193. They should not go to the houses of householders unless for the purpose of asking alms, or for being present at an assembly. They should not spend time uselessly without devoting any of it to the worship of the Deity.
194. To the abode of a householder in which only males are employed for serving up the cooked food, and where no woman is to be seen--
195. To the house of such a householder only should my Sâdhus resort for participation in a meal, otherwise they should ask for uncooked food, and prepare it themselves.
196. All my holiest sages should conduct themselves in the same manner as Bharata, son of .Rishabha, the idiot Brâhman (Ja.da-vipra), did in ancient times. [Footnote: The story is told in Vish.nu-purâ.na, ii. 13. He feigned idiocy, that he might not be troubled with worldly society and might so give his undivided attention to devotional exercises.]
197. Those holy men (Sâdhus) who are Brahmaçârîs should diligently abstain from eating or using betel-leaves, opium, tobacco (tamâla), etc.
198. They should never accept a meal given on the performance of the Sanskâra ceremonies, beginning with that of conception; [Footnote: See note to verse 91.] nor on performing the Šrâddha ceremony at death, nor at that performed on the 12th day after decease.
199. They should never sleep during the day, unless afflicted with sickness, etc. They should never gossip about local matters, nor intentionally listen to such gossip.
200. They should not lie down on a bedstead except when suffering from illness or other affliction, and should be guileless and straightforward in their behaviour towards other Sâdhus.
201. They should patiently bear abusive language, or even blows from evil-minded persons, and wish good to (them in return).
202. They should not undertake the work of a go-between or informer, or spy; they should never show selfishness or partiality towards their relations.