Poetic RenderingLike a lost calf in the forestI cry “Mother! Mother!” without rest.I call “Mother! Mother!” with all my breath.O Koodalasangamadeva, grant me life, grant me life.  The poet compares…

Poetic RenderingThe One remains undividedonly our own notions scatter itinto signs, seasons, and imagined destinies.Can past births determine your readiness?Can moon or star influencethe Eternal who existed before all things?So…

Poetic RenderingMy devotion is like an oxcircling an empty oil millround and round,yet no sesame, no oil, no fruit.It is like a thirsty man who eats salt:the more he consumes,the…

Poetic RenderingThough the ox draws water endlessly,its head bent in toildoes labor alone make it a devotee of the Guru?Though iron tongs grip a burning potwith skill and practiced caredoes…

Poetic RenderingWhat use is it to read, to listen, to labor in righteous acts,if Your living presence does not stir within me?“Shiva, Shiva!” I may cryyet without Your grace, it…

Poetic RenderingLike nine hounds let loose upon a single trembling hare,the body cries, “Spare me,”the mind cries, “Spare me,”as the senses claw and pull from every side.Before these ravenous dogs…

Poetic RenderingDetachment alone is the highest good.The moment one says, “I will attain,”the body whispers its pride.What then is the right use of this self?Whatever life bringsreceive it as coming…

Poetic RenderingAn elephant of great strengthheld steady by a tiny ankushado we call it weak?A vast mountainsplit open by a single diamonddo we call it small?Darkness that has lingered for…

Poetic RenderingAs a child longs for its mother,so I ache in longing for You.O Lord, shine with grace upon my mind.Dwell in my heart as its only home.Grant mercy, mercy…

Poetic RenderingCan the blind behold the mountainand measure the height of its peak?Can the nectar of immortalityflow into a heart closed by its own fate-bound beliefs?How shall he seethe treasure…