One desirous of advancement and growth should never burn (for
light) fat or marrow or the juice that flows from the bones of
creatures.[443] The man who desires his own advancement and prosperity
should always give lights at descents from mountains, in roads through
forests and inaccessible regions, under sacred trees standing in the
midst of human habitations, and in crossings of streets. The man who
gives lights always illumines his race, attains to purity of soul and
effulgence of form. Verily, such a man, after death, attains to the
companionship of the luminous bodies in the firmament. I shall now
discourse to thee upon the merits, with the fruits they bring about, that
attach to Vali offerings made to the deities, the Yakshas, the Uragas,
human beings, spirits, and Rakshasas. Those unscrupulous and wicked men
that eat without first serving Brahmanas and deities and guests and
children, should be known as Rakshasas. Hence, one should first offer the
food one has got ready unto the deities after having worshipped them duly
with restrained senses and concentrated attention. One should offer the
Vali unto the deities, bending one head in reverence. The deities are
always supported by food that householders offer. Verily, they bless such
houses in which offerings are made to them.
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