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 ॥

October 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

हरौ रुष्टे गुरुस्त्राता गुरौ रुष्टे न कश्चन ।

तस्मात् सर्वप्रयत्नेन श्रीगुरुं शरणं व्रजेत् ॥

- गुरु गीता

Transliteration:

harau ruṣṭe gurustrātā gurau ruṣṭe na kaścana ।

tasmāt sarvaprayatnena śrīguruṃ śaraṇaṃ vrajet ॥

- guru gītā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

If God gets angry, the Guru will protect.  If Guru gets angry, there is none (savior).  Hence, with all possible efforts, seek refuge in the Guru. 

Commentary:

A guru is not just a teacher. While a teacher demands discipline and obedience, a guru calls for trust and humility. A teacher prepares us for the outer journey, while a guru strips our ego to guide us on the inner path.

A guru eradicates our ignorance, revealing our true nature. He lights the lamp within, leading us from the transient to the eternal. He does not simply impart knowledge—he awakens the life force within us, dispelling our darkness and illuminating the truth of who we really are. In this way, he becomes the map for navigating life’s unknown terrain.

Through his words, we encounter the divinity within. Without a guru, we would remain blind to the essence of the divine. When a person was asked, “If your guru and God appeared together, whom would you bow to first?” his reply was, “I will pray to my guru first, for he is the one who showed me God.” Such is the power of a true guru!

This verse further extols the greatness of a guru: even if the Gods are angry with us, the guru’s grace can still save us. But should the guru be enraged, no refuge remains—not even under God. Thus, it is crucial to take shelter at the guru’s feet, for that is the surest way to eternal bliss.

What the guru is—his presence, his wisdom—is more important than what he teaches. 

May the eternal flow of his wisdom quench the thirst of those who seek the truth.

pada vigrahaH:

हरौ रुष्टे गुरुः त्राता गुरौ रुष्टे न कश्चन ।

harau ruṣṭe guruḥ trātā gurau ruṣṭe na kaścana ।

तस्मात् सर्व-प्रयत्नेन श्री-गुरुं शरणं व्रजेत् ॥

tasmāt sarva-prayatnena śrī-guruṃ śaraṇaṃ vrajet ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

harau ruShTe gurustraataa gurau ruShTe na kashchana । 

tasmAt sarvaprayatnena shrIguruM sharaNaM vrajet ॥

- guru gItaa

harau ruShTe guruH traataa gurau ruShTe na kashchana । 

tasmAt sarva-prayatnena shrI-guruM sharaNaM vrajet ॥

October 12th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

जीवन्तु मे शत्रुगणाः सदैव  येषां प्रसादत्सुविचक्षणोऽहम्  ।

ये ये यथा मां प्रतिबाधयन्ति ते ते तथा मां प्रतिबोधयन्ति  ॥

Transliteration:

jīvantu me śatrugaṇāḥ sadaiva yeṣāṃ prasādatsuvicakṣaṇo'ham ।

ye ye yathā māṃ pratibādhayanti te te tathā māṃ pratibodhayanti ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

May the tribe of my enemies prosper, due to whose grace I am wiser.  Whoever has troubled me, they all have only taught me! 

Commentary:

"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer!" While often quoted as a caution to watch enemies with greater vigilance, this verse shows a different dimension and a deeper meaning.

With a generous heart, the poet offers blessings of prosperity even to his enemies! Rather than cursing them, he expresses gratitude—for it is through their hostility that he sharpened his mind and cultivated wisdom. Every insult, and every challenge they threw his way only served to make him stronger. He says, his growth was a direct result of their opposition.

In fact, it is smart to pay attention to one’s enemies. They are the first to uncover our faults, eager to expose every weakness. If a person aspires to improve himself every day enemies are his most efficient critics. They point out what friends might overlook, providing valuable lessons in disguise.

When a person takes a stand for something meaningful making enemies is inevitable. An absence of enemies might as well mean that he never stood up for anything.  Fighting for a cause means inviting opposition, and opposition often reveals the true strength of one’s convictions.

However, hatred toward enemies must be avoided, for hatred clouds judgment and weakens the spirit. Hence, real enemies are better than false friends. An enemy reveals his true intentions without pretense, whereas a fake friend hides betrayal behind a smile. If one's merit is undeniable, even the enemy is compelled to acknowledge it—and such reluctant praise carries the highest value!

Do not hate your enemies. They give you strength and resilience.  Letting go of hate ends the enmity from your side and frees you to see things clearly. An enemy too, can be life’s most unexpected teacher! Embrace learning from anywhere, anyone, and any source. 

pada vigrahaH:

जीवन्तु मे शत्रु-गणाः सदा एव  येषां प्रसादात् सुविचक्षणः अहम् ।

jīvantu me śatru-gaṇāḥ sadā eva yeṣāṃ prasādāt suvicakṣaṇaḥ aham ।

ये ये यथा मां प्रति-बाधयन्ति ते ते तथा मां प्रति-बोधयन्ति  ॥

ye ye yathā māṃ prati-bādhayanti te te tathā māṃ prati-bodhayanti ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

jeevantu me shatrugaNaaH sadaiva yeShaaM prasaadatsuvichakShaNo.ham ।

ye ye yathaa maaM pratibaadhayanti te te tathaa maaM pratibodhayanti ॥

jeevantu me shatru-gaNaaH sadaa eva yeShaaM prasaadaat suvichakShaNaH aham ।

ye ye yathaa maaM prati-baadhayanti te te tathaa maaM prati-bodhayanti ॥

October 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:

ध्यानमूलं गुरोर्मूर्तिः पूजामूलं गुरोः पदम् ।

मन्त्रमूलं गुरोर्वाक्यं मोक्षमूलं गुरोः कृपा ॥

Transliteration:

dhyānamūlaṃ gurormūrtiḥ pūjāmūlaṃ guroḥ padam ।

mantramūlaṃ gurorvākyaṃ mokṣamūlaṃ guroḥ kṛpā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The form of a guru is the root of meditation; the feet of a guru are the source of worship; the words of a guru are the origins of mantras (guidance); the grace of a guru is the basis of (attaining) liberation.  

Commentary:

A guru is exalted as God.  He is revered as divine, placed at par with one’s mother and father. The Sanskrit expression गुरुत्वात् गुरुः (gurutvāt guruḥ) translates to: “One is called a guru due to the weight of his profound qualities.”  Here, a guru is not just someone who imparts a few lessons or skills. In the truest sense, a guru is the one who leads us to Self-knowledge, the realization of our true essence beyond body, mind, and intellect.

In the presence of such a guru, one experiences an unshakable peace of mind, free from fear and anxiety. Such a master, capable of dissolving ignorance and guiding us toward the Self, deserves the title—Guru.

Self-knowledge offers the deepest understanding of who we truly are. One can access this wisdom only through the grace and guidance of a guru. By ourselves, we remain entangled in the illusion of samsāra, the cycle of worldly sorrows. Our habitual identification with the body, mind, and intellect binds us to suffering. However, the guru's teachings break these shackles, leading us toward inner freedom. The knowledge he imparts frees us from ignorance, thereby dissolving our attachments and illusions.

There is no adequate way to express our gratitude to a guru.  All question marks bow down in front of the exclamatory experience of a Guru! His wisdom transforms our lives, pointing us to the ultimate Truth.  

It is said, "When the disciple is ready, the guru appears. When the disciple is truly ready, the guru disappears."  This reflects the selfless nature of a guru. A true teacher never fosters dependence but instead empowers the disciple to become independent in his quest for Truth. A guru gives the right knowledge, guiding the student to awaken to the Truth on his own. 

Hence, the verse rightly proclaims that the very form of a guru is a focal point enough for meditation.  His feet are the perfect place to offer our worship, symbolizing surrender and reverence.  His words are the very source of mantras (Vedic words that give us ultimate knowledge).  We would not be able to understand the mantras without a guru's counsel.  Finally, with his divine grace, we can attain liberation, realizing our oneness with the Absolute. He is not merely a teacher but the bridge between ignorance and realization, bondage and freedom.

Thus, a guru is the one who shows us the way beyond worldly illusions, guiding us toward the Truth of our being, where all separation dissolves. Through his guidance, we awaken to the truth of who we are, and through his grace, we achieve liberation.

May the guru help us cross the ocean of samsāra with ease!

pada vigrahaH:

ध्यान-मूलं गुरोः मूर्तिः पूजा-मूलं गुरोः पदम् ।

dhyāna-mūlaṃ guroḥ mūrtiḥ pūjā-mūlaṃ guroḥ padam ।

मन्त्र-मूलं गुरोः वाक्यं मोक्ष-मूलं गुरोः कृपा ॥

mantra-mūlaṃ guroḥ vākyaṃ mokṣa-mūlaṃ guroḥ kṛpā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:

dhyaanamUlaM gurormUrtiH pUjaamUlaM guroH padam |

mantramUlaM gurorvaakyaM mokShamUlaM guroH kRupaa ||

dhyaana-mUlaM guroH mUrtiH pUjaa-mUlaM guroH padam |

mantra-mUlaM guroH vaakyaM mokSha-mUlaM guroH kRupaa ||

September 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्थानेषु शिष्यनिवहैर्विनियुज्यमाना
विद्या गुरुं हि गुणवत्तरमातनोति ।
आदाय शुक्तिषु बलाहकविप्रकीर्णैः
रत्नाकरो भवति वारिभिरम्बुराशिः ॥
- अनर्घराघव

Transliteration:
sthāneṣu śiṣyanivahairviniyujyamānā
vidyā guruṃ hi guṇavattaramātanoti ।
ādāya śuktiṣu balāhakaviprakīrṇaiḥ
ratnākaro bhavati vāribhiramburāśiḥ ॥
- anargharāghava

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(When) a student employs (appropriate) knowledge at the right place, it certainly is a manifestation of his guru's knowledge.  (After all) it is the ocean that is called 'ratnākara' (maker of precious jewels) as he brings the scattered raindrops from the clouds to the pearl shells (to make the pearls)!

Commentary:

One may be very skilled and efficient at performing an assigned task.  But the truth is, the skill is just a manifestation of the knowledge given to him by his guru!  It is the guru who identifies the potential in a student and gives him the knowledge that he can carry.  The guru shapes such a student with all the tools essential for his chosen field.  He makes the student capable enough to pull out the right tool at the right time and employ it for the right purpose.  The outcome of the student's actions is truly a manifestation of the greatness of the teacher himself!

A beautiful example that establishes this is the 'ocean', popularly referred to as ratnākara (gem-maker).  The clouds can shower all the rain they want and oysters in the pearl shells can keep their shells open for as long as they choose. But if the ocean does not deliver the scattered raindrops from the clouds to the oysters, they cannot make beautiful pearls!  Although the oyster physically makes the pearl, the credit goes to the ocean by naming him as 'ratnākara'!  The guru is the channel through whom vidyā is transmitted from generation to generation and is hence upheld always.

Prostrations to the guru who is himself an embodiment of knowledge and the authority for transcending that knowledge through the generations!  Veneration to the feet of our gurus for all that we are today!!

pada vigrahaH:
स्थानेषु शिष्य-निवहैः विनियुज्यमाना
sthāneṣu śiṣya-nivahaiḥ viniyujyamānā

विद्या गुरुं हि गुणवत्तरम् आतनोति ।
vidyā guruṃ hi guṇavattaram ātanoti ।

आदाय शुक्तिषु बलाहक-विप्रकीर्णैः
ādāya śuktiṣu balāhaka-viprakīrṇaiḥ

रत्नाकरः भवति वारिभिः अम्बु-राशिः ॥
ratnākaraḥ bhavati vāribhiḥ ambu-rāśiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sthaaneShu shiShyanivahairviniyujyamaanaa
vidyaa guruM hi guNavattaramaatanoti ।
aadaaya shuktiShu balaahakaviprakIrNaiH
ratnaakaro bhavati vaaribhiramburaashiH ॥
- anargharaaghava

sthaaneShu shiShya-nivahaiH viniyujyamaanaa
vidyaa guruM hi guNavattaram aatanoti ।
aadaaya shuktiShu balaahaka-viprakIrNaiH
ratnaakaraH bhavati vaaribhiH ambu-raashiH ॥

June 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
कन्यादाताऽन्नदाता च ज्ञानदाताऽभयप्रदः ।
जन्मदो मन्त्रदो ज्येष्ठभ्राता च पितरः स्मृतः ॥

Transliteration:
kanyādātā'nnadātā ca jñānadātā'bhayapradaḥ ।
janmado mantrado jyeṣṭhabhrātā ca pitaraḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

One who gives his daughter in marriage; one who provides food; one who bestows knowledge; one who guards against fear; one who gives birth; one who bestows counsel; one (brother) who is born ahead of you—all these (luminaries) are deemed as fathers.

Commentary:

It is said that there is no other need in childhood as strong as the need for protection from a father! Fathers are revered for their many contributions along the various facets of life starting with—giving life, caring, and nurturing.  He propitiates the child into new beginnings time and again. He is the one who invigorates his young ones to explore life and then helps formulate their future.  The greatest gift any father can give his child is—believing in the child!  He instills trust in the child.

The poet says that one comes across many such fatherly figures during his lifetime. They are

• the one who gives his daughter's hand in marriage. The father-in-law trusts and bequeaths his daughter to her husband.  She bears progeny for her husband, making him a father.  Veneration for that.
• the one who provides food and tends to one's hunger.  This is a fatherly gesture for sure. Respect to him.
• the one who bestows knowledge gives birth to a new perspective in the intellect of the person.  He contributes to the person's growth and is therefore exalted to the stature of a father.
• the one who guards against fear and reassures the faith that all will be well! Admiration to him.
• the one who gives birth is certainly revered.  If not for him, one wouldn't be here speaking about who to revere!! The care and nurture given by him are irreplaceable. Love and respect for him is a given.
• the one who bestows counsel and guides in the right direction like a father. Honor to him.
• the one who is born ahead of us (an elder brother), is nothing less than a father as he steps up to be a father figure! If one is afraid to approach his father for anything, it is easier to approach the elder brother. Cherish him.

A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow! These aforementioned magnanimous personalities shape a person from childhood on.  

Fathers are honored always for their roles and contributions to our lives!  Obeisance to them.

pada vigrahaH:
कन्यादाता अन्नदाता च ज्ञानदाता अभयप्रदः ।
kanyādātā annadātā ca jñānadātā abhayapradaḥ ।

जन्मदः मन्त्रदः ज्येष्ठ-भ्राता च पितरः स्मृतः ॥
janmadaḥ mantradaḥ jyeṣṭha-bhrātā ca pitaraḥ smṛtaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
kanyaadaataa.nnadaataa cha j~naanadaataa.bhayapradaH ।
janmado mantrado jyeShThabhraataa cha pitaraH smRutaH ॥

kanyaadaataa annadaataa cha j~naanadaataa abhayapradaH ।

janmadaH mantradaH jyeShTha-bhraataa cha pitaraH smRutaH ॥

July 6th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पितृभिस्ताडितः पुत्रः शिष्यस्तु गुरुशिक्षितः ।
घनाहतं सुवर्णञ्च प्राप्यते जनमण्डनम् ॥

Transliteration:
pitṛbhistāḍitaḥ putraḥ śiṣyastu guruśikṣitaḥ ।
ghanāhataṃ suvarṇañca prāpyate janamaṇḍanam ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A son (child) disciplined by his parents, students trained by a teacher, intensely clobbered gold—all these attain praiseworthiness.   

Commentary:

By nature, children are, curious.  They are curious not just about the world around them but also regarding their boundaries—of what they should or shouldn't do.  Their inquisitive minds want to see how far they can push.  Many times, despite knowing the dos and don'ts, they may still want to try their luck.  At that point, it becomes essential for the parents, teachers, or whoever is their guiding figure, to give them the proper direction.  If the people who must guide the children end up cushioning their follies to avoid making them sad, they would be doing a disservice to them!

As it is said, 'Do not prepare the road for your children; prepare your children for the road!'  When real-life issues strike, better-prepared children will recover sooner even if they fall.

In reality, both parents and teachers strive to imbibe excellence in children.  The sayings go as—पुत्रादिच्छेत् पराजयम् (putrādicchet parājayam) and शिष्यादिच्छेत् पराजयम् (śiṣyādicchet parājayam).  This means that parents desire defeat from their children and gurus yearn for defeat from their students!  In fact, the whole reason why they put so much effort into guiding the youngsters is to see them surpass themselves!

The example given in the verse is that of gold.  Gold, when first mined, is dull and lustreless.  The goldsmith melts it, beats it repeatedly on the anvil, and shapes it.  Only then does it gain its luster as well as value!  Similarly, children who are disciplined and shaped with values from a young age accrue praiseworthy traits that will make them happier adults later.  Hence, it is of paramount importance for parents as well as teachers, to equip their children and students with this quintessential skill.

Discipline is the bridge that connects goals to accomplishments. Be that essential bridge, enabling future generations to achieve their aspirations!

pada vigrahaH:
पितृभिः ताडितः पुत्रः शिष्यः तु गुरु-शिक्षितः ।
pitṛbhiḥ tāḍitaḥ putraḥ śiṣyaḥ tu guru-śikṣitaḥ ।

घन आहतं सुवर्णं च प्राप्यते जन-मण्डनम् ॥
ghana āhataṃ suvarṇaṃ ca prāpyate jana-maṇḍanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pitRubhistaaDitaH putraH shiShyastu gurushikShitaH ।
ghanaahataM suvarNa~ncha praapyate janamaNDanam ॥

pitRubhiH taaDitaH putraH shiShyaH tu guru-shikShitaH ।

ghana aahataM suvarNaM cha praapyate jana-maNDanam ॥

June 16th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
ज्येष्ठो भ्राता पिता चैव यश्च विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
त्रयस्ते पितरो ज्ञेयाः धर्मे वर्त्मनि वर्तिनः ॥
-रामायण, किष्किन्धा

Transliteration:

jyeṣṭho bhrātā pitā caiva yaśca vidyāṃ prayacchati ।
trayaste pitaro jñeyāḥ dharme vartmani vartinaḥ ॥
-rāmāyaṇa, kiṣkindhā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An elder brother, the father himself, and he who gives knowledge—these three are to be perceived (respected) as fathers by those on the path of virtue.

Commentary:

Father, as we know by definition, is the man who gives birth. He is to be respected and revered always! In one's life, many such father figures are encountered too.  The poet says

• an elder brother, who protects, nurtures, and guides his siblings, is also equivalent to a father. 
• the biological father is definitely revered for all the tending and selfless love he showers on his children!  
• a guru who imparts knowledge and gives birth to a new perspective in a person is also to be revered as a father! (Especially spiritual gurus and guides.  They help one absolve his ignorance and lead him on the path of ultimate knowledge).

Hence, those on the path of virtue find many such father figures to whom they offer veneration and obeisance throughout their lives. Many times, it may not be expressed in so many words, but that gratitude and high regard for them shall linger in the hearts of the virtuous forever!

May we all be blessed with such father figures and their guidance always!

pada vigrahaH:
ज्येष्ठः भ्राता पिता च एव यः च विद्यां प्रयच्छति ।
jyeṣṭhaḥ bhrātā pitā ca eva yaḥ ca vidyāṃ prayacchati ।

त्रयः ते पितरः ज्ञेया धर्मे वर्त्मनि वर्तिनः ॥
trayaḥ te pitaraḥ jñeyā dharme vartmani vartinaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
jyeShTho bhraataa pitaa chaiva yashcha vidyaaM prayachChati ।
trayaste pitaro j~neyaaH dharme vartmani vartinaH ॥
-raamaayaNa, kiShkindhaa

jyeShThaH bhraataa pitaa cha eva yaH cha vidyaaM prayachChati ।

trayaH te pitaraH j~neyaaH dharme vartmani vartinaH ॥

June 3rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उद्यन्तु शतमादित्याः उद्यन्तु शतमिन्दवः ।
न विना विदुषां वाक्यैः नश्यत्याभ्यन्तरं  तमः ॥
- सभारञ्जन शतक

Transliteration:
udyantu śatamādityāḥ udyantu śatamindavaḥ ।
na vinā viduṣāṃ vākyaiḥ naśyatyābhyantaraṃ tamaḥ ॥
- sabhārañjana śataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

May a hundred suns rise; may (there) rise a hundred moons; (but) without listening to the words of the wise men, the internal darkness cannot be annihilated!

Commentary:

There isn't enough darkness in the world to put out the light of one little candle.  At the same time, at the other end of the spectrum, 'there isn't enough light in this world to eradicate an ounce of the darkness within, without listening to the wise words of wisdom from the learned'!

Humans are in a unique situation than any other living beings.  A human is the only 'animal' blessed with the faculty of speech and understanding.  He is the only being who has been blessed with a thinking mind and an intellect to make choices!  Ever since the dinosaur era, has anyone heard of a more intelligent animal than a human?  

Why on earth did God give that facility only to humans, if He did not mean to set us apart from the rest of the creatures?  Would the Lord create even a strand of hair without a purpose?!!  Similarly, why did He create such an elaborate and complicated structure of language and thought processes exclusively for the human race?!!  Obviously, there was a specific and essential purpose for it!  

Would it be to show the supremacy of humans over other animals?  Definitely not!  Dominion and surrender aren't natural to any being.  That which doesn't come naturally, cannot be dharma.  That which is not dharma CANNOT be the purpose in the Lord's mind!  Then, what could it be?  The only possible reason could be—to spread the knowledge.., the ultimate Truth.

The ignorance within (equated to darkness), can be eradicated only through listening to the wise words of the learned.  Even if a hundred suns rise at once and a hundred moons emerge along with them, all that collective light is not sufficient to decimate the ignorance within!  The one and only ray of hope to cure the internal murkiness is, 'listening to the teaching of the great masters and seers'.  No other choice!

Isn't it better to light that candle of knowledge than curse the darkness?!

May the quest to find the light within bring us to our gurus.  May we find our guiding light and tread towards our goal with ease.   

pada vigrahaH:
उद्यन्तु शतम् आदित्याः उद्यन्तु शतम् इन्दवः ।

udyantu śatam ādityāḥ udyantu śatam indavaḥ ।

न विना विदुषां वाक्यैः नश्यति आभ्यन्तरं तमः ॥
na vinā viduṣāṃ vākyaiḥ naśyati ābhyantaraṃ tamaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
udyantu shatamaadityaaH udyantu shatamindavaH ।
na vinaa viduShaaM vaakyaiH nashyatyaabhyantaraM tamaH ॥
- sabhaara~njana shataka

udyantu shatam aadityaaH udyantu shatam indavaH ।

na vinaa viduShaaM vaakyaiH nashyati aabhyantaraM tamaH ॥

February 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
स्वर्गो धनं वा धान्यं वा विद्याः पुत्रास्सुखानि च ।
गुरुवृत्त्यनुरोधेन न किञ्चिदपि दुर्लभम् ॥
- रामायण

Transliteration:
svargo dhanaṃ vā dhānyaṃ vā vidyāḥ putrāssukhāni ca ।
guruvṛttyanurodhena na kiñcidapi durlabham ॥
- rāmāyaṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Heaven, wealth, grain (food), knowledge, children, and pleasures—none of these are unattainable for the one who reveres his teacher.

Commentary:

Without gurus, the world would not be where it is today. Even the simplest forms of knowledge—like hunting for food or kindling fire for warmth—have been passed down through generations by teaching. Without this transmission, each generation would be forced to start from scratch, time and time again!

The term “teacher” here extends far beyond the traditional school educator. A person learns from a multitude of sources throughout their life: parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, peers, and even strangers. Sometimes, the most unexpected sources or events in nature can impart profound lessons. For this reason, all sources of learning deserve respect and reverence.

A person who values and respects the knowledge they have gained—and honors those who imparted it—will find their path to progress and prosperity unimpeded. The good wishes and blessings of these teachers become a powerful force, guiding them toward the fulfillment of their aspirations.

Remember your teachers. Honor your teachers. Revere all those who have helped you grow.

pada vigrahaH:
स्वर्गः धनं वा धान्यं वा विद्याः पुत्राः सुखानि च ।
svargaḥ dhanaṃ vā dhānyaṃ vā vidyāḥ putrāḥ sukhāni ca ।

गुरु-वृत्ति अनुरोधेन न किञ्चित् अपि दुर्लभम् ॥
guru-vṛtti anurodhena na kiñcit api durlabham ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
svargo dhanaM vaa dhaanyaM vaa vidyaaH putraassukhaani cha ।
guruvRuttyanurodhena na ki~nchidapi durlabham ॥
- raamaayaNa

svargaH dhanaM vaa dhaanyaM vaa vidyaaH putraaH sukhaani cha ।

guru-vRutti anurodhena na ki~nchit api durlabham ॥

September 23rd

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

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

aachaaryaat paadam aadatte paadaM shiShyaH sva-medhayaa ।

kaalena paadam aadatte paadaM sabrahmachaaribhiH ||

September 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 13th

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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

rikta-paaNiH na pashyeta raajaanaM daivataM gurum ।

daivaj~naM putrakaM mitraM phalena phalam aadishet ॥

July 19th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
राजपत्नी गुरोः पत्नी मित्रपत्नी तथैव च ।
पत्नीमाता स्वमाता च पञ्चैता मातरः स्मृताः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति


Transliteration:
rājapatnī guroḥ patnī mitrapatnī tathaiva ca ।
patnīmātā svamātā ca pañcaitā mātaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A king's wife, teacher's wife, friend's wife, wife's mother, and his own (birth) mother: these 5 should be deemed as mother figures.

Commentary:

It is said, 'God couldn't be everywhere, so he made mothers!'  In a lifetime, one doesn't come across just one mother but many who fill that role. Hence, all of them deserve the same reverence as their own mother.

1. A leader or king protects and prospers the nation. He is revered as the father of his subjects. His wife is respected as a mother because she walks hand in hand with him for the welfare of the land.
2. A teacher guides and makes a person an able being. In the olden days, students lived at their teacher's house until learning was completed. The wife of the teacher fed them and showed affection to them just as a mother would. She is revered for her tending and affection.
3. A friend is a trusted person who stands by through thick and thin. Can that trust be repaid by disrespecting his wife? The highest position of honor one can give is that of a mother. Hence, the friend's wife is given this honor.
4. The mother of one's own wife is given this utmost regard. This is because the wife instills values in the entire family. All that she has learnt is through her mother. She passes on the teaching to her children in the household. Veneration to the wife's mother is for teaching ethics to his wife and giving away the daughter that she had nurtured so diligently!
5. If one says giving the highest order of reverence to others is that of a mother, what to speak of his own mother! She is the one who nurtures him in her womb, gives birth to him, tends to him, teaches him life's essence, instills ethics in him, and gives direction to his life. She does pretty much everything in her capacity to make sure that her child is secure and ready to take on life! Respecting her is not an option, it is natural! There are no words or deeds with which one can repay his mother. All one can do is imbibe her values, be the person she intended him to be, and be eternally grateful to her!

Like they say, 'It takes a village to raise a child'! All these roles of mothers contribute significantly. 'Beings are what their mothers made them'. Mothers are always held in the highest esteem!

pada vigrahaH:
राज-पत्नी गुरोः पत्नी मित्र-पत्नी तथ एव च ।
rāja-patnī guroḥ patnī mitra-patnī tatha eva ca ।

पत्नी-माता स्व-माता च पञ्च एताः मातरः स्मृताः ॥
patnī-mātā sva-mātā ca pañca etāḥ mātaraḥ smṛtāḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
raajapatnI guroH patnI mitrapatnI tathaiva cha ।
patnImaataa svamaataa cha pa~nchaitaa maataraH smRutaaH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

raaja-patnI guroH patnI mitra-patnI tatha eva cha ।

patnI-maataa sva-maataa cha pa~ncha etaaH maataraH smRutaaH ॥

June 21st

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


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

Meaning of the subhAShita:

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

Commentary:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

janitaa cha upanetaa cha yaH tu vidyaaM prayachChati ।

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

April 20th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पादाभ्यां न स्पृशेदग्निं गुरुं ब्राह्मणमेव च ।
नैव गां न कुमारीं च न वृद्धं न शिशुं तथा ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
pādābhyāṃ na spṛśedagniṃ guruṃ brāhmaṇameva ca ।
naiva gāṃ na kumārīṃ ca na vṛddhaṃ na śiśuṃ tathā ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Do not ever touch with (your) feet—the fire, a teacher (guru), a brahmin (learned person), a cow, an unmarried girl, the elderly, or also a child.

Commentary:

Reverence for others is part and parcel of our culture and is depicted and practiced in many symbolic forms. Showing the feet or touching others with one's feet has never been accepted as a symbol of respect or good manners. The purpose of feet is to make one mobile, not to disrespect others. Especially in the context of a few elites, it is even frowned upon!

Who are those and why?  

• Fire (Agni)—It is the purest, noblest, and grandest emblem of the Supreme power. Agni is one of the 5 elements. Then, why only Agni has been mentioned here?!  There are other 4 elements too! The reason is, that fire always rises upwards unlike any other element. (All other elements flow downwards or have no specific direction). That is why havis (oblations to Gods) are offered through fire so they can be carried upwards. Also, one can pollute the air, water, sound, and space (which too, are forms of God), but there is no such thing as fire pollution!  It can never be contaminated.  Instead, it is a purifier of everything, which is why it is called pāvaka (that which purifies). Hence, reverence to the manifestation of the Supreme in its purest form as Fire is upheld.
• Guru—he/she is not just a teacher in school. A mother and father are a child's primary gurus. Anyone else whom he meets along the way and learns a lesson or two from should also be revered as a guru. Reverence to all these teachers is commanded.
• Brahmin - he is a symbol of learning. He is on a quest in the path of Brahman.  Whether he is one's guru or not, reverence is expressed for the knowledge in him.   
• Cow—it is considered the mother of all worlds (गावो लोकस्य मातरः -gāvo lokasya mātaraḥ). It is the most pious animal and is hence a symbol of piety. Reverence to the cow is therefore validated.
• Women—They are worshipped and honored, always. They bear children and nurture the world. Even Gods are displeased when they are disrespected. An unmarried young girl is even more revered because she is a symbol of piety and purity. Negligence towards her is unacceptable! 
• The elderly—They are the backbone of society. Without their guidance and experience, youngsters would be lost. They would have to start all over, with every generation having to rediscover fire, reinvent the wheel, and try to progress onward. The age and experience of the elderly are always revered.
• Children—They are as innocent as can be! A child under 5 years of age is considered closest to the Supreme. They know no malice and have no hatred. Their egos are undeveloped. That divinity in them is to be revered.

Once reverence is accepted towards these elite beings, how can they be disrespected by touching with feet?! Feet are the lowest of one's organs, do not touch the revered with them.

Be courteous as well as respectful towards the divinity in others. Keep your feet to yourself and keep your manners! 

pada vigrahaH:
पादाभ्यां न स्पृशेत् अग्निं गुरुं ब्राह्मणम् एव च ।
pādābhyāṃ na spṛśet agniṃ guruṃ brāhmaṇam eva ca ।

न एव गां न कुमारीं च न वृद्धं न शिशुं तथा ॥
na eva gāṃ na kumārīṃ ca na vṛddhaṃ na śiśuṃ tathā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
paadaabhyaaM na spRushedagniM guruM braahmaNameva cha ।
naiva gaaM na kumaarIM cha na vRuddhaM na shishuM tathaa ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

paadaabhyaaM na spRushet agniM guruM braahmaNam eva cha ।

na eva gaaM na kumaarIM cha na vRuddhaM na shishuM tathaa ॥

March 25th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुरोरप्यवलिप्‍तस्य कार्याकार्यमजानतः ।
उत्पथं प्रतिपन्नस्य कार्यं भवति शासनम् ॥
- महाभारत


Transliteration:
gurorapyavalip‍tasya kāryākāryamajānataḥ ।
utpathaṃ pratipannasya kāryaṃ bhavati śāsanam ॥
- mahābhārata

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Even though he is a teacher or elderly, if he is haughty, astray, or doesn't distinguish between befitting and unfit deeds, one should not hesitate to chastise him.

Commentary:

As much as the culture professes—respecting elders and doing service to them—it also gives the youngsters the authority to call them out on their blunders and correct them when they go astray!

When a grown-up takes a wrong step, whether knowingly or unknowingly, youngsters are not just given the leniency to correct them, rather the verse says that it becomes their prime responsibility! Dharma should be upheld irrespective of age or position. The outcome of deeds will not change whether performed by a teacher, parent, or a king. That means virtue and righteousness (dharma) have no distinctions of designations. Whether it is a king, soldier, father, son, mother, daughter, teacher, or student—dharma has to be upheld and advocated by everyone.

Your dharma requires you to get out of your own way! Do not hesitate to stand up for and uphold dharma, no matter what.

pada vigrahaH:
गुरोः अपि अवलिप्‍तस्य कार्य-अकार्यम् अजानतः ।
guroḥ api avalip‍tasya kārya-akāryam ajānataḥ ।

उत्पथं प्रतिपन्नस्य कार्यं भवति शासनम् ॥
utpathaṃ pratipannasya kāryaṃ bhavati śāsanam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gurorapyavaliptasya kaaryaakaaryamajaanataH ।
utpathaM pratipannasya kaaryaM bhavati shaasanam ॥
- mahaabhaarata

guroH api avaliptasya kaarya-akaaryam ajaanataH ।

utpathaM pratipannasya kaaryaM bhavati shaasanam ॥

January 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुरवो बहवः सन्ति शिष्यवित्तापहारकाः ।
दुर्लभः स गुरुर्लोके शिष्यचित्तापहारकः ॥
- समयोचितपद्यमालिका


Transliteration:
guravo bahavaḥ santi śiṣyavittāpahārakāḥ ।
durlabhaḥ sa gururloke śiṣyacittāpahārakaḥ ॥
- samayocitapadyamālikā

Meaning of the subhAShita:

There are many teachers who take away wealth from the students. (However,) a teacher who captures the mind/thoughts of the students is hard to find in this world.

Commentary:

Teachers are held in very high esteem. It is said 'आचार्य देवो भव (ācārya devo bhava)' meaning, 'teacher is God himself'. Unfortunately, in the current world where education should be pivotal to the betterment of society, the people in charge of educating a whole new generation are not as dedicated to their duties as they should be. 

The entire education system is driven by monetary benefits for everyone involved, except the child and his family. Education is very expensive. The fees and other expenses are such an appalling burden on the parents that it makes their lives so stressful.  The true intent of education is lost in the process. 

Teachers should focus on making children better people so that they, in turn, make the world a better place. Value-based education, which inspires students and gets them excited about learning should be the goal. How often do we come across such inspiring teachers, whom we will never forget and be thankful for?! Sure, we have all had a handful of them! But how wonderful would it be if each and every teacher was like that?!

A good education can change anyone, whereas a good teacher can change everything!  Teachers are the guiding lights for society and future generations.  Salutations to such inspirers in our lives.

pada vigrahaH:

गुरवः बहवः सन्ति शिष्य-वित्त-अपहारकाः ।
guravaḥ bahavaḥ santi śiṣya-vitta-apahārakāḥ ।

दुर्लभः सः गुरुः लोके शिष्य-चित्त-अपहारकः ॥
durlabhaḥ saḥ guruḥ loke śiṣya-citta-apahārakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guravo bahavaH santi shiShyavittaapahaarakaaH ।
durlabhaH sa gururloke shiShyachittaapahaarakaH ॥
- samayochitapadyamaalikaa

guravaH bahavaH santi shiShya vitta apahaarakaaH ।

durlabhaH saH guruH loke shiShya chitta apahaarakaH ॥

January 22nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
यथा खनन् खनित्रेण नरो वार्यधिगच्छति ।
तथा गुरुगतां विद्यां शुश्रूषुरधिगच्छति ॥
- मनुस्मृति


Transliteration:
yathā khanan khanitreṇa naro vāryadhigacchati ।
tathā gurugatāṃ vidyāṃ śuśrūṣuradhigacchati ॥
- manusmṛti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just as a person gets to water by digging with a spade, similarly one attains vidyā (knowledge) from a guru (teacher) by serving him.

Commentary:

It is a known fact that to get to the water reserves on earth, one has to work tirelessly and dig with an axe/spade. To dig a well, one cannot just dig a few times here and there, then move from one place to another, and then again move to a different spot, etc. He has to choose the place he wants the well to be in and then keep digging deeper in the same location until he finds water. This process needs patience, perseverance, and dedication.  Only then, can he dig a well!

Similarly, if one is interested in learning vidyā, he needs to find the right guru for him, in whom he has total faith and trust. He needs to continuously serve this guru with utmost respect and dedication. Just as one can't make a well by digging in different spots, one cannot attain knowledge also by jumping from one guru to another, or by paying attention randomly and inconsistently. 

The attitude with which the guru is regarded makes a tremendous difference in the amount of learning. If two students go to the same guru—the one who is keen to learn will absorb more from the guru than the one who has barely paid attention. Just like blotting paper absorbs the liquid quicker than sandpaper, an eager and attentive student will absorb knowledge faster.  

Having the right attitude and perseverance are key to being good students.

आचार्य देवो भव (ācārya devo bhava)—(deem) the teacher as God himself!

pada vigrahaH:

यथा खनन् खनित्रेण नरः वारी अधिगच्छति ।
yathā khanan khanitreṇa naraḥ vārī adhigacchati ।

तथा गुरुगतां विद्यां शुश्रूषुः अधिगच्छति ॥
tathā gurugatāṃ vidyāṃ śuśrūṣuḥ adhigacchati ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
yathaa khanan khanitreNa naro vaaryadhigachChati ।
tathaa gurugataaM vidyaaM shushrUShuradhigachChati ॥
- manusmRuti

yathaa khanan khanitreNa naraH vaarI adhigachChati ।

tathaa gurugataaM vidyaaM shushrUShuH adhigachChati ॥

November 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुशब्दस्त्वन्धकारः रुशब्दस्तु तन्निवारकः ।
अन्धकार निरोधत्वात् गुरुरित्यभिधीयते ॥

Transliteration:
guśabdastvandhakāraḥ ruśabdastu tannivārakaḥ ।
andhakāra nirodhatvāt gururityabhidhīyate ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The syllable 'gu' stands for darkness; the syllable 'ru' stands for removal of that (darkness). Due to the removal of darkness, (he) is called a 'guru' (teacher).

Commentary:

Ignorance is considered as 'darkness'. Knowledge, on the contrary, is regarded as light. Just as there can't be darkness where there is light, there can't be ignorance where there is knowledge. The person who helps eradicate the darkness regarding our own true nature will be termed a 'guru'.  

All questions bow down in front of the exclamatory experience of the Guru!

There is not a thing in this world that can match what we receive from a guru. A guru is someone to whom each and every one of us is highly indebted.

Revere Gurus always!

pada vigrahaH:

गु-शब्दः तु अन्धकारः रु-शब्दः तु तत् निवारकः ।
gu-śabdaḥ tu andhakāraḥ ru-śabdaḥ tu tat nivārakaḥ ।

अन्धकार-निरोधत्वात् गुरुः इति अभिधीयते ॥
andhakāra-nirodhatvāt guruḥ iti abhidhīyate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
gushabdastvandhakaaraH rushabdastu tannivaarakaH ।
andhakaara nirodhatvaat gururityabhidhIyate ॥

gu-shabdaH tu andhakaaraH ru-shabdaH tu tat nivaarakaH ।

andhakaara-nirodhatvaat guruH iti abhidhIyate ॥