Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of hearth-ash. However much it is smeared, it cannot become truly white. He then turns the image inward. What fruit can affection…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that illicit gain carries its own punishment. One goes toward unlawful earning, and what comes into the hand is counterfeit. The consequence then unfolds…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against speech that is sweet like sugar while poison remains in the heart. The danger is not harsh language, but pleasing words that conceal…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against divided devotion after receiving the Linga. One may be born into Shiva’s way, receive the Linga, and bear it upon the body, yet…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes the contradiction between bearing the Linga-mark and straying from the Linga-path. For the body’s desire, one turns toward liquor and meat. For the eyes’…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes one who sees another’s defect but does not see his own. A snake-charmer goes to seek an omen for his son’s marriage and sees…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether Kudalasangama Deva will accept one thing within and another thing outside. The question exposes a life divided at its root. He then asks…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes a relationship governed by hidden gain. The courtesan may turn toward the child at one moment and toward the lover at another, but the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what use a barrier has for the house where a saint abides. The question points to inward steadiness. Where the inner dwelling is already…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that nearness alone does not create transformation. A vessel may be close to food, yet it cannot know the taste. A monkey may come…