Summary In this vachana, Basavanna confesses that he is a sinner who has failed in the threefold field. The failure is not limited to one action or one thought; it…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna says that by claiming, “I have known tattva,” he has invited death. The claim of knowledge itself becomes dangerous when it arises before true realization.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives three images of outward honor without inward fitness. A crown is placed on one who cannot bear its dignity. Adornment is placed where the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what adornment can do for a face without a nose. Ornament cannot restore what is absent. He then names his own condition sharply: he…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna describes praise as a golden spear. Those who love and honour him may intend good, yet their praise can pierce inwardly and fill the wound…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna begins with a familiar image: people say the body burns when it is placed in fire. But he points to what happens earlier. The hand…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks what fruit can come from worshipping the Linga without knowing how to walk and without knowing how to speak. Conduct and speech must become…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against speech that lacks lived knowing. Like one who has not known pain speaking about it, words spoken without experience do not carry truth.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes false social measure. When people of horse and umbrella arrive, people fall forward and hold their feet. Visible status receives immediate honor. But when…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks why one should take up the path only to put it down again. Devotion that rises and falls cannot become steady. He then asks…