Summary In this vachana, Basavanna defines the bhakta as one who bows to the bhaktas he meets. He then gives extraordinary value to gentle speech. Soft speech itself becomes all…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows how the true seeker approaches the assembly of bhaktas. When the devotees call, “Come near, come near,” the seeker does not enter with display.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna says that the treasure called bhakti is attained by applying the collyrium of Shiva-love. The bhakta’s path is therefore not merely outer worship or spoken…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that merit and sin are shaped through speech. A reverent word such as “Ayya” opens the way to heaven. A careless or disrespectful word…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that repeated action can fail when the mind is absent. Giving too can fail when it lacks truth. Quantity, frequency, and visible effort do…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna rejects the pride of those who claim, “The land flourished because of us; the crop, the lamp, and the offering happened through us.” Such speech…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that wealth cannot become sacred merely by being donated. Wealth earned through sin is not fit for a worthy recipient. Its defect lies in…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows how bhakti may begin with full bodily involvement and then gradually weaken. On the first day, the head bows. On the second day, the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that bhakti must not be taken up carelessly. It is like a cutting instrument that cuts while going and cuts while returning. Once entered,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what is gained by dancing, singing, or reciting when threefold dāsoha is absent. He gives three sharp examples. The peacock dances, the lute sings,…