(Meaning) For the Brahmins the priestly class, let the sacred thread be made of three strands of Dharba grass. For the Kings, let it be two strands of Kadamba fiber. For the Merchants, let it be two strands of palm fiber. For the Laborers, let it be two strands of Aathi Bauhinia fiber. — Thus it is said. (71)

Leveling the Ground

If you wish to find the water level, consider the site carefully. Dig a firm, square pit in the center and quickly fill it with water. Firmly drive stakes into the corners and then tie the measuring cords.

(Meaning) To find the ground level, dig a square pit in the middle, pour in water, drive stakes into the four directions, and tie the cords. (72)

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If the water poured in flows well, reaching the four directions, touching the stakes and spreading evenly, then the ground is level. The learned architects, having observed this on the temple grounds, shall offer prayers with focused minds. Verse 73 is unnumbered in the original margin but follows 72.

(Meaning) If the water poured in the center overflows, spreads to the four directions, and touches the stakes and the cords, it is a level surface. — Thus it is said.

Setting the Roof Pillars and Auspicious Timing

Divide the width into nine parts; one part is for the roof pillar. Two parts shall go into the pit below. For the portion that rises above, six parts are allocated. Of those, one part goes to the top joint, and the remaining five parts shall stand in the middle for all to see.

(Meaning) Measure the width and divide it into 9 parts. One part is the thickness of the pillar. 2 parts are for the depth of the foundation pit. Of the remaining 6 parts above ground, 1 part is for the capital/joint, and 5 parts are for the standing height. — Thus it is said. (74)

Rules for Planting the Corner Pillars

At the chosen auspicious time Muhurthaan astrologically favorable moment, first perform a puja ritual worship to Lord Ganesha. Place gold, precious gems, and milk into the pit. With great ceremony, plant the first pillar in the Southwest corner. Then, proceed to plant the Southeast, Northeast, and Northwest corner pillars in their proper order.

(Meaning) At a good Muhurtha, worship Lord Vinayaka Ganesha, drop gold, fine gems, and milk into the pit, and plant the Southwest corner pillar first. Then plant the Southeast, Northeast, and Northwest corner pillars according to the rules. — Thus it is said. (75)

Joining the Timber

If the wood is joined such that the base of the tree is at the bottom and the tip is at the top, with the sapwood on the outside and the heartwood on the inside, those who dwell there will have a life of prosperity and wealth. If this is done incorrectly, it will surely bring disease and ruin.