On the contrary, it is only when one becomes an ascetic that he is told to devote himself to the pursuit of the knowledge of _[=a]tm[=a]_.

In one passage there is evidence that two replies were given to this fundamental question in regard to works and knowledge.

For after enumerating a list of good acts, among which are knowledge and Vedic ceremonies, it is asked which among them most tends to deliverance.

The answer is vital.

Or it should be, but it is given in an ambiguous form (xii.