September 25th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

dharmaH yashaH nayaH daakShyaM manohaari subhaaShitam ।

ityaadi guNa-ratnaanaaM sa~ngrahI na avasIdati ॥

September 24th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

aatmaanaM rathinaM viddhi sharIraM ratham eva cha ।

buddhiM tu saarathiM viddhi manaH pragraham eva cha ॥

September 23rd

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

aachaaryaat paadam aadatte paadaM shiShyaH sva-medhayaa ।

kaalena paadam aadatte paadaM sabrahmachaaribhiH ||

September 22nd

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

avaj~nayaa na daatavyaM kasyachit lIlayaa api vaa ।

avaj~nayaa kRutaM hanyaat daataaraM na atra saMshayaH ॥

September 21st

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

shreyaaMsi bahu vighnaani bhavanti mahataam api ।

ashreyasi pravRuttaanaaM dUraM yaanti vinaayakaaH ॥

September 20th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

rohate saayakaiH viddhaM vanaM parashunaa hatam ।

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

September 19th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

Some dos and don'ts!

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

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

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

Choose the right tool, for the right trade!

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

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

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

shatroH api guNaaH vaachyaaH doShaaH vaachyaaH guroH api ।

sarvadaa sarva-yatnena putre shiShyavat aacharet ॥

September 18th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

viShasya viShayaaNaaM cha dUram atyantam antaram ।

upabhuktaM viShaM hanti viShayaaH smaraNaat api ॥

September 17th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

satya-anusaariNI lakShmIH kIrtiH tyaaga-anusaariNI ।

abhyaasa-saariNI vidyaa buddhiH karma-anusaariNI ॥

September 16th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

shanaiH shanaiH vinIyante tarjanaiH toShaNaiH api ।

navaaH iva ashvaaH kushalaiH baalaaH chapala-chetasaH ॥

September 15th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

duHkhe duHkha-adhikaan pashyet sukhe pashyet sukha-adhikaan ।

aatmaanaM shoka-harShaabhyaaM shatrubhyaam iva na arpayet ॥

September 14th

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

vaidyaanaaM shaaradI maataa pitaa cha kusumaakaraH ।

yama-damShTraa svasaa proktaa hitabhuk mitabhuk ripuH ॥

September 13th

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

rikta-paaNiH na pashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।

daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalam aadishet ॥

September 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अक्षराणि परीक्ष्यन्ताम् अम्बराडम्बरेण किम् ।
शंभुरम्बरहीनोऽपि सर्वज्ञः किं न कथ्यते ॥
- अप्पय्यदीक्षित


Transliteration:
akṣarāṇi parīkṣyantām ambarāḍambareṇa kim ।
śaṃbhurambarahīno'pi sarvajñaḥ kiṃ na kathyate ॥
- appayyadīkṣita

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Scrutinize based on vidyā.  What is the point in (examining) the flashy robes?! Even though He is digambara (one whose robes are the 4 directions), isn't Lord Shiva considered sarvajna (all-knowing)?!

Commentary:

Language is the dress of thought. One's mindset and thinking can be gauged through his speech. Working on that is a much better effort than time spent in improving superficial appearance and attire. One can be the best dressed in town, but the minute he opens his mouth to speak, his language can be foul, uncultured, uneducated, or misinformed! His clothes can earn him only so much value. But after that, his learning and the culture imbibed will weigh in.

Lord Shiva is never in flashy attire or jewelry. His robes are elephant/tiger skin, and snakes are His jewelry, at best! But isn't He worshipped and revered as all-knowing and all-pervading! It is His knowledge that carries more weight.  'akṣara' also means - immutable, imperishable.  Lord Shiva stands for immutable knowledge of the Self.  Our true identity is the same immortal Self!  Hence, a perishable body, its appearance, and its accessories don't come into account when the imperishable is given the highest regard!

There may be those who dress better or eat better.  However, those who enjoy and appreciate the value of learning, sleep better! Think about it—elegance is not as much in putting on a new dress as it is imbibing good values.

pada vigrahaH:
अक्षराणि परीक्ष्यन्ताम् अम्बर-आडम्बरेण किम् ।
akṣarāṇi parīkṣyantām ambara-āḍambareṇa kim ।

शंभुः अम्बर-हीनः अपि सर्वज्ञः किं न कथ्यते ॥
śaṃbhuḥ ambara-hīnaḥ api sarvajñaḥ kiṃ na kathyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akSharaaNi parIkShyantaam ambaraaDambareNa kim ।
shaMbhurambarahIno.pi sarvaj~naH kiM na kathyate ॥
- appayyadIkShita

akSharaaNi parIkShyantaam ambara-aaDambareNa kim ।

shaMbhuH ambara-hInaH api sarvaj~naH kiM na kathyate ॥

September 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सर्वतीर्थमयी माता सर्वदेवमयः पिता ।
मातरं पितरं तस्मात् सर्वयत्नेन पूजयेत् ॥

Transliteration:
sarvatīrthamayī mātā sarvadevamayaḥ pitā ।
mātaraṃ pitaraṃ tasmāt sarvayatnena pūjayet ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mother is an embodiment of all pilgrimages, (and) a father is an embodiment of all deities. Hence, revere mother and father with all efforts.

Commentary:

Everyone desires good karmaphala (the fruits of their actions). To attain the same virtues as visiting all the holy places, one need only revere their mother. A father embodies all the deities, as he is the reason we exist in this world. It’s hard to imagine life without their nurture and care. Parents continually strive to give their children the best they can offer. There is no better well-wisher than parents!

That is why even Lord Gaṇeśa, the remover of all obstacles, bowed to His parents! In a challenge posed by His parents, Lord Subrahmaṇya and Gaṇeśa were tasked with who could circumambulate the entire world first. Lord Subrahmaṇya immediately took off on His peacock, ready to circle the entire world. But Gaṇeśa, aware of His own speed, circled His parents, Pārvatī and Parameśvara, and prostrated before them. He had won the challenge! While parents may cherish their children, for children parents are the world.

Children are the most precious resource and the greatest hope for the future. Let parents pass on to their children, not wealth, but the spirit of reverence. May love and respect be the foundation of parenting. May children always honor their parents with devotion!

pada vigrahaH:
सर्व-तीर्थमयी माता सर्व-देवमयः पिता ।
sarva-tīrthamayī mātā sarva-devamayaḥ pitā ।

मातरं पितरं तस्मात् सर्व-यत्नेन पूजयेत् ॥
mātaraṃ pitaraṃ tasmāt sarva-yatnena pūjayet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sarvatIrthamayI maataa sarvadevamayaH pitaa ।
maataraM pitaraM tasmaat sarvayatnena pUjayet ॥

sarva-tIrthamayI maataa sarva-devamayaH pitaa ।

maataraM pitaraM tasmaat sarva-yatnena pUjayet ॥

September 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
तपः परं कृतयुगे त्रेतायां ज्ञानमुच्यते ।
द्वापरे यज्ञमित्यूचुः दानमेकं कलौ युगे ॥
- पराशरस्मृति


Transliteration:
tapaḥ paraṃ kṛtayuge tretāyāṃ jñānamucyate ।
dvāpare yajñamityūcuḥ dānamekaṃ kalau yuge ॥
- parāśarasmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In Kṛtayuga penance was best; in Tretāyuga, knowledge, it is said; they say fire sacrifices in the Dvāparayuga; in Kaliyuga, it is only giving.

Commentary:

Kṛtayuga, also known as Satyayuga, is the first of the four ages in the cosmic cycle. During this era, rigorous penances were considered the most rewarding. Dharma was firmly established, and to be virtuous, one had to undergo intense penances and meditation.

As dharma began to decline, the next era, Tretāyuga, arrived. In this age, liberation could be attained through the path of jñāna (knowledge). Learning the scriptures and leading a pious life became the foundations of virtue.

The further dilution of dharma led to Dvāparayuga, where performing sacrifices and offering gifts to deities through fire rituals were necessary to increase one’s virtues.

Finally, as dharma continued to wane, we entered the age of Kaliyuga. In this era, time is scarce, and values are easily compromised. One must work hard to stay focused amidst distractions and temptations. The ego is so dominant that to be virtuous, one need only give selflessly. Virtue has become simpler to attain—there’s no need for extreme penances, deep scriptural knowledge, or complex sacrifices. Simply giving up attachment to possessions and sharing generously with others is all that is required to be virtuous. Is that too much to ask?

Giving can take many forms: "If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart." Parting with possessions is not as important as the spirit in which you give. True giving comes from selflessness.

Give from the heart!

pada vigrahaH:
तपः परं कृत-युगे त्रेतायां ज्ञानम् उच्यते ।
tapaḥ paraṃ kṛta-yuge tretāyāṃ jñānam ucyate ।

द्वापरे यज्ञम् इति ऊचुः दानम् एकं कलौ युगे ॥
dvāpare yajñam iti ūcuḥ dānam ekaṃ kalau yuge ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
tapaH paraM kRutayuge tretaayaaM j~naanamuchyate ।
dvaapare yaj~namityUchuH daanamekaM kalau yuge ॥
- paraasharasmRuti

tapaH paraM kRuta-yuge tretaayaaM j~naanam uchyate ।

dvaapare yaj~nam iti UchuH daanam ekaM kalau yuge ॥

September 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
किमप्यस्ति स्वभावेन सुन्दरं वाप्यसुन्दरम् ।
यदेव रोचते यस्मै तद्भवेत्तस्य सुन्दरम् ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद


Transliteration:
kimapyasti svabhāvena sundaraṃ vāpyasundaram ।
yadeva rocate yasmai tadbhavettasya sundaram ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Is there anything beautiful or ugly inherently?!  Whatever appeals to whomever that looks beautiful to him.

Commentary:

Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder!

Nothing on this earth comes with a built-in 'beautiful' or 'ugly' tag. The inherent nature of anything does not include this label. In the creator's eye, everything is equally beautiful and each has its own special place and requirement in this world! Otherwise, He would not have put time and energy into creating it.

However, to the onlooker's eye, some things are appealing, some are not. No object is so beautiful that, it will not look ugly or vice versa. Who is the most beautiful person in this world? There is no way to answer this question. To someone, the person voted as the most beautiful in the world may not be as appealing as their simple-looking spouse! One does not love a person because of their beauty, rather, the person looks beautiful because of their love!

All said and done, physical beauty is only skin deep. The true beauty of a person comes from the inner depths of his existence. It is a blend of integrity, loyalty, modesty, kindness, humility, etc. Cultivate these traits to make yourself beautiful!

pada vigrahaH:
किम् अपि अस्ति स्वभावेन सुन्दरं वा अपि असुन्दरम् ।
kim api asti svabhāvena sundaraṃ vā api asundaram ।

यत् एव रोचते यस्मै तत् भवेत् तस्य सुन्दरम् ॥
yat eva rocate yasmai tat bhavet tasya sundaram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kimapyasti svabhaavena sundaraM vaapyasundaram ।
yadeva rochate yasmai tadbhavettasya sundaram ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

kim api asti svabhaavena sundaraM vaa api asundaram ।

yat eva rochate yasmai tat bhavet tasya sundaram ॥

September 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
क्षन्तव्यो मन्दबुद्धीनाम् अपराधो मनीषिणा ।
न हि सर्वत्र पाण्डित्यं सुलभं पुरुषे क्वचित् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:

kṣantavyo mandabuddhīnām aparādho manīṣiṇā ।
na hi sarvatra pāṇḍityaṃ sulabhaṃ puruṣe kvacit ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The follies of the dull-witted should be forgiven. For, erudition doesn't come easily to people everywhere.

Commentary:

Commonsense is not so common after all!  

Erudition and eloquence are divine blessings, not universally bestowed. Those fortunate enough to possess these gifts have little reason for pride, for intelligence is not an achievement but a grace granted. Equally, the learned must show patience toward the shortcomings of those less gifted, offering forgiveness where ignorance prevails. Scholarliness is but one of many virtues.

A wise person gains more insight from a foolish question than a fool gains from a wise answer. Learning is everywhere if we choose to see it. Even when faced with seemingly foolish questions, practice tolerance and compassion. Pray for the questioner’s growth in understanding and maturity, and take a moment to express gratitude for the wisdom you’ve been blessed with.

pada vigrahaH:
क्षन्तव्यः मन्द-बुद्धीनाम् अपराधः मनीषिणा ।
kṣantavyaḥ manda-buddhīnām aparādhaḥ manīṣiṇā ।

न हि सर्वत्र पाण्डित्यं सुलभं पुरुषे क्वचित् ॥
na hi sarvatra pāṇḍityaṃ sulabhaṃ puruṣe kvacit ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kShantavyo mandabuddhInaam aparaadho manIShiNaa ।
na hi sarvatra paaNDityaM sulabhaM puruShe kvachit ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

kShantavyaH manda-buddhInaam aparaadhaH manIShiNaa ।

na hi sarvatra paaNDityaM sulabhaM puruShe kvachit ॥

September 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
षट्कर्णो भिद्यते मन्त्रः चतुष्कर्णः स्थिरो भवेत् ।
द्विकर्णस्य च मन्त्रस्य ब्रह्माप्यन्तन्न गच्छति ॥

- पञ्चतन्त्र

Transliteration:
ṣaṭkarṇo bhidyate mantraḥ catuṣkarṇaḥ sthiro bhavet ।
dvikarṇasya ca mantrasya brahmāpyantanna gacchati ॥

- pañcatantra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is (heard) by six ears gets shattered; that which is (heard) by four ears gets affirmed. That which stays between the two ears, even Lord Brahma cannot get to the end of it!

Commentary:

Spells, thoughts, or secrets—once heard by six or more ears (the speaker and at least two others)—are bound to break. Despite humans having two ears and only one mouth, the tendency is often to talk more than listen. News and rumors spread faster than the wind, morphing as they pass from one person to another. Through additions, omissions, or exaggerations, a small incident can quickly become the talk of the town, often distorted far from the original truth.

What is heard by four ears (the speaker and one other person) tends to hold its strength. For example, when a guru imparts a mantra to a disciple, it is done as a whispered secret, enhancing its potency. On a practical level, sharing a thought with a parent, spouse, friend, or trusted advisor provides reassurance or a second opinion. Such individuals serve as sounding boards, helping one affirm or reconsider a course of action. This kind of validation is something we all need at times.

However, the fate of thoughts that remain between two ears (kept solely in one’s own mind) is beyond even Lord Brahma’s prediction! The mind is a labyrinth of complexities, capable of wandering in countless directions. The final outcome of an unspoken thought depends entirely on the individual’s mindset and state of mind at any given moment. The poet humorously suggests that even the Creator cannot foresee where such thoughts might lead.

In conclusion:

• If the intention is to publicize something, speak to at least two people—but remember, the version that spreads may not be your original one. And beware: he who gossips with you may also gossip about you.
• If you seek advice or reassurance, confide in someone you trust—a close friend, family member, or an expert in the field. However, keep in mind that affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion!
• If ultimate secrecy is your aim, say nothing at all. Even Lord Brahma won’t uncover what stays within.

The choice is yours!

pada vigrahaH:
षट्-कर्णः भिद्यते मन्त्रः चतुष्कर्णः स्थिरः भवेत् ।
ṣaṭ-karṇaḥ bhidyate mantraḥ catuṣkarṇaḥ sthiraḥ bhavet ।

द्वि-कर्णस्य च मन्त्रस्य ब्रह्मा अपि अन्तं न गच्छति ॥
dvi-karṇasya ca mantrasya brahmā api antaṃ na gacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ShaTkarNo bhidyate mantraH chatuShkarNaH sthiro bhavet ।
dvikarNasya cha mantrasya brahmaapyantanna gachChati ॥
- pa~nchatantra 

ShaT-karNaH bhidyate mantraH chatuShkarNaH sthiraH bhavet ।

dvi-karNasya cha mantrasya brahmaa api antaM na gachChati ॥

September 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
बलाद्दत्तं बलाद्भुक्तं बलद्यच्चापि लेखितम् ।
सर्वान् बलकृतानर्थान् अकृतान् मनुरब्रवीत् ॥
- मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
balāddattaṃ balādbhuktaṃ baladyaccāpi lekhitam ।
sarvān balakṛtānarthān akṛtān manurabravīt ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is given forcefully, that which is possessed (enjoyed) forcefully, also that which is written forcefully; all tasks extracted by force are wretched, said Manu.

Commentary:

Any action should be performed willingly! Force should not be the driving force behind any deed, or else it becomes futile.

Giving should be beneficial to the receiver. Giving something for the sake of giving and forcing the other to receive it 'no matter what' is a wasteful effort. It could be a material object, monetary help, or even a piece of advice for that matter—giving by force is not appreciated.

Taking by force is obviously not moral either.  Nobody wants anything snatched from them for any reason! Even eating under force can come under this umbrella.  No one relishes the food that he is forced to eat!  Just the power struggle can put off even a hungry man from wanting to eat.

Using strength to make one write anything is not useful either. Forcing someone to write "I shall not lie" a hundred times, does not instill genuine value for honesty in that person. One can be forced to sign away their property, but such an action would not hold up in a court of law. True thoughts and emotions are expressed only when there is freedom, not when threatened by force.

The poet Manu says that any task achieved through force is wretched. No good results (karma-phala) can come from such actions. Pressuring someone to yield to another's strength only breeds contempt and fear, neither of which contribute to the betterment of either individual. Force transforms one into a tyrant and the other into the threatened, stifling spiritual growth in both. It curtails the blossoming of the soul. So, what is the point of using unnecessary force?

Force may be all-conquering, but its victories are short-lived! It is wiser to plan for the long term.

pada vigrahaH:
बलात् दत्तं बलात् भुक्तं बलत् यत् च अपि लेखितम् ।
balāt dattaṃ balāt bhuktaṃ balat yat ca api lekhitam ।

सर्वान् बलकृतान् अर्थान् अकृतान् मनुः अब्रवीत् ॥
sarvān balakṛtān arthān akṛtān manuḥ abravīt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
balaaddattaM balaadbhuktaM baladyachchaapi lekhitam ।
sarvaan balakRutaanarthaan akRutaan manurabravIt ॥
- manusmRuti

balaat dattaM balaat bhuktaM balat yat cha api lekhitam ।

sarvaan balakRutaan arthaan akRutaan manuH abravIt ॥

September 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
देहे पातिनि का रक्षा यशो रक्ष्यमपातवत् ।
नरः पातितकायोऽपि यशःकायेन जीवति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
dehe pātini kā rakṣā yaśo rakṣyamapātavat ।
naraḥ pātitakāyo'pi yaśaḥkāyena jīvati ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Why protect the body that is bound to fall off?  Honor should be protected from falling. Even when the body is thrown, the being lives through his honor.

Commentary:

Immortality is not for the body. 

If one wishes to live eternally, the footprints he needs to leave behind are not his physical ones, but those of his deeds. Desirous of immortality, many beings have performed penances to live forever. We all have to die at one point or the other. What is the point of protecting the physical body that is eventually bound to be discarded? 

However, whether one is alive or not, the seeds of the deeds he has sown live on. His valor and honor never die. Not only his glory lives on but his deeds live on too. For, his life will prove to be an inspiration for many, for generations to come! This way, the society at large benefits not only from his deeds alone but also from the actions of those who are inspired by him. As such, he becomes immortal through his venerable actions!

What we do for ourselves fades away with us, but what we do for others and the world leaves a lasting legacy. That is true immortality. While death is inevitable for all, the aim should not be to live forever but to create something that will endure long after we're gone!

pada vigrahaH:
देहे पातिनि का रक्षा यशः रक्ष्यम् अपातवत् ।
dehe pātini kā rakṣā yaśaḥ rakṣyam apātavat ।

नरः पातित-कायः अपि यशः-कायेन जीवति ॥
naraḥ pātita-kāyaḥ api yaśaḥ-kāyena jīvati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
dehe paatini kaa rakShaa yasho rakShyamapaatavat ।
naraH paatitakaayo.pi yashaHkaayena jIvati ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

dehe paatini kaa rakShaa yashaH rakShyam apaatavat ।

naraH paatita-kaayaH api yashaH-kaayena jIvati ॥

September 4th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
मधु पश्यति मूढात्मा प्रपातं नैव पश्यति ।
करोति निन्दितं कर्म नरकान्न बिभेति च ॥
- देवीभागवत


Transliteration:
madhu paśyati mūḍhātmā prapātaṃ naiva paśyati ।
karoti ninditaṃ karma narakānna bibheti ca ॥
- devībhāgavata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The foolish one sees the honey but not the chasm (that he is falling into).  He performs despicable deeds and is not afraid of going to hell either!

Commentary:

The poet vividly portrays a foolish person who is so fixated on the honey in a hive perched atop a towering branch of a tree on a mountain that he fails to notice he is walking toward the edge of a cliff. The poet highlights that only a fool would be so blind to his surroundings. Here, the honey symbolizes the alluring worldly pleasures, while the cliff represents the inevitable pain and consequences they bring. Such thoughtless actions are despicable and should be avoided at all costs.

In real life, it is all too easy to slip from honorable and fall into despicable deeds. One must remain vigilant, constantly aware of his actions, and strive to avoid those that lack virtue. Scriptures warn that those who indulge in unworthy deeds will face dire consequences, often depicted as hell. A fool, despite knowing the immorality of his actions, is so entranced by the immediate allure—like the sweetness of honey—that he ignores the dangers ahead, just as the man walking toward the cliff overlooks the peril beneath him.

It is said, "Go to heaven for the climate and to hell for the company." Let this not be your fate! Each individual creates his own heaven or hell. Therefore, build your own heaven, and inspire those around you to do the same.

pada vigrahaH:
मधु पश्यति मूढ-आत्मा प्रपातं न एव पश्यति ।
madhu paśyati mūḍha-ātmā prapātaṃ na eva paśyati ।

करोति निन्दितं कर्म नरकात् न बिभेति च ॥
karoti ninditaṃ karma narakāt na bibheti ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
madhu pashyati mUDhaatmaa prapaataM naiva pashyati ।
karoti ninditaM karma narakaanna bibheti cha ॥
- devIbhaagavata

madhu pashyati mUDha-aatmaa prapaataM na eva pashyati ।

karoti ninditaM karma narakaat na bibheti cha ॥

September 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
साहित्यसङ्गीतकलाविहीनः 

साक्षात्पशुः पुच्छविषाणहीनः ।
तृणं न खादन्नपि जीवमानः 

तद्भागधेयं परमं पशूनाम् ॥
- नीतिशतक


Transliteration:
sāhityasaṅgītakalāvihīnaḥ 

sākṣātpaśuḥ pucchaviṣāṇahīnaḥ ।
tṛṇaṃ na khādannapi jīvamānaḥ 

tadbhāgadheyaṃ paramaṃ paśūnām ॥

- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

He who is devoid of (the knowledge of) literary compositions, music/melody or art forms, is an embodiment of an animal without a tail and horns. The animals are fortunate that he survives without eating up the grass (of their share)!

Commentary:

The poet asserts that those who lack knowledge of literature, and scriptures, or have no appreciation for music and the arts (collectively referred to as vidyā) are no better than animals—without a tail or horns, yet equally devoid of the higher faculties that define humanity. He goes further, humorously suggesting that real animals should be grateful, for humans who lack such knowledge don't even graze on their share of food!

The underlying message is clear: a human must not only appreciate various forms of art but also place a high value on learning itself, in all its dimensions. Vidyā, or knowledge, is the very attribute that distinguishes humans from animals. Without it, how different are we from the creatures of the wild?

Knowledge nourishes the soul, just as food nourishes the body. Feed your soul with wholesome knowledge, in abundant, divine portions.

pada vigrahaH:
साहित्य-सङ्गीत-कला-विहीनः 
sāhitya-saṅgīta-kalā-vihīnaḥ 

साक्षात् पशुः पुच्छ-विषाण-हीनः ।

sākṣāt paśuḥ puccha-viṣāṇa-hīnaḥ ।

तृणं न खादन्न् अपि जीवमानः 
tṛṇaṃ na khādann api jīvamānaḥ 

तत् भागधेयं परमं पशूनाम् ॥

tat bhāgadheyaṃ paramaṃ paśūnām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
saahityasa~ngItakalaavihInaH 

saakShaatpashuH puchChaviShaaNahInaH ।
tRuNaM na khaadannapi jIvamaanaH 

tadbhaagadheyaM paramaM pashUnaam ॥
- nItishataka

saahitya-sa~ngIta-kalaa-vihInaH 

saakShaat pashuH puchCha-viShaaNa-hInaH ।

tRuNaM na khaadann api jIvamaanaH 

tat bhaagadheyaM paramaM pashUnaam ॥

September 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सर्वेषामेव शौचानाम् अर्थशौचं परं स्मृतम् ।
योऽर्थे शुचिर्हि स शुचिः न मृद्वारिशुचिः शुचिः ॥
- मनुस्मृति

Transliteration:
sarveṣāmeva śaucānām arthaśaucaṃ paraṃ smṛtam ।
yo'rthe śucirhi sa śuciḥ na mṛdvāriśuciḥ śuciḥ ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Amongst all kinds of purities, purity in (the transaction of) wealth is deemed the highest. He who is clean in matters of money is only clean. Cleanliness is not achieved through bathing with mud and water. 

Commentary:

Money does not change people; it merely unmasks them!

The act of giving and receiving wealth should carry a spiritual essence. Taking wealth that does not belong to you is a crime. Regardless of the method, 'taking' wealth is equivalent to stealing! This not only burdens one's own karma (the fruit of actions) but also increases their ṛṇa (debt).

Those who handle money with clarity and integrity are seen as the most transparent and virtuous. In ancient times, mud was used as a scrub to cleanse the body, but even fragrant oils and perfumes offer only superficial cleanliness. Purity in dealings with wealth, however, is of a different order. It speaks to one's integrity and morals and is thus considered superior.

Wealth often comes at a high cost. Let not the price paid to acquire money be your solidarity or integrity!

pada vigrahaH:
सर्वेषाम् एव शौचानाम् अर्थ-शौचं परं स्मृतम् ।
sarveṣām eva śaucānām artha-śaucaṃ paraṃ smṛtam ।

यः अर्थे शुचिः हि सः शुचिः न मृत्-वारि-शुचिः शुचिः ॥
yaḥ arthe śuciḥ hi saḥ śuciḥ na mṛt-vāri-śuciḥ śuciḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sarveShaameva shauchaanaam arthashauchaM paraM smRutam ।
yo.rthe shuchirhi sa shuchiH na mRudvaarishuchiH shuchiH ॥
- manusmRuti

sarveShaam eva shauchaanaam artha-shauchaM paraM smRutam ।

yaH arthe shuchiH hi saH shuchiH na mRut-vaari-shuchiH shuchiH ॥

September 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यशोदया समा कापि देवता नास्ति भूतले ।
उलूखले यया बद्धः मुक्तिदो मुक्तिमिच्छति ॥

Transliteration:
yaśodayā samā kāpi devatā nāsti bhūtale ।
ulūkhale yayā baddhaḥ muktido muktimicchati ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no deity on this earth equal to Yaśodā. He who liberates everyone is pleading with her to release him from the mortar that she tied him to!!

Commentary:

Who else can claim that they had tied down the very person who is the liberator of all worlds?! Only Lord Krishna's mother Yaśodā can! Although she did not give birth to Him, she enjoyed the best of his childhood years!! She rocked Him to sleep, she held Him when He was hurt (or pretended to be hurt), she fed Him when He was hungry, and she watched Him when He playfully bothered the gopi-s of Vṛndāvana. She watched Him drink milk, and she caught Him stealing butter. She watched Him in His sleep, she kept an eye on Him when He was naughty. She hugged Him with love, and she punished Him when he was mischievous too!!

Once, she even tied Him up with a rope to a mortar, as she could not bear to hear any more complaints from the villagers about His mischiefs. The puppeteer that He is, He pretended to be bothered by the ropes and begged her to relieve Him of the ties! 

He who liberates one and all, from all kinds of bondage, implored Yaśodā to release Him!! Isn't she the most envied of all beings! She had one blissful and blessed life, where she enjoyed motherhood of the ultimate order!

It is said that the Lord takes incarnations and comes to Earth especially to experience motherly love!! Such is the greatness of a mother's affection—boundless, selfless, and pure, it nurtures and sustains life, a true reflection of divine love in this mortal world.

pada vigrahaH:
यशोदया समा का अपि देवता न अस्ति भूतले ।
yaśodayā samā kā api devatā na asti bhūtale ।

उलूखले यया बद्धः मुक्तिदः मुक्तिम् इच्छति ॥
ulūkhale yayā baddhaḥ muktidaḥ muktim icchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yashodayaa samaa kaapi devataa naasti bhUtale ।
ulUkhale yayaa baddhaH muktido muktimichChati ॥

yashodayaa samaa kaa api devataa na asti bhUtale ।

ulUkhale yayaa baddhaH muktidaH muktim ichChati ॥