The lord said: Because knowledge dwindles, therefore sins must be properly atoned for. O auspicious lady, for the betterment of learning and fortune the devotee shall take handfuls of water and, meditating on me (Śiva) and repeating the mantra eleven times he shall perform ablution. For the eradication of the sin he shall take bath, repeating the mantra hundred and eight times. It has the same benefit as the pilgrimage to all holy centres. It is auspicious and it dispels all sins. If there is any break in the continuity in the Sandhyā prayers the man. shall perform hundred and eight japas.