There are those rare souls who have freed themselves from the bonds of possessiveness, ego, attachment, and the urge to accumulate. Their lives are marked by a constant bestowal of fearlessness upon all beings, through their actions of body, speech, and mind. These Brāhmaṇas, dwelling in sacred places and performing various sacrifices, walk a path of profound sanctity. Through their dedication, they attain the exceedingly rare and imperishable union with Brahman itself. Having transcended the cycle of rebirth, they become firmly established in the ordinance of Maheśvara, the great Lord. Some embrace the responsibilities of household life, remaining ever devoted to the six sacred duties prescribed for them. Such devotion brings them even greater rewards, freeing them from all suffering. By the grace of divine union, they become sovereigns of their own destiny, enjoying their possessions without attachment. Surrounded by thousands of women, they dwell wherever they please, coming and going as they wish. Among men, they are the most desirable, supreme among all castes, and blessed with wealth. They are deeply knowledgeable in dharma, devoted to Rudra, and accomplished in every branch of learning. Living by the study of the Vedas, subsisting on alms, and having conquered their senses, they lead a life of discipline and fulfillment. When their time on earth ends, having enjoyed all pleasures in abundance, such a person becomes a member of Rudra’s exalted retinue known as the Guhyakas, held in the highest esteem. He attains equality with these celestial beings, endowed with similar sovereignty, and becomes revered among gods, demons, and mortals alike. For thousands upon thousands of years, and countless more, he rules with splendor. Eventually, when his time in that realm concludes, he takes up residence as a celibate hermit in the sacred Mahākāla forest. Upon his death there, he rises in a divine chariot, radiant as the sun, and ascends to Rudra’s realm. There, he delights in the company of the Guhyakas, enjoying their flawless world for thousands of ages, always joyful and honored by all. In that world, he becomes a man of great wealth and beauty, desired by women. If he chooses the life of a forest-dweller, he abstains from consuming forest herbs, eating only simple morsels, crushing stones, or using a toothless mortar for his food. His hair is matted and loose, he bathes three times a day, carries a good staff, and sleeps upon the earth, even when it is infested with insects, thorns, and stones. He lives on forest herbs and continues to grant fearlessness to all creatures. Ever devoted to Rudra, he dwells in sacred fields as a sage in the great forest of Time. Vyasa, listen well to the destiny of those who dwell in these sacred places. Devoted to Rudra, they travel in celestial chariots that move at their will. They are surrounded by groups of apsaras, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of singing and musical instruments. Even if they fall from Rudra’s world, they are honored in Vishnu’s realm. Should they descend from there as well, they are born among the islands of the earth, where they enjoy prosperity. Whether among mortals or immortals, they are born handsome, fortunate, charming, renowned, and ever graced by Rudra. Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, or Shudras—whoever dwells in these sacred fields, all are devoted to Rudra in every way, acting for the welfare of all beings. When their time comes, they ascend to Rudra’s abode in splendid chariots. And for those who offer their very bodies into the fire of knowledge, Rudra’s world remains imperishable and eternal, where they dwell forever with the secret, divine beings.