d of creatures, and
Suvarna. There was in days of yore an ascetic, O Bharata, of the name of
Suvarna. His complexion was like that of gold and hence he was called
Suvarna (the gold-complexioned). Endued with a pure lineage, good
behaviour, and excellent accomplishments, he had mastered all the Vedas.
Indeed, by the accomplishments he possessed, he succeeded in surpassing
many persons of high lineage. One day that learned Brahmana saw Manu, the
lord of all creatures, and approached him. Meeting with each other, they
made the usual enquiries of politeness. Both of them were firm in the
observance of truth. They sat down on the delightful breast of Meru, that
mountain of gold. Seated there they began to converse with each other on
diverse subjects connected with the high-souled deities and regenerate
Rishis and Daityas of ancient times. Then Suvarna, addressing the
Self-born Manu, said these words, 'It behoveth thee to answer one
question of mine for the benefit of all creatures. O lord of all
creatures, the deities are seen to be worshipped with presents of flowers
and other good scents. What is this? How has this practice been
originated? What also are the merits that attach to it? Do thou discourse
to me on this topic.'

"'"Manu said, 'In this connection is recited the old history of the
discourse between Sukra and the high-souled (Daitya) Vali. Once on a
time, Sukra of Bhrigu's race approached the presence of Vali, the son of
Virochana, while he was ruling the three worlds. The chief of the Asuras,
that giver of sacrificial presents in abundance, having worshipped the
descendant of Bhrigu with the Arghya (and offering him a seat), sat down
after his guest had seated himself. This very topic that thou hast
stated relating to the merits attaching to the gift of flowers and
incense and lamps, came up on the occasion. Indeed, the chief of the
Daityas put this high question to Sukra, that most learned of all
ascetics.

"'"'Vali said, "O foremost of all persons conversant with Brahma, what,
indeed, is the merit of giving flowers and incense and lamps? It behoveth
thee, O foremost of Brahmanas, to discourse to me on this."

"'"'Sukra said, "Penance first sprang into life. Afterwards came Dharma (or
compassion and other virtues). In the interval between started into life
many creepers and herbs.[439] Innumerable were the species of those. All
of them have (the deity) Soma for their lord. Some of these creepers and
herbs cam