December 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वगृहे पूज्यते मूर्खः स्वग्रामे पूज्यते प्रभुः ।
स्वदेशे पूज्यते राजा विद्वान् सर्वत्र पूज्यते ॥


Transliteration:
svagṛhe pūjyate mūrkhaḥ svagrāme pūjyate prabhuḥ ।
svadeśe pūjyate rājā vidvān sarvatra pūjyate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An idiot is celebrated in his own home, a lord is respected in his own town, a king is worshipped in his own country, (whereas) a learned man is honored everywhere.

Commentary:

Even if a person is foolish, he is valued in his own home. His near and dear ones still adore him. The town leader is looked up to by the whole town. Whereas, the king commands respect from his entire nation. Although each of these people is valued in different boundaries, their name and fame are limited to a space they call their own.

But a learned and well-educated person has no such boundaries. He is respected and honored in every place he goes. There is no place where his glory is diminished. He is universally accepted and valued for his knowledge.

Expand your horizons! Knowledge is power.  Never stop learning. 

pada vigrahaH:

स्वगृहे पूज्यते मूर्खः स्वग्रामे पूज्यते प्रभुः ।
svagṛhe pūjyate mūrkhaḥ svagrāme pūjyate prabhuḥ ।

स्वदेशे पूज्यते राजा विद्वान् सर्वत्र पूज्यते ॥
svadeśe pūjyate rājā vidvān sarvatra pūjyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svagRuhe pUjyate mUrkhaH svagraame pUjyate prabhuH ।
svadeshe pUjyate raajaa vidvaan sarvatra pUjyate ॥

svagRuhe pUjyate mUrkhaH svagraame pUjyate prabhuH ।

svadeshe pUjyate raajaa vidvaan sarvatra pUjyate ॥

December 30th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
विद्या मित्रं प्रवासेषु भार्या मित्रं गृहेषु च ।
व्याधितस्यौषधं मित्रं धर्मो मित्रं मृतस्य च ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
vidyā mitraṃ pravāseṣu bhāryā mitraṃ gṛheṣu ca ।
vyādhitasyauṣadhaṃ mitraṃ dharmo mitraṃ mṛtasya ca ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge is a friend when on a journey, a wife is a friend at home, medicine is the friend of the sick, and virtue is the friend of the dead.

Commentary:

When traveling, knowledge is one thing that can be carried painlessly. Knowledge is the tool that can help one thrive in a foreign land.

At home, the wife is the best friend one can trust and rely upon. She is the cornerstone of the family and can withstand any kind of weathering the family has to face.

For a sick person, medicine is a friend. The medicine may taste bitter, but it is in the person's best interest to gulp it down because it is only going to make him feel better.

The virtuous deeds and actions performed during one's lifetime are his friends after passing on. No amount of wealth, family, or friends will accompany him beyond the graveyard. It is only his merits and demerits that will follow him and decide his path of onward travel.

Know your friends in each aspect of life because they are your greatest blessings.  

pada vigrahaH:

विद्या मित्रं प्रवासेषु भार्या मित्रं गृहेषु च ।
vidyā mitraṃ pravāseṣu bhāryā mitraṃ gṛheṣu ca ।

व्याधितस्य औषधं मित्रं धर्मः मित्रं मृतस्य च ॥
vyādhitasya auṣadhaṃ mitraṃ dharmaḥ mitraṃ mṛtasya ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vidyaa mitraM pravaaseShu bhaaryaa mitraM gRuheShu cha ।
vyaadhitasyauShadhaM mitraM dharmo mitraM mRutasya cha ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

vidyaa mitraM pravaaseShu bhaaryaa mitraM gRuheShu cha ।

vyaadhitasya auShadhaM mitraM dharmaH mitraM mRutasya cha ॥

December 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पिपीलिकार्जितं धान्यं मक्षिकासञ्चितं मधु ।
लुब्धेन सञ्चितं द्रव्यं समूलं हि विनश्यति ॥
-सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
pipīlikārjitaṃ dhānyaṃ makṣikāsañcitaṃ madhu ।
lubdhena sañcitaṃ dravyaṃ samūlaṃ hi vinaśyati ॥
-subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:
Grain collected by an ant, honey collected by the bees, and wealth accumulated by avarice—will all be destroyed along with their source.

Commentary:

Ants gather grains continuously; bees tirelessly collect honey from flowers. The greedy hoard money and wealth incessantly.

If we really think about it, what happens in nature to the ants and the bees is exactly what happens to stingy people. As a result of their hard work and perseverance, the ants are able to build their ant hill.  They collect enough food to feed the whole colony and then some! But one fine day, a snake enters the hole and destroys everything, along with the colony. Similarly, honeybees work constantly to build their hive and make sweet honey. However, one day a human being or animal (i.e., a bear) will bring down the whole hive along with all the bees just to acquire the honey. Neither the ants nor the bees enjoy their own hard work! 

The same kind of destruction is attained by the wealth of a greedy, stingy, avaricious individual (albeit a redundancy of words). He spends his entire life accumulating wealth. He doesn't revel in it; neither using it for his own enjoyment or the benefit of others. Such a person's wealth will be destroyed one fine day. It will be lost or stolen. Even if he succeeds in protecting his possessions, Death, the leveler, will even it all out. When one dies, there is no guarantee that his wealth will be used for good causes, and he certainly can't carry it with him to the netherworld.

In the end, "it's not what was gathered, but what was scattered mindlessly, that illustrates the kind of life that was lived!"  

pada vigrahaH:
पिपीलिका-अर्जितं धान्यं मक्षिका-सञ्चितं मधु ।
pipīlikā-arjitaṃ dhānyaṃ makṣikā-sañcitaṃ madhu ।

लुब्धेन सञ्चितं द्रव्यं समूलं हि विनश्यति ॥
lubdhena sañcitaṃ dravyaṃ samūlaṃ hi vinaśyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pipIlikaarjitaM dhaanyaM makShikaasa~nchitaM madhu ।
lubdhena sa~nchitaM dravyaM samUlaM hi vinashyati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

pipIlikaa-arjitaM dhaanyaM makShikaa-sa~nchitaM madhu ।

lubdhena sa~nchitaM dravyaM samUlaM hi vinashyati ॥

December 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
ज्येष्ठत्वं जन्मना नैव गुणैर्ज्येष्ठत्वमुच्यते ।
गुणाद्गुरुत्वमायाति दुग्धं दधि घृतं क्रमात् ॥

Transliteration:
jyeṣṭhatvaṃ janmanā naiva guṇairjyeṣṭhatvamucyate ।
guṇādgurutvamāyāti dugdhaṃ dadhi ghṛtaṃ kramāt ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

It is said that seniority doesn't come by birth, it comes through efficacy. Respectability comes from merit, (just as) milk, yogurt, (and) ghee - in this order.

Commentary:

Milk comes first. From milk comes yogurt. Yogurt is churned to get butter, and later the butter is melted perfectly to get ghee. Ghee is the 'cream of the crowd', literally and figuratively, too. Milk or yogurt can't claim that spot, just because they came first and aided in making the ghee. Milk can spoil in one day; yogurt in a couple of days; butter in a week.  But ghee derived from butter can last forever!  Ghee which comes last has better quality in terms of longevity.  Its order of origination is immaterial.

Similarly, the order of birth alone will have no significance when it comes to nature or qualities in people. Each individual develops his or her own qualities along the way and attains greatness or shallowness on their own accord. Just because one is born ahead of others doesn't mean he can demand respect forever. Respect can be both earned or lost.  One can only gain so much respect for his age. After that, he has to command his respect due to his deeds or misdeeds, attitudes, and attributes.  

Respect has to be commanded not demanded!

pada vigrahaH:

ज्येष्ठत्वं जन्मना न एव गुणैः ज्येष्ठत्वम् उच्यते ।
jyeṣṭhatvaṃ janmanā na eva guṇaiḥ jyeṣṭhatvam ucyate ।

गुणात् गुरुत्वम् आयाति दुग्धं दधि घृतं क्रमात् ॥
guṇāt gurutvam āyāti dugdhaṃ dadhi ghṛtaṃ kramāt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
jyeShThatvaM janmanaa naiva guNairjyeShThatvamuchyate ।
guNaadgurutvamaayaati dugdhaM dadhi ghRutaM kramaat ॥

jyeShThatvaM janmanaa na eva guNaiH jyeShThatvam uchyate ।

guNaat gurutvam aayaati dugdhaM dadhi ghRutaM kramaat ॥

December 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कर्ता कारयिता चैव प्रेरकश्चानुमोदकः ।
सुकृते दुष्कृते चैव चत्वारः समभागिनः ॥

Transliteration:
kartā kārayitā caiva prerakaścānumodakaḥ ।
sukṛte duṣkṛte caiva catvāraḥ samabhāginaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Be it a misdeed or a meritorious one, the following four have an equal share (of the result): the doer; the promoter; the initiator (one who inspires); and the supporter.

Commentary:

The fruit of either a meritorious deed or a misdeed is shouldered by these four categories of people: 

• the ones who carry out the act; 
• the ones who organize the enterprise; 
• the ones who initiate the idea; 
• and the ones who approve of the feat. 

 They all share the fruit of the deed.

One cannot say, "I only initiated the deed, but didn't actually do it" and sulk away from the responsibilities!  The doer is only an instrument.  Any kind of repercussion must be shouldered by all involved.

One has to give each action serious thought before partaking in any aspect of it, because, he will have to bear the brunt or the merit of that deed.

Thinking before acting is wisdom. But acting before thinking will lead to regret.  So, look before you leap, think before you speak.

pada vigrahaH:
कर्ता कारयिता च एव प्रेरकः च अनुमोदकः ।
kartā kārayitā ca eva prerakaḥ ca anumodakaḥ ।

सुकृते दुष्कृते च एव चत्वारः सम-भागिनः ॥
sukṛte duṣkṛte ca eva catvāraḥ sama-bhāginaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kartaa kaarayitaa chaiva prerakashchaanumodakaH ।
sukRute duShkRute chaiva chatvaaraH samabhaaginaH ॥

kartaa kaarayitaa cha eva prerakaH cha anumodakaH ।

sukRute duShkRute cha eva chatvaaraH sama-bhaaginaH ॥

December 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गिरिर्महान् गिरेरब्धिः महानब्धेर्नभो महत् ।
नभसोऽपि महद्ब्रह्मा ततोप्याशा गरीयसी ॥
- कुवलयानन्द


Transliteration:
girirmahān girerabdhiḥ mahānabdhernabho mahat ।
nabhaso'pi mahadbrahmā tatopyāśā garīyasī ॥
- kuvalayānanda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mountain is huge; an ocean is larger than the mountain, the sky is larger than the ocean, Brahma is larger than the sky, and desire is even bigger than Him (Brahma).

Commentary:

It is a known fact that mountains are huge. The oceans are larger because they can easily hide many mountains in them. The sky is even larger, as it spans many such oceans and the whole earth. The 'brahma tatva' (divine factor) that created all of these is certainly greater—for being able to make all of these.

But then, there is one little thing that doesn't even have a form which is born in one's mind.  It is even greater than Brahma himself! It is 'DESIRE'. It is not easy to quench the thirst of desire. Like the moles in the game of Whack-a-mole, desires keep popping up from nowhere. We whack a mole and another one pops up from a different hole.  Similarly,  if one wish is satisfied, another pops up. If that is satiated then a different one arises. This is a never-ending cycle. Brahma himself can get tired, quenching one's desires.  

The only remedy for desire arises from the same place where the desire itself arises from - one's own mind.  The mind itself has to understand the facade of desires.  They are baseless and have no end either. So, Dropping desires like a hot potato is the best way.  When the mindlessness of desires is understood, the mind finds a surefire cure for its endless problems.  It will finally be at peace. 

Do not let desires rule (and ruin) your life!  Freedom from desire leads to inner peace. 

pada vigrahaH:

गिरिः महान् गिरेः अब्धिः महान् अब्धेः नभः महत् ।
giriḥ mahān gireḥ abdhiḥ mahān abdheḥ nabhaḥ mahat ।

नभसः अपि महत् ब्रह्मा ततः अपि आशा गरीयसी ॥
nabhasaḥ api mahat brahmā tataḥ api āśā garīyasī ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
girirmahaan girerabdhiH mahaanabdhernabho mahat ।
nabhaso.pi mahadbrahmaa tatopyaashaa garIyasI ॥
- kuvalayaananda

giriH mahaan gireH abdhiH mahaan abdheH nabhaH mahat ।

nabhasaH api mahat brahmaa tataH api aashaa garIyasI ॥

December 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अश्वस्य भूषणं वेगं मत्तं स्याद्गजभूषणम् ।
चातुर्यं भूषणं नार्या उद्योगं नरभूषणम् ॥

Transliteration:
aśvasya bhūṣaṇaṃ vegaṃ mattaṃ syādgajabhūṣaṇam ।
cāturyaṃ bhūṣaṇaṃ nāryā udyogaṃ narabhūṣaṇam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Speed is the adornment of a horse, jaggedness suits well for an elephant, prudence is an adornment for a woman, (and) profession is an adornment for a man.

Commentary:

A horse is known for its running skills. No matter how fancy a horse's saddle and tack are, it is not very appealing if the horse doesn't have speed. Speed is hence the adornment for a horse. For an elephant, his ruttish state suits him well. That is when he accomplishes more tasks.

Similarly, having prudence and skillfulness is essential for a woman just like a profession is for a man. These particular adornments for men and women are given for a reason, gender bias not being one of them. There are certain faculties bestowed on each gender that are nature-given.   

In today's world where men and women work as equals, this might initially seem outdated. Although women work outside the home it is still not easy to accept an unemployed man.  It is not in his nature to begin with. Similarly, if a family has to prosper, the woman of the house has to be judicious about how the resources of the house are being put to use.  Thus, she must be a girl with a mind, a woman with attitude, and a lady with class. A confident woman, secure in her own power, can never be threatened by the presence of another confident woman.

If one ponders more deeply, one will see that no matter what century or generation is being looked at, certain chores are best executed as nature intended.  Although one might enter into the faculty of the other, it is better to master in their own arena first, and then step into the shoes of another. In that case, wouldn't the basic embellishments still remain the same?!

pada vigrahaH:

अश्वस्य भूषणं वेगं मत्तं स्यात् गज-भूषणम् ।
aśvasya bhūṣaṇaṃ vegaṃ mattaṃ syāt gaja-bhūṣaṇam ।

चातुर्यं भूषणं नार्या उद्योगं नर-भूषणम् ॥
cāturyaṃ bhūṣaṇaṃ nāryā udyogaṃ nara-bhūṣaṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ashvasya bhUShaNaM vegaM mattaM syaadgajabhUShaNam ।
chaaturyaM bhUShaNaM naaryaa udyogaM narabhUShaNam ॥

ashvasya bhUShaNaM vegaM mattaM syaat gaja-bhUShaNam ।

chaaturyaM bhUShaNaM naaryaa udyogaM nara-bhUShaNam ॥

December 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
भुक्त्वा तृणानि शुष्कानि पीत्वा तोयं जलाशयात् ।
दुग्धं ददति लोकेभ्यः गावो लोकस्य मातरः ॥

Transliteration:
bhuktvā tṛṇāni śuṣkāni pītvā toyaṃ jalāśayāt ।
dugdhaṃ dadati lokebhyaḥ gāvo lokasya mātaraḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

After eating dry grass and drinking water from the stream, cows give milk to people. (They truly) are (like) mothers to the world.

Commentary:

Cows do not look forward to choosing from fancy lunch or dinner menus. They'll eat whatever dry grass and leaves come their way and drink water from any available source of water - whether it is a lake, pool, pond, or stream. They do not expect anything from anyone. Yet at the same time, they don't live life indifferently. They provide an abundance of milk, that yields other products like yogurt, butter, ghee, etc.

Although they do not receive too much from the world, they do more than their fair share for society. They are like a mother who works tirelessly for her child without expecting anything in return. A mother always has the child's best interest at heart and continues to work towards putting forth her best possible efforts. Cows provide not just to one person, but to the entire world. Hence, they are considered as mothers of the world.

Cows are the gentlest of creatures that ever breathed. They are so divine that no wonder they are worshipped as Gods.  

pada vigrahaH:
भुक्त्वा तृणानि शुष्कानि पीत्वा तोयं जलाशयात् ।
bhuktvā tṛṇāni śuṣkāni pītvā toyaṃ jalāśayāt ।

दुग्धं ददति लोकेभ्यः गावो लोकस्य मातरः ॥
dugdhaṃ dadati lokebhyaḥ gāvo lokasya mātaraḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
bhuktvaa tRuNaani shuShkaani pItvaa toyaM jalaashayaat ।
dugdhaM dadati lokebhyaH gaavo lokasya maataraH ॥

bhuktvaa tRuNaani shuShkaani pItvaa toyaM jalaashayaat ।

dugdhaM dadati lokebhyaH gaavo lokasya maataraH ॥

December 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वने रणे शत्रुजलाग्निमध्ये
महार्णवे पर्वतमस्तके वा ।
सुप्‍तं प्रमत्तं विषमस्थितं वा
रक्षन्ति पुण्यानि पुराकृतानि ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
vane raṇe śatrujalāgnimadhye
mahārṇave parvatamastake vā ।
sup‍taṃ pramattaṃ viṣamasthitaṃ vā
rakṣanti puṇyāni purākṛtāni ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In a forest, in a battle, amongst enemies, amidst water or fire, in a vast ocean or on the tip of a mountain, while asleep, awake, or in danger—virtuous deeds from (our) past are our protectors.

Commentary:

You will reap what you sow!

If one has performed virtuous deeds in the past, the fruits of those deeds will come to his rescue in times of trouble. Karma is like a bank. If we have a positive balance, we can withdraw cash in times of need. But if it is marked in red with a negative balance, there is no chance of getting any returns from that account. The law of Karma is also called the law of cause and effect—action and reaction. 

When a person with good Karma faces calamity, be it natural or man-made, he won't have to worry about coming out of the situation. His prior deeds of virtue will bring him out unscathed at the end of the tunnel.

Keep the faith and do good to others! 

pada vigrahaH:
वने रणे शत्रु-जल-अग्नि-मध्ये
vane raṇe śatru-jala-agni-madhye

महार्णवे पर्वत-मस्तके वा ।
mahārṇave parvata-mastake vā ।

सुप्‍तं प्रमत्तं विषम-स्थितं वा
sup‍taṃ pramattaṃ viṣama-sthitaṃ vā

रक्षन्ति पुण्यानि पुरा कृतानि ॥
rakṣanti puṇyāni purā kṛtāni ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vane raNe shatrujalaagnimadhye
mahaarNave parvatamastake vaa ।
suptaM pramattaM viShamasthitaM vaa
rakShanti puNyaani puraakRutaani ॥
- neetishataka

vane raNe shatru-jala-agni-madhye

mahaarNave parvata-mastake vaa ।

suptaM pramattaM viShama-sthitaM vaa

rakShanti puNyaani puraa kRutaani ॥

December 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अभिवादनशीलस्य नित्यं वृद्धोपसेविनः ।
चत्वारि तस्य वर्धन्ते आयुर्विद्यायशोबलम् ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व

Transliteration:
abhivādanaśīlasya nityaṃ vṛddhopasevinaḥ ।
catvāri tasya vardhante āyurvidyāyaśobalam ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

One who always prostrates, and serves the elderly prospers in 4 (arenas): longevity, knowledge, fame, and vigor.

Commentary:

Here vṛddha (elderly) doesn't mean only people who are ripe with age (vayo vṛddha). Apart from age, elderliness can be seen in a few other aspects too - jñāna vṛddha (ripe with spiritual knowledge), vidyā vṛddha (ripe with knowledge), tapo vṛddha (ripe with austerity, penance), etc.

Our elders have been valuable resources in transcending our rich heritage from eons ago. Everything cannot be learnt at school or from books. Life essential skills have been passed down to us through generational practices, from our elders. Therefore, respecting and serving our elders to the best possible extent becomes our foremost duty.

He who eagerly serves such people with the utmost respect and devotion has nothing to lose, but a lot to gain! He will be blessed with prosperity in four kinds of wealth that can't be lost or stolen: a long healthy life; abundance of knowledge; honor and glory; and last but not least, strength.

Those who respect the elderly pave their own road toward success.

pada vigrahaH:
अभिवादन-शीलस्य नित्यं वृद्ध-उपसेविनः ।
abhivādana-śīlasya nityaṃ vṛddha-upasevinaḥ ।

चत्वारि तस्य वर्धन्ते आयुः विद्या यशः बलम् ॥
catvāri tasya vardhante āyuḥ vidyā yaśaḥ balam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
abhivaadanashIlasya nityaM vRuddhopasevinaH ।
chatvaari tasya vardhante aayurvidyaayashobalam ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

abhivaadana-shIlasya nityaM vRuddha-upasevinaH ।

chatvaari tasya vardhante aayuH vidyaa yashaH balam ॥

December 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
भार्गवेण हता माता एकजायाश्च पाण्डवाः ।
परदाररतः कृष्णो न देवचरितं चरेत् ॥

Transliteration:
bhārgaveṇa hatā mātā ekajāyāśca pāṇḍavāḥ ।
paradārarataḥ kṛṣṇo na devacaritaṃ caret ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Paraśurāma killed his mother; (five) Pāṇḍava-s had one wife; and Kṛṣṇa indulged with others' wives.  Do not follow in the footsteps of the noble.

Commentary:

On first thought, this shloka seems like a misfit of words. However, one needs to delve deeper into the implicit meaning of the shloka.

• Bhārgava was another name for Paraśurāma. He cut off his own mother's head with his paraśu (axe) as per his father's orders. His only reason for that was because his father told him to (There is a back story for this which is nonessential in the context).  The father was pleased with his son's unwavering faith in his words and offered him a boon. As a boon, Paraśurāma asked his father to revive his mother, which he did. One needs to know the whole episode before simply saying that he killed his mother! (In today's world, there are no children who are so obedient, nor are there fathers who can bring people back to life.) 
• The 5 Pāṇḍava-s married one Draupadī, in order to keep their mother's word. That wasn't the only reason.  It was also the Lord's way of fulfilling a boon that Draupadī herself had asked for. She had wanted a husband with 5 of the best qualities—honest, strong, skilled in warfare, handsome, and kind. The Lord responded to her request by giving her 5 husbands—since it was simply impossible, even for the Lord, to create one man with all 5 qualities.
• Lord Kṛṣṇa wed 16,000 gopikās! He was liberating them from an asura (demon) named Narakāsura. However, we humans can't liberate our own sorrows, let alone liberate others from theirs. So, we can't blindly take notes that Kṛṣṇa married so many gopis simply because he wanted to.

The moral is: We cannot comprehend all the actions of the noble, and therefore, we should not blindly follow in their footsteps.  Their actions should be seriously contemplated before mimicking them.

Know how, why, and which actions of the noble can be emulated. Follow the truth, but follow no one blindly. 

pada vigrahaH:

भार्गवेण हता माता एक-जायाः च पाण्डवाः ।
bhārgaveṇa hatā mātā eka-jāyāḥ ca pāṇḍavāḥ ।

पर-दार-रतः कृष्णः न देव-चरितं चरित ॥
para-dāra-rataḥ kṛṣṇaḥ na deva-caritaṃ carita ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
bhaargaveNa hataa maataa ekajaayaashcha paaNDavaaH ।
paradaararataH kRuShNo na devacharitaM charet ॥

bhaargaveNa hataa maataa eka-jaayaaH cha paaNDavaaH ।

para-daara-rataH kRuShNaH na deva-charitaM charet ॥

December 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पृथिव्यां त्रीणि रत्नानि जलमन्नं सुभाषितम् ।
मूर्खैः पाषाणखण्डेषु रत्नसंज्ञा विधीयते ॥


Transliteration:
pṛthivyāṃ trīṇi ratnāni jalamannaṃ subhāṣitam ।
mūrkhaiḥ pāṣāṇakhaṇḍeṣu ratnasaṃjñā vidhīyate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

On this Earth, three treasures stand supreme—water, food, and subhāṣitas. Only the foolish mistake stones for gems! 

Commentary:

Water is the essence of life, an elixir without which existence ceases. It quenches thirst, nurtures the land, and sustains every living being. Food, in turn, is the sustenance of the body, providing the strength and energy needed to endure the challenges of the world. Together, water and food sustain life’s most basic needs.

But what of subhāṣitas—those pearls of wisdom, the distilled essence of human thought, values, and experience? These are not sustenance for the body but nourishment for the soul and the mind. Through their moral insights, subhāṣitas serve as guides, offering clarity in times of doubt and solace in moments of turmoil. They inspire us to rise above our basic instincts and live with purpose, ethics, and harmony.

In the pursuit of wealth and transient pleasures, many mistake the glitter of stones for the brilliance of true gems. However, water, food, and subhāṣitas are the treasures that truly enrich life. They sustain not only existence but also humanity.

Recognize their value. Seek them with diligence, cherish them with gratitude, and share them with wisdom. Together, with these three: food, water, and subhāṣitas, you will find the true wealth of life—a foundation upon which to build a meaningful existence.

pada vigrahaH:

पृथिव्यां त्रीणि रत्नानि जलम् अन्नं सुभाषितम् ।
pṛthivyāṃ trīṇi ratnāni jalam annaṃ subhāṣitam ।

मूर्खैः पाषाण-खण्डेषु रत्न-संज्ञा विधीयते ॥
mūrkhaiḥ pāṣāṇa-khaṇḍeṣu ratna-saṃjñā vidhīyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pRuthivyaaM trINi ratnaani jalamannaM subhaaShitam ।
mUrkhaiH paaShaaNakhaNDeShu ratnasaMj~naa vidhIyate ॥

pRuthivyaaM trINi ratnaani jalam annaM subhaaShitam ।

mUrkhaiH paaShaaNa-khaNDeShu ratna-saMj~naa vidhIyate ॥

December 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वरमेको गुणी पुत्रः न च मुर्खश्शतान्यपि ।
एकश्चन्द्रस्तमो हन्ति न च तारा गणोऽपि च ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
varameko guṇī putraḥ na ca murkhaśśatānyapi ।
ekaścandrastamo hanti na ca tārā gaṇo'pi ca ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Even) one progeny with efficacy is a blessing, not a hundred that are foolish. One moon drives out darkness, not a whole constellation of stars.

Commentary:

More isn't always better! Billions and billions of stars can be seen in the night sky. Despite that, on a moonless night, the stars don't do much to brighten the skies. However, one moon, although alone, can light up the night.

This metaphor is very appropriately used to depict the value of values! Even if one is the lone offspring, if he has good values and efficacy, he will always bring more joy to his parents than a hundred dull and foolish children.

Values carry the most value! They are more expensive than price. 
pada vigrahaH: वरम् एकः गुणी पुत्रः न च मुर्खः शतानि अपि ।
varam ekaḥ guṇī putraḥ na ca murkhaḥ śatāni api ।

एकः चन्द्रः तमः हन्ति न च तारा-गणः अपि च ॥
ekaḥ candraḥ tamaḥ hanti na ca tārā-gaṇaḥ api ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
varameko guNI putraH na cha murkhashshataanyapi ।
ekashchandrastamo hanti na cha taaraa gaNo.pi cha ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

varam ekaH guNI putraH na cha murkhaH shataani api ।

ekaH chandraH tamaH hanti na cha taaraa-gaNaH api cha  ॥

December 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सम्पूर्णकुम्भो न करोति शब्दम्
अर्धोघटो घोषमुपैति नूनम्  ।
विद्वान्कुलीनो न करोति गर्वं
मूढास्तु जल्पन्ति गुणैर्विहीनाः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
sampūrṇakumbho na karoti śabdam
ardhoghaṭo ghoṣamupaiti nūnam ।
vidvānkulīno na karoti garvaṃ
mūḍhāstu jalpanti guṇairvihīnāḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A completely filled pot will not make any noise.  (Whereas), a half-filled pot will make noise.  The learned/noble do not pride themselves (on their accomplishments), but fools prattle as if devoid of efficacy.

Commentary:

The metaphor of a pot is given very efficiently to depict the difference between the learned and the ignorant. A pot that is filled to the brim does not swish water around and make noise. Whereas if a pot is half full, it has enough room to swish around even the smallest amount of water since it has so much empty space!  This creates a lot of noise.

Similarly, the noble do not make noise by bragging about their prowess, because they are filled to the brim with knowledge.  Whereas, fools, possessing only a little bit of knowledge, make great noise just to show off their insignificant skills.

Isn't humility the adornment of the noble?! Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking about yourself less!  The noble have mastered this skill and remain humble always.  

pada vigrahaH:

सम्पूर्ण-कुम्भः न करोति शब्दम्
sampūrṇa-kumbhaḥ na karoti śabdam

अर्धः घटः घोषम् उपैति नूनम् ।
ardhaḥ ghaṭaḥ ghoṣam upaiti nūnam ।

विद्वान् कुलीनः न करोति गर्वं
vidvān kulīnaḥ na karoti garvaṃ

मूढाः तु जल्पन्ति गुणैः विहीनाः ॥
mūḍhāḥ tu jalpanti guṇaiḥ vihīnāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sampUrNakumbho na karoti shabdam
ardhoghaTo ghoShamupaiti nUnam ।
vidvaankulIno na karoti garvaM
mUDhaastu jalpanti guNairvihInaaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

sampUrNa-kumbhaH na karoti shabdam

ardhaH ghaTaH ghoSham upaiti nUnam ।

vidvaan kulInaH na karoti garvaM

mUDhaaH tu jalpanti guNaiH vihInaaH ॥

December 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
लालयेत् पञ्चवर्षाणि दशवर्षाणि ताडयेत् ।
प्राप्‍ते तु षोडशे वर्षे पुत्रं मित्रवदाचरेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
lālayet pañcavarṣāṇi daśavarṣāṇi tāḍayet ।
prāp‍te tu ṣoḍaśe varṣe putraṃ mitravadācaret ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Indulge a child for the first 5 years, (and) discipline him for the next 10.  Upon attaining the age of 16, treat him like a friend.

Commentary:

Pampering isn't the only way to shower children with affection.

When children are young, under the age of five, they are very innocent and divine. Indulging them and yielding to their desires and whims are acceptable at that age.

However, as they start growing up, they begin to see the world around them and start exploring their limits. Yielding to all their desires, right or wrong, will only bring them harm. If they do not have a parent or adult who guides and helps them to make the right choices, chances are, they will make the wrong ones!  That's human tendency. 

Children might find it uncalled for, but will soon realize the reasons behind the discipline as they mature into responsible adults. Discipline is essential, especially in setting moral grounds - telling lies, being hurtful to others, etc. should be nipped in the bud. When the right morals are instilled in a child at a young age, the parents can be assured that they have carried out their duties effectively.

Once children reach sixteen years of age, they are almost adults. That is the right time to start treating them as friends while having faith that all the indulgences and disciplining performed in the past years have taken part in sculpting a loving, caring, and responsible adult. 

Children brought up like this turn out to be wonderful contributions to society!

pada vigrahaH:

लालयेत् पञ्च वर्षाणि दश वर्षाणि ताडयेत् ।
lālayet pañca varṣāṇi daśa varṣāṇi tāḍayet ।

प्राप्‍ते तु षोडशे वर्षे पुत्रं मित्रवत् आचरेत् ॥
prāp‍te tu ṣoḍaśe varṣe putraṃ mitravat ācaret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
laalayet pa~nchavarShaaNi dashavarShaaNi taaDayet ।
praapte tu ShoDashe varShe putraM mitravadaacharet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

laalayet pa~ncha varShaaNi dasha varShaaNi taaDayet ।

praapte tu ShoDashe varShe putraM mitravat aacharet ॥

December 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्कुले योजयेत् कन्यां पुत्रं विद्यासु योजयेत् ।
व्यसने योजयेच्छत्रुम् इष्टं धर्मे नियोजयेत् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
satkule yojayet kanyāṃ putraṃ vidyāsu yojayet ।
vyasane yojayecchatrum iṣṭaṃ dharme niyojayet ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Alliance of a daughter (must be) from a noble lineage; children (must be) connected to vidyā (knowledge); associate with an enemy during adversity; match loved ones with dharma (righteousness).

Commentary:

Associations in life make all the difference!

When parents look for a groom for their daughter, they look for a family with a good lineage. Even if they lack possessions, the parents believe their daughter will live happily among people with good ethical values.

All children should be well educated. By chance, if the parents fall short in accumulating wealth and properties for their children, their lives will still be set, if they are endowed with vidyā. Nothing is more important than giving a good value-based education to our children.

In times of need, even an enemy can aid one's rescue. So, never say "never". Reach out to an enemy too, if he could be of help during a crisis.  Do not let ego and past quarrels come in the way of a higher good. 

Loved ones should always be kept on the path of virtue. Proper guidance to live their lives on the path of dharma is the best gift one can give to their near and dear ones!

Every decision made has a consequence to it.  Make good choices today to avoid regrets of tomorrow. 

pada vigrahaH:

सत्कुले योजयेत् कन्यां पुत्रं विद्यासु योजयेत् ।
satkule yojayet kanyāṃ putraṃ vidyāsu yojayet ।

व्यसने योजयेत् शत्रुम् इष्टं धर्मे नियोजयेत् ॥
vyasane yojayet śatrum iṣṭaṃ dharmeṇa yojayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satkule yojayet kanyaaM putraM vidyaasu yojayet ।
vyasane yojayechChatrum iShTaM dharme niyojayet ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

satkule yojayet kanyaaM putraM vidyaasu yojayet ।

vyasane yojayet shatrum iShTaM dharme niyojayet ॥

December 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वित्तं बन्धुर्वयः कर्म विद्या भवति पञ्चमी ।
एतानि मान्यस्थानानि गरीयो यद्यदुत्तरम् ॥
- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:
vittaṃ bandhurvayaḥ karma vidyā bhavati pañcamī ।
etāni mānyasthānāni garīyo yadyaduttaram ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These are the 5 domains of recognition in order of their progression—Money, relatives, age, work,  and good education.

Commentary:

1. The way of the world is to value money, whether it is right or wrong. In turn, the person who possesses the money is valued.  Therefore, the wealthy are respected.

2. Having good kin brings even more respect—even if they don't have much money.

3. Whether one has the money or not, whether one has respectable kin or not, a person is given respect for his age.  Elders are always respected, no matter what.

4. If one's actions are respectable, then neither his financial status, his kin nor his age will come into the picture. He will be respected for his work or actions.

5. However, the most respected value of all values is—good education. A well-educated person is highly respected and his other possessions become obscure. His wealth, relatives, age, and work all become obsolete and he is esteemed for his knowledge and education alone.

Hence, vidyā (knowledge) is the one true adornment that upholds everything else!  It is one prized possession that can change the world and make it a better place. 

pada vigrahaH:
वित्तं बन्धुः वयः कर्म विद्या भवति पञ्चमी ।
vittaṃ bandhuḥ vayaḥ karma vidyā bhavati pañcamī ।

एतानि मान्य-स्थानानि गरीयः यत् यत् उत्तरम् ॥
etāni mānya-sthānāni garīyaḥ yat yat uttaram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vittaM bandhurvayaH karma vidyaa bhavati pa~nchamI ।
etaani maanyasthaanaani garIyo yadyaduttaram ॥
- manusmRuti

vittaM bandhuH vayaH karma vidyaa bhavati pa~nchamI ।

etaani maanya-sthaanaani garIyaH yat yat uttaram ॥

December 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अलसस्य कुतो विद्या अविद्यस्य कुतो धनम् ।
अधनस्य कुतो मित्रम् अमित्रस्य कुतः सुखम् ॥

Transliteration:
alasasya kuto vidyā avidyasya kuto dhanam ।
adhanasya kuto mitram amitrasya kutaḥ sukham ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Where is vidyā for the lazy? Where is wealth for the unlearned? Where are friends for the un-wealthy? Where is the pleasure for the friendless?

Commentary:

Industriousness is the cornerstone of nearly every aspect of life. One should have the zeal and enthusiasm to work and learn each and every day. Only when one has the thirst to learn more can he gain more vidyā (knowledge). Vidyā could bring in more wealth. Wealth, in turn, attracts friends. (Friends made through wealth is not necessarily a nice thing. However, that is the way of the world. Noble-minded people befriend anyone irrespective of financial status.) Having friends is a pleasant feeling (man is a social being). He enjoys being around people. Delight comes automatically with enjoyment.

Therefore, to be cheerful, one needs to be industrious and not be lazy. Step by step, alertness and industriousness will lead to delight.

pada vigrahaH:
अलसस्य कुतः विद्या अविद्यस्य कुतः धनम् ।
alasasya kutaḥ vidyā avidyasya kutaḥ dhanam ।

अधनस्य कुतः मित्रम् अमित्रस्य कुतः सुखम् ॥
adhanasya kutaḥ mitram amitrasya kutaḥ sukham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
alasasya kuto vidyaa avidyasya kuto dhanam ।
adhanasya kuto mitram amitrasya kutaH sukham ॥

alasasya kutaH vidyaa avidyasya kutaH dhanam ।

adhanasya kutaH mitram amitrasya kutaH sukham ॥

December 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आशायाः ये दासाः ते दासास्सर्वलोकस्य ।
आशा येषां दासी तेषां दासायते लोकः ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका


Transliteration:
āśāyāḥ ye dāsāḥ te dāsāssarvalokasya ।
āśā yeṣāṃ dāsī teṣāṃ dāsāyate lokaḥ ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Those who are enslaved to desire, are enslaved to the entire world; (but) for those under whom desire is enslaved, to them the whole world is enslaved.

Commentary:

'Desire' has a strange power. Once it gets its hold on a person, he will act as if he's possessed by it! His sole purpose in life becomes fulfilling that desire. In due course, he will throw his true goals of life, as well as his values, morals, and self-esteem to the wind. A person with no self-esteem or morals will stoop to any level, only to achieve his desires. He would be willing to be a slave to anyone or anything just so his desires are met!  Hence, he is considered a slave to the whole world.

It is difficult to control desire but keeping it under check is a mark of maturity.  Life is merry to a person with the willpower to overcome his 'desires'. He will have higher and nobler goals in mind and will strive to achieve them. Naturally, he earns the respect of those around him. He can grow to heights where the entire world is ready to work with him, look up to him, and be willing to serve him!  

Brutal is the power of desire! But, once that grip is overcome, then there is no stopping the growth and magnanimity of that person.

pada vigrahaH:

आशायाः ये दासाः ते दासाः सर्व लोकस्य ।
āśāyāḥ ye dāsāḥ te dāsāḥ sarva lokasya ।

आशा येषां दासी तेषां दासायते लोकः ॥
āśā yeṣāṃ dāsī teṣāṃ dāsāyate lokaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aashaayaaH ye daasaaH te daasaassarvalokasya ।
aashaa yeShaaM daasI teShaaM daasaayate lokaH ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

aashaayaaH ye daasaaH te daasaaH sarva lokasya ।

aashaa yeShaaM daasI teShaaM daasaayate lokaH ॥

December 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वित्ते त्यागः, क्षमा शक्तौ दुःखे दैन्यविहीनता ।
निर्दम्भता सदाचारे स्वभावोऽयं महात्मनाम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
vitte tyāgaḥ, kṣamā śaktau duḥkhe dainyavihīnatā ।
nirdambhatā sadācāre svabhāvo'yaṃ mahātmanām ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:
The nature of the noble is—liberality when wealthy, forgiveness despite strength, non-affliction though in misery, (and) pridelessness in comportment.

Commentary:

The nobility of the noble comes from their nature!

1. When they have wealth, they share it with their fellow beings.

2. Although capable of confrontation (physical or verbal), they forgive the adversary.

3. When they are in grief and suffering from misery themselves, they do not plead. They still keep their composure and go through the hardships with a smile on their face.

4. Their conduct and mannerisms are exquisite. But they do not pride themselves on their mannerisms or noble nature.

The character of a person is defined by the actions they undertake.  These values come as second nature to the honorable. They do not work towards or pretend to have these attributes. It flows out naturally from them and that is what makes them noble.

pada vigrahaH:
वित्ते त्यागः, क्षमा शक्तौ दुःखे दैन्यविहीनता ।
vitte tyāgaḥ, kṣamā śaktau duḥkhe dainyavihīnatā ।

निर्दम्भता सदाचारे स्वभावः अयं महात्मनाम् ॥
nirdambhatā sadācāre svabhāvaḥ ayaṃ mahātmanām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vitte tyaagaH, kShamaa shaktau duHkhe dainyavihInataa ।
nirdambhataa sadaachaare svabhaavo.yaM mahaatmanaam ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

vitte tyaagaH, kShamaa shaktau duHkhe dainyavihInataa ।

nirdambhataa sadaachaare svabhaavaH ayaM mahaatmanaam ॥

December 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वस्त्रेण वपुषा वाचा विद्यया विनयेन च ।
वकारैः पञ्चभिर्हीनः नरो नायाति गौरवम् ॥

Transliteration:
vastreṇa vapuṣā vācā vidyayā vinayena ca ।
vakāraiḥ pañcabhirhīnaḥ naro nāyāti gauravam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A person without all these 5 'va' kāra-s (words starting with 'va') does not attain respect—clothes, appearance, speech, knowledge, and humility.

Commentary:

For a person to attain respect, there are a few basic requirements. All the five requirements quoted here start with the Sanskrit alphabet 'va'.

1. vastra (clothes)—For humans, being clothed in society is necessary. It doesn't have to be extravagant and expensive, just decent and appropriate.

2. vapuṣā (appearance)—This is not just referring to physical beauty, but more to the presentability of a person.  It is about inner beauty and cleanliness.

3. vācā (speech)—One's speech should be pleasant, appealing, and harmless.

4. vidyaa (knowledge, education)—A person needs to have this to possess the above three 'va'kāra-s. Education gives one awareness of the world (and himself). It is also the one surefire way to attain liberation (mukti).

5. vinaya (humility). This is the most important adornment to any human being. Whether one is rich or poor, young or old - humility is the one adornment he can carry with him at all times.

Respect is both earned and lost. A person who has all the above 5 attributes, automatically attains respect wherever he goes.

pada vigrahaH:

वस्त्रेण वपुषा वाचा विद्यया विनयेन च ।
vastreṇa vapuṣā vācā vidyayā vinayena ca ।

वकारैः पञ्चभिः हीनः नरः न आयाति गौरवम् ॥
vakāraiḥ pañcabhiḥ hīnaḥ naraḥ na āyāti gauravam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vastreNa vapuShaa vaachaa vidyayaa vinayena cha ।
vakaaraiH pa~nchabhirhInaH naro naayaati gauravam ॥

vastreNa vapuShaa vaachaa vidyayaa vinayena cha ।

vakaaraiH pa~nchabhiH hInaH naraH na aayaati gauravam ॥

December 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
क्षणशः कणशश्चैव विद्यामर्थं च साधयेत् ।
क्षणत्यागे कुतो विद्या कणत्यागे कुतो धनम् ॥
- सुभाषितावलि

Transliteration:
kṣaṇaśaḥ kaṇaśaścaiva vidyāmarthaṃ ca sādhayet ।
kṣaṇatyāge kuto vidyā kaṇatyāge kuto dhanam ॥
- subhāṣitāvali

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge and wealth are procured with every moment and grain (respectively). (If) a moment is wasted, how can knowledge (be accrued)? (If a) grain is wasted, how can wealth (be accumulated)?

Commentary:

There is no limit to learning. If one is willing to further his quest for knowledge, he has to work incessantly towards achieving that goal. Every moment lost is equivalent to vidyā (knowledge) lost. The message for a student, (vidyārthī - literally, one yearning for vidyā) is: He has to strive continuously and focus on learning more each day, each hour, each moment.

If a farmer is willing to harvest more, he has to value every grain that he has grown. He cannot be negligent and scatter his harvest around. The advocacy here is not for becoming stingy, but to be mindful of the value of the grains and the toil that went into growing the grains. Only then can he be prosperous!

Just as every drop of water adds to become the mighty ocean, every moment of learning accounts for one's knowledge.  Every ounce of grain contributes to making one prosperous!

pada vigrahaH:
क्षणशः कणशः च एव विद्याम् अर्थं च साधयेत् ।
kṣaṇaśaḥ kaṇaśaḥ ca eva vidyām arthaṃ ca sādhayet ।

क्षण-त्यागे कुतः विद्या कण-त्यागे कुतः धनम् ॥
kṣaṇa-tyāge kutaḥ vidyā kaṇa-tyāge kutaḥ dhanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kShaNashaH kaNashashchaiva vidyaamarthaM cha saadhayet
kShaNatyaage kuto vidyaa kaNatyaage kuto dhanam
- subhaaShitaavali

kShaNashaH kaNashaH cha eva vidyaam arthaM cha saadhayet ।

kShaNa tyaage kutaH vidyaa kaNa tyaage kutaH dhanam ॥

December 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अज्ञः सुखमाराध्यः सुखतरमाराध्यते विशेषज्ञः ।
ज्ञानलवलेशदुर्विदग्धं ब्रह्मापि नरं न रञ्जयति ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
ajñaḥ sukhamārādhyaḥ sukhataramārādhyate viśeṣajñaḥ ।
jñānalavaleśadurvidagdhaṃ brahmāpi naraṃ na rañjayati ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The ignorant can be appeased easily, (and) the wise can be won over even more easily. However, even Lord Brahmā (the Creator) cannot amuse the ones who are audacious, even for the little bit of knowledge they possess.

Commentary:

Ignorant people, due to their lack of knowledge, submit to the intellect of others.

The well-learned, due to their knowledge, are humble and accommodating.

But those who fall between the above two categories, with a shred of knowledge, are arrogant and audacious. It is extremely difficult to please such people. The poet says that even Lord Brahmā, the Creator himself, finds it difficult to appease such people.

Humility is an adornment of the learned!  Be humble, stay humble. 

pada vigrahaH:
अज्ञः सुखम् आराध्यः सुखतरम् आराध्यते विशेषज्ञः ।
ajñaḥ sukham ārādhyaḥ sukhataram ārādhyate viśeṣajñaḥ ।

ज्ञान-लव-लेश-दुर्विदग्धं ब्रह्मा अपि नरं न रञ्जयति ॥
jñāna-lava-leśa-durvidagdhaṃ brahmā api naraṃ na rañjayati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aj~naH sukhamaaraadhyaH sukhataramaaraadhyate visheShaj~naH ।
j~naanalavaleshadurvidagdhaM brahmaapi naraM na ra~njayati ॥
- neetishataka

aj~naH sukham aaraadhyaH sukhataram aaraadhyate visheShaj~naH ।

j~naana lava lesha durvidagdhaM brahmaa api naraM na ra~njayati ॥

December 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दुर्लभं त्रयमेवैतत् दैवानुग्रहहेतुकम्  ।
मनुष्यत्वं मुमुक्षुत्वं महापुरुषसंश्रयः ॥
- विवेकचूडामणि


Transliteration:
durlabhaṃ trayamevaitat daivānugrahahetukam ।
manuṣyatvaṃ mumukṣutvaṃ mahāpuruṣasaṃśrayaḥ ॥
- vivekacūḍāmaṇi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These three are hard to come by and come only with God's grace - human birth, desire for liberation, company of the learned noble.

Commentary:

1. In this life, so much is taken for granted.  One does not realize that just being born as a human being is a rare blessing in itself. Amongst the multitudes of billions of organisms (living beings in each of the many species existent), only a rare few are bestowed the opportunity to be born as humans. It should be considered a privilege and be utilized with utmost respect.

2. Even if one is born as a human, not everyone is smitten by the desire to seek liberation (mokSha).  'Liberation' referred to here is not liberation from life but liberation from suffering!  It is said that pain is common but suffering is optional.  Liberation can be achieved only due to an intense desire to be liberated from mundane afflictions. Very few of us are driven by this desire.

3. Despite being inspired to attain mokṣa, not everyone is lucky enough to get the company and the proximity of the learned and enlightened.  Only through learning from their experience, can one attain this state.  No amount of toil will lead toward the goal of liberation, but the company of the wise and enlightened will.

Those who are blessed with the above three factors are truly fortunate! We should be glad that our blessings outweigh our troubles.  We should utilize every opportunity and count our blessings along the way.  

pada vigrahaH:

दुर्लभं त्रयम् एव एतत् दैव-अनुग्रह हेतुकम् ।
durlabhaṃ trayam eva etat daiva-anugraha hetukam ।

मनुष्यत्वं मुमुक्षुत्वं महापुरुष-संश्रयः ॥
manuṣyatvaṃ mumukṣutvaṃ mahāpuruṣa-saṃśrayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
durlabhaM trayamevaitat daivaanugrahahetukam ।
manuShyatvaM mumukShutvaM mahaapuruShasaMshrayaH ॥
- vivekachUDaamaNi

durlabhaM trayam eva etat daiva-anugraha hetukam ।

manuShyatvaM mumukShutvaM mahaapuruSha-saMshrayaH ॥

December 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आरम्भगुर्वी क्षयिणी क्रमेण
लघ्वी पुरा वृद्धिमती च पश्चात् ।
दिनस्य पूर्वार्धपरार्धभिन्ना
छायेव मैत्री खलसज्जनानाम् ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
ārambhagurvī kṣayiṇī krameṇa
laghvī purā vṛddhimatī ca paścāt ।
dinasya pūrvārdhaparārdhabhinnā
chāyeva maitrī khalasajjanānām ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Long to begin with, but diminishes later; (then again), it is small to start off but increases gradually - just the way a shadow differs in the first half of the day from the second half (of the day), so does the friendship of a wicked person vs. a good person.

Commentary:

Early in the morning, the shadow cast by the sun is longer than the object itself.  As the day progresses the Sun is directly over the head.  The shadow is hardly evident, lying right at the foot of the object. During the second half of the day - it starts off small, at the bottom of the object.  It grows gradually, and by the end of the day, it is bigger than the object itself!

Such is the difference between the friendships of a rogue and a noble person. With a rogue, it starts off on a very high note, only to diminish and disappear over time. However, with the noble, although it starts on a low key, it grows bigger and stronger by the end.

Time is the true testing ground of friendship!  Make lasting friendships.  Be an indelible friend. 

pada vigrahaH:
आरम्भ गुर्वी क्षयिणी क्रमेण
ārambha gurvī kṣayiṇī krameṇa

लघ्वी पुरा वृद्धिमती च पश्चात् ।
laghvī purā vṛddhimatī ca paścāt ।

दिनस्य पूर्व-अर्ध-पर-अर्ध-भिन्ना
vyagrāḥdinasya pūrva-ardha-para-ardha-bhinnā

छाया इव मैत्री खल-सज्जनानाम् ॥
chāyā iva maitrī khala-sajjanānām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aarambhagurvI kShayiNI krameNa
laghvI puraa vRuddhimatI cha pashchaat ।
dinasya pUrvaardhaparaardhabhinnaa
Chaayeva maitrI khalasajjanaanaam ॥
- neetishataka

aarambha-gurvI kShayiNI krameNa

laghvI puraa vRuddhimatI cha pashchaat ।

dinasya pUrva-ardha-para-ardha-bhinnaa

Chaayaa iva maitrI khala-sajjanaanaam ॥

December 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यस्मिन् देशे न सम्मानो न प्रीतिर्न च बान्धवाः । 

न च विद्यागमः कश्चिन्न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ


Transliteration:
yasmin deśe na sammāno na prītirna ca bāndhavāḥ ।

na ca vidyāgamaḥ kaścinna tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not live in such a place even for a day where there is—no respect, no affection, no relatives, nor an avenue for learning.

Commentary:

The place we call home should have something more than just material comforts. One can live in a palatial building, sleep on the softest bed, eat from golden plates and spoons, and still be unhappy. For happiness to be present in a home, there needs to be respect and love for one another. There also needs to be dear ones around. (Family doesn't necessarily mean related by blood. It is all the kin who one considers close to their heart.)

Wherever we are, we need to learn and grow, each and every day. If there is no avenue for learning and growing as individuals, then such a place will not be suitable as a home, either. The poet vehemently advises not to live in such a place even for a single day.

The lesson to be learnt here is: don't run away from home if these things are not available, rather work towards making conditions better! It is a reminder to make sure that a home is a happy place where everyone respects, loves, understands, and allows each other to grow as individuals.

Create a nurturing environment for those around you. Growing and allowing everyone to flourish is the key to happiness!  

pada vigrahaH:

यस्मिन् देशे न सम्मानः न प्रीतिः न च बान्धवाः ।
yasmin deśe na sammānaḥ na prītiḥ na ca bāndhavāḥ ।

न च विद्यागमः कश्चित् न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
na ca vidyāgamaḥ kaścit na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yasmin deshe na sammaano na preetirna cha baandhavaaH ।
na cha vidyaagamaH kashchinna tatra divasaM vaset ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

yasmin deshe na sammaanaH na preetiH na cha baandhavaaH ।

na cha vidyaagamaH kashchit na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

December 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अष्टादशपुराणानं सारं व्यासेन कीर्तितम् ।
परोपकारः पुण्याय पापाय परपीडनम् ॥

Transliteration:
aṣṭādaśapurāṇānaṃ sāraṃ vyāsena kīrtitam ।
paropakāraḥ puṇyāya pāpāya parapīḍanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The essence of all the 18 purāNās (scriptures) is sung by maharṣi Vyāsa: benevolence leads to virtue; torturing others leads to vice.

Commentary:

The great sage Veda Vyāsa summarizes the essence of the entire 18 purāNās in one sentence!  A person can be proficient in all the purāNās and know them like the back of his hand. However, if he needs a shortcut to all the teachings, even without knowing the scriptures, there is one simple rule: do good unto others and don't cause hurdles for others. Tormenting others is a surefire way of collecting more sin. Selfishness and self-centeredness don't get much merit either.

Living for the benefit of the world and for those around us is the one true way to eternal happiness.

pada vigrahaH:

अष्टादश-पुराणानं सारं व्यासेन कीर्तितम् ।
aṣṭādaśa-purāṇānaṃ sāraṃ vyāsena kīrtitam ।

पर-उपकारः पुण्याय पापाय पर-पीडनम् ॥
para-upakāraḥ puṇyāya pāpāya para-pīḍanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aShTaadashapuraaNaanaM saaraM vyaasena keertitam ।
paropakaaraH puNyaaya paapaaya parapeeDanam ॥

aShTaadasha-puraaNaanaM saaraM vyaasena keertitam ।

para-upakaaraH puNyaaya paapaaya para-peeDanam ॥

December 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वनानि दहतो वह्नेः सखा भवति मारुतः ।
स एव दीपनाषाय कृशे कस्यास्ति सौहृदम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, काकोलूकीय

Transliteration:
vanāni dahato vahneḥ sakhā bhavati mārutaḥ ।
sa eva dīpanāṣāya kṛśe kasyāsti sauhṛdam ॥
- pañcatantra, kākolūkīya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For the fire that is burning forests, wind becomes a friend. The same (wind becomes) the cause of extinguishing a lamp. Who has affection for the weak?

Commentary:

When a whole forest is ablaze, wind fans the fires making them burn with even more rage. But the same wind will become the reason for blowing out the fire in a little lamp. 

Alas, everyone befriends strength! Who wants to take the side of the weak?!

Everyone sucks up to power. Everyone wants to be around the rich and the famous. It takes a big heart and tremendous courage to befriend the downtrodden and weak. It takes a kind, gentle and understanding heart, to stand up for and with the less fortunate.

Be kind to those who are less fortunate.  It is an opportunity to show gratitude for the gifts of life that we have been bestowed with! 

pada vigrahaH:
वनानि दहतः वह्नेः सखा भवति मारुतः ।
vanāni dahataḥ vahneḥ sakhā bhavati mārutaḥ ।

सः एव दीप-नाषाय कृशे कस्य अस्ति सौहृदम् ॥
saḥ eva dīpa-nāṣāya kṛśe kasya asti sauhṛdam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vanaani dahato vahneH sakhaa bhavati maarutaH ।
sa eva dIpanaaShaaya kRushe kasyaasti sauhRudam ॥
- pa~nchatantra, kaakolUkeeya

vanaani dahataH vahneH sakhaa bhavati maarutaH ।

saH eva dIpa-naaShaaya kRushe kasya asti sauhRudam ॥

December 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गङ्गा पापं शशी तापं दैन्यं कल्पतरुस्तथा ।
पापं तापं च दैन्यं च घ्नन्ति सन्तो महाशयाः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
gaṅgā pāpaṃ śaśī tāpaṃ dainyaṃ kalpatarustathā ।
pāpaṃ tāpaṃ ca dainyaṃ ca ghnanti santo mahāśayāḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Gaṅgā (eradicates) sin; moon (eliminates) heat; kalpataru (terminates) poverty; (but) well-meaning noble quench sin, heat, and poverty.

Commentary:

As per belief, the river Gaṅgā is said to wash away one's sins.  The moon quells the heat of the sun.  Allegory says that 'kalpataru', the tree, quenches poverty (as it showers one with all his wishes). River Gaṅgā, the moon, and the kalpataru can satiate only one kind of thirst each. But noble people, with their good intentions, can quench all these three hardships, single-handedly.  They are generous, kind and patient.  They try and soothe away the hardships of people with all effort.  

Such is the effect of the company and proximity of the noble: no ill consequence shall linger, no wish shall be left unturned, and no thirst shall be left unquenched.

pada vigrahaH:

गङ्गा पापं शशी तापं दैन्यं कल्पतरुः तथा  ।
gaṅgā pāpaṃ śaśī tāpaṃ dainyaṃ kalpataruḥ tathā ।

पापं तापं च दैन्यं च घ्नन्ति सन्तः महाशयाः ॥
pāpaṃ tāpaṃ ca dainyaṃ ca ghnanti santaḥ mahāśayāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ga~ngaa paapaM shashI taapaM dainyaM kalpatarustathaa ।
paapaM taapaM cha dainyaM cha ghnanti santo mahaashayaaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

ga~ngaa paapaM shashI taapaM dainyaM kalpataruH tathaa ।

paapaM taapaM cha dainyaM cha ghnanti santaH mahaashayaaH ॥

December 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न चोरहार्यं न च राजहार्यं 
न भ्रातृभाज्यं न च भारकारि ।
व्यये कृते वर्धत एव नित्यं 
विद्याधनं सर्वधनप्रधानम् ॥

Transliteration:
na corahāryaṃ na ca rājahāryaṃ
na bhrātṛbhājyaṃ na ca bhārakāri ।
vyaye kṛte vardhata eva nityaṃ
vidyādhanaṃ sarvadhanapradhānam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Not stolen by thieves, not seized by kings, not divided among brothers, not heavy to carry. The more you spend, the more it flourishes always. The wealth of knowledge is the most important among all kinds of wealth.

Commentary:

One can possess many different kinds of wealth. It can be money, gold, antiques, precious gems, rare collectibles, expensive articles of all kinds, and the list goes on. However, all these assets are vulnerable to various kinds of losses or destruction.

• Thieves could steal one's wealth
• Kings could snatch one's wealth as a tax for possession
• If inherited, wealth needs to be split and shared among brothers
• Wealth is a burden to carry from one place to another.

Knowledge, on the other hand, can not be stolen, seized, shared, taxed, or deemed too heavy for transportation! And on top of that, it is the most useful kind of wealth at all times, places, and eras!

Most importantly, all material wealth diminishes over time. Only knowledge increases with distribution! As they say, 'teaching, is the best way to learn'. The person sharing the knowledge has nothing to lose, as he gains more for himself and so does the person he shares it with.

Isn't knowledge truly the most amazing of all wealth in this world?!

Let's get earning—knowledge, that is!

pada vigrahaH: 
न चोर-हार्यं न च राज-हार्यं 
na cora-hāryaṃ na ca rāja-hāryaṃ

न भ्रातृ-भाज्यं न च भारकारि ।
na bhrātṛ-bhājyaṃ na ca bhārakāri ।

व्यये कृते वर्धते एव नित्यं 

vyaye kṛte vardhate eva nityaṃ 

विद्या-धनं सर्व-धन-प्रधानम् ॥
vidyā-dhanaṃ sarva-dhana-pradhānam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na chorahaaryaM na cha raajahaaryaM
na bhraatRubhaajyaM na cha bhaarakaari ।
vyaye kRute vardhata eva nityaM
vidyaadhanaM sarvadhanapradhaanam ॥

na chora-haaryaM na cha raaja-haaryaM

na bhraatRu-bhaajyaM na cha bhaarakaari ।

vyaye kRute vardhata eva nityaM

vidyaa-dhanaM sarva-dhana-pradhaanam ॥