Of these, that
which comes next (in the order of enumeration) is more meritorious than
the preceding one.[1003] As regards the four (principal) modes of life
also, the same rule of merit applies, viz., the one that comes after is
superior to the one preceding it. Accordingly, domesticity is superior to
Brahmacharya, forest life is superior to domesticity, and a life of
mendicancy or complete renunciation is superior to a forest life. One
desirous of prosperity should accomplish all those duties and rites that
have been ordained in the scriptures in respect of those modes. That
kingdom grows in prosperity where these highly deserving persons live,
viz., those that lead a life of domesticity according to the Kumbhadhanya
method, they that lead it according to the Unchha method, and they that
lead it according to the Kapoti method.[1004] That man who cheerfully
leads a life of domesticity in the observance of those duties, succeeds
in sanctifying ten generations of his ancestors above and ten generations
of descendants below. A householder, duly observing the duties of
domesticity, obtains an end that yields felicity equal to what occurs in
the regions attained by great kings and emperors. Even this is the end
that has been ordained for those who have subdued their senses. For all
high-souled householders heaven has been ordained. That heaven is
equipped with delightful cars for each (moving at the will of the rider).
Even that is the delightful heaven indicated in the Vedas.
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