November 30th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
प्रदोषे दीपकश्चन्द्रः प्रभाते दीपको रविः ।
त्रैलोक्ये दीपको धर्मः सुपुत्रः कुलदीपकः ॥

Transliteration:
pradoṣe dīpakaścandraḥ prabhāte dīpako raviḥ ।
trailokye dīpako dharmaḥ suputraḥ kuladīpakaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The guiding light at night is the moon; the guiding light during the day is the sun; virtue is the guiding light in all 3 worlds; (and) a good progeny is a shining star for the entire clan.

Commentary:

Just as the sun and moon light up the skies during the day and night respectively, just as one's virtuous deeds are one's identity in all the 3 worlds, a well-groomed, learned, humble child (can be either a son or a daughter—stands for 'offspring') is an asset to the whole clan. He upholds and shines not only his own name, but the name of his parents, family, and friends around him.

Such children are not only assets to their own families but prized possessions of the entire community. Society becomes a much better place, due to a whole generation of such children. Hence, it becomes the prime responsibility of the parents to help the children shape themselves - not just as individuals, but also as kind, responsible, and respectable citizens of the world.

Happiness is when we realize our children have turned out to be good people! 

pada vigrahaH:

प्रदोषे दीपकः चन्द्रः प्रभाते दीपकः रविः ।
pradoṣe dīpakaḥ candraḥ prabhāte dīpakaḥ raviḥ ।

त्रैलोक्ये दीपकः धर्मः सुपुत्रः कुलदीपकः ॥
trailokye dīpakaḥ dharmaḥ suputraḥ kuladīpakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pradoShe deepakashchandraH prabhaate deepako raviH ।
trailokye deepako dharmaH suputraH kuladeepakaH ॥

pradoShe deepakaH chandraH prabhaate deepakaH raviH ।

trailokye deepakaH dharmaH suputraH kuladeepakaH ॥

November 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पुण्यस्य फलमिच्छन्ति पुण्यं नेच्छन्ति मानवाः ।
न पापफलमिच्छन्ति पापं कुर्वन्ति यत्नतः ॥
- महाभारत


Transliteration:
puṇyasya phalamicchanti puṇyaṃ necchanti mānavāḥ ।
na pāpaphalamicchanti pāpaṃ kurvanti yatnataḥ ॥
- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Beings have a liking for the fruit of virtuous deeds, but not for (doing) them. (Also) they do not like the fruits of sinful actions but will do such deeds with effort.

Commentary:

People like to enjoy the fruit of meritorious deeds. But the problem is, they do not want to be righteous or perform their deeds with a pure heart.

They also do not want to be punished for their sinful actions but will engage in such actions with added curated effort.

This does not balance on His scale. A righteous deed gets a righteous reward, and a vicious deed brings a vain return.

Life is an echo.  What we send out comes right back to us.  Hence the adage warns us, "As you sow, so shall you reap!"  

pada vigrahaH:

पुण्यस्य फलम् इच्छन्ति पुण्यं न इच्छन्ति मानवाः ।
puṇyasya phalam icchanti puṇyaṃ na icchanti mānavāḥ ।

न पाप-फलम् इच्छन्ति पापं कुर्वन्ति यत्नतः ॥
na pāpa-phalam icchanti pāpaṃ kurvanti yatnataḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
puNyasya phalamichChanti puNyaM nechChanti maanavaaH ।
na paapaphalamichChanti paapaM kurvanti yatnataH ॥
- mahaabhaarata

puNyasya phalam ichChanti puNyaM na ichChanti maanavaaH ।

na paapa-phalam ichChanti paapaM kurvanti yatnataH ॥

November 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्यं ब्रूयात् प्रियं ब्रूयात् न ब्रूयात् सत्यमप्रियम् ।
प्रियञ्च नानृतं ब्रूयात् एष धर्मस्सनातनः ॥
-मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
satyaṃ brūyāt priyaṃ brūyāt na brūyāt satyamapriyam ।
priyañca nānṛtaṃ brūyāt eṣa dharmassanātanaḥ ॥
-manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Speak the truth, and speak favorably. Do not tell the truth if it is not favorable. Also, do not tell an untruth (though) it is favorable.  This is the eternal dharma.

Commentary:

The discipline of life should be -

1. to always speak the truth, but not twist the truth for one's own benefit;
2. to speak pleasant, endearing, and agreeable words;
3. not to speak words that although true, are hurtful;
4. not to speak untruth either, just because it sounds favorable and loving.

These are the ways of life suggested in the book Manusmṛti for a person to lead a significant, meaningful, and purposeful life as a human being. In life, one comes across many difficult situations.  A person who wants to live with a clear conscience and work towards the goals of life has no choice but to keep up this discipline in speaking the truth! The intent behind the words must be pure as well. 

When the very quest of human life is to realize the ultimate truth, how can one work with lies, deceit, etc., and expect to reach their goal?! Keeping focus on the goal is important to reach it. 

Truth is not for comfort, truth is for liberation. Because, in the end, truth is the only thing that truly matters. 

pada vigrahaH:

सत्यं ब्रूयात् प्रियं ब्रूयात् न ब्रूयात् सत्यम् अप्रियम् ।
satyaṃ brūyāt priyaṃ brūyāt na brūyāt satyam apriyam ।

प्रियं च न अनृतं ब्रूयात् एषः धर्मः सनातनः ॥
priyaṃ ca na anṛtaṃ brūyāt eṣaḥ dharmaḥ sanātanaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satyaM brUyaat priyaM brUyaat na brUyaat satyamapriyam ।
priya~ncha naanRutaM brUyaat eSha dharmassanaatanaH ॥
- manusmRuti

satyaM brUyaat priyaM brUyaat na brUyaat satyam apriyam ।

priyaM cha na anRutaM brUyaat eShaH dharmaH sanaatanaH ॥

November 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुशब्दस्त्वन्धकारः रुशब्दस्तु तन्निवारकः ।
अन्धकार निरोधत्वात् गुरुरित्यभिधीयते ॥

Transliteration:
guśabdastvandhakāraḥ ruśabdastu tannivārakaḥ ।
andhakāra nirodhatvāt gururityabhidhīyate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The syllable 'gu' stands for darkness; the syllable 'ru' stands for removal of that (darkness). Due to the removal of darkness, (he) is called a 'guru' (teacher).

Commentary:

Ignorance is considered as 'darkness'. Knowledge, on the contrary, is regarded as light. Just as there can't be darkness where there is light, there can't be ignorance where there is knowledge. The person who helps eradicate the darkness regarding our own true nature will be termed a 'guru'.  

All questions bow down in front of the exclamatory experience of the Guru!

There is not a thing in this world that can match what we receive from a guru. A guru is someone to whom each and every one of us is highly indebted.

Revere Gurus always!

pada vigrahaH:

गु-शब्दः तु अन्धकारः रु-शब्दः तु तत् निवारकः ।
gu-śabdaḥ tu andhakāraḥ ru-śabdaḥ tu tat nivārakaḥ ।

अन्धकार-निरोधत्वात् गुरुः इति अभिधीयते ॥
andhakāra-nirodhatvāt guruḥ iti abhidhīyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gushabdastvandhakaaraH rushabdastu tannivaarakaH ।
andhakaara nirodhatvaat gururityabhidhIyate ॥

gu-shabdaH tu andhakaaraH ru-shabdaH tu tat nivaarakaH ।

andhakaara-nirodhatvaat guruH iti abhidhIyate ॥

November 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गच्छत्पिपीलिका याति योजनानां शतान्यपि ।
अगच्छन् वैनतेयोऽपि पदमेकं न गच्छति ॥

Transliteration:
gacchatpipīlikā yāti yojanānāṃ śatānyapi ।
agacchan vainateyo'pi padamekaṃ na gacchati ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A moving ant can conquer a thousand miles. Despite being an eagle, he won't traverse a foot if immobile.

Commentary:

An ant is small and covers a very minuscule distance on the ground, with every step. But if he keeps at it, he can traverse miles together. (A 'yojana' is a measure of about 9 miles, hence 100 yojanas were rounded off to 1000 miles here.)

On the other hand,  an eagle has a majestic glide. His wingspan allows him to reach great distances, very quickly. However, if he is immobile and lazy, just the fact that he is an eagle won't do much good! He has to put his prowess and skills to use.  Only then can he achieve his goal. This is almost like the 'hare and the tortoise' race where 'slow and steady wins the race'.  Laziness has no room among the determined.

The message here is that: Industriousness will help one achieve his goals in life. Just possessing the means and power required to achieve them is not enough!

pada vigrahaH:
गच्छत्-पिपीलिका याति योजनानां शतानि अपि ।
gacchat-pipīlikā yāti yojanānāṃ śatāni api ।

अगच्छन् वैनतेयः अपि पदम् एकं न गच्छति ॥
agacchan vainateyaḥ api padam ekaṃ na gacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gachChatpipIlikaa yaati yojanaanaaM shataanyapi ।
agachChan vainateyo.pi padamekaM na gachChati ॥

gachChat-pipIlikaa yaati yojanaanaaM shataani api ।

agachChan vainateyaH api padam ekaM na gachChati ॥

November 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पुस्तकस्था तु या विद्या परहस्तगतं धनम् ।
कार्यकाले समुत्पन्ने न सा विद्या न तद्धनम् ॥

Transliteration:
pustakasthā tu yā vidyā parahastagataṃ dhanam ।
kāryakāle samutpanne na sā vidyā na taddhanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whether it is knowledge in a book or money that has been passed onto another - in times of need, in either case, neither (that) knowledge nor money (is yours).

Commentary:

Book knowledge is not knowledge. In a time-critical situation, one certainly won't be able to refer to his book before taking action.  Therefore, one's intellect should be the storehouse for his knowledge.  Only then can he proclaim mastery over that vidyā (knowledge).

Similarly, one may be extremely wealthy. But for whatever reason, if he doesn't have access or possession of his wealth, in a time of need then that wealth is of no use to him.  Only when it is available and accessible can he claim his stakes on that dhanam (money).

Do not store things in places where they might elude you later.  Store your assets where they belong.  Else, they may not be yours in times of need!

pada vigrahaH:
पुस्तकस्था तु या विद्या पर-हस्त गतं धनम् ।
pustakasthā tu yā vidyā para hasta-gataṃ dhanam ।

कार्यकाले समुत्पन्ने न सा विद्या न तत् धनम् ॥
kāryakāle samutpanne na sā vidyā na tat dhanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pustakasthaa tu yaa vidyaa parahastagataM dhanam ।
kaaryakaale samutpanne na saa vidyaa na taddhanam ॥

pustakasthaa tu yaa vidyaa para hasta-gataM dhanam ।

kaaryakaale samutpanne na saa vidyaa na tat dhanam ॥

November 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दानं भोगो नाशस्तिस्रो गतयो भवन्ति वित्तस्य  ।
यो न ददाति न भुङ्क्ते तस्य तृतीया गतिर्भवति ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
dānaṃ bhogo nāśastisro gatayo bhavanti vittasya ।
yo na dadāti na bhuṅkte tasya tṛtīyā gatirbhavati ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Charity, indulgence, and destruction are the 3 alternatives to wealth. One who does not use his wealth for charitable giving, or self-enjoyment will eventually attain the third state.

Commentary:

One's wealth and possessions are the most temporary of all. Wealth can attain 3 different outcomes -
1. It can be utilized for charitable purposes, and given for the benefit of others.
2. It can be used in self-indulgence; to entertain and please oneself.
3. It can be destroyed by falling into the wrong hands, theft, fire, or other types of natural calamities.

Wealth that doesn't achieve the first or second state will automatically attain the third.

One's wealth or resources shouldn't be limited to stagnation in a bank account.  Instead, it has to be put to use. This is a message for the stingy: accumulating wealth meaninglessly is not worthwhile. Even if one succeeds in keeping all his acquisitions intact until his last breath, they won't pass over with him to the afterlife. After his death, there is no guarantee that his wealth will be put to good use or fall into the wrong hands. What is the use of such wealth that he neither enjoyed nor used to make someone else happy?!

Where wealth accumulates, men decay.  Life is not about accumulation, it is about contribution.  Give some; enjoy some!

pada vigrahaH:
दानं भोगः नाशः तिस्रः गतयः भवन्ति वित्तस्य ।
dānaṃ bhogaḥ nāśaḥ tisraḥ gatayaḥ bhavanti vittasya ।

यः न ददाति न भुङ्क्ते तस्य तृतीया गतिः भवति ॥
yaḥ na dadāti na bhuṅkte tasya tṛtīyā gatiḥ bhavati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
daanaM bhogo naashastisro gatayo bhavanti vittasya ।
yo na dadaati na bhu~nkte tasya tRuteeyaa gatirbhavati ॥
- nItishataka

daanaM bhogaH naashaH tisraH gatayaH bhavanti vittasya ।

yaH na dadaati na bhu~nkte tasya tRuteeyaa gatiH bhavati ॥

November 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्यं माता पिता ज्ञानं धर्मो भ्राता दया सखः ।
शान्तिः पत्‍नी क्षमा पुत्रः षडेते मम बान्धवाः ॥


Transliteration:
satyaṃ mātā pitā jñānaṃ dharmo bhrātā dayā sakhaḥ ।
śāntiḥ pat‍nī kṣamā putraḥ ṣaḍete mama bāndhavāḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Truth is mother, knowledge is father, moral merit is brother, kindness is friend, peace is wife,  and forgiveness is son—these are my six relatives.

Commentary:

In this world, one may have a mother, father, brother/sister, spouse, friend, and progeny whom they identify themselves with. But in reality, one's true kin are truth, knowledge, righteousness, kindness, tranquillity, and forgiveness. 

These are the virtues and qualities that one should be with, at all times. Hence, one should live life like these are his true relatives. He should treat these values with the same love and respect as his kin. Actually, they are better than kin because mortal kin will part ways at some point in time. But these attributes will accompany him even after death.

Build a strong family that can support you at all times, because this family is not just an important thing, it is everything! 

pada vigrahaH:

सत्यं माता पिता ज्ञानं धर्मः भ्राता दया सखः ।
satyaṃ mātā pitā jñānaṃ dharmaḥ bhrātā dayā sakhaḥ ।

शान्तिः पत्‍नी क्षमा पुत्रः षट् एते मम बान्धवाः ॥
śāntiḥ pat‍nī kṣamā putraḥ ṣaṭ ete mama bāndhavāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satyaM maataa pitaa j~naanaM dharmo bhraataa dayaa sakhaH ।
shaantiH patnI kShamaa putraH ShaDete mama baandhavaaH ॥

satyaM maataa pitaa j~naanaM dharmaH bhraataa dayaa sakhaH ।

shaantiH patnI kShamaa putraH ShaT ete mama baandhavaaH ॥

November 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पठतो नास्ति मूर्खत्वं जपतो नास्ति पातकम् ।
मौनिनः कलहो नास्ति न भयं चास्ति जाग्रतः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
paṭhato nāsti mūrkhatvaṁ japato nāsti pātakam ।
mauninaḥ kalaho nāsti na bhayaṃ cāsti jāgrataḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A seeker/learner doesn't have imbecility; a contemplating person won't have sin; a silent observer won't get in strife; there is no fear for the awakened. (This could also be interpreted as - there is no fear for an alert person.)

Commentary:

Opposites cannot co-exist! 

Foolishness doesn't dare come near the learned. Sin doesn't set foot near an ascetic (one who contemplates). Quarrels are not present near those who sit silently. Similarly, fear does not dare to lurk near an awakened soul.

Just as there cannot be darkness in the presence of light or chills in the presence of fire, the above qualities cannot be present near their opposing positive qualities. Simply lighting even a small candle will dispel darkness in an instant, without any special undertaking.

The simplest way to overcome a negative quality is to bring in a quality that is the exact opposite of it. Then the negative quality gets uprooted automatically, without any extra effort. Positivity gets established automatically!

pada vigrahaH:

पठतः न अस्ति मूर्खत्वं जपतः न अस्ति पातकम् ।
paṭhataḥ na asti mūrkhatvaṁ japataḥ na asti pātakam ।

मौनिनः कलहः न अस्ति न भयं च अस्ति जाग्रतः ॥
mauninaḥ kalahaḥ na asti na bhayaṃ ca asti jāgrataḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
paThato naasti mUrkhatvaM japato naasti paatakam ।
mouninaH kalaho naasti na bhayaM chaasti jaagrataH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

paThataH na asti mUrkhatvaM japataH na asti paatakam ।

mouninaH kalahaH na asti na bhayaM cha asti jaagrataH ॥

November 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अजायुद्धम् ऋषिश्राद्धं प्रभाते मेघडम्बरम् ।
दम्पत्योः कलहश्चैव परिणामो न किञ्चन॥
Transliteration:
ajāyuddham ṛṣiśrāddhaṃ prabhāte meghaḍambaram ।
dampatyoḥ kalahaścaiva pariṇāmo na kiñcana॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Female goat fights; rituals/ceremonies for ascetics; the roar of clouds early in the morning; and a quarrel between a couple - (all these) do not yield any results.

Commentary:

Ram (male goats) fights were common in the olden days. But a battle between two does (female goats) is unheard of.   They don't have the horns needed for fighting.

Ascetics are those people who have given up everything and do not have any ties. Elaborate ceremonies or rituals after they pass on are not essential.  (As a matter of fact, they would have finished performing their own last rites before taking up sanyāsa!)

Thunderous clouds of the early morning do not last long. They melt away as soon as the first ray of sun touches them.  All the noise they made would have been for no good reason.

Finally, a rift between a husband and wife is useless. If the couple does not come to a common ground, or if they do not agree to disagree and move on, life will not be pleasant. Also, in due course, children will have to bear the brunt of the quarrel between their parents. On all accounts, a quarrel between a husband and wife is simply futile!!

Do not indulge in wasteful efforts.

pada vigrahaH:
अजा-युद्धम् ऋषि-श्राद्धं प्रभाते मेघ-डम्बरम् ।
ajā-yuddham ṛṣi-śrāddhaṃ prabhāte megha-ḍambaram ।

दम्पत्योः कलहः च एव परिणामः न किञ्चन ॥
dampatyoḥ kalahaḥ ca eva pariṇāmaḥ na kiñcana ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ajaayuddham RuShishraaddhaM prabhaate meghaDambaram ।
dampatyoH kalahashchaiva pariNaamo na ki~nchana॥

ajaa-yuddham RuShi-shraaddhaM prabhaate megha-Dambaram ॥

dampatyoH kalahaH cha eva pariNaamaH na ki~nchana ॥

November 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गतानुगतिको लोके न कोऽपि पारमार्थिकः ।
गङ्गासैकतलिङ्गेन नष्‍टं मे ताम्रभाजनम् ॥

Transliteration:
gatānugatiko loke na ko'pi pāramārthikaḥ ।
gaṅgāsaikataliṅgena naṣ‍ṭaṃ me tāmrabhājanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

People of the world are just followers, nobody gets the real meaning. (In the episode of) the sand 'liṅgam' on (the banks of) Gaṅgā, I lost my copper pot.

Commentary:

This verse has the background of a parable.  Here, a person had a copper pot filled with coins. One day, he planned to undertake a pilgrimage.  Instead of carrying his accumulated wealth, and risking losing it, he wanted to hide it and procure it upon his return.  So he dug a hole in the sand on the banks of the river Gaṅgā.  He hid the pot and filled up the hole. How is he to locate where he buried his pot?  To identify the location upon his return, he made a 'liṅgam' (a representation of Lord Śiva) on that spot, did a small pooja (worship), and left.  This way, he could come back and retrieve his stash from below the liṅgam.

But alas! Without knowing why he was making the liṅgam, the onlookers thought it was a ritual that was supposed to be done upon visiting the sacred place! Each and every visitor thenceforward started making their own liṅgam and worshipping, all around the first one.

Upon his return, the person who hid the pot was perplexed to see the numerous liṅgam-s, all over the place. Obviously, he couldn't locate the one he had made to mark the secret location!

In utter despair, he said that the entire world simply and blindly follows anything that anyone does, without a rhyme or reason.  They are like herded sheep who do not think rationally, but will simply follow the crowd!

Anything one does or follows should have a purpose. If the purpose or meaning of the action is not understood, the result of that action can't be of much use either.

Unfortunately, most people would rather die than think and many of them do!  Think through every action and its purpose.

pada vigrahaH:

गत-अनुगतिकः लोके न कः अपि पारमार्थिकः ।
gata-anugatikaḥ loke na kaḥ api pāramārthikaḥ ।

गङ्गा-सैकत-लिङ्गेन नष्‍टं मे ताम्र-भाजनम् ॥
gaṅgā-saikata-liṅgena naṣ‍ṭaṃ me tāmra-bhājanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gataanugatiko loke na ko.pi paaramaarthikaH ।
ga~ngaasaikatali~ngena naShTaM me taamrabhaajanam ॥

gata-anugatikaH loke na kaH api paaramaarthikaH ।

ga~ngaa-saikata-li~ngena naShTaM me taamra-bhaajanam ॥

November 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अति दानाद्बलिर्बद्धः ह्यति मानात् सुयोधनः ।
अति लौल्याद्रावणो हन्तः अति सर्वत्र वर्जयेत् ॥

Transliteration:
ati dānādbalirbaddhaḥ hyati mānāt suyodhanaḥ ।
ati laulyādrāvaṇo hantaḥ ati sarvatra varjayet ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Bali was bound because of his extreme charity, Suyodhana (Duryodhana) was killed due to his excessive pride, (and) far too much lust brought an end to Rāvaṇa. (Hence) give up 'excess' in everything.

Commentary:

Moderation is the key!

Bali, Duryodhana and Rāvaṇa have set examples of how NOT to overindulge in any kind of vasanās or tendencies.

It is known that Bali was very famous for his charity.  He gave so much that he gave up himself!  Not that it was a bad outcome as he surrendered to Lord Viṣṇu in the end, but it was his 'pride' about being able to give anything that brought about his demise. He was bound by his overzealousness in giving.

An insatiable desire for material pleasures, pride, and ego caused Duryodhana's downfall.  He was not ready to yield to any advice nor heed any wellwishers' words.

Rāvaṇa broke the barrier of lust when he abducted Sītā.  By wanting to marry another's wife, he asked for his own death.

Anything that exceeds the required boundaries will prove fatal. Like they say, 'Too much of anything is too bad'. Even if one is eating their most favorite dish, they can relish it only for so long as it will begin to lose its allure. However if one eats forcefully, it becomes a health hazard. Similarly, anything that crosses over the limit brings unwanted repercussions.

Check thy habits.  Know thy limits.

pada vigrahaH:
अति दानात् बलिः बद्धः हि अति मानात् सुयोधनः ।
ati dānāt baliḥ baddhaḥ hi ati mānāt suyodhanaḥ ।

अति लौल्यात् रावणः हन्तः अति सर्वत्र वर्जयेत् ॥
ati laulyāt rāvaṇaḥ hantaḥ ati sarvatra varjayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ati daanaadbalirbaddhaH hyati maanaat suyodhanaH ।
ati loulyaadraavaNo hantaH ati sarvatra varjayet ॥

ati daanaat baliH baddhaH hi ati maanaat suyodhanaH ।

ati loulyaat raavaNaH hantaH ati sarvatra varjayet ॥

November 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुखार्थी वा त्यजेद्विद्यां विद्यार्थी वा त्यजेत्सुखम् ।
सुखार्थिनः कुतो विद्या कुतो विद्यार्थिनः सुखम् ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व


Transliteration:
sukhārthī vā tyajedvidyāṃ vidyārthī vā tyajetsukham ।
sukhārthinaḥ kuto vidyā kuto vidyārthinaḥ sukham ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If one is a seeker of pleasures then he should give up (the quest for) vidyā (knowledge); if he is a seeker of knowledge then he should forego comforts. For the one longing for comfort, where does knowledge come from? For the one desirous of knowledge, where do comforts come from?

Commentary:

Convenience and scholarship do not go hand in hand... If one goes east, the other goes west! One who longs to learn and yearns for knowledge cannot afford to bask in comfort. A student should work towards learning more every minute of the day. His thoughts and deeds should always be oriented toward achieving a higher goal. Only then, can one be called a true student!

When presented with a choice, the seeker of knowledge chooses to pursue the path of knowledge as against choosing something that gives momentary pleasure.  If hard work is his weapon, success will be his slave. 

Let's keep learning.  Let's keep working! 

pada vigrahaH:

सुख-अर्थी वा त्यजेत् विद्यां विद्या-अर्थी वा त्यजेत् सुखम्।
sukha-arthī vā tyajet vidyāṃ vidyā-arthī vā tyajet sukham।

सुख-अर्थिनः कुतः विद्या कुतः विद्या-अर्थिनः सुखम् ॥
sukha-arthinaḥ kutaḥ vidyā kutaḥ vidyā-arthinaḥ sukham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sukhaarthI vaa tyajedvidyaaM vidyaarthI vaa tyajetsukham ।
sukhaarthinaH kuto vidyaa kuto vidyaarthinaH sukham ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

sukha-arthI vaa tyajet vidyaaM vidyaa-arthI vaa tyajet sukham ।

sukha-arthinaH kutaH vidyaa kutaH vidyaa-arthinaH sukham ॥

November 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वागाडम्बरवान् लोके न किञ्चित्कर्तुमर्हति ।
गर्जद्‍घना न वर्षन्ति न गर्जन्ति घनाघनाः ॥


Transliteration:
vāgāḍambaravān loke na kiñcitkartumarhati ।
garjad‍ghanā na varṣanti na garjanti ghanāghanāḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

People who just talk will not achieve much. Thundering clouds do not shower, (and) dense showering clouds do not thunder!

Commentary:

Simply talking will not accomplish much. Just as the clouds that thunder don't shower, people that only talk don't get much done. The dense dark clouds that truly quench the thirst of the earth do not make noise (thunder). Instead, they silently do their job, showering their cool waters on Mother Earth. They do not expect applause from the world for their deeds either. They do their job and in due course, literally and figuratively, lose themselves. They sacrifice themselves completely for the benefit of the world. Yet, they'll continue to do their deeds without much ado!

Such should be our deeds as well. There's no point in blowing our own trumpets regarding our achievements.

Work for a cause, not for applause.  Live life to express, not to impress.  Focus on what truly matters and actions will speak for themselves, letting the doer remain humble.  

pada vigrahaH:

वाक् आडम्बरवान् लोके न किञ्चित् कर्तुम् अर्हति ।
vāk āḍambaravān loke na kiñcit kartum arhati ।

गर्जत् घनाः न वर्षन्ति न गर्जन्ति घनाघनाः ॥
garjat ghanāḥ na varṣanti na garjanti ghanāghanāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vaagaaDambaravaan loke na ki~nchitkartumarhati ।
garjadghanaa na varShanti na garjanti ghanaaghanaaH ॥

vaak aaDambaravaan loke na ki~nchit kartum arhati ।

garjat ghanaaH na varShanti na garjanti ghanaaghanaaH ॥

November 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
क्षमा शस्त्रं करे यस्य दुर्जनः किं करिष्यति ।
अतृणे पतितो वह्निः स्वयमेवोपशाम्यति ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व

Transliteration:
kṣamā śastraṃ kare yasya durjanaḥ kiṃ kariṣyati ।
atṛṇe patito vahniḥ svayamevopaśāmyati ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

What can an evil-doer do to one whose weapon is forgiveness/forbearance? A spark of fire (that has) fallen where there is no grass, burns itself out.

Commentary:

A spark of fire can flare into a blaze quickly, provided the circumstances are in its favor. If the spark comes in contact with things that can fuel its rage, it will surely turn fierce. But for a spark that has fallen on the ground, where there is no grass or any other fuel, there is no choice but to extinguish itself.

Similarly, a troublemaker can't do much harm to a person armed with the weapon of forgiveness and forbearance. If one keeps forgiving the evil-doer, he can't last much longer than the spark that has fallen on empty ground.

Isn't this the best way to resolve conflicts?

pada vigrahaH:
क्षमा शस्त्रं करे यस्य दुर्जनः किं करिष्यति ।

kṣamā śastraṃ kare yasya durjanaḥ kiṃ kariṣyati ।

अतृणे पतितः वह्निः स्वयम् एव उपशाम्यति ॥
atṛṇe patitaḥ vahniḥ svayam eva upaśāmyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kShamaa shastraM kare yasya durjanaH kiM kariShyati ।
atRuNe patito vahniH swayamevopashaamyati ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

kShamaa shastraM kare yasya durjanaH kiM kariShyati ।

atRuNe patitaH vahniH swayam eva upashaamyati ॥

Novmeber 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सन्तप्‍तायसि संस्थितस्य पयसो नामापि न श्रूयते
मुक्ताकारतया तदेव नलिनीपत्रस्थितं दृश्यते ।
स्वात्यां सागरशुक्तिमध्यपतितं सन्मौक्तिकं जायते
प्रायेणाधममध्यमोत्तमगुणाः संसर्गतो जायते ॥
- नीतिशतक


Transliteration:
santap‍tāyasi saṃsthitasya payaso nāmāpi na śrūyate
muktākāratayā tadeva nalinīpatrasthitaṃ dṛśyate ।
svātyāṃ sāgaraśuktimadhyapatitaṃ sanmauktikaṃ jāyate
prāyeṇādhamamadhyamottamaguṇāḥ saṃsargato jāyate ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Water, when placed on a hot iron disappears without a sign. When placed on a lotus leaf, the droplet of water shines as if it were a pearl. (However,) if the same water falls into a pearl shell during the svātī rains, it turns into a good pearl! Most likely, inferior, mediocre, and noble qualities arise from the company kept. 

Commentary:

A single droplet of water can attain a completely different state, depending on where it falls.

When placed on a hot iron the droplet evaporates almost instantly, leaving no trace behind. This is akin to keeping inferior company—nothing of value remains.

If the same droplet lands on a lotus leaf, it glistens like a pearl. Though it only seems like a pearl, it is still preserved, unlike the one on the iron. This mirrors the impact of mediocre company—while it may appear valuable on the surface, its true worth remains unfulfilled.

However, if the droplet falls into a pearl shell at the right time—during the svātī rains—it transforms into a genuine pearl of high quality. Though it began as mere water, it attained the honor of becoming something precious. Such is the effect of noble company.

As the saying goes, "Tell me your friends and I will tell you your character." Our environment shapes our outcomes, and the company we keep deeply influences our growth. To nurture nobility and virtue, we must surround ourselves with people who embody those qualities. 

Whether through people, books, or even thoughts—good company brings out the best in us.  

Character-building subhāṣitas too, like noble company, guide us toward growth and transformation. They help cultivate virtues, refine our character, and lead us to true nobility. Surrounding ourselves with these pearls of wisdom enriches us and gives us the best company.  

This analogy of the droplet and its transformation beautifully encapsulates the essence of seeking noble company and timeless wisdom. Therefore, this verse serves as the inspiration for the title of this collection, 'Sanskrit Pearls', symbolizing the journey from simplicity to refinement, from latent potential to realized brilliance. 

May we all strive to reflect our highest potential always!  

pada vigrahaH:

सन्तप्‍त-अयसि संस्थितस्य पयसः नाम अपि न श्रूयते
santap‍ta-ayasi saṃsthitasya payasaḥ nāma api na śrūyate

मुक्त-आकारतया तत् एव नलिनी-पत्र-स्थितं दृश्यते ।
mukta-ākāratayā tat eva nalinī-patra-sthitaṃ dṛśyate ।

स्वात्यां सागर-शुक्ति-मध्य-पतितं सत् मौक्तिकं जायते
svātyāṃ sāgara-śukti-madhya-patitaṃ sat mauktikaṃ jāyate

प्रायेण अधम-मध्यम-उत्तम-गुणाः संसर्गतः जायते ॥
prāyeṇa adhama-madhyama-uttama-guṇāḥ saṃsargataḥ jāyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
santaptaayasi saMsthitasya payaso naamaapi na shrUyate
muktaakaaratayaa tadeva nalinIpatrasthitaM dRushyate ।
swaatyaaM saagarashuktimadhyapatitaM sanmouktikaM jaayate
praayeNaadhamamadhyamottamaguNaaH saMsargato jaayate ॥
- neetishataka

santapta-ayasi saMsthitasya payasaH naama api na shrUyate

mukta-aakaaratayaa tat eva nalinI-patra-sthitaM dRushyate ।

swaatyaaM saagara-shukti-madhya-patitaM sat mouktikaM jaayate

praayeNa adhama-madhyama-uttama-guNaaH saMsargataH jaayate ॥

November 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुखस्यानन्तरं दुःखं दुःखस्यानन्तरं सुखम् ।
चक्रवत्परिवर्तन्ते सुखानि च दुःखानि च ॥
 
Transliteration:
sukhasyānantaraṃ duḥkhaṃ duḥkhasyānantaraṃ sukham ।
cakravatparivartante sukhāni ca duḥkhāni ca ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Joy is followed by pain and suffering is followed by happiness. Joys and sorrows rotate like a wheel.

Commentary:

Have patience!

Eventually, all sorrows will be followed by happiness. Keep the faith.

All celebrations fizzle out and in creeps sadness. Do not lose your composure when happy.

Life's like a wheel that keeps turning—what is on top will eventually hit the bottom and that which is at rock bottom will eventually rise to the top. 

When things are bad, remember—it won't always be this way.  Take one day at a time. 

When things are good, remember—it won't always be this way. Enjoy every moment. 

All we can do is remember—this too shall pass—in both circumstances!

pada vigrahaH:
सुखस्य अनन्तरं दुःखं दुःखस्य अनन्तरं सुखम् ।

sukhasya anantaraṃ duḥkhaṃ duḥkhasya anantaraṃ sukham ।

चक्रवत् परिवर्तन्ते सुखानि च दुःखानि च ॥
cakravat parivartante sukhāni ca duḥkhāni ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sukhasyaanantaraM duHkhaM duHkhasyaanantaraM sukham ।
chakravatparivartante sukhaani cha duHkhaani cha ॥

sukhasya anantaraM duHkhaM duHkhasya anantaraM sukham ।

chakravat parivartante sukhaani cha duHkhaani cha ॥

November 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शीलभारवती कान्ता पुष्पभारवती लता ।
अर्थभारवती वाणी भजते कामपि श्रियं ॥
- रसगङ्गाधर

Transliteration:
śīlabhāravatī kāntā puṣpabhāravatī latā ।
arthabhāravatī vāṇī bhajate kāmapi śriyaṃ ॥
- rasagaṅgādhara

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A woman brimming with good character, a creeper filled with blooms, and a speech overflowing with purpose—who else does prosperity turn to?!

Commentary:

Prosperity automatically appears where there is value.

A woman with integrity gets respect, instantly. A creeper filled with blossoms naturally attracts anyone's eye.  Similarly, pleasant words and meaningful speech will appease everyone.

In a place where these characteristics are present, prosperity will have no means to resist. Prosperity always offers itself to such people.  

To beget prosperity, one must deserve prosperity. Live purposeful lives to be prosperous!

pada vigrahaH:
शील-भारवती कान्ता पुष्प-भारवती लता ।

śīla-bhāravatī kāntā puṣpa-bhāravatī latā ।

अर्थ-भारवती वाणी भजते काम् अपि श्रियं ॥
artha-bhāravatī vāṇī bhajate kām api śriyaṃ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sheelabhaaravatI kaantaa puShpabhaaravatI lataa ।
arthabhaaravatI vaaNI bhajate kaamapi shriyaM ॥
- rasaga~ngaadhara

sheela-bhaaravatI kaantaa puShpa-bhaaravatI lataa ।

artha-bhaaravatI vaaNI bhajate kaam api shriyaM ॥

November 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धनिकः श्रोत्रियो राजा नदी वैद्यस्तु पञ्चमः ।
पञ्च यत्र न विद्यन्ते न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:
dhanikaḥ śrotriyo rājā nadī vaidyastu pañcamaḥ ।
pañca yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not live in a place, even for a single day, where the following 5 are not available—a wealthy person, theologian, king, river, and the doctor is the fifth.

Commentary:

Basic essentials!

When civilizations emerged, the early settlers would see if the land they selected was appropriate to build their society and if the basic necessities were satisfied.

Similarly, in a land where we want to call home, there should be:

1. Wealthy person—indicates prosperity.
2. Theologian—represents the faith and education of the society.
3. King (not necessarily the same designation, but a leader)—depicts order in the society and not anarchy.
4. River—shows that the land is cultivatable and will aid in prosperity.
5. Doctor—so that in times of illness, care is available instantaneously.

These five essentials promise progress and prosperity to the community.  Also, it is the responsibility and prime duty of these figures, to make sure that society receives their services in a timely and appropriate manner.

Make a home where there are prospects for prosperity!

pada vigrahaH:
धनिकः श्रोत्रियः राजा नदी वैद्यः तु पञ्चमः ।
dhanikaḥ śrotriyaḥ rājā nadī vaidyaḥ tu pañcamaḥ ।

पञ्च यत्र न विद्यन्ते न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
pañca yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

dhanikaH shrotriyo raajaa nadI vaidyastu pa~nchamaH ।

pa~ncha yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

dhanikaH shrotriyaH raajaa nadI vaidyaH tu pa~nchamaH ।

pa~ncha yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

November 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
हंसः श्वेतो बकः श्वेतः को भेदो बकहंसयोः ।
नीरक्षीरविवेके तु हंसो हंसो बको बकः ॥

Transliteration:
haṃsaḥ śveto bakaḥ śvetaḥ ko bhedo bakahaṃsayoḥ ।
nīrakṣīraviveke tu haṃso haṃso bako bakaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The swan is white; the stork is white. What's the difference between the swan and the stork? When it comes to the knowledge of water and milk—a swan is a swan, and a stork is a stork.

Commentary:

Allegory says that a swan has the ability to separate milk from water. If a bowl of milk mixed with water is offered, it supposedly will only take the milk particles leaving behind the water! The stork obviously does not possess this skill. He might look like a swan; travel with a swan; fly, walk, or even act like a swan—but that doesn't make him a swan.

The metaphor of the swan and stork is given to people. They have to be who they are. It won't do any good to talk, walk, or pretend to be someone else... External appearances don't make a difference, it's what's inside that matters!

Be yourself, everyone else is already taken! Beauty begins the moment you decide to be real.  

pada vigrahaH:
हंसः श्वेतः बकः श्वेतः कः भेदः बक हंसयोः ।
haṃsaḥ śvetaḥ bakaḥ śvetaḥ kaḥ bhedaḥ baka haṃsayoḥ ।

नीर क्षीर विवेके तु हंसः हंसः बकः बकः ॥
nīra kṣīra viveke tu haṃsaḥ haṃsaḥ bakaḥ bakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
haMsaH shvetao bakaH shvetaH ko bhedo bakahaMsayoH ।
nIrakShIraviveke tu haMso haMso bako bakaH ॥

haMsaH shvetaH bakaH shvetaH kaH bhedaH baka haMsayoH ।

nIra kShIra viveke tu haMsaH haMsaH bakaH bakaH ॥

November 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
भाषासु मुख्या मधुरा दिव्या गीर्वाणभारती ।
तस्यां हि काव्यं मधुरं तस्मादपि सुभाषितम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
bhāṣāsu mukhyā madhurā divyā gīrvāṇabhāratī ।
tasyāṃ hi kāvyaṃ madhuraṃ tasmādapi subhāṣitam ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Among all languages, Saṃskṛtam (Sanskrit) is the most important, pleasant, and divine. In that (Sanskrit), poetry is the sweetest. And in that (poetry), subhāṣita is most charming.

Commentary:

Among all the languages, only Saṃskṛtam came to be defined as the 'devabhāṣā'. Not just because it is the language spoken by the Gods, but because it is as divine as the Gods themselves. It is the origin and mother of many other languages. Our scriptures, which are like a manual to the very existence of life, are written in Sanskrit. (The Vedas tell how life came about, what the purpose of life is, and our true nature.)

In such a charming language, the flavor of poetry is the absolute sweetest.  And among all the sweet poetry, the essence of subhāṣita-s is like honey! Therefore, subhāṣitas are the sweetest among the sweetest of the sweetest! :)

Now, one can only imagine the richness of a subhāṣita! Such is the value of a 'pearl of wisdom'. These pearls are relevant for any generation, of any era.

This is the beauty of Sanskrit! There are even subhāṣita-s about subhāṣita-s themselves.

We must start applying them in our daily lives.  Let's get learning! 

pada vigrahaH:
भाषासु मुख्या मधुरा दिव्या गीर्वाणभारती ।
bhāṣāsu mukhyā madhurā divyā gīrvāṇabhāratī ।

तस्यां हि काव्यं मधुरं तस्मात् अपि सुभाषितम् ॥
tasyāṃ hi kāvyaṃ madhuraṃ tasmāt api subhāṣitam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
bhaaShaasu mukhyaa madhuraa divyaa gIrvaaNabhaaratI ।
tasyaaM hi kaavyaM madhuraM tasmaadapi subhaaShitam ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

bhaaShaasu mukhyaa madhuraa divyaa gIrvaaNabhaaratI ।

tasyaaM hi kaavyaM madhuraM tasmaat api subhAShitam ॥

November 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
प्रियवाक्यप्रदानेन सर्वे तुष्यन्ति जन्तवः ।
तस्मात्तदेव वक्तव्यं वचने का दरिद्रता ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
priyavākyapradānena sarve tuṣyanti jantavaḥ ।
tasmāttadeva vaktavyaṃ vacane kā daridratā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

All beings are pleased when kind words are uttered. Hence speak only thus. Is there a scarcity for (good) words?

Commentary:

Animals too, heed to nice words.  Then, what to say of humans?!

There can be a scarcity of rain which causes drought and leads to famine, which in turn brings a scarcity of food. There can also be a scarcity of wealth which leads to poverty. There can be a scarcity of medicines, leading to diseases. But can a scarcity of nice words ever occur?!  Can anyone ever say, "Sorry, I am fresh out of stock; I ran out of good words"?!  It costs us nothing, however, the good feeling it leaves in the other person is priceless! All we need is a good heart.  

People always respond better to sugar rather than vinegar. Nice words bring good responses from all creatures. Even animals respond to kind words, says the poet. So why hold back?!

The words we sow today, we shall reap in our future.  It is said that people may forget what you said or did, but will never forget how you made them feel! That feeling is given to people through the words that are spoken.

Etiquette means behaving ourselves a little better than is absolutely essential. Let's be generous with our words and speak pleasantly!

pada vigrahaH:
प्रिय वाक्य प्रदानेन सर्वे तुष्यन्ति जन्तवः ।

priya vākya pradānena sarve tuṣyanti jantavaḥ ।

तस्मात् तदेव वक्तव्यं वचने का दरिद्रता ॥
tasmāt tadeva vaktavyaṃ vacane kā daridratā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
priyavaakyapradaanena sarve tuShyanti jantavaH ।
tasmaattadeva vaktavyaM vachane kaa daridrataa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

priya vaakya pradaanena sarve tuShyanti jantavaH ।

tasmaat tadeva vaktavyaM vachane kaa daridrataa ॥

November 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुणवज्जनसंसर्गात् याति नीचोऽपि गौरवम् ।
पुष्पमालाप्रसङ्गेण सूत्रं शिरसि धार्यते ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि


Transliteration:
guṇavajjanasaṃsargāt yāti nīco'pi gauravam ।
puṣpamālāprasaṅgeṇa sūtraṃ śirasi dhāryate ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Due to the company of good people, even an insignificant person will attain respectability. Under the pretext of the flowers, the thread (too) gets worn on the head.

Commentary:

Flowers get tied into a garland using a string. This thread, in the form of a garland, will be offered to the Lord. It attains the highest respect of being at His feet or better yet, close to His heart. People would even wear it on their heads! Usually, nobody would wear just a string of thread on their hair as an adornment. But it is the company of the flowers that brings honor to the thread.

Similarly, being in the company of the meritorious will bring respect and dignity to the insignificant as well.

No road is long when the company is good.  Keep good company!

pada vigrahaH:

गुणवत् जन-संसर्गात् याति नीचः अपि गौरवम् ।

guṇavat jana-saṃsargāt yāti nīcaḥ api gauravam ।

पुष्प-माला-प्रसङ्गेण सूत्रं शिरसि धार्यते ॥
puṣpa-mālā-prasaṅgeṇa sūtraṃ śirasi dhāryate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guNavajjanasaMsargaat yaati nIcho.pi gauravam ।
puShpamaalaaprasa~ngeNa sUtraM shirasi dhaaryate ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

guNavat jana-saMsargaat yaati nIchaH api gauravam ।

puShpa-maalaa-prasa~ngeNa sUtraM shirasi dhaaryate ॥

November 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अन्यक्षेत्रे कृतं पापं पुण्यक्षेत्रे विनश्यति ।
पुण्यक्षेत्रे कृतं पापं वज्रलेपो भविष्यति ॥

Transliteration:
anyakṣetre kṛtaṃ pāpaṃ puṇyakṣetre vinaśyati ।
puṇyakṣetre kṛtaṃ pāpaṃ vajralepo bhaviṣyati ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A blunder committed in any arena gets absolved in the field of virtue. (Whereas) a folly committed in the field of virtue becomes set in stone.

Commentary:

There is a respite for sins committed in ignorance. Those sins get negated due to one's virtuous deeds. However, a blunder committed in the name of virtue becomes irreversible, as if engraved in stone. Those scars can never be erased, and their effects are never offset.

In the arena of virtue, there is another important underlying aspect.  It is trust.  Cheating in the name of virtue undermines that bond of trust too.  This damage becomes irreparable. 

One should beware of cheating in the name of virtue. There are no remedies or pardons for that!

pada vigrahaH:
अन्य-क्षेत्रे कृतं पापं पुण्य-क्षेत्रे विनश्यति ।

anya-kṣetre kṛtaṃ pāpaṃ puṇya-kṣetre vinaśyati ।

पुण्य-क्षेत्रे कृतं पापं वज्र-लेपः भविष्यति ॥
puṇya-kṣetre kṛtaṃ pāpaṃ vajra-lepaḥ bhaviṣyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anyakShetre kRutaM paapaM puNyakShetre vinashyati ।
puNyakShetre kRutaM paapaM vajralepo bhaviShyati ॥

anya-kShetre kRutaM paapaM puNya-kShetre vinashyati ।

puNya-kShetre kRutaM paapaM vajra-lepaH bhaviShyati ॥

November 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आशा नाम मनुष्याणां काचिदाश्चर्यशृङ्खला ।
यया बद्धाः प्रधावन्ति मुक्तास्तिष्ठन्ति पङ्‍गुवत् ॥

Transliteration:
āśā nāma manuṣyāṇāṃ kācidāścaryaśṛṅkhalā ।
yayā baddhāḥ pradhāvanti muktāstiṣṭhanti paṅ‍guvat ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Desire is the name of a strange binding for man. Those tied keep running, but those free (muktāḥ) sit as if limp.

Commentary:

Those tied to desires keep running to achieve them. Those devoid of desires sit relaxed.

If one is tied he should be limited to a place, unable to run. Antithetically, this verse shows that those tied (to desires) are the ones who are always on the run!  Desire is such a strong thing, while on the path of acquiring it, it can drive one to extremes.  But those who are free from desires have nothing to run after.  They sit unperturbed and without any agitations.

Beware of desires and where they take you.  Fewer the desires, more the peace! 

pada vigrahaH:
आशा नाम मनुष्याणां काचित् आश्चर्य-शृङ्खला ।
āśā nāma manuṣyāṇāṃ kācit āścarya-śṛṅkhalā ।

यया बद्धाः प्रधावन्ति मुक्ताः तिष्ठन्ति पङ्‍गुवत् ॥
yayā baddhāḥ pradhāvanti muktāḥ tiṣṭhanti paṅ‍guvat ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aashaa naama manuShyaaNaaM kaachidaashcharya shRu~nkhalaa ।
yayaa baddhaaH pradhaavanti muktaastiShThanti pa~nguvat ॥

aashaa naama manuShyaaNaaM kaachit aashcharya-shRu~nkhalaa ।

yayaa baddhaaH pradhaavanti muktaaH tiShThanti pa~nguvat ॥

November 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनाहूताः स्वयं यान्ति रसास्वादविलोलुपाः ।
निवारिता न गच्छन्ति मक्षिका इव भिक्षुकाः ॥
Transliteration:
anāhūtāḥ svayaṃ yānti rasāsvādavilolupāḥ ।
nivāritā na gacchanti makṣikā iva bhikṣukāḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Those desirous of food come uninvited. Like flies, beggars will not leave even when deterred.

Commentary:

When hunger strikes, self-esteem is thrown to the wind! Just like flies that continue swarming around fruit despite being shooed, a beggar keeps coming back asking for alms, even if he is shunned many times.

Here, the analogy of a beggar is given to anyone who persistently runs after pleasures.  He will not remember etiquette or self-esteem.  When desire and greed strike, he will keep coming back for more of it at any cost.  Such a person is no better than a beggar or the flies that keep lingering shamelessly!   

Without proper judgment, one will behave like a beggar when desire or greed blinds his thoughts.

Know when to give up!

pada vigrahaH:
अनाहूताः स्वयं यान्ति रस-आस्वाद विलोलुपाः ।
anāhūtāḥ svayaṃ yānti rasa-āsvāda vilolupāḥ ।

निवारिता न गच्छन्ति मक्षिकाः इव भिक्षुकाः ॥
nivāritā na gacchanti makṣikāḥ iva bhikṣukāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anaahUtaaH svayaM yaanti rasaasvaadavilolupaaH ।
nivaaritaa na gachChanti makShikaa iva bhikShukaaH ॥

anaahUtaaH svayaM yaanti rasa-aasvaada vilolupaaH ।

nivaaritaa na gachChanti makShikaaH iva bhikShukaaH ॥

November 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अजरामरवत् प्राज्ञः विद्यामर्थं च साधयेत् ।
गृहीत इव केशेषु मृत्युना धर्ममाचरेत् ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका

Transliteration:
ajarāmaravat prājñaḥ vidyāmarthaṃ ca sādhayet ।
gṛhīta iva keśeṣu mṛtyunā dharmamācaret ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:
Intelligent people pursue knowledge and wealth as if (they are) ageless and eternal. (But) they tread (on the path) of dharma, as if, death were holding them by the hair.

Commentary:

It is well known that one should perform virtuous deeds before passing on from this life. Procrastinating those deeds for old age is not an option for the learned. Intelligent people perform meritorious actions at all times, as if, death were grabbing them by their hair, ready to snatch their life away.  To them, each action would seem as if it was their last deed. Only then, can one perform dharma throughout their life!

But, when learning and earning, their perspective shifts completely in the opposite direction.  They pursue these two fields with the same vibrancy as they did in their youth as if they are timeless and ageless.  There is no end to learning. One lifetime is just not enough for all the learning that can be done, so they waste no time. To them, sitting idle and not being productive is not an option. They strive to contribute to society and earn wealth in due course.

Keep learning, keep growing.  Engage in righteous deeds always.

pada vigrahaH:
अजर-अमरवत् प्राज्ञः विद्याम् अर्थं च साधयेत् ।
ajara-amaravat prājñaḥ vidyām arthaṃ ca sādhayet ।

गृहीत इव केशेषु मृत्युना धर्मम् आचरेत् ॥
gṛhīta iva keśeṣu mṛtyunā dharmam ācaret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ajaraamaravat praaj~naH vidyaamarthaM cha saadhayet ।
gRuhIta iva kesheShu mRutyunaa dharmamaacharet ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

ajara-amaravat praaj~naH vidyaam arthaM cha saadhayet ।

gRuhIta iva kesheShu mRutyunaa dharmam aacharet ॥

November 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अफलानि दुरन्तानि समव्ययफलानि च ।
अशक्यानि च कार्याणि नारभेत विचक्षणः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
aphalāni durantāni samavyayaphalāni ca ।
aśakyāni ca kāryāṇi nārabheta vicakṣaṇaḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:
Skillful people do not begin (these 4 types of) tasks -  (those which) will be fruitless; (those which) end miserably; (those which) expend the same amount (of effort) as the result; (those which) are impossible.

Commentary:

Planning, planning, planning!  Prudent people think ahead of their tasks, deciding whether it is worth investing their effort or not. 

They do not invest time, effort, or energy in a task -

1. that is futile and will yield no result 
2. when they know it would end miserably
3. if the end result was not proportionately rewarding as the effort.  (The task should be more rewarding than the toil itself. )
4. when they know it will not yield an outcome at all!

A little extra time spent to think through the feasibility of any task at the beginning itself is certainly time well spent!

pada vigrahaH:
अफलानि दुरन्तानि सम-व्यय-फलानि च ।
aphalāni durantāni sama-vyaya-phalāni ca ।

अशक्यानि च कार्याणि न आरभेत  विचक्षणः ॥
aśakyāni ca kāryāṇi na ārabheta vicakṣaṇaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aphalaani durantaani samavyayaphalaani cha ।
ashakyaani cha kaaryaaNi naarabheta vichakShaNaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

aphalaani durantaani sama-vyaya-phalaani cha ।

ashakyaani cha kaaryaaNi na aarabheta vichakShaNaH ॥

November 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
एकेन शुष्कवृक्षेण दह्यमानेन वह्निना ।
दह्यते तद्वनं सर्वं कुपुत्रेण कुलं यथा ॥

Transliteration:
ekena śuṣkavṛkṣeṇa dahyamānena vahninā ।
dahyate tadvanaṃ sarvaṃ kuputreṇa kulaṃ yathā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just as one dry tree burning with fire is enough to burn a whole forest, similarly does a whole clan due to one ill-mannered child.

Commentary:

Even in a forest full of lush and green trees, one dead tree can turn into a cause for havoc. That tree can catch a flame and instantaneously turn into a blazing fire. Such a tree will not only burn itself but everything else around it as well. 

One ill-mannered child not only brings disgrace to himself but also to his friends and family. Again, it is the prime responsibility of the adults in the family to instill the right values and behavior in children from a very young age. 'As you sow, so shall you reap'.  Children will grow into the mold they were shaped in.  

Catch them young.  Teach them well. 

pada vigrahaH:

एकेन शुष्क वृक्षेण दह्यमानेन वह्निना ।
ekena śuṣka vṛkṣeṇa dahyamānena vahninā ।

दह्यते तत् वनं सर्वं कुपुत्रेण कुलं यथा ॥
dahyate tat vanaṃ sarvaṃ kuputreṇa kulaṃ yathā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ekena shuShkavRukSheNa dahyamaanena vahninaa ।
dahyate tadvanaM sarvaM kuputreNa kulaM yathaa ॥

ekena shuShka vRukSheNa dahyamaanena vahninaa ।

dahyate tat vanaM sarvaM kuputreNa kulaM yathaa ॥

November 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
एकेनापि सुवृक्षेण पुष्पितेन सुगन्धिना ।
वासितं तद्वनं सर्वं सुपुत्रेण कुलं यथा ॥

Transliteration:
ekenāpi suvṛkṣeṇa puṣpitena sugandhinā ।
vāsitaṃ tadvanaṃ sarvaṃ suputreṇa kulaṃ yathā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Just as) the whole forest becomes fragrant because of one nice tree with (aromatic) blooms, so does the entire family, due to one good son (progeny).

Commentary:

The good deeds performed by one person enhance the name of the whole tribe/community (those around him). Just as one flowering tree with fragrant blooms is sufficient to make the entire forest ambrosial, the same is true that one good person brings cheer to everyone around him.

Happiness is when you realize your children have turned into good people.  Children are the faces of the future. They represent a whole generation ahead of us. Sculpting them into virtuous adults with firm moral grounding is the most sacred responsibility that parents have. Such children not only bring joy to the people around them but make the world a better place to live in.

May each child become an individual with deep-set values!

pada vigrahaH:

एकेन अपि सुवृक्षेण पुष्पितेन सुगन्धिना ।
ekena api suvṛkṣeṇa puṣpitena sugandhinā ।

वासितं तत् वनं सर्वं सुपुत्रेण कुलं यथा ॥
vāsitaṃ tat vanaṃ sarvaṃ suputreṇa kulaṃ yathā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ekenaapi suvRukSheNa puShpitena sugandhinaa ।
vaasitaM tadvanaM sarvaM suputreNa kulaM yathaa ॥

ekena api suvRukSheNa puShpitena sugandhinaa ।

vaasitaM tat vanaM sarvaM suputreNa kulaM yathaa ॥