Summary In this vachana, Basavanna addresses those who hide body, mind, and wealth while placing a bundle of words before others. Their speech is hollow because what is spoken does…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the threefold measure of offering. The body must be given to the Guru, the mind to the Linga, and wealth to the Jangama. He…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of a moss-covered stone. When one steps on it, one slips. What appears to be ground cannot safely be trusted when its…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of a haystack gathered over a long time. A single spark can burn it away. He applies this to the bhakti of…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna tests the claims of devotion. One may say, “I have known,” “I have merged,” and “I will not turn away,” but such words must be…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna defines bhakti by the absence of deceit in wealth, life-breath, and self-regard. Devotion is not proved by display, but by inward freedom from falseness. He…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna gives the image of the sun at two moments of the day. The morning sun is pleasing to the body, but the noon sun becomes…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes religious activity that remains outward. The devotee says, “I have done much,” and builds lofty shrines, yet his own house is like a cook’s…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna warns against those who do not know Kālāgni Rudra’s consuming force. Not seeing the fire that surrounds life, they remain occupied with ordinary nourishment and…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna asks whether a wild animal can give flesh to a lion and become a bhakta. The image shows that raw instinct cannot become devotion merely…