Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes the split between worship and conduct. A person may sit before the Linga and perform puja, yet live through hidden falsehood. The outer act…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether bhakti can arise in one ruled by sin and anger. Devotion cannot be produced by claim alone when the inner condition remains disturbed.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what is gained by reading a hundred texts or hearing a hundred teachings if desire has not been left and anger has not cooled.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna calls the elders to listen to the Guru’s upadeśa. He does not treat instruction as ordinary speech. A true word of guidance can redirect destiny,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against playful and careless speech before the Sharanas of Kudalasangama Deva. He gives the image of a figure made of butter placed near fire.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives two images of consequence that cannot be avoided. If burning embers are placed on the head, they burn. If stone is chewed with grain,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives three images of lost force. If the edge is gone, what can a sword do? If the venom is gone, what can a serpent…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna defines the firmness required of a Sharana. The Sharana must be firm in not desiring another’s wealth, another’s companion, or another god. He then gives…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that devotion is not limited by region, language, or formal expression. A Sharana offers a little incense and utters “Uge Changu Bhala,” and the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna makes an uncompromising vow of remembrance. In waking, dream, and deep sleep, if he thinks of another apart from Kudalasangama Deva, he calls for the…