46. What was before and what will be in the end, the same is in being (in esse) even at present; therefore, what is always in esse, it is that entity alone that is seen everywhere and at all times.
47. There are the unreal sky and moon and stars, seen underneath the water; it is only the deluded boys that like to look at them, but never the wise (who look at the reality and not at its shadow).
48. Children take a liking for light, empty and gaudy baubles; which are of no good or use to them nor any body at all, and are rather led to sorrow at their loss, than derive any good from their gain whatever.
49. Therefore act not as a child, O lotus-eyed Ráma! but conduct yourself as the wise, and by looking at these fleeting baubles as ever evanescent, rely in the Everlasting alone.
50. Ráma! be not sad or sorry to learn, that all these with thyself and myself are nothing in reality; nor be glad or joyous to know, that all these and ourselves are real entities. But reckon alike whether these be or not be; because it is the One Being, that becomes and unbecomes anything, it is the only Being, and all things that becomes.
51. Válmíki said:—As the sage was saying in this manner, the day glided away to its dusk; the sun departed to his even tide and evening service, and with him the assembly parted to their evening ablutions and rest, after which they assembled again to the court with the rising sun.
CHAPTER XLVI.
DESCRIPTION OF LIVING LIBERATION.
Argument. The emancipation of Living souls from the thraldom of the World.
Vasishtha said:—No man knows sorrow as long as he is in possession of his pleasant home, family and wealth; but why should he be sorrowful upon their disappearance, knowing them as a short-lived enchantment and accompaniment.
2. What pleasure or pain can one derive, either from the grandeur or destruction of his aerial castle, and what cause of joy can he have in his ignorant children, or of sorrow upon their death? (An ignorant son is sorrow to his father. Solomon).