If its object be simply to inculcate a special rite, one cannot demand that it should show breadth of view or elevation of sentiment.

Composed of observances every work must be of which the aim is to explain observances.

In point of fact, religion (faith and moral behavior) is here assumed, and so entirely is it taken for granted that a statement emphasizing the necessity of godliness is seldom found.
Nevertheless, having called attention to the religious spirit that lies latent in the pedantic Br[=a]hmanas, we are willing to admit that the age is overcast, not only with a thick cloud of ritualism, but also with an unpleasant mask of phariseeism.

There cannot have been quite so much attention paid to the outside of the platter without neglect of the inside.

And it is true that the priests of this period strive more for the completion of their rites than for the perfection of themselves.