Even after hearing the origin of the mysterious sound, the merchant remained puzzled and thought with certainty, “What is this?” Seeking clarity, he called out, “Come here, O guest; I will offer you hospitality.” With genuine warmth, he invited, “Here are these sweet fruits, honey, meat, and water for you. When my parents arrive, they will give you special honor, as is proper.” He reflected aloud, “A householder whose parents reside in hell surely suffers. If a guest, whose hopes are broken, leaves the house disappointed, that brings ruin. Therefore, by every effort, the householder must honor the guest.” Speaking thus, the merchant—well versed in righteousness—uttered only auspicious words. Then, with curiosity and respect, he asked, “Who are you, O sage, knower of ancient lore? Are you a god or a secret being? Who are you? Tell me the truth. You are enthusiastic and fond of guests.” Thus addressed, the parrot revealed everything he had done in the past. Whatever was disagreeable to the parrot was also so for the great sage engaged in austerity. This great parrot, the son of Vyasa, had performed intense austerities. At that time, the sages Asita and Devala arrived there, along with Aṅgirās, Taittirīya, Raibhya, Kāṇva, Medhātithi, Kṛta, Vāmadeva, Āśvaśirā, Triśīrṣa, Gautama, and Udara. They all approached Śuka and questioned him regarding the code of righteousness. The parrot continued, “Though devoted to faith, I strayed in childhood, even while outwardly following good conduct. My teacher constantly forbade me, as I often spoke unjustly. I became entangled in arguments—preliminary and established conclusions—each seeking to overcome the other. Thus, I was restrained by my teacher and the eminent sages. Out of anger, Śuka pronounced this curse upon me: ‘This boy is a mere prattler.’ As soon as those words were spoken, I became Śuka’s younger brother. The sages regarded Śuka as the foremost knower of the true meaning. In a future time, O good one, I shall grant a boon to Śuka: he will always be devoted to the welfare of the good. After dying in Mathurā, he will go to the world of Brahmā. Constantly, without fatigue, he will utter ‘Mathurā’ and ‘Mathura’ aloud. I was captured by a Śabara, who kept me in a cage. Yet, by the sage’s grace, knowledge never abandoned me at any time. Be at peace, O highly fortunate one; do not let your mind fall into sorrow.” These words, pleasing to the heart, bestowed liberation upon Śuka. The parrot concluded, “I am residing there, O gentle one, having come here for the purpose of trade. Again, we wish to return there, taking our goods as we please.” Hearing that Gokarna was a resident of Mathura, the parrot’s heart was stirred. As the conversation unfolded, Shabari arose from her bed, surrounded by attendants, possessing a charming and beautiful form. She received the dear guest with honor and purity, as was fitting. According to the parrot’s words, arrangements were made for the guest’s worship. In her presence, the parrot again performed the honoring of the guest, offering fruits mixed with meat and fragrant honey as well.