December 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यद्यदालिखति मनोऽऽशावर्तिकाभिर्हृदयफलके ।
तत्तद्बाल इव विधिर्निभृतं हसित्वा प्रोञ्छति ॥
- सप्‍तशती

Transliteration:
yadyadālikhati mano''śāvartikābhirhṛdayaphalake ।
tattadbāla iva vidhirnibhṛtaṃ hasitvā proñchati ॥
- sap‍taśatī

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whatever the mind inscribes (paints) on the canvas of the heart with the brushes of desire, fate stealthily (and) smilingly wipes it all out like a little child!

Commentary:

"Man proposes; God disposes!"

Not all desires bloom into fruition, no matter how meticulously one plans or how fervently one hopes. People often paint their hearts with vibrant shades of dreams and expectations, yet it is destiny that holds the ultimate brushstroke. The poet beautifully likens destiny to a mischievous child who stealthily erases those dreams with a playful smile, leaving behind no trace of the effort or longing that preceded it. Destiny, like this child, operates silently and unannounced, altering outcomes as it sees fit.

What does this mean for us? It reminds us that while we can strive with all our might, the final outcome often lies beyond our control. Effort is ours to give, but the results remain in the hands of destiny. Yet, this is not a cause for despair. Often, when a cherished aspiration goes unfulfilled, it is because a higher reason is at play—something better aligned with the greater good. Viewing setbacks through this lens can ease the sting of disappointment.

Effort remains vital, for destiny itself is shaped by the vices and virtues of one's past. Each person is the architect of their fate, building their future through present actions. As someone wisely said, "Fate is nothing but the deeds committed in a prior state of existence."

If we desire better outcomes tomorrow, we must act with integrity and diligence today. Let us set our best foot forward with unwavering faith in the process!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् यत् आलिखति मनः आशा-वर्तिकाभिः हृदय-फलके ।
yat yat ālikhati manaḥ āśā-vartikābhiḥ hṛdaya-phalake ।

तत् तत् बाल इव विधिः निभृतं हसित्वा प्रोञ्छति ॥
tat tat bāla iva vidhiḥ nibhṛtaṃ hasitvā proñchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadyadaalikhati mano..shaavartikaabhirhRudayaphalake ।
tattadbaala iva vidhirnibhRutaM hasitvaa pro~nChati ॥
- saptashatI

yat yat aalikhati manaH aashaa-vartikaabhiH hRudaya-phalake ।

tat tat baala iva vidhiH nibhRutaM hasitvaa pro~nChati ॥

December 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
किं मित्रमन्ते सुकृतं न लोकाः
किं ध्येयमीशस्य पदं न शोकाः ।
किं काम्यमव्याजसुखं न भोगाः
किं जल्पनीयं हरिनाम नान्यत् ॥
- रसगङ्गाधर

Transliteration:
kiṃ mitramante sukṛtaṃ na lokāḥ
kiṃ dhyeyamīśasya padaṃ na śokāḥ ।
kiṃ kāmyamavyājasukhaṃ na bhogāḥ
kiṃ jalpanīyaṃ harināma nānyat ॥
- rasagaṅgādhara

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Who is a friend in the end?  Good deed(s), not people.  What should be contemplated upon?!  The Lord's feet, not sorrows.  What should be desired?  Un-abound happiness, not indulgences.  What should be prattled?  Only the name of Śrī Hari, nothing else.

Commentary:

A friend in need is a friend indeed.  True friends are hard to find.  A single rose can be my garden, a single friend my world!  All these statements are nice to quote and very true as well.  But they can only go so far.  After passing on, one's best friends are his vices and virtues alone!  One needs to keep this in mind at all times.  Befriend many, but at the same time, keep your sights on the friends who accompany you through the entire journey here and hereafter!

Given the nature of the mind, it constantly keeps churning up thoughts.  It is its very nature.  It does not stay still.  Throughout the waking hours, it jumps from one thought to another, from one town to another, and even from one world to another.  There is no stopping it.  Isn't that why it is said to be faster than the wind and as restless as a monkey?! Thoughts are the very existence and thriving purposes of the mind.  In that case, why not feed it something healthy?  Think of the Lord's lotus feet.  Contemplate and meditate on His prowess and presence in the very existence of all beings!  

When there is a mind, there are thoughts in it. It is quite natural to have thoughts of something desirable!  So, why not desire something more eternal and long-lasting?! In aspiring for something trivial with a modest shelf life, isn't one wasting precious time instead of focusing on something that lasts forever?  What lasts forever is the ultimate Bliss. It is attained by treading the path of dharma, not chasing after sense pleasures.

With a mind that has thoughts oriented only toward desires, what can be said about the speech coming forth?  With so many thoughts and desires, it is only predictable that there will be a lot of chattering.  Many a time, mindless too...  Instead of gossip, why not make the words the Lord's name?!

With virtue as a friend, with the mind and desires under check, even mindless prattling automatically becomes nothing but the name of the Lord! Knowing the right goals and priorities will put us on the right path, without a doubt.

pada vigrahaH:
किं मित्रम् अन्ते सुकृतं न लोकाः
kiṃ mitram ante sukṛtaṃ na lokāḥ

किं ध्येयम् ईशस्य पदं न शोकाः  ।
kiṃ dhyeyam īśasya padaṃ na śokāḥ ।

किं काम्यम् अव्याज-सुखं न भोगाः 
kiṃ kāmyam avyāja-sukhaṃ na bhogāḥ

किं जल्पनीयं हरि-नाम न अन्यत् ॥
kiṃ jalpanīyaṃ hari-nāma na anyat ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kiM mitramante sukRutaM na lokaaH
kiM dhyeyamIshasya padaM na shokaaH ।
kiM kaamyamavyaajasukhaM na bhogaaH
kiM jalpanIyaM harinaama naanyat ॥
- rasaga~ngaadhara

kiM mitram ante sukRutaM na lokaaH

kiM dhyeyam Ishasya padaM na shokaaH ।

kiM kaamyam avyaaja-sukhaM na bhogaaH

kiM jalpanIyaM hari-naama na anyat ॥

December 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अहन्यहनि भूतानि गच्छन्तीह यमालयम् ।
शेषाः स्थावरमिच्छन्ति किमाश्चर्यमतः परम् ॥
- महाभारत, वनपर्व

Transliteration:
ahanyahani bhūtāni gacchantīha yamālayam ।
śeṣāḥ sthāvaramicchanti kimāścaryamataḥ param ॥
- mahābhārata, vanaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Every day,  beings go to the abode of Yama (death).  The rest desire for immortality.  What can be more astonishing than this?!

Commentary:

Day in and day out, mortal beings see death in one form or another.  It could be the passing of a near and dear one or road kill on the street.  Although the reality of life (rather, death) is evident from the very moment of birth, beings want to believe that somehow they will be spared that trouble!  What can be a more astonishing phenomenon than that!  Isn't this denial the biggest wonder of the world?! 

If we really think about it, the root cause of all fears is: the fear of death.  Be it claustrophobia, hydrophobia, or whatever other phobia, the main underlying cause is the fear that one might die in those circumstances. The 'fear of the unknown' is so intense that it overbears all other knowledge. 

So much so that most people would rather choose unhappiness over uncertainty! One would rather stay in sorrow rather than face the unknown. He would embrace the 'ignorance is bliss' philosophy and pretend that the unknown shall never come to him just so he doesn't have to face that 'fear of the unknown'!  

Someone was asked, "If death meant just leaving the stage long enough to change costume and return as a new character...would you slow down or speed up?"  If one knew more about what happens after life, the fear might not have been so gripping.  

This is one field of knowledge in which science has not been able to explain or prove much.  Science believes only upon seeing proof.  However, spirituality begins where science stops! Philosophy first believes completely and then perceives its authenticity.  This method of learning is the key to vedāntic knowledge.  Scriptures given by the rishis (sages) come to aid here.  They were scientists of the highest order who experienced life beyond life.  Certainly, there is merit to what they have written!

“One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it is worth watching.”

pada vigrahaH:
अहनि अहनि भूतानि गच्छन्ति इह यम-आलयम् ।
ahani ahani bhūtāni gacchanti iha yama-ālayam ।

शेषाः स्थावरम् इच्छन्ति किम् आश्चर्यम् अतः परम् ॥
śeṣāḥ sthāvaram icchanti kim āścaryam ataḥ param ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ahanyahani bhUtaani gachChantIha yamaalayam ।
sheShaaH sthaavaramichChanti kimaashcharyamataH param ॥
- mahaabhaarata, vanaparva

ahani ahani bhUtaani gachChanti iha yama-aalayam ।

sheShaaH sthaavaram ichChanti kim aashcharyam ataH param ॥

December 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते  ।
लोभात् मोहश्च नाशश्च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
- हितोपदेश

Transliteration:
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।
lobhāt mohaśca nāśaśca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

From greed originates anger; greed gives rise to lust/desire; from greed (come) attachment and ruin.  Greed is the cause of sin.

Commentary:

Poverty wants much, but avarice... everything!  A poor person wants many things to make ends meet.  He is satiated after that.  But he who is excessively greedy always wants something, whether he needs it or not.  Greed is like a monster, standing with his mouth wide open, to devour everything that comes its way.  The more that greed is fed, the more hungry it gets!

Along with all the havoc greed causes it is the originator of anger.  When the greedy do not get what their heart desires, the first response is, getting angry.  Anger breeds resentment, another unhealthy emotion.  Anger first burns the one who is angry even before causing any harm to the person he is angry with!

Greed gives rise to lust.  Lust is never quenched and is flamed further with indulgence.

Greed conjoined with lust and anger can only lead towards attachment and destruction, all of which lead one towards committing sin.  They say hell has 3 gates—lust, anger, and greed.  All of these can originate from greed.  The best remedy to protect oneself from spiraling down this ladder of fall is to keep greed at bay.

pada vigrahaH:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते ।
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।

लोभात् मोहः च नाशः च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
lobhāt mohaḥ ca nāśaḥ ca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।
lobhaat mohashcha naashashcha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥
- hitopadesha

lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।

lobhaat mohaH cha naashaH cha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥

December 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पिण्डे पिण्डे मतिर्भिन्ना कुण्डे कुण्डे नवं पयः ।
जातौ जातौ नवाचाराः नवा वाणी मुखे मुखे ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
piṇḍe piṇḍe matirbhinnā kuṇḍe kuṇḍe navaṃ payaḥ ।
jātau jātau navācārāḥ navā vāṇī mukhe mukhe ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Varied is the intellect in different people; varied is the (taste in) water from different sources; varied are the customs from different descents; varied are the speech from different folks.

Commentary:

Water from each well, pond, and lake tastes different.  Each lineage of people has different customs, practices, and beliefs.  Each individual speaks and sounds differently.  Similarly, each person is different and each has a different perspective.  It is these varied perspectives that make the world unique and beautiful!  

If not, imagine a world full of people like oneself!!  That is not only impractical and boring but also impossible.  If one person is exactly like the other, each with his own ego, imagine the outcome of such a situation!  Neither shall give up, and neither shall win.  At the end of the day, neither likes the other which truly implies that they both hate themselves!  So, thank God for making variety the spice of life.  Despite being born from the same energy and enlivened with the light of the same supreme power, each individual is different.  It is best when the surroundings are accepted in their varied colors and hues.

The essence of all beings is the same, only their approaches are different.  Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects!  When seen with an open mind the entire world seems quite amusing and entertaining.  No point hanging on to a stringent mindset and fretting about every fleeting thought that arises in the mind, isn't it?!

pada vigrahaH:
पिण्डे पिण्डे मतिः भिन्ना कुण्डे कुण्डे नवं पयः ।
piṇḍe piṇḍe matiḥ bhinnā kuṇḍe kuṇḍe navaṃ payaḥ ।

जातौ जातौ नव आचाराः नवा वाणी मुखे मुखे ॥
jātau jātau nava ācārāḥ navā vāṇī mukhe mukhe ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
piNDe piNDe matirbhinnaa kuNDe kuNDe navaM payaH ।
jaatau jaatau navaachaaraaH navaa vaaNI mukhe mukhe ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

piNDe piNDe matiH bhinnaa kuNDe kuNDe navaM payaH ।

jaatau jaatau nava aachaaraaH navaa vaaNI mukhe mukhe ॥

November 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुजनो न याति वैरं परहितबुद्धिर्विनाशकालेऽपि ।
छेदेऽपि चन्दनतरुः सुरभयति मुखं कुठारस्य ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि

Transliteration:
sujano na yāti vairaṃ parahitabuddhirvināśakāle'pi ।
chede'pi candanataruḥ surabhayati mukhaṃ kuṭhārasya ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An affable person (who is) always engrossed in the benefaction of others shall not resort to hostility, even in times of (his own) downfall.  Upon chopping, the sandal tree only smears its fragrance onto the blade of the axe.

Commentary:

When an axe strikes down a sandalwood tree, the tree does not retaliate with hostility or defend itself with a shield. Instead, it stands firm, allowing itself to be felled, and even bestows its sweet fragrance upon the blade that cuts it. Such is the grace of a truly benevolent person—they remain composed and compassionate even in the face of adversity and harm.

A person of such character never truly falls, regardless of appearance. What may seem like a downfall by worldly standards is, in reality, a testament to their greatness. On the scales of benevolence and grace, they remain towering figures. Their honor and reputation remain untarnished, for true eminence lies not in material success but in steadfast virtue.

The truest measure of amicability is constancy in the face of adversity. Doesn't this prove that a person’s affability is rooted in what they give "of" themselves rather than what they seek "for" themselves? Give generously, with pure intentions and a kind heart—this will be your enduring legacy and shield through life’s trials.

pada vigrahaH:
सुजनः न याति वैरं पर-हित-बुद्धिः विनाश-काले अपि ।
sujanaḥ na yāti vairaṃ para-hita-buddhiḥ vināśa-kāle api ।

छेदे अपि चन्दन-तरुः सुरभयति मुखं कुठारस्य ॥
chede api candana-taruḥ surabhayati mukhaṃ kuṭhārasya ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sujano na yaati vairaM parahitabuddhirvinaashakaale.pi ।
Chede.pi chandanataruH surabhayati mukhaM kuThaarasya ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

sujanaH na yaati vairaM para-hita-nirataH vinaasha-kaale api ।

Chede api chandana-taruH surabhayati mukhaM kuThaarasya ॥

November 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
जीर्यन्ति जीर्यतः केशाः दन्ता जीर्यन्ति जीर्यतः ।
चक्षुःश्रोत्रे च जीर्येते तृष्णैका तु न जीर्यते ॥
- महाभारत, अनुशासनपर्व

Transliteration:
jīryanti jīryataḥ keśāḥ dantā jīryanti jīryataḥ ।
cakṣuḥśrotre ca jīryete tṛṣṇaikā tu na jīryate ॥
- mahābhārata, anuśāsana parva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Hairs ripen with age; teeth wear out with age; eyes and ears get feeble too.  But alas! (the thirst of) desire is not placated!

Commentary:

As time passes, hair turns gray, teeth fall out, and hearing and vision decline. The skin wrinkles, the back hunches, and the limbs weaken. The effects of aging become visible in every part of the body.

At this stage, one might expect to have come to terms with the impermanence of material things, including the body. But no! Desires remain strong, and persistence only intensifies. The craving for self-gratification and material possessions grows with greater urgency as if there is a looming deadline to fulfill every need in the limited time left. Desires are inherently such that the more they are indulged, the more they multiply. There is no end to wants. Trying to quench an unquenchable thirst only drains one’s energy, causing the true purpose of life to be lost in the process.

Can one simply cut off all desires in old age? Not likely! It all depends on the training of the mind. If one has been accustomed to indulging in likes and dislikes throughout life, it’s unrealistic to expect sudden changes in old age. It’s not about magically renouncing everything to become a saint. Instead, one must consistently guide the mind, keeping it focused on the higher purpose of life and constantly reminding oneself of the transient nature of the world.

Start early—put a leash on desires. Isn’t it easier to train a horse with reins than to tame a wild one running recklessly?

pada vigrahaH:
जीर्यन्ति जीर्यतः केशाः दन्ताः जीर्यन्ति जीर्यतः ।
jīryanti jīryataḥ keśāḥ dantāḥ jīryanti jīryataḥ ।

चक्षुः-श्रोत्रे च जीर्येते तृष्णा एका तु न जीर्यते ॥
cakṣuḥ-śrotre ca jīryete tṛṣṇā ekā tu na jīryate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
jIryanti jIryataH keshaaH dantaa jIryanti jIryataH ।
chakShuHshrotre cha jIryete tRuShNaikaa tu na jIryate ॥
- mahaabhaarata, anushaasanaparva

jIryanti jIryataH keshaaH dantaaH jIryanti jIryataH ।

chakShuH-shrotre cha jIryete tRuShNaa ekaa tu na jIryate ॥

November 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
तत्कर्म यन्न बन्धाय सा विद्या या विमुक्तये ।
आयासायापरं कर्म विद्याऽन्या शिल्पनैपुणम् ॥
- विष्णुपुराण

Transliteration:
tatkarma yanna bandhāya sā vidyā yā vimuktaye ।
āyāsāyāparaṃ karma vidyā'nyā śilpanaipuṇam ॥
- viṣṇupurāṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which doesn't lead to binding is action; that which leads to liberation is knowledge.  All other actions are mere chores of burden; all other sciences are simply craftsmanship.

Commentary:

Each and every action executed should be done with a feeling of detachment.  For any deed done or any chore performed, the motive behind it should not be a selfish one.  It should not be done because it brings oneself name and fame, nor because it makes one feel entitled and accomplished.  It should be performed with the attitude of duty and responsibility alone.  

Any action performed as food for the ego is as good as not done, says the poet!  One is hurting himself by indulging in such actions, for he is only tying himself up further.  It is as if a bird willfully flies into a cage, closes the door, locks itself up, throws away the keys, and dreams about conquering the skies!   Obviously, it would now be nearly impossible for the bird to regain its freedom!! 

Only that which leads one towards the path of liberation is knowledge.  Only that action is fruitful which is not binding.  All other wisdom and actions are mere strenuous craftsmanship, says the poet.  Any other learning is just another skill.  It might be the skill of the hand, heart, or head.  But that which does not emancipate one from the bindings of the world, mainly his ego, is no true learning.

The essence of these definitions is a call for a shift in attitude.  The same chores and skills can lead to the ultimate goal when the attitude towards the action, as well as its result, is that of detachment.  For, he who is pristine and pure needs but one thing—detachment!  There is no pain, hatred, or sadness where there is detachment.  It is a win-win situation!

pada vigrahaH:
तत् कर्म यत् न बन्धाय सा विद्या या विमुक्तये ।
tat karma yat na bandhāya sā vidyā yā vimuktaye ।

आयासाय अपरं कर्म विद्या अन्या शिल्प-नैपुणम् ॥
āyāsāya aparaṃ karma vidyā anyā śilpa-naipuṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
tatkarma yanna bandhaaya saa vidyaa yaa vimuktaye ।
aayaasaayaaparaM karma vidyaa,nyaa shilpanaipuNam ॥
- viShNupuraaNa

tat karma yat na bandhaaya saa vidyaa yaa vimuktaye ।

aayaasaaya aparaM karma vidyaa anyaa shilpa-naipuNam ॥

November 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शुभं करोति कल्याणम् आरोग्यं धनसम्पदा ।
शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोस्तुते ॥

Transliteration:
śubhaṃ karoti kalyāṇam ārogyaṃ dhanasampadā ।
śatrubuddhivināśāya dīpajyotirnamostute ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

O light of the lamp! The one who bestows auspiciousness, fortune, health, (and) wealth; prostrations (and prayers) to you, for the destruction of the attitude of enmity.

Commentary:

A lamp is a symbol of not only light but knowledge as well.  Just as a lamp eradicates darkness, the light of knowledge eradicates ignorance.  The ignorance of the ego differentiates—one's own from others', his from hers, mine from yours.  

Where there is differentiation, there is either an inferiority or superiority complex.  This leads to jealousy, which in turn transforms into enmity.  The light of knowledge cuts this cycle out in the very bud.  For those who are aware that there is the same light of the Supreme in everyone, there is no room for enmity!

It is a prayer requesting 'to kill the feeling of enmity in oneself', not that 'the enemy's intellect should be killed' (śatrubuddhivināśāya can be interpreted either way, depending on how the words are split).  One should be careful not to understand this verse wrongly. 

May the light of that lamp flourish in each home and heart.  May it bestow good fortune, health, wealth, and austerity to all.  May the spiritual growth and wealth of all increase abundantly now and always!

pada vigrahaH:
शुभं करोति कल्याणम् आरोग्यं धन-सम्पदा  ।
śubhaṃ karoti kalyāṇam ārogyaṃ dhana-sampadā ।

शत्रु-बुद्धि-विनाशाय दीप-ज्योतिः नमोस्तु ते ॥
śatru-buddhi-vināśāya dīpa-jyotiḥ namostu te ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shubhaM karoti kalyaaNam aarogyaM dhanasampadaa ।
shatrubuddhivinaashaaya deepajyotirnamostute ॥

shubhaM karoti kalyaaNam aarogyaM dhana-sampadaa  ।

shatru-buddhi-vinaashaaya deepa-jyotiH namostu te ॥

October 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नष्टं मृतमतिक्रान्तं नानुशोचन्ति पण्डिताः ।
पण्डितानाञ्च मूर्खाणां विशेषोऽयं यतः स्मृतः ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र, मित्रभेद

Transliteration:
naṣṭaṃ mṛtamatikrāntaṃ nānuśocanti paṇḍitāḥ ।
paṇḍitānāñca mūrkhāṇāṃ viśeṣo'yaṃ yataḥ smṛtaḥ ॥
- pañcatantra, mitrabheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(For) that which is lost, dead, or has passed—the intelligent do not bemoan.  It is deemed that is the difference between the intelligent and the foolish.

Commentary:

That which is lost cannot be brought back.  The dead cannot be revived nor can the past be changed!  That which is inevitable cannot be altered anyway. 

The only thing under one's control is his attitude.  Only the foolish invest their time in worrying about the past.  The poet says the intelligent do not bemoan and bewail such things.  That is what sets him apart from the rest.  The intelligent clearly understand that the past has passed and will stay there.  They do everything they can to make a difference in the present and take only the lessons from yesterday.   They take further steps with this resolve in their mind.  It takes a lot of strength, courage, and grace to move on into the future, despite one's past!

No man is rich enough to buy back the past!  No amount of fretting will put a dent in what is already history!  Don't make the future an experiment, and the past a regret.  Hence, keep the lessons from the past, live in the present, and shape a bright future!

pada vigrahaH:
नष्टं मृतम् अतिक्रान्तं न अनुशोचन्ति पण्डिताः ।
naṣṭaṃ mṛtam atikrāntaṃ na anuśocanti paṇḍitāḥ ।

पण्डितानां च मूर्खाणां विशेषः अयं यतः स्मृतः ॥
paṇḍitānāṃ ca mūrkhāṇāṃ viśeṣaḥ ayaṃ yataḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naShTaM mRutamatikraantaM naanushochanti paNDitaaH ।
paNDitaanaa~ncha mUrkhaaNaaM visheSho.yaM yataH smRutaH ॥
- pa~nchatantra, mitrabheda

naShTaM mRutam atikraantaM na anushochanti paNDitaaH ।

paNDitaanaaM cha mUrkhaaNaaM visheShaH ayaM yataH smRutaH ॥

October 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वभावसुन्दरं वस्तु न संस्कारमपेक्षते ।
मुक्तारत्नस्य शाणाश्मघर्षणं नोपयुज्यते ॥
- दृष्टान्तकलिका

Transliteration:
svabhāvasundaraṃ vastu na saṃskāramapekṣate ।
muktāratnasya śāṇāśmagharṣaṇaṃ nopayujyate ॥
- dṛṣṭāntakalikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is beautiful by nature does not need further refinement.  For a pearl, grinding on a touchstone will do no good!

Commentary:

In its original form, a pearl is lustrous.  One does not have to scrub or polish it to make it shine brighter.  In fact, grinding only harms the pearl because it chips away its layers!  By its very nature, it has the shine that it has.  Any method of processing can neither make it shine less nor more!

That is true for the characteristics of a person as well.  They will shine all on their own, whether he is sitting on a king's throne or living in some obscure thatch, his originality, attributes, and nature will not change.  Just as sweetness is inseparable from sugar, just as saltiness is inseverable from salt, so are the intrinsic characteristics of anyone or anything.  No contentions about this.

Trust your nature and let it shine, all on its own accord!  At the same time, let the nature of others shine through in all their glories as well.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वभाव-सुन्दरं वस्तु न संस्कारम् अपेक्षते ।
svabhāva-sundaraṃ vastu na saṃskāram apekṣate ।

मुक्तारत्नस्य शाण-अश्म-घर्षणं न उपयुज्यते ॥
muktāratnasya śāṇa-aśma-gharṣaṇaṃ na upayujyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svabhaavasundaraM vastu na saMskaaramapekShate ।
muktaaratnasya shaaNaashmagharShaNaM nopayujyate ॥
- dRuShTaantakalikaa

svabhaava-sundaraM vastu na saMskaaram apekShate ।

muktaaratnasya shaaNa-ashma-gharShaNaM na upayujyate ॥

October 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अणुभ्यश्च महद्भ्यश्च शास्त्रेभ्यः कुशलो नरः ।
सर्वतः सारमादद्यात् पुष्पेभ्य इव षट्पदः ॥
-भागवत

Transliteration:
aṇubhyaśca mahadbhyaśca śāstrebhyaḥ kuśalo naraḥ ।
sarvataḥ sāramādadyāt puṣpebhya iva ṣaṭpadaḥ ॥
-bhāgavata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whether the indoctrination is infinitesimal or ginormous, a skilled person learns the essence of everything, just as the bees collect nectar.

Commentary:

Bees do not discriminate.  Whether it is a huge sunflower or a tiny little jasmine, they suck the nectar from it with the same eagerness and alertness!  For the bee, each drop of nectar is precious irrespective of its origin.  In the end, each drop collectively makes the hive complete!

Such should be the interest, attentiveness, and curiosity while learning any kind of knowledge.  Be it a profound text or a small law of nature, each doctrine has its own special place and need.  Certainly, one must extract the essence of all knowledge with all eagerness.

Being conscious of one's own ignorance is the greatest step towards knowledge. Knowledge is power.  Get powerful!

pada vigrahaH:
अणुभ्यः च महद्भ्यः च शास्त्रेभ्यः कुशलः नरः ।
aṇubhyaḥ ca mahadbhyaḥ ca śāstrebhyaḥ kuśalaḥ naraḥ ।

सर्वतः सारम् आदद्यात् पुष्पेभ्यः इव षट्पदः ॥
sarvataḥ sāram ādadyāt puṣpebhyaḥ iva ṣaṭpadaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aNubhyashcha mahadbhyashcha shaastrebhyaH kushalo naraH ।
sarvataH saaramaadadyaat puShpebhya iva ShaTpadaH ॥
- bhaagavata

aNubhyaH cha mahadbhyaH cha shaastrebhyaH kushalaH naraH ।

sarvataH saaram aadadyaat puShpebhyaH iva ShaTpadaH ॥

October 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुणाः सन्ति नराणां चेत् विकसन्त्येव ते स्वयम् ।
न हि कस्तूरिकामोदः शपथेन निवार्यते ॥

Transliteration:
guṇāḥ santi narāṇāṃ cet vikasantyeva te svayam ।
na hi kastūrikāmodaḥ śapathena nivāryate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If there are efficacies in people, they shall blossom on their own.  It is not possible to ward off the perfume of musk by any means.

Commentary:

What is inherent cannot stay hidden, nor can it be changed for any reason!  Can any amount of washing or drying strip away the innate fragrance of musk?  Can any amount of coaxing make a nightingale sing less sweetly?  Can any amount of bleaching peel the colors from the feathers of a peacock?

The inherent attributes of an object are ingrained in its very existence!  That is true for the nature of people as well.  The intrinsic nature of a person cannot be masked for very long.  It shall surface one day or the other.  Whether it is a person's good attributes or evil ones, they can't lay low forever.

The moral is—intrinsic characteristics need not be advertised.  True beauty is inherent and comes from character and strength.  They will shine on their own.  Nothing or nobody can dilute them!  Have faith in your innate strength and keep going!

pada vigrahaH:
गुणाः सन्ति नराणां चेत् विकसन्ति एव ते स्वयम् ।
guṇāḥ santi narāṇāṃ cet vikasanti eva te svayam ।

न हि कस्तूरिका आमोदः शपथेन निवार्यते ॥
na hi kastūrikā āmodaḥ śapathena nivāryate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guNaaH santi naraaNaaM chet vikasantyeva te svayam ।
na hi kastUrikaamodaH shapathena nivaaryate ॥

guNaaH santi naraaNaaM chet vikasanti eva te svayam ।

na hi kastUrikaa aamodaH shapathena nivaaryate ॥

October 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कृतस्य करणं नास्ति मृतस्य मरणं तथा ।
गतस्य शोचनं नास्ति ह्येतद्वेदविदां मतम् ॥

Transliteration:
kṛtasya karaṇaṃ nāsti mṛtasya maraṇaṃ tathā ।
gatasya śocanaṃ nāsti hyetadvedavidāṃ matam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no doing of that which is (already) done just as there is no death to the already dead. There is no sorrow for that which has passed—this is the opinion of those who are cognizant of the Vedas.

Commentary:

Do not cry over spilt milk!

Once a task is done, it cannot be undone. Once a seed sprouts, it cannot re-sprout. Once a child grows, they cannot grow again from the beginning. Similarly, there is no second death for someone who has already passed. If these truths are universally accepted, why not embrace the reality that there is no point in lamenting what is already gone?

When undoing or redoing is not an option, why waste time dwelling in sorrow? Those who understand the essence of the Vedas recognize this truth. They accept the past as it is and move forward, leaving their grief behind.

Truly, it is never worth crying over spilt milk.

pada vigrahaH:
कृतस्य करणं न अस्ति मृतस्य मरणं तथा ।
kṛtasya karaṇaṃ na asti mṛtasya maraṇaṃ tathā ।

गतस्य शोचनं न अस्ति हि एतत् वेद-विदां मतम् ॥
gatasya śocanaṃ na asti hi etat veda-vidāṃ matam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kRutasya karaNaM naasti mRutasya maraNaM tathaa ।
gatasya shochanaM naasti hyetadvedavidaaM matam ॥

kRutasya karaNaM na asti mRutasya maraNaM tathaa ।

gatasya shochanaM na asti hi etat veda-vidaaM matam ॥

September 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धर्मो यशो नयो दाक्ष्यं मनोहारि सुभाषितम् ।
इत्यादि गुणरत्नानां सङ्ग्रही नावसीदति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
dharmo yaśo nayo dākṣyaṃ manohāri subhāṣitam ।
ityādi guṇaratnānāṃ saṅgrahī nāvasīdati ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who collects jewels of merits such as dharma (virtue), fame, principles, politeness, mind captivating subhāṣitas, etc, will never perish.

Commentary:

Why do people collect anything? People collect in an effort to remember, relive, and feel a connection to the past and the memories it holds. Objects can connect the collector to his valued past. Hence, one's collections should be the time-tested treasures extracted from the experiences of elders and ancestors.

The question is, now what should one collect to flourish in life? Not real estate, not cash, not jewels or property. A good collection of merit is what he needs. The best of them are—dharma (virtue), prestige, principles, politeness, mind captivating subhāṣitas, and the like. One may lead a life without money, property, or embellishments. But without principles, virtues, and politeness, there is no life. How about subhāṣitas? It is said, "The wisdom of a culture lies in its proverbs and sayings, although brief and pithy." They have much to say in very few words! They save time in speaking and upon occasion, maybe the fullest and safest answers. Collect and learn them; they are notable measures of guidance for human life!

How does one collect subhāṣitas? To build a ship, the first step is not to gather wood and nails but to develop a deep longing for the boundless expanse of the sea. That passion will naturally drive the process of building the ship. Similarly, to collect subhāṣitas, one must cultivate a genuine love for the profound values they embody, admire their brevity, and recognize their transformative power in shaping one’s character, culture, and personality. When one truly values these virtues, the collection will happen effortlessly. In essence, nurture a value for the values!

Collect these invaluable treasures that make life precious and treasure them dearer than life. As the poet says, such a person shall never bite the dust. Success will come looking for that person.

May each of us travel in that direction. We will meet like-minded people with similar interests along the path, because 'birds of the same feather flock together!'

pada vigrahaH:
धर्मः यशः नयः दाक्ष्यं मनोहारि सुभाषितम् ।
dharmaḥ yaśaḥ nayaḥ dākṣyaṃ manohāri subhāṣitam ।

इत्यादि गुण-रत्नानां सङ्ग्रही न अवसीदति ॥
ityādi guṇa-ratnānāṃ saṅgrahī na avasīdati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dharmo yasho nayo daakShyaM manohaari subhaaShitam ।
ityaadi guNaratnaanaaM sa~ngrahI naavasIdati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

dharmaH yashaH nayaH daakShyaM manohaari subhaaShitam ।

ityaadi guNa-ratnaanaaM sa~ngrahI na avasIdati ॥

September 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथमेव च ।
बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहमेव च ॥
- कठोपनिषत्

Transliteration:
ātmānaṃ rathinaṃ viddhi śarīraṃ rathameva ca ।
buddhiṃ tu sārathiṃ viddhi manaḥ pragrahameva ca ॥
- kaṭhopaniṣat

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Know thyself as the traveler and body as the chariot. Perceive intellect as the charioteer and mind as its reins.

Commentary:

Who must be in charge? While riding in a chariot, who should have the final say? Should it be the chariot, the charioteer, the reins, or the horses! Actually, none of the above! The chariot, charioteer, and the horses—all of them are required to take instructions from the one traveling in the chariot. He is the one who knows his goal, his destination. So, he is the one who is required to know his path. 

The 5 senses are the horses and the sense objects are the various possible paths. One can take charge of his horses and lead them on the right track, or allow his horses to stray according to their own whims and fancies—choosing their own roads towards success or downfall. When this scenario can't procure great results, then how can allowing oneself to be led by one's senses be appropriate?!

Hearing only what pleases the ear will not end well. For, the ear wants to hear only praises! It doesn't want to heed any advice from anyone, whether valid or not.

Seeing only what pleases the eye isn't the best choice. For, the eye only likes to see what appeals, not the reality of things.

Letting the tongue taste all it wants can only bring harm to the person's health. Just because the tongue doesn't relish healthy food, one can't provide it with unhealthy, convenience food which is harmful in the long run. So on and so forth.

The best way is: to let the charioteer (intellect) have the reins (of the mind) in his control and make sure that the intellect listens to the traveler—the Self (finding this Self itself, is a quest of many lifetimes, with a much deeper import!)  Then, there will be no case of runaway horses or chariots and the traveler can safely reach his destination (attaining liberation).  When the charioteer is the Lord himself there is no doubt that the journey and the destination, become indisputable!

pada vigrahaH:
आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथम् एव च ।
ātmānaṃ rathinaṃ viddhi śarīraṃ ratham eva ca ।

बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहम् एव च ॥
buddhiṃ tu sārathiṃ viddhi manaḥ pragraham eva ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aatmaanaM rathinaM viddhi sharIraM rathameva cha ।
buddhiM tu saarathiM viddhi manaH pragrahameva cha ॥
- kaThopaniShat

aatmaanaM rathinaM viddhi sharIraM ratham eva cha ।

buddhiM tu saarathiM viddhi manaH pragraham eva cha ॥

September 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आचार्यात् पादमादत्ते पादं शिष्यः स्वमेधया ।
कालेन पादमादत्ते पादं सब्रह्मचारिभिः ॥  
-महाभारत, उद्योग

Transliteration:
ācāryāt pādamādatte pādaṃ śiṣyaḥ svamedhayā ।
kālena pādamādatte pādaṃ sabrahmacāribhiḥ ॥
-mahābhārata, udyoga

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A (student) acquires a quarter (of the knowledge) from his teacher, a quarter from his own intelligence, a quarter is grasped over time (and) a quarter from his classmates.

Commentary:

For one's learning sources are many. One cannot expect a teacher to prepare a potent potion for every lesson and feed it to him all at once. The teacher's contribution to one's learning is only twenty-five percent. The other twenty-five percent comes from the student's own interests and perceptions. One quarter comes from his fellow mates. Due to differences in perception, fellow students might have a different outlook. Those outlooks give insight into the topic from a different angle many a times. Hence, even classmates contribute to one's learning.  Another quarter comes over time. Although one has memorized all the chapters and scriptures, new meanings shall dawn upon him over a period of time. With age and maturity, comes a deeper understanding of the concepts learnt in grade school sometimes!

Learning doesn't stop after graduation. Like the poet says, a quarter of the knowledge is gained over time! Learning is a constant process. Someone said, "I am learning all the time; my tombstone will be my diploma!"  Anyone who stops learning is old; his chronological age doesn't matter. There is something new to learn every day if one pays attention. Learning is a treasure that follows its owner everywhere. Why not learn with all effort and attention?!

pada vigrahaH:
आचार्यात् पादम् आदत्ते पादं शिष्यः स्व-मेधया ।
ācāryāt pādam ādatte pādaṃ śiṣyaḥ sva-medhayā ।

कालेन पादम् आदत्ते पादं सब्रह्मचारिभिः ॥
kālena pādam ādatte pādaṃ sabrahmacāribhiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aachaaryaat paadamaadatte paadaM shiShyaH svamedhayaa ।
kaalena paadamaadatte paadaM sabrahmachaaribhiH ||
- mahaabhaarata, udyoga

aachaaryaat paadam aadatte paadaM shiShyaH sva-medhayaa ।

kaalena paadam aadatte paadaM sabrahmachaaribhiH ||

September 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अवज्ञया न दातव्यं कस्यचिल्लीलयापि वा ।
अवज्ञया कृतं हन्यात् दातारं नात्र संशयः ॥
- रामायण, बाल

Transliteration:
avajñayā na dātavyaṃ kasyacillīlayāpi vā ।
avajñayā kṛtaṃ hanyāt dātāraṃ nātra saṃśayaḥ ॥
- rāmāyaṇa, bāla

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Never give (charity) to anyone with contempt or disregard. Charity done in contempt will obliterate the giver, there is no doubt about that.

Commentary:

'Giving' is an act that is done out of the goodness of one's heart, not for name and fame. It should be done with humility and modesty. The benefit of giving is not for the receiver as much as it is for the giver!

The giver was blessed with a little more than the receiver. Hence, he has the ability to share. Truly, the giver benefits more because it teaches him selflessness. Therefore, the attitude with which he gives is highly important. Giving with contempt, arrogance, or displaying apathy are the worst kinds of giving. One must never give with this attitude, for, it is certain to destroy the giver! Isn't giving futile if the purpose is defeated? If the act of giving is bringing down the standards of one's moral ground, one might as well not give!

Like they say, you get the best out of others when you give the best of yourself.  That begins with the attitude with which we give. Humility is the only way. The value of a person resides in what and how he gives; not what he is capable of receiving. For, it is in giving that we receive.  The manner of giving is worth much more than the material itself.

pada vigrahaH:
अवज्ञया न दातव्यं कस्यचित् लीलया अपि वा ।
avajñayā na dātavyaṃ kasyacit līlayā api vā ।

अवज्ञया कृतं हन्यात् दातारं न अत्र संशयः ॥
avajñayā kṛtaṃ hanyāt dātāraṃ na atra saṃśayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
avaj~nayaa na daatavyaM kasyachillIlayaapi vaa ।
avaj~nayaa kRutaM hanyaat daataaraM naatra saMshayaH ॥
- raamaayaNa, baala

avaj~nayaa na daatavyaM kasyachit lIlayaa api vaa ।

avaj~nayaa kRutaM hanyaat daataaraM na atra saMshayaH ॥

September 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
श्रेयांसि बहु विघ्नानि भवन्ति महतामपि ।
अश्रेयसि प्रवृत्तानां दूरं यान्ति विनायकाः ॥

Transliteration:
śreyāṃsi bahu vighnāni bhavanti mahatāmapi ।
aśreyasi pravṛttānāṃ dūraṃ yānti vināyakāḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For noble people who perform laudable deeds, there are many hurdles. From those involved in disgraceful deeds, even obstacles stay away!

Commentary:

There are always at least two paths to choose from—one easy and the other challenging.

The only reward for taking the easy route is its ease. The poet observes that even obstacles avoid the path of those engaged in disgraceful pursuits, preferring instead to accompany the noble. Perhaps that’s why the path to nobility is filled with more hurdles and why noble individuals face greater hardships. These struggles are what mold them into truly noble beings. This verse serves as a reminder to pursue dharma steadfastly, no matter the obstacles.

In essence, do not lose heart in the face of hardships. Do not sacrifice ethics for ease or trade morals for material gain. Obstacles signify opportunities to learn and grow. Stumbling blocks test one’s strength and commitment to righteousness. Struggles often mean you’ve chosen a path of integrity, not the easy, unethical one. Stay the course—soon, the light at the end of the tunnel will become visible.

Your destiny is shaped by the choices you make, not by chance. So, shape your destiny by choosing wisely!

pada vigrahaH:
श्रेयांसि बहु विघ्नानि भवन्ति महताम् अपि ।
śreyāṃsi bahu vighnāni bhavanti mahatām api ।

अश्रेयसि प्रवृत्तानां दूरं यान्ति विनायकाः ॥
aśreyasi pravṛttānāṃ dūraṃ yānti vināyakāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shreyaaMsi bahu vighnaani bhavanti mahataamapi ।
ashreyasi pravRuttaanaaM dUraM yaanti vinaayakaaH ॥

shreyaaMsi bahu vighnaani bhavanti mahataam api ।

ashreyasi pravRuttaanaaM dUraM yaanti vinaayakaaH ॥

September 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
रोहते सायकैर्विद्धं वनं परशुना हतम् ।
वाचा दुरुक्तं बीभत्सं न सम्रोहति वाक्क्षतम् ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व

Transliteration:
rohate sāyakairviddhaṃ vanaṃ paraśunā hatam ।
vācā duruktaṃ bībhatsaṃ na samrohati vākkṣatam ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The (injury) caused by an arrow might heal; a forest felled with an axe may sprout. (But) the (wound) caused by a spiteful, mean word will barely recover.

Commentary:

Physical injuries are quick to mend. The body has the natural ability to try to fix the wound at the earliest. Even if chopped to the ground with an axe, plants have the strength to sprout forth new growth again. But, when a spiteful word is spoken, the damage caused is tremendous!

Without any physical contact, one can easily hurt someone's heart and kill their spirit. Words have colossal power hidden in them. They can either make or break the listener at many levels. One has to be very cautious at all times and watch his words. Sped arrows and spoken words can never be taken back. Once out of the mouth, it can be considered as permanent as written on stone. They get etched in the mind of the listener forever.

Speech is often regretted. Sticks and stones may break the bones, but spiteful words can kill the heart! Words and hearts must be handled with care, for words when spoken and hearts when broken are the hardest things to repair. Taking a moment to think before saying something might save a lot of grief for everyone involved. 

pada vigrahaH:
रोहते सायकैः विद्धं वनं परशुना हतम् ।
rohate sāyakaiḥ viddhaṃ vanaṃ paraśunā hatam ।

वाचा दुर्-उक्तं बीभत्सं न सम्-रोहति वाक्-क्षतम् ॥
vācā dur-uktaṃ bībhatsaṃ na sam-rohati vāk-kṣatam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
rohate saayakairviddhaM vanaM parashunaa hatam ।
vaachaa duruktaM bIbhatsaM na samrohati vaakkShatam ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

rohate saayakaiH viddhaM vanaM parashunaa hatam ।

vaachaa dur-uktaM bIbhatsaM na sam-rohati vaak-kShatam ॥

September 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शत्रोरपि गुणा वाच्याः दोषा वाच्या गुरोरपि ।
सर्वदा सर्वयत्नेन पुत्रे शिष्यवदाचरेत् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
śatrorapi guṇā vācyāḥ doṣā vācyā gurorapi ।
sarvadā sarvayatnena putre śiṣyavadācaret ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Merits should be spoken of even in an enemy; wrongdoings are to be pointed out even in a teacher; with all effort, deal with offspring as you would with students.

Commentary:

Some dos and don'ts!

Everyone has their own merits and demerits, even enemies. Just because he is not one's favorite person, doesn't mean his merits should be discounted. Great kings have always admired the valor of other powerful kings, although they were going head to head against each other. The value is given to the merit, not to the person himself.  See the good in everyone!

Follies are follies, whether coming from a layman, a scholar, an uneducated man, or even a teacher. To uphold dharma, the scriptures grant permission to students or youngsters to call out even their educators upon taking a wrong step. Dharma has the last word always! Have the courage and confidence to speak up against wrongdoings.

The responsibility of any parent is to equip their offspring with life-essential skills that are rich with morals and values.  This leads them towards a spiritually rich and peaceful lifestyle. To do that, the parents need to be unbiased while teaching them. Their merits should be rewarded and their follies penalized, just as they would their students. Indulging them at all times will teach them no life lessons. If one wants their offspring to be ready to take on the world as young adults, they need to build that confidence in them while growing up. It can come only when they are dealt with the same way as one would deal with their students—without any attachment! The main goal is to teach them life skills. Such adults make a much more contented, peaceful, and happy society which, in turn, makes the world a much happier place.

Choose the right tool, for the right trade!

pada vigrahaH:
शत्रोः अपि गुणाः वाच्याः दोषाः वाच्याः गुरोः अपि ।
śatroḥ api guṇāḥ vācyāḥ doṣāḥ vācyāḥ guroḥ api ।

सर्वदा सर्व-यत्नेन पुत्रे शिष्यवत् आचरेत् ॥
sarvadā sarva-yatnena putre śiṣyavat ācaret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shatrorapi guNaa vaachyaaH doShaa vaachyaa gurorapi ।
sarvadaa sarvayatnena putre shiShyavadaacharet ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

shatroH api guNaaH vaachyaaH doShaaH vaachyaaH guroH api ।

sarvadaa sarva-yatnena putre shiShyavat aacharet ॥

September 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
विषस्य विषयाणाञ्च दूरमत्यन्तमन्तरम् ।
उपभुक्तं विषं हन्ति विषयाः स्मरणादपि ॥


Transliteration:
viṣasya viṣayāṇāñca dūramatyantamantaram ।
upabhuktaṃ viṣaṃ hanti viṣayāḥ smaraṇādapi ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The disparity between 'viṣa' (poison) and 'viṣaya' (object of sense) is enormous. viṣa kills on consumption; viṣaya kills just by reminiscing.

Commentary:

In Sanskrit, the words for 'poison' and 'objects of sense', sound almost similar. Poison is called viṣa, while sense objects are called viṣaya. The disparity in pronunciation is, after all, only one syllable.  However, their attributes have a ginormous divergence! They couldn't differ from each other more.

Viṣa kills upon consumption. One can safely hold it, see it, hear about it, or sometimes smell it. It kills only when tasted. Viṣaya, on the contrary, kills at the very recollection or thought of it!!  For example, if one thinks of a piece of jewelry, he does not have to touch it, see it, hold it, or hear the details about it. The very thought can entrap the person in its grasp! If his vāsanas (inherent tendencies) are such, then his entire day, week, or years can go by, because he can get caught up in acquiring that piece of ornament. Such is the power of sense objects. Even without being physically present in front of the person, it can take him through a vicious trap with barely any outlet. Hence, the poet says, viṣayas are far more hazardous than poison even!!

Let not materials possess you in your quest to possess materials. Viṣaya is a distraction from true bliss! Find your way to your bliss by shunning sense pleasures.

pada vigrahaH:
विषस्य विषयाणां च दूरम् अत्यन्तम् अन्तरम् ।
viṣasya viṣayāṇāṃ ca dūram atyantam antaram ।

उपभुक्तं विषं हन्ति विषयाः स्मरणात् अपि ॥
upabhuktaṃ viṣaṃ hanti viṣayāḥ smaraṇāt api ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
viShasya viShayaaNaa~ncha dUramatyantamantaram ।
upabhuktaM viShaM hanti viShayaaH smaraNaadapi ॥

viShasya viShayaaNaaM cha dUram atyantam antaram ।

upabhuktaM viShaM hanti viShayaaH smaraNaat api ॥

September 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्यानुसारिणी लक्ष्मीः कीर्तिस्त्यागानुसारिणी ।
अभ्याससारिणी विद्या बुद्धिः कर्मानुसारिणी ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
satyānusāriṇī lakṣmīḥ kīrtistyāgānusāriṇī ।
abhyāsasāriṇī vidyā buddhiḥ karmānusāriṇī ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Wealth follows truthfulness; fame follows benefaction; knowledge follows practice; intellect follows implementation (action).

Commentary:

Where there is honesty, Goddess Lakṣmī (Goddess of wealth) resides. Goddess Lakṣmī is known for her affinity for honesty and cleanliness. Where there is no honesty, prosperity might seem to reside tentatively. But in the long run, such a person is certain to end up paying the price, one way or another. It is better to let prosperity take its course by being truthful because 'wealth follows honesty'.

Both the good people and the bad people make it to the newspaper. But which one becomes famous and which one becomes infamous? The morality and the liberality of actions of the good person take him to fame because 'fame follows benefaction'.

Knowledge is not a ready dish to be served up for the taking. It comes only through practicing over and over again. Learning and relearning until one has perfected the knowledge is the only way to go because 'knowledge follows practice'.

Intellect is something that comes along with one's implementation of his knowledge. For example, an architect can think of how to design a given space meticulously. That intellect comes to him due to constantly thinking in that module and working toward it. Hence, 'intellect follows implementation'.

No shortcuts. Take the right path, and reap the right results!

pada vigrahaH:
सत्य-अनुसारिणी लक्ष्मीः कीर्तिः त्याग-अनुसारिणी ।
satya-anusāriṇī lakṣmīḥ kīrtiḥ tyāga-anusāriṇī ।

अभ्यास-सारिणी विद्या बुद्धिः कर्म-अनुसारिणी ॥
abhyāsa-sāriṇī vidyā buddhiḥ karma-anusāriṇī ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satyaanusaariNI lakShmIH kIrtistyaagaanusaariNI ।
abhyaasasaariNI vidyaa buddhiH karmaanusaariNI ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

satya-anusaariNI lakShmIH kIrtiH tyaaga-anusaariNI ।

abhyaasa-saariNI vidyaa buddhiH karma-anusaariNI ॥

September 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शनैःशनैर्विनीयन्ते तर्जनैस्तोषणैरपि ।
नवा इवाश्वाः कुशलैः बालाश्चपलचेतसः ॥
- हरिहरसुभाषित


Transliteration:
śanaiḥśanairvinīyante tarjanaistoṣaṇairapi ।
navā ivāśvāḥ kuśalaiḥ bālāścapalacetasaḥ ॥
- hariharasubhāṣita

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Skillful people discipline their agile-minded children slowly and gradually through both reprimands and rewards, (just) as they would, (train) new horses.

Commentary:

Taming a new horse is a skillful job. The trainer handles the new horse with both love and sternness. He talks very lovingly to the horse while feeding and training it. But he gets very stern when the horse does not heed his commands too! It is an integral part of training a horse. A horse trained thus can be handled by anyone later, not just the trainer!

Almost the same rules apply when it comes to raising children. Their minds are agile and nimble by nature. If one has to discipline them, he can not always please them. Their demands might be far from being satiable.  In yielding to their whims and fancies, one cannot bring home a tiger because the child asked and will be upset otherwise!  Children too, must understand that every demand they put forth cannot be met. Showing them that they are loved and cared for is a very essential part of their upbringing. But hugs and kisses are for a later time when they are not being disciplined for their tantrums. 

Raising children is not a 'one rule for all situations' policy. Only then can the child grow up to be a confident adult who can not only take care of himself but also value his values. He will grow up to be a respectful human being, who also respects the thoughts and needs of those around him. Such children become easily compatible with most people later on in their lives. 

Isn't this the cherished treasure children should be left with?!

pada vigrahaH:
शनैः शनैः विनीयन्ते तर्जनैः तोषणैः अपि ।
śanaiḥ śanaiḥ vinīyante tarjanaiḥ toṣaṇaiḥ api ।

नवाः इव अश्वाः कुशलैः बालाः चपल-चेतसः ॥
navāḥ iva aśvāḥ kuśalaiḥ bālāḥ capala-cetasaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shanaiHshanairvinIyante tarjanaistoShaNairapi ।
navaa ivaashvaaH kushalaiH baalaashchapalachetasaH ॥
- hariharasubhaaShita

shanaiH shanaiH vinIyante tarjanaiH toShaNaiH api ।

navaaH iva ashvaaH kushalaiH baalaaH chapala-chetasaH ॥

September 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दुःखे दुःखाधिकान्पश्येत् सुखे पश्येत्सुखाधिकान् ।
आत्मानं शोकहर्षाभ्यां शत्रुभ्यामिव नार्पयेत् ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि


Transliteration:
duḥkhe duḥkhādhikānpaśyet sukhe paśyetsukhādhikān ।
ātmānaṃ śokaharṣābhyāṃ śatrubhyāmiva nārpayet ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

When in sorrow, see those who are in more sorrow; in times of pleasure, see those who have more pleasure. Just as one wouldn't offer himself to his enemies, do not give into pleasures and sorrows.

Commentary:

When in sorrow, one should reflect on someone in greater distress and remind themselves of this profound saying: "I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet." Such reflection can be humbling and bring perspective.

Likewise, when basking in riches and feeling proud of one's possessions, consider the humility of a king who has seen far greater wealth yet remains grounded. Let that thought check any budding arrogance.

When faced with an enemy, would one surrender and offer themselves as easy prey? Certainly not! So why yield to the enemy called mundane pains and pleasures, allowing it to carry us adrift? Always remember: this too shall pass. Pain or pleasure—both are fleeting, with their expiration dates. Once they fade, the tide inevitably turns. Why, then, get entangled in what is so impermanent?

An hour of pain can stretch endlessly, just as a day of pleasure can feel fleeting—depending on how we perceive it. The key to success lies in learning to master pain and pleasure rather than allowing them to master us. When we take charge, we control our lives; if not, life controls us.

pada vigrahaH:
दुःखे दुःख-अधिकान् पश्येत् सुखे पश्येत् सुख-अधिकान् ।
duḥkhe duḥkha-adhikān paśyet sukhe paśyet sukha-adhikān ।

आत्मानं शोक-हर्षाभ्यां शत्रुभ्याम् इव न अर्पयेत् ॥
ātmānaṃ śoka-harṣābhyāṃ śatrubhyām iva na arpayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
duHkhe duHkhaadhikaanpashyet sukhe pashyetsukhaadhikaan ।
aatmaanaM shokaharShaabhyaaM shatrubhyaamiva naarpayet ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

duHkhe duHkha-adhikaan pashyet sukhe pashyet sukha-adhikaan ।

aatmaanaM shoka-harShaabhyaaM shatrubhyaam iva na arpayet ॥

September 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
वैद्यानां शारदी माता पिता च कुसुमाकरः ।
यमदम्ष्ट्रा स्वसा प्रोक्ता हितभुक् मितभुक् रिपुः ॥

Transliteration:
vaidyānāṃ śāradī mātā pitā ca kusumākaraḥ ।
yamadamṣṭrā svasā proktā hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For a doctor, Autumn is the mother, and Spring is the father. Winter is said to be the sister. One who eats suitable and measured portions is his enemy!

Commentary:

When does one go to a doctor? When he is sick. A doctor earns his living because sick people come to him. People fall sick easily when the weather gets cold or fluctuates constantly, like in autumn, spring, and winter. That is pretty much the whole year.  We see that except during summer, people do get sick often!  

Kith and kin come to the aid of a person's prosperity. Likewise, winter, autumn, and spring assist a doctor in keeping his practice alive (by getting people sick)! Hence, the poet humorously says these seasons are like family to him.  

On the contrary, the poet proceeds to say that he who eats suitable food in limited portions is an enemy to a doctor! No matter what season, such a person will not require medical attention. Such a person will stay fit and healthy, and won't need to see a doctor often.  Isn't it enemies who curtail the growth and prosperity of another person! So, the poet quips that such a person is a doctor's enemy!

Moral of the story: Eat healthy and eat within limits.  This will help in staying away from a doctor.  It is the biggest open secret to good health! Simply, by being conscious and aware of what is going into the mouth, one can keep illnesses at bay.

He who has health has hope. He who has hope has everything! May everyone have everything!

pada vigrahaH:
वैद्यानां शारदी माता पिता च कुसुमाकरः ।
vaidyānāṃ śāradī mātā pitā ca kusumākaraḥ ।

यम-दम्ष्ट्रा स्वसा प्रोक्ता हितभुक् मितभुक् रिपुः ॥
yama-damṣṭrā svasā proktā hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vaidyaanaaM shaaradI maataa pitaa cha kusumaakaraH ।
yamadamShTraa svasaa proktaa hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuH ॥

vaidyaanaaM shaaradI maataa pitaa cha kusumaakaraH ।

yama-damShTraa svasaa proktaa hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuH ॥

September 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
रिक्तपाणिर्नपश्येत राजानं दैवतं गुरुम् ।
दैवज्ञं पुत्रकं मित्रं फलेन फलमादिशेत्॥
Transliteration:
riktapāṇirnapaśyeta rājānaṃ daivataṃ gurum ।
daivajñaṃ putrakaṃ mitraṃ phalena phalamādiśet॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not go empty-handed to see a king, God, a teacher, an astrologer, a child, or a friend. Invoke fruitfulness with fruit!

Commentary:

There is always a purpose behind visiting someone—it could be love, reverence, devotion, affection, or even fear. Without purpose, one wouldn’t endure the effort or inconvenience of a visit. To make such a visit meaningful, why not begin with a thoughtful gesture? For instance, bringing fruit to offer symbolizes goodwill and respect.

When visiting a king, a deity at a temple, a teacher, an astrologer, a child, or a friend, it is a gracious practice to bring something along. Arriving empty-handed to such places and occasions is often seen as unconventional and uncustomary. Bringing a token of thoughtfulness demonstrates that you cared enough to consider the person even before meeting them. This simple act of consideration can bring happiness to the recipient. Whether it’s a fruit, flower, dish, or snack, the gesture matters more than the gift itself.

A gift should be chosen with care—suiting the recipient—and offered with respect. A wise person values the love and intention behind a gift far more than its material value. Indeed, the way a gift is given carries greater significance than the gift itself.

When giving, give with thoughtfulness. When receiving, embrace the thoughtfulness of the giver!

pada vigrahaH:
रिक्त-पाणिः न पश्येत राजानं दैवतं गुरुम् ।
rikta-pāṇiḥ na paśyeta rājānaṃ daivataṃ gurum ।

दैवज्ञं पुत्रकं मित्रं फलेन फलम् आदिशेत् ॥
daivajñaṃ putrakaṃ mitraṃ phalena phalam ādiśet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
riktapaaNirnapashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।
daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalamaadishet ॥

rikta-paaNiH na pashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।

daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalam aadishet ॥