Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes devotion that remains only a claim. He addresses those who say, “wealth, life, and self-regard are Yours.” Artha means wealth, possession, or material interest.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that a Bhakta must not lose inward resolve while engaged in the path. He gives three sharp images. For the scorpion, bringing forth its…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna condemns those who neither trust nor allow others to trust. He gives the image of dogs snapping at a burden-bearing bullock. The bullock continues its…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna tests Shivachara by one clear measure: whether one’s nudi and nade have become one. Nudi means word or speech. Nade means walk, conduct, or the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that conduct becomes hollow when delusion is not understood. He names Shiva-chinte and Shiva-jnana. Shiva-chinte means thought, contemplation, or concern directed toward Shiva. Shiva-jnana…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches how correction should be understood on the Linga-path. He begins with the image of a father advising his children. When the father becomes stern,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna tests worship by the state of the one who offers. If an angry person pours water for the Linga’s bathing, the act becomes like a…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that speech and conduct cannot be divided when one holds the Linga. The Kannada centers on nudi and nade. Nudi means speech or word.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that a Bhakta must leave the old hangu. Hangu means bond, dependence, attachment, obligation, or lingering hold. It is not only an outer relationship;…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna tests religious learning, ritual offering, and conduct by one measure: whether the true Lord is known and whether the Sharana-relation is honored. He asks: what…