Institutes of Vishnu — XIV.

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# XIV.

1. 1.Now follows the (rule regarding the ordeal by) sacred libation.

1. 1.Having invoked terrible deities (such as Durgâ, the Âdityas or others, the defendant) must drink three handfuls of water in which (images of) those deities have been bathed,

[XIII. 3, 5-7. Y. II, 110, 111.

XIV. 2, 4, 5. Y. II, 112, 113.]

1. 1.Uttering at the same time the words, 'I have not done this,' with his face turned towards the deity (in question).

1. 1.He to whom (any calamity) happens within a fortnight or three weeks (such as an illness, or fire, or the death of a relative, or a heavy visitation by the king),

1. 1.Should be known to be guilty; otherwise (if nothing adverse happens to him), he is freed from the charge. A just king should honour (with presents of clothes, ornaments, &c.) one who has cleared himself from guilt by an ordeal.

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