In the sacred time when the gods themselves turn to rest, Vishnu reclines upon a couch prepared with a tiger skin and a bundle of matted locks tied together as his bedding. This marks the beginning of the gods’ night, coinciding with the southern course of the sun. As Vishnu sleeps upon this divine couch, he reveals to all the worlds the supreme path of dharma. During this period, significant observances are held. On the fifth day, Vināyaka is honored, and on that same day, homage is paid to Dharmarāja. The eighth day is dedicated to Kātyāyanī, and the ninth to the Lady of the Lotus abode. On the eleventh day of the dark fortnight, even the Sādhyās, those celestial beings, enter into sleep, O Brahman. As the gods slumber, the season of rains descends upon the earth. The crows, heavy with their young, also rest during this time. In this sacred cycle, the second day is celebrated as especially auspicious and holy, known as the awakening from the unempty bed. When the time of awakening arrives, Vishnu is seated upon his couch, joined by Lakṣmī. The air is filled with the fragrance of flowers, and the wise offer fragrant substances in worship, making heartfelt supplications to Madhusūdana. They pray that, by his grace, their beds may never be empty and that the destruction of their household life may not occur, seeking protection and prosperity through truth and devotion to the immeasurably powerful Vishnu. During this sacred night, it is prescribed to eat food free from oil and alkaline substances. While partaking in this pure meal, one should recite, “May Lakshmi’s bearer be pleased with me,” and offer the appropriate oblation. As long as the sun continues its journey, even among heaps of scorpions, these observances are maintained. When the sun enters Libra, Hari desires worship; after this period, Shiva awakens. According to one’s means, bedding and coverings are offered, ensuring that separation does not afflict anyone in the household. When the eighth lunar day coincides with Mrigashira, it is remembered as the proper and auspicious time for worship. Dwelling in the sanctuary during this time is considered inexhaustible worship. After bathing, one should venerate the three-eyed Lord Shiva with flowers of the thorn-apple. The offering is then given to a Brahmin, along with gold, as prescribed for the twice-born. Incense of sarja resin is offered, and the oblation consists of honey and sweet drinks. One prays, “May Hiranyaksha be pleased with me,” and the prescribed gift to accompany this is sesame. Incense of shri-vasana resin is also appropriate, with a honey-rice pudding as oblation. One should respectfully pray for the favor of the stationary cows, avoiding harsh words. In the auspicious month of Margashirsha, bathing and worship with curd is especially meritorious. The learned should recite salutations, wishing for the pleasure of Sharva. Honey resin incense is offered, along with oblations of honey and sweet cakes. The Lord of the gods is addressed with reverence: “Obeisance to you, O Three-eyed One.” Further offerings include incense, sandal paste applied to the feet, and a food offering of rice mixed with sesame. One prays, “May the great god, the consort of Uma, be pleased with me.” At the conclusion of the fast, the ceremonial bathing of the Three-eyed One is performed in due order, accompanied by a plea for grace: “Be gracious, O Lord, I am afflicted; please remove my sorrow as is fitting.” The fast should be observed with care, O best of the twice-born. Worship is performed with jasmine flowers, incense, and sandalwood. Rudra is to be pleased with a pair of garments, offered while reciting his many names. The wise offer incense of guggulu and buffalo dung mixed with ghee. Finally, a gift is prescribed, to be given along with the food offering and a deer skin, completing the sacred observance as prescribed by tradition.