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PREFACE : LXV
Vicikitsā. 4. Praising The Other Faiths (Parapāsapda prasamsā) - it is a
general observation that the poor merchandise comes in better packaging. The false-faiths are, similarly very well presented and they are, generally, able to attract more gullible people. A right-visioned aspirant ought to see through this guile and realise the truth of the matter and not fall prey to false propaganda. If he is discriminating enough, he will not be unduly attracted towards such other faiths, leave aside praising
them. 5. Familiarity With The followers Of False faiths (Para pa
saņda Paricaya) - Frequent contact with anyone has an induction effect on one's thoughts. 'Familiarity breeds friendship’ is an age-old adage. One must, therefore, guard against who one fraternises with in the matters of the faith. Familiarity with those of the false faith is bound to corrupt one's own vision. Hence, the injunction to avoid contact with the others of the false faith. Also, 'one is known by the company one keeps.' If someone is seen in wrong company
frequently, he is bound to be mistaken for being wrong · himself.
Finally, it would be proper to say that dawn of right vision is better than gaining the material wealth of the three worlds.
(Śivārya, Bhagavatī Ārādhanā, 742).
