Treatise on Physiognomy

Regarding the profit gained by certain means, it is said that through such actions, one’s sacred duty dharma is replaced by sin papa. || 21 || Through the condition of the ears, the state of the ancestors original: "pitara" is revealed, as is the fate of one's progeny. If these traits are abandoned or ill-formed, the person may lose their place in the heavenly realm original: "svarga" or be struck down in this world. 22 ||

Greatness lies in the hidden marks of protection gupti; those who lack these signs or suffer from restlessness original: "anidra" - sleeplessness or lack of peace will find their fortune fading. A man without these auspicious signs is as if he possesses no beauty or prosperity shri. 23 ||

Even a single well-placed mark or secret can be the cause of a great increase in prosperity. All these signs are rooted in the base of the hand pani mula referring to the wrist or the very bottom of the palm of a man. || 24 ||

Whether in the governance of a village or in the path of action and labor, or even in the life of a merchant vanijya, the fate of that man is revealed through these signs—of this there is no doubt. 25 ||

In the upper part of the hand, where the three lines of protection original: "gupti traye" - likely the three 'bracelets' or rachettes on the wrist reside, one who has these clearly marked will sit amidst various enjoyments and luxuries, speaking with gentle words. || 26 ||

Circular whorls avarta circular patterns in the skin or fingerprints bring one close to the delights of passion. When the lines of protection are well-situated and firm, and the signs on the peaks referring to the mounts of the hand are heroic and clear, they are considered highly auspicious. || 27 ||

However, if these signs are absent or broken, or if they appear like scattered chaff, then the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment may instead lead the man to a state of ruin or a metaphorical hell. 28