LFS 6.0 chapter 4.4 Setting Up The Environment

After I create ~/.bash_profile and ~/.bashrc and then use the source command on ~/.bash_profile, according to the book, I should have a completely empty environment (except for the six variables created by the two ~/.bash* files). But by typing the env command, I see two extra variables (SHLVL=1 and PWD=/home/lfs). Additionally, and more troubling is when I then type in the set command, I see a ton of environment variables like COLUMNS=128 HISTSIZE=500 and stuff like that. The book clearly states that I should have a "completely empty environment", except of course for the six variables created by the new ~/.bash* files. What gives? Should I only be concerned with what the env command displays? Should I not be concerned about what the set command displays? And finally, is it possible or not to actually have a running Linux system where there are no environment variables set? Thanks a million! I've googled and searched LFS web site & couldn't find anything pertinant.

PS- I'm using Slackware 10.1 with kernel 2.6.9 as host.

Hi,

LFS is refering to the environment shown by the env command (the outcome of the set command is not relevant).

The extra 2 variables (SHLVL and PWD) are correct as well. These do not influence the 'creation' of the shell, but are set/changed after the shell is created.

You can continue without any worries.

PS: slack 10.1 upgraded to 2.6.9 to install LFS 6.0 works. I used the same base to install LFS on my laptop.

Hope this helps.