There is an interesting conversation between Sage Vyasa and Maitreya in the Anusasana Parva of the Mahabharata. On a question from Maitreya, Vyasa stated the following three principles as characteristic of an exemplary life:
- One should not betray.
- One should practice charity.
- One should be truthful.
Maitreya Teachings to Vidura of Mahabharata as found in Bhagavata Purana:
The root cause of grief is selfishness.
Prayer and charity bring peace.
Follow the preaching of elders and the guru (teacher) to realize God.
Prayer keeps god always in our heart.
Asritavatsalattva (protecting the surrendered) is the main swarupa (image) of Bhagavan.
Bhagavan comes down to Earth in different avataras whenever there is a decline of righteousness.
The creation of the universe (jagat srishti) commences after dissolution (pralaya).
Yogamaya is a silent witness to the karma vasyata (bounded by actions) of his devotees.
God manifests in different forms by His truthfulness (satya sankalpattva) and ability to perform wonderful deeds (agatitha ghatana samarthya).
Bhagavan protects pious people by eliminating the wicked. (duskrit vinasana).
Actions of Bhagavan include following people to act according to their fancy.
The division of the world is by time-bound activity.