell you. Listen attentively, O Sarave. Those who expound the scriptures, who teach righteousness, and instruct in the science of ethics; those who guide others in vows, offer protection from fear, and give food; those who initiate, perform consecrations, and conduct the sacred sacraments—these are all regarded as gurus, worthy of the highest honor and respectful salutation. All these are indeed equal, O Sarave; understand this well.” He continued, “Whether one narrates the greatness of the guru, listens to it, or gives approval—all these are always worthy of equal honor. There can be no doubt. Those who teach the Vedas and those who explain the mantras, likewise; the learned one who recites the Purāṇas imbued with righteousness; the acts of worshipping the gods and the fruits that arise from such worship—all these are of the highest value. The Purāṇas, O king, are the very essence of all the Vedas’ meanings. Whoever strives to cross the ocean of worldly existence will find guidance in them, for all dharmas are declared in the Purāṇas, O king. They are truly meant for happiness in this world and the next. Through them, the mind becomes pure and ever devoted to righteousness. Among the devotees of Vishnu, discernment toward righteousness arises. Those who desire the fruits of righteousness, wealth, pleasure, and liberation should seek the Purāṇas.” Somadatta then confessed further: “As for me, I am the one who, out of pride, spoke against the all-knowing sage Gautama. Once, I went to worship the Supreme Lord. Gautama, tranquil and wise, was a treasury of brilliance. I worshipped the god Shiva, teacher of the entire universe. But whoever, knowingly or unknowingly, shows disrespect to the teacher brings ruin upon himself. Yet the person who serves the teacher with reverence is blessed. Because of my disrespect, I was cursed and burned within by the fire of hunger.” As Somadatta, the best of Brahmins, spoke thus beneath the banyan tree in the night, a certain very righteous Brahmin arrived, carrying water from the Ganga on his shoulder and singing praises to the Lord of the universe. Upon seeing this sage, the piśāca and the rākṣasa who lurked nearby found themselves unable to attack him. The rākṣasas spoke, “Because of the greatness of name-chanting, we rākṣasas have been forced far away. O Brahmin, the covering of the divine Name protects you from great danger.” By the glory of the infallible Lord, both the rākṣasas and the Brahmin attained supreme peace.