Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that action and speech return to the one who performs them. If one strikes, the blow rests in one’s own hand. If one scolds,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against saying too easily that God is gentle or favourable. Such a claim must be tested when pressure comes, and when one is made…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that the source of what is received matters more than its size. If a corrupt person gives a kingdom, one should not desire it…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna says that the company of the good is beneficial and that the company of the wicked brings ruin. He then gives the rule directly: there…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna says that one bitten by a serpent may still be made to speak. One seized by frenzy may also be made to speak. But one…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna confronts the one who speaks of reaching Shiva while distress has not subsided and anger has not left. Cruel speech and crookedness still remain. When…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows the blindness of desire in the face of danger. A frog caught in the serpent’s mouth still reaches for a passing fly. He then…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna instructs the seeker to keep close the company of the good and to keep far from the company of the wicked. He then gives the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether a serpent can be killed by striking around its hole. The question shows the futility of effort that does not reach the hidden…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of a vast marketplace spread across the earth. In that field of exchange sits Mahadeva-Setti, the great merchant. If one is single-minded,…