cter of acts and the opposite character of Renunciation) is strictly
conformable to the scriptures. It is, however, very true that without a
correct apprehension of the meaning of the scriptures, one does not feel
inclined to obey what the scriptures really declare. Whatever conduct is
consistent with equity is consistent with the scriptures. Even that is
what the Sruti declares. Similarly, whatever conduct is inconsistent with
equity is inconsistent with the scriptures. This also is declared by the
Sruti. It is certain that no one can do an act that is scriptural by
transgressing the scriptures. That again is unscriptural which is against
the Vedas. The Sruti declares this. Many men, who believe only what
directly appeals to their senses, behold only this world (and not what is
addressed in the scriptures to Faith). They do not behold what the
scriptures declare to be faults. They have, accordingly, like ourselves,
to give way to grief. Those objects of the senses with which men like you
are concerned are the same with which other living creatures are
concerned. Yet in consequence of your knowledge of the soul and their
ignorance of it, how vast is the difference that exists between you and
them! All the four orders of men and all the four modes of life, however
different their duties, seek the same single end (viz., the highest
happiness). Thou art possessed of unquestioned talents and abilities. For
ascertaining that particular course of conduct (amongst those various
duties) which is well calculated to accomplish the desired end, thou
hast, by discoursing to me on the Infinite (Brahma), filled my soul with
tranquillity. As regards ourselves, in consequence of our inability to
understand the Soul we are destitute of a correct apprehension of the
reality. Our wisdom is concerned with things that are low, and we are
enveloped in thick darkness. (The course of conduct, however, that thou
hast indicated for enabling one to attain to Emancipation, is exceedingly
difficult of practice). Only he who is devoted to Yoga, who has
discharged all his duties, who is capable of roving everywhere depending
only on his own body, who has brought his soul under perfect control, who
has transcended the requirements of the science of morality and who
disregards the whole world (and everything belonging to it), can
transgress the declarations of the Vedas with respect to acts, and say
that there is Emancipation.[1255] For one, however, who