[1844] Hence, perhaps, they have not be taken themselves
to the path that is certain, indestructible, and immutable. Hence
perhaps, turning away from that path they have adopted the religion of
Pravritti which leads to conscious existence that is measured by time.
This, indeed, is one great fault that attaches to those that are wedded
to actions, for all their rewards are terminable. This doubt, O
regenerate one, is planted in my heart like a dagger. Remove it out by
reciting to me some discourses of old on this topic. Great is my
curiosity to listen to thee. For what reason, O regenerate one, have the
deities been said to be takers of their respective shares of sacrificial
offerings presented to them with the aid of mantras in sacrifices of
diverse kinds? Why again are the denizens of heaven adored in sacrifices?
And, O best of regenerate persons, to whom do they, that take their
shares of offerings in sacrifices performed to their honour, themselves
make offerings when they perform great sacrifices?"
Vaisampayana said, "The question thou has asked me, O ruler of men,
relates to a deep mystery. No man that has not undergone penances, and
that is not acquainted with the Puranas, can speedily answer it. I shall,
however, answer thee by reciting to thee what my preceptor the
Island-born Krishna, otherwise called Vyasa, the great Rishi who has
classified the Vedas, had said unto us on a former occasion when
questioned by us. Sumanta, and Jaimini, and Paila of firm vows, and
myself numbering the fourth, and Suka forming the fifth, were disciples
of the illustrious Vyasa.
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