14. It is according to the development of the mental powers of living beings in every state, that it obtains its object in the manner and in the same state as it aims at.
15. You had attained the powers of your understanding by your devotedness to my service, and have always desired of me for being liberated from flesh.
16. I have accordingly awakened your understanding in that way, whereby you have been able to arrive at your present state of purity.
17. It was by cause of your constant desire of liberation, that you have gained the same state, by enlargement (of the powers) of your intellect.
18. Whoever exerts his bodily powers according to the dictates of his understanding, is sure to succeed in gaining his object sooner or later.
19. Performance of austerities and adoration of gods, are as vain without cultivation of the intellect, as to expect the falling of fruits from the sky.
20. Without cultivation of the intellect and exertion of manly powers, there is no way to success; do therefore as you may choose for yourself.
21. It is verily the state of one’s mind, that leads his internal soul to that state which it thinks upon, and to that prosperity which it attempts to obtain. 22. Now distinguish between what is desirable or disagreeable to you, and choose that which is holy and perfect, and you will certainly arrive to it.
CHAPTER XLVI.
Onslaught of Vidúratha.
Ráma said:—Relate to me the acts of Vidúratha, after he went out enraged from the camp, and left the ladies and the goddess talking in that manner.