June 30th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुलभाः पुरुषा राजन् सततं प्रियवादिनः ।
अप्रियस्य तु पथ्यस्य वक्ता श्रोता च दुर्लभः ॥
- रामायण

Transliteration:
sulabhāḥ puruṣā rājan satataṃ priyavādinaḥ ।
apriyasya tu pathyasya vaktā śrotā ca durlabhaḥ ॥
- rāmāyaṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Oh, King! It is easy to find people who always talk in (your) favor. But people who speak or listen to 'words not in (your) favor, yet in your welfare' are rare to find.

Commentary:

Especially when one is in power or holding a political office, he is sure to find tons of 'yes sir', 'yes, your highness', kind of people. Given that he is the man of authority, people in his cabinet of ministry would not dare to oppose or say a word against him, whether he takes a right step or a wrong one.  People around him just nod and oblige, never expressing their honest opinions.

On the contrary, a person holding a high position is in need of people who are honest and courageous enough to express their thoughts! Rare are such people who dare to express their true opinions while keeping the welfare of the land in mind.

Even if counsellors give counsel to the person in power, chances are that he will not heed them. However, as long as words are spoken in favor of the one in power, they will be valued. But many a time, an unfavorable word is in the welfare of the better good. And rare are such people who will heed to such well-intended, but unfavorable words!

One word that brings peace is better than a thousand hollow words. Speak with honesty and have the courage to be honest.  Likewise, when an opposing viewpoint is presented, have the courage to analyse it with an open mind and keep everyone's welfare in mind.

pada vigrahaH:
सुलभाः पुरुषाः राजन् सततं प्रिय-वादिनः ।
sulabhāḥ puruṣāḥ rājan satataṁ priya-vādinaḥ ।

अ-प्रियस्य तु पथ्यस्य वक्ता श्रोता च दुर्लभः ॥
a-priyasya tu pathyasya vaktā śrōtā ca durlabhaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sulabhaaH puruShaa raajan satataM priyavaadinaH ।
apriyasya tu pathyasya vaktaa shrotaa cha durlabhaH ॥
- raamaayaNa

sulabhaaH puruShaa raajan satataM priya-vaadinaH ।
a-priyasya tu pathyasya vaktaa shrotaa cha durlabhaH ॥

June 29th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
काका आह्वयते काकान् याचको न तु याचकान् ।
काकयाचकयोर्मध्ये वरं काको न याचकः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नसमुच्चय


Transliteration:
kākā āhvayate kākān yācako na tu yācakān ।
kākayācakayormadhye varaṃ kāko na yācakaḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnasamuccaya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Crows call other crows, but a cadger (beggar) never (calls) other cadgers. Between a crow and a cadger, a crow is a better choice, not a cadger.

Commentary:

Greed is never a financial issue, it is a heart issue! 

When a crow finds a scrap of food, it makes a lot of noise and draws the attention of all other crows to the food. Consequentially, when other crows come, the food gets shared among them. The crow happily shares his find and is satisfied with whatever comes.

Unlike the crow, when a scrounger asks for favors from others, he tries to dodge and deflect other cadgers, so he can get the maximum benefit. He wants to get as much from the giver as he can and keep it all for himself!

This verse extols the attitude of 'sharing' which is a rarity among human beings, in general.  Greed is the most commonly seen attitude.  One wants everything, every time, and everywhere.  Greed incites him into usurping whatever comes his way and he will not share anything with anyone!  He falls short in comparison to a mere crow, who enthusiastically calls all of its kind and shares its find willingly!

Being human and having better brains, he applies it to use in devious manipulative ways. But a bird, having a 'bird brain' (pun intended!), has a larger heart.

There is no delight in owning anything that remains unshared! 'All for one, one for all' must be the principle.

pada vigrahaH:
काका आह्वयते काकान् याचकः न तु याचकान् ।
kākā āhvayate kākān yācakaḥ na tu yācakān ।

काक-याचकयोः मध्ये वरं काकः न याचकः ॥
kāka-yācakayoḥ madhye varaṃ kākaḥ na yācakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaakaa aahvayate kaakaan yaachako na tu yaachakaan ।
kaakayaachakayormadhye varaM kaako na yaachakaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnasamuchchaya

kaakaa aahvayate kaakaan yaachakaH na tu yaachakaan ।

kaaka-yaachakayoH madhye varaM kaakaH na yaachakaH ॥

June 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
एकः प्रसूयते जन्तुः एक एव प्रलीयते ।
एकोऽनुभुङ्क्ते सुकृतम् एक एव च दुष्कृतम् ॥
- भागवत


Transliteration:
ekaḥ prasūyate jantuḥ eka eva pralīyate ।
eko'nubhuṅkte sukṛtam eka eva ca duṣkṛtam ॥
- bhāgavata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A being is born alone (and) will perish alone. He enjoys the fruit of his good deeds alone, and also (suffers the fruit) of the bad deeds alone.

Commentary:

A being is alone at birth and he dies alone as well. In between, during his life, he tries all possible tricks and trades to beat the loneliness, to no avail. One might have numerous friends and family around him, but then, when he passes on, he goes alone. None can keep him company on the onward journey, except, his vices and virtues.

If one performs good deeds in his lifetime, he alone gets to reap the benefit of those virtues. He cannot say, 'I think I have enough virtues in my share, maybe I'll share some with my spouse', or, 'I have collected ample merits, I would love to leave it for my children as an inheritance'!!

Likewise with vices too. One has to bear the brunt of his misdeeds all on his own as well. By simply saying that he was corrupt because he wanted to provide for his family, his family would not be able to shoulder accountability for his actions. He has to take it upon himself! He has no choice, actually. It comes with him automatically and he has to suffer the brunt—alone.

Life is even more lonely when one doesn't know himself. Be prudent.  Find comfort in your own company!  Because happiness is—being able to enjoy one's own company!  

pada vigrahaH:
एकः प्रसूयते जन्तुः एकः एव प्रलीयते ।
ekaḥ prasūyate jantuḥ ekaḥ eva pralīyate ।

एकः अनुभुङ्क्ते सुकृतम् एकः एव च दुष्कृतम् ॥
ekaḥ anubhuṅkte sukṛtam ekaḥ eva ca duṣkṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ekaH prasUyate jantuH eka eva pralIyate ।
eko.nubhu~nkte sukRutam eka eva cha duShkRutam ॥
- bhaagavata

ekaH prasUyate jantuH ekaH eva pralIyate ।

ekaH anubhu~nkte sukRutam ekaH eva cha duShkRutam ॥

June 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अकृत्वा परसन्तापम् अगत्वा खलनम्रताम् ।
अनुत्सृज्य सतां मार्गं यत्स्वल्पमपि तद्बहु ॥
- शार्ङ्गधर पद्धति

Transliteration:
akṛtvā parasantāpam agatvā khalanamratām ।
anutsṛjya satāṃ mārgaṃ yatsvalpamapi tadbahu ॥
- śārṅgadhara paddhati

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Without tormenting others, without complying with a wrongdoer, without giving up the path of the noble - any little (achieved) is more.

Commentary:

By tormenting other beings, by being submissive to a corrupt person, and trading off the very essence of dharma one may think he has achieved everything in life. These behaviors may also fetch him riches and comforts. However, these benefits will not last long. Moreover, they will not bring any peace of mind to the person. The mind will be constantly busy, churning up devious plans on how to fool and cheat others. And then, there is the fear of getting exposed too!

By maintaining values, one may not conquer mountains and reach the pinnacles of nobility immediately. But any little amount achieved takes his mind closer to clarity, purity, and piety! Isn't that a much better reward than any riches?

Virtue is its own reward! Keep your path of virtue, morality, and nobility - no matter how big or small.  It's the small drops of water that contribute to the mighty ocean.  

pada vigrahaH:

अ-कृत्वा पर-सन्तापम् अ-गत्वा खल-नम्रताम् ।
a-kṛtvā para-santāpam a-gatvā khala-namratām ।

अन्-उत्सृज्य सतां मार्गं यत् स्वल्पम् अपि तत् बहु ॥
an-utsṛjya satāṃ mārgaṃ yat svalpam api tat bahu ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akRutvaa parasantaapam agatvaa khalanamrataam ।
anutsRujya sataaM maargaM yatswalpamapi tadbahu ॥
- shaar~ngadhara paddhati

a-kRutvaa para-santaapam a-gatvaa khala-namrataam ।

an-utsRujya sataaM maargaM yat swalpam api tat bahu ॥

June 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अक्रोधेन जयेत् क्रोधम् असाधुं  साधुना जयेत् ।
जयेत् कदर्यं दानेन जयेत् सत्येन चानृतम् ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व


Transliteration:
akrodhena jayet krodham asādhuṃ sādhunā jayet ।
jayet kadaryaṃ dānena jayet satyena cānṛtam ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Anger is won over with calmness (without anger); the immoral are won with morale; a miser is won by giving; lies are won over with truth.

Commentary:

An eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth, limb for a limb, life for a life—there is no solace in spite!

If one expresses anger all the time while an onlooker continuously keeps his calm, then how long can an angry man keep his temper? He would feel like he is kicking his arms and legs against the air—no matter how much he tries, he can't hurt the air. Eventually, he will learn to keep his calm because he has no choice. Anger is won over with calmness.

When immoral laws are exercised, they are won over with morality. No matter how many devious plans are made, good triumphs over evil in the end.

A miser is won over with generosity. If a miser is given and given endlessly without reservations, he is bound to become influenced at some point, understanding the importance of giving. Possessions are meant to be put to use for other's welfare, not to be clung onto. That is what is taught by giving.

Winning over lies is as simple as telling the truth! Honesty keeps the mind and soul peaceful. Lies will not stand a chance in front of the truth. Also, it is so much easier to be honest than not. When telling the truth one doesn't have to keep track of all their lies, nor carry the fear of being caught! More importantly, truthfulness is the only path when one's quest is: the ultimate truth. Speaking the truth becomes a win-win situation for everyone.

Keep your calm, morality, generosity, and honesty. Make life simple and peaceful.

pada vigrahaH:

अक्रोधेन जयेत् क्रोधम् असाधुं साधुना जयेत् ।
akrodhena jayet krodham asādhuṃ sādhunā jayet ।

जयेत् कदर्यं दानेन जयेत् सत्येन च अनृतम् ॥
jayet kadaryaṃ dānena jayet satyena ca anṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akrodhena jayet krodham asaadhuM saadhunaa jayet ।
jayet kadaryaM daanena jayet satyena chaanRutam ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

akrodhena jayet krodham asaadhuM saadhunaa jayet ।

jayet kadaryaM daanena jayet satyena cha anRutam ॥

June 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
औषधार्थसुमन्त्राणां बुद्धिश्चैव महात्मनाम् ।
असाध्यं नास्ति लोकेऽत्र यद्ब्रह्माण्डस्य मध्यगम् ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र


Transliteration:
auṣadhārthasumantrāṇāṃ buddhiścaiva mahātmanām ।
asādhyaṃ nāsti loke'tra yadbrahmāṇḍasya madhyagam ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Nothing impossible exists in this world for these—medicine, wealth, good counsel, and intellect of the noble.

Commentary:

If there is a problem, there is a solution! 

Between—medicine, wealth, good counsel, and the intellect of the noble—every issue in this world can be addressed AND resolved!!

What are the kinds of problems one might face?

• Sickness: there is medicine for that.
• Food, water, shelter, and comforts: wealth can address that.
• Stress and mental burdens: good counsel puts them to rest.
• Day-to-day issues or long-term problems: the intellect of the noble/wise can tackle them.

Do not lose heart at the advent of troubles.  Sometimes, it might just need a new perspective. Keep the faith and use the right tool to beat it. At times, when the issues are not so black and white, it takes prudence to decide which course of action must be taken. 

Be prudent.  Keep the faith.

pada vigrahaH:
औषध-अर्थ-सुमन्त्राणां बुद्धिः च एव महात्मनाम् ।
auṣadha-artha-sumantrāṇāṃ buddhiḥ ca eva mahātmanām ।

असाध्यं न अस्ति लोके अत्र यत् ब्रह्माण्डस्य मध्यगम् ॥
asādhyaṃ na asti loke atra yat brahmāṇḍasya madhyagam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
auShadhaarthasumantraaNaaM buddhishchaiva mahaatmanaam ।
asaadhyaM naasti loke.tra yadbrahmaaNDasya madhyagam ॥
- pa~nchatantra

auShadha-artha-sumantraaNaaM buddheH cha eva mahaatmanaam ।

asaadhyaM na asti loke atra yat brahmaaNDasya madhyagam ॥

June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दर्शनध्यानसंस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जनसङ्गतिः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
darśanadhyānasaṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjanasaṅgatiḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just like the fish, by watching over; turtle, through contemplation; birds, by incubation—take care of their young, (people) should protect their children by keeping them in good company, at all times.

Commentary:

Most animals are known to give birth to their offspring and after a short period of nurture, they leave them to fend for themselves. But during those nurturing stages, they take the utmost care, almost as if there is nothing else in the world they would rather do!

• Fish keep a constant watch over their eggs till they hatch.
• Turtles lay their eggs and are done with childcare. But, even then, they carefully contemplate their predators' actions and select the safest spot for the eggs. They dig a hole in a spot that best suits their young to grow and hatch.
• Birds incubate their eggs.  They protect them from harsh climatic conditions and predators as well. They even feed and nurture them until their wings are strong enough to fly by themselves. 

If not, the young shall lose the battle of life before it even begins! However, all these—animals, birds, and fish alike, let go of their young! A human is the only being who shelters, nurtures, and pampers his offspring for the longest duration! 

Is a parent's job done if he builds a home and feeds his children?! This would only protect children from harsh climates and starvation. Shouldn't that be sufficient for the well-being of the child?! The maturity at which humans work requires more than mere physical protection and food for nourishment! They also need intellectual and spiritual growth. 

How is that done? How does one provide nourishment for the mind and the intellect?  By always keeping them in good company! This not only aids positive growth of the mind but also protects them from going on a negative path. It is a win-win situation. Good company is the only insurance that assures to keep one's offspring safe and sound in either harsh or friendly environments at all times.  This equips the children to learn to deal with life on their own once they are out of the nest, so to speak.

Hence, at all costs, parents should strive to keep their children in good company, beginning with themselves!  They have to be the good company to their own children. The best protective shield they can provide their children is—teaching them to seek and enjoy the company of noble people!

No road is long with good company because good company is the shortest and easiest route in the journey of life. Find your shortcuts (good company) and aid your children in finding theirs.

pada vigrahaH:
दर्शन-ध्यान-संस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
darśana-dhyāna-saṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।

शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जन-सङ्गतिः ॥
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjana-saṅgatiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
darshanadhyaanasaMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।
shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjanasa~ngatiH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

darshana-dhyaana-saMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।

shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjana-sa~ngatiH ॥

June 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यश्च दिष्टपरो लोके यश्चापि हठवादिकः ।
उभावपि शठावेतौ कर्मबुद्धिः प्रशंस्यते ॥
- महाभारत, अरण्यपर्व


Transliteration:
yaśca diṣṭaparo loke yaścāpi haṭhavādikaḥ ।
ubhāvapi śaṭhāvetau karmabuddhiḥ praśaṃsyate ॥
- mahābhārata, araṇyaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who is a fatalist and he who is stubborn—both are rogues. He who deems his deeds as his duties is laudable.

Commentary:

Fatalist: Someone who believes everything is predetermined by fate and nothing can be altered. At the drop of a hat, he can leave it up to fate. Not taking responsibility for his actions, he succumbs and surrenders to anything that comes his way, in the name of destiny.

Stubborn: A person adamant about his own stance and viewpoint, never yielding to anyone else's opinions. He is right and he alone is right.  In fact, he believes so much in himself that he won't give room for himself to grow further!

This author says both people are rogues! Blaming fate and ducking away from responsibilities is not a choice; neither is being blind and adamant about one's own ideas without contemplation.

Only he who performs his deeds in the name of duties, and who has a sense of duty is commendable. No expectation of remuneration; no lame reasons given for either the success or failure of the tasks; readiness to learn and grow—all these become an integral part of one's personality only when he performs his actions cheerfully, in the name of duties. Hence, he alone is commended.

Duty is ours, results are His!

pada vigrahaH:
यः च दिष्टपरः लोके यः च अपि हठ-वादिकः ।
yaḥ ca diṣṭaparaḥ loke yaḥ ca api haṭha-vādikaḥ ।

उभौ अपि शठौ एतौ कर्म-बुद्धिः प्रशंस्यते ॥
ubhau api śaṭhau etau karma-buddhiḥ praśaṃsyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yashca diShTaparo loke yashchaapi haThavaadikaH ।
ubhaavapi shaThaavetau karmabuddhiH prashaMsyate ॥
- mahaabhaarata, araNyaparva

yaH ca diShTaparaH loke yaH cha api haTha-vaadikaH ।

ubhau api shaThau etau karma-buddhiH prashaMsyate ॥

June 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मूर्खा यत्र न पूज्यन्ते धान्यं यत्र सुसञ्चितम् ।
दाम्पत्ये कलहो नास्ति तत्र श्रीः स्वयमागता ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
mūrkhā yatra na pūjyante dhānyaṃ yatra susañcitam ।
dāmpatye kalaho nāsti tatra śrīḥ svayamāgatā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(In a place) where the foolish are not revered, where grain is collected abundantly, where there is no strife in the marriage—wealth comes by itself.

Commentary:

Where does wealth accumulate? Where there is prosperity! 

Where is prosperity? In places where:

• the foolish are not revered! This means places where knowledge and education are valued. There is an avenue for intellectual growth and maybe because of the ambiance, even the foolish get an opportunity to turn a new leaf!
• the grain is collected abundantly! When everyone is fed and content, most trouble is warded off. Many crimes happen due to a scarcity of food. When there is an abundance of grain, prosperity is the next step. It also means there is no squandering and there is prudence in spending.  Also, saving for a rainy day is a given priority.
• no strife in marriage! A family is the basic unit of any society with the man and lady of the house being the lead roles in the household. A constant rift between them will take a toll on their responsibilities toward their children and their education... pretty much everything important gets impacted! When these essential aspects are compromised, how can prosperity be expected?! Harmony between a husband and wife is reflected in the atmosphere of the household.

In a place where these 3 points are given priority, prosperity will automatically follow! Any person who contributes to prosperity will prosper in turn!

pada vigrahaH:
मूर्खाः यत्र न पूज्यन्ते धान्यं यत्र सुसञ्चितम् ।
mūrkhāḥ yatra na pūjyante dhānyaṃ yatra susañcitam ।

दाम्पत्ये कलहो न अस्ति तत्र श्रीः स्वयम् आगता ॥
dāmpatye kalaho na asti tatra śrīḥ svayam āgatā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
mUrkhaa yatra na pUjyante dhaanyaM yatra susa~nchitam ।
daampatye kalaho naasti tatra shrIH svayamaagataa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

mUrkhaaH yatra na pUjyante dhaanyaM yatra susa~nchitam ।

daampatye kalaho na asti tatra shrIH svayam aagataa ॥

June 21st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
जनिता चोपनेता च यस्तु विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
अन्नदाता भयत्राता पञ्चैते पितरः स्मृताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
janitā copanetā ca yastu vidyāṃ prayacchati ।
annadātā bhayatrātā pañcaite pitaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These 5 are defined as fathers—one who gives birth; one who brings closer (to the Lord, and to spirituality, by initiating through the sacred thread ceremony); one who gives knowledge; one who gives food; one who protects from fear.

Commentary:

In the journey of life, one comes across many relationships that command respect for contributing towards their growth.

A 'father' is one such figure. He is an initiator, an invoker, and a propeller! At different stages of life, one comes across certain father figures who command the same respect as one's own birth father!

1. One who gave birth—is respectable for the very fact that he gave birth, then tended and nurtured the child, without whom the child would not exist.
2. 'upanetā'—literally means 'one who takes closer'. The context here is 'upanayana' (the sacred thread ceremony). The thread ceremony is the initiation of one's learning. That is the first step one takes toward a spiritual path in life. He who counsels or guides one towards that path is a father figure and is therefore revered.
3. He who gives knowledge—namely a preceptor, educates his pupil selflessly. To the best of his abilities, the teacher teaches a person right from wrong.  He equips him with the skill set essential for survival and prepares him for his onward journey of life. A father always wants his children to surpass him. Similarly, a true preceptor rejoices when his pupil excels him! Then, isn't he a respectable father figure as well?!
4. He who gives food—helps one survive! When one is hungry, no amount of wealth can satiate his appetite. One who offers food is giving him life! He is a father too.
5. He who protects from fear—quells one's insecurities and helps him overcome the hurdles of life. When one's fears are dispelled, he sees life in a new light! Such a person is deemed as a father.

A father is someone whom children look up to, no matter how tall they have grown. One cannot do anything to repay these fatherly figures. All one can do is, feel indebted to them and revere them all! There is nothing in this world that can be given to free ourselves from their debt. We can only pass on the legacy by being mentors ourselves to our children, pupils, or the society around us!

pada vigrahaH:
जनिता च उपनेता च यः तु विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
janitā ca  ca yaḥ tu vidyāṃ prayacchati ।

अन्न-दाता भय-त्राता पञ्च एते पितरः स्मृताः ॥
anna-dātā bhaya-trātā pañca ete pitaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
janitaa chopanetaa cha yastu vidyaaM prayachChati ।
annadaataa bhayatraataa pa~nchaite pitaraH smRutaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

janitaa cha upanetaa cha yaH tu vidyaaM prayachChati ।

anna-daataa bhaya-traataa pa~ncha ete pitaraH smRutaaH ॥

June 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उपसर्गे अन्यचक्रे च दुर्भिक्षे च भयावहे ।
असाधुर्जनसंपर्के यः पलायति स जीवति ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
upasarge anyacakre ca durbhikṣe ca bhayāvahe ।
asādhurjanasaṃparke yaḥ palāyati sa jīvati ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who runs—in times of retreat, when in others' territory, in famine, in fear, or in association with evil-doers—survives.

Commentary:

It is rightly said, 'If you cannot walk away from negative people, try the next best thing—RUN!'

1. When the whole army is retreating, is it sane for a lone soldier to charge forward?

2. When one steps out of one's boundaries and lands on others' property, it is not his safe haven anymore.

3. In times of famine, if one cannot fend for himself and his family, what is the point of guarding the place?

4. When the opponent is much stronger and instills fear in the person, what is the point in marching on?  Upon coming face-to-face with a Lion, what if one says, 'I won't run away, because only cowards run?!'

5. Company of the evil - this one is the worst of all! It does no good in any which way. Knowing so, if one still hangs around just so others don't call him a coward, doesn't make any sense.

In all these circumstances, if one takes a step back or runs away (keeps away), it is not called 'cowardice', it is called 'common sense'.  Sometimes, taking that retreat is more appropriate than charging ahead.

Running away is not always cowardice, it is survival sometimes! So, survive!! :)

pada vigrahaH:
उपसर्गे अन्य-चक्रे च दुर्भिक्षे च भयावहे ।
upasarge anya-cakre ca durbhikṣe ca bhayāvahe ।

असाधुः जन-संपर्के यः पलायति सः जीवति ॥
asādhuḥ jana-saṃparke yaḥ palāyati saḥ jīvati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
upasarge anyachakre cha durbhikShe cha bhayaavahe ।
asaadhurjanasaMparke yaH palaayati sa jIvati ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

upasarge anya-chakre cha durbhikShe cha bhayaavahe ।

asaadhuH jana-saMparke yaH palaayati saH jIvati ॥

June 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
षड्दोषाः पुरुषेणेह हातव्या भूतिमिच्छता ।
निद्रा तन्द्रा भयं क्रोधः आलस्यं दीर्घसूत्रता ॥
- विदुरनीति

Transliteration:
ṣaḍdoṣāḥ puruṣeṇeha hātavyā bhūtimicchatā ।
nidrā tandrā bhayaṃ krodhaḥ ālasyaṃ dīrghasūtratā ॥
- viduranīti 

Meaning of the subhAShita:

One desirous of prosperity should avoid 6 vices in this world: (excessive) sleep, fatigue, fear, anger, laziness, and procrastination.

Commentary:

Hard work is what leads to prosperity and the success of any endeavor.

1. Excessive sleep: robs not only the time spent in sleeping but also the alertness of the person.
2. Fatigue: curtails one's enthusiasm to work towards his goal.
3. Fear: will not encourage one to be adventurous or to try new means and avenues to accomplish tasks.
4. Anger: clouds one's judgement and leads him towards taking wrong and hasty steps that end up wrecking his chances of achieving goals.
5. Laziness: does not motivate one to get up and work. Nothing can be achieved by being stagnant. Industriousness is the only way to success.
6. Procrastination: is the art of putting off something that should have been done the day before yesterday, until the day after tomorrow!  This race of keeping up with yesterday is the most efficient method of self-sabotage.

None of the above points is conducive to prosperity. Avoid them at all costs!

pada vigrahaH:
षट् दोषाः पुरुषेण इह हातव्याः भूतिम् इच्छताः ।
ṣaṭ doṣāḥ puruṣeṇa iha hātavyāḥ bhūtim icchatāḥ ।

निद्रा तन्द्रा भयं क्रोधः आलस्यं दीर्घ-सूत्रता ॥
nidrā tandrā bhayaṃ krodhaḥ ālasyaṃ dīrgha-sūtratā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ShaDdoShaaH puruSheNeha haatavyaa bhUtimichChataa ।
nidraa tandraa bhayaM krodhaH aalasyaM dIrghasUtrataa ॥
- viduranIti

ShaT doShaaH puruSheNa iha haatavyaaH bhUtim ichChataaH ।

nidraa tandraa bhayaM krodhaH aalasyaM dIrgha-sUtrataa ॥

June 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यो ध्रुवाणि परित्यज्य अध्रुवं परिसेवते ।
ध्रुवाणि तस्य नश्यन्ति अध्रुवं नष्टमेव च ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
yo dhruvāṇi parityajya adhruvaṃ parisevate ।
dhruvāṇi tasya naśyanti adhruvaṃ naṣṭameva ca ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who gives up the 'certain' and pursues the 'temporary' (attributes), his stable (attributes) shall perish, his impermanent ones are certainly lost.

Commentary:

It is like trying to catch a shadow! Enticed by the shape of an object, what if one puts his best efforts and works hard to capture its shadow? Would he ever be able to fulfill his desire?  With sunlight, an object naturally casts a shadow.  But instead of getting the object, if one were to put effort to catch the shadow, he will not only fail in his endeavor, he will lose precious time! Meanwhile, time will pass and the sun will set. The shadow will certainly be gone and in the process, the true object of desire is lost too, because he would have run out of time to make an effort in obtaining the object. In the end, he neither gets the shadow nor the object :(.

This verse is really addressing a much bigger issue!  If one chases after tentative material pleasures he will become entangled in māyā (illusion) and lose his goal.   It is said that 'Life is a mirage; It comes from no visible rain; It falls into no recognizable sea'. Winning over the mirage of māyā is not an easy task!  If one digresses and runs after the material world, then the focus will be lost and life's purpose will be forgotten! The purpose of life is to attain the eternal.  Each one of us has to go on our own quest and realize the Supreme.

By going on a quest to catch the shadow (material pleasures), do not lose the object (purpose of life)!

pada vigrahaH:
यो धुर्वाणि परित्यज्य अध्रुवं परिसेवते ।
yo dhurvāṇi parityajya adhruvaṃ parisevate ।

ध्रुवाणि तस्य नश्यन्ति अध्रुवं नष्टम् एव च ॥
dhruvāṇi tasya naśyanti adhruvaṃ naṣṭam eva ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yo dhruvaaNi parityajya adhruvaM parisevate ।
dhruvaaNi tasya nashyanti adhruvaM naShTameva cha ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

yo dhurvaaNi parityajya adhruvaM parisevate ।

dhruvaaNi tasya nashyanti adhruvaM naShTam eva cha ॥

June 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
माधुर्यमक्षरव्यक्तिः पदच्छेदस्तु सुस्वरः ।
धैर्यं लयसमर्थं च षडेते पाठकागुणाः ॥
- पाणिनीयशिक्षा


Transliteration:
mādhuryamakṣaravyaktiḥ padacchedastu susvaraḥ ।
dhairyaṃ layasamarthaṃ ca ṣaḍete pāṭhakāguṇāḥ ॥
- pāṇinīyaśikṣā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Sweetness in tone, clarity of syllables, isolation of words, proper intonation, confidence, accompanied with rhythm—these are the 6 attributes of a (good) reader.

Commentary:

Six traits make one a good reader—Tenderness in tone, accuracy in pronouncing each individual syllable, the breakup of words in the right places, an appropriate tone of voice, poise and certainty in reading, and proper rhythm.

These traits make one's reading clear, conveying the message accurately, and making the content appealing.

This inherently means one must also keep in mind—not to read with a harsh, hoarse voice; not swallow up the syllables in a hurry; not fuse words together, making sure to give just enough pause between words; raise and drop the voice appropriately depending on the bhāva (feeling) being expressed; the stride, the voice and the hold of the reader should reflect confidence every step of the way; the reading should be paced aptly too. 

A good reader makes a good speaker.  Today a reader, tomorrow a leader! Acquire the right skills from the get-go.

pada vigrahaH:
माधुर्यम् अक्षर-व्यक्तिः पदच्छेदः तु सुस्वरः ।
mādhuryam akṣara-vyaktiḥ padacchedaḥ tu susvaraḥ ।

धैर्यं लय-समर्थं च षट् एते पाठका-गुणाः ॥
dhairyaṃ laya-samarthaṃ ca ṣaṭ ete pāṭhakā-guṇāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
maadhuryamakSharavyaktiH padachChedastu susvaraH ।
dhairyaM layasamarthaM cha ShaDete paaThakaaguNaaH ॥
- paaNinIyashikShaa

maadhuryam akShara-vyaktiH padachChedaH tu susvaraH ।

dhairyaM laya-samarthaM cha ShaT ete paaThakaa-guNaaH ॥

June 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
श्लोकेन वा तदर्धेन पादेनैकाक्षरेण वा ।
अबन्ध्यं दिवसं कुर्यात् ध्यानाध्ययन कर्मभिः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
ślokena vā tadardhena pādenaikākṣareṇa vā ।
abandhyaṃ divasaṃ kuryāt dhyānādhyayana karmabhiḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Every day, one should study a verse, or a half, or a quarter, or even a syllable. Never waste a day without contemplating and learning.

Commentary:

From learning to putting forth the first steps, to talking the first words, from school to college, from college to post-graduation, every new day is a new life with new learning! After these stages, life stagnates because learning stagnates! It is easy for people to succumb to their routines and mundane chores. The love for learning can be lost from sight.

The reason is not busy schedules, it is prioritization! If learning is a top priority, one will find a way to set aside some time for learning regularly. Learning is beneficial in many ways. Not only does the knowledge base improve, but it also keeps the brain younger and sharper. There is no better way to whet the appetite of the brain than keeping it active and alert!

The verse says one should learn a verse, or half, or a quarter, or at least a syllable. One of the reasons for this is that in the olden days, all knowledge was passed on in the form of verses.  They had methods to memorize easily and pass it on to future generations without errors. The very essence of life was captured and encapsulated into power-packed verses. Learning them meant not just chanting them, but contemplating their meaning and applying them to daily lives. Life is precious and short at the same time. Not a single day should be wasted without learning and contemplating the teachings extracted from these verses from the scriptures.

One should get over the idea that only children should spend their time in study. Be a student so long as you still have something to learn.  This means one's whole lifetime! Someone very appropriately said, "I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma."  There is no ending to learning. Honestly, one's life is too short for all the learning, contemplating and pondering that there is. So, keep thinking, keep learning, keep growing...

pada vigrahaH:
श्लोकेन वा तत् अर्धेन पादेन एक-अक्षरेण वा ।
ślokena vā tat ardhena pādena eka-akṣareṇa vā ।

अबन्ध्यं दिवसं कुर्यात् ध्यान-अध्ययन-कर्मभिः ॥
abandhyaṃ divasaṃ kuryāt dhyāna-adhyayana-karmabhiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shlokena vaa tadardhena paadenaikaakShareNa vaa ।
abandhyaM divasaM kuryaat dhyaanaadhyayana karmabhiH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

shlokena vaa tat ardhena paadena eka-akShareNa vaa ।

abandyaM divasam kuryaat dhyaana-adhyana-karmabhiH ॥

June 15th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शरीरपोषणार्थी सन् य आत्मानं दिदृक्षति ।
ग्राहं दारुधिया धृत्वा नदीं तर्तुं स गच्छति ॥
- विवेकचूडामणि


Transliteration:
śarīrapoṣaṇārthī san ya ātmānaṃ didṛkṣati ।
grāhaṃ dārudhiyā dhṛtvā nadīṃ tartuṃ sa gacchati ॥
- vivekacūḍāmaṇi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who tends the body desirous of seeing the ātmā (Self), is trying to hold on to a crocodile in order to cross the river, thinking of it as a log!

Commentary:

'Seeing' the Self is the goal. But the body is only a means to the end. It is not the goal itself. The body is physically visible to the eye of perception. ātmā is much more abstract and one needs to delve deeper into his vision to perceive this. It is very easy to get distracted in the beautification of the visible body.

But the learned say, 'anyone who indulges himself in body-beautification with the hope of seeing the ātmā is fooling himself!' This is as sensible as one trying to cross a river by riding on a crocodile with the delusion that it is a log! Just because the rider is deluded into thinking that the crocodile is a log, the crocodile will strike nonetheless! The journey will not only prove dangerous, but his path gets distracted as well.

Be careless in your attire if you must, but keep a tidy soul!  Diseases of the soul are more dangerous and more numerous than those of the body.

pada vigrahaH:
शरीर-पोषण-अर्थी सन् यः आत्मानं दिदृक्षति ।
śarīra-poṣaṇa-arthī san yaḥ ātmānaṃ didṛkṣati ।

ग्राहं दारु-धिया धृत्वा नदीं तर्तुं सः गच्छति ॥
grāhaṃ dāru-dhiyā dhṛtvā nadīṃ tartuṃ saḥ gacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sharIrapoShaNaarthI san ya aatmaanaM didRukShati ।
graahaM daarudhiyaa dhRutvaa nadIM tartuM sa gachChati ॥
- vivekachUDaamaNi

sharIra-poShaNa-arthI san yaH aatmaanaM didRukShati ।

graahaM daaru-dhiyaa dhRutvaa nadIM tartuM saH gachChati ॥

June 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पुत्राश्च विविधैः शीलैः नियोज्याः सततं बुधैः ।
नीतिज्ञाः शीलसम्पन्नाः भवन्ति कुलपूजिताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
putrāśca vividhaiḥ śīlaiḥ niyojyāḥ satataṃ budhaiḥ ।
nītijñāḥ śīlasampannāḥ bhavanti kulapūjitāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Intelligent people always equip children with a variety of integrities. Those endowed with character and moral integrity come to be worshiped in the family/community.

Commentary:

The newest toys in the store, the latest gadgets in the market—are these really the things we need to equip children with?! Watching television all day, and playing video games in between—this is becoming the trend of life, and children are losing out on personal interactions, people skills, and more essentially, moral values!

The verse says smart people know that the only paraphernalia they need to arm their children with is—integrity. A sound moral ground provides varieties of integrities—being honest, working hard, being compassionate, being patient..., the list goes on! Children with such a cornerstone, become individuals with solid character. It is they who have a strong moral stance and a pronounced character who come to be respected in society. Knowing this chain of links, intelligent parents take those first steps, right from the start.

If children are trained from their younger days to respect and value the people around them, they will be much better people later in life.  An abundance of material comforts one owns does not conduce moral growth in any way.

Children will not remember you for the material things you gave them.  However, they will remember and cherish the morals and values you equipped them with, helping them to embrace life with confidence and respect.

pada vigrahaH:
पुत्राः च विविधैः शीलैः नियोज्याः सततं बुधैः ।
putrāḥ ca vividhaiḥ śīlaiḥ niyojyāḥ satataṃ budhaiḥ ।

नीतिज्ञाः शील-सम्पन्नाः भवन्ति कुल-पूजिताः ॥
nītijñāḥ śīla-sampannāḥ bhavanti kula-pūjitāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
putraashcha vividhaiH shIlaiH niyojyaaH satataM budhaiH ।
nItij~naaH shIlasampannaaH bhavanti kulapUjitaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

putraaH cha vividhaiH shIlaiH niyojyaaH satataM budhaiH ।

nItij~naaH shIla-sampannaaH bhavanti kula-pUjitaaH ॥

June 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्थानस्थितस्य पद्मस्य मित्रे वरुणभास्करौ ।
स्थानच्युतस्य तस्यैव क्लेदशोषणकारकौ ॥

Transliteration:
sthānasthitasya padmasya mitre varuṇabhāskarau ।
sthānacyutasya tasyaiva kledaśoṣaṇakārakau ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Rain and sunshine are friends to the lotus who is stationed in its (own) place. They (also) cause rotting and drying to the same lotus when removed from its place.

Commentary:

A lotus thrives on water and sunshine. In fact, it lives and grows in water. It blossoms with the sunrise and shuts close at sunset! Hence, the lotus considers water and the sun as its friends.

If the same lotus is plucked from the plant and kept in the sun, it will dry out within no time. And if put in water; it will drench and putrefy. But wait, aren't these the same sun and water that were friends of the lotus a moment ago when it was still on the plant?!

Well, that's the harsh reality of life!! Those who were once friends can turn into foes. When one is not rooted in his position, he loses his following! Meaning, those who befriended him will ignore him when he is not in the locus of his authority. Being oneself and performing duties with total dedication is the true way of maintaining one's position. A husband has his position, a wife has her's. Similarly, a mother, a father and then children, etc. all have positions. Each one needs to do complete justice to the position he/she holds because only then does it make his/her position well held. Otherwise, circumstances and people that were once favorable, prove to suddenly become adverse!

When one pretends to be someone he is not, isn't he abandoning his position 'of being himself?' Isn't it natural for him to face hardships like the lotus plucked out of the plant?

The easiest position to hold in the world is: your own. The most difficult position is the one other people insist you hold. Do not let yourself be put in that position! Keep your spot and be happy :).

pada vigrahaH:
स्थान-स्थितस्य पद्मस्य मित्रे वरुण-भास्करौ ।
sthāna-sthitasya padmasya mitre varuṇa-bhāskarau ।

स्थान-च्युतस्य तस्य एव क्लेद-शोषण-कारकौ ॥
sthāna-cyutasya tasya eva kleda-śoṣaṇa-kārakau ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sthaanasthitasya padmasya mitre varuNabhaaskarau ।
sthaanachyutasya tasyaiva kledashoShaNakaarakau ॥

sthaana-sthitasya padmasya mitre varuNa-bhaaskarau ।

sthaana-chyutasya tasya eva kleda-shoShaNa-kaarakau ॥

June 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कस्य दोषः कुले नास्ति व्याधिना को न पीडितः ।
व्यसनं केन न प्राप्‍तं कस्य सौख्यं निरन्तरम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
kasya doṣaḥ kule nāsti vyādhinā ko na pīḍitaḥ ।
vyasanaṃ kena na prāp‍taṃ kasya saukhyaṃ nirantaram ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Whose clan is blemishless? Who is never afflicted by a disease? Who has never attained adversity?  Whose happiness is unbroken?

Commentary:

The sore thumb of the family; one odd button; the black sheep of the family—all families have one such person, whom others want to hide in the closet! When everyone has someone like that in their own families, why be embarrassed about the one in your family?

There is no one who is in perfect health. At some point or the other, everyone would have suffered one health issue or another. Only beings are afflicted by diseases, not a log! It is a part and parcel of being a 'living' being.

In the entire world, can anyone find a person who has never seen any adversity in life? If he has seen no adversity, then, he has lived no life at all! Only when one sees hard times, does he truly appreciate and enjoy the value of all the blessings he has been bestowed with.

Extending the same argument, no one has never seen good times in life at all! Along with that, comes the uncertainty of that pleasant time as well. There are no guarantees smooth sailing will continue forever. His ocean will be ruffled and the waves will become turbulent.  This will make his ship wobble at one time or another.

Things happen beyond our control  That is the time to remember, 'Whatever makes you a little uncomfortable is the biggest opportunity for growth'.  

Change is the only constant thing! Change alone, isn't changing. Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional! Why fret about shortcomings or cling on to possessions then? Neither is permanent!

pada vigrahaH:
कस्य दोषः कुले नास्ति व्याधिना कः न पीडितः ।
kasya doṣaḥ kule nāsti vyādhinā kaḥ na pīḍitaḥ ।

व्यसनं केन न प्राप्‍तं कस्य सौख्यं निरन्तरम् ॥
vyasanaṃ kena na prāp‍taṃ kasya saukhyaṃ nirantaram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kasya doShaH kule naasti vyaadhinaa ko na pIDitaH ।
vyasanaM kena na praaptaM kasya soukhyaM nirantaram ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

kasya doShaH kule naasti vyaadhinaa kaH na pIDitaH ।

vyasanaM kena na praaptaM kasya soukhyaM nirantaram ॥

June 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
क्षीयन्ते सर्वदानानि यज्ञहोमबलिक्रियाः ।
न क्षीयते पात्रदानम् अभयं सर्वदेहिनाम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
kṣīyante sarvadānāni yajñahomabalikriyāḥ ।
na kṣīyate pātradānam abhayaṃ sarvadehinām ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Virtues earned through) all kinds of giving, sacrificial rituals, fire sacrifices, oblations, and other forms of worship diminish (over time). But the virtue earned by giving to a person in need never diminishes.

Commentary:

Even the fruit of virtues can only go so far. They are exhaustible as well. Virtuous deeds can be of many genres. Performing sacrificial rituals, fire sacrifices, and even giving, have limited returns. But when a man in need is assisted, that deed will never diminish! Give with all your heart when you have a chance. 

The given object might perish over time; the giver or receiver may be gone. But the feeling instilled in both the giver and the receiver flows through them to those around them. That is eternal! It is not just the fruit of the act itself, but also the inspiration it leaves behind.  It encourages both the giver and the receiver to do good.  This remains forever. This flow continues further and further.

In reality, it is not the receiver who is blessed but the giver! He is the one who must be thankful for the abundance he is blessed with.  Without it, he would not be able to exercise the power of benevolence or be enabled to purify his heart.

Give generously to the deserving.  Real generosity towards the future lies in giving all to the present!

pada vigrahaH:
क्षीयन्ते सर्व-दानानि यज्ञ-होम-बलि-क्रियाः ।
kṣīyante sarva-dānāni yajña-homa-bali-kriyāḥ ।

न क्षीयते पात्र-दानम् अभयं सर्व-देहिनाम् ॥
na kṣīyate pātra-dānam abhayaṃ sarva-dehinām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kShIyante sarvadaanaani yaj~nahomabalikriyaaH ।
na kShIyate paatradaanam abhayaM sarvadehinaam ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

kShIyante sarva-daanaani yaj~na-homa-bali-kriyaaH ।

na kShIyate paatra-daanam abhayaM sarva-dehinaam ॥

June 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नान्नोदकसमं दानं न तिथिर्द्वादशी समा ।
न गायत्र्याः परो मन्त्रः न मातुः परं दैवतम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
nānnodakasamaṃ dānaṃ na tithirdvādaśī samā ।
na gāyatryāḥ paro mantraḥ na mātuḥ paraṃ daivatam ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no giving better than of food and water; there is no time better than the twelfth day of the lunar month (dvādaśī); there is no formula of prayer better than the gāyatrī mantra; (and) there is no deity better than a mother.

Commentary:

Food and water are the best types of offerings to a hungry man. No amount of wealth can quench his thirst and hunger at that moment. When he is satiated, he heartily blesses the giver.  Hence the statement, 'annadātā sukhībhava' (Oh! giver of food, may you attain happiness), is coined.

Among all days in a month, the twelfth day of the lunar calendar, dvādaśī, is considered very auspicious. Any tasks undertaken on that day are bound to be fruitful.

Among all mantras, the 'gāyatrī mantra' is deemed the most sacred of all. It kindles the intellect which eventually leads to all other realizations.

A mother is considered better than any other deity! All the deities cannot come and reside with each and every child. Hence, the Lord appoints a mother to take His place in each home. A mother takes care of the entire family, pays attention to the smallest of their needs, and protects them against all impending calamities. She puts her family as her first and foremost priority, even ahead of her own needs. What works for one family may not be suitable for another. A mother knows exactly what is best for her family and is constantly working towards their betterment.

Someone once said, "The term 'working mother' is redundant!" The term 'mother' already implies that she is working!! She never really leaves her children at home, even when she does not take them along with her. Meaning—she is carrying them around in her heart always!

Love your mother as trees love water and sunshine.  She nourishes you to grow, prosper, and reach new heights! Her love is like a circle—it has no beginning or ending. 

pada vigrahaH:
न अन्न उदक-समं दानं न तिथिः द्वादशी समा ।
na anna udaka-samaṃ dānaṃ na tithiḥ dvādaśī samā ।

न गायत्र्याः परः मन्त्रः न मातुः परं दैवतम् ॥
na gāyatryāḥ paraḥ mantraḥ na mātuḥ paraṃ daivatam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naannodakasamaM daanaM na tithirdvaadashI samaa ।
na gaayatryaaH paro mantraH na maatuH paraM daivatam ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

na anna udaka-samaM daanaM na tithiH dvaadashI samaa ।

na gaayatryaaH paraH mantraH na maatuH paraM daivatam ॥

June 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धर्मः श्रुतो वा दृष्टो वा स्मृतो वा कथितोऽपि वा ।
संवादितो वा राजेन्द्र पुनाति पुरुषं सदा ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि


Transliteration:
dharmaḥ śruto vā dṛṣṭo vā smṛto vā kathito'pi vā ।
saṃvādito vā rājendra punāti puruṣaṃ sadā ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Oh king, 'dharma'—if heard, seen, thought of, spoken of, or approved of—purifies the being always.

Commentary:

Any action should be justified as per dharma (virtue). There are many facets to any act or deed—hearing, seeing, thinking, speaking, or even standing by as the approver.

Even if one hears, sees, thinks, speaks, or approves of a virtuous deed, it cleanses him! Dharma is an attribute that should be incorporated into every single thought and action of a person. There is no end to it. One cannot say that because he did dharma today, tomorrow he can take some rest. 

Dharma is a constant process that is holding up the entire universe. Because the planets are following their dharma, because the 5 elements are following their dharma, because the sun, moon, and stars are following their respective dharmas, the universe is the way it is today. One day, fire can't suddenly decide to be cold and water can't decide to burn!

Similarly, as beings, we have our own dharma. This needs to be eternally upheld through every breath. Hence, if one partakes even in a small aspect of a dharmic act, it aids in purging his mind, clarifying his thoughts, and purifying his actions. It reinforces the importance of abiding by dharma to the individual and leads him on the right path!

Through incessant practice, our values should turn into virtues.  The reward of virtue is virtue alone! Sin can be committed in thought, word, or deed. So can virtue! The choice is ours.

pada vigrahaH:

धर्मः श्रुतः वा दृष्टः वा स्मृतः वा कथितः अपि वा ।
dharmaḥ śrutaḥ vā dṛṣṭaḥ vā smṛtaḥ vā kathitaḥ api vā ।

संवादितः वा राजेन्द्र पुनाति पुरुषं सदा ॥
saṃvāditaḥ vā rājendra punāti puruṣaṃ sadā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dharmaH shruto vaa dRuShTo vaa smRuto vaa kathito.pi vaa ।
saMvaadito vaa raajendra punaati puruShaM sadaa ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

dharmaH shrutaH vaa dRuShTaH vaa smRutaH vaa kathitaH api vaa ।

samvaaditaH vaa raajendra punaati puruShaM sadaa ॥

June 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
छिन्नोऽपि रोहति तरुः क्षीणोऽप्युपचीयते चन्द्रः ।
इति विमृशन्तस्सन्तः सन्तप्यन्ते न लोकेऽस्मिन् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
chinno'pi rohati taruḥ kṣīṇo'pyupacīyate candraḥ ।
iti vimṛśantassantaḥ santapyante na loke'smin ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A tree rejuvenates even when cut (and) the moon grows back even after waning—analyzing thus, the wise do not torment themselves in this world.

Commentary:

It is generally seen that any progress comes with a price. There are hurdles to face and regressions to take place along the way. It is easy to lose heart and give up on the endeavor altogether. However, the wise and tenacious do not let these shortcomings dishearten them. They are well aware of such scenarios and analyze the circumstances as:

• a tree, even when pruned and chopped, has the vibrancy to give new shoots and rejuvenate itself! 
• the moon wanes during one half of the month, then waxes and grows back during the other half! 

Keeping this in mind, they take the impending obstacles as temporary offsets and do not let themselves succumb to those hurdles. They do not torment themselves, instead, they work harder towards making things better with every effort they can.

Hope is the ability to see light despite all the darkness. No matter what happens, or how bad it may seem today..., life goes on and there will be a better tomorrow! 

pada vigrahaH:
छिन्नः अपि रोहति तरुः क्षीणः अपि उपचीयते चन्द्रः ।
chinnaḥ api rohati taruḥ kṣīṇaḥ api upacīyate candraḥ ।

इति विमृशन्तः सन्तः सन्तप्यन्ते न लोके अस्मिन् ॥
iti vimṛśantaḥ santaḥ santapyante na loke asmin ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
Chinno.pi rohati taruH kShINo.pyupachIyate chandraH ।
iti vimRushantassantaH santapyante na loke.smin ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

ChinnaH api rohati taruH kShINaH api upachIyate chandraH ।

iti vimRushantaH santaH santapyante na loke asmin ॥

June 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अन्यस्य दोषं पश्यन्ति सुसूक्ष्ममपि तत्पराः ।
स्वनेत्रमिव नेक्षन्ते स्वदोषं मलिना जनाः ॥
-रामायणमञ्जरी, किष्किन्धाकाण्ड


Transliteration:
anyasya doṣaṃ paśyanti susūkṣmamapi tatparāḥ ।
svanetramiva nekṣante svadoṣaṃ malinā janāḥ ॥
-rāmāyaṇamañjarī, kiṣkindhākāṇḍa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

People look intently for the smallest of faults in others. Just as one cannot see the dirt in his own eyes, impure-minded people can not see their own follies.

Commentary:

Finding faults in others is the easiest task and it is up for taking by one and all! If one falters on the smallest thing, everyone around him will soon rush to point fingers at him and offer free, generous advice, too! People have a microscopic vision when it comes to the shortcomings of others, but not even a telescopic one when it comes to themselves! They scrutinize others keenly to find more faults. However, while they are in the same exact circumstance, things just seem different to them. There always is a justification for their actions! There is always an explanation!! 

When something is too close to one's eye, it is very difficult to notice it. The view is obstructed and the field of view, constricted. Just as one can not see the dirt in his own eye, he is blind to his own follies.

People are blind to their own defects! Set your sights high and keep an eye on yourself, with respect to your own mistakes.

pada vigrahaH:

अन्यस्य दोषं पश्यन्ति सुसूक्ष्मम् अपि तत्पराः ।
anyasya doShaM pashyanti susUkShmam api tatparaaH ।

स्व-नेत्रम् इव न ईक्षन्ते स्व-दोषं मलिनाः जनाः ॥
sva-netram iva na īkṣante sva-doṣaṃ malināḥ janāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anyasya doShaM pashyanti susUkShmamapi tatparaaH ।
svanetramiva nekShante svadoShaM malinaa janaaH ॥
raamaayaNama~njarI, kiShkindhaakaaNDa

anyasya doṣaṃ paśyanti susūkṣmam api tatparāḥ ।

sva-netram iva na IkShante sva-doShaM malinaaH janaaH ॥

June 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पश्य क्रमवशात् प्राप्‍तं भोज्यकालेऽपि भोजनम् ।
हस्तोद्यमं विना वक्त्रे प्रविशेन्न कथञ्चन ॥
- पञ्चतन्त्र


Transliteration:
paśya kramavaśāt prāp‍taṃ bhojyakāle'pi bhojanam ।
hastodyamaṃ vinā vaktre praviśenna kathañcana ॥
- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Behold that everything is achieved gradually (through one's own efforts). Even at mealtime, without the effort of the hand in putting the food into the mouth, food will not be available.

Commentary:

Without putting in an effort, there will be no result. 

Even in an action as simple as eating one's own food, the effort of his hand is essential for the food on the plate to reach his mouth. Nothing comes for free. The only place 'success' comes before 'work' is, the dictionary (because 's' comes before 'w')! 

One must work hard to achieve anything in life. Only then will he understand the value of the results. Anything that is not taxing, is easily taken for granted and squandered. When one understands the pain behind the gain, his attitude and approach towards life alters altogether.

Knowing is not enough, one must apply the knowledge. Willingness is not enough, one must strive towards achieving the goal!

pada vigrahaH:
पश्य क्रम-वशात् प्राप्‍तं भोज्य-काले अपि भोजनम् ।
paśya krama-vaśāt prāp‍taṃ bhojya-kāle api bhojanam ।

हस्त-उद्यमं विना वक्त्रे प्रविशेत् न कथञ्चन ॥
hasta-udyamaṃ vinā vaktre praviśet na kathañcana ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pashya kramavashaat praaptaM bhojyakaale.pi bhojanam ।
hastodyamaM vinaa vaktre pravishenna katha~nchana ॥
- pa~nchatantra

pashya krama-vashaat praaptaM bhojya-kaale api bhojanam ।

hasta-udyamaM vinaa vaktre pravishet na katha~nchana ॥

June 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टिनाशकः ॥
-सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭināśakaḥ ॥
-subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mother will never curse her child, no blemish will taint the earth, the noble do not harm others, God will not destroy His creation.

Commentary:

A mother does everything in her power and even beyond to make her children better than she ever was. She will work beyond her means, investing both her heart and effort. After all that, could she ever have the heart to curse her child? The best well-wisher a child could ever have is his mother!

Mother Earth is considered the most forgiving. No matter how much man exploits her, she has tolerance. In recent times, we hear slogans everywhere—save the earth! Truth is, in a few centuries from now, the earth will still be here. It is the human species that needs saving from making itself extinct by abusing the resources! No amount of extortion will blemish the earth.

Those who are truly noble from the bottom of their hearts will never inflict harm on others. They are ever-compassionate and work tirelessly towards the betterment of those around them. How can such people involve themselves in hurting others?!

Likewise, God never destroys his own creation! All the natural calamities, apocalypses, etc., might look like destruction but in reality, it is dissolution. He does everything with a higher good in mind. There is always something better to come one way or another. He will take care of everyone here and hereafter! Our ignorance about this fact doesn't mean that God is destroying His own creation. Just as a mother won't hurt her child, God, the creator of the whole universe, won't put a dent in his creation with destructive intent. Everything dissolves and when the right time comes, everything resolves too! 

Faith is trusting God even when you don't understand His plan. He is there to protect the smallest insect, to the largest of creatures. Keep the faith! 

pada vigrahaH:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।

न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टि-नाशकः ॥
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭi-nāśakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।
na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTinaashakaH ॥
-subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।

na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTi-naashakaH ॥

June 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नाकाले म्रियते जन्तुः विद्धः शरशतैरपि ।
कुशकण्टकविद्धोऽपि प्राप्‍तकालो न जीवति ॥
- महाभारत

Transliteration:
nākāle mriyate jantuḥ viddhaḥ śaraśatairapi ।
kuśakaṇṭakaviddho'pi prāp‍takālo na jīvati ॥
- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A living being, even when pierced by a hundred arrows, will not die if it is not its time. Come its time, it will not survive even the touch of a straw thorn.

Commentary:

It's all in good time! Each and every being comes to this world with his very own baggage. One has to run out of all the deeds and actions that are meant to be exhausted in that life. When the purpose of his life has not been achieved, no matter what happens, he is going to live. 

Time and again, we have heard or seen that some people survived the deadliest crash or came out of the worst epidemic, etc. These are examples of the very fact that their life's purpose has not been attained yet. The verse says that if the time is not ripe, he will live through to see another sunrise even if pierced by a hundred arrows.

On the contrary, if his assignment here is done, nothing or nobody has the ability to hold him back. When his time is up, no reason is necessary. A healthy person could drop dead in an instant. Sometimes, a person who has survived the most impossible circumstances could pass on due to most trivial of reasons. He could trip on a pebble and die. Or, as the verse says, he could be pricked by a strand of hay which becomes the reason for his death. These become only 'nimitta-mātra' (mere causes)—means to an end, so to speak—figuratively and literally!

Hence, there is no point in living life in perpetual fear of death. It is inevitable and there is nothing one can do about it! Shouldn't we live life to the fullest when we are alive?! That's why someone once said, “If you can't change your fate, change your attitude”. Think about it...

pada vigrahaH:
न अकाले म्रियते जन्तुः विद्धः शर-शतैः अपि ।
na akāle mriyate jantuḥ viddhaḥ śara-śataiḥ api ।

कुश-कण्टक-विद्धः अपि प्राप्‍त-कालः न जीवति ॥
kuśa-kaṇṭaka-viddhaḥ api prāp‍ta-kālaḥ na jīvati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naakaale mriyate jantuH viddhaH sharashatairapi ।
kushakaNTakaviddho.pi praaptakaalo na jIvati ॥
- mahaabhaarata

na akaale mriyate jantuH viddhaH shara-shataiH api ।

kusha-kaNTaka-viddhaH api praapta-kaalah na jIvati ॥