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to
two states of misery; it will be difficult for him an upward course for a long time to come.
attain (18).
19.
Considering what is at stake, one should weigh (the chances of) the sinner and of the virtuous man (in one's mind). He who brings back his capital is (to be compared to) one who is born again as a man.
(19)
20.
Those men, who through the exercise of various virtues, become pious householders, will be born again as men; for all beings will reap the fruit of their actions.
(20).
21. But he, who increases his capital ts ( to be compared to)
one who practises eminent virtues; the virtuous excellent man, cheerfully attains the state of gods.
(21).
22. When one, thus, knows that a (virtuous monk) or house
holder will be gladdened (by his gain ), how, then, should a man, whilst he is losing (his chance), not be conscious of his losing it ?
(22).
23. As a drop of water at the top of a blade of Kusa-grass
dwindles down to naught when compared with the ocean, so do human pleasures, when compared with divine pleasures.
(23).
24. The pleasures in this very limited life of men, are like the
water at the top of a blade of Kusa-grass); for the sake of what will a man not care to gain and to keep so precious a good which he risks to lose ?
(24). 25. He, who has not renounced pleasure, will miss his aim (i-e
the true end of his soul); for, though he has been taught the right way, he will go astray again and again. (25).
26. But he, who has renounced pleasure, will not miss his aim;
(he will think): "I have learned that by getting rid of this vile body, I shall become a god"
(26
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