Summary In this vachana, Basavanna tests what can truly be called God. He says that Māri is sold for food and sold again for need. For the reader, Māri or…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna distinguishes true Bhakti from outward religious extremity. He says he has seen those who worship Vishnu and burn themselves, those who worship Jina and remain…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna distinguishes Kudalasangama Deva’s word from a scriptural word that hides violence. He says that the Lord’s word alone is merit. For the reader, merit here…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna dismantles caste-pride, false purity, and ritual violence at once. He begins with birth. All are born through the body, through flesh and womb. Therefore, no…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna questions the authority of religious claims, divine status, caste superiority, and external signs when they are not joined to truth. He begins with the image…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna questions the value of recitation, hearing, and mastery of the four Vedas when Linga-worship is absent. For the reader, the four Vedas represent the highest…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna contrasts outer purification with true knowledge of Kudalasangama Deva. He says that because people do not know the Lord, they hold grass in the hand.…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna rejects caste-pride by pointing to revered figures whose greatness cannot be contained by ordinary claims of birth and lineage. He names Vyasa, Markandeya, Mandodari, Agastya,…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna changes the meaning of lineage from birth to conduct. He says that the one who kills is truly degraded, and the one who consumes what…

Summary In this vachana, Basavanna exposes divided devotion. He describes a ritual-minded person who says, “I am a Bhakta, I am a Prasadi,” but whose conduct contradicts the claim. For…