The mother has placed her infant in the cradle, woven of the five elements and watched over by the four guardians of speech. She shows the child playthings of devotion through the power of articulate speech. 'Sleep now, sleep,' says the mother, cradling the child. 'You have tired yourself with play, O unknowing babe, sleep now.' Playing outside with worldly people, the child does not know that the dark-faced demon of death may carry him away. Seeing the heedless child at play, death may seize him; so she urges: obey my words swiftly. Past merit was your companion that saved you from the clutches of tormentors. Who knows how many others were carried away before; only by great merit have you come this far. Playing, Shuka was pursued by desire, and he hid twelve years in his mother's womb. Emerging, he ran clutching his loincloth, and in that same manner, take shelter behind the door of devotion. Playing, the emperor Janaka was seized by fear; one foot fell into the fire. His body trembled, and neither joy nor sorrow could be felt. The emperor Shibi was tested unexpectedly; fearless, he cut flesh from his own hand. When all was tested, his divine parents snatched him back. Ajamela was bound to a courtesan's company; in terror he cried out, and his divine parents heard. They rushed to save him and drew the pair to themselves. So, O child, hold fast to this remembrance and remain still. Do not wander heedless in play. Death counts your days and tallies them; then it blinds your eyes and gives no chance to remember. Such are those compassionate parents who have captivated the child's heart, singing sweetly in melodious voice. By that singing the mind becomes calm and still. Says Tuka, those who lack faith are destroyed.