Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of a sheep entering a sugarcane field. Though surrounded by sweetness, it does not know the cane’s essence. It eats only the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks the listener to observe the condition of Veda-reciting Brahmins. They chant “Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi,” yet there is no inquiry among them. The sacred words…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes conditional reverence. People call fire divine and offer oblations to it within their homes. But when that same fire rises and burns the house,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna laments human birth wasted without knowing the faces of Linga. Human birth alone does not become sacred if the seeker fails to recognize the presence…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what use there is in showing a mirror to one whose eyes are closed. If the eyes remain shut, the mirror cannot give sight.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares blind action to a bull with covered eyes circling the oil-press. It moves continuously, but it does not know what it is doing. He…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes distorted perception and false justification. A fox eats a fruit and speaks as though the whole creation has turned upside down. He then gives…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks why the learned do not live according to what they speak. Their words and conduct do not agree. He gives the image of two…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna corrects those who speak doctrinally without knowing the proper order. They say that Viṣṇu acts and Rudra is actionless. He then addresses those who argue…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what one will do with what has been received. If the fruit of merit does not become peace, it turns into a restless betal.…