9. This (knowledge of truth) rises as the moon (in the human mind), and sheds its cooling and delightsome influence to the heart, that there is no other way to gain the fruits of our exertions but by our efforts. 10. We evidently see the results of the exercise of our efforts, and nothing coming out from what the dull and mistaken call as chance or fate. 11. An effort when directed according to the counsel and conduct of the good in the exercise of the action of the body and mind, it is attended with success, otherwise it is as vain as the freak of a madman. 12. Thus he who wishes to acquire riches, and perseveres in its acquisition, surely succeeds in gaining them; or else he stops short in the midway. 13. It was by means of the exertion of their efforts that some particular persons have obtained the paramount dominion of Indra over the three worlds. 14. It is by the exertion of one’s efforts that he attains to the rank of the lotus-born (Brahmá); and some even gain the inward joy of the state of Brahm by it. 15. It was by virtue of his self-exertion that some body has become the best among men, even as he who bears the ensign of the eagle (Vishnu among the gods). 16. It was by the exertion of one’s efforts that some persons succeeded to obtain the form of Siva accompanied by his female power, and adorned by the semi-circle of the moon in his crest. 17. Know our actions to be of two kinds namely, those of former and present lives: and that acts of the <present> life generally supersede those of the past. 18. Know also that energy joined with constant practice, and supported by wisdom and some stimulating force, is able to break down the mount of Meru, and the demerits of acts in the former lives of men. 19. The exertions of a man proceeding from his good efforts and countenanced by the law, lead to his success, or else they either go for nothing or turn to his disadvantage. 20. So a man laid up in a state of disability, is unable to twist his fingers in order to hold a little water in the hollow of his palm for drink: while there is another who (by his well directed efforts) gets the possession of seas and islands, mountains and cities for himself, supports all his dependents and relations, and does not think this earth too great for him. CHAPTER V. NECESSITY OF ACTIVITY. Vasishtha said:— It is the will or inclination that is the prime instrument of all actions done even according to the rules of law and sástras, as it is the reflection of light that gives various hues to things. 2. Whoever wishes to do anything desirable to him by unlawful acts, it becomes as fruitless as the endeavours of a madman. 3. As you try so you get both of good and evil: and fortune and exertion are the joint causes of acts according to fatalists. 4. Human exertions are either lawful or unlawful; the former leading to success, and the latter to dangerous consequences.