of morality and
duty that governs those worlds. In that treatise the authors discoursed
on Religion and Wealth and Pleasure, and subsequently on Emancipation
also. They also laid down in it the various restrictions and limitations
intended for the Earth as also for Heaven. They composed that treatise
after having worshipped with penances the puissant and illustrious
Narayana called also Hari, for a thousand celestial years, in company
with many other Rishis. Gratified with their penances and worship,
Narayana commanded the goddess of speech, viz. Saraswati, to enter into
the person of those Rishis. The goddess, for the good of the worlds did
what she was ordered. In consequence of the entrance of the goddess of
speech into their persons, those Rishis, well conversant with penances,
succeeded in composing that foremost of treatises in respect of vocables,
import, and reason.[1797] Having composed that treatise sanctified with
the syllable Om, the Rishis first of all read it to Narayana who became
highly pleased with what he heard. The foremost of all Beings then
addressed those Rishis in an incorporeal voice and said,--'Excellent is
this treatise that ye have composed consisting of a hundred thousand
verses. The duties and observances of all the worlds will flow from this
your work! In complete accordance with the four Vedas, viz., the
Yajushes, the Samans, and the Atharvans of Angiras, the treatise of yours
will be an authority in all the worlds in respect of both Pravritti and
Nivritti.[1798] Agreeably to the authority of the scriptures I have
created Brahman from the attribute of Grace, Rudra from my Wrath, and
yourselves, Ye Brahmanas, as representing the Pravriti-elements (of
Mahat, Ahankara, etc.), Surya, and Chandramas, Wind, and Earth, and Water
and Fire, all the stars and planets and constellations, all else that is
called by the name of creatures, and utterers of Brahma (or the Vedas),
they all live and act in their respective spheres and are all respected
as authorities. Even this treatise that ye have composed shall be
regarded by all persons in the same light, viz., as a work of the highest
authority. This is my command. Guided by this treatise, the Self-born
Manu himself will declare to the world its course of duties and
observances. When Usanas and Vrihaspati will arise, they also will
promulgate their respective treatises on morality and religion, guided by
and quoting from this your treatise.[1799] After t