Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against the claim, “I have become Shiva’s devotee; I have attained.” Such a statement does not prove completion. When devotion is claimed by the…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna says that fear does not protect, and trembling does not save. Even if one remains inside a diamond fortress, what is written upon the brow…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that one cannot escape the experiences given with birth by merely saying, “I shall avoid them.” The attempt to avoid what has already arisen…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna speaks of steadfast return. If the hold is lost, it must be taken up again. If one is pushed aside, one must still move forward.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna prays for the firmness of a warrior’s hand. The seeker must hold to Kudalasangama Deva with the grip and steadiness of one trained for battle.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna repeats the warning: “It will not come, it will not come.” Bhakti does not come to the Bhakta who reaches toward another’s wealth or another’s…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna defines true Sharana-life by inner transformation. If sattva, rajas, tamas, and anger are not relinquished, where is anubhava? He then names subtler impurities: self-praise, criticism…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna places before us a series of exalted attainments: becoming sun and moon, remaining through Brahma’s dissolution, sitting upon Hari’s throne, and gaining the distinction associated…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna compares deluded Shivachara to a dream. While the dream lasts, it appears real, but it does not become true realization. He then gives the image…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns that worship can fail through two opposite distortions. If worship becomes rigid, it turns false. If it becomes loose or careless, it loses firmness.…