In
truth, however, that conduct, embracing as it does practices the very
opposite of those that are seen in seasons of distress, is the very
essence of heedfulness and is never affected by lust and wrath and other
passions of a similar kind.[1250] As regards sacrifices again, it is very
difficult to ascertain all their particulars. If ascertained, it is very
difficult to observe them in practice. If practised, the fruits to which
they lead are terminable. Mark this well. (And marking this, do thou
betake thyself to the path of knowledge).'
"Syumarasmi said, 'The Vedas countenance acts and discountenance them.
Whence then is their authority when their declarations thus contradict
each other? Renunciation of acts, again, is productive of great benefit.
Both these have been indicated in the Vedas. Do thou discourse to me on
this subject, O Brahmana!'
"Kapila said, 'Betaking yourselves to the path of the good (viz., Yoga),
do you even in this life realise its fruits by the direct evidence of
your senses. What, however, are the visible results of those other
objects which you (men of acts) pursue?'
"Syumarasmi said, 'O Brahmana, I am Syumarasmi by name. I have come here
for acquiring knowledge. Desirous of doing good to myself I have started
this conversation in artless candour and not from desire of disputation.
The dark doubt has taken possession of my mind. O illustrious one, solve
it to me. Thou hast said that they who take the path of the good (viz.
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