Sketch of the Religious Sects of the Hindus c4.41

c4.41

* In further illustration of our text, with regard to the instrumentality of the Purá-nas in generating religious distinctions amongst the Hindus, and as affording a view of the Vaishnava feelings on this subject, we may appeal to the Padma Purána. In the Uttara Khanda, or last portion of this work, towards the end of it, several sections are occupied with a dialogue between SIVA and PA'RVATI', in which the former teaches the latter the leading principles of the Vaishnava faith. Two short sections are devoted to the explanation of who are heretics, and which are the heretical works. All are Páshandas, SIVA says, who adore other gods than VISHNU, or who hold, that other deities are his equals, and all Brahmans who are not Vaishnavas, are not to be looked at, touched, nor spoken to:—