By the grace of Rama, O Parvati, not even in sleep can grief, infatuation, doubt or error enter your mind, so far as I can judge.

But you have put forward the same old doubt again, so that all those who repeat or hear this account may receive blessing. The ears of those who have not heard Hari’s story are no better than snake-holes.

The eyes of those who have not blessed them with the sight of saints are as good as the marks on peacock’s feathers; the heads that bow not at the feet of Hari and the guru are no better than bitter pumpkins.

Those whose hearts are bereft of devolution to Hari are as good as dead though yet alive. The tongue that does not sing the praises of Rama is just like the tongue of a croaking frog.

Hard and unfeeling as a thunderbolt is that heart that hears Hari’s deeds and takes no delight in them. Hear, O Girija, the exploits of Rama, which are beneficial to the gods and to the demons a delusion.

Like the heavenly cow, the story of Rama bestows all blessings on those who devote themselves to it; and the assembly of saints is as the abode of all the gods. Knowing this, who would not listen to it?

The story of Rama is like the delightful clapping of hands to frighten away the birds of doubt; the story of Rama is an axe to hew down the tree of the Kaliyuga. Listen to it with reverence, O daughter of the Mountain King.