O Devi, listen to the wondrous glory of the sacred fords of Mathura. Whoever bathes at these holy places is blessed with entry into my realm, attaining the fruit of the Agniṣṭoma sacrifice. Even if one simply bathes there, he rejoices in the heights of heaven and is honored among the dwellers of my world. If one gives up life at these fords, he is assured of reaching my divine abode. In the land of the Pāñcālas stands Kāmpilya, the foremost city. There once lived a barber named Tiṃduka. Over a long period, his family fell into ruin, and he abandoned all attachments, journeying to Mathurā. In Mathurā, after performing many deeds and bathing in the sacred Yamunā river, he eventually reached the end of his life. In that splendid house, there was a Brāhmaṇa, foremost among yogis, who, by the power of that holy place, attained liberation—so rare and precious. Once, the mighty Vairochana worshipped the Sun, performing supreme austerity with arms raised and fasting. The radiant Lord Sun, pleased with his devotion, spoke to him. Bali said, “Even lacking wealth, I have supported my family.” In response, the Sun granted him a wish-fulfilling gem from his own crown. A man who bathes at that holy place is freed from all sins. Especially on the day of the sun, at the time of the solstice, or during an eclipse of the moon or sun, where the highest austerity is performed with intense discipline, if one gives up life, he is honored in my world. Such a one uplifts all his ancestors, particularly during the fortnight dedicated to them. O Devi, bathing at these fords grants entry into my world and even the world of sages. To the south of the Sage’s Ford lies my supreme Moksha Ford. There is also Koti Ford, which is difficult to attain even for the gods. Whoever bathes at Koti Ford and satisfies the ancestors and deities is honored in the world of Brahma. By offering oblations there, one goes to the world of ancestors, especially by giving gifts during the month of Jyeshtha—this fruit is assured, without doubt. These twelve fords are difficult to attain, even for the gods; by merely remembering them, one is freed from all sins. Thus ends the chapter named “The Praise of the Fords of Mathura,” in the section on the greatness of Mathura in the glorious Varaha Purana. Now, hear further of the greatness of Mathura’s fords. To the north of Shiva-kunda, nine fords are remembered. By merely bathing at these, supreme good fortune arises. O Devi, a man who bathes there attains my world. Whether one bathes or dies there, he surely reaches my realm. Whatever ancient deeds occurred at that sacred place of restraint, even those who have committed great sins and dwell in the renowned Naimisha forest, if they reach the Yamuna on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight, their sins are washed away and they are blessed.