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The Great Purana, a sacred text, states that the valiant king Bharata, desiring conquest, crossed the vast ocean, where the tides rise and fall, and the waves are whipped by the wind. He swiftly conquered the Magadha king, for what can be unconquerable in the world when one possesses the power of great merit? (214) The king Bharata, adorned with immense wealth, crossed the insurmountable ocean, free from obstacles, and brought the earth, whose boundary is the ocean, under his control, all due to the rise of his virtuous deeds. For there is no better means than merit for achieving desired results. (215) The king Bharata, wielding the chakra weapon, whose wealth is terrifying to his enemies, crossed the ocean teeming with fearsome crocodiles, and brought the Magadha king, who was not subject to anyone else, under his control. For there is no better means of subjugation in the world than merit. (216) Merit makes the earth like water for humans, and merit makes water like earth, quickly extinguishing all suffering. Merit is a third refuge, a shelter in the midst of the fear of water and land. Therefore, O noble ones, follow the teachings of the Jinas and cultivate merit. (217) Merit is the supreme refuge, insurmountable in times of adversity. Merit is the giver of wealth to the poor, and merit is the giver of happiness to those who desire it. Therefore, O virtuous ones, accumulate this jewel of merit, as taught by the Jinas. (218) The first merit is obtained by worshipping the Jinas. The second merit is obtained by giving to worthy recipients. The third merit is obtained by observing vows. The fourth merit is obtained by fasting. Thus, those who desire merit should strive for these four types of merit. (219)