O Vasundharā, listen with attention as I reveal the path by which one attains true union. The seeker should not dwell on the discomforts of cold or heat, nor be troubled by thoughts of gain or loss. The one who is free from longing for unpleasant things, who is not attracted or repelled by the bitter, reaches the highest perfection. Whoever, abandoning all such distractions, is ever engaged in actions dedicated to me, intent on that alone, diligent and shunning all other pursuits, compassionate to every being, ready to rise in respect for others, and immensely forgiving—such a one walks the path of righteousness at all times, in every direction. With unwavering observance and a mind always turned toward me, the devotee worships me with flowers, fragrant offerings, and incense. Sometimes, this devotee subsists on milk, barley gruel, or even air; at other times, he eats only on every fourth day, or makes do with fruits alone. For seven lifetimes, he performs these acts with steadfast devotion. Thus concludes the teaching on the origin of various actions, as told in the glorious Varaha Purana. Now, let me speak of happiness and sorrow. Whoever causes actions to be performed according to the method I have taught, with a single-minded heart, firm in resolve and free from ego, who eats fruits, roots, and vegetables on the twelfth day or at other sacred times—on the sixth, eighth, and new moon days, and on the fourteenth day of both fortnights—such a resolute person, practicing the discipline of yoga, should carry out his actions. For this person, there is no fatigue, no old age, no delusion, nor any disease. I shall declare the result that arises from such actions: having performed my worship as prescribed, the devotee is honored in my world. Through proper service, all suffering is destroyed and liberation from pain is attained. Is there any greater suffering than for one who does not surrender to me? Is there any greater sorrow than for one who does not seek me out? Is there any greater pain than for one who partakes without first offering to me? Is there any greater grief than for one whose offerings are not accepted by the gods? What could be more sorrowful than a person of weak mind who torments others? Or one who has come under the power of death? Or those who are always running before or behind, never at peace? Some are forced to eat dry food, some sleep on grass, some are seen to be deformed, and some are mute—what could be more sorrowful than these states? A generous person born into poverty, a woman utterly unfortunate, those devoted to sinful deeds—what could be more sorrowful than these? Those who do not take refuge in me—what could be more sorrowful than that? You have asked about the sin that brings harm to all beings. Listen, O faultless one, as I give my decision regarding action: for whom understanding arises, for him suffering is born.