November 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
षडेते ह्यवमन्यन्ते नित्यं पूर्वोपकारिणां
आचार्यं शिक्षिताः शिष्याः कृतदाराश्च मातरम् ।
नारीं विगतकामस्तु कृतार्थश्च प्रयोजकं
नावं निस्तीर्णकान्तारा अनातुराश्च चिकित्सितम् ॥
- विदुरनीति

Transliteration:
ṣaṭ ete hi avamanyante nityaṃ pūrva upakāriṇāṃ
ācāryaṃ śikṣitāḥ śiṣyāḥ kṛtadārāḥ ca mātaram ।
nārīṃ vigata-kāmaḥ tu kṛta-arthaḥ ca prayojakaṃ
nāvaṃ nistīrṇa-kāntārāḥ anāturāḥ ca cikitsitam ॥
- viduranīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

These six people show disrespect to those who have been their benefactors earlier: a student who has already learned to his teacher; a married man to his mother; a lustless man to a woman; one whose motive has been fulfilled to the benefactor; a person who has crossed a difficult river to the boat; a fully recovered person to the doctor. 

Commentary:

When one tolerates disrespect, he only diminishes his self-worth. 

A man who has no lust has no desire for a woman. After crossing a river, no one takes the boat home to honor it. However, some situations are different. When one receives assistance, the least he can offer in return is: gratitude. It is a sad reality that students sometimes show disrespect to their teachers. A son forgets the sacrifices his parents made for him when he finds a spouse. A patient, once healed, often forgets the doctor's skill and effort.  These are people who walk away without a word of thanks after receiving all the help they need. 

Such actions speak volumes about a person’s character. When someone disrespects you, the natural impulse is to try and win their respect.  In reality, it reflects their values rather than our worth.  It is better to distance ourselves from those who hold such shallow values. The most effective way to end disrespect is not giving them the chance to do it again! 

Children who are allowed to be disrespectful to their parents will never have true respect for anyone. We must never take others for granted, no matter how much they love us. Sooner or later, even the most patient will tire. 

Disrespect is never justified. Above all, we must never disrespect those who stood by us in our times of need.  The more we embrace gratitude, the more life offers reasons to be thankful for.  

pada vigrahaH:
षट् एते हि अवमन्यन्ते नित्यं पूर्व उपकारिणां
ṣaṭ ete hi avamanyante nityaṃ pūrva upakāriṇāṃ

आचार्यं शिक्षिताः शिष्याः कृतदाराः च मातरम् ।
ācāryaṃ śikṣitāḥ śiṣyāḥ kṛtadārāḥ ca mātaram ।

नारीं विगत-कामः तु कृत-अर्थः च प्रयोजकं
nārīṃ vigata-kāmaḥ tu kṛta-arthaḥ ca prayojakaṃ

नावं निस्तीर्ण-कान्ताराः अनातुराः च चिकित्सितम् ॥
nāvaṃ nistīrṇa-kāntārāḥ anāturāḥ ca cikitsitam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ShaDete hyavamanyante nityaM poorvopakaariNaaM
aachaaryaM shikShitaaH shiShyaaH kRutadaaraashcha maataram ।
naareeM vigatakaamastu kRutaarthashcha prayojakaM
naavaM nisteerNakaantaaraa anaaturaashcha chikitsitam ॥
- viduranIti

ShaT ete hi avamanyante nityaM poorva upakaariNaaM
aachaaryaM shikShitaaH shiShyaaH kRutadaaraaH cha maataram ।
naareeM vigata-kaamaH tu kRuta-arthaH cha prayojakaM
naavaM nisteerNa-kaantaaraaH anaaturaaH cha chikitsitam ॥

November 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

शुचित्वं त्यागिता शौर्यं समानसुखदुःखता ।

दाक्षिण्यं चानुरक्तिश्च सत्यता च सुहृद्गुणाः ॥

- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:

śucitvaṃ tyāgitā śauryaṃ samānasukhaduḥkhatā ।

dākṣiṇyaṃ cānuraktiśca satyatā ca suhṛdguṇāḥ ॥

- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Purity, generosity, courage, equanimity in pleasure and pain, kindness, affection, and honesty—these are the characteristics of a friend. 

Commentary:

In this world, there are friends and there is family. Then there are friends who transcend both to become family in their own right.  They are characterized by their purity, generosity, courage, equanimity in pleasure and pain, kindness, affection, and honesty.  

Friendship is perhaps the most difficult of bonds to define. Unlike the formal ties of other relationships, it has no official seal and no prescribed structure. It is not something we are born with or born into—it is something that blossoms from our own choosing!

A friend is one who not only accepts us as we are but gives us the space to truly be free. Through that freedom, they help shape us into who we are meant to become. A true friend is the one who walks in when the world has walked out.

They are a mirror, reflecting our truest selves, yet they also gently point out our flaws with love, kindness, and honesty. A friend is someone whose intentions are pure, whose generosity is boundless, and whose courage is unwavering.

A true friend is not there only in the joy of bright days, but especially in the darkest of times. For, no friend is perfect and those who seek perfection in friendship will find themselves alone. True friendship is when two souls can walk in opposite directions and still remain side by side.

It is these friends we meet along the way who help us understand the value of the journey. They may not always walk beside us, but they will always be there for us. In moments of joy, they make the good times richer; in moments of hardship, they make the burdens lighter. 

Birds of a feather flock together. True friendship is not merely found but nurtured through the very traits we embody.  The poet's aim is not only to guide us toward good friends but also to call upon us to cultivate the qualities in ourselves that make us worthy of such friendships.  

pada vigrahaH:

शुचित्वं त्यागिता शौर्यं समान-सुख-दुःखता ।

śucitvaṃ tyāgitā śauryaṃ samāna-sukha-duḥkhatā ।

दाक्षिण्यं च-अनुरक्तिः च सत्यता च सुहृत्-गुणाः ॥

dākṣiṇyaṃ ca-anuraktiḥ ca satyatā ca suhṛt-guṇāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

shucitvaM tyaagitaa shauryaM samaanasukhaduHkhataa |

daakShiNyaM chaanuraktishcha satyataa ca suhRudguNaaH ||

- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

shucitvaM tyaagitaa shauryaM samaana-sukha-duHkhataa |

daakShiNyaM cha-anuraktiH cha satyataa ca suhRut-guNaaH ||

October 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

शक्यो वारयितुं जलेन हुतभुक् छत्रेण सूर्यातपो 

नागेन्द्रो निशिताङ्कुशेन समदो दण्डेन गोगर्दभौ ।  

व्याधिर्भेषजसङ्ग्रहैश्च विविधैर्मन्त्रप्रयोगैर्विषं 

सर्वस्यौषधमस्ति शास्त्रविहितं मूर्खस्य नास्त्यौषधम् ॥

- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:

śakyo vārayituṃ jalena hutabhuk chatreṇa sūryātapo

nāgendro niśitāṅkuśena samado daṇḍena gogardabhau ।

vyādhirbheṣajasaṅgrahaiśca vividhairmantraprayogairviṣaṃ

sarvasyauṣadhamasti śāstravihitaṃ mūrkhasya nāstyauṣadham ॥

- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

It is possible to restrain fire with water; the sun's heat with an umbrella; a rutting elephant with a sharp goad; cattle and donkeys with a stick; diseases with a plethora of medicines; and poison with mantras too.  There is a remedy for everything as per shāstras (books of knowledge), but none for a fool! 

Commentary:

It is often said, “Never argue with a fool, for they will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.” 

This verse speaks of many scenarios that are difficult to deal with.  Fire is devastating—once it starts consuming things, it is almost unstoppable.  However, water can suppress it.  Though millions of miles away, the heat of the Sun can be unbearable.  Yet, it can be remediated with a handy umbrella.  It is not easy to restrain a rutting elephant, but a sharp goad will calm it down.  Donkeys and cattle wander where they please.  However, a stick in the hand of their keeper is enough to restore order.  Diseases are treated with a variety of medicines.  Even effects of poison are said to be cut with sacred syllables of specific mantras (viṣa-hṛnmantra—a mantra that can quell even snake poison).  

For everything, there is a remedy. Each affliction or challenge has its antidote, cure, or countermeasure. Yet, there is one malady that no medicine can cure, no remedy can resolve, and no mantra can dispel. That malady is the foolishness of fools!

Wise people have problems, whereas foolish people have patterns—repetitive, relentless, and unchanging. They keep repeating their mistakes and expect to get a different outcome.   Reason, logic, and persuasion hold no sway over them. 

To argue with a fool is to ensure that there are now two fools in the conversation! As the saying goes, "When you wrestle with a pig, you both get dirty, but the pig enjoys it." The best way to convince a fool is to let him have his own way! He has to work out his foolishness in his own time—if and when he chooses. 

Fools are beyond redemption—there is no swift cure for their delusions.  It is not easy to separate fools from their foolishness.   It is best to separate ourselves from the fools and better yet, to make sure we do not imbibe the traits that we so easily condemn in others. 

pada vigrahaH:

शक्यः वारयितुं जलेन हुतभुक् छत्रेण सूर्य-आतपः

śakyaḥ vārayituṃ jalena hutabhuk chatreṇa sūrya-ātapaḥ

नागेन्द्रः निशित-अङ्कुशेन समदः दण्डेन गो-गर्दभौ ।

nāgendraḥ niśita-aṅkuśena samadaḥ daṇḍena go-gardabhau । 

व्याधिः भेषज-सङ्ग्रहैः च विविधैः मन्त्र-प्रयोगैः विषं

vyādhiḥ bheṣaja-saṅgrahaiḥ ca vividhaiḥ mantra-prayogaiḥ viṣaṃ

सर्वस्य औषधम् अस्ति शास्त्र-विहितं मूर्खस्य न अस्ति औषधम् ॥

sarvasya auṣadham asti śāstra-vihitaṃ mūrkhasya na asti auṣadham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

shakyo vaarayituM jalena hutabhuk ChatreNa sooryaatapo

naagendro nishitaa~nkushena samado daNDena gogardabhau |

vyaadhirbheShajasa~ngrahaishcha vividhairmantraprayogairviShaM

sarvasyauShadhamasti shaastravihitaM moorkhasya naastyauShadham ||

- neetishataka

shakyaH vaarayituM jalena hutabhuk ChatreNa soorya-aatapaH

naagendraH nishita-a~nkushena samadaH daNDena go-gardabhau |

vyaadhiH bheShaja-sa~ngrahaiH cha vividhaiH mantra-prayogaiH viShaM

sarvasya auShadham asti shaastra-vihitaM moorkhasya na asti auShadham ||

October 9th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

शनैरर्थः शनैः पन्थाः शनैः पर्वतमारुहेत् । 

शनैर्विद्या च धर्मश्च व्यायामश्च शनैः शनैः ॥

Transliteration:

śanairarthaḥ śanaiḥ panthāḥ śanaiḥ parvatamāruhet ।

śanairvidyā ca dharmaśca vyāyāmaśca śanaiḥ śanaiḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Wealth (is accumulated) steadily, travel (is done) slowly, a mountain is climbed step-by-step, knowledge (is accrued) progressively and so is dharma, and exercise too, (is done) slowly.  

Commentary:

Haste makes waste!

In many aspects of life, speed is irrelevant; what truly matters is that we keep moving forward, without retreating. There is a reason this wisdom endures: it is not about how fast we accomplish things, but how deeply we immerse ourselves in the process.

Wealth isn’t built in a day. It is the quiet outcome of saving, little by little, over time. Traveling in a hurry may fill a checklist of destinations, but it robs us of the joy of soaking in the culture, the heartbeat of each place. Rushing to scale a mountain only exhausts the climber at the base, leaving no energy for the summit.

Similarly, knowledge is not something to skim over; it requires time to settle into the folds of our understanding. Dharma—living a virtuous life—can’t be achieved in one swift moment. It is not a task to be ticked off a list but a lifelong pursuit, a process that demands continuous effort.

Exercise teaches us the same truth: it is not just a matter of bending the body but straightening the mind. It is a harmony between breath and movement. Strength does not come from a sudden burst of effort but from gradual, mindful practice.

Patience is the essence of life itself. Nature works at her own deliberate pace. A seed takes its time to sprout. A sapling grows little by little, gaining strength before it flowers. Those flowers eventually transform into seeds, once more—step by step, the cycle renews.

When we rush, we miss the scenery. Worse, we lose sight of our destination and purpose. The temptation to skip steps often overwhelms us, making the task seem insurmountable and tempting us to give up. So, taking time is a necessary skill.   

Work steadily and with purpose and never regress. In the end, it is not the swift who prevail, but those who persevere, slowly and steadily. After all, that is the only race worth winning.

pada vigrahaH:

शनैः अर्थः शनैः पन्थाः शनैः पर्वतमारुहेत् ।

śanaiḥ arthaḥ śanaiḥ panthāḥ śanaiḥ parvatam-āruhet ।

शनैः विद्या च धर्मः च व्यायामः च शनैः शनैः ॥

śanaiḥ vidyā ca dharmaḥ ca vyāyāmaḥ ca śanaiḥ śanaiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

shanairarthaH shanaiH panthaaH shanaiH parvatamaaruhet |

shanairvidyaa ca dharmashcha vyaayaamashcha shanaiH shanaiH ||

shanaiH arthaH shanaiH panthaaH shanaiH parvatamaaruhet |

shanaiH vidyaa cha dharmaH cha vyaayaamaH cha shanaiH shanaiH ||

September 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

श्रद्धायत्नौ यदि स्यात्तां मेधया किं प्रयोजनम् ।

इत्युभौ यदि न स्यात्तां मेधया किं प्रयोजनम् ॥ 

Transliteration:

śraddhāyatnau yadi syāttāṃ medhayā kiṃ prayojanam ।

ityubhau yadi na syāttāṃ medhayā kiṃ prayojanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

For those who have faith and zeal to work, of what use is knowledge?!  Then again, if one doesn't have these two (faith and zeal), of what use is knowledge?!  

Commentary:

Does this mean knowledge is unnecessary?!  Not really! 

This verse emphasizes that knowledge can be gained over time with faith and effort. When one has a keen interest and combines it with dedication knowledge follows naturally. Thus, a person does not need to possess a complete understanding of the subject before embarking on a journey.

Conversely, for someone lacking the energy and confidence to initiate any venture, for what good is knowledge to such a person? Without these two essential qualities, knowledge becomes futile and meaningless, reduced to a mere word jargon in one’s mind.

This illustrates that though faith, effort, and knowledge are interconnected, faith and effort take precedence. One can acquire knowledge along the way, and it is unwise to wait until one has exhaustive knowledge before starting any undertaking.

Faith and hard work always pay off! Patience acts as the glue that binds these two together. This combination is the best approach to materialize any endeavor and acquire knowledge through experience in due time.

pada vigrahaH:

श्रद्धा-यत्नौ यदि स्यात् तां मेधया किं प्रयोजनम् ।

śraddhā-yatnau yadi syāt tāṃ medhayā kiṃ prayojanam । 

इति उभौ यदि न स्यात् तां मेधया किं प्रयोजनम् ॥

iti ubhau yadi na syāt tāṃ medhayā kiṃ prayojanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

shraddhaayatnau yadi syaattaaM medhayaa kiM prayojanam ।

ityubhau yadi na syaattaaM medhayaa kiM prayojanam ॥

shraddhaa-yatnau yadi syaat taaM medhayaa kiM prayojanam ।

iti ubhau yadi na syaat taaM medhayaa kiM prayojanam ॥

September 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शमार्थं सर्वशास्त्राणि विहितानि मनीषिभिः ।
स एव सर्वशास्त्रज्ञः यस्य शान्तं मनः सदा ॥
- महाभारत

Transliteration:
śamārthaṃ sarvaśāstrāṇi vihitāni manīṣibhiḥ ।
sa eva sarvaśāstrajñaḥ yasya śāntaṃ manaḥ sadā ॥
- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The learned contrived all the śāstras (scriptures, treatises) to quieten the mind.  He alone is cognizant of all śāstras whose mind is calm, at all times.

Commentary:

It is said that data is not information, information is not knowledge, knowledge is not understanding, and understanding is not wisdom.  Gaining wisdom is the very purpose of reading treatises or scriptures.  

The very purpose of the seers of those treatises is to teach the reader 'how to quieten the mind'.  All the śāstras proclaim the same key factor—quietening of the mind.  It is like many rivers flowing, all with the same purpose of pouring into the mighty ocean.  If one has already reached the ocean, why would he be required to know the flow of the river?  Hence, the poet says, he who already knows how to keep the mind calm and placid has true cognizance and mastery over all the śāstras!  He does not have to read any śāstras or work towards achieving a specific goal in life.  He would have already achieved the purpose of any being's reason for existence! 

Each one of us is running in search of ONE THING—the tranquility of mind, all else shall follow.  He who has won that fort has no battle to fight, nothing else to achieve!  May each of us find inner peace soon.  It will surely make the noisy world a much quieter and more serene place to be in!

pada vigrahaH:
शम-अर्थं सर्व-शास्त्राणि विहितानि मनीषिभिः ।
śama-arthaṃ sarva-śāstrāṇi vihitāni manīṣibhiḥ ।

सः एव सर्व-शास्त्रज्ञः यस्य शान्तं मनः सदा ॥
saḥ eva sarva-śāstrajñaḥ yasya śāntaṃ manaḥ sadā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shamaarthaM sarvashaastraaNi vihitaani manIShibhiH ।
saH eva sarvashaastraj~naH yasya shaantaM manaH sadaa ॥
- mahaabhaarata

shama-arthaM sarva-shaastraaNi vihitaani manIShibhiH ।

sa eva sarva-shaastraj~naH yasya shaantaM manaH sadaa ॥

April 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
श्रीमानजननिन्द्यश्च शूरश्चाप्यविकत्थनः ।
समदृष्टिः प्रभुश्चैव दुर्लभाः पुरुषास्त्रयः ॥
- योगवासिष्ठ, वैराग्य

Transliteration:
śrīmānajananindyaśca śūraścāpyavikatthanaḥ ।
samadṛṣṭiḥ prabhuścaiva durlabhāḥ puruṣāstrayaḥ ॥
- yogavāsiṣṭha, vairāgya

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A wealthy man who is not blamed, a valiant man who is not pompous, a leader who is not prejudiced—these 3 people are rare to find!

Commentary:

A wealthy man, irrespective of whether he gained his wealth by just or unjust means gets rebuked.  He gets blamed for one reason or another—earning unjustly, not doing enough good with his affluence, or being overly lucky!  Rare is a man who gets applauded for his abundance and also his attitude towards his fortune.

If one is courageous, chances are, he is proud of his valiance and recounts his valor every chance he gets to anyone who will listen!  Humility in conjunction with heroism is a rare commodity.  How often do we come across a Rāma or a Hanumān?!

When one has power in his hands, arrogance goes to the head!  Misuse of power, prejudice towards kith and kin, and bias towards the lowly and helpless—these become his main attributes.  It is said, 'a politician thinks of the next election, whereas a statesman thinks of the next generation!'  It is rare to see someone with power in his hands and a level head on his shoulders.  A true leader is one who views all his subjects equally!  This is a virtue of rarity in itself.  He who possesses this is a true statesman. 

Inculcate the right traits when blessed with opportunities and privileges.

pada vigrahaH:
श्रीमान् अ-जन-निन्द्यः च शूरः च अपि अ-विकत्थनः ।
śrīmān a-jana-nindyaḥ ca śūraḥ ca api a-vikatthanaḥ ।

सम-दृष्टिः प्रभुः च एव दुर्लभाः पुरुषाः त्रयः ॥
sama-dṛṣṭiḥ prabhuḥ ca eva durlabhāḥ puruṣāḥ trayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shrImaanajananindyashcha shUrashchaapyavikatthanaH ।
samadRuShTiH prabhushchaiva durlabhaaH puruShaastrayaH ॥
- yogavaasiShTha, vairaagya

shrImaan a-jana-nindyaH cha shUraH cha api a-vikatthanaH ।

sama-dRuShTiH prabhuH cha eva durlabhaaH puruShaaH trayaH ॥

November 5th

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

Transliteration:
śubhaṃ karoti kalyāṇam ārogyaṃ dhanasampadā ।
śatrubuddhivināśāya dīpajyotirnamostute ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

shubhaM karoti kalyaaNam aarogyaM dhana-sampadaa  ।

shatru-buddhi-vinaashaaya deepa-jyotiH namostu te ॥

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 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 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 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 ॥

August 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
श्रुत्वा धर्मं विजानाति श्रुत्वा त्यजति दुर्मतिम् ।
श्रुत्वा ज्ञानमवाप्नोति श्रुत्वा मोक्षमवाप्नुयात् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
śrutvā dharmaṃ vijānāti śrutvā tyajati durmatim ।
śrutvā jñānamavāpnoti śrutvā mokṣamavāpnuyāt ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

By heeding to dharma, one understands; by hearing dharma, one quits his bad disposition; by comprehending dharma, one attains knowledge (awareness); by listening to dharma, one attains salvation.

Commentary:

श्रवणम् (śravaṇam) of धर्म (dharma—virtue) can be described as heeding, hearing, comprehending, or listening to virtue.

The essence of life is best understood by heeding dharma. Without following the path of virtue, one cannot grasp life’s true meaning.

By speaking and listening to dharma, one’s thoughts and dispositions are purified. Negative intentions and base instincts are diminished to insignificance, allowing the mind to attain purity.

When one fully understands and comprehends dharma in its truest sense, he achieves the highest form of knowledge. There is nothing greater or more fulfilling than this.

Listening to dharma can lead to the attainment of everything one seeks—happiness in the present and future, and ultimately, salvation. The path of dharma is the gateway to liberation.

The greatest virtues are those that bring the most benefit to others. Embrace virtue—be virtuous!

pada vigrahaH:
श्रुत्वा धर्मं विजानाति श्रुत्वा त्यजति दुर्-मतिम् ।
śrutvā dharmaṃ vijānāti śrutvā tyajati dur-matim ।

श्रुत्वा ज्ञानम् अवाप्नोति श्रुत्वा मोक्षम् अवाप्नुयात् ॥
śrutvā jñānam avāpnoti śrutvā mokṣam avāpnuyāt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shrutvaa dharmaM vijaanaati shrutvaa tyajati durmatim ।
shrutvaa j~naanamavaapnoti shrutvaa mokShamavaapnuyaat ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

shrutvaa dharmam vijaanaati shrutvaa tyajati dur-matim ।

shrutvaa j~naanam avaapnoti shrutvaa mokSham avaapnuyaat ॥

August 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शान्तितुल्यं तपो नास्ति न सन्तोषात्परं सुखम् ।
न तृष्णायाः परो व्याधिः न च धर्मो दयापरः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
śāntitulyaṃ tapo nāsti na santoṣātparaṃ sukham ।
na tṛṣṇāyāḥ paro vyādhiḥ na ca dharmo dayāparaḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There is no penance equal to peace; no pleasure beyond satisfaction; no disease is worse than greed; no virtue better than compassion.

Commentary:

One doesn't have to do eons of penance if his actions bring about peace. If his thoughts are driven towards keeping the peace in every aspect of life around him, that is the biggest penance!

Big houses, fancy jewelery and multiple vehicles are not the means of pleasure. If one is satisfied with what he has, there is no pleasure beyond that.

Infliction of disease is no fun for anyone. The biggest and worst of all diseases is greed! The unquenchable thirst and the 'want' to possess more is the hardest of all illnesses to cure.

Compassion is one virtue that gives one the vision of ekatva (oneness) among all beings. If one inculcates this attribute, it is the best form of dharma (virtue). If one can have compassion for other beings at all times without any reservations, he is following the path of dharma always!

Acquire these essential skills that outweigh all other abilities!

pada vigrahaH:
शान्ति-तुल्यं तपः न अस्ति न सन्तोषात् परं सुखम् ।
śānti-tulyaṃ tapaḥ na asti na santoṣāt paraṃ sukham ।

न तृष्णायाः परः व्याधिः न च धर्मः दया-अपरः ॥

na tṛṣṇāyāḥ paraḥ vyādhiḥ na ca dharmaḥ dayā-aparaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shaantitulyaM tapo naasti na santoShaatparaM sukham ।
na tRuShNaayaaH paro vyaadhiH na cha dharmo dayaaparaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

shaanti-tulyaM tapaH na asti na santoShaat paraM sukham ।

na tRuShNaayaaH paraH vyaadhiH na cha dharmaH dayaa-aparaH ॥

July 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शयानं चानुशयति तिष्ठन्तं चानुतिष्ठति ।
अनुधावति धावन्तं कर्म पूर्वकृतं नरम् ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि


Transliteration:
śayānaṃ cānuśayati tiṣṭhantaṃ cānutiṣṭhati ।
anudhāvati dhāvantaṃ karma pūrvakṛtaṃ naram ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The fruits of deeds of the past follow a being in his sleep, follow him when standing, (and) follow when running.  (No respite!)

Commentary:
One may be amidst a hundred friends and still feel lonely, or he may think he is all alone, by himself. But in reality, he is never alone.

There is something that follows him better than a shadow! A shadow follows him only when there is light in the vicinity. This is better than that because it follows him without any conditions or exceptions! 

That unrelenting companion is the fruit of his past deeds. It follows him through every moment of his life. It sleeps with him, stands with him, and even runs with him if he runs! Can one ask for any company more constant than that?! Whether he wants it or not, whether he likes it or not, it is present with him all the time.

If one wants pleasant company, then he should probably invest more in doing good deeds.

pada vigrahaH:
शयानं च अनुशयति तिष्ठन्तं च अनु-तिष्ठति ।
śayānaṃ ca anuśayati tiṣṭhantaṃ ca anu-tiṣṭhati ।

अनु-धावति धावन्तं कर्म पूर्व-कृतं नरम् ॥
anu-dhāvati dhāvantaṃ karma pūrva-kṛtaṃ naram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shayaanaM chaanushayati tiShThantaM chaanutiShThati ।
anudhaavati dhaavantaM karma pUrvakRutaM naram ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

shayaanaM cha anushayati tiShThantaM cha anu-tiShThati ।

anu-dhaavati dhaavantaM karma pUrva-kRutaM naram ॥

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 these 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 sleeping but also compromises 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 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 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 smile to putting 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 in 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 brain's appetite than by 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, even when there were no mediums to write. 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! It is very appropriately said, "I am learning all the time. My tombstone will be my diploma."  There is no ending to learning. Honestly, one's life is too short to do 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 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 in 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 by the beautification of the visible body.

However, learned people 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, it will not help him cross the river.  The crocodile will attack nonetheless! Such a 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 ॥

April 14th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शतेषु जायते शूरः सहस्रेषु च पण्डितः ।
वक्ता दशसहस्रेषु दाता भवति वा न वा ॥
- व्यासस्मृति


Transliteration:
śateṣu jāyate śūraḥ sahasreṣu ca paṇḍitaḥ ।
vaktā daśasahasreṣu dātā bhavati vā na vā ॥
- vyāsasmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Among a hundred a brave one is born, among a thousand a scholar, and among ten thousand an orator.  Does a giver (even) exist or not?!

Commentary:

Not everyone born is brave enough to tackle all kinds of tasks. People have phobias ranging from claustrophobia (fear of enclosed small spaces) to hydrophobia (fear of water) to a simple triskaidekaphobia (fear of number 13)! Hence, a truly brave person is one in a hundred.

Anyone can be educated, but a true scholar is one in a thousand.

'Oration' is a skill in itself. One could be the most knowledgeable person, but when asked to present his ideas, he could become speechless!  Someone hilariously said, 'I'd rather be in the casket than give the eulogy!'  Fear of public speaking is that intense!  Not everyone has a flair for it.  One in ten thousand is born a good orator.

Then, the poet suspects if a true giver has ever been born or not! A true giver is one who 'gives and forgets' without prejudices. If such people are rarely born, then how can anyone write statistics as to "one in how many are born?!"

This is one verse where the poet would be pleased to be disproved!  Being generous is a rare trait and unfortunately, not many people inculcate it.  No one has ever become poor by giving. So, give and give generously!

pada vigrahaH:
शतेषु जायते शूरः सहस्रेषु च पण्डितः ।
śateṣu jāyate śūraḥ sahasreṣu ca paṇḍitaḥ ।

वक्ता दश-सहस्रेषु दाता भवति वा न वा ॥
vaktā daśa-sahasreṣu dātā bhavati vā na vā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shateShu jaayate shUraH sahasreShu cha paNDitaH ।
vaktaa dashasahasreShu daataa bhavati vaa na vaa ॥
- vyaasasmRuti

shateShu jaayate shUraH sahasreShu cha paNDitaH ।

vaktaa dasha-sahasreShu daataa bhavati vaa na vaa ॥

February 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
शोको नाशयते धैर्यं शोको नाशयते श्रुतम् ।
शोको नाशयते सर्वं नास्ति शोकसमो रिपुः ॥
- रामायण, अयोध्याकाण्ड


Transliteration:
śoko nāśayate dhairyaṃ śoko nāśayate śrutam ।
śoko nāśayate sarvaṃ nāsti śokasamo ripuḥ ॥
- rāmāyaṇa, ayodhyākāṇḍa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Anguish extinguishes courage, anguish destroys discrimination, anguish ruins everything—there is no enemy comparable to anguish.

Commentary:

Do not cry over spilt milk!

Who is not familiar with anguish, grief, sorrow, worry, and pain?! These emotions, in all their different forms, are a part and parcel of life. But the difference becomes apparent in how one deals with it. One shouldn't let life's fleeting incidents bury him under their pressure. Hardships and bad times come and go in everyone's life. But if we don't pick ourselves up and dust ourselves off, then nobody else will do it for us. If we let sorrow take over, it will kill all courage to face life. Intellect succumbs to grief, every lesson learnt flies out the window, and more blunders come along. 

Anguish is not fruitful from any angle. It is an adversary to clear thinking. Hence, the verse says that worry is the biggest enemy in one's life! 

Don't worry, be happy!

pada vigrahaH:

शोकः नाशयते धैर्यं शोकः नाशयते श्रुतम् ।
śokaḥ nāśayate dhairyaṃ śokaḥ nāśayate śrutam ।

शोकः नाशयते सर्वं न अस्ति शोक-समः रिपुः ॥
śokaḥ nāśayate sarvaṃ na asti śoka-samaḥ ripuḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
shoko naashayate dhairyaM shoko naashayate shrutam ।
shoko naashayate sarvaM naasti shokasamo ripuH ॥
- raamaayaNa, ayodhyaakaaNDa

shokaH naashayate dhairyaM shokaH naashayate shrutam ।

shokaH naashayate sarvaM na asti shoka-samaH ripuH ॥