Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether the Master of the house is present within the house. The question is repeated while the house’s condition is revealed. Weeds have grown…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares his condition to a stone lying in water for a long time. Though surrounded by water, it does not become soft. He applies this…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna criticizes those who identify people only by outward appearance. They see a bhakta, an ascetic, or another religious figure, and immediately name each according to…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna presents a divided household. The husband is a devotee of Shiva-Linga, while the wife is devoted to Māri and Maśaṇi. Their receptions differ. One receives…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what value remains when a precious thing is held by one who cannot receive its purpose. Wealth is fruitless without life. A weapon is…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares a wife without love for her husband to a devotee without steadfastness in the Linga. In both cases, the relationship exists outwardly, but its…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether the measuring vessel becomes tired from measuring, whether the cloth or path becomes tired from repeated use, and whether the staff becomes tired…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna distinguishes true invocation from empty calling. People may call and praise, yet if trust is absent, the call remains hollow. He asks whether Shiva would…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna shows that need cannot change the nature of what is harmful or unsuitable. Hunger does not make bitter milk-weed edible. Thirst does not make poison…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what value outward fullness has when true fruit is absent. A tree may grow large and leafy, but if it does not bear fruit,…