yudhi·shthira said:

175.1

I

f time prevails over everything and brings about the destruction of all creatures, what is the best thing that a man could do? Please tell me that, grandfather.

bhishma said:

On this subject people relate the ancient tradition of a conversation between a father and his son. Listen to it, Yudhi·shthira.

There was once a son of a certain brahmin, Partha, who was devoted to Vedic recitation. He was a wise man, and was known by the name of Medhavin. Knowledgeable about the purpose of the religion of liberation, and with some understanding of the world’s true nature, the son spoke to his father, so devoted to his Vedic recitation, as follows.

the son said:

175.5

What should a wise and knowledgeable man do, father, for the lifespan of men quickly wastes away? Please explain this as it really is, so that in due course I may practice the religious life.

the father said:

When you have completed your life of Vedic learning as a chaste student, my son, you should seek to obtain offspring so that you may free our ancestors from evil. After you have established the sacred fires according to the rules and performed the Vedic sacrifices, you may then enter the forest and become a silent sage.