Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares the mind to a dog carried in honor, yet still leaping down when it sees what attracts it. The image exposes old nature. Outward…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares his condition to one rabbit chased by many dogs. The image shows a single vulnerable life pursued from many sides. The body cries, “Leave…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares himself to a beast fallen into mire. Once sunk there, the creature has no way out except through the master’s help. He cries, “Shiva,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares himself to a calf lost in the wild. Separated from its source of care, it cries again and again, “Mother, Mother.” The cry is…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks that no one say, “Whose is he?” He does not want the soul to remain questioned, unnamed, or outside belonging. Instead, he asks that…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna teaches that form depends on its proper substance. Before the pot, there must be clay. Before the ornament, there must be gold. He applies the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that even powerful things have something before which they yield. The elephant yields to the goad, the mountain to the thunderbolt, darkness to light,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna questions the dependence on auspicious timings, zodiac signs, planetary relations, moon strength, star strength, and selected days. He does not allow worship to be governed…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that sacred giving cannot bear fruit where inward fitness is absent. A pumpkin wrapped or bound with a strong covering does not become sound…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that outer treatment cannot change inner nature. A dung-formed image may be worshipped with fragrant flowers, but its stench remains. A clay image may…