May 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दूरस्थोऽपि समीपस्थः यो यस्य हृदि वर्तते ।
यो यस्य हृदये नास्ति समीपस्थोऽपि दूरगः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
dūrastho'pi samīpasthaḥ yo yasya hṛdi vartate ।
yo yasya hṛdaye nāsti samīpastho'pi dūragaḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In whose heart one is, he is considered as 'near' even if he is far away. If (he is) not in the heart, even being close by (physically), he is distant.

Commentary:

One may sit with the same person, work with the same person, or even live with the same person all the time. If the well-being of the other is not in your heart, what is the purpose of that proximity?! If his company is not enjoyed and you are not looking forward to seeing the person again, then the closeness of distance is of no use.

On the contrary, a person may live on the other side of the planet but constantly be thinking of someone else and his welfare. He is always itching to see and talk to this other person. He has a certain level of comfort with the other person that he feels like sharing everything with him. In such a case, the physical distance is no factor at all! They are held together tightly by the bond they carry in their hearts. That carries more value than anything else.

The greatest distance between two people is—misunderstanding.  Geographical distance never separates people who care for one another. It is not physical proximity, but the emotional proximity that truly matters!

pada vigrahaH:
दूरस्थः अपि समीपस्थः यः यस्य हृदि वर्तते ।
dūrasthaḥ api samīpasthaḥ yaḥ yasya hṛdi vartate ।

यः यस्य हृदये न अस्ति समीपस्थः अपि दूरगः ॥
yaḥ yasya hṛdaye na asti samīpasthaḥ api dūragaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dUrastho.pi samIpasthaH yo yasya hRudi vartate ।
yo yasya hRudaye naasti samIpastho.pi dUragaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

dUrasthaH api samIpasthaH yaH yasya hRudi vartate ।

yaH yasya hRudaye na asti samIpasthaH api dUragaH ॥

May 30th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न कश्चिदपि जानाति किं कस्य श्वो भविष्यति ।
अतः श्वः करणीयानि कुर्यादद्यैव बुद्धिमान् ॥

Transliteration:
na kaścidapi jānāti kiṃ kasya śvo bhaviṣyati ।
ataḥ śvaḥ karaṇīyāni kuryādadyaiva buddhimān ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

No one knows what happens to whom tomorrow. Hence, the intelligent do tomorrow's task right now!

Commentary:

How many times has one said, "This job should be done 'now', but, I will do it later". When that 'later' comes, there will be a job assigned for that 'later', while the 'now' job is still pending. So, he will start working on the 'now' job. Something will come up in between, that needs immediate attention. The 'later' job is pushed 'further later' because the 'now' job needs more time as well. Then something else interesting comes up. When that 'further later comes', the 'now' job is still not done, the 'later' job is still pending and now the 'further later' job is added to the clutter! So on and so forth... What a mess this is! 

This will turn into a vicious cycle and become a constant battle against the clock! There is no peace of mind, then what to speak of the lack of productivity, and poor quality of work to top all these.

The wise understand this basic concept and never get themselves entrapped in such a situation. We can encounter numerous, unforeseen circumstances in our day-to-day lives. No one can predict what is in store for tomorrow. Hence, the wise keep themselves ahead. They do tomorrow's job today and today's job right now!

Be wise. Do not procrastinate! It is just a lazy man's apology which makes easy things difficult and difficult things even more difficult. 

pada vigrahaH:
न कश्चित् अपि जानाति किं कस्य श्वः भविष्यति ।
na kaścit api jānāti kiṃ kasya śvaḥ bhaviṣyati ।

अतः श्वः करणीयानि कुर्यात् अद्य एव बुद्धिमान् ॥
ataḥ śvaḥ karaṇīyāni kuryāt adya eva buddhimān ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na kashchidapi jaanaati kiM kasya shvo bhaviShyati ।
ataH shvaH karaNIyaani kuryaadadyaiva buddhimaan ॥

na kashchit api jaanaati kiM kasya shvaH bhaviShyati ।

ataH shvaH karaNIyaani kuryaat adya eva buddhimaan ॥

May 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
चत्वारो धनदायादाः धर्माग्निनृपतस्कराः ।
तेषां ज्येष्ठावमानेन त्रयः कुप्यन्ति सोदराः ॥
- त्रिशतीव्याख्या, नीति


Transliteration:
catvāro dhanadāyādāḥ dharmāgninṛpataskarāḥ ।
teṣāṃ jyeṣṭhāvamānena trayaḥ kupyanti sodarāḥ ॥
- triśatīvyākhyā, nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The four cousins of wealth are virtue, fire, king, and thief. If the older one, virtue, is disrespected, the other three brothers get livid!

Commentary:

The rivalry between cousins is very well established in the epic, Mahābhārata. When a cousin shows negligence towards one of the brothers, all the other brothers stand up against him until he is crushed to dust. The poet has beautifully extended this to compare money/wealth to the likes of Duryodhana. Virtue, fire, king, and thief (although only 4 here), are the Pāṇḍavas.  If the first brother (virtue) is disrespected by their cousin (wealth), then the rest of the brothers (fire, king, and thief) are enraged.  Together, they will destroy the evil brother and avenge the disrespect of their own brother (virtue). 

The metaphorical meaning here is, that if wealth were to be used for unjust purposes which disrespect or humiliate virtue, it would have to face the wrath of 3 types of calamities—fire, king, and thief! These 3 will be the reason for the downfall of wealth that is not used for performing good deeds. Such wealth can get destroyed:

• by fire or another such natural calamity; 
• a king or an official might annex it; or
• a thief might lay his hands on it. 

Either way, the owner of such wealth would not be able to keep his wealth!

Wealth, like happiness, is never attained when sought after directly. It comes as a by-product of performing virtuous deeds.  Wealth is worthless when the curtains are closing down, but righteousness delivers from death. Be righteous!

pada vigrahaH:
चत्वारः धन-दायादाः धर्म-अग्नि-नृप-तस्कराः ।
catvāraḥ dhana-dāyādāḥ dharma-agni-nṛpa-taskarāḥ ।

तेषां ज्येष्ठ-अवमानेन त्रयः कुप्यन्ति सोदराः ॥
teṣāṃ jyeṣṭha-avamānena trayaḥ kupyanti sodarāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
chatvaaro dhanadaayaadaaH dharmaagninRupataskaraaH ।
teShaaM jyeShThaavamaanena trayaH kupyanti sodaraaH ॥
- trishatIvyaakhyaa, nIti

chatvaaraH dhana-daayaadaaH dharma-agni-nRupa-taskaraaH ।

teShaaM jyeShTha-avamaanena trayaH kupyanti sodaraaH ॥

May 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदेवोपनतं दुःखात् सुखं तद्रसवत्तरम् ।
निर्वाणाय तरुच्छाया तप्‍तस्य हि विशेषतः ॥
- विक्रमोर्वशीय


Transliteration:
yadevopanataṃ duḥkhāt sukhaṃ tadrasavattaram ।
nirvāṇāya tarucchāyā tap‍tasya hi viśeṣataḥ ॥
- vikramorvaśīya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Attaining pleasure after being befallen with pain is more opulent. The shadow of a tree is more comforting to the one afflicted by the heat of the Sun.

Commentary:

What if a blind man suddenly got his sight?! How would a deaf person feel if he was able to hear?! Their joy would have no bounds! This is because they already have the experience of living without that specific ability.  When a normal person wakes up in the morning and sees the rising Sun in the skies, he wouldn't celebrate it with the same delight!

Hence, the poet says that pleasure is much more appealing to those who have been crestfallen with sorrow. Pleasure is much more enjoyable and valuable to those who have actually missed it. A sumptuous meal is much more satiating for a poor man who struggles to make ends meet than for someone who rolls in wealth.

Similarly, the shade of a tree is welcome to someone in the hot sun. Not that the shade is not comforting to others, but it is extra comforting to the one who is already scorched in the burning heat of the Sun.

Don't curse pain, thank it instead... When times change (which they always do), it will make pleasure so much more pleasurable!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् एव उपनतं दुःखात् सुखं तत् रसवत्तरम् ।
yat eva upanataṃ duḥkhāt sukhaṃ tat rasavattaram ।

निर्वाणाय तरोः छाया तप्‍तस्य हि विशेषतः ॥
nirvāṇāya taroḥ chāyā tap‍tasya hi viśeṣataḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadevopanataM duHkhaat sukhaM tadrasavattaram ।
nirvaaNaaya taruchChaayaa taptasya hi visheShataH ॥
- vikramorvashIya

yat eva upanataM duHkhaat sukhaM tat rasavattaram ।

nirvaaNaaya taroH Chaayaa tap^tasya hi visheShataH ॥

May 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुभाषितमयं द्रव्यं सङ्ग्रही न भवेन्नरः ।
स वाक्प्रस्तावयज्ञेषु कां प्रदास्यति दक्षिणाम् ॥

Transliteration:
subhāṣitamayaṃ dravyaṃ saṅgrahī na bhavennaraḥ ।
sa vākprastāvayajñeṣu kāṃ pradāsyati dakṣiṇām ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(If in case), one doesn't collect wealth in the form of 'subhaaShitaa's, what will he offer as 'dakṣiṇā' (offering with salutation), when a sacrifice (yajña) in the form of verbal discussions happens?

Commentary:
The very definition of a 'subhāṣita' is 'well spoken' or 'refined sayings'. They contain the essence of years of experience and eons of observations. They are offered to mankind in small, easily digestible, potent nugget forms. The task here is for everyone to accumulate wealth in the form of 'subhāṣitas'. Accumulating does not mean writing it down in a book or owning a book of subhāṣitas! This verse is essentially a call for people to learn, apply and practice the values in them.

When a yajña (sacrificial ritual) is undertaken, ghee (obtained from buttercream) is offered. Extending the same analogy, when a verbal discussion amidst intellectuals is taking place, one has to offer the cream of words. These are stored in the subhāṣitas! Therefore, one has to accrue subhāṣitas, so that he can offer the best during intellectual conversations.

Someone said, 'it is a good thing for a person to read a book of quotations.'  A book of subhāṣitas is a treasure house of quotations and beneficial maxims! So, acquire the habit of collecting the wealth of subhāṣitas.

pada vigrahaH:
सुभाषितमयं द्रव्यं सङ्ग्रही न भवेत् नरः ।
subhāṣitamayaṃ dravyaṃ saṅgrahī na bhavet naraḥ ।

सः वाक्-प्रस्ताव-यज्ञेषु कां प्रदास्यति दक्षिणाम् ॥
saḥ vāk-prastāva-yajñeṣu kāṃ pradāsyati dakṣiṇām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
subhaaShitamayaM dravyaM sa~ngrahI na bhavennaraH ।
sa vaakprastaavayaj~neShu kaaM pradaasyati dakShiNaam ॥

subhaaShitamayaM dravyaM sa~ngrahI na bhavet naraH ।

saH vaak-prastaava-yaj~neShu kaaM pradaasyati dakShiNaam ॥

May 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
देहदण्डनमात्रेण का मुक्तिरविवेकिनाम् ।
वल्मीकताडनादेव मृतः कुत्र महोरगः ॥
- गरुडपुराण


Transliteration:
dehadaṇḍanamātreṇa kā muktiravivekinām ।
valmīkatāḍanādeva mṛtaḥ kutra mahoragaḥ ॥
- garuḍapurāṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Only the imprudent think that they can achieve salvation by penalizing the body. How will patting the anthill kill the great snake?

Commentary:

Amongst many people, there is a practice of putting their bodies through rigorous rituals or actions. For example: fasting wherein the body is starved for a long time, or rigorous exercises to keep the body fit, etc. 

The poet says that only the imprudent people think those practices will liberate them and lead them to salvation. Those practices only help in purifying the body. But liberation is not attained by the body! It is the jīva (soul) that attains nirvāṇa (salvation). In that case, isn't it the jīva that should be cleansed?

The metaphor used by the poet is that of an anthill and a snake. A snake overtakes the anthill and makes it its home. If the intention is to kill the great serpent residing inside, it is not sufficient to tap and pat the outside of the anthill. The body is just like the anthill where the monstrous serpent (ego) resides. Enduring hardships of the body will not put a dent in the resolve of the ego. It is the ego that has to be eliminated to attain mukti (salvation).

Uproot the problem by digging up the roots rather than hacking at the leaves! 

pada vigrahaH:
देह-दण्डन मात्रेण का मुक्तिः अविवेकिनाम् ।
deha-daṇḍana mātreṇa kā muktiḥ avivekinām ।

वल्मीक-ताडनात् एव मृतः कुत्र महा उरगः ॥
valmīka-tāḍanāt eva mṛtaḥ kutra mahā uragaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dehadaNDanamaatreNa kaa muktiravivekinaam ।
valmIkataaDanaadeva mRutaH kutra mahoragaH ॥
- garuDapuraaNa

deha-daNDana maatreNa kaa muktiH avivekinaam ।

valmIka-taaDanaat eva mRutaH kutra mahaa uragaH ॥

May 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न कुलं वृत्तहीनस्य प्रमाणमिति मे मतिः ।
अन्तेष्वपि हि जातानां वृत्तमेव विशिष्यते ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व


Transliteration:
na kulaṃ vṛttahīnasya pramāṇamiti me matiḥ ।
anteṣvapi hi jātānāṃ vṛttameva viśiṣyate ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In my opinion, the attestation for a person of low character is not his clan. Even for someone born of a lowly lineage—his conduct is more distinctive.

Commentary:

People are constantly judged and scrutinized in society. They are judged on all grounds starting from their lineage to their attire.

But the poet clearly says, in his opinion any person must be classified mainly according to his conduct, irrespective of his birth in a family of higher or lower order (as per definitions of the society). 

Just because one is born into a reputed family (higher clan) it will not establish his character.  A person's conduct comes from his value base, not his birth. What he has learnt along the way and what he has come to respect says a lot more about him as a human being. These thoughts and values differentiate him from others as either good or bad.  That makes him a human of higher quality! 

Quality is—presence of values not absence of mistakes. Value the values in a person, not his background.

pada vigrahaH:
न कुलं वृत्त-हीनस्य प्रमाणम् इति मे मतिः ।
na kulaṃ vṛtta-hīnasya pramāṇam iti me matiḥ ।

अन्तेषु अपि हि जातानां वृत्तम् एव विशिष्यते ॥
anteṣu api hi jātānāṃ vṛttam eva viśiṣyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na kulaM vRuttahInasya pramaaNamiti me matiH ।
anteShvapi hi jaataanaaM vRuttameva vishiShyate ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

na kulaM vRutta-hInasya pramaaNam iti me matiH ।

anteShu api hi jaataanaaM vRuttam eva vishiShyate ॥

May 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धन्या बधिरा अन्धाः स एव जीवन्ति मानुषे लोके ।
न शृण्वन्ति पिशुनजनं खलानाम् ऋद्धिं न प्रेक्षन्ते ॥
- सप्‍तशती


Transliteration:
dhanyā badhirā andhāḥ sa eva jīvanti mānuṣe loke ।
na śṛṇvanti piśunajanaṃ khalānām ṛddhiṃ na prekṣante ॥
- sap‍taśatī

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Blessed are those people who live in this world as deaf and blind, for, they do not have to listen to malicious words of the slanderers or see the prosperity of the evil.

Commentary:

In today's world, where the rat race is on, everyone is scrambling to get somewhere or do something. It is generally seen that people are backbiting, backstabbing, being peevish, and speaking slanderous words to others. The poet opines that the deaf are blessed because their shortcoming, in reality, saves them some pain. They do not have to listen to such malicious words, fret about them, or think of devious plans to return a defaming word to the offender. They can keep their hearts and minds away from such things. Hence, they are blessed.

Time and again, the evil are seen prospering, in the direction they should not be! They are seen growing and climbing up the ladders of prosperity by using unfair means. For those who are honest, times seem to keep going bad. The poet says that the blind are a happier lot as they do not have to see the sad sight where evil people gain prosperity.

The only thing worse than blindness is—having sight but no vision. Kindness is the language the deaf can hear and the blind can see! Imbibe kindness.

pada vigrahaH:
धन्याः बधिराः अन्धाः सः एव जीवन्ति मानुषे लोके ।
dhanyāḥ badhirāḥ andhāḥ saḥ eva jīvanti mānuṣe loke ।

न शृण्वन्ति पिशुन जनं खलानाम् ऋद्धिं न प्रेक्षन्ते ॥
na śṛṇvanti piśuna janaṃ khalānām ṛddhiṃ na prekṣante ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dhanyaa badhiraa andhaaH sa eva jIvanti maanuShe loke ।
na shRuNvanti pishunajanaM khalaanaam RuddhiM na prekShante ॥
- saptashatI

dhanyaaH badhiraaH andhaaH saH eva jIvanti maanuShe loke ।

na shRuNvanti pishuna janaM khalaanaam RuddhiM na prekShante ॥

May 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न द्विषन्ति न याचन्ते परनिन्दां न कुर्वते ।
अनाहूता न चायान्ति तेनाश्मनोऽपि देवताः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
na dviṣanti na yācante paranindāṃ na kurvate ।
anāhūtā na cāyānti tenāśmano'pi devatāḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(They) do not hate, plead, offend others, or come uninvited.  Due to this, even stones are divine.

Commentary:

Extending from the fact that idols of deities are made from stone, the poet opines that the very reason for making these from stone is—their nature. By nature, the stones:

• do not develop strong likes or dislikes towards anyone or anything. They do not have 'rāga dvesha' (likes and dislikes).
• do not have any desires or attachments. They do not solicit others for favors or materials. They do not have 'moha' (delusionary attachment).
• do not hurl insulting and demeaning words at others. (This happens when one has a big ego. He feels hurt and insults others.) They do not have 'ahankāra' (egotism/self-pride).
• do not come uninvited (anāhūta)! (Well, a stone comes to a place only if someone brings it there. It won't come uninvited by itself anywhere!)

Hence, stones are like Gods because Gods have these traits. It is no surprise that idols are made from the very objects that emulate their characteristics!

Emanating divinity from oneself is as simple as not hating other beings, not begging or soliciting, not insulting others, and also not responding without being asked! 

pada vigrahaH:
न द्विषन्ति न याचन्ते पर-निन्दां न कुर्वते ।
na dviṣanti na yācante para-nindāṃ na kurvate ।

अनाहूताः न च आयान्ति तेन अश्मनः अपि देवताः ॥
anāhūtāḥ na ca āyānti tena aśmanaḥ api devatāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na dviShanti na yaachante paranindaaM na kurvate ।
anaahUtaa na chaayaanti tenaashmano.pi devataaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

na dviShanti na yaachante para-nindaaM na kurvate ।

anaahUtaaH na cha aayaanti tena ashmanaH api devataaH ॥

May 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दूरादतिथयो यस्य गृहमायान्ति निर्वृताः ।
गृहस्थः स तु विज्ञेयः शेषास्तु गृहरक्षिणाः ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि

Transliteration:
dūrādatithayo yasya gṛhamāyānti nirvṛtāḥ ।
gṛhasthaḥ sa tu vijñeyaḥ śeṣāstu gṛharakṣiṇāḥ ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He, to whose house guests come from near and far happily, should be considered a householder; the rest are just guards to their houses.

Commentary:
In Sanskrit, the word for guest is—अतिथि, atithi (अ-तिथि, a-tithi)—which means, one who doesn't have an appointment. In essence, he does not have a set तिथि (tithi - date and time) as to when he arrives. That means—he is welcome to come to the house at any given time without any prior notice.

The guest's comfort level depends on the way the host treats his guests. Someone can drop into another person's house and feel at ease, only if his relationship is a pleasant one. This depends on whether the host is being a good host or hostile! 

The poet says a householder is one to whose residence guests come and go cheerfully. If not, the owner of that house is as good as a guard to the house. There is no heart or emotions invested in running such a household. It is a sad situation if one is deemed as the front door guard of his own house!

Guests are considered as divine - 'अतिथि देवो भव' (atithi devo bhava). No one treats deities indifferently. The same applies to guests as well.

Someone once said, 'If it were not for guests, all houses would be graves'. They make the mundane routine of the house a little different and more lively. The ornaments of the house are the guests who visit frequently.

Be a householder, not a guard to your own house!

pada vigrahaH:
दूरात् अतिथयः यस्य गृहम् आयान्ति निर्वृताः ।
dūrāt atithayaḥ yasya gṛham āyānti nirvṛtāḥ ।

गृहस्थः स तु विज्ञेयः शेषाः तु गृहरक्षिणाः ॥
gṛhasthaḥ sa tu vijñeyaḥ śeṣāḥ tu gṛharakṣiṇāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dUraadatithayo yasya gRuhamaayaanti nirvRutaaH ।
gRuhasthaH sa tu vij~neyaH sheShaastu gRuharakShiNaaH ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

dUraat atithayaH yasya gRuham aayaanti nirvRutaaH ।

gRuhasthaH sa tu vij~neyaH sheShaaH tu gRuharakShiNaaH ॥

May 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कालक्रमेण जगतः परिवर्तमानाः ।
चक्रारपङ्क्तिरिव गच्छति भाग्यपङ्क्तिः ॥
- स्वप्नवासवदत्त

Transliteration:
kālakrameṇa jagataḥ parivartamānāḥ ।
cakrārapaṅktiriva gacchati bhāgyapaṅktiḥ ॥
- svapnavāsavadatta

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just as the rows of spokes of a wheel rise up and come down, so do the spokes of the wheel of fortune with changing times. 

Commentary:

When bogged down by hardships, do not lose heart. These bad times are not permanent. They are not here to stay. They have their own lifespan and at the end of it, they have to move out of one's life. When the going gets tough, the tough get going! Tough times never last, but tough people do!

At the same time, do not be overly proud during good times either. When all is well and life is good, be reminded that it will not stay either! It has its own lifespan and will pass on as well!! If one soars too high during good times, he can only fall harder. One who is grounded even in pleasant times is truly admirable. When the tide of change comes along, his feet are very much on the ground and he rides the tide easily. Why make the good times of today sad thoughts of tomorrow?

Tough times are interspersed so that one can truly appreciate the good times better!

If pain was simply pain, pleasure was simply pleasure—for him, they were no longer part of the cycle of suffering.

Like the spokes of a wheel, what goes up must come down. And, what has gone down must rise up! Take life in a stride. 

pada vigrahaH:
कालक्रमेण जगतः परिवर्तमानाः ।
kālakrameṇa jagataḥ parivartamānāḥ ।

चक्र-आर-पङ्क्तिः इव गच्छति भाग्य-पङ्क्तिः ॥
cakra-āra-paṅktiḥ iva gacchati bhāgya-paṅktiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaalakrameNa jagataH parivartamaanaaH ।
chakraarapa~nktiriva gachChati bhaagyapa~nktiH ॥
- svapnavaasavadatta

kaalakrameNa jagataH parivartamaanaaH ।

chakra-aarapa~nktiH iva gachChati bhaagya-pa~nktiH ॥

May 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
चराणामन्नमचराः दंष्ट्रिणामप्यदंष्ट्रिणः ।
अहस्ताश्च सहस्तानां शूराणां चैव भीरवः ॥
- मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
carāṇāmannamacarāḥ daṃṣṭriṇāmapyadaṃṣṭriṇaḥ ।
ahastāśca sahastānāṃ śūrāṇāṃ caiva bhīravaḥ ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Food for the mobile (deer, etc) are the immobile (grass, etc); for a predator (with sharp teeth, like lion, tiger, etc) are those without sharp teeth (deer, etc); hand-less (fruit, vegetables) are (food) for those with hands (humans); and for the brave, it is the coward.

Commentary:

The poet has deeply analyzed society and its functioning.  He makes a fair observation and quotes some timeless truths—Deer can go from one place to another, but they eat immobile grass. Carnivores, who have sharp teeth, eat deer which do not have sharp teeth. Humans have hands and their food is fruit and vegetable, which do not have hands. Similarly, the brave have courage and feed on those who do not have courage!

A tiger will never attack another tiger. A deer will never eat another deer. People are supposed to eat vegetarian. (That is a different topic altogether.) Even if they are eating meat today, it is because they have attained more power in their hands (in the form of ammunition). They can eat other animals too, simply because they have conquered their fear of the animal. Hence, if being harassed or bullied by a stronger person, one should not simply sympathize with himself and play the victim. That is why it is said, "He is not a victim of the bullier, but a victim of his own cowardice!" 

Whether we like it or not, this happens in the world more often than not! If one doesn't want to offer himself as food for the ones with more strength, he has only one choice—he must embrace courage himself. At the same time, strength is not for bullying others. It should be accompanied by compassion and ethics.

Do not be a coward and become food for bullies.  Also, people with real merit use their strength for the benefit of others and do not make others feel insignificant! 

pada vigrahaH:
चराणाम् अन्नम् अचराः दंष्ट्रिणाम् अपि अदंष्ट्रिणः ।
carāṇām annam acarāḥ daṃṣṭriṇām api adaṃṣṭriṇaḥ ।

अहस्ताः च सहस्तानां शूराणां च एव भीरवः ॥
ahastāḥ ca sahastānāṃ śūrāṇāṃ ca eva bhīravaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
charaaNaamannamacharaaH daMShTriNaamapyadaMShTriNaH ।
ahastaashcha sahastaanaaM shUraaNaaM chaiva bhIravaH ॥
- manusmRuti

charaaNaam annam acharaaH daMShTriNaam api adaMShTriNaH ।

ahastaaH cha sahastaanaaM shUraaNaaM cha eva bhIravaH ॥

May 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अकारणं रूपमकारणं कुलम् ।
महत्सु नीचेषु च कर्मैव शोभते ॥
- पञ्चरात्र


Transliteration:
akāraṇaṃ rūpamakāraṇaṃ kulam ।
mahatsu nīceṣu ca karmaiva śobhate ॥
- pañcarātra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Beauty is of no bearing, lineage is non-instrumental. Be it the mighty or the insignificant, their deeds are that which shine.

Commentary:

Beauty is only skin deep and has little importance, so is one's lineage or family background.  The beauty (or the lack of it) is God-given.  And one's lineage is also God-given—this is destiny at work!  When those aspects are beyond one's control, how can he expect to reap benefits based on them?!

What is in one's control, however, are his actions. Actions speak volumes about a person's character, illustrating his opinions, morals, and ethics.  It is one's actions that define his position in society among peers; one's actions determine if a person is noble or insignificant.

A man becomes great by deeds, not birth. Good deeds are never lost! Neither fire nor wind, neither death nor birth can erase them.  

pada vigrahaH:

अकारणं रूपम् अकारणं कुलम् ।
akāraṇaṃ rūpam akāraṇaṃ kulam ।

महत्सु नीचेषु च कर्म एव शोभते ॥
mahatsu nīceṣu ca karma eva śobhate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akaaraNaM rUpamakaaraNaM kulam ।
mahatsu nIcheShu cha karmaiva shobhate ॥
- pa~ncharaatra

akaaraNaM rUpam akaaraNaM kulam ।

mahatsu nIcheShu cha karma eva shobhate ॥

May 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नाराजके जनपदे स्वकं भवति कस्यचित् ।
मत्स्या इव नरा नित्यं भक्षयन्ति परस्परम् ॥
- रामायण, अयोध्याकाण्ड


Transliteration:
nārājake janapade svakaṃ bhavati kasyacit ।
matsyā iva narā nityaṃ bhakṣayanti parasparam ॥
- rāmāyaṇa, ayodhyākāṇḍa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In a nation with no leader, nothing is one's own. Just like fish, people constantly consume each other.

Commentary:

Anarchy is detrimental to society on many levels. It disrupts people's lives because a commoner cannot even lead a life of normalcy and feel safe under his own roof. There is nothing one can claim as his own in such a land. In that case, where are peace and prosperity?

When there is no commander-in-chief for a society, everyone has their own say. Only the rough and rugged survive in these scenarios. The milder ones—who make up the majority of the population—suffer unjustly. Just as the bigger fish in a tank prey upon the smaller fish, the rugged devour the weak in such a society.

Anarchy is the sure consequence of tyranny; for no power that is not limited by laws can ever be protected by them. Avoid such situations at all costs.

pada vigrahaH:
न अराजके जनपदे स्वकं भवति कस्यचित् ।
na arājake janapade svakaṃ bhavati kasyacit ।

मत्स्याः इव नराः नित्यं भक्षयन्ति परस्परम् ॥
matsyāḥ iva narāḥ nityaṃ bhakṣayanti parasparam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naaraajake janapade svakaM bhavati kasyachit ।
matsyaa iva naraa nityaM bhakShayanti parasparam ॥
- raamaayaNa, ayodhyaakaaNDa

na araajake janapade svakaM bhavati kasyachit ।

matsyaaH iva naraaH nityaM bhakShayanti parasparam ॥

May 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
भये वा यदि वा हर्षे संप्राप्ते यो विमर्शयेत् ।
कृत्यं न कुरुते वेगात् न स सन्तापमाप्नुयात् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
bhaye vā yadi vā harṣe saṃprāpte yo vimarśayet ।
kṛtyaṃ na kurute vegāt na sa santāpamāpnuyāt ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

When in fear or in happiness, he who thinks his actions through and does nothing in haste will not undergo sorrow (suffering).

Commentary:

Life is a cycle. There are good times and bad times. Some bring excessive joy, while other times bring fear. In either circumstance, chances are, one might react hastily. When one responds hurriedly, he is bound to make mistakes that he will regret later. However, sped arrows and spoken words can never be taken back. He would have already caused damage, be it intentional or unintentional. When such actions are set in motion, chances are that the other person will retaliate with more force, leading to an unending vicious cycle.

The poet in this verse opines that—he who thinks his actions through, will save some suffering/regrets for himself and for others around him. Thoughtless actions have caused great harm and history is proof for that. Thoughtfulness about one's own actions is the winning way!

People of thoughtless actions are always surprised by consequences.  We must remember that construction is a slow and laborious task that takes years whereas destruction can occur from one thoughtless action in a minute. 

Think your actions through...

pada vigrahaH:
भये वा यदि वा हर्षे संप्राप्ते यः विमर्शयेत् ।
bhaye vā yadi vā harṣe saṃprāpte yaḥ vimarśayet ।

कृत्यं न कुरुते वेगात् न स सन्तापम् आप्नुयात् ॥
kṛtyaṃ na kurute vegāt na sa santāpam āpnuyāt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
bhaye vaa yadi vaa harShe saMpraapte yo vimarshayet ।
kRutyaM na kurute vegaat na sa santaapamaapnuyaat ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

bhaye vaa yadi vaa harShe saMpraapte yaH vimarshayet ।

kRutyaM na kurute vegaat na sa santaapam aapnuyaat ॥

May 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
एकः, क्षमावतां दोषः द्वितीयो नोपपद्यते ।
यदेनं क्षमया युक्तम् अशक्तं मन्यते जनः ॥
- आपस्तम्बस्मृति


Transliteration:
ekaḥ, kṣamāvatāṃ doṣaḥ dvitīyo nopapadyate ।
yadenaṃ kṣamayā yuktam aśaktaṃ manyate janaḥ ॥
- āpastambasmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is only one fault about the patient (people), a second is non-existent. If they are conjoined with patience, people think they are incapable.

Commentary:

Genius is nothing but a great aptitude for patience.

Patience is a companion of wisdom.

Patience is also a form of action!

Despite all these sayings, patience often gets mistaken. Those who exhibit patience, are presumed to be incompetent or unfit. Quite contrary to this misnomer, it takes a lot of courage and willpower to be patient! If one is patient, it is not because he is incapable of facing a challenge. Reacting with rage instantaneously is the easiest thing to do.

The poet says patience has no downside—except that it gives a misconception to others as a weakness. Keeping cool and being patient gives one everything (now or in the future). Well, it takes patience to reap the benefits of patience as well!

One moment of patience may ward off great disaster. One moment of impatience may ruin a whole life!  Be patient.  

Patience isn't a sign of weakness, anger is! 

pada vigrahaH:
एकः, क्षमावतां दोषः द्वितीयः न उपपद्यते ।
ekaḥ, kṣamāvatāṃ doṣaḥ dvitīyaḥ na upapadyate ।

यत् एनं क्षमया युक्तम् अशक्तं मन्यते जनः ॥
yat enaṃ kṣamayā yuktam aśaktaṃ manyate janaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ekaH, kShamaavataaM doShaH dvitIyo nopapadyate ।
yadenaM kShamayaa yuktam ashaktaM manyate janaH ॥
- aapastambasmRuti

ekaH, kShamaavataaM doShaH dvitIyaH na upapadyate ।

yat enaM kShamayaa yuktam ashaktaM manyate janaH ॥

May 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यन्मातापितरौ वृत्तं तनये कुरुतः सदा ।
न सुप्रतिकारं तत्तु मात्रा पित्रा च यत्कृतम् ॥
- रामायण, अयोध्याकाण्ड

Transliteration:
yanmātāpitarau vṛttaṃ tanaye kurutaḥ sadā ।
na supratikāraṃ tattu mātrā pitrā ca yatkṛtam ॥
- rāmāyaṇa, ayodhyākāṇḍa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The deeds (that are) constantly done by mother and father for their children... there is no requital for those actions performed by the parents.

Commentary:

Parents work tirelessly for the welfare of their children. From the moment they become aware of their status as parents-to-be, they constantly think of nothing else but the well-being of their child/children and work tirelessly in their own ways to make the child as good an individual as possible. Every parent wants their children to be better than themself. In fact, they rejoice when their offspring surpasses them in their achievements (पुत्रादिच्छेत् पराजयम्, putrādicchet parājayam—parents desire to be surpassed by their children).

No amount of wealth or money can outweigh the parents' dedication to their children. There is nothing in this world that one can give to his parents to offset their efforts! The one meager effort he can make is: that he can try and emulate all the values his parents tried to imbibe in him. Parents are happiest when their children live worthy lives!

Like they say, to understand a parent's love, one must raise children himself. Then it becomes evident to him that—there is no retribution to it!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् माता-पितरौ वृत्तं तनये कुरुतः सदा ।
yat mātā-pitarau vṛttaṃ tanaye kurutaḥ sadā ।

न सुप्रतिकारं तत् तु मात्रा पित्रा च यत् कृतम् ॥
na supratikāraṃ tat tu mātrā pitrā ca yat kṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yanmaataapitarau vRuttaM tanaye kurutaH sadaa ।
na supratikaaraM tattu maatraa pitraa cha yatkRutam ॥
- raamaayaNa, ayodhyaakaaNDa

yat maataa-pitarau vRuttaM tanaye kurutaH sadaa ।

na supratikaaraM tat tu maatraa pitraa cha yat kRutam ॥

May 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गते शोको न कर्तव्यः भविष्यं नैव चिन्तयेत् ।
वर्तमानेन कालेन प्रवर्तन्ते विचक्षणाः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
gate śoko na kartavyaḥ bhaviṣyaṃ naiva cintayet ।
vartamānena kālena pravartante vicakṣaṇāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not anguish about the past, do not think about the future. The intelligent preside only in the present time.

Commentary:

There is no point crying over spilt milk!

Also, do not count the chickens before the eggs hatch either!!

Past deeds are happened and gone. They are finished and must be forgotten. No matter how much one thinks about them or frets about them, there is nothing that he can do to erase or change what has already happened.

The future is not here yet. Man proposes God disposes! The outcome of the future is in nobody's hands. So, what is the point of wasting the present time worrying about the future?!

Shouldn't we focus our energy on our current actions and leave the future result to, well..., the future?!

The past is history, the future is a mystery, and today is a gift. Hence it is called the present!  Live in the present—it makes it easier to handle the past and brightens the prospects of the future as well. 

pada vigrahaH:
गते शोकः न कर्तव्यः भविष्यं न एव चिन्तयेत् ।
gate śokaḥ na kartavyaḥ bhaviṣyaṃ na eva cintayet ।

वर्तमानेन कालेन प्रवर्तन्ते विचक्षणाः ॥
vartamānena kālena pravartante vicakṣaṇāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gate shoko na kartavyaH bhaviShyaM naiva chintayet ।
vartamaanena kaalena pravartante vichakShaNaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

gate shokaH na kartavyaH bhaviShyaM na eva chintayet ।

vartamaanena kaalena pravartante vichakShaNaaH ॥

May 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
ऐक्यं बलं समाजस्य तदभावे स दुर्बलः ।
तस्मादैक्यं प्रशंसन्ति दृढं राष्ट्रहितैशिणः ॥

Transliteration:
aikyaṃ balaṃ samājasya tadabhāve sa durbalaḥ ।
tasmādaikyaṃ praśaṃsanti dṛḍhaṃ rāṣṭrahitaiśiṇaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Unity is the strength of society; scarcity of which makes it weak. Hence, the well-wishers of the empires have upheld unity.

Commentary:

There is immense strength in unity. When a society is unified in one force, it becomes very difficult for an outsider to penetrate or infiltrate into their ecosystem. When there are divisions in this unifying force, the whole society and the empire/nation, in turn, become vulnerable. Hence, the well-wishers of nations have sung praises of unity. It has been a vital force during the freedom struggles of many countries.

If the same principle is brought down to a family unit, it still holds good! Unity in a family keeps the family together and this, in turn, boosts the confidence/faith of each individual person.

At workplaces, 'team spirit' is regarded highly and people who possess it are considered 'easy to work with'. When there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. 

It is even seen in the story of the 'Pigeons and the Hunter' where the birds caught in a hunter's net could all escape easily because of unity.

The famous quote, 'united we stand, divided we fall' holds good at all times, in all eras, and at all levels.  Remember, 'Individually we are one drop.  Together, we are an ocean!'

pada vigrahaH:
ऐक्यं बलं समाजस्य तत् अभावे सः दुर्बलः ।
aikyaṃ balaṃ samājasya tat abhāve saḥ durbalaḥ ।

तस्मात् ऐक्यं प्रशंसन्ति दृढं राष्ट्र-हितैशिणः ॥
tasmāt aikyaṃ praśaṃsanti dṛḍhaṃ rāṣṭra-hitaiśiṇaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aikyaM balaM samaajasya tadabhaave sa durbalaH ।
tasmaadaikyaM prashaMsanti dRuDhaM raaShTrahitaishiNaH ॥

aikyaM balaM samaajasya tat abhaave saH durbalaH ।

tasmaat aikyaM prashaMsanti dRuDhaM raaShTra-hitaishiNaH ॥

May 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कार्यार्थी भजते लोके यावत् कार्यं न सिध्यति ।
उत्तीर्णे च परे पारे नौकायाः किं प्रयोजनम् ॥

Transliteration:
kāryārthī bhajate loke yāvat kāryaṃ na sidhyati ।
uttīrṇe ca pare pāre naukāyāḥ kiṃ prayojanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In this world, people turn to one in times of need, only as long as the purpose is not achieved. After crossing to the other bank, what is the use of a boat?

Commentary:

It is experienced by one and all, the feeling of being 'used' by near and dear ones for their own benefit! It is easy to get bogged down by such experiences. But if we think about it, in reality, we probably have done the same to someone in the past.  It is just that we decide to blind ourselves under such circumstances.

The poet says that one justifies his actions thus: "I have no use for a boat after crossing the river. It is not necessary that I have an agenda or motive against the boat itself. But that doesn't mean I will carry the boat 'on my head' so that the feelings of the boat don't get hurt!"

Sometimes, it may be as simple as 'their purpose was served and they moved on!'  People come into one's life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When the purpose is served, it is time to move on. It is the law of nature that anything is sought after for only as long as there is a need for it. It is prudent to move on after that, without any hard feelings. There are better times to come and more people to meet.

Take life in stride.  Beware of 'users' and don't get bogged down by these situations.

pada vigrahaH:
कार्यार्थी भजते लोके यावत् कार्यं न सिध्यति ।
kāryārthī bhajate loke yāvat kāryaṃ na sidhyati ।

उत्तीर्णे च परे पारे नौकायाः किं प्रयोजनम् ॥
uttīrṇe ca pare pāre naukāyāḥ kiṃ prayojanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaaryaarthI bhajate loke yaavat kaaryaM na sidhyati ।
uttIrNe cha pare paare naukaayaaH kiM prayojanam ॥

kaaryaarthI bhajate loke yaavat kaaryaM na sidhyati ।

uttIrNe cha pare paare naukaayaaH kiM prayojanam ॥

May 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गर्वाय परपीडायै दुर्जनस्य धनं बलम् ।
सुजनस्य तु दानाय रक्षणाय च ते सदा ॥

Transliteration:
garvāya parapīḍāyai durjanasya dhanaṃ balam ।
sujanasya tu dānāya rakṣaṇāya ca te sadā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The wealth and power of an evildoer are for vanity and afflicting others. In a good person, they are always (used) for—giving, and protecting.

Commentary:

Sins are not committed by—wealth or power. The person in charge of those possessions does. His attitude, priorities, and how he puts them to use is what changes the course.

Wealth in the hands of an evildoer becomes a tool to boost his pride and arrogance. Authority and power given to such a person are misused to inflict harm on people around him. He will be so consumed by his own selfish and evil motives that he can't see beyond himself.

The same exact wealth, in the hands of a noble and pious individual, would be put to use for giving others, for the betterment of society. A high position given to him would be used for the protection and prosperity of others.

The sad truth is that most evil is done by people who can't make up their minds whether to be good or evil. The function of wisdom is to discriminate between good and evil. Surely, humans have an inherent disposition to extract good out of even evil. Let's make sure that this inborn tendency gets enough room to grow and enhance the quality of living for everyone.  

True wealth is not of the pocket but of the heart and the mind.  Similarly, power is not of the muscle/position, it too, is of the mind and the heart.  

pada vigrahaH:
गर्वाय पर-पीडायै दुर्जनस्य धनं बलम् ।
garvāya para-pīḍāyai durjanasya dhanaṃ balam ।

सुजनस्य तु दानाय रक्षणाय च ते सदा ॥
sujanasya tu dānāya rakṣaṇāya ca te sadā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
garvaaya parapIDaayai durjanasya dhanaM balam ।
sujanasya tu daanaaya rakShaNaaya cha te sadaa ॥

garvaaya para-pIDaayai durjanasya dhanaM balam ।

sujanasya tu daanaaya rakShaNaaya cha te sadaa ॥

May 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वयं पञ्चमुखः पुत्रौ गजाननषडाननौ ।
दिगम्बरः कथं जीवेत् अन्नपूर्णा न चेद्गृहे ॥
Transliteration:
svayaṃ pañcamukhaḥ putrau gajānanaṣaḍānanau ।
digambaraḥ kathaṃ jīvet annapūrṇā na cedgṛhe ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He himself has 5 faces, his children are 'elephant faced' (Gajānana - Gaṇeśa) and '6 faced' (Ṣaḍānana - Ṣaṇmukha). How would Lord Shiva survive if mother Annapūrṇā was not at home?

Commentary:

This is a not only a beautiful and humorous verse, but it also upholds and epitomizes the role of a mother in the family!

Lord Shiva has 5 faces himself. Among the 2 sons he has, one is elephant faced and the other has 6 faces! Just imagine a dad feeding all those mouths! The poet says, this is not possible for a dad, even if he is God! :) Such is the role of a mother. She is the 'one and only' and is hence irreplaceable!! She toils tirelessly day in and day out, putting her likes and dislikes aside, placing her family as her highest priority. Whether she gets any credit or not, she does her duties constantly. The only remuneration she expects is for her family to fare well! Her dedication and sincerity towards her family are unmatched. No words are enough to say about her semblance and presence in making a house a home.

Mothers hold the hands of their children for a short time, but their hearts forever!

The sweetest sounds given to mortals are heard in 'mother', 'home', and 'heaven!'

Gratitude to mothers now and always!

P.S.: One tradition perceives Shiva as īśāna (pañca-vaktra atrinetra), that is, Shiva combines in him: tatpuruṣa, vāmadeva, aghora, sadyojāta and īśāna, representing: wind, water, fire, creative function and space respectively. Thus Shiva's five heads manifest the five cosmic elements and functions.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वयं पञ्चमुखः पुत्रौ गजानन-षडाननौ ।
svayaṃ pañcamukhaḥ putrau gajānana-ṣaḍānanau ।

दिगम्बरः कथं जीवेत् अन्नपूर्णा न चेत् गृहे ॥
digambaraḥ kathaṃ jīvet annapūrṇā na cet gṛhe ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svayaM pa~nchamukhaH putrau gajaananaShaDaananau ।
digambaraH kathaM jIvet annapUrNaa na chedgRuhe ॥

svayaM pa~nchamukhaH putrau gajaanana-ShaDaananau ।

digambaraH kathaM jIvet annapUrNaa na chet gRuhe ॥

May 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मूर्खस्य पञ्चचिन्हानि गर्वो दुर्वचनं तथा ।
क्रोधश्च दृढवादश्च परवाक्येष्वनादरः ॥

Transliteration:
mūrkhasya pañcacinhāni garvo durvacanaṃ tathā ।
krodhaśca dṛḍhavādaśca paravākyeṣvanādaraḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Five signs of foolish people are—vanity, despicable words, anger, relentless argument, and lack of respect for others' words.

Commentary:

One's acumen and intelligence are gauged through his conduct and mannerisms. This poet opines that there are five stark symptoms of a fool—

• Arrogance is a trait of the ignorant. It diminishes wisdom. It forces one to falter, make mistakes, and feeds the ego.
• Using obnoxious and despicable words is not only disrespectful to others, but it also brings down one's stature. Being hurtful and offensive to others is not warranted under any circumstance.
• Anger takes one to trouble, pride keeps him there. The wise do not opt for trouble, only a dunce does.
• Intellectual conversations and an exchange of ideas are pro-active towards growth and learning. However, a dunce finds it amusing to relentlessly argue on a baseless point! He keeps insisting on his viewpoint without purpose or proper evidence.
• It is not enough if one expresses his opinion. He needs to heed the opinions of others too. Showing negligence or disrespect towards others is a screaming symbol of idiotism.

Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something!  Choose to be wise!!

pada vigrahaH:
मूर्खस्य पञ्च चिन्हानि गर्वः दुर्वचनं तथा ।
mūrkhasya pañca cinhāni garvaḥ durvacanaṃ tathā ।

क्रोधः च दृढवादः च पर-वाक्येषु अनादरः ॥
krodhaḥ ca dṛḍhavādaḥ ca para-vākyeṣu anādaraḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
mUrkhasya pa~nchachinhaani garvo durvachanaM tathaa ।
krodhashcha dRuDhavaadashcha paravaakyeShvanaadaraH ॥

mUrkhasya pa~ncha chinhaani garvaH durvachanaM tathaa ।

krodhaH cha dRuDhavaadaH cha para-vaakyeShu anaadaraH ॥

May 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
विद्वत्वं च नृपत्वं च नैव तुल्यं कदाचन ।
स्वदेशे पूज्यते राजा विद्वान् सर्वत्र पूज्यते ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
vidvatvaṃ ca nṛpatvaṃ ca naiva tulyaṃ kadācana ।
svadeśe pūjyate rājā vidvān sarvatra pūjyate ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Scholarship and kingship can never be equated. A king is respected in his own land, a scholar is revered everywhere.

Commentary:

A king is the Lord of his own land or country. All his subjects respect him for the office he holds. But that only goes so far. Beyond his land, he cannot execute his authority.

Knowledge and scholarship have no boundaries of any kind. Knowledge is the universal truth; it holds good at all times and on all lands. Therefore, a scholar is revered everywhere.

Gaining knowledge is much more beneficial than conquering kingdoms!

pada vigrahaH:
विद्वत्वं च नृपत्वं च न एव तुल्यं कदाचन ।
vidvatvaṃ ca nṛpatvaṃ ca na eva tulyaṃ kadācana ।

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

Alternate Transliteration:
vidvatvaM cha nRupatvaM cha naiva tulyaM kadaachana ।
svadeshe pUjyate raajaa vidvaan sarvatra pUjyate ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

vidvatvaM cha nRupatvaM cha na eva tulyaM kadaachana ।

svadeshe pUjyate raajaa vidvaan sarvatra pUjyate ॥

May 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उष्ट्राणां च विवाहेषु गीतं गायन्ति गर्दभाः ।
परस्परं प्रशंसन्ति अहो रूपमहो ध्वनिः ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका


Transliteration:
uṣṭrāṇāṃ ca vivāheṣu gītaṃ gāyanti gardabhāḥ ।
parasparaṃ praśaṃsanti aho rūpamaho dhvaniḥ ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In the wedding of camels, donkeys sing the song. They both praise each other, 'Ah! the form!', 'ah! the voice!'

Commentary:

The camel is an animal that is not particularly popular for its grace and form. Similarly, a donkey is an animal whose braying is not exactly famous for melody. But this scene is of the wedding of camels where the donkeys are singing in merry! As if this weren't enough, they are both praising each other for their beauty and tone respectively! :)

This is a great imaginary scenario that works as an example of false praise. When one praises, it does not warrant the person praised to let it get to his head. 

Just because the camels said that the donkeys sang wonderfully, it is not reality. It is also important to note that, only the finest can recognize finesse. A donkey is not really the best candidate to identify beauty to begin with.

None are more taken by flattery than the proud, who wish to be the best, but are not. False praise is worse than no praise at all.  Beware of flatterers and watch your own reactions to such fawning and eyewash compliments!  Wise people would rather benefit from constructive criticism than be ruined by false praise. 

pada vigrahaH:
उष्ट्राणां च विवाहेषु गीतं गायन्ति गर्दभाः ।
uṣṭrāṇāṃ ca vivāheṣu gītaṃ gāyanti gardabhāḥ ।

परस्परं प्रशंसन्ति अहो रूपम् अहो ध्वनिः ॥
parasparaṃ praśaṃsanti aho rūpam aho dhvaniḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
uShTraaNaaM cha vivaaheShu gItaM gaayanti gardabhaaH ।
parasparaM prashaMsanti aho rUpamaho dhvaniH ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

uShTraaNaaM cha vivaaheShu gItaM gaayanti gardabhaaH ।

parasparaM prashamsanti aho rUpam aho dhvaniH ॥

May 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दीपो भक्षयते ध्वान्तं कज्जलञ्च प्रसूयते ।
यदन्नं भक्षयेन्नित्यं जायते तादृशी प्रजाः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
dīpo bhakṣayate dhvāntaṃ kajjalañca prasūyate ।
yadannaṃ bhakṣayennityaṃ jāyate tādṛśī prajāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A lamp devours darkness and emits (dark) soot. (Similarly), whatever food is consumed regularly, such a progeny is born.

Commentary:

When a lamp is lit to eradicate darkness, it will certainly light up the place. However, it also gives out dark black soot, as if an indication of the darkness it consumed. This metaphor is used to illustrate that just as one's food habits are, such will be the offspring born. The food one consumes regularly has a lot to say about his attitudes and tendencies. One's food habits dictate the temperament of not just himself, but his offspring as well!

It is said in the Vedas, 'अन्नात् पुरुषः' (annāt puruṣaḥ) which means that the potential energy in the food transforms into living energy in the being.  This is said in the Vedas again and again, 'अन्नाद्वै प्राणः' (annādvai prāṇaḥ).  Because of food, the vital energies and bodily functions shall remain!  When such is the case, it means—what one eats is directly what one is!!  It is not an indirect relationship.  

One's temperament and even predicaments are all influenced by the food he consumes.  When one's attributes are in a certain way, when he has children, they will be the very reflection of him.  How can it be otherwise?!!

Be mindful of your habits. Treat food as medicine. 

As you sow, so shall you reap.  As you eat, so is your progeny.

pada vigrahaH:
दीपः भक्षयते ध्वान्तं कज्जलं च प्रसूयते ।
dīpaḥ bhakṣayate dhvāntaṃ kajjalaṃ ca prasūyate ।

यत् अन्नं भक्षयेत् नित्यं जायते तादृशी प्रजाः ॥
yat annaṃ bhakṣayet nityaṃ jāyate tādṛśī prajāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
deepo bhakShayate dhvaantaM kajjala~ncha prasUyate ।
yadannaM bhakShayennityaM jaayate taadRushI prajaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

deepaH bhakShayate dhvaantaM kajjalaM cha prasUyate ।

yat annaM bhakShayet nityaM jaayate taadRushI prajaaH ॥

May 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अग्नौ दग्धं जले मग्नं हृतं तस्करपार्थिवैः ।
तत्सर्वं दानमित्याहुः यदि क्लैब्यं न भाषते ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
agnau dagdhaṃ jale magnaṃ hṛtaṃ taskarapārthivaiḥ ।
tatsarvaṃ dānamityāhuḥ yadi klaibyaṃ na bhāṣate ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Anything) burnt in a fire, drowned in water, snatched by thieves or kings—all these would be called 'dāna' (giving), only if (one) doesn't speak woefully of it.

Commentary:

It is all in the attitude!

When an act of giving is performed, it is debited into one's account of virtues immediately. 'Giving' is not necessarily what is donated. The poet says that even something lost to natural calamities like fire and water can be accounted for sacrifice if only the approach is right. 

When possessions are stolen or seized by the kings or law enforcers (could be as tax or in any other form), when handled gracefully, can be accredited as dānam too.

When material possessions are lost for any reason, if one doesn't lament about it and instead thinks that it was not meant to be his anymore, he gains more than he loses (in the form of virtues)! On the contrary, even if one gives generous amounts to charity but is emotionally attached to the object, his act of giving becomes futile. Hence, attitude is what defines everything in the world.

Let bygones be bygones. Whatever happened, happened.  Dwelling on it won't change a thing! It is better to let go and reclaim peace of mind. Better times are yet to come!

pada vigrahaH:
अग्नौ दग्धं जले मग्नं हृतं तस्कर-पार्थिवैः ।
agnau dagdhaṃ jale magnaṃ hṛtaṃ taskara-pārthivaiḥ ।

तत् सर्वं दानम् इति आहुः यदि क्लैब्यं न भाषते ॥
tat sarvaṃ dānam iti āhuḥ yadi klaibyaṃ na bhāṣate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
agnau dagdhaM jale magnaM hRutaM taskarapaarthivaiH ।
tatsarvaM daanamityaahuH yadi klaibyaM na bhaaShate ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

agnau dagdhaM jale magnaM hRutaM taskara-paarthivaiH ।

tat sarvaM daanam iti aahuH yadi klaibyaM na bhaaShate ॥

May 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनादायी व्ययं कुर्यात् असहायी रणप्रियः ।
आतुरः सर्वभक्षी च नरः शीघ्रं विनश्यति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
anādāyī vyayaṃ kuryāt asahāyī raṇapriyaḥ ।
āturaḥ sarvabhakṣī ca naraḥ śīghraṃ vinaśyati ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Devoid of income, (yet) a spendthrift; helpless, (but) fond of picking fights; diseased, (yet) eating (anything and) everything—such a person perishes soon.

Commentary:

1. Stretch your feet only as far as the bed. Do not live beyond your means. There are many such sayings which profess the same value. Be judicious in spending! Especially for those whose income is challenged. It is not judicious to spend a dollar when one is finding it hard to dish out even a penny. He will never prosper.

2. It is not wise to pick a fight in the first place. Still, if one wants to pick a fight, he has to pick someone his own size. It is not prudent to start a tiff with someone much bigger than himself, both in size and stature and have no backup help. He will never win.

3. You become what you eat. Eating habits define a person's physical and emotional health. If food is treated as medicine to sustain the body, he can be in good health. One won't take medicine unnecessarily nor more than the recommended dosage, for the specific illness. The same is true with food. Especially when one is in bad health, it is not wise to eat delicacies to satiate his palate. His health will only deteriorate.

People with any of these 3 temperaments perish faster than they should or would. Beware, take care!

pada vigrahaH:

अनादायी व्ययं कुर्यात् असहायी रण-प्रियः ।
anādāyī vyayaṃ kuryāt asahāyī raṇa-priyaḥ ।

आतुरः सर्व-भक्षी च नरः शीघ्रं विनश्यति ॥
āturaḥ sarva-bhakṣī ca naraḥ śīghraṃ vinaśyati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anaadaayI vyayaM kuryaat asahaayI raNapriyaH ।
aaturaH sarvabhakShI cha naraH shIghraM vinashyati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

anaadaayI vyayaM kuryaat asahaayI raNa-priyaH ।

aaturaH sarva-bhakShI cha naraH shIghraM vinashyati ॥

May 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अर्थानामर्जनं कार्यं वर्धनं रक्षणं तथा ।
भक्ष्यमाणो निरादायः सुमेरुरपि हीयते ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration: 
arthānāmarjanaṃ kāryaṃ vardhanaṃ rakṣaṇaṃ tathā ।
bhakṣyamāṇo nirādāyaḥ sumerurapi hīyate ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Earning wealth is a purpose, flourishing and protecting it too! (If) being eaten without incoming revenue, even the 'meru' mountain will shrink (diminish).

Commentary:

Money or wealth is like any other resource, limited and exhaustible. As much as earning wealth is a responsibility, so is protecting and flourishing it! Money is of no use sitting in a safe locker. It has to be put to use and circulated for the benefit of society.

At the same time, just because one inherited a royal fortune, doesn't mean he gets to laze around and plunder the stash. If nothing is put in, and constantly drawn out, it must be no surprise that everything will get squandered in no time. Even if his inheritance is as humongous as the Meru mountain, it is bound to dissolve one day or the other.

One should strive to earn their own living rather than rely on someone else's earnings, or else one may lead to being labeled a freeloader.

pada vigrahaH:

अर्थानाम् अर्जनं कार्यं वर्धनं रक्षणं तथा ।
arthānām arjanaṃ kāryaṃ vardhanaṃ rakṣaṇaṃ tathā ।

भक्ष्यमाणः निरादायः सुमेरुः अपि हीयते ॥
bhakṣyamāṇaḥ nirādāyaḥ sumeruḥ api hīyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
arthaanaamarjanaM kaaryaM vardhanaM rakShaNaM tathaa ।
bhakShyamaaNo niraadaayaH sumerurapi hIyate ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

arthaanaam arjanaM kaaryaM vardhanaM rakShaNaM tathaa ।

bhakShyamaaNaH niraadaayaH sumeruH api hIyate ॥

May 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
लोभमूलानि पापानि रसमूलाश्च व्याधयः ।
इष्टमूलानि शोकानि त्रीणि त्यक्त्वा सुखी भव ॥

Transliteration:
lobhamūlāni pāpāni rasamūlāśca vyādhayaḥ ।
iṣṭamūlāni śokāni trīṇi tyaktvā sukhī bhava ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Greed emanates sins; gratification of the palate is the root for diseases; (and) desire is the source of grievances. Abandon these 3 and attain happiness!

Commentary:

No one wants to commit a crime or sin. Every person's internal hard-wiring warns him against performing that which is not 'dharma'. Everyone has this conscience. Yet, what is the reason for so much crime and sin in the world? The motivation is greed! Greed driven actions lead to sin. The anxiety to possess an object of interest makes one perform sin.

They say, 'you are what you eat'. This means one's health is a mirror image of his eating habits. Eating habits originate in one's weakness for taste. If he yields to it every time, diseases are bound to show up.

If one is sad it is because he is disappointed. The disappointment arises from the anticipation of a particular outcome from any circumstance. More than expectation itself, it is the insistence of that expectation to become a reality causes sorrow. This insistence is born from desires!

The poet says, 'to lead a happy life, stay away from these three troublemakers - greed, zest for food and desires'.

1. Earth can provide enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not enough for one man's greed.
2. Eat healthy, stay healthy.
3. Moderate your desires.

Remembering these 3 points can make life much happier!

pada vigrahaH:
लोभ-मूलानि पापानि रस-मूलाः च व्याधयः ।
lobha-mūlāni pāpāni rasa-mūlāḥ ca vyādhayaḥ ।

इष्ट-मूलानि शोकानि त्रीणि त्यक्त्वा सुखी भव ॥
iṣṭa-mūlāni śokāni trīṇi tyaktvā sukhī bhava ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
lobhamUlaani paapaani rasamUlaashcha vyaadhayaH ।
iShTamUlaani shokaani trINi tyaktvaa sukhI bhava ॥

lobha-mUlaani paapaani rasa-mUlaaH cha vyaadhayaH ।

iShTa-mUlaani shokaani trINi tyaktvaa sukhI bhava ॥