November 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

माता मित्रं पिता चेति स्वभावात् त्रितयं हितम् ।

कार्यकारणतश्चान्ये भवन्ति हितबुद्धयः ॥

- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:

mātā mitraṃ pitā ceti svabhāvāt tritayaṃ hitam ।

kāryakāraṇataścānye bhavanti hitabuddhayaḥ ॥

- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Mother, father, and friend—these 3 are well-wishers by nature.  The rest show seeming support due to an incidental motive.  

Commentary:

A true well-wisher is like a shadow, always by our side. Regardless of the circumstances, they are the ones who say, "Relax and rejuvenate. I’m here for you!" Starting from childhood, such unwavering supporters are only a handful: our Mother, our Father, and our Friend (could be one or many). 

Parents wish only well for their children, even before they are born.  They take care of their every small need, without even being asked.  Even after the children grow up and become adults, parents wish them only happiness and strive to give them comfort in every way.  

Then, there are those we meet by chance and become friends by choice. They become the family we create. Through thick and thin, their support transcends time, distance, and even silence. While parents may one day be gone, true friends remain, always wishing the best for us.

Yet, life teaches us a hard truth—not everyone who speaks kindly is a true well-wisher. Some may offer sweet words, but their motives are self-serving, and fade once their needs are fulfilled. Though we may choose to believe them for the moment, we must remain vigilant and aware of their true intentions.

The key to a fulfilling life lies in discerning who truly wishes us well. Knowing whom to lean on is integral to living a happy and successful life.

pada vigrahaH:

माता मित्रं पिता च इति स्वभावात् त्रितयं हितम् ।

mātā mitraṃ pitā ca iti svabhāvāt tritayaṃ hitam ।

कार्य-कारणतः च अन्ये भवन्ति हित-बुद्धयः ॥

kārya-kāraṇataḥ ca anye bhavanti hita-buddhayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

maataa mitraM pitaa cheti svabhaavaat tritayaM hitam |

kaaryakaaraNatashchaanye bhavanti hitabuddhayaH ||

- hitopadeSa, mitralaabha

maataa mitraM pitaa cha iti svabhaavaat tritayaM hitam |

kaarya-kaaraNataH cha anye bhavanti hita-buddhayaH ||

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 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

उत्सवे व्यसने चैव दुर्भिक्षे शत्रुसङ्कटे ।

राजद्वारे स्मशाने च यस्तिष्ठति स बान्धवः ॥

- हितोपदेश

Transliteration:

utsave vyasane caiva durbhikṣe śatrusaṅkaṭe ।

rājadvāre smaśāne ca yastiṣṭhati sa bāndhavaḥ ॥

- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In celebration, in sorrow, during a calamity, during a crisis with an enemy, in front of a higher authority, in the crematorium, he who stays by, is kin (relative). 

Commentary:

In times of joy, prosperity, and abundance, it is only natural for friends and family to gather around like ants to sugar. But life as we know it is not a constant celebration. It ebbs and flows, with highs and lows, twists and turns. When sorrow strikes, the scene often changes. People scatter. The effort required to help lift someone from their misery is too much for many. In times of calamity, self-preservation trumps effort; in moments of crisis, standing by a loved one can seem too daunting. When an enemy threatens, it's easier to slip away than face the challenge together. Confronting authority, a king, or a powerful figure often drives people to retreat in fear. When death comes, only those who truly matter remain, while others step back, fearing that they will be obligated to care for the survivors.  

The poet is right: the one who stands by your side in both joy and sorrow, during calamity or crisis, in the face of an enemy or authority, and even in the crematorium—this person, regardless of bloodline, is the truest of kin. Their loyalty transcends a mere relationship; they become family.  

What makes family truly family, is the unwavering commitment to stick together no matter the circumstances. Family in its deepest sense, is the ultimate source of strength and resilience—a refuge where life begins and love knows no end. This is the foundation upon which we build our lives and the bedrock that supports us through every storm.

pada vigrahaH:

उत्सवे व्यसने च एव दुर्भिक्षे शत्रु-सङ्कटे ।

utsave vyasane ca eva durbhikṣe śatru-saṅkaṭe ।

राज-द्वारे स्मशाने च यः तिष्ठति सः बान्धवः ॥

rāja-dvāre smaśāne ca yaḥ tiṣṭhati saḥ bāndhavaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

utsave vyasane chaiva durbhikShe shatrusa~nkaTe |

raajadvaare smashaane cha yastiShThati sa baandhavaH ||

- hitopadeSa

utsave vyasane cha eva durbhikShe shatru-sa~nkaTe |

raaja-dvaare smashaane ca yaH tiShThati saH baandhavaH ||

September 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदि सत्सङ्गनिरतः भविष्यसि भविष्यसि ।
तथा सज्जनगोष्ठीषु पतिष्यसि पतिष्यसि ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:
yadi satsaṅganirataḥ bhaviṣyasi bhaviṣyasi ।
tathā sajjanagoṣṭhīṣu patiṣyasi patiṣyasi ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If (you) stay in good company, you shall remain.  Similarly, if (you) fall off from good company, (you) shall fall.

Commentary:

One's character is immensely influenced by the company he keeps.  The more one stays in good company, the better he fares.  When one's association is not up to mark, he shall fall in his character.  The company one keeps speaks volumes about his mettle. 

As the saying goes, 'Tell me your friends and I shall tell you your character!'  Such is the profoundness of one's association.  The more one keeps good company, the more he grows.  The more one moves away from it, the more he regresses.  One has to be mindful of this always.  It is not a goal to achieve one day and forget about another!  It is a constant process towards progress.

The beauty of the verse is also in the play of the words.  The verse at first glance might seem repetitive, confusing, or even wrong!  Punctuation is powerful.  There is a pause (,) between the two bhaviṣyasi-s and the two patiṣyasi-s!  The first bhaviṣyasi indicates being in good company.  The second one means you shall be (as in, survive)!  Similarly, the first patiṣyasi means to fall off from good company.  The second one indicates that you shall fall (in morality) and hence perish!!

May each person be good and keep good company so the entire universe will be a 'company to keep!'

pada vigrahaH:
यदि सत्-सङ्ग-निरतः भविष्यसि भविष्यसि ।
yadi sat-saṅga-nirataḥ bhaviṣyasi bhaviṣyasi ।

तथा सज्जन-गोष्ठीषु पतिष्यसि पतिष्यसि ॥
tathā sajjana-goṣṭhīṣu patiṣyasi patiṣyasi ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadi satsa~nganirataH bhaviShyasi bhaviShyasi ।
tathaa sajjanagoShThiShu patiShyasi patiShyasi ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

yadi sat-sa~nga-nirataH bhaviShyasi bhaviShyasi ।

tathaa sajjana-goShThIShu patiShyasi patiShyasi ॥

June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उदीरितोऽर्थः पशुनापि गृह्यते
हयाश्च नागाश्च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
अनुक्तमप्यूहति पण्डितो जनः
परेङ्गितज्ञानफला हि बुद्धयः ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद

Transliteration:
udīrito'rthaḥ paśunāpi gṛhyate
hayāśca nāgāśca vahanti deśitāḥ ।
anuktamapyūhati paṇḍito janaḥ
pareṅgitajñānaphalā hi buddhayaḥ ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is expressed explicitly is grasped by even animals, (just as) horses and elephants execute on orders.  The intelligent perceive even that which is unsaid.  Certainly, the consequence of intelligence is an understanding of the intent of others.

Commentary:

'Stay', 'fetch', 'run', 'dance', 'jump'—even animals respond to such instructions.  A horse can run when whipped.  An elephant can lug the load as per orders from the mahout. Dogs can sit or fetch as per instructions. Animals, especially the domesticated ones, promptly do what they are told.  Doing what is asked of them is not difficult for animals.  They do not have to use much intelligence or make challenging decisions that require special skills.

Shouldn't the intelligence of man set him apart?!  The intelligence of man allows him to understand and perceive even untold words.  The ability to perceive is greater than the knowledge received. 

Empathy is the art of imagining oneself in other people's shoes, understanding their feelings and perspectives, and using that understanding to guide one's own actions! One must take the initiative to show empathy. 

The author of the verse says the consequence of proper intelligence is—the ability to perceive the untold stories! Show empathy, take charge, take initiative. Taking initiative means doing the right thing without being told! 

pada vigrahaH:
उदीरितः अर्थः पशुना अपि गृह्यते
udīritaḥ arthaḥ paśunā api gṛhyate

हयाः च नागाः च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
hayāḥ ca nāgāḥ ca vahanti deśitāḥ ।

अनुक्तम् अपि ऊहति पण्डितः जनः
anuktam api ūhati paṇḍitaḥ janaḥ

पर-इङ्गित-ज्ञान-फलाः हि बुद्धयः ॥
para-iṅgita-jñāna-phalāḥ hi buddhayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
udIrito.rthaH pashunaapi gRuhyate
hayaashcha naagaashcha vahanti deshitaaH ।
anuktamapyUhati paNDito janaH
pare~ngitaj~naanaphalaa hi buddhayaH ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

udIritaH arthaH pashunaa api gRuhyate

hayaaH cha naagaaH cha vahanti deshitaaH ।

anuktam api Uhati paNDitaH janaH

para-i~ngita-j~naana-phalaaH hi buddhayaH ॥

February 18th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अयं निजः परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम् ।
उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् ॥
- हितोपदेश, सन्धि

Transliteration:
ayaṃ nijaḥ paro veti gaṇanā laghucetasām ।
udāracaritānāṃ tu vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam ॥
- hitopadeśa, sandhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Those with petty minds account thus—this is mine and that is his.  Certainly, for the ones with an exalted life, the whole world is itself a family! 

Commentary:

When one considers something or someone as a part of his family, he does everything in his power to make sure he/she is safe, protected, and loved.  However, when one has a demarcation of 'this (person) is my family, that (person) is his family', unconditional love disappears!

When a person identifies himself with anyone or anything, his approach towards that person/object becomes gentle and loving.  For example, he will even be willing to forget and forgive any misdeeds done by that person.  Why?  Because he has a soft corner in his heart for the loved one! He fights for the well-being of that person with all his strength, justifying that 'it is not a crime to fight for what is mine!'  So, if one has embraced the whole world as his, he will automatically work towards the betterment of each and everyone in it!  He identifies himself to a broader spectrum.

On the contrary, petty-minded people mark their boundaries and are not open-minded.  They do not stretch their visions.  Even though they do the same things such as loving, protecting, and safeguarding their own units of family, their lives, minds, and visions still remain petty.  This deters them from growing magnanimously in both their attitude and approach.

People could live their lives exceedingly peacefully if the words 'mine and thine' are taken away from the equation, isn't it!!  No pomp, no show.  Only genuine thoughts for the welfare of all! Why not try for a more quiet, peaceful, satisfactory, and joyful life for everyone around us?!

pada vigrahaH:
अयं निजः परः वा इति गणना लघु-चेतसाम् ।
ayaṃ nijaḥ paraḥ vā iti gaṇanā laghu-cetasām ।

उदार-चरितानां तु वसुधा एव कुटुम्बकम् ॥
udāra-caritānāṃ tu vasudhā eva kuṭumbakam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ayaM nijaH paro veti gaNanaa laghuchetasaam ।
udaaracharitaanaaM tu vasudhaiva kuTumbakam ॥
- hitopadesha, sandhi

ayaM nijaH paraH vaa iti gaNanaa laghu-chetasaam ।

udaara-charitaanaaM tu vasudhaa eva kuTumbakam ॥

January 28th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यदशक्यं न तच्छक्यं यच्छक्यं शक्यमेव तत् ।
नोदके शकटं याति न नौका गच्छति स्थले ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:
yadaśakyaṃ na tacchakyaṃ yacchakyaṃ śakyameva tat ।
nodake śakaṭaṃ yāti na naukā gacchati sthale ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is not possible is not possible; that which is possible is certainly possible!  A cart cannot go in the water, (and) a boat cannot go on land!

Commentary:

Everything and everyone in this world has a purpose. Each person or object must serve the world in alignment with their inherent attributes. A boat is designed to float and navigate on water—it cannot transport people over land. Similarly, a buggy or cart moves effortlessly on land but cannot aid in water travel. Each fulfills its role as dictated by its 'vastu-dharma', its intrinsic nature.

Exerting energy in the wrong direction or expecting something to act against its nature is futile. However, the challenge in real life lies in the absence of clear labels or instructions regarding these attributes. Often, the line between what is possible and what is not is blurry. It falls upon us to discern our capabilities, limitations, and the nature of the world around us.

Another reality is that life doesn’t provide the guiding background music that movies or plays use to set the tone and clarify situations. We are left to interpret, analyze, and decide for ourselves without external cues. The art of living lies in figuring out what is worth pursuing and what is best left alone.

May the Lord grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference!

pada vigrahaH:
यत् अशक्यं न तत् शक्यं यत् शक्यं शक्यम् एव तत् ।

yat aśakyaṃ na tat śakyaṃ yat śakyaṃ śakyam eva tat ।

न उदके शकटं याति न नौका गच्छति स्थले ॥
na udake śakaṭaṃ yāti na naukā gacchati sthale ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yadashakyaM na tachChakyaM yachChakyaM shakyameva tat ।
nodake shakaTaM yaati na naukaa gachChati sthale ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

yat ashakyaM na tat shakyaM yat shakyaM shakyam eva tat ।

na udake shakaTaM yaati na naukaa gachChati sthale ॥

December 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते  ।
लोभात् मोहश्च नाशश्च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
- हितोपदेश

Transliteration:
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।
lobhāt mohaśca nāśaśca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

From greed originates anger; greed gives rise to lust/desire; from greed (come) attachment and ruin.  Greed is the cause of sin.

Commentary:

Poverty wants much, but avarice... everything!  A poor person wants many things to make ends meet.  He is satiated after that.  But he who is excessively greedy always wants something, whether he needs it or not.  Greed is like a monster, standing with his mouth wide open, to devour everything that comes its way.  The more that greed is fed, the more hungry it gets!

Along with all the havoc greed causes it is the originator of anger.  When the greedy do not get what their heart desires, the first response is, getting angry.  Anger breeds resentment, another unhealthy emotion.  Anger first burns the one who is angry even before causing any harm to the person he is angry with!

Greed gives rise to lust.  Lust is never quenched and is flamed further with indulgence.

Greed conjoined with lust and anger can only lead towards attachment and destruction, all of which lead one towards committing sin.  They say hell has 3 gates—lust, anger, and greed.  All of these can originate from greed.  The best remedy to protect oneself from spiraling down this ladder of fall is to keep greed at bay.

pada vigrahaH:
लोभात् क्रोधः प्रभवति लोभात् कामः प्रजायते ।
lobhāt krodhaḥ prabhavati lobhāt kāmaḥ prajāyate ।

लोभात् मोहः च नाशः च लोभः पापस्य कारणम् ॥
lobhāt mohaḥ ca nāśaḥ ca lobhaḥ pāpasya kāraṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।
lobhaat mohashcha naashashcha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥
- hitopadesha

lobhaat krodhaH prabhavati lobhaat kaamaH prajaayate ।

lobhaat mohaH cha naashaH cha lobhaH paapasya kaaraNam ॥

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 ॥

August 13th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
काव्यशास्त्रविनोदेन कालो गच्छति धीमताम् ।
व्यसनेन तु मूर्खाणां निद्रया कलहेन वा ॥
- हितोपदेश


Transliteration:
kāvyaśāstravinodena kālo gacchati dhīmatām ।
vyasanena tu mūrkhāṇāṃ nidrayā kalahena vā ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Intelligent people spend their time studying literature and scriptures for amusement, whereas the foolish (spend time indulging) in bad habits, sleeping, or quarreling.

Commentary:

'Favorite pastimes' vary for each individual based on their caliber. One's choice of activities is based on his interests.

The poet says he who is aware of the real purpose of life chooses to study literature and scriptures for his entertainment. He keeps himself occupied in productive activities rather than unwanted distractions. 

On the other hand, a foolish person entertains himself by being involved in petty quarrels, bad habits, or oversleeping. He is constantly distraught, displeased, and dissatisfied with his circumstances.  He easily passes the buck of blame onto someone else and gets into a dispute simply to satiate his ego.  There is no higher goal when one wants to boost his own futile efforts when he is clearly in the wrong.

One's choices give away his temperaments! Choose your hobbies carefully and may the pursuit behind them be justified.

pada vigrahaH:
काव्य-शास्त्र-विनोदेन कालः गच्छति धीमताम् ।
kāvya-śāstra-vinodena kālaḥ gacchati dhīmatām ।

व्यसनेन तु मूर्खाणां निद्रया कलहेन वा ॥
vyasanena tu mūrkhāṇāṃ nidrayā kalahena vā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kaavyashaastravinodena kaalo gachChati dhImataam ।
vyasanena tu mUrkhaaNaaM nidrayaa kalahena vaa ॥
- hitopadesha

kaavya-shaastra-vinodena kaalaH gachChati dhImataam ।

vyasanena tu mUrkhaaNaaM nidrayaa kalahena vaa ॥

May 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
बालादपि ग्रहीतव्यं युक्तमुक्तं मनीषिभिः ।
रवेरविषये किं न प्रदीपस्य प्रकाशनम् ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद

Transliteration:
bālādapi grahītavyaṃ yuktamuktaṃ manīṣibhiḥ ।
raveraviṣaye kiṃ na pradīpasya prakāśanam ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Sensible words, if coming even from a child, should be received by mankind. Doesn't a lamp illuminate where the sun cannot?!

Commentary:

The sun might be the biggest source of light for the planet. But, there are places that even He cannot reach. Think about the deepest valleys, the darkest caves, or the thickest forests. These places might have never seen the faintest ray of sunlight. However, when a small lamp is taken there, it lights up the whole place! For such a place, a lamp is much more appropriate than the big bright sun.  How about at night?  The sun can't reach at night to light up the room, but a little lamp can!

The same is the case with wise words, which sometimes come from the mouth of a child, and are worth a million. Children speak with no malice and have the purest of hearts. Life is very simple in their terminology. Hence, when adults complicate things, children seem to speak more sensibly! At that time, one should not discount those words just because they came from a child. Wise words from any mouth must be accepted and respected.

Every child is born a genius. They are wise and observant!  Pay attention to their words.

pada vigrahaH:
बालात् अपि ग्रहीतव्यं युक्तम् उक्तं मनीषिभिः ।
bālāt api grahītavyaṃ yuktam uktaṃ manīṣibhiḥ ।

रवेः अविषये किं न प्रदीपस्य प्रकाशनम् ॥
raveḥ aviṣaye kiṃ na pradīpasya prakāśanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
baalaadapi grahItavyaM yuktamuktaM manIShibhiH ।
raveraviShaye kiM na pradIpasya prakaashanam ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

baalaat api grahItavyaM yuktam uktaM manIShibhiH ।

raveH aviShaye kiM na pradIpasya prakaashanam ॥

April 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
विद्या ददाति विनयं विनयाद्याति पात्रताम् ।
पात्रत्वाद्धनमाप्नोति धनाद्धर्मं ततस्सुखम् ॥
- हितोपदेश


Transliteration:
vidyā dadāti vinayaṃ vinayādyāti pātratām ।
pātratvāddhanamāpnoti dhanāddharmaṃ tatassukham ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Knowledge (vidyā) gives humility; with humility comes recognition; recognition brings wealth; through wealth (do) virtue; and then follows happiness.

Commentary:

True knowledge does not stop at simply making one knowledgeable. It teaches him humility. Arrogance is an attribute of ignorant egos. True education eliminates the ego and makes one humble. If this is not learnt, it is not 'education' in the first place, it is mere certification!

Once humility is learnt, recognition comes looking for that person. Recognition does not necessarily mean he will be in the news the next morning! People will respect him and recognize that he is learned. His humility paves the way for that recognition.

This respect and recognition bring him a good position in society and a well-paying line of work, making him wealthy!

That wealth should be put to use for accomplishing virtuous deeds (dharma). True vidyā teaches him not to misuse his wealth or authority. Instead, it teaches him that 'With great power comes great responsibility'. A responsible person does not indulge himself in non-meritorious actions.

There is no internal discord when one performs dharma. The conscience always directs the mind to do rightful deeds. When there is no internal conflict of ideas within one's mind and intellect, the person is automatically happy!

This way, vidyā leads to happiness, step by step. Hence, happiness cannot be achieved overnight. It needs patience and perseverance. True knowledge teaches this too!

pada vigrahaH:
विद्या ददाति विनयं विनयात् याति पात्रताम् ।
vidyā dadāti vinayaṃ vinayāt yāti pātratām ।

पात्रत्वात् धनम् आप्नोति धनात् धर्मं ततः सुखम् ॥
pātratvāt dhanam āpnoti dhanāt dharmaṃ tataḥ sukham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
vidyaa dadaati vinayaM vinayaadyaati paatrataam ।
paatratvaaddhanamaapnoti dhanaaddharmaM tatassukham ॥
- hitopadesha

vidyaa dadaati vinayaM vinayaat yaati paatrataam ।

paatratvaat dhanam aapnoti dhanaat dharmaM tataH sukham ॥

March 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
ईर्ष्यी घृणी त्वसन्तुष्टः क्रोधनो नित्यशङ्कितः ।
परभाग्योपजीवी च षडेते दुःखभागिनः ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ


Transliteration:
īrṣyī ghṛṇī tvasantuṣṭaḥ krodhano nityaśaṅkitaḥ ।
parabhāgyopajīvī ca ṣaḍete duḥkhabhāginaḥ ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The jealous, the repugnant, the un-contented, the resentful, the ever-doubting, and those living off of other people's wealth—these six are eligible for sorrow.

Commentary:

Some people want to see everything go wrong for others because, in their heads, nothing is going right for them! 

1. Jealousy towards others yields no good. A jealous person is plotting constantly against his perceived enemy. Hence he can never be peaceful.
2. Repugnance, distaste, or aversion towards anyone or anything can breed no beautiful thoughts along with them. Such a person is always miserable.
3. One with no contentment is constantly working his mind towards acquiring something more to satisfy him. There is no calmness in such a mind.
4. A resentful and angry person is never happy with anything or anyone. He expresses displeasure every step of the way. How can pleasure even come near such a person?
5. A doubting Thomas, a skeptic, has no trust in any aspect of life. He needs constant assurance and physical evidence to make him believe every single dimension of his own life. Such an individual probably can't even sleep in peace.
6. A person living off of someone else's wealth has to constantly think of that someone literally! If the other person loses his source of income, so does he... The parasitic guilt that accompanies the scenario is a whole different issue to deal with. How can such a person be happy!

Any person who is—not at peace, always miserable, not calm, not happy, not pleasant nor satisfied—how can delight come near such an individual! The verse even says, such a person almost deserves to be sorrowful, meaning he can't escape sorrow.

Don't worry, be happy!

pada vigrahaH:
ईर्ष्यी घृणी तु असन्तुष्टः क्रोधनः नित्य-शङ्कितः ।
īrṣyī ghṛṇī tu asantuṣṭaḥ krodhanaḥ nitya-śaṅkitaḥ ।

पर-भाग्य-उपजीवी च षट् एते दुःख-भागिनः ॥
para-bhāgya-upajīvī ca ṣaṭ ete duḥkha-bhāginaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
IrShyI ghRuNI tvasantuShTaH krodhano nityasha~nkitaH ।
parabhaagyopajIvI cha ShaDete duHkhabhaaginaH ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

IrShyI ghRuNI tu asantuShTaH krodhanaH nitya-sha~nkitaH ।

para-bhaagya-upajIvI cha ShaT ete duHkha-bhaaginaH ॥

March 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आरोप्यते शिला शैले यथा यत्नेन भूयसा ।
निपात्यते सुखेनाधः तथात्मा गुणदोषयोः ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद


Transliteration:
āropyate śilā śaile yathā yatnena bhūyasā ।
nipātyate sukhenādhaḥ tathātmā guṇadoṣayoḥ ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

With tremendous effort, a big stone can be raised onto the top of a mountain. (On the other hand), it can be rolled downhill very easily. Similar is the case of the Self, (due to) efficacies and defects.

Commentary:

If a stone is to be carried up a steep mountain, it needs a great deal of strenuous effort on one's part. But all it takes is one gentle push to bring it downhill—one push and then gravity is in charge. The stone rolls at high speed, all the way to the bottom, making it difficult to be stopped it in between!

The exact same is the scenario with the आत्मा (atmā—Self). The atmā needs to climb the huge, hard, steep, and rugged mountain of संसार (saṃsāra—worldly existence). It takes a lot of effort to climb uphill. That climbing is done with the assistance of गुणाः (guṇāḥ—efficacies, merits, virtues). It takes a lot of guṇas for the Self to put one step ahead of another and conquer the uphill trek. 

Whereas a small effort in the opposite direction, a gentle push given by the दोषाः (doṣāḥ—defects, blemishes, faults, weaknesses—can be given multitudes of names), very easily rolls the atmā downhill, in an instant, negating all the efforts in climbing up so far! At that point, the Self doesn't even have a hold on how far below it will reach. If there is a pivot strong enough on the way, it might stop midway, else, it will fall all the way down and then some (because of the potential gained during the rolling!

One needs to be very cautious about every action and thought. They can either be a guṇa or a doṣa. If the conquest of sasaṃsāra is the goal, guṇās and doṣās must be entertained or rejected accordingly!

pada vigrahaH:

आरोप्यते शिला शैले यथा यत्नेन भूयसा ।
āropyate śilā śaile yathā yatnena bhūyasā ।

निपात्यते सुखेन् आधः तथा अत्मा गुण-दोषयोः ॥
nipātyate sukhen ādhaḥ tathā atmā guṇa-doṣayoḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aaropyate shilaa shaile yathaa yatnena bhUyasaa ।
nipaatyate sukhenaadhaH tathaatmaa guNadoShayoH ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

aaropyate shilaa shaile yathaa yatnena bhUyasaa ।

nipaatyate sukhen aadhaH tathaa atmaa guNa-doShayoH ॥

March 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
हीयते हि मतिस्तात हीनैः सह समागमात् ।
समैश्च समतामेति विशिष्टैश्च विशिष्टताम् ॥
- हितोपदेश


Transliteration:
hīyate hi matistāta hīnaiḥ saha samāgamāt ।
samaiśca samatāmeti viśiṣṭaiśca viśiṣṭatām ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Oh, Sir! In the company of the inferior, intellect attains inferiority; with equals, it attains evenness; with the distinguished, it excels!

Commentary:

As is the company, so will the intellect—prosper or fail.

Just as one rotten apple spoils the whole lot, a company of the forsaken makes one perform actions that are forbidden. There isn't any positive growth. On the contrary, there is deterioration. At any cost, one should keep away from such influences.

Being with equals does no harm to one's thinking or his prospects. They do not drop in the growth chart, but they do not attain greater heights either. Their progress plateaus and knowledge stagnates. Although this is not as bad as the previous type of association, it isn't very beneficial either.

Association with the distinguished and wise makes even a dull-witted person wise. There is no downside to this kind of company. One does not fall off from his level of intellect nor does he stagnate. However small, there is growth for sure! One should always aim higher than himself and keep his eyes on goals that make him better with each passing day. This is possible only when the company kept is stellar.

Keep good company!

pada vigrahaH:
हीयते हि मतिः तात हीनैः सह समागमात् ।
hīyate hi matiḥ tāta hīnaiḥ saha samāgamāt ।

समैः च समताम् एति विशिष्टैः च विशिष्टताम् ॥
samaiḥ ca samatām eti viśiṣṭaiḥ ca viśiṣṭatām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

hIyate hi matistaata hInaiH saha samaagamaat ।

samaishcha samataameti vishiShTaishcha vishiShTataam ॥

- hitopadesha

hIyate hi matiH taata hInaiH saha samaagamaat ।

samaiH cha samataam eti vishiShTaiH cha vishiShTataam ॥

January 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
जलबिन्दुनिपातेन क्रमशः पूर्यते घटः ।
स हेतुः सर्वविद्यानां धर्मस्य च धनस्य च ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद


Transliteration:
jalabindunipātena kramaśaḥ pūryate ghaṭaḥ ।
sa hetuḥ sarvavidyānāṃ dharmasya ca dhanasya ca ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

As droplets of water drip down, the pot fills up slowly. This is the reason (and motivation) for all vidyā (knowledge), virtue, and wealth too.

Commentary:

Tiny drops make the mighty ocean, isn't it?!

Every droplet of water is just as important as the other.  Together, all of them culminate into a big and mighty ocean. No drop is futile, because if one keeps discounting the little drops, the whole ocean will be drained out.

The same is true while learning, earning, or practicing moral merit. Every little bit of knowledge accounts for making a person erudite! Every aspect of one's wealth makes him wealthy. Every action of virtue converges to make a person meritorious.

One needs to utilize every learning opportunity that presents itself to him and use every passing moment to better himself and do good deeds. Every wasted drop keeps the pot from being full!

The expert in anything was once a beginner!  Let's get learning.

pada vigrahaH:

जल बिन्दु निपातेन क्रमशः पूर्यते घटः ।
jala bindu nipātena kramaśaḥ pūryate ghaṭaḥ ।

सः हेतुः सर्व-विद्यानां धर्मस्य च धनस्य च ॥
saḥ hetuḥ sarva-vidyānāṃ dharmasya ca dhanasya ca ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
jalabindunipaatena kramashaH pUryate ghaTaH ।
sa hetuH sarvavidyaanaaM dharmasya cha dhanasya cha ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

jala bindu nipaatena kramashaH pUryate ghaTaH ।

saH hetuH sarva-vidyaanaaM dharmasya cha dhanasya cha ॥

January 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दुर्जनः प्रियवादीति नैतद्विश्वासकारणम् ।
मधु तिष्ठति जिह्वाग्रे हृदये तु हलाहलम् ॥ 
- हितोपदेश


Transliteration:
durjanaḥ priyavādīti naitadviśvāsakāraṇam ।
madhu tiṣṭhati jihvāgre hṛdaye tu halāhalam ॥
- hitopadeśa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Because an evil-doer speaks nicely, it shouldn't be the reason for trust. There is honey at the tip of the tongue, but poison at heart.

Commentary:

Know thy friends and foes!

Just because a person speaks sweetly doesn't mean he has your best interest at heart. Those who are wicked and evil at heart might speak like sweet honey, yet they will stab you in the back.

At the same time, it doesn't mean that every person speaking sweetly has an agenda. There is no dearth of nice people in this world who genuinely speak from their hearts.

Knowing people well before letting them influence us is a beneficial way to interact.  Don't believe a sweet talker.  Believe someone whose actions and words align with each other.  

pada vigrahaH:

दुर्जनः प्रियवादी इति न एतत् विश्वास कारणम् ।
durjanaḥ priyavādī iti na etat viśvāsa kāraṇam ।

मधु तिष्ठति जिह्व अग्रे हृदये तु हलाहलम् ॥
madhu tiṣṭhati jihva agre hṛdaye tu halāhalam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
durjanaH priyavaadIti naitadvishvaasakaaraNam ।
madhu tiShThati jihvaagre hRudaye tu halaahalam ॥
- hitopadesha

durjanaH priyavaadI iti na etat vishvaasa kaaraNam ।

madhu tiShThati jihva agre hRudaye tu halaahalam ॥

December 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यस्मिन् देशे न सम्मानो न प्रीतिर्न च बान्धवाः । 

न च विद्यागमः कश्चिन्न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ


Transliteration:
yasmin deśe na sammāno na prītirna ca bāndhavāḥ ।

na ca vidyāgamaḥ kaścinna tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not live in such a place even for a day where there is—no respect, no affection, no relatives, nor an avenue for learning.

Commentary:

The place we call home should have something more than just material comforts. One can live in a palatial building, sleep on the softest bed, eat from golden plates and spoons, and still be unhappy. For happiness to be present in a home, there needs to be respect and love for one another. There also needs to be dear ones around. (Family doesn't necessarily mean related by blood. It is all the kin who one considers close to their heart.)

Wherever we are, we need to learn and grow, each and every day. If there is no avenue for learning and growing as individuals, then such a place will not be suitable as a home, either. The poet vehemently advises not to live in such a place even for a single day.

The lesson to be learnt here is: don't run away from home if these things are not available, rather work towards making conditions better! It is a reminder to make sure that a home is a happy place where everyone respects, loves, understands, and allows each other to grow as individuals.

Create a nurturing environment for those around you. Growing and allowing everyone to flourish is the key to happiness!  

pada vigrahaH:

यस्मिन् देशे न सम्मानः न प्रीतिः न च बान्धवाः ।
yasmin deśe na sammānaḥ na prītiḥ na ca bāndhavāḥ ।

न च विद्यागमः कश्चित् न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
na ca vidyāgamaḥ kaścit na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yasmin deshe na sammaano na preetirna cha baandhavaaH ।
na cha vidyaagamaH kashchinna tatra divasaM vaset ॥
- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

yasmin deshe na sammaanaH na preetiH na cha baandhavaaH ।

na cha vidyaagamaH kashchit na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

November 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
धनिकः श्रोत्रियो राजा नदी वैद्यस्तु पञ्चमः ।
पञ्च यत्र न विद्यन्ते न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
- हितोपदेश, मित्रलाभ

Transliteration:
dhanikaḥ śrotriyo rājā nadī vaidyastu pañcamaḥ ।
pañca yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥
- hitopadeśa, mitralābha

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not live in a place, even for a single day, where the following 5 are not available—a wealthy person, theologian, king, river, and the doctor is the fifth.

Commentary:

Basic essentials!

When civilizations emerged, the early settlers would see if the land they selected was appropriate to build their society and if the basic necessities were satisfied.

Similarly, in a land where we want to call home, there should be:

1. Wealthy person—indicates prosperity.
2. Theologian—represents the faith and education of the society.
3. King (not necessarily the same designation, but a leader)—depicts order in the society and not anarchy.
4. River—shows that the land is cultivatable and will aid in prosperity.
5. Doctor—so that in times of illness, care is available instantaneously.

These five essentials promise progress and prosperity to the community.  Also, it is the responsibility and prime duty of these figures, to make sure that society receives their services in a timely and appropriate manner.

Make a home where there are prospects for prosperity!

pada vigrahaH:
धनिकः श्रोत्रियः राजा नदी वैद्यः तु पञ्चमः ।
dhanikaḥ śrotriyaḥ rājā nadī vaidyaḥ tu pañcamaḥ ।

पञ्च यत्र न विद्यन्ते न तत्र दिवसं वसेत् ॥
pañca yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaṃ vaset ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

dhanikaH shrotriyo raajaa nadI vaidyastu pa~nchamaH ।

pa~ncha yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

- hitopadesha, mitralaabha

dhanikaH shrotriyaH raajaa nadI vaidyaH tu pa~nchamaH ।

pa~ncha yatra na vidyante na tatra divasaM vaset ॥

October 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
नाभिषेको न संस्कारः सिंहस्य क्रियते मृगैः ।
विक्रमार्जितवित्तस्य स्वयमेव मृगेन्द्रता ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुह्रुद्भेद


Transliteration:
nābhiṣeko na saṃskāraḥ siṃhasya kriyate mṛgaiḥ ।
vikramārjitavittasya svayameva mṛgendratā ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhrudbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

No coronation or ritual is done by animals; Acquisition (of territory) due to natural prowess makes him King of the jungle.

Commentary:

"If you want to know someone’s mind, listen to their words. If you want to know their heart, watch their actions."

A lion majestically roaming in the jungle did not have a crowning ceremony, nor were any rituals performed by the other animals for him. He doesn't even have to be declared as the 'King of the Jungle'. He marks his territory in the jungle just by his majestic roar.  When he roams, all the other animals hide!  They all know him through his power, courage, valor, and fearlessness.  They know he is the rightful king! Such should be the effect of our actions.

Whatever be the quality: bravery, piety, generosity, nobility, or intelligence, the asset should be expressed through its respective deeds rather than just speech.

Actions speak louder than words.  Let actions speak for themselves!

pada vigrahaH:

न अभिषेकः न संस्कारः सिंहस्य क्रियते मृगैः ।
na abhiṣekaḥ na saṃskāraḥ siṃhasya kriyate mṛgaiḥ ।

विक्रम-अर्जित-वित्तस्य स्वयम् एव मृग-इन्द्रता ॥
vikrama-arjita-vittasya svayam eva mṛga-indratā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
naabhiSheko na saMskaaraH siMhasya kriyate mRugaiH ।
vikramaarjitavittasya svayameva mRugendrataa ॥
- hitopadesha, suhrudbheda

na abhiShekaH na saMskaaraH siMhasya kriyate mRugaiH ।

vikrama-arjita-vittasya svayam eva mRuga-indrataa ॥