Four Stages of Life - Verse 180-181

All these stages of life have been declared by Brahma himself for the achievement of ultimate good. Truthfulness, straightforwardness, austerities, forbearance, Yogic sacrifice preceded by control of senses, study of the Vedas and their ancillaries, sacrifices, holy observances and restraints do not bear fruit if there is fault in emotions and if one is defiled.