Summary Basavanna asks Kudalasangama Deva not to let samsara pursue and scatter him. His mind is already absorbed in the Lord’s meditation, and he knows no other. Using bridal language,…

Summary Basavanna asks the whole world to know that he has one husband: Kudalasangama Deva. Speaking in the devotional voice of a wife, he declares that he is married and…

Summary Basavanna declares that no lord other than the heart-captivating Kudalasangama Deva can enter his mind. The One adorned with the serpent alone answers his inward longing; no other relation…

Summary Basavanna praises Kudalasangama Deva through a succession of forms, marks, and remembered acts: the golden serpent, matted locks, sacred ash, skull, Ardhanari form, and deeds associated with Bāṇa, Nambi,…

Summary What had appeared in a dream is now seen as true and established. Basavanna has found a treasure that cannot be relinquished. He identifies this treasure directly as Kudalasangayya.…

Summary Basavanna questions whether outward religious marks, bodily observances, and ritual crossing can by themselves establish spiritual transformation. He asks Kudalasangama Deva to prevent his attention from turning toward another…

Summary Basavanna asks Kudalasangama Deva to transform his whole body into a musical instrument. The body becomes its frame, the head its resonating vessel, the nerves its strings, and the…

Summary Basavanna refuses to let outward appearance, honor, shame, or public laughter determine his relation to the Linga. Even if accepted standards of dignity and reputation are lost, he will…

Summary Basavanna names the suras, kinnaras, and kimpuruṣas, but does not allow these celestial beings to draw his attention away. His citta—his inward attention and orientation—is fixed upon Kudalasangama Deva…

Summary Basavanna continues to behold the Linga until ordinary limits of seeing are crossed. Tears flow without measure, and the body responds with trembling and beads of perspiration. These are…