October 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

क्षुत्तृषाशास्त्रयो दाराः मयि जीवति नान्यगाः ।

तसामाशा महासाध्वी मुञ्चन्तं मां न मुञ्चति ॥

- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:

kṣuttṛṣāśāstrayo dārāḥ mayi jīvati nānyagāḥ ।

tasāmāśā mahāsādhvī muñcantaṃ māṃ na muñcati ॥

- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

My 3 wives—hunger, thirst, and desire—will not go to anyone so long as I live.  Of them, desire is the greatest chaste one.  She won't leave me even when I am leaving! 

Commentary:

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.  This is the essence of a faithful marriage.  

This verse speaks of a union in the marriage of a person with his three loyal wives; all faithful companions—never abandoning him, never seeking another. However, only one of them deserves the title of 'the most devoted one'. The one that is willing to accompany him into a realm where no one can accompany another.  This wife will not leave him even when he is leaving the world!  

No matter how devoted a wife is to her husband, she has to stay behind at the time of his death.  The person in this verse says he has three inseparable wives—hunger, thirst, and desire. Among them, hunger and thirst will let up for a little while when they are satiated, but reunite with him in a few hours. Undoubtedly, the most steadfast of them all is desire.  Desire never stops! It only increases after it is satiated.  It also increases when fulfillment is postponed! Desire, once awakened, never lets go. 

Hunger and thirst die with the body, but desire follows the soul, reincarnating with each new life. It is the truest, and most loyal of companions, ensuring that peace remains elusive.  Desires are not fulfilled unless we desire to fulfill the desires. Too often, people place their own desires above the collective good.  He who does not master desire will find himself mastered by it. 

Can anyone truly be free of desire? If not, the wisest wish would be, “If I had one desire, it would be—to be free of desires!”  For, in the absence of desire, peace prevails.

pada vigrahaH:

क्षुत्-तृष्-आशाः त्रयः दाराः मयि जीवति न अन्यगाः ।

kṣut-tṛṣ-āśāḥ trayaḥ dārāḥ mayi jīvati na anyagāḥ ।

तसाम् आशा महा-साध्वी मुञ्चन्तं मां न मुञ्चति ॥

tasām āśā mahā-sādhvī muñcantaṃ māṃ na muñcati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

kShuttRuShaashaastrayo daaraaH

mayi jeevati naanyagaaH |

tasaamaashaa mahaasaadhvee

mu~ncantaM maaM na mu~ncati ||

- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

kShut-tRuSh-aashaaH trayaH daaraaH

mayi jeevati na anyagaaH |

tasaam aashaa mahaa-saadhvee

mu~ncantaM maaM na mu~ncati ||

October 31

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अपूर्वः कोऽपि कोशोऽयं विद्यते तव भारति ।
व्ययतो वृद्धिमायाति क्षयमायाति सञ्चयात् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
apūrvaḥ ko'pi kośo'yaṃ vidyate tava bhārati ।
vyayato vṛddhimāyāti kṣayamāyāti sañcayāt ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

O, Devi Saraswati (Bhārati),  your repository is like none other!  Upon spending, it grows; upon gathering, it shrinks!!

Commentary:

In a transactional world, what do we see?  If we spend something, what we retain decreases; upon collecting, what we possess increases.  But in Goddess Saraswati's arena, the rules are completely opposite.

When one expends his knowledge—in teaching or sharing with others—his horizons broaden. While teaching, a new outlook might dawn on him, something he had never thought of before.  His memory gets refreshed every time he shares what he knows.  It gives him clarity of thought and a better understanding of the material.  His value for what he is teaching intensifies in himself.  It will be reinforced in his mind and his faith in it will get stronger!  It is a complete win-win situation!!

In a contrasting scenario, if one collects shells, his collection stays intact if he keeps it to himself.  However, keeping knowledge to oneself (or confined to books) only aids in the dissipation of that knowledge.  This is because he is not allowing himself to reflect upon that knowledge.  Knowledge that is not put into practice is of no use anyway.  Over time, he may even forget what he learnt.  Worse, upon the passing away of that person, that particular knowledge may die with him!  The best way to repay our gurus and teachers is by passing on the knowledge that they have imparted to us.  If one stagnates that knowledge in himself, he is curtailing the growth of all the coming generations.  If our ancestors did the same to us, every generation would have to start all over, beginning from inventing fire using fire stones!!

Knowledge is like water.  It is sparkling and crystal clear when flowing.  If it stagnates, it becomes a swamp!  Anyone would readily drink water from a running stream rather than a stagnant swamp.  So, why not let knowledge flow like a river, soak in its refreshing waters, and let it expand?!  Being born as humans, each of us has an undying thirst for learning.  Let's satiate our thirst by learning from others, and quell the strife in others by sharing what we know!

pada vigrahaH:
अपूर्वः कः अपि कोशः अयं विद्यते तव भारति ।
apūrvaḥ kaḥ api kośaḥ ayaṃ vidyate tava bhārati ।

व्ययतः वृद्धिम् आयाति क्षयम् आयाति सञ्चयात् ॥
vyayataḥ vṛddhim āyāti kṣayam āyāti sañcayāt ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
apUrvaH ko.pi kosho.yaM vidyate tava bhaarati ।
vyayato vRuddhimaayaati kShayamaayaati sa~nchayaat ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

apUrvaH kaH api koshaH ayaM vidyate tava bhaarati ।

vyayataH vRuddhim aayaati kShayam aayaati sa~nchayaat ॥

April 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदमी दशन्ति दशनाः रसना तत्स्वादमनुभवति ।
प्रकृतिरियं विमलानां क्लिश्यन्ति यदन्यकार्येषु ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
yadamī daśanti daśanāḥ rasanā tatsvādamanubhavati ।
prakṛtiriyaṃ vimalānāṃ kliśyanti yadanyakāryeṣu ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The taste of what is chewed by the teeth is enjoyed by the tongue!  Anguish over the benefaction of others—this is the nature of the impeccable souls.

Commentary:

One of the primary roles of teeth is to chew food, a task they perform diligently. Yet, despite their effort, they never get to savor the flavors of the food they help prepare. Instead, it is the tongue—having done little to aid in the chewing—that enjoys every bit of the taste.

This reflects the selfless nature of noble and virtuous individuals. Like the teeth that enable the tongue to relish food, such souls dedicate their entire being to the welfare of others, without seeking any personal gain. They labor tirelessly, not for material rewards but for the greater good, often receiving little recognition for their efforts. These noble individuals are the unsung heroes who form the backbone of a functioning society.

If every individual were to strive for the well-being of those around them, imagine the harmony and prosperity our world would witness! Even for those who may not aspire to such selflessness, the least they can do is not hinder or obstruct the efforts of these great souls. Sometimes, refraining from being an impediment is itself a small but meaningful contribution to society.

pada vigrahaH:
यत् अमी दशन्ति दशनाः रसना तत् स्वादम् अनुभवति ।
yat amī daśanti daśanāḥ rasanā tat svādam anubhavati ।

प्रकृतिः इयं विमलानां क्लिश्यन्ति यत् अन्य-कार्येषु ॥
prakṛtiḥ iyaṃ vimalānāṃ kliśyanti yat anya-kāryeṣu ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadamI dashanti dashanaaH rasanaa tatsvaadamanubhavati ।
prakRutiriyaM vimalaanaaM klishyanti yadanyakaaryeShu ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

yat amI dashanti dashanaaH rasanaa tat svaadam anubhavati ।

prakRutiH iyaM vimalaanaaM klishyanti yat anya-kaaryeShu ॥

December 3rd

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

piNDe piNDe matiH bhinnaa kuNDe kuNDe navaM payaH ।

jaatau jaatau nava aachaaraaH navaa vaaNI mukhe mukhe ॥

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 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 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 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 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 ॥

August 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अकृत्वा पौरुषं या श्रीः विकासिन्यपि किं तया ।
जरद्गवोऽपि चाश्नाति दैवादुपगतं तृणम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
akṛtvā pauruṣaṃ yā śrīḥ vikāsinyapi kiṃ tayā ।
jaradgavo'pi cāśnāti daivādupagataṃ tṛṇam ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

So what if one's wealth is blossoming even without his effort?! Even an old bull can graze the grass that becomes available by chance!

Commentary:

Luck shouldn't be the sole driving force behind the prosperity of one's wealth! If his wealth is flourishing without effort, there is nothing great about it. He might have inherited it abundantly, or his investments might be reaping tremendous benefits. But if he is not putting in hard work, dedicating his heart and soul towards the betterment of himself and society, that prosperity is to no great avail!

The poet says, even an old bull will graze the grass that becomes 'available' by chance. No applause is required for the bull's effort in 'earning' that meal! The same holds true for someone who puts in no effort towards thriving his assets or flourishing his property.

Only he who strives hard, as well as works honestly and diligently gets to be lauded for his prosperity. One's assets and wealth should prosper only as a byproduct of his efforts and not just due to mere luck or chance!

pada vigrahaH:
अ-कृत्वा पौरुषं या श्रीः विकासिनी अपि किं तया ।
a-kṛtvā pauruṣaṃ yā śrīḥ vikāsinī api kiṃ tayā ।

जरद्-गवः अपि च अश्नाति दैवात् उपगतं तृणम् ॥
jarad-gavaḥ api ca aśnāti daivāt upagataṃ tṛṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akRutvaa pauruShaM yaa shrIH vikaasinyapi kiM tayaa ।
jaradgavo.pi chaashnaati daivaadupagataM tRuNam ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

a-kRutvaa pauruShaM yaa shrIH vikaasinI api kiM tayaa ।

jarad-gavaH api cha ashnaati daivaat upagataM tRuNam ॥

July 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
रत्नाकरः किं करोति स्वरत्नैः
विन्ध्याचलः किं करिभिः करोति ।
श्रीखन्ण्डखण्डैर्मलयाचलः किं
परोपकाराय सतां विभूतयः ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
ratnākaraḥ kiṃ karoti svaratnaiḥ
vindhyācalaḥ kiṃ karibhiḥ karoti ।
śrīkhanṇḍakhaṇḍairmalayācalaḥ kiṃ
paropakārāya satāṃ vibhūtayaḥ ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

What will the ocean do with its own gems? What will the vindhyā mountain do with the elephants (dwelling) there? Of what use are the sandal trees to the malaya mountain? The wealth of the noble is for the benefaction of others.

Commentary:

Most people spend their wealth on themselves—there's no greatness in that!

Yet, nature offers countless examples that stand in contrast to this mindset. An ocean is a storehouse for multitudes of precious gems. But does it use even a single prized stone to deck itself up? The vindhyā mountain is the house for many herds of elephants. Yet it does not direct them to work for its needs! There are more sandalwood trees on the malaya mountain than in any other place on Earth. But the mountain doesn't have any use for them!

Similarly, the noble do not obsess over their possessions. Instead, they put their wealth to use for the benefit of others. They are neither selfish nor attached to their material possessions. For them, 'using their wealth for the right purpose' takes more priority than 'for whom it is being used'!

If you have much, give your wealth; if you have little, certainly give your heart! There is never a scarcity for that! Just do every action wholeheartedly. The results will increase multifold.

pada vigrahaH:
रत्नाकरः किं करोति स्व-रत्नैः
ratnākaraḥ kiṃ karoti sva-ratnaiḥ

विन्ध्याचलः किं करिभिः करोति ।
vindhyācalaḥ kiṃ karibhiḥ karoti ।

श्रीखन्ण्ड-खण्डैः मलयाचलः किं
śrīkhanṇḍa-khaṇḍaiḥ malayācalaḥ kiṃ

पर-उपकाराय सतां विभूतयः ॥
para-upakārāya satāṃ vibhūtayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ratnaakaraH kiM karoti svaratnaiH
vindhyaachalaH kiM karibhiH karoti ।
shrIkhanNDakhaNDairmalayaachalaH kiM
paropakaaraaya sataaM vibhUtayaH ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

ratnaakaraH kiM karoti sva-ratnaiH

vindhyaachalaH kiM karibhiH karoti ।

shrIkhanNDa-khaNDaiH malayaachalaH kiM

para-upakaaraaya sataaM vibhUtayaH ॥

July 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पात्रापात्रविवेकोऽस्ति धेनुपन्नगयोरिव ।
तृणात्सञ्जायते क्षीरं क्षीरात्सञ्जायते विषम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
pātrāpātraviveko'sti dhenupannagayoriva ।
tṛṇātsañjāyate kṣīraṃ kṣīrātsañjāyate viṣam ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Discrimination between the deserving and undeserving is the same way between a cow and a snake. From grass, milk is produced (in a cow); from milk, poison is generated (in a snake).

Commentary:

Whether it is an act of giving or offering aid, it is said that the person receiving must be a deserving candidate. 

How does one differentiate between the deserving and the undeserving? Very simple. The difference between the two is just like the difference between a cow and a snake. A cow eats dry grass and gives back milk in return; whereas a snake feeds on milk and produces poison! 

The same goes for people. The deserving, when offered even the slightest assistance, make maximum use of it and give back more than they received to society. That keeps the goodness in the world alive. But those who take all that is given to them and apply it to harm those around them were obviously undeserving, to begin with.

It is better to deserve yet not receive rather than to receive without deserving.  Be deserving!

pada vigrahaH:
पात्र-अपात्र-विवेकः अस्ति धेनु-पन्नगयोः इव ।
pātra-apātra-vivekaḥ asti dhenu-pannagayoḥ iva ।

तृणात् सञ्जायते क्षीरं क्षीरात् सञ्जायते विषम् ॥
tṛṇāt sañjāyate kṣīraṃ kṣīrāt sañjāyate viṣam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
paatraapaatraviveko.sti dhenupannagayoriva ।
tRuNaatsa~njaayate kShIraM kShIraatsa~njaayate viSham ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

paatra-apaatra-vivekaH asti dhenu-pannagayoH iva ।

tRuNaat sa~njaayate kShIraM kShIraat sa~njaayate viSham ॥

July 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
भवत्येकस्थले जन्म गन्धस्तेषां पृथक् पृथक् ।
उत्पलस्य मृणालस्य मत्स्यस्य कुमुदस्य च ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
bhavatyekasthale janma gandhasteṣāṃ pṛthak pṛthak ।
utpalasya mṛṇālasya matsyasya kumudasya ca ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Born in the same place, they (each) smell differently—water lily, lotus root, fish, and night lotus!

Commentary:

A water lily, a night lotus, a lotus root, and a fish are all born in water. Yet, they are vastly different. Their traits and temperaments vary widely—They do not look the same, smell the same, or feel the same! Daylilies and lotuses bloom during the day whereas night lilies and night lotuses bloom at night. Their roots remain underwater while the flowers bloom above. The fish are mobile and consume food as well. They have a completely different smell in comparison to the fragrance of the flowers which are born in the same pond! 

The only similarity among them seems to be their place of birth.  Each of them has a bigger set of attributes unique to them alone!

Likewise, children from the same parents or students of the same teacher cannot be expected to be similar. Perceptions differ based on prior vāsanās and experiences, which are beyond human cognizance. One child may have a keen interest in music while the other is eager to play sports. One may be extremely smart in math, yet the other may be exceptional in art!

Similarly, students taught by the same teacher cannot achieve the same results!  The teacher teaches both at the same time, but it is up to each student as to what he absorbs.  It is just like when the rain pours in an area.  The drops of water on the rock slide off, whereas the droplets that fall on the soil will nourish plants and allow them to grow!  There was no difference in the rain's intensity or composition.  Both the stone and the soil received the same rainwater. Yet their intrinsic natures made their outcomes different.  They are two different objects and just can't be compared to one another.

No matter what color and fragrance they carry, each being has his own place and specialty in this world. No one can substitute for the other! There is the Supreme driving force behind each entity and each belongs exactly where it is!

When two people are born from the same parents and in the same place but are still different, how can we expect everyone in the world to think and work alike?!  People come into one's life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. When he figures out which one it is he will know exactly what to do. Value each person for themselves. Each one comes with his own flaws and strengths. Appreciate them for their good qualities and overlook their shortcomings.

pada vigrahaH:
भवति एक-स्थले जन्म गन्धः तेषां पृथक् पृथक् ।
bhavati eka-sthale janma gandhaḥ teṣāṃ pṛthak pṛthak ।

उत्पलस्य मृणालस्य मत्स्यस्य कुमुदस्य च ॥
utpalasya mṛṇālasya matsyasya kumudasya ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
bhavatyekasthale janma gandhasteShaaM pRuthak pRuthak ।
utpalasya mRuNaalasya matsyasya kumudasya cha ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

bhavati eka-sthale janma gandhaH teShaaM pRuthak pRuthak ।

utpalasya mRuNaalasya matsyasya kumudasya cha ॥

July 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सद्भावेन जयेन्मित्रं सद्भावेन च बान्धवान् ।
स्त्रीभृत्यान् दानमानाभ्यां दाक्षिण्येनेतरं जनम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
sadbhāvena jayenmitraṃ sadbhāvena ca bāndhavān ।
strībhṛtyān dānamānābhyāṃ dākṣiṇyenetaraṃ janam ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Win friends with good presence; win kinsmen with good presence too; women and dependents through giving and respect; others through politeness.

Commentary:

How we interact with a person has a huge impact on the way the relationship shapes up. However, the same type of interaction doesn't apply to all relationships.

• The way one deals with a friend is not the same as he would deal with his children. The poet hence says that one has to deal with friends and kinsmen with a good presence. 
• One needs to be calm and composed when dealing with kith and kin because spoken words and sped arrows can never be taken back. One wrong word can break the relationship forever. 
• Women are to be treated with respect. Giving is another faculty that one needs to develop, be it with women or dependents. They are the primary caretakers.  Hence when they are valued, the household runs smoothly. 
• Everyone else should be dealt with politeness. Rudeness and arrogance are not appealing to anyone. Be he a king or a common man—arrogance or a high-strung attitude doesn't sit well with anybody.

Politeness is a sign of dignity, not subservience.  One of the greatest victories one can gain over someone is to beat him at politeness. 

Adapting this attitude wins many a win!

pada vigrahaH:
सत् भावेन जयेत् मित्रं सद्भावेन च बान्धवान् ।
sat bhāvena jayet mitraṃ sadbhāvena ca bāndhavān ।

स्त्री-भृत्यान् दान-मानाभ्यां दाक्षिण्येन इतरं जनम् ॥
strī-bhṛtyān dāna-mānābhyāṃ dākṣiṇyena itaraṃ janam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sadbhaavena jayenmitraM sadbhaavena cha baandhavaan ।
strIbhRutyaan daanamaanaabhyaaM daakShiNyenetaraM janam ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

sat bhaavena jayet mitraM sadbhaavena cha baandhavaan ।

strI-bhRutyaan daana-maanaabhyaaM daakShiNyena itaraM janam ॥

June 8th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ChinnaH api rohati taruH kShINaH api upachIyate chandraH ।

iti vimRushantaH santaH santapyante na loke asmin ॥

June 5th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।

na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTi-naashakaH ॥

June 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनुकुरुतः खलसुजनौ अग्रिमपाश्चात्यभागयोः सूच्याः ।
विदधाति रन्ध्रमेकः गुणवानन्यस्तु पिदधाति रन्ध्रम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
anukurutaḥ khalasujanau agrimapāścātyabhāgayoḥ sūcyāḥ ।
vidadhāti randhramekaḥ guṇavānanyastu pidadhāti randhram ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

As if taking after the example of a needle's front and aft ends, the evildoer and good person (conduct themselves). (The evil) one makes a hole while the other noble one shuts it close.

Commentary:

When a needle is used to sow, the front end of it makes a hole in the material so that it can get through. But as the needle passes through, the aft end—which has a hole in itself to accommodate the thread—closes the hole in the material behind it!

Similar is the conduct of an evildoer versus a good person. An evildoer would not hesitate to put a hole in something to achieve his purpose. He could spoil someone's belongings, someone's trust, or worse, the resolve of another person. So long as his ends are met, he is unperturbed!

On the contrary, a good-hearted individual would take the hardships onto himself and put someone else's misery to rest, silently. He doesn't blow a trumpet about his deeds.  Instead, he contributes his best, quietly.

Isn't the difference between the two, exactly the same as the difference between the front and aft ends of a needle?!

It is better to be good than evil!

pada vigrahaH:

अनुकुरुतः खल-सुजनौ अग्रिम-पाश्चात्य-भागयोः सूच्याः ।
anukurutaḥ khala-sujanau agrima-pāścātya-bhāgayoḥ sūcyāḥ ।

विदधाति रन्ध्रम् एकः गुणवान् अन्यः तु पिदधाति रन्ध्रम् ॥
vidadhāti randhram ekaḥ guṇavān anyaḥ tu pidadhāti randhram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anukurutaH khalasujanau agrimapaashchaatyabhaagayoH sUchyaaH ।
vidadhaati randhramekaH guNavaananyastu pidadhaati randram ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

anukurutaH khala-sujanau agrima-paashchaatya-bhaagayoH sUchyaaH ।

vidadhaati randhram ekaH guNavaan anyaH tu pidadhaati randram ॥

May 31st

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

dUrasthaH api samIpasthaH yaH yasya hRudi vartate ।

yaH yasya hRudaye na asti samIpasthaH api dUragaH ॥

May 23rd

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

na dviShanti na yaachante para-nindaaM na kurvate ।

anaahUtaaH na cha aayaanti tena ashmanaH api devataaH ॥

May 17th

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

Think your actions through...

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

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

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

bhaye vaa yadi vaa harShe saMpraapte yaH vimarshayet ।

kRutyaM na kurute vegaat na sa santaapam aapnuyaat ॥