O noble ones, listen as I explain in detail the procedure for anvādhāna, especially as it pertains to the sacred festival days. On these auspicious occasions, the first three tithis—the lunar days—are each to be observed as a quarter portion, signifying their special importance. Among these, two midday periods are significant, as are the new moon and full moon days, all of which must be carefully noted. The prescribed time for performing the required rites is either on the following day or immediately, depending on when the tithi concludes. If the tithi expires, one may observe the rite either at once or on the next day, as appropriate. When the tenth tithi is combined with another, the merit gained from such observance extends across three births—a reward of great magnitude. Should the twelfth tithi occur on the thirteenth day, this is considered even more auspicious. If the thirteenth tithi falls at the end of the night, I shall clarify the proper course: householders, who seek accomplishment in worldly life, and ascetics, who desire liberation, have different observances. In such cases, even if the tenth tithi is mixed, one should undertake fasting on the eleventh tithi. The rule previously described applies to householders, while ascetics are to remember the latter instruction. When the day concludes, only the second tithi is prescribed for everyone, regardless of circumstance. If the twelfth tithi follows and is not mixed with another, it is prohibited to observe it. Instead, the merit associated with the twelfth tithi is gained by breaking the fast on the thirteenth. Sometimes, the twelfth tithi may or may not coincide with the thirteenth; if the later tithi is to be observed, it should only be done if it is not weak or diminished. If the twelfth tithi occurs on the thirteenth, questions arise about the correct practice. Some, out of deep devotion, maintain that only the second tithi should be observed with fasting, while others observe both the twelfth and thirteenth in a similar manner. There are also those who advocate for the earlier day, but this view is not deemed appropriate. For a householder who has a son, neither the breaking of the fast nor the fasting itself should be performed. On the eleventh day, after having eaten for a day and a night, one may undertake the Chandrayana vow, a disciplined observance. However, if one eats at a time when fasting is required, he is considered as blameworthy as one who drinks liquor. At such times, O best of sages, expiation must be performed, especially by those engaged in sacrificial rites. This expiation is made with the Ṛc verse ‘Āpyāyasva’ and the phrase ‘having drunk Soma’, O twice-born. In the Asatyeṃnodvaya, three mantras are cited for this purpose. Whoever faithfully performs vows and similar observances receives inexhaustible rewards. Thus, those devoted to dharma attain the supreme abode of Viṣṇu, and worldly afflictions never trouble such people. A soul purified by proper expiation attains the fruit of all actions. Conversely, actions performed without proper observance are declared fruitless and are accompanied by demonic influences. Therefore, those who desire the true fruit of dharma should consult learned Brahmins for guidance. O best of Brahmins, know that even the sacred rivers cannot purify a vessel that has contained liquor. Those who engage in such great sins, as well as those who associate with them, are all tainted—the associate is counted as the fifth sinner. One who lives with such people is to be regarded as fallen in all actions. Such a person should carry the skull of the slain Brahmin with his own hand and, having placed it upon his flagstaff, live as a forest-dweller. He must properly worship at the three sandhyā times—dawn, noon, and dusk—and bathe three times daily. He should remain ever celibate, avoiding fragrances, garlands, and similar adornments. If he cannot survive on forest produce alone, he may seek alms in the village, maintaining his penance and devotion. Thus, the path of dharma is made clear for those who seek merit, purification, and the supreme goal.