the fruits of a
virtuous course of behaviour with spouses in their company, have this
mode of life ordained for them. In it Virtue, Wealth, and Pleasure, may
all be obtained. It is (thus) suited to the cultivation of the triple
aggregate. Acquiring wealth by irreproachable acts, or with wealth of
high efficacy which is obtained from recitation of the Vedas, or living
upon such means as are utilised by the regenerate Rishis,[575] or with
the produce of mountains and mines, or with the wealth represented by the
offerings made in sacrifices and on the termination of vows and other
observances, and those made unto deities, the householder should lead
this mode of life. That mode of life is regarded as the root of all the
others. They who are residents in the abodes of preceptors, they who lead
lives of mendicancy, and others who live in the observance of vows and
restraints to which they are pledged, derive from this mode the means
they live upon, the offerings they make unto the Pitris and the deities,
and, in short, their entire support. The third mode of life is called the
Forest-life. For those that lead it, there is no storing of wealth and
articles.[576] Generally, these pious and good men, subsisting upon good
food, and engaged in studying the Vedas, roam ever the earth for
journeying to tirthas and visiting diverse realms. Standing up, advancing
forward, sweet speeches uttered in sincerity, gifts according to the
measure of the giver's competence, offer of seats and beds of the best
kind, and presents of excellent food, are some of the means for showing
them regard. On this subject there is a verse: If a guest turns away from
a house with expectations unfulfilled, he is supposed to take away the
merits of the householder and leave the latter all his misdeeds. Then
again in the domestic mode of life the deities are gratified by
sacrifices and other religious rites; the Pitris by the performance of
obsequial rites; the Rishis by cultivation of (Vedic) knowledge, by
listening to the instructions of preceptors, and by committing to memory
the scriptures; and lastly the Creator by begetting children.[577] On
this subject there are two verses: One in the observance of this mode of
life should speak upon all creatures words breathing affection and
agreeable to the ears. To give pain, to inflict mortifications, and harsh
words, are all censurable. Insult, arrogance, and deceit, also should be
avoided. Abstention from injury,