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This document is in Gurmukhi script, commonly used for Punjabi language.

ਵੇਮਨ ਸ਼ਤਕਮ੍ (ਤੇਲੁਗੁ)

ਯੋਗਿ ਵੇਮਨ is a 17th century saint-poet in Andhra Pradesh. Though born into a wealthy and high-caste family, he witnessed the injustice, hypocrisy, and blind rituals in society. Disillusioned by these, he renounced worldly pleasures and became a wandering yogi. During his spiritual journey, Vemana observed society deeply and penned his thoughts in simple, rustic Telugu.

He composed over 500 poetic verses known as ਵੇਮਨ ਸ਼ਤਕਂ—“Satakam” meaning a collection of 100 verses, though his works exceed that. Each verse ends with the famous signature line: "ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ" (O Vema, the beloved of the universe, listen!).

Why was it written?
ਵੇਮਨ wrote these verses to awaken people's inner wisdom. He criticized social evils like caste discrimination, religious hypocrisy, false gurus, pride, and greed. But his tone was not harsh—he used wit, metaphor, and folk-style language to convey deep truths with simplicity. His intent was to promote equality, honesty, self-awareness, and true spirituality—not ritualism.

ਤਲਪੁਲੋਨ ਗਲੁਗੁ ਦਾ ਦੈਵਮੇ ਪ੍ਰੋਦ੍ਦੁ
ਤਲਚਿ ਚੂਡਨਤਕੁ ਤਤ੍ਵਮਗੁਨੁ
ਵੂਰੁਅਕੁਂਡ ਨੇਰ੍ਵੁਨੁਤ੍ਤਮ ਯੋਗਿਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 1 ॥

Meaning:
This verse says that the real “dawn” or awakening in life doesn’t come just when the sun rises—it happens when thoughts of God arise in our mind. When we truly think of and try to see the Divine within, we come closer to understanding the deeper truth of life. But to reach that truth, we must be still, calm, and quiet—only then can we truly realize it. Without inner peace and silence, even a great yogi cannot reach true wisdom. So, Vemana reminds us that true light and clarity come from within, not from the outside world.

Commentary:
The essence of this verse is that true awakening happens not when the sun rises, but when thoughts of the Divine arise in our mind. Merely going through the day isn’t real living—life gains meaning only when we reflect on deeper truths. But this truth cannot be seen in a restless mind; it requires inner stillness and calmness. Vemana reminds us that in daily life, real spirituality is not in outer rituals, but in mindful, quiet reflection on the Divine within—that is the true path of a yogi.

ਤਨ ਵਿਰਕ੍ਤਿ ਯਨੇਡਿ ਦਾਸਿ ਚੇਤਨੁ ਜਿਕ੍ਕਿ
ਮਿਗਿਲਿ ਵੇਡਲਵੇਕ ਮਿਣੁਕੁਚੁਨ੍ਨ
ਨਰੁਡਿ ਕੇਡਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ ਵਰਲੇਡਿ ਚੇਪ੍ਪਡੀ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 2 ॥

Meaning:
When a person develops true detachment, it becomes like a loyal servant guiding them on the right path. With that detachment in place, the rest of the mind becomes steady and starts to shine like a polished mirror. At that stage, there is no difference between a human's downfall (kēdam) and liberation (mukti)—both lose their meaning, as the person goes beyond them. Vemana is saying that once you rise above attachment and ego, you reach a state where ideas of success or failure, bondage or freedom, no longer matter—you are free within.

Commentary:
This verse teaches that when a person develops true detachment (virakti), it becomes like a servant guiding them on the right path. Once detachment arises, the restless mind becomes calm and begins to shine clearly, like a polished surface. In such a state, the ideas of loss or liberation (kēdam or mukti) no longer disturb the person—they become irrelevant. In daily life, this means that when we stop clinging to desires and outcomes, we naturally find peace and clarity. Vemana’s message is that detachment isn’t about rejecting life, but about not being bound by it—and that leads to true inner freedom, which we can practice every day by letting go of craving, ego, and fear.

ਤਨਦੁ ਮਨਸੁਚੇਤ ਦਰ੍ਕਿਂਚਿ ਜ੍ਯੋਤਿਸ਼
ਮੇਂਤ ਚੇਸੇ ਨਨੁਚੁ ਨੇਂਚਿ ਚੂਚੁ,
ਤਨ ਯਦ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਸ਼੍ਟਮਂਤ ਦੈਵ ਮੇਰੂਂਗਡਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 3 ॥

Meaning:
A person uses their own mind to analyze and predict things, like an astrologer (jyotisha), and proudly thinks, “I understand everything.” They believe they can see and judge everything with their limited perspective. But Vemana asks—can God (or the deeper divine reality) be fully known just by how far one’s own vision or understanding reaches? No. The Divine is beyond the limits of personal judgment or intellect. Vemana reminds us that true wisdom is in realizing the limits of our own mind, and that the Divine truth is far greater than what we can grasp through mere reasoning

Commentary:
In daily life, people often rely too much on their own thoughts and assume they fully understand everything, like an astrologer confident in his predictions. But the human mind sees only a small part of reality, and the Divine cannot be measured by such limited vision. It’s a reminder to stay humble, to accept that not everything can be grasped by logic or opinion, and to remain open to greater truths beyond our understanding. Real wisdom begins when we recognize the limits of our perspective.

ਟੀਕ ਵ੍ਰਾਸਿਨਟ੍ਲੇਨੇਕੁਲੁ ਪੇਦ੍ਦਲੁ
ਲੋਕਮਂਦੁ ਜੇਪ੍ਪਿ ਮਂਚੁ
ਕਾਕੁਲਟ੍ਟਿ ਜਨੁਲ ਕਾਨਰੀ ਮਰ੍ਮਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 4 ॥

Meaning:
This verse means: The so-called scholars and elders who write commentaries (ṭīkalu) and give big talks in society may appear wise and respected. But in truth, they are like people showing the right path to others while being blind themselves. Vemana says such people are like crows pecking at frost, unable to see the true inner essence (marmamu) of life or scripture. Despite all their outer show, they fail to grasp the real spiritual truth. So, Vemana warns us not to be fooled by appearances—real wisdom lies in inner realization, not in empty words or displays of knowledge.

Commentary:
it’s easy to be impressed by people who write commentaries or speak with authority, gaining respect as scholars or elders. But many of them, despite their fame, lack true understanding of deeper truths. Like crows pecking at frost, they make noise without grasping the essence. It’s a reminder not to blindly follow outward show or empty words, but to seek real wisdom through personal reflection and sincerity. True insight doesn’t always come from loud voices—it comes from quiet depth.

ਜ੍ਞਾਨਮੇਨ੍ਨ ਗੁਰੁਵੁ ਜ੍ਞਾਨਹੈਨ੍ਯਮੁ ਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ
ਰੇਂਟਿਨਂਦੁ ਰਿਮ੍ਮਰੇਚੁਨਪੁਡੁ
ਰਿਮ੍ਮ ਤੇਲਿਪੇਨੇਨਿ ਰੇਂਡੋਕ ਰੂਪੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 5 ॥

Meaning:
People say "knowledge" (jñānaṁ) comes from a guru, and "understanding" (jñāna-hēṉyamu) comes from one's own intellect (buddhi). But when these two—guru’s teaching and personal thinking—collide or clash, confusion arises. When such a conflict happens, which one is true? Which one should we follow? Vemana is asking: If both sources give different views, how can we know which is right? It shows that real wisdom doesn’t come just from outside teaching or personal logic—it needs clarity beyond both, through inner realization.

Commentary:
People often rely on two sources for knowledge—the guru’s teaching and their own intellect. But when these two clash or give different directions, confusion arises. In such moments, it becomes hard to tell which one is right, as both may appear convincing. This highlights the need for inner clarity and discrimination, rather than blindly depending on either authority or personal logic. True understanding comes when one learns to balance external guidance with inner awareness, using both wisely without getting lost in conflict.

ਜਾਣਲਮਨਿ ਯਂਦ੍ਰੁ ਚਪਲਾਤ੍ਮੁਲਗੁਵਾਰੁ
ਤੇਲਿਵਿਲੇਕ ਤਮ੍ਮੁਤੇਲਿਯਲੇਰੁ
ਕਸ਼੍ਟਮੈਨ ਯਡਵਿ ਗਾਸੀਲੁਚੁਨ੍ਨਾਰੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 6 ॥

Meaning:
People often claim something is “good” (nalam ani) without understanding it deeply—they speak quickly and lightly (chapalaatmulagu vaaru) without real thinking. Because they lack true awareness (telivi), they don’t even know what’s truly good for themselves. As a result, they end up wandering in suffering, lost in confusion, facing hardships blindly. Vemana is saying that real goodness is not in words but in clear understanding, and without that, people keep chasing illusions and create their own sorrow.

Commentary:
In everyday life, many people quickly label something as “good” or “useful” without truly understanding it, simply out of impatience or shallowness. Without real knowledge or awareness, they don’t even know what is genuinely beneficial for themselves. As a result, they blindly chase things that bring more struggle and suffering. It’s a reminder to think carefully before judging, to seek clarity before acting, and not to follow the crowd without understanding. Wise choices come from calm thinking, not from impulsive opinions.

ਜਨਨ ਮਰਣਮੁਲਨ ਸ੍ਵਪ੍ਨ ਸੁਸ਼ੁਪ੍ਤੁਲੁ
ਜਗਮੁਲਂਦੁ ਨੇਂਡ ਜਗਮੁਲੁਂਡੁ
ਨਰੁਡੁ ਜਗਮੁਨਂਟ ਨਡੁਬਾਟੁ ਕਾਦੋਕੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 7 ॥

Meaning:
Birth and death, and even dream and deep sleep states, all seem very real—but they are like fleeting illusions, just like dreams. Within this world (jagamulandu), so many worlds (jagamulu) seem to exist. But Vemana asks: Is the human being (naruDu) truly permanent or central in this world? Or is he just a passing traveler, not the main figure he thinks he is? The verse questions the reality of worldly existence and reminds us that life, like a dream, is impermanent. Vemana urges us to reflect on the illusory nature of ego and worldly attachment, suggesting that true wisdom lies beyond this changing play.

Commentary:
Birth, death, dreams, and deep sleep may seem real, but they are all passing states—impermanent and ever-changing. The world appears vast, filled with many layers of experience, yet people often assume they are its central focus. This reflection encourages letting go of ego and recognizing that nothing in life is truly permanent. By understanding this, one can live more mindfully, stay grounded, and focus on what is truly meaningful rather than getting lost in the illusions of the world.

ਛਾਯਨਨੋਸਗੁਚੇਟ੍ਲੁ ਸਾਧੁਵੁ ਬੋਧਟ੍ਟੁ
ਲਡਗਿ ਦਰਿਨਿਜੇਰਿ ਪਡਯਵਚ੍ਚੁ
ਨਟ੍ਟੁਨਿਟ੍ਟੁ ਦਾਟਨਦਿ ਪੋਵੁਨਿਦਿ ਰਾਮ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 8 ॥

Meaning:
A true sādhuvu (spiritually evolved person) teaches with a cool and calming touch—like the gentle shade of a tree (chāyanu osagu cheṭṭu). Even if someone is troubled, lost, or caught in struggles, they can take shelter under such guidance and find relief or clarity. Just like the shade doesn’t choose whom to cool, a saintly person offers wisdom to all, regardless of who they are. Vemana says: Such is the path of truth—not something to be forced or exclusive, but open like shade to everyone. True spiritual wisdom is inclusive, soothing, and naturally transforming.

Commentary:
A truly wise and kind person—like a sadhu—is like a tree that gives cool shade. Just as anyone, even someone lost or tired, can rest under a shady tree and feel relief, a person with genuine wisdom and compassion provides comfort, guidance, and peace to others without discrimination. Such people don't force their presence or teachings but are quietly helpful to anyone who comes near. It reminds us to be calm, kind, and available to others, offering support without ego—just like shade that cools without asking who steps under it.

ਨਰੁਡੇਯੈਨ ਲੇਕ ਨਾਰਾਯਣੁਂਡੈਨ
ਤਤ੍ਤ੍ਵਬਦ੍ਧੁਡੈਨ ਦਰਣਿ ਨਰਯ
ਮਰਣਮੁਨ੍ਨਦਨੁਚੁ ਮਦਿਨਿ ਨਮ੍ਮਗਵਲੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 9 ॥

Meaning:
Whether a person is an ordinary human (naruDu) or even Nārāyaṇa himself, once they are bound to the material world (tattvabaddhuDu), and have taken birth on this earthly plane (daraṇi), they are subject to death. So, if someone says “death exists,” it is not just belief—it’s a truth we must accept. Vemana reminds us that no embodied being can escape death, however great they may be. This verse urges us to let go of ego, recognize life’s impermanence, and reflect on the deeper truth that lies beyond the body and birth-death cycle.

Commentary:
Whether one is an ordinary human or even a divine being like Nārāyaṇa, once bound by the laws of nature and born on this earth, they are subject to death. No one is beyond it. In daily life, this reminds us to accept the certainty of death with awareness and humility, rather than live in denial or pride. It encourages letting go of arrogance, valuing time, and living meaningfully—because no status, power, or identity can escape the truth of mortality. Remembering this truth can help us live more honestly, kindly, and purposefully.

ਦ੍ਵਾਰਂਬਂਧਮੁਨਕੁ ਦਲੁਪੁਲੁ ਗਡਿਯਲੁ
ਵਲੇਨੇ ਨੋਟਿਕੋਪ੍ਪੁਗਲ ਨਿਯਤੁਲੁ
ਧਰ੍ਮਮੇਰਿਗਿ ਪਲੁਕ ਧਨ੍ਯੁਂਡੌ ਭੁਵਿਲੋਨ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 10 ॥

Meaning:
For a door to be locked, it needs things like latches, bolts, and keys (dalupulu, gaḍiyalu), just as speech must be supported by reason and discipline (nōṭi koppugala niyatulu). In the same way, when a person speaks with a deep understanding of dharma (righteousness or moral order), that person is truly blessed in this world. Vemana emphasizes that just as a lock works only with proper parts, words gain value only when backed by knowledge, truth, and self-control. Mere speaking is not enough—wise, dharmic speech is what makes one truly honorable.

Commentary:
Just as a door needs proper locks, bolts, and keys to be secure, our speech must also be supported by restraint, discipline, and understanding. Speaking without control or knowledge is like a door without protection—open to harm and confusion. In daily life, this means that one should think before speaking, and ensure that words are rooted in truth and dharma (righteousness). A person who understands this and speaks wisely is truly blessed. It reminds us to use our words carefully, with awareness of their impact, making our speech a tool for harmony and truth.

ਬ੍ਰਹ੍ਮਘਟਮੁ ਮੇਨੁ ਪ੍ਰਾਣਂਬੁ ਤਗਗਾਲਿ
ਮਿਤ੍ਰਚਂਦ੍ਰ ਸ਼ਿਖੁਲੁ ਨੇਤ੍ਰਚਯਮੁ
ਮਰੁਇਯੁ ਬ੍ਰਹ੍ਮਮਨਗ ਮਹਿਮੀਦ ਲੇਦਯਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 11 ॥

Meaning:
The Brahma ghaṭam (sacred ritual pot) is considered holy in rituals, but to be truly sacred, it must contain life-force (prāṇa). People decorate it with mango leaves, sun and moon symbols, and draw eyes on it, treating it as divine. But Vemana asks—if life itself is said to be Brahman (the Supreme), then why don't we see the same sacredness in living beings as we do in that pot?

Commentary:
He questions ritual hypocrisy: we worship lifeless symbols with grandeur, but fail to recognize the divinity within living beings. The real holiness lies not in outer decoration, but in realizing the presence of Brahman in the living Self. True spirituality, Vemana says, lies in seeing that divinity in all life, not just in lifeless ritual objects.

This teaches that outer decoration or appearance has no value without inner essence or spirit. Just as we honor a lifeless object through ritual, we often forget to recognize the divinity in living beings, especially in ourselves and others. It reminds us to see the sacred in life itself, not just in symbols, and to value inner vitality, sincerity, and awareness over external show.

ਯੋਗਿਨਨੁਚੁ ਗੋਂਤ ਯੋਗਮੁਗੂਰ੍ਚਕ
ਜਗਮੁਨੇਲ੍ਲਬਟ੍ਟ ਚਂਪਿ ਤਿਨੁਚੁ
ਧਨਮੁ ਕੋਰੁਅਕੁ ਵਾਡੁ ਤਗਵਾਡੁਚੁਂਡਿਨ
ਯੋਗਿਕਾਡੁ ਵਾਡੇ ਯੋਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 12 ॥

Meaning:
Some people talk loudly about being a yogi, but they don’t truly practice yoga—instead, they roam around the world, exploiting it, destroying and consuming everything for their own gain. They may look simple or spiritual on the outside, but inside, they are only chasing wealth and selfish desires. Vemana says, even if such a person appears calm or humble, he is not a true yogi.

Commentary:
A real yogi is one who has given up greed, lives with inner detachment, and doesn’t harm or exploit others. Vemana exposes hypocrisy here: yoga is not in appearance or words—it is in one’s actions, self-restraint, and purity of heart.

ਅਰ੍ਧ ਯਂਕਣਮੁਨ ਕਾਧਾਰਮੈਨਟ੍ਟਿ
ਯੋਂਟਿਮੇਡ ਗੁਂਜੁ ਨੋਨਰਨਿਲ੍ਪੇ
ਨਿਂਟਿਕੋਕ ਮਗਂਡੇ ਯਿਲ੍ਲਾਂਡ੍ਰੁਨੇਦ੍ਗੁਰੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 13 ॥

Meaning:
Just as a beam (kaadhaaramu) supports only half a roof tile (ardha yaMkaNamuna), and yet holds it up at the edge of the roof (yoMTimēda), some people in this world are praised and treated as great leaders or gurus, even if they are not truly worthy. Vemana sarcastically says—just having a bit of support or position doesn’t make one genuinely great.

Commentary:
He points out the hollow leadership seen in society—even someone with no real substance or wisdom (niMTikoka magaMDe) can end up being the head of a household or a community (yillaaMDrunEdguru). The verse is a sharp reminder to not mistake outer roles or positions for true inner worth—real guidance comes from depth, not just title or status.

ਅਨ੍ਨਦਾਨਮੁਨਕੁ ਨਧਿਕ ਸਂਪਦਗਲ੍ਗਿ
ਯਮਰਲੋਕ ਪੂਜ੍ਯੁਡਗੁਨੁ ਮੀਰੂ
ਅਨ੍ਨਮਗੁਨੁ ਬ੍ਰਹ੍ਮਮਦਿ ਕਨਲੇਰਯਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 14 ॥

Meaning:
Among all forms of charity, giving food (annadānamu) is the greatest wealth. One who gives food generously becomes respected even in the world of Yama (the god of death), earning honor beyond this life. Vemana says—food is not just nourishment; it is Brahman itself, the divine essence. Yet, many people fail to recognize this sacred truth.

Commentary:
Through this, Vemana emphasizes that feeding the hungry is the highest form of service, because food sustains life, which is the very embodiment of the Divine. To give food with love is to worship God in living beings—a simple yet profound spiritual act.

ਬੋਂਦਿ ਯੇਵਰਿ ਸੋਮ੍ਮੁ ਪੋਸ਼ਿਂਪਬਲੁਮਾਰੁ
ਪ੍ਰਾਣ ਮੇਵਰਿ ਸੋਮ੍ਮੁ ਭਕ੍ਤਿਸੇਯ,
ਧਨਮਦੇਵਰਿਸੋਮ੍ਮੁ ਧਰ੍ਮਮੇ ਤਨ ਸੋਮ੍ਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 15 ॥

Meaning:
A servant (boMdi) cannot use his master's wealth (yevari sommu) to support others—it doesn't belong to him. In the same way, how can you offer your devotion (bhakti) using a life (prāṇa) or body that truly belongs to God? Even wealth (dhanamu) doesn't really belong to us—it is God's wealth, and the only thing that is truly ours is our righteous conduct (dharma).

Commentary:
Vemana beautifully points out that everything we think we own—our body, wealth, even life—is not truly ours. Only our actions rooted in dharma are our real possessions. So, instead of showing off borrowed devotion or charity, one must live with genuine righteousness, recognizing that we are caretakers, not owners, in this world.

ਪਂਡੁਵਲਨ ਬੁਟ੍ਟੇ ਬਰਗ ਪ੍ਰਪਂਚਮੁ
ਪਂਡੁਵਲਨ ਬੁਟ੍ਟੇ ਪਰਮੁ ਨਿਹਮੁ
ਪਂਡੁ ਮੇਲੇਰੁਇਂਗੇ ਬ੍ਰਹ੍ਲਾਦੁਡਿਲਲੋਨ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 16 ॥

Meaning:
Just as a tree or plant is valued for the fruit it produces, in the same way, the world gains meaning through the fruits of one’s actions and inner realization. Even the highest truth (parama nijaṁ) is understood only through the fruit of deep spiritual experience. Vemana points to Prahlāda, who was born in a demon family but became a great devotee of the Lord—showing that it’s not one’s birth or background that matters, but the inner fruit of devotion and truth. True greatness lies in what one becomes, not where one comes from.

Commentary:
In daily life, this teaches that what truly defines us is not our background, appearance, or status, but our inner character, actions, and values. It encourages us to focus on cultivating goodness within, because ultimately, the fruit we produce is what gives our life meaning and worth.

ਤਪਮੁਵੇਲ? ਯਰਯ ਧਾਤ੍ਰਿਜਨੁਲਕੇਲ੍ਲ
ਨੋਨਰ ਸ਼ਿਵੁਨਿ ਜੂਡ ਨੁਪਮ ਗਲਦੁ
ਮਨਸੁ ਚਦਰਨੀਕ ਮਹਿਲੋਨ ਜੂਡਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 17 ॥

Meaning:
What is the use of all austerity and penance (tapamu) if one cannot even treat women (dhatri janulu)—who are also creations of God—with respect and equality? If a person’s heart is not pure and they look at women with a crooked or impure mind, then even seeing Lord Śiva cannot bring any true spiritual merit.

Commentary:
Vemana says, true inner discipline lies in having a clean and respectful mind, especially toward women. Without that, no amount of spiritual practice has any real value.

ਤਨਗੁਣਮੁ ਤਨਕੁ ਨੁਂਡਗ
ਨੇਨਯਂਗਾ ਨੋਰੁਨਿ ਗੁਣਮੁ ਨੇਂਚੁਨੁ ਮਦਿਲੋ
ਦਨ ਗੁਣਮੁ ਤੇਲਿਯ ਕਨ੍ਯੁਨਿ
ਬਨਿਗੋਨਿ ਦੂਸ਼ਿਂਚੁਵਾਡੁ ਵ੍ਯਰ੍ਥੁਡੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 18 ॥

Meaning:
When a person lacks good qualities in themselves, but still praises others insincerely, their words are empty and superficial. Such a person may speak sweetly about someone else’s virtues, but in their mind they carry jealousy or judgment. And when they don’t truly understand the goodness in another, especially a virtuous girl (kanyuni), and still go on to blame or criticize her unjustly, that person is truly worthless, says Vemana.

Commentary:
In essence, Vemana warns against hypocrisy and false praise. If one doesn’t have goodness within, and cannot genuinely recognize or respect it in others, their criticism has no value. True virtue comes from sincerity both in thought and action.

ਜਾਲਿਨੋਂਦਰਾਦੁ ਜਵਦਾਟਿ ਕਨਰਾਦੁ
ਅਦਿ ਮੂਲਮੈਨ ਆਤ੍ਮਮਰੂਗੁ
ਪੋਰਿਚੇਰਿ ਪੋਂਦਿ ਪੂਰ੍ਣਮੁ ਨਂਦੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 19 ॥

Meaning:
Just as you cannot tie water in a net, or see your reflection in muddy water, in the same way, the true Self (ātma) cannot be known through restless or impure means. The root cause of not realizing the Self is a disturbed, unclear mind. Only when the mind becomes calm, pure, and inwardly collected—like clear water reflecting the sky—can one experience the complete and blissful Self (poornamu naMduraa).

Commentary:
Vemana reminds us that spiritual realization is not possible through outward struggle or agitation; it arises only in a mind that is still, pure, and focused, just like still water reveals its depths.

ਜਾਤਿ, ਮਤਮੁ ਵਿਡਿਚਿ ਚਨਿ ਯੋਗਿਕਾਮੇਲੁ
ਜਾਤਿਤੋ ਨੇਯੁਨ੍ਨ ਨੀਤਿਵਲਦੇ
ਮਤਮੁਬਟ੍ਟਿ ਜਾਤਿ ਮਾਨਕੁਂਟ ਕੋਰੁਅਂਤ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 20 ॥

Meaning:
True yogic bliss can only be attained when a person completely lets go of caste and religious divisions. If someone still holds on to caste pride or uses religion to justify social hierarchies, their so-called righteousness is false and self-serving. Vemana reminds us that real spirituality goes beyond man-made labels like jāti (caste) and matamu (religion). As long as one clings to these divisions, they cannot reach true inner peace or liberation. Only by seeing all as equal and shedding ego can one truly walk the spiritual path.

Commentary:
It reminds us that true spirituality is inclusive, rooted in compassion and oneness, not in separation. By letting go of ego tied to caste or creed, we open ourselves to inner peace, harmony, and genuine spiritual growth.

ਨੀਵਨਿਨਨੁ ਨੇਨਨਿਨਨੁ
ਭਾਵਮ੍ਮੁਨ ਨੇਰੂਕਯੋਕ੍ਕ ਪਦ੍ਧਤਿਯਗੁਨਾ
ਭਾਵਂਬੁ ਦੇਲਿਸਿ ਮਦਿਨਿ
ਰ੍ਭਾਵਮੁਗਾ ਨਿਨ੍ਨੁ ਗਨੁਟ ਪਰਮਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 21 ॥

Meaning:
The idea of “you are you” and “I am I” comes only from the way our mind is conditioned to think—it’s just a habit of separation. But when we deeply understand the true essence behind these thoughts, we realize that there is no real difference between self and others. The division is false, created by thought. Once this is seen clearly, the sense of separation fades, and one perceives only the Supreme Oneness.

Commentary:
Vemana teaches that true realization lies in seeing beyond duality, where only the one Self exists.

ਨੀਲ਼੍ਲ ਮੁਨੁਗੁਨੇਲ? ਨਿਧੁਲ ਮੇਟ੍ਟਗਨੇਲ
ਮੋਨਸਿ ਵੇਲ੍ਪੁਲਕੁਨੁ ਮ੍ਰੋਕ੍ਕਨੇਲ
ਕਪਟ ਕਲ੍ਮਸ਼ਮੁਲੁ ਕਡੁਪੁਲੋ ਨੁਂਡਗਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 22 ॥

Meaning:
This verse questions the sincerity of outward devotion when the inner self is still impure. Vemana asks—how can someone dive into water and stay dry, or walk over treasure and not feel its weight? Likewise, how can a person truly bow in devotion when the mind is full of desires, deceit, and impurities? He reminds us that real spirituality cannot arise from a heart filled with hypocrisy or ego. Without inner purity and honesty, all external worship or rituals are meaningless. True devotion begins with cleansing the heart.

Commentary:
This means that outer acts of worship or respect are meaningless without inner sincerity. To live spiritually and truthfully, one must first cleanse the mind and heart, letting go of hypocrisy and cultivating genuine humility and purity within.

ਪਂਚ ਮੁਖਮੁਲਂਦੁ ਬਂਚਾਕ੍ਸ਼ਰਿ ਜਨਿਂਚੇ
ਪਂਚ ਵਰ੍ਣਮੁਲਨੁ ਪ੍ਰਬਲੇ ਜਗਮੁ
ਪਂਚਮੁਖੁਨਿ ਮੀਰੁ ਪ੍ਰਸ੍ਤੁਤਿ ਚੇਯੁਂਡੀ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 23 ॥

Meaning:
From the five-faced Lord (pañcha-mukha)—a form of Śiva—arose the sacred pañchākṣari mantra ("Namah Śivāya"), and from that emerged the five elements or colors (pañcha varṇamulu) that make up the entire world. This means the whole universe is born from and sustained by that divine source. Yet people often try to go beyond or ignore that supreme reality, getting lost in superficial displays or ego.

Commentary:
Vemana reminds us that everything originates from the Divine, especially from the powerful mantra and form of the five-faced Lord, and to honor that source is to align with truth. Trying to go beyond it, or forgetting it in pride or performance, is a loss of spiritual direction.

ਨੇਯਿ ਵੇਨ੍ਨ ਕਾਚਿ ਨੀਡਨੇ ਯੁਂਚਿਨ
ਬੇਰਿ ਗਟ੍ਟਿਪਡੁਨੁ ਪੇਰੁਗੁਰੀਤਿ
ਪੋਰਿਪੋਰਿ ਮਦਿਨਿ ਪੋਨੀਕ ਪਟ੍ਟੁਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 24 ॥

Meaning:
When ghee and butter are melted together and kept in the same container, after a while they separate naturally—one rises, the other settles. Similarly, even if people live closely and mix outwardly, their true nature (guṇa) will eventually reveal itself. Just as milk and water separate when boiled, a person’s real qualities cannot stay hidden forever.

Commentary:
Vemana teaches that no matter how much someone pretends or blends in, with time, their inner truth will emerge. So it’s important not to be deceived by appearances—true character always reveals itself, especially under pressure.

ਮਂਟਿਕੁਂਡਵਂਟਿ ਮਾਯ ਸ਼ਰੀਰਂਬੁ
ਚਚ੍ਚੁਨੇਨ੍ਨਡੈਨ, ਚਾਵਦਾਤ੍ਮ
ਘਟਮੁਲੇਨ੍ਨਿਯੈਨ ਗਗਨਮੋਕ੍ਕਟੇਗਦਾ,
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 25 ॥

Meaning:
The human body is like a clay pot placed over a flame—fragile and temporary. It may perish at any moment. But the Self (ātma) does not die; it is eternal. Just as space (gaganaṁ) remains the same, no matter how many pots are broken, the spirit remains unchanged, even as bodies come and go. Vemana highlights the difference between the perishable body and the imperishable soul.

Commentary:
This verse teaches us to not overly identify with the body, which is bound to decay, but instead to recognize and live from the awareness of the eternal Self within. In daily life, this helps reduce fear of death, ego, and attachment to physical appearance or material status. It encourages living with spiritual awareness, humility, and focus on what truly lasts—our inner nature, not outer form. Such understanding brings peace, clarity, and detachment amidst the changing experiences of life.

ਮਂਟ ਲੋਹਮਂਦੁ ਮ੍ਰਾਕੁਲ ਸ਼ਿਲਲਂਦੁ
ਪਟਮੁਲਂਦੁ ਗੋਡਪ੍ਰਤਿਮਲਂਦੁ
ਤਨ੍ਨੁਦੇਲਿਯੁ ਕੋਰੁਅਕੁਦਗੁਲਦਾ ਪਰਮਾਤ੍ਮ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 26 ॥

Meaning:
People search for the Supreme Being (Paramātma) in fire altars, metallic idols, dark caves, stone statues, and painted images on walls, thinking divinity exists only there. But Vemana questions—can one truly find the Paramātma in such external forms without knowing the Divine within oneself? The verse suggests that God is not limited to lifeless objects or external symbols, but is to be realized through inner understanding.

Commentary:
Rather than getting caught up in ritualistic worship or symbolic representations, focus should be on inner discovery and self-realization. True devotion comes not from merely bowing to statues, but from purifying the mind and heart. By turning inward, reflecting on one’s own nature, and living with sincerity, compassion, and awareness, one begins to recognize the divine presence within all beings, including oneself. This shift from outer form to inner essence is the path to real spiritual growth.

ਨਿਮਿਸ਼ਮੈਨਨੁ ਮਦਿ ਨਿਲ੍ਚਿ ਨਿਰ੍ਮਲਮੁਗ
ਲਿਂਗ ਜੀਵਾਵੇਸ਼ੁਲਨੁ ਗਾਂਚਿ ਭਂਗਪਡਕ
ਪੂਜ ਮਦਿਯਂਦੁ ਜੇਰੁਟ ਪੂਰ੍ਣਪਦਵਿ
ਪਰਮੁ ਗੋਰਿਨ ਨਿਦਿਚੇਯ ਬਾਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 27 ॥

Meaning:
Even if just for a moment (nimiShaṁ), if the mind becomes still and pure, and the distinction between the individual self (jīva) and the supreme (liṅga or Śiva) dissolves, that moment becomes a true act of worship. Without disturbance or distraction, when such unity is experienced, the highest spiritual state (pūrṇa padavi) is attained. Vemana emphasizes that the essence of worship lies in inner stillness and realization, not in external rituals alone.

Commentary:
True spiritual progress begins when the mind becomes calm and free from restlessness. Even a single moment of deep inner silence, where ego dissolves and oneness is felt, has more value than hours of distracted ritual. Cultivating such stillness through regular reflection, meditation, or mindful action helps bridge the gap between the personal and the divine. When thoughts quieten and clarity shines, the sacred naturally enters our life—not through outer forms, but through inner realization.

ਧੂਮਾਦੁਲ ਨਾਵ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਤਮੈ
ਵ੍ਯੋਮਂਬੁਨਕੇਗਨਿ ਕਲਿਯੁ ਨੁਪਮੁਲੁ ਤਨਲੋ
ਸ਼੍ਰੀਮਿਂਚੁ ਸ਼ਿਵੁਨਿ ਜੇਰੁਨੁ
ਗਾਮਾਦੁਲ ਗਲਿਯਡਤਡੁ ਘਨਮੁਗ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 28 ॥

Meaning:
Just as clouds and smoke may temporarily cover the vast sky, but cannot truly stain or affect it, the Supreme Lord Śiva, who is pure and ever-present, remains untouched by worldly impurities. Though unseen by ordinary eyes due to illusion or ignorance, He shines within all beings, waiting to be realized. Vemana explains that the divine is not absent; it is simply hidden by the clouds of ego, desire, and ignorance.

Commentary:
Temporary distractions, emotional turbulence, or ignorance may cloud awareness, but the divine presence within remains untouched and constant. Rather than getting overwhelmed by external confusion or inner negativity, it helps to remember that behind it all lies unchanging clarity. By cultivating self-awareness, patience, and removing the layers of illusion through practice and understanding, the divine within can shine forth clearly, just like the sky becomes visible once the clouds pass.

ਪਗਲੁਡੁਗ ਨਾਸਲੁਡੁਗੁਨੁ
ਵਗਪੁਡੁਗਂ ਗੋਰ੍ਕੇਲੁਡੁਗੁ ਵਡਿ ਜਨ੍ਮਂਬੁਲ੍
ਤਗੁਲੁਡੁਗੁ ਭੋਗਮੁਡਿਗਿਨ
ਤ੍ਰਿਗੁਣਂਬੁਨੁ ਨਡੁਗ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ ਤੇਰੁਵਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 29 ॥

Meaning:
Just as ਪਗਲੁ (day) and ਰ੍āਤ੍ਰਿ (night) alternate without pause, and ਜਨ੍ਮਂਬੁਲ੍ (births) come and go through karmic cycles, people get caught in the loop of ਭ੍ōਗਮੁ (worldly pleasures) and forget their true nature. All this is driven by the play of the ਤ੍ਰਿਗੁṇਅਂਬੁ—sattva, rajas, and tamas. Vemana says that only when one walks beyond these three guṇas can one reach ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ, the path to liberation.

Commentary:
Everything we experience—pleasure, pain, birth, status—keeps shifting like day and night, making it unwise to cling to any of it. The more we chase enjoyment or get stuck in restlessness and ignorance, the more we stay trapped in cycles of desire and sorrow. Real peace comes when one observes these tendencies without getting pulled by them, choosing balance and self-awareness. Stepping beyond the influence of the three qualities leads to inner freedom and clarity, which is the true path to liberation.

ਪਾਲ ਨੀਟਿ ਕਲਤ ਪਰਮਹਂਸ ਮੇਰੂਗੁਨੁ
ਨੀਰੁ ਪਾਲੁ ਨੇਟ੍ਲੁ ਨੇਰ੍ਚੁਨੇਮਲਿ
ਲਜ੍ਞੁਡੈਨ ਹੀਨੁਡਲ ਸ਼ਿਵੁ ਨੇਰੂਗੁਨਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 30 ॥

Meaning:
When ਪ੍āਲੁ (milk) and ਨ੍īṭਇ (water) are mixed together, a ਪਰਮਹṁਸ (realized soul or swan) is said to separate them, drinking only the milk and leaving the water. Similarly, those who are truly wise can distinguish between truth and illusion, essence and superficiality. But if a person is ਲਜ੍ਜੁਦ (shameless) and ਹ੍īਨੁਦ (morally low), how can they ever recognize the divine Śਇਵ or attain spiritual truth?

Commentary:
To perceive truth, one must develop inner purity and discernment, just like a swan that can separate milk from water. Those driven by ego, selfishness, or lack of moral sensitivity remain blind to higher realities. Cultivating humility, sincerity, and a clean heart enables one to recognize what is real and sacred amidst the distractions of daily life. Without these qualities, even the presence of the divine goes unnoticed, just as a shallow person fails to see the deeper meaning in life.

ਪੁਟ੍ਟੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਲੇਦੇ ਪੁਡਮਿਨਿ ਜਨੁਲੇਲ੍ਲ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਲੇਦੇ ਪੂਰ੍ਵੁਲੇਵਰੁ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਗਿਟ੍ਟੁਟੇਲ੍ਲ ਵਟ੍ਟਿ ਭ੍ਰਾਂਤੁਲੁ ਸੁਮੀ,
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 31 ॥

Meaning:
There is truly no such thing as being ਪੁṭṭਉ (born) or not born, because all people on this earth are caught in the illusion of beginnings and endings. No one has clearly seen who came before or where exactly anyone originates from. All ideas of ਪੁṭṭਇ ਗਿṭṭਉ (birth and afterlife) are shaped by belief and confusion, not by direct understanding. Vemana calls these ਵṭṭਇ ਭ੍ਰ੍āਂਤੁਲੁ—mere illusions or cycles of misunderstanding.

Commentary:
Many get entangled in questions of where they came from or what happens after death, often leading to fear, pride, or rigid beliefs. Instead of wasting energy on unprovable speculations, focus should be on living fully and wisely in the present moment. Recognizing that birth and death are part of a mysterious cycle we don’t fully grasp can lead to greater humility, compassion, and a deeper urge to seek inner clarity rather than external answers. Letting go of obsession with origin or end helps us live more peacefully and purposefully.

ਪਰੁਲ ਵਿਤ੍ਤਮਂਦੁ ਭ੍ਰਾਂਤਿ ਵਾਸਿਨਯਟ੍ਟਿ
ਪੁਰੁਸ਼ੁਡਵਨਿਲੋਨ ਪੁਣ੍ਯਮੂਰ੍ਤਿ
ਪਰੁਲ ਵਿਤ੍ਤਮਰਯ ਪਾਪਸਂਚਿਤਮਗੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 32 ॥

Meaning:
A person who lives with pride or enjoyment based on ਪਰੁਲ ਵਿਤ੍ਤਮੁ (other people’s wealth) is trapped in deep illusion (ਭ੍ਰ੍āਂਤਿ), even if he appears outwardly virtuous. Though such a person may be seen as a ਪੁṇਯ ਮ੍ūਰ੍ਤਿ (embodiment of merit), using or misusing someone else's property or earnings unknowingly gathers ਪ੍āਪ ਸñਚਿਤਮਗੁ (a store of sin). Vemana warns that true purity cannot come from living on what does not rightfully belong to you.

Commentary:
Taking pride or comfort in resources that are not honestly earned—whether wealth, credit, or status—leads to inner imbalance and unseen consequences. Even if society admires such a person, their actions carry hidden debt. Living with integrity means respecting what is yours and not exploiting what belongs to others. Genuine merit comes from honesty, self-effort, and humility, not from living off others while appearing righteous.

ਪਰਧਨਂਬੁਲਕੁਨੁ ਪ੍ਰਾਣਮੁਲਿਚ੍ਚੁਨੁ
ਸਤ੍ਯਮਂਤਲੇਕ ਜਾਰਡਗੁਨੁ
ਦ੍ਵਿਜੁਲਮਂਚੁ ਨਿਂਤ੍ਰੁਤੇਜਮਿਂਚੁਕਲੇਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 33 ॥

Meaning:
A person who gives up their ਪ੍ਰ੍āṇਅਮੁ (life) for the sake of ਪਰਧਨਂਬੁ (others’ wealth), who engages in false speech instead of truth, and who indulges in immoral relationships like ਜ੍āਰ ਦਗੁਨੁ (adultery), can never gain the radiant purity associated with noble or learned souls (ਦ੍ਵਿਜੁਲਮਂਚੁ ਨਿṁਤ੍ਰੁ ਤ੍ēਜ). Vemana warns that without moral discipline, one cannot attain true inner strength or dignity.

Commentary:
Chasing after what doesn’t belong to us—whether it’s wealth, relationships, or power—weakens both character and peace of mind. When truth is abandoned and morality is compromised, even the most capable person loses their inner brilliance and respect. Strength and honor come from living with honesty, restraint, and clear values. Upholding truth and avoiding selfish temptation builds lasting dignity that cannot be shaken by outward success or failure.

ਨੋਰੁ ਪਲਕਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਨੁਡਿ ਵ੍ਰਾਯਗਰਾਦੁ
ਵ੍ਰਾਤਕਨ੍ਨ ਸਾਕ੍ਸ਼ਿ ਵਲਵਦਨ੍ਨ
ਪਰਗਲੇਨਿ ਵ੍ਰਾਤ ਭਂਗ ਪਾਟੁਂਦੇਚ੍ਚੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 34 ॥

Meaning:
A person may speak eloquently or even write about moral vows, but that doesn’t make them truly virtuous. What matters is the ਵ੍ਰ੍āਤ (vow or discipline) they actually live by, and the ਸ੍āਕ੍ṣਇ (inner witness) that knows the truth of their conduct. If someone takes a vow but breaks it due to inability or weakness, their failure becomes visible, and the true strength of their character is revealed. Vemana points out that living truthfully is greater than just speaking or writing about it.

Commentary:
Words and appearances can be deceiving if not backed by action. Integrity means living by one’s principles even when it’s difficult, not just declaring them. A person’s true worth is seen in whether they uphold their values when challenged. Holding to one’s word and discipline earns trust and respect, while breaking vows out of convenience shows lack of inner strength. Let actions speak louder than words, and let values guide behavior, not just conversation.

ਨਿਜਮਾਕਲ੍ਲ ਰੇਂਡੁ ਨੀਲਕਂਠੁਡੇਰੂਂਗੁ
ਨਿਜਮੁਲਾਡਕੁਨ੍ਨ ਨੀਤਿਦਪ੍ਪੁ
ਨਿਜਮੁਲਾਡੁਨਪੁਡੁ ਨੀ ਰੂਪਮਨਵਚ੍ਚੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 35 ॥

Meaning:
Even two āਕਲ੍ਲੁ (fraudsters or liars) can skillfully pretend to speak like ਨ੍īਲਕṇṭਹੁਲੁ (the blue-throated Śiva, a symbol of truth and divinity), making their lies sound like truth. When people speak falsehood with practiced style, it becomes hard to detect their ਨ੍īਤਿ ਦਪ੍ਪੁ (flaws in moral conduct). However, when a person speaks genuine truth with sincerity, their inner nature—their real form or essence—shines through. Vemana reminds us that truth has a natural brilliance which cannot be imitated by falsehood for long.

Commentary:
Not everyone who speaks smoothly or uses spiritual language is honest; deception can often wear the mask of wisdom. It’s easy to be misled by appearance or polished speech. What truly reveals a person's worth is not how cleverly they speak, but whether their words match their actions and character. Speaking truthfully, even if simple or uncomfortable, creates trust and allows one’s true nature to be known and respected. Let truth, not style, define communication and character.

ਦਸ਼ਗਲਾਰਿਨੇਲ੍ਲ ਦਮ ਬਂਧੁਵੁ ਲਟਂਡ੍ਰੁ
ਦਸ਼ਯਲੇਮਿ ਨੇਂਤ੍ਰੁ ਤਕ੍ਕੁਵਗਨੁ
ਦਸ਼ਯਨ ਗਮ ਧਨ ਦਸ਼ਮੋਕ੍ਕਟੇ ਦਸ਼
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 36 ॥

Meaning:
A person may have ਦśਅਗḷāਰੁ (ten types of relatives), ਦਮ ਬṁਧੁਵੁ (close family), or ਲṭਅṁḍਰੁ (powerful protectors), but when the time comes, none of them can lessen even one part of the destined ਦśਅਯੁ (fate or suffering). Whether one has wealth, influence, or strength, when the appointed ਦśਅ (final moment or fate) arrives, all stand helpless. Vemana emphasizes that fate is inevitable, and nothing can change its course when it comes due.

Commentary:
Relying solely on family, wealth, or status gives a false sense of control. No matter how strong our support system is, there are moments in life—especially in suffering or death—where no one can intervene. Recognizing this helps develop humility, reduce attachment, and prepare the mind to face life with strength and balance. Instead of clinging to what is outside, focus should shift toward inner readiness and living with awareness that nothing external can shield us from our destined path.

ਤਾਮਸਿਂਚਿ ਚੇਯਦਗ ਦੇਟ੍ਟਿ ਕਾਰ੍ਯਂਬੁ
ਵੇਗਿਰਿਂਪ ਨਦਿਯੁ ਵਿਸ਼ਮਗੁਨੁ
ਪਚ੍ਚਿਕਾਯਦੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਪਡਵੇਯ ਫਲਮੌਨੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 37 ॥

Meaning:
When a task is done with ਤ੍āਮਸਮ੍ (laziness or dullness), without care or attention, even the most important ਕਾਰ੍ਯṁਬੁ (work) becomes distorted and harmful. Just as a river flowing too fast becomes dangerous, rushing through tasks without patience or clarity leads to poor results. Trying to eat a raw bitter gourd without properly cooking it will only bring bitterness. Vemana uses these comparisons to show that actions done without the right mindset or process lead to failure or unpleasant outcomes.

Commentary:
Approaching important duties with a restless or careless attitude results in mistakes, waste, or regret. Rushing without preparation or being lazy when diligence is needed both spoil the outcome. Success requires clarity, patience, and right effort. Just like a bitter vegetable must be cooked to be enjoyed, work must be done with focus and proper timing. Cultivating mindful action and avoiding extremes of haste or sloth leads to better results and a more balanced life.

ਤਲ੍ਲਿਬਿਡ੍ਡਲਕੁਨੁ ਤਗਵੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿਂਚੇਡਿ
ਧਨਮੁ ਸੁਖਮੁ ਗੂਰ੍ਚੁਨਨਿ ਗਡਿਂਤ੍ਰੁ
ਕਾਨਿ ਯੇਲ੍ਲਯੇਡਲ ਘਨ ਦੁਃਖਨ੍​ਦਮਦਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 38 ॥

Meaning:
When ਧਨਮੁ (wealth) and ਸੁਖਮੁ (pleasure) are the only goals, people often divide even between ਤਲ੍ਲਿ-ਬਿḍḍਅਲੁ (mother and child), destroying natural love and closeness. Such attachment to material gain makes them lose their sense of connection and values. Though they think they are securing happiness, ਗḍਇṁਤ੍ਰੁ (fate) brings them into situations where ਘṇਅ ਦੁḥਖਮ੍ (intense sorrow) becomes unavoidable. Vemana reminds that prioritizing wealth over relationships leads only to regret.

Commentary:
Chasing wealth or comfort at the cost of human bonds—especially within family—creates inner emptiness and future pain. When love and trust are broken for money, what remains cannot bring lasting peace. True fulfillment lies in nurturing relationships with care, not sacrificing them for temporary gains. Placing values above greed ensures emotional stability, mutual respect, and long-term happiness that no amount of money can buy.

ਤਲ੍ਲਿਦਂਡ੍ਰੁਲੇਨ੍ਨਦਗੁ ਤੋਲਿ ਗੁਰੁਵੁਲੁ
ਪਾਰ੍ਵਤੀਭਵੁ ਲਿਲਬਰਮਗੁਰੁਲੁ
ਕੂਲਿਵਾਂਡ੍ਰ ਜਗਤਿ ਗੁਰੁਲਨ ਦ੍ਰੋਹਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 39 ॥

Meaning:$
No matter how many ਤਲ੍ਲਿ-ਦṁḍਰੁਲੁ (parents) one may have, the first true gurus are always the parents, as they give birth and shape the early life. Even ਫ੍āਰ੍ਵਤ੍ī-ਭ੍ਹਵੁ (Lord Śiva), known as the supreme teacher, joyfully accepts the role of a guru. Vemana warns that showing disrespect or betrayal toward one’s gurus—especially in the world where many serve as teachers—is a serious ਦ੍ਰ੍ōਹਮੁ (wrong or sin).

Commentary:
Respecting those who guide us—be it parents, teachers, or mentors—is fundamental to personal growth and ethical living. Forgetting the debt owed to those who shaped our lives, or dishonoring them through arrogance or ingratitude, damages not only relationships but one’s inner integrity. Humility, reverence, and loyalty toward genuine guides keep us grounded, wise, and open to learning. Honoring the role of gurus ensures continued progress in knowledge, values, and self-awareness.

ਤਾਮਸਿਂਚਿ ਚੇਯਦਗ ਦੇਟ੍ਟਿ ਕਾਰ੍ਯਂਬੁ
ਵੇਗਿਰਿਂਪ ਨਦਿਯੁ ਵਿਸ਼ਮਗੁਨੁ
ਪਚ੍ਚਿਕਾਯਦੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਪਡਵੇਯ ਫਲਮੌਨੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 40 ॥

Meaning:
When an important ਕ੍āਰ੍ਯṁਬੁ (task) is done with ਤ੍āਮਸਮ੍ (laziness, carelessness, or dullness), it loses its value and can even become harmful. A fast-flowing river that is not guided properly turns dangerous, just as uncontrolled speed ruins direction. Similarly, eating a ਪਚ੍ਚਿਕ੍āਯ (raw bitter gourd) without cooking it makes it bitter and unpleasant. Vemana uses these examples to show that anything done without right effort, patience, and understanding will not yield good ਫਲਮ੍ (results).

Commentary:
Approaching work or decisions with impatience, negligence, or haste leads to poor outcomes, no matter how important the task is. True success comes from balancing enthusiasm with thoughtfulness. Just as a vegetable must be cooked to become tasty, effort must be refined with care and clarity. Rushing or dragging through responsibilities spoils both the process and the result. Cultivating awareness, discipline, and the right pace ensures that actions become meaningful and fruitful.

ਪੁਟ੍ਟੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਲੇਦੇ ਪੁਡਮਿਨਿ ਜਨੁਲੇਲ੍ਲ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਲੇਦੇ ਪੂਰ੍ਵੁਲੇਵਰੁ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਗਿਟ੍ਟੁਟੇਲ੍ਲ ਵਟ੍ਟਿ ਭ੍ਰਾਂਤੁਲੁ ਸੁਮੀ,
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 41 ॥

Meaning:
There is truly no definite beginning or end to ਪੁṭṭਉ (birth) and ਗਿṭṭਉ (death), as all people on this earth are caught in illusions about their origin. No one clearly knows who their exact ਪ੍ūਰ੍ਵੁਲੁ (ancestors) were or where life truly started. All beliefs about birth, rebirth, and identity are part of ongoing ਵṭṭਇ ਭ੍ਰ੍āਂਤੁਲੁ—cycles of delusion and misunderstanding, shaped more by imagination than certainty.

Commentary:
Fixating on origins, family pride, or rigid beliefs about life and death leads only to confusion and division. Rather than being trapped by inherited identities or imagined beginnings, it is wiser to focus on present actions, clear understanding, and inner growth. Letting go of ego tied to birth or ancestry opens the door to equality, humility, and spiritual clarity. Living fully in the present, without the weight of imagined pasts, brings greater freedom and peace.

ਪੇਟ੍ਟਿਪੋਯਲੇਨਿ ਵਟ੍ਟਿ ਦੇਬੇਲੁ ਭੂਮਿ
ਬੁਟ੍ਟਿਰੇਮਿ ਵਾਰੁ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਰੇਮਿ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਲੋਨਿ ਚੇਦਲੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਦਾ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਦਾ!
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 42 ॥

Meaning:
This vast ਭੂਮਿ (earth) is like an unmeasured ਦ੍ēਬੇਲੁ (weighing scale) that cannot be enclosed or defined. In such an infinite and mysterious world, who truly knows what someone was at birth (ਬੁṭṭਇ) or what they become after death (ਗਿṭṭਉ)? The distinctions people make—based on birth, status, or end—are shallow. Can the ਚੇḍਅਲੁ (faults or sins) within birth be clearly labeled as belonging only to birth or to death?

Commentary:
Social divisions based on birth, labels of status or purity, and judgments about people’s lives are all meaningless in the face of life’s vast mystery. Rather than measuring others by their origin or end, it is wiser to cultivate understanding and compassion. Avoiding arrogance and seeing all as equal in the journey of life allows one to live with fairness, humility, and inner peace. What matters is not where one comes from or goes, but how one lives and acts in the space between.

ਲੋਕਮਂਦੁਬੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਲੋਕਮਂਦੇ ਪੇਰਿਗਿ
ਲੋਕ ਵਿਭਵਮੋਰ੍ਵਲੇਕ ਜਨੁਡੁ
ਲੋਕਮਂਦੁ ਜਨਿਕਿ ਲੋਬਡਿ ਚੇਡਿਪੋਵੁਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 43 ॥

Meaning:
A person is ਬੁṭṭਇ (born) in the ਲ੍ōਕਮਂਦੁ (world), grows up in it, and lives entirely within its framework. Yet, unable to bear the ਲ੍ōਕ ਵਿਭਵਮ੍ (wealth and grandeur of the world) rightly, he becomes greedy and falls into wrongdoing. Driven by ਲ੍ōਭṁ (desire), the same person who is a part of the world ends up harming both himself and others, losing his natural balance.

Commentary:
Human beings, though shaped by society and its offerings, often lose their way when they become consumed by greed. Instead of using worldly opportunities wisely, they crave more, compare constantly, and make unethical choices. The key is to live in the world with awareness, enjoy its gifts with restraint, and not let desire control the mind. Contentment and self-control protect one’s dignity and prevent the downfall caused by uncontrolled ambition.

ਮਦਿ ਗਲਿਗਿਨ ਪੂਜ ਮਦਨਾਰਿ ਮੇਚ੍ਚੁਨੁ
ਮਨਸੁ ਨਿਲ੍ਸਿਨਂਤ ਮਹਿਤੁਡਗੁਨੁ
ਮਨਸੁਲੇਨਿ ਪੂਜ ਮਟ੍ਟਿ ਸਮਾਨਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 44 ॥

Meaning:
A ਪ੍ūਜ (act of worship) performed with heartfelt ਮਦਿ (intention or devotion) pleases even the ਮਦਨ੍āਰਿ (the Divine Mother or consort of Cupid), and yields meaningful results equal to the depth of the ਮਨਸੁ (mind) behind it. But a ritual done without genuine feeling or presence of mind is no better than offering a handful of mud—it carries no value. Vemana highlights that it is not the outer act, but the inner sincerity that makes worship meaningful.

Commentary:
Mechanical rituals or duties done without mindfulness and heart are hollow, no matter how grand they appear. True value lies in sincerity—whether in prayer, relationships, work, or daily actions. When attention and feeling are fully present, even the smallest act becomes sacred and impactful. Cultivating mindful presence and genuine intent brings depth and purpose to everything, while action without awareness becomes empty and ineffective.

ਤਾਮੁਨੁ ਜਨੁਲੇਮਨੁ ਕੋਨ
ਬੂਨੁਦੁਰੋ ਦਾਨਿ ਸਰਸਿ ਪੋਂਦਿਨ ਜਡਨੀ,
ਰਾਨਿ ਪਧਂਬੁਨ ਨਡਿਚਿਨ
ਦਾਨਨੇ ਧਰ੍ਮਾਤ੍ਮੁਡਂਡ੍ਰੁ ਤਨ੍ਨਿਟ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 45 ॥

Meaning:
When a person gives ਦ੍āਨਮੁ (charity), people may praise them, but often the one receiving it is ਬੂਨੁਦੁ (truly noble), because they give the donor a chance to practice goodness. If someone receives a gift with grace, and the donor behaves arrogantly or without humility, the true dignity lies with the receiver, not the giver. Even if the donor walks on a ਰ੍āṇਇ ਪਧਮ੍ (royal path), it is the receiver who is truly ਧਰ੍ਮਾਤ੍ਮੁਦੁ (righteous) when they maintain dignity and humility.

Commentary:
Charity should be offered with humility, not with pride or a sense of superiority. The one who accepts it gives an opportunity for the giver to practice virtue. Respecting those we help, recognizing their grace, and giving without ego brings true merit. Looking down on beneficiaries only empties the value of the act. Practicing kindness with respect, and seeing giving as mutual upliftment, cultivates compassion, balance, and true dharma.

ਮਦਮੁ ਵਲਨ ਗਲੁਗੁ ਮਾਟਲੁ ਮਰੁਇਪਲ੍ਕਿ
ਮ੍ਰੁਚ੍ਚੁ ਸਦ੍ਦੁਲਨੋਗਿ ਮੋਸਪੁਚ੍ਚਿ
ਕਾਸੁਰਾਬੇਨਗੇਡੁ ਕਸ਼੍ਠੁਂਡੁ ਗੁਰੁਡੌਨੇ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 46 ॥

Meaning:
When someone is filled with ਮਦਮੁ (pride or arrogance), they forget wise words they once knew or spoke, and fall into ignorance. They ignore the warnings of death (ਮ੍ṛਤ੍ਯੁ ਸਦ੍ਦੁਲੁ), get deceived by illusions, and walk blindly into harm. A person who has such ਮ੍ōਸਪੁਚ੍ਚਿ (deluded behavior) and becomes a ਕṣṭਹੁḍਉ (fool) due to pride—can such a one truly be called a ਗੁਰੁਵੁ (wise or respected person)? Vemana questions the worth of wisdom without humility.

Commentary:
Pride clouds judgment, weakens memory of truth, and distances a person from inner growth. No matter how much knowledge one may have, if ego takes over, it leads to downfall and deception. Real wisdom requires humility and awareness of life’s impermanence. Staying grounded, listening to truth with openness, and not letting success or learning inflate the ego keeps one on the right path. True leadership or guidance comes not from pride, but from clarity, compassion, and self-awareness.

ਮਨਸੇ ਮਾਯਾ ਮ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਗਮੌ
ਮਨਨੇਮਿਟਿ ਪੈਕਿਗਾਨੀ ਮਣਿਪੋਨੀਕਾ
ਮਨਸੁਨ ਮਨਸੁਨੁ ਜਂਪਿਨ
ਮਨਂਦੇ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿਗਲਦੁ ਮਹਿਲੋ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 47 ॥

Meaning:
The ਮਨਸੁ (mind) itself is the ਮ੍āਯ੍ā ਮ੍ṛਉਗਮੁ—the illusory deer we endlessly chase. What use is all mental effort if the mind keeps wandering outward and never turns inward? Unless the mind conquers itself, there is no true liberation. Vemana declares that only when one grasps the mind with the mind can one attain ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ (liberation).

Commentary:
The restless mind constantly chases desires, thoughts, and illusions, pulling us away from peace. Trying to control the world without first understanding our own mind leads only to exhaustion. When attention turns inward and the mind observes itself, clarity begins to emerge. Training the mind through self-awareness, meditation, or mindful living allows one to overcome confusion and attachments. Mastery over the mind is the key to freedom, not external achievements.

ਮਂਤ੍ਰਮੋਕਟਿ ਚੇਪ੍ਪਿ ਮਰੁਇ ਦੇਵਤਾਰ੍ਚਨ
ਚੇਸਿ ਤਮਕੁਗਰੁਣਚੇਂਦਿਨਦਨਿ
ਵੇਦਪਠਨ ਚੇਸਿ ਵੇਰ੍ਰੁਲੈ ਪੋਦੁਰੁ,
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 48 ॥

Meaning:
People often chant a ਮਂਤ੍ਰਮੁ ਓਕṭਇ and then go on to worship a different deity (ਮਰੁਇ ਦ੍ēਵਤ), thinking they are gaining spiritual merit for themselves. Others recite the ਵ੍ēਦ ਪṭਹਨ (Vedic hymns) only for show or status, not for genuine understanding or transformation. Vemana criticizes such practices, pointing out that they lead nowhere—those who engage in such misaligned or superficial rituals ultimately do not progress but remain spiritually stuck.

Commentary:
True spiritual practice requires sincerity, consistency, and alignment between thought, word, and action. Using mantras or sacred texts without understanding or with mixed motives only leads to confusion and self-deception. Genuine devotion comes from inner clarity, not external performance. To grow spiritually, one must approach practice with integrity—honoring what is chanted, understanding what is read, and living what is believed. Only then can transformation happen and the path become meaningful.

ਮਠਮੁਲੋਨਿਯੋਗਿ ਮਾਯਲਨ੍ਨਿਯੁਗੋਸਿ
ਘਟਮੁਲੋਨ ਨੁਨ੍ਨ ਘਨੁਨਿਦੇਲਿਸਿ
ਮਾਟ ਮਾਟਕੁਗੁਰੁ ਮਰੁਵਕ ਤੇਲੁਪੁਰਾ,
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 49 ॥

Meaning:
The so-called ਯ੍ōਗਿ in a ਮṭਹਮੁ (monastery) may appear wise but could be deeply caught in ਮ੍āਯਲੁ (illusions). Just like a pot may contain only water, while looking heavy and full from the outside, one must recognize what’s truly within. Vemana questions how such a person—who speaks with impressive words but lacks true experience—can be called a ਗੁਰੁ (teacher). A true guru is one whose words arise from real understanding, not just outward learning or show.

Commentary:
Outward appearances, spiritual titles, or impressive speech do not guarantee true wisdom. Real understanding is recognized not by what someone wears or where they live, but by the depth and alignment of their actions, words, and inner clarity. Before placing trust in someone as a guide, observe whether their life reflects what they teach. True leadership and learning come from those who live with humility, insight, and freedom from illusion—not from those who merely perform the role.

ਤਿਰਿਗਿ ਵਚ੍ਚੁਵੇਲ਼ ਮਰਲਿਪੋਯੇਡਿ ਵੇਲ਼
ਵੇਂਟ ਦੇਰੁ ਧਨਮੁ ਵਂਟਬੋਰੁ
ਤੋਨੇਟਕੁ ਜਨੁਨੋ ਧਨਮੇਂਦੁ ਬੋਵੁਨੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 50 ॥

Meaning:
When the time comes to depart from this world (ਤਿਰਿਗਿ ਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਵ੍ēḷਅ), there is no returning (ਮਰਲਿ ਪ੍ōਯੇਦਿ ਵ੍ēḷਅ). At that moment, no amount of ਧਨਮੁ (wealth) or companions can follow along or offer help. Still, people spend their entire lives chasing wealth, thinking it gives them purpose. Vemana questions the wisdom of such a life, where one forgets mortality and clings to what cannot be taken beyond death.

Commentary:
Running behind wealth without awareness of life’s impermanence leads to regret. Money and possessions have their place, but they cannot accompany us when life ends. What truly matters is how we live, whom we serve, and what values we uphold. Prioritizing inner growth, kindness, and meaningful relationships over blind material pursuit brings lasting fulfillment. Recognizing the limits of wealth helps build a life rooted in balance, purpose, and deeper joy.

ਆਸ਼ਯਨੇਡੁ ਦਾਨਿ ਗੋਸਿਵੇਯਗਾਲੇਕ
ਮੋਹਬੁਦ੍ਦਿ ਵਲਨ ਮੁਨੁਗੁਵਾਰੁ
ਕਾਸ਼ਿਵਾਸੁਲੈਨ ਗਨਬੋਰੁ ਮੋਕ੍ਸ਼ਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 51 ॥

Meaning:
People are driven by endless āśਅਯਮੁ (desire), yet are unable to fully achieve what they long for. Pulled down by ਮ੍ōਹ (attachment) and clouded ਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ (intellect), they sink deeper into worldly struggle. Even those who live in ਖ੍āśਇ ਵ੍āਸ (the sacred city of Kashi, considered a gateway to liberation) may not attain ਮ੍ōਕ੍ṣਅਮੁ (liberation) if they remain bound by inner ignorance and craving. Vemana reminds us that mere physical presence in a holy place or spiritual setting doesn’t guarantee freedom.

Commentary:
Freedom from suffering comes not from where we live, but from how we think and act. Desires and attachments, when left unchecked, cloud the mind and prevent real peace. Even in the most sacred environments, one remains trapped if the heart is full of longing and confusion. True liberation begins with inner clarity, detachment, and self-understanding. Letting go of obsessive desires and cultivating awareness leads to real spiritual progress, regardless of external conditions.

ਚਿਤ੍ਤਮਨੇਡਿ ਵੇਰੇ ਸ਼ਿਥਿਲਮੈਨਪ੍ਪੁਡੇ
ਪ੍ਰਕ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਤਿ ਯਨੇਡਿ ਚੇਟ੍ਟੁ ਪਡੁਨੁ ਪਿਦਪ
ਗੋਰ੍ਕੁਲਨੇਡਿ ਪੇਦ੍ਦਕੋਮ੍ਮਲੇਂਡੁਨੁ ਗਦਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 52 ॥

Meaning:
When the ਚਿਤ੍ਤਮੁ (mind or inner will) becomes weak, even the natural world—ਪ੍ਰਕ੍ṛਤਿ—which once stood firm like a tree, begins to collapse. A strong tree falls only when its roots loosen, just as a grand ਗ੍ōਰ੍ਕੁਲੁ (mansion or tall structure) collapses when its ਪੇਦ੍ਦਕੋਮ੍ਮਲੁ (main beams or supports) weaken. Vemana compares the fall of great things in nature and life to the collapse of a person's stability when their mind loses strength and clarity.

Commentary:
Mental strength is the foundation of resilience, purpose, and balanced living. When the mind becomes scattered, restless, or directionless, everything else—health, relationships, values—starts to weaken, no matter how strong they once seemed. Maintaining a clear, focused, and steady mind is essential for sustaining inner and outer stability. Just like a tree or building needs strong roots and support, life needs a well-grounded mind to stand tall through challenges. Nurturing the mind through reflection, discipline, and calmness strengthens the entire life structure.

ਭੋਗਂਬੁਲ ਕਾਸ਼ਿਂਪਕ
ਰਾਗਦ੍ਵੇਸ਼ਂਬੁ ਰਂਗੁਡਦਮਲੋ
ਵੇਗਮੇ ਮੋਕ੍ਸ਼ ਪਦਂਬੁਨੁ
ਰਾਗਨੁ ਨਾਤਂਡੁ ਯੋਗਿਰਾਯੁਡੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 53 ॥

Meaning:
One who does not get lost in ਭ੍ōਗਂਬੁਲਨੁ (worldly pleasures), and who transcends the play of ਰ੍āਗ-ਦ੍ਵ੍ēṣਅṁਬੁ (attachment and hatred), quickly reaches the state of ਮ੍ōਕ੍ṣਅ ਪਦਮੁ (liberation). Vemana says the true ਯ੍ōਗਿ is one who does not entertain ਰ੍āਗṁ (craving) and lives without clinging to either desire or aversion.

Commentary:
Freedom and inner peace come when one rises above the pull of desires and dislikes. Pleasure, when chased endlessly, traps the mind; hatred binds just as strongly. Letting go of both allows the mind to become still, clear, and free. Real spiritual growth happens not by denying the world, but by engaging with it without obsession or repulsion. Cultivating balance, detachment, and equanimity in thought and action opens the path to lasting fulfillment.

ਚਨੁਵਾਰੇਲ੍ਲਨੁ ਜਨੁਲਂ
ਜਨਿਪੋਯਿਨ ਵਾਰਿ ਪੁਣ੍ਯ ਸਤ੍ਕਥਲੇਲ੍ਲਨ੍
ਵਿਨਵਲੇ ਗਨਵਲੇ ਮਨਵਲੇ
ਨਨਿ ਮਸ਼ੁਲਕੁ ਦੇਲੁਸਗੂਡ ਦਂਤ੍ਯਮੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 54 ॥

Meaning:
Countless ਚਨੁਵ੍āਰੇਲੁ (noble souls) have taken birth in this world and lived lives of ਪੁṇਯ (merit) and ਸਤ੍ਕਥਲੁ (virtuous deeds and stories). But unless one makes the effort to ਵਿਨਵਲੇ (listen), ਗਨਵਲੇ (reflect), and ਮਨਵਲੇ (absorb and live by them), their greatness remains unknown. Vemana says even the most precious knowledge is useless to one who is ਮśਉਲੁ (ignorant or unmindful), as it remains out of reach despite being available.

Commentary:
Wisdom and inspiration are all around—through the lives, words, and actions of noble people past and present. But without genuine interest, reflection, and application, such knowledge makes no impact. Just hearing about goodness is not enough; it must be received with attention, understood with the mind, and lived through action. Cultivating a mindset that seeks truth, values learning, and applies it in daily conduct transforms awareness into wisdom and life into a meaningful journey.

ਆਸ਼ਯਨੇਡਿ ਤ੍ਰਾਲ਼੍ਲ਼ ਨਖਿਲ ਜਨਂਬੁਲੁ
ਕਟ੍ਟੁਪਡੁਚੁ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿਗਾਨਰੈਰਿ
ਜ੍ਞਾਨਖਡ੍ਗਮੁਨਨੁ ਖਂਡਿਂਪ ਰਾਦੋਕੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 55 ॥

Meaning:
All people are bound and pulled by āśਅਯਮੁ (desire), like being tied with strong ਤ੍ਰ੍āਲ੍ਲ (ropes). Because of this bondage, they are unable to reach ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ (liberation), no matter how close it may seem. Vemana asks—can’t one take up the ਜ੍ñāਨ ਖḍਗਮੁ (sword of knowledge) and cut through these bindings? The path to freedom is available, yet people remain entangled in craving.

Commentary:
Desire is the root cause of restlessness, suffering, and bondage. It disguises itself as ambition, pleasure, or even duty, silently tying the mind in knots. Only the sharp clarity of true knowledge—of the Self, impermanence, and detachment—can cut through these layers. Recognizing the grip of desire and cultivating insight through reflection and awareness is the key to inner freedom. Rather than being slaves to wants, becoming masters of the mind leads to peace, strength, and liberation.

ਅਤਿਥਿ ਰਾਕ ਚੂਚਿ ਯਦਲਿਂਚਿ ਪਡਵੈਚਿ
ਕਠਿਨ ਚਿਤੁਲਗੁਚੁ ਗਾਨਲੇਰੁ
ਕਰ੍ਮਮੁਨਕੁ ਮੁਂਦੁ ਧਰ੍ਮਮੁ ਗਾਨਰੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 56 ॥

Meaning:
When an ਅਤਿਥਿ (guest) arrives, some people hesitate to receive, delay in offering even basic respect, and finally give something only after much reluctance and discomfort. Their ਚਿਤ੍ਤਮੁ (mind) becomes hard and closed. Vemana points out that such people do not understand that ਧਰ੍ਮ (righteous conduct) must come before ਕਰ੍ਮ (mere action). Without the right intention and spirit, even an act of giving loses its virtue.

Commentary:
Hospitality and kindness should come from a genuine heart, not from social pressure or obligation. The value of any action lies in the intention behind it. Offering help grudgingly, or with ego, empties the act of its meaning. Approaching duties with openness, warmth, and humility transforms ordinary acts into true dharma. Practicing heartfelt generosity and honoring others with sincerity builds character and nurtures both human and spiritual connection.

ਤਨੁ ਵਲਚਿਨ ਦਾਵਲਚੁਨੁ ਤਨੁ
ਵਲਵਕ ਯੁਨ੍ਨਨੇਨਡੁ ਤਾਵਲਵ ਡਿਲਨ੍
ਤਨਦੁ ਪਟਾਟੋਪਂਬੁਲੁ ਤਨ
ਮਾਯਲੁ ਪਨਿਕਿਰਾਵੁ ਧਰਲੋਨ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 57 ॥

Meaning:
A person assumes that whatever they desire should happen, and expects even others to act according to their own ਵਲਚਿਨ (wishes). But when things don't go as expected, they claim that the world is not cooperating. In truth, the world doesn’t move according to anyone’s ਤਾਵ (will). Vemana says that all such ਪṭāṭōਪਂਬੁਲੁ (prideful displays) and personal ਮ੍āਯਲੁ (illusions) are useless—they hold no real power or value in this world.

Commentary:
Expecting the world or people to follow one’s desires leads only to frustration and arrogance. The belief that everything should bend to personal will is rooted in ego. True peace arises when one accepts that the world moves on its own rhythm, not by individual command. Letting go of pride and unrealistic control allows one to live with humility, patience, and balance. Adjusting to reality with understanding, rather than forcing it to fit one's mind, leads to wiser, more harmonious living.

ਮਾਟਲਾਡ ਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਮਨਸੁ ਨਿਲ੍ਵਗਲੇਦੁ
ਤੇਲੁਪਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਦਨ੍ਨੁ ਤੇਲਿਯਲੇਦੁ
ਸੁਰਿਯਬਟ੍ਟਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਸ਼ੂਰੁਡੁ ਕਾਲੇਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 58 ॥

Meaning:
A person may know how to ਮ੍āṭਅਲ੍āḍਅ ਵਚ੍ਚੁ (speak well), but lacks a steady ਮਨਸੁ (mind or heart); may be able to ਤੇਲੁਪ ਵਚ੍ਚੁ (teach) something, yet not truly ਤੇਲਿਯਲ੍ēਦੁ (understand) it within. Just as someone may wear royal robes like ਸੁਰਿਯਬṭṭਅ, that alone doesn’t make them a ਸ੍ūਰੁḍਉ (king). Vemana highlights the gap between outer display and inner reality, urging us to recognize true worth beyond surface appearances.

Commentary:
Fluent speech, outer knowledge, or impressive appearance mean little without genuine understanding, inner stability, or true character. It is easy to perform or pretend, but real value lies in what one truly knows, lives, and embodies. Speaking truthfully, understanding deeply, and acting with authenticity make a person trustworthy and wise. Avoid being deceived by appearances—seek and cultivate depth, sincerity, and substance within yourself and in others.

ਤਨਕੇਨਾਡੁ ਸੁਭਿਕ੍ਸ਼ਮੁ
ਤਨਕੇਨਾਡੁਨੁ ਭਗਂਬੁ ਤਨਰਵਯੁਨਂ
ਚੁਨੁ ਤਨ ਦਸ਼ਕੈ ਯੇਲ੍ਲੇਡ
ਮਨਸਂਦੁਨ ਜਿਵੁਕੁਚੁਂਡੁ ਮਹਿਲੋ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 59 ॥

Meaning:
Whatever ਸੁਭਿਕ੍ṣਅਮੁ (prosperity) or ਭਗਂਬੁ (fortune) one experiences comes only when the time is right for them (ਤਨਕ੍ē ਨ੍āḍਉ). Until that destined moment arrives, no matter what efforts are made, it may not materialize. Vemana emphasizes that everything unfolds according to one’s own ਦśਅਕੈ (timing or fate), and it is best to live with awareness and patience in the heart, accepting that all things come in their time.

Commentary:
Forcing outcomes or comparing one’s journey with others only leads to frustration. Each person’s life unfolds at its own pace, and trusting that allows for peace of mind. Effort should be sincere, but without anxiety or greed for immediate results. Cultivating patience and inner acceptance helps reduce mental agitation and builds quiet confidence. True wisdom lies in doing one’s best while trusting that results will come when the moment is right.

ਏਂਡਿਨ ਮਾ ਨੋਕਟਡਵਿਨਿ
ਮਂਡਿਨ ਨਂਦਗ੍ਨਿ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਯੂਡ੍ਚੁਨੁ ਚੇਟ੍ਲਨ੍
ਦਂਡਿਗਲ ਵਂਸ਼ਮੇਲ੍ਲਨੁ
ਚਂਡਾਲੁਂਡੋਕਡੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਚਦੁਪੁਨੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 60 ॥

Meaning:
A ਨੋਕṭਅ ḍਅਵਿਨਿ (small bitter fruit) might grow even on a tree that once bore the sacred ਨਂਦਗ੍ਨਿ (sacrificial fire). Similarly, even in a respected ਵṁśਅਮੁ (lineage of wise and virtuous people), a single person with ਦṇḍਇ (cruel or wicked) nature can be born. Vemana observes that despite the nobility of one's background, a ਚṇḍāਲੁ (person of fierce, ignorant temperament) can arise, behaving in opposition to the family's values.

Commentary:
Lineage, heritage, or family reputation do not automatically define a person’s character. One’s actions and choices determine their true worth, not the family they are born into. Pride in ancestry is hollow without personal virtue. Cultivating humility, learning, and right conduct matters more than clinging to inherited identity. This awareness encourages self-responsibility and reminds us that every individual must earn their own respect through character, not lineage.

ਨਿਜਮੁ ਤੇਲਿਸਿਯੁਨ੍ਨ ਸੁਜਿਨੁਡਾਨਿਜਮੁਨੇ
ਪਲੁਕਵਲਯੁਗਾਨਿ ਪਰੁਲਕੋਰਕੁ
ਚਾਵਕੂਡ ਦਿਂਕ ਨੋਪਦਵ੍ਯਂ ਪਲ੍ਕ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 61 ॥

Meaning:
Even if a wise and noble person (ਸੁਜਿਨੁḍਉ) clearly knows the ਨਿਜਮੁ (truth), they must speak it only when appropriate and not just to please others (ਪਰੁਲਕੋਰਕੁ). If speaking the truth leads to unnecessary conflict, pain, or harm, it is better to endure silently than to speak just for the sake of it. Vemana says that truth should not be forced if it serves no good, even if one must suffer or sacrifice for withholding it.

Commentary:
Truth is sacred, but its expression requires wisdom and timing. Blunt or ill-timed truth can hurt more than heal. Speaking with compassion, discretion, and purpose ensures that words uplift rather than harm. Sometimes, remaining silent is wiser than speaking what one knows, especially when truth may cause more damage than benefit. Practicing mindful speech, guided by empathy and context, preserves harmony and reflects deeper understanding.

ਤਾਮੁਨੁ ਜਨੁਲੇਮਨੁ ਕੋਨ
ਬੂਨੁਦੁਰੋ ਦਾਨਿ ਸਰਸਿ ਪੋਂਦਿਨ ਜਡਨੀ,
ਰਾਨਿ ਪਧਂਬੁਨ ਨਡਿਚਿਨ
ਦਾਨਨੇ ਧਰ੍ਮਾਤ੍ਮੁਡਂਡ੍ਰੁ ਤਨ੍ਨਿਟ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 62 ॥

Meaning:
When someone gives ਦ੍āਨਮੁ (charity), people often admire the donor, but sometimes the ਬੂਨੁਦੁ (receiver) is the one truly noble, especially if the gift is accepted with dignity and calmness. If the donor shows pride and lacks humility, then even if they walk on a royal path (ਰ੍āਨਿ ਪਧਮੁ), the real ਧਰ੍ਮਾਤ੍ਮੁḍਉ (virtuous person) is the one who maintains grace while receiving. Vemana reminds us that goodness lies not just in giving, but in how both giver and receiver behave.

Commentary:
Giving should be done with humility, not arrogance. A gift offered with pride loses its true value, while a receiver who maintains self-respect and gratitude reflects real strength. Recognizing that charity is meaningful only when done with respect and compassion encourages generous yet humble action. Equally, receiving with dignity without exploitation or entitlement honors the spirit of giving. True virtue lies in mutual respect and the absence of ego in both roles.

ਵਿਨਿਯੁ ਵਿਨਕਯੁਂਡੁ ਕਨਿਯੁ ਗਨਕ ਯੁਂਡੁ
ਤਲਚਿ ਤਲਪਕੁਂਡੁ ਤਾਨੁ ਯੋਗਿ
ਮਨੁਜਵਰੁਲਚੇਤ ਮਣਿਪੂਜ ਗੋਨੁਚੁਂਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 63 ॥

Meaning:
A person may hear but not truly listen (ਵਿਨਿਯੁ ਵਿਨਕਯੁਂਡੁ), or see but not truly perceive (ਕਨਿਯੁ ਗਨਕਯੁਂਡੁ), and may appear to think but lack real reflection (ਤਲਚਿ ਤਲਪਕੁਂਡੁ). Such a person is not a true ਯ੍ōਗਿ, even if they receive admiration or worship from others (ਮṇਇ ਪ੍ūਜ ਗੋਨੁਚੁਂਡੁ). Vemana criticizes shallow behavior that mimics wisdom without genuine awareness.

Commentary:
Appearances of wisdom—like listening quietly, seeing deeply, or thinking silently—are empty if not backed by real attention and understanding. Merely acting wise or calm to gain respect from others leads to self-deception. True learning and spiritual growth come from sincere listening, mindful seeing, and deep reflection. Cultivating genuine awareness instead of imitating it builds character, clarity, and authenticity, which is far more valuable than public praise.

ਵੇਨ੍ਨ ਚੇਤਬਟ੍ਟਿ ਵਿਵਰਂਬੁ ਤੇਲਿਯਕ
ਘ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਤਮੁ ਕੋਰੁਨਟ੍ਟਿ ਯਤਨਿ ਭਂਡਿ
ਤਾਨੁ ਦੈਵਮਯ੍ਯੁ ਦੈਵਂਬੁ ਦਲਚੁਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 64 ॥

Meaning:
One who holds ਵੇਨ੍ਨ (butter) in hand but cannot distinguish or extract the ਘ੍ṛਉਤਮੁ (clarified butter or essence) is like someone who puts in effort with no understanding of the core. Similarly, a person who considers themselves divine but doesn’t truly contemplate or realize the divine (ਦੈਵṁ ਦਲਚੁਨੁ) is deluded. Vemana points out that thinking oneself to be divine without grasping the deeper truth is shallow and misguided.

Commentary:
Knowing the outer form or claiming greatness is not enough; one must grasp the essence through understanding and introspection. Spirituality is not about labels or appearances but about realizing truth through sincere effort. Just as ghee must be carefully extracted from butter, true wisdom and divinity must be uncovered from within through reflection, humility, and clarity. Pretending or assuming spiritual status without depth leads nowhere; what matters is the inner realization, not outer show.

ਰੂਪੁਵਂਕ ਪੇਰੁ ਰੂਢਿਗਾ ਨਿਲੁਚੁਨੁ
ਪੇਰੁਵਂਕ ਕ੍ਰਿਯਲੁ ਪੇਨਗੁਚੁਂਡੁ
ਨਾਸ਼ਮੌਨੁ ਤੁਦਕੁ ਨਾਮਰੂਪ ਕ੍ਰਿਯਲ੍
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 65 ॥

Meaning:
A person's ਰ੍ūਪੁ (appearance) often gives rise to a ਪ੍ēਰੁ (name), and over time, that name becomes firmly established. Based on that name, people begin to form expectations and assign ਕ੍ਰਿਯਲੁ (actions or roles). Vemana points out that as long as one is caught in ਨ੍āਮ-ਰ੍ūਪ-ਕ੍ਰਿਯ—the cycle of name, form, and action—they remain bound and cannot escape ਨ੍āśਅਮੁ (destruction or impermanence).

Commentary:
Identifying too strongly with one’s name, looks, or societal roles leads to attachment and ego, keeping one trapped in illusion. These identities are temporary and ever-changing, and clinging to them causes suffering. Real freedom begins when one sees beyond superficial labels and realizes the changeless self within. Letting go of rigid self-images and roles helps cultivate humility, detachment, and a deeper sense of being, untouched by outer fluctuations.

ਲੋਭਮੋਹਮੁਲਨੁ ਪ੍ਰਾਭਵਮੁਲੁ ਤਪ੍ਪੁ
ਤਲਚਿਨ ਪਨੁਲੇਲ੍ਲ ਤਪ੍ਪਿ ਚਨੁਨੁ
ਤਾਨੋਕਟਿ ਦਲਚਿਨ ਦੈਵਮੋਂਡਗੁਚੁਂਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 66 ॥

Meaning:
When a person is driven by ਲ੍ōਭਮੁ (greed), ਮ੍ōਹਮੁ (attachment), and the influence of ਪ੍ਰ੍āਭਵਮੁਲੁ (ego or social power), even their thoughts and actions go astray, leading ultimately to downfall. Yet, if the mind focuses on just one thing with purity and devotion—especially on the ਦੈਵਮੁ (Divine)—then that very thought can elevate the person to a divine state. Vemana highlights the contrast between being scattered in desires and being centered in truth.

Commentary:
Greed, attachment, and ego cloud judgment, distort behavior, and pull the mind in many directions, causing confusion and suffering. But when the mind is focused, pure, and anchored in a single higher aim—whether truth, purpose, or the divine—it brings clarity, strength, and transformation. Centering the mind on what is essential, and letting go of distractions, leads to inner peace and spiritual growth. A focused, devoted mind is more powerful than a thousand scattered intentions.

ਸ਼ਾਂਤਮੇ ਜਨੁਲਨੁ ਜਯਮੁਨੋਂਦਿਂਚੁਨੁ
ਸ਼ਾਂਤਮੁਨਨੇ ਗੁਰੁਵੁ ਜਾਡ ਤੇਲਿਯੁ
ਸ਼ਾਂਤ ਭਾਵ ਮਹਿਮ ਜਰ੍ਚਿਂਪਲੇਮਯਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 67 ॥

Meaning:
It is śāਂਤਮੁ (calmness or inner peace) that truly conquers people and wins hearts, not aggression or argument. A true ਗੁਰੁਵੁ is known by their peaceful presence, not by loud words or displays. One who lacks this calm nature is still caught in ਜ੍āḍਅ (ignorance or dullness). Vemana reflects on the power and grace of a śāਂਤ ਭ੍āਵ (peaceful state of mind), and wonders why people fail to recognize and cultivate it.

Commentary:
Inner calm has far greater influence than force or noise. A peaceful person brings clarity, strength, and respect without needing to assert power. Cultivating calmness in thought, speech, and action helps resolve conflicts, earn trust, and deepen understanding. When peace becomes one’s natural state, it transforms not only the individual but also those around them. Real strength lies not in domination, but in stillness and gentle presence.

ਵੇਸ਼ਧਾਰਿਨੇਪੁਡੁ ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਸਿਂਪਗਰਾਦੁ
ਵੇਸ਼ਦੋਸ਼ਮੁਲੋਕ ਵਿਧਯੇ ਯਗੁਨੁ
ਰਟ੍ਟੁਕਾਦੇ ਮੁਨੁਪੁ ਰਾਵਣੁ ਵੇਸ਼ਂਬੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 68 ॥

Meaning:
One who constantly changes their ਵ੍ēṣਅṁ (appearance or disguise) cannot be easily ਵਿśਵਸਿṁਪ ਗਰāḍਉ (trusted), because such external displays often conceal deeper flaws. Even scriptures warn that relying solely on outer appearance leads to misjudgment. Vemana reminds us that even ਰ੍āਵṇਉ, the great deceiver, once came in a saintly disguise—showing that a person’s outer look doesn’t always reflect their true nature.

Commentary:
Judging people by their dress, title, or outer conduct can lead to false trust and disappointment. Authenticity is not in appearance but in consistent, truthful behavior. Being mindful of who we trust, and valuing substance over show, protects us from deception. Likewise, we must avoid putting on false appearances ourselves to gain favor. Integrity, not image, builds lasting trust and respect in relationships and society.

ਇਂਗਲਂਬੁ ਤੋਡ ਨਿਲ ਸਲ੍ਪੁਤੋਡਨੁ
ਪਰੁਨਿ ਯਾਲਿਤੋਡ ਪਤਿਤੁਤੋਡ
ਸਰਸਮਾਡੁਟੇਲ੍ਲ ਚਾਵੁਕੁ ਮੂਲਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 69 ॥

Meaning:
Wearing ਇṁਗਲṁਬੁ (sacred ash) on the body, or associating with a ਸਲ੍ਪੁਤ (disciple or seeker), and even being close to saints, learned people, or the pious will not save one from death. Whether one keeps company with the noble (ਪਰੁਨਿ) or the fallen (ਪਤਿਤੁਤ੍ōḍਅ), or leads a life of enjoyment and ease, ਚਾਵੁ (death) is the inevitable ਮ੍ūਲਮੁ (end) for all. Vemana stresses that no external mark or association can stop the certainty of mortality.

Commentary:
Mortality is universal—no appearance, association, or lifestyle can escape it. This truth urges us to look beyond outward forms and focus on inner growth. Living with awareness of death helps cultivate humility, reduce ego, and inspire meaningful action. Instead of relying on symbols or associations for spiritual identity, one should seek sincerity, self-reflection, and purpose. True spiritual strength lies not in whom we know or what we wear, but in how deeply we live with awareness, integrity, and detachment.

ਐਕਮਤ੍ਯਮੋਕ੍ਕ ਟਾਵਸ਼੍ਯਕਂ ਬੇਪ੍ਡੁ
ਦਾਨਿ ਬਲਿਮਿ ਨੇਂਤਯੈਨ ਗੂਡੁ
ਗਡ੍ਡਿ ਵੇਂਟ ਬੇਟ੍ਟਿ ਕਟ੍ਟਰਾ ਯੇਨੁਂਗੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 70 ॥

Meaning:
ਐਕਮਤ੍ਯṁ (unity or harmony) is the one essential strength that holds everything together. No matter how strong or powerful something may seem, without unity it cannot last. Vemana says that even a simple ਬੇṭṭਇ (twig) tied with dry ਗḍḍਇ (grass) can form a strong bundle if it’s bound with unity. Without it, even grand efforts fall apart.

Commentary:
The true strength of any group—be it family, community, or team—lies in mutual understanding and cooperation. Without unity, even the most capable people or plans collapse. Fostering shared purpose, respect, and collaboration brings lasting success and peace. Holding together through trust and humility transforms weakness into strength, proving that what binds people is more powerful than what separates them.

ਤਾਮਸਿਂਚਿ ਚੇਯਦਗਦੇਟ੍ਟਿ ਕਾਰ੍ਯਂਬੁ
ਵੇਗਿਰਿਂਪ ਨਦਿਯੁ ਵਿਸ਼ਮਗੁਨੁ
ਪਚ੍ਚਿਕਾਯਦੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਪਡਵੇਯ ਫਲਮੌਨਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 71 ॥

Meaning:
A significant ਕ੍āਰ੍ਯṁਬੁ (task) done with ਤ੍āਮਸਮ੍ (laziness, dullness, or carelessness) loses its value and may even cause harm. A fast-moving river, if not properly guided, becomes dangerous. Likewise, trying to eat a ਪਚ੍ਚਿਕ੍āਯ (raw bitter gourd) without cooking makes it unpalatable. Vemana questions whether any meaningful ਫਲਮ੍ (result) can come from such hasty, thoughtless effort.

Commentary:
Work done without the right mindset, discipline, and care leads to poor results or even damage. Hurrying through responsibilities without understanding or preparation spoils the outcome, just like consuming something raw without refining it. Success comes from thoughtful, steady action—where energy is balanced by clarity. Practicing patience, focus, and right timing in what we do not only improves results but also brings confidence and inner satisfaction. Quality effort is more important than rushed effort.

ਤਲ੍ਲੀ ਬਿਡ੍ਡਲਕੁ ਤਗਵੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿਂਚੇਡਿ
ਧਨਮੁ ਸੁਖਮੁ ਗੂਰ੍ਚੁਨਨਿ ਗਡਿਂਤ੍ਰੁ
ਕਾਨੀਯੇਲ੍ਲ ਯੇਡਲ ਘਨ ਦੁਃਖਕਰਮਦਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 72 ॥

Meaning:
Some people, driven by the desire for ਧਨਮੁ (wealth) and ਸੁਖਮੁ (comfort), go so far as to create ਤਗਵੁ (conflict) between their own ਤਲ੍ਲਿ-ਬਿḍḍਅਲਕੁ (mother and children), disrupting natural love and harmony. They justify it by saying it's necessary for a better life. But ਗḍਇṁਤ੍ਰੁ (fate) brings such people into situations where they face deep, lasting ਦੁḥਖṁ (sorrow). Vemana warns that harming close relationships for selfish gain leads only to suffering.

Commentary:
Sacrificing relationships, especially within the family, for money or personal gain ultimately causes pain and regret. Wealth acquired at the cost of love, trust, and connection loses its meaning. True well-being comes not just from what we earn, but from how we nurture bonds with sincerity and care. Prioritizing people over possessions, and love over greed, leads to lasting peace and fulfillment. Choices rooted in compassion build a life that is both meaningful and harmonious.

ਦੋਂਗਮਾਟਲਾਡ ਦੋਰੁਕੁਨੇ ਮੋਕ੍ਸ਼ਮੁ
ਚੇਤਗਾਨਿ ਪਲੁਕੁ ਚੇਟੁਦੇਚ੍ਚੁ
ਗੁਰੁਵੁਪਦ੍ਦੁ ਕਾਦੁ ਗੁਨਹੈਨ੍ਯ ਮਦਿਯਗੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 73 ॥

Meaning:
If ਮ੍ōਕ੍ṣਅਮੁ (liberation) could be attained just by speaking like a thief (ਦੋṁਗ ਮ੍āṭਅਲ੍āḍਅ), then even a deceiver would achieve the highest state. But words alone, without genuine action or ਚ੍ēਤਗ (effort), are meaningless. A person may speak sweetly, but if their mind is filled with falsehood or arrogance, that speech becomes ਚ੍ēṭਉਦੇਚ੍ਚੁ—useless and harmful. Vemana states that being a ਗੁਰੁਵੁ (teacher or leader) is not about position or speech, but about inner character and purity of mind.

Commentary:
Pretending to be wise or spiritual through clever talk, without sincerity or right conduct, leads nowhere. True respect and growth come from aligning words with values and actions. Speaking truthfully, living honestly, and purifying the mind are what define real wisdom. Titles and appearances are hollow unless supported by inner integrity. Choosing to be genuine rather than impressive creates a life of trust, peace, and deeper realization.

ਨਲੁਗੁਰੁ ਕਲ ਚੋਟਨੁ ਦਾ
ਦਲ ਚੂਪੁਚੁ ਮੇਲਗੁਚੁਂਡਿ ਧਨ੍ਯਾਤ ਗਨਗਾ
ਦਲਚੇਡਿ ਯਾਤਡੁ ਨਿਚ੍ਚਲੁ
ਗਲ ਮਾਟਲੇ ਪਲੁਕੁਚੁਂਡਗਾ ਦਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 74 ॥

Meaning:
When a person sits among ਨਲੁਗੁਰੁ (a group of people), speaks with grace and humility, and shows ਦਲ (respect or gentleness), they are seen as ਧਨ੍ਯੁਦੁ (a blessed or noble person). But someone who acts rude or arrogant (ਦਲਚੇḍਇ ਯ੍āਤḍਉ), yet pretends to be wise by constantly talking, is easily exposed. Vemana stresses that it’s not how much one speaks, but how one behaves and expresses themselves that reveals true character.

Commentary:
Respectful and thoughtful communication earns trust and admiration more than loud or boastful talk. Humility, kindness, and clarity in speech reflect maturity and depth. Speaking less but with meaning is far more powerful than dominating conversations without substance. Practicing gentle presence and choosing words with care helps build harmony, encourages understanding, and reveals true wisdom. Character is shown not in how much one says, but in how well they speak and treat others.

ਨਡੁਚੁਨਿਚ੍ਚੁ ਨਤਨਿ ਬਤ੍ਤੇਮਿਚ੍ਚਿਨ ਵਾਨਿ
ਕਡੁਪੁ ਚਲ੍ਲਜੇਸਿ ਘਨਤ ਵਿਡੁਚੁ
ਨਡੁਪ ਨੇਰ ਨੇਰ ਨਤਡੁ ਨਾਲਿ ਮੁਚ੍ਚੇਗਦਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 75 ॥

Meaning:
One who walks with pride (ਨḍਉਚੁ ਨਿਚ੍ਚੁ ਨਤṇਇ), dons fine clothes, and donates food generously (ਕḍਉਪੁ ਚਲ੍ਲ ਜ੍ēਸਿ) may appear to be great in society. But if they lack ਨḍਉਪ ਨ੍ēਰ—inner discipline, balance, and right conduct—they are not truly noble. Vemana points out that real greatness lies not in outer display but in the ability to walk the path of virtue with inner steadiness and ਨਤḍਉ ਨ੍āਲਿ ਮੁਚ੍ਚ੍ē—true grace and humility.

Commentary:
Actions done for show, even charity or good conduct, lose their value without sincerity and inner balance. Outer appearance and public praise mean little if there’s no inner truth or discipline. True nobility is revealed through quiet humility, self-restraint, and consistent integrity. To live meaningfully, one must cultivate inner character along with outer deeds, ensuring that intentions and behavior remain pure and steady, regardless of praise or recognition.

ਪਦੁਗੁਰਾਡੁਮਾਟ ਪਾਡਿਯੈ ਧਰਜੇਲ੍ਲੁ
ਨੋਕ੍ਕਡਾਡੁਮਾਟ ਯੇਕ੍ਕਦੇਂਦੁ
ਵੂਰਕੁਂਡੁ ਵਾਨਿ ਕੂਰੇਲ੍ਲ ਨੋਪਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 76 ॥

Meaning:
A person who constantly talks excessively and boastfully (ਪਦੁ ਗੁਰ੍āḍਉ ਮ੍āṭਅ) loses ਧਰ ਜੇਲ੍ਲੁ—the weight and value of their words. On the other hand, one who speaks just a word or two (ਓਕ੍ਕḍāḍਉ ਮ੍āṭਅ) at the right time, and with meaning, gains more respect. Vemana notes that society tends to disregard the one who speaks too much without depth, while a person of few, thoughtful words is valued and listened to.

Commentary:
Measured, meaningful speech carries more strength than constant chatter. When someone speaks with clarity and restraint, their words have greater impact and credibility. Too much talking often leads to misunderstanding, devaluation, or even ridicule. Practicing silence, thinking before speaking, and choosing one’s words with care helps preserve dignity, build trust, and convey wisdom. Power lies not in how much one says, but in how well one says it.

ਪਤਕ ਮਂਦੁ ਨੋਪ੍ਪੁ ਪਲੁ ਰਤ੍ਨਮੁਲ ਪੇਂਪੁ
ਬਂਗਰਂਦੁ ਕੂਰ੍ਪ ਬਰੁਵੁ ਗਨੁਨੁ
ਗਾਨਿ ਯਿਤਰ ਲੋਹਮੈਨ ਹੀਨਮੁ ਗਾਦੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 77 ॥

Meaning:
A bitter ਪਤਕ ਮਂਦੁ (medicine) cures pain, tiny ਰਤ੍ਨਮੁਲੁ (gems) possess immense value, and soft, delicate ਬਂਗ੍āਰਂਦੁ (gold) carries significant weight. Vemana uses these metaphors to emphasize that true worth is not in outward appearance or volume but in inner quality. Just because something looks simple or is small in size, it doesn’t mean it lacks value—unlike ਇਤਰ ਲ੍ōਹਮੁ (ordinary metals), which may appear strong but lack preciousness.

Commentary:
Substance outweighs appearance. Quiet wisdom, subtle strength, and deep character may go unnoticed by the eye, but they hold far greater power and value than flashy exteriors or loud words. It's important to recognize true worth by looking deeper, whether in people, actions, or things. Cultivating internal virtues and appreciating the quiet strength in others leads to wiser choices and more meaningful relationships.

ਜਨ੍ਨਮੁਲਨੁ ਮਰਿਯੁ ਜਨ੍ਨਿਯਲ ਨਨੇਕ
ਮੁਲ ਨੋਨਰ੍ਚਿਯੁਨ੍ਨ ਫਲਮੁਕਾਨ
ਰਾਕ ਯੁਂਡੁ ਨੀਤਿ ਲੇਕੁਨ੍ਨ ਮਾਤ੍ਰਾਨ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 78 ॥

Meaning:
Merely worshipping many ਜਨ੍ਨਮੁਲੁ (deities) and offering endless respects to their ਜਨ੍ਨਿਯਲੁ (forms or symbols) is of no use if one does not live with righteousness. All such devotion is fruitless if not backed by moral conduct and inner purity. Vemana questions the value of outward ritual when ਨ੍īਤਿ (ethical behavior) is absent.

Commentary:
True devotion lies not in elaborate rituals or external worship, but in leading a life rooted in integrity and compassion. Without honesty, kindness, and righteous living, no amount of prayer or ceremonial offering carries meaning. The essence of spiritual practice is reflected in how one treats others, fulfills duties, and upholds truth. Practicing righteousness is the real worship.

ਤਪ੍ਪੁ ਪਲੁਕੁ ਪਲਿਕਿ ਤਾਤੋਟ ਚੇਸਿਨ
ਕੂਡਿਯੁਨ ਲਕ੍ਸ਼੍ਮੀ ਕ੍ਰੁਂਗਿਪੋਵੁ
ਨੋਟਿਕੁਂਡ ਨੀਲ਼੍ਲ਼ੁ ਨੋਨਰਗਾ ਨਿਲੁਚੁਨਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 79 ॥

Meaning:
Even if one speaks wrongly unintentionally or in haste, and even if the act was done carelessly without much thought, ਲਕ੍ਸ਼੍ਮ੍ī (prosperity) will shrink away from such a person. Just as water cannot stay in a pot that has a hole in it, fortune cannot remain with someone who lacks purity in speech and action.

Commentary:
Careless or dishonest speech—even when not meant with malice—can erode trust and drive away good fortune. Words, once spoken, have power; and if used thoughtlessly, they bring unintended consequences. Maintaining integrity in speech and being mindful of one’s words helps preserve relationships, respect, and blessings. Like a vessel must be whole to hold water, a person must be sincere and careful in communication to retain grace and harmony in life.

ਭੂਮਿ ਨਾਦਿ ਯਨਿਨ ਭੂਮਿ ਫਕ੍ਕੁਨ ਨਵ੍ਵੁ
ਦਾਨ ਹੀਨੁँ ਜੂਚਿ ਧਨਮੁ ਨਵ੍ਵੁ
ਕਦਨ ਭੀਤੁँ ਜੂਚਿ ਕਾਲੁँਡੁ ਨਵ੍ਵੁਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 80 ॥

Meaning:
If someone says, “The earth belongs to me,” the very ਭੂਮਿ (earth) laughs at that arrogance. When a miser boasts of charity, ਧਨਮੁ (wealth) mocks him. And when a coward talks proudly about valor, even his own ਕਾਲਮੁ (time of death or destiny) laughs at him. Vemana uses sharp irony to expose the hollowness of false claims and hypocrisy.

Commentary:
Arrogance, especially when not backed by genuine action or truth, leads to self-deception and public ridicule. One cannot truly own the earth, be praised for generosity without giving, or be called brave while living in fear. Humility, authenticity, and integrity are essential. Claims should align with character, and actions must reflect truth—only then can one earn respect and avoid becoming a subject of mockery by life itself.

ਨੀਤਿ ਜ੍ਯੋਤਿਲੇਕ ਨਿਰ੍ਮਲਂਬਗੁ ਨੇਦਿ
ਏਟ੍ਲੁ ਕਲਗੁਬਰ ਮਦੇਂਤਯੈਨ
ਧਨਮੁ ਗਲਿਗਿਯੁਨ੍ਨ ਦੈਵਂਬੁ ਗਲੁਗਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 81 ॥

Meaning:
Without the lamp of ਨ੍īਤਿ (righteousness), one cannot attain ਨਿਰ੍ਮਲਂਬਗੁ ਨ੍ēਦਿ—true inner purity or clarity. No matter how much pride or power a person possesses, it is useless without virtue. Even if someone has great ਧਨਮੁ (wealth), they cannot attain or realize the divine without righteousness.

Commentary:
Wealth, status, or ego alone cannot lead a person to peace or spiritual fulfillment. What truly illuminates life is virtue—living with integrity, justice, and a clean heart. Like a lamp lights the path in darkness, righteousness guides one through confusion and suffering. Cultivating ethical behavior is essential, not just for worldly harmony, but for any hope of divine realization or lasting inner peace.

ਪਗਯੁਡਗੁ ਗੋਪਮੁਡਿਗਿਨ
ਪਗਯੁਡੁਗਨ੍​ ਕੋਰ੍ਕੇਲੁਡੁਗੁ ਬਰਜਨ੍ਮਂਪੁਂ
ਦਗੁਲੁਡੁਗੁ ਭੇਦਮੁਡਿਗਿਨ
ਤ੍ਰਿਗੁਣਮੁ ਲੁਡੁਗਂਗ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ ਸ੍ਥਿਰਮਗੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 82 ॥

Meaning:
Even when a person attains ਗ੍ōਪਮੁ (fame) or fulfills intense ਕ੍ōਰ੍ਕੇਲੁ (desires), or is born in a ਬਰਜਨ੍ਮਂਪੁ (high caste), these alone do not grant liberation. Even deep ਭ੍ēਦਮੁ (knowledge of distinctions) is not sufficient. Only when one rises above the influence of the ਤ੍ਰਿਗੁṇਅਮੁਲੁ (three qualities: sattva, rajas, tamas), can one attain firm ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ (liberation).

Commentary:
Social status, intellectual ability, or fulfillment of worldly desires may bring temporary satisfaction, but they are not the path to lasting freedom or peace. True liberation comes when one transcends the pull of emotions, actions, and ignorance—the play of the three gunas. Detachment, self-awareness, and a steady mind rooted in truth lead one toward real spiritual stability.

ਪਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿ ਕੂਡੁ ਪਰੁਲਕੋਸਹ੍ਯਮੇ
ਯੁਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿ ਵਾਡੇ ਯਧਿਕ ਬਲੁਡੁ
ਮੁਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿ ਵਾਡੁ ਮੋਦਟਿ ਸੁਜ੍ਜਾਨਿਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 83 ॥

Meaning:
A ਕੂਡੁ (meal) without ਪਪ੍ਪੁ (dal) is hard to eat and unappealing—just like a person who is not helpful to others. One who has no ਯੁਪ੍ਪੁ (humility or yielding nature) may appear strong, but lacks depth. But the one who lives without ਮੁਪ੍ਪੁ (arrogance or pride) is the true wise person—the ਸੁਜ੍ਨ੍āਨਿ in the fullest sense.

Commentary:
The verse emphasizes the value of inner character over outer appearances. A life without humility and service to others is empty, no matter how strong or powerful one appears. Real strength lies in gentleness, and real wisdom lies in the absence of pride. Just as food is incomplete without essential ingredients, human character is incomplete without kindness, humility, and selflessness.

ਨਿਕ੍ਕਮੈਨ ਮਂਚਿ ਨੀਲਮੋਕ੍ਕਟਿ ਚਾਲੁ
ਤਲ਼ੁਕੁ ਬੇਲ਼ੁਕੁ ਰਾਲੁ ਤਟ੍ਟੇਡੇਲ
ਚਦੁਵ ਪਦ੍ਯਮਰਯ ਜਾਲਦਾ ਯੋਕ੍ਕਟਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 84 ॥

Meaning:
A ਕੂਡੁ (meal) without ਪਪ੍ਪੁ (dal) is hard to eat and unappealing—just like a person who is not helpful to others. One who has no ਯੁਪ੍ਪੁ (humility or yielding nature) may appear strong, but lacks depth. But the one who lives without ਮੁਪ੍ਪੁ (arrogance or pride) is the true wise person—the ਸੁਜ੍ਨ੍āਨਿ in the fullest sense.

Commentary:
The verse emphasizes the value of inner character over outer appearances. A life without humility and service to others is empty, no matter how strong or powerful one appears. Real strength lies in gentleness, and real wisdom lies in the absence of pride. Just as food is incomplete without essential ingredients, human character is incomplete without kindness, humility, and selflessness.

ਪਰੁਲ ਦਤ੍ਤਮੋਪ੍ਪਿ ਪਾਲਨਚੇਸਿਨ
ਨਿਲ ਸ੍ਵਦਤ੍ਤਮੁਨਕੁ ਵਿਨੁ ਮਡਿਯਗੁ
ਨਵਨਿ ਪਰੁਲ ਦਤ੍ਤ ਮਹਪਰਿਂਪਗ ਰਾਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਧਾਬਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 85 ॥

Meaning:
One may diligently take care of ਪਰੁਲ ਦਤ੍ਤਂ (property donated by others), but that does not grant the same satisfaction or merit as caring for what is genuinely earned or given to oneself—ਸ੍ਵਦਤ੍ਤਂ (one’s own rightful share). However grand the other's donation may seem, it doesn’t bring true fulfillment or lasting value.

Commentary:
Taking responsibility for things that rightfully belong to you brings real contentment. Depending on or boasting about what others gave—whether property, power, or position—can never equate the value of what is earned or deserved through one’s own merit. Authenticity and rightful ownership bring true peace, while borrowed glory is shallow and impermanent.

ਨਿਜਮੁਲਾਡੁ ਵਾਨਿ ਨਿਂਦਿਂਚੁ ਜਗਮੇਲ੍ਲ
ਨਿਜਮੁ ਬਲ੍ਕਰਾਦੁ ਨੀਚੁਲਕਡ
ਨਿਜ ਮਹਾਤ੍ਮੁਗੂਡ ਨਿਜਮਾਡਵਲਯੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 86 ॥

Meaning:
When a person speaks ਨਿਜਮੁ (truth), the entire world often turns against them and criticizes them. The ਨੀਚੁਲੁ (low-minded people) especially cannot tolerate or accept the truth. Even a truly ਮਹਾਤ੍ਮ (great soul) must face hardship and isolation if they choose to stand firmly by truth and speak it fearlessly.

Commentary:
Upholding truth often invites resistance, misunderstanding, or even hostility, especially from those who feel threatened by it. Yet, it is a mark of greatness to remain firm in honesty despite opposition. Speaking the truth with courage is not always easy, but it is noble. One must be prepared to stand alone if necessary, for truth is rarely popular, but always powerful.

ਪਦੁਗੁਰਾਡੁਮਾਟ ਪਾਡਿਯੈ ਧਰਜੇਲ੍ਲੁ
ਨੋਕ੍ਕਡਾਡੁਮਾਟ ਯੇਕ੍ਕਦੇਂਦੁ
ਵੂਰਕੁਂਡੁ ਵਾਨਿ ਕੂਰੇਲ੍ਲ ਨੋਪਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 87 ॥

Meaning:
A person who speaks ten words casually and carelessly may stir up serious consequences in the world, while even a single sharp or harsh word can spread far and cause lasting damage. Yet, ironically, the one who spoke them feels no pain or responsibility for the hurt caused—ਵੂਰਕੁਂਡੁ (he remains undisturbed), while others suffer.

Commentary:
Words have power—much more than we often realize. Careless or hurtful speech can deeply wound others, even if the speaker feels unaffected. It is important to speak mindfully, with awareness of the impact one’s words can have. Just because we escape the consequences doesn't mean the damage hasn't been done. True wisdom lies in thoughtful, compassionate communication.

ਪਰੁਲ ਮੇਲੁ ਚੂਚਿ ਪਲੁਗਾਕਿ ਵਲੇ ਨੇਪ੍ਪੁ
ਵਟ੍ਟਿ ਮਾਟਲਾਡੁ ਵਾਡਧਮੁਡੁ
ਅਟ੍ਟਿ ਵਾਨਿ ਬ੍ਰਤੁਕੁ ਟਦਿਯੇਲ ਮਂਟਿਕਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਧਾਬਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 88 ॥

Meaning:
One who praises others out of jealousy or with hidden bitterness in his heart—speaking artificially just for show—is a truly lowly person. Such a life, full of pretence and double-speak, is like a heap of ashes: worthless and devoid of true warmth or light.

Commentary:
Flattery or sweet words that come from a heart full of comparison, envy, or falsehood have no real value. Authenticity in speech and emotion is essential. Pretending to admire while secretly resenting not only corrupts one’s character but also makes life hollow. Honesty in appreciation and freedom from comparison bring dignity and peace to both speech and living.

ਭਯਮਂਤਯੁ ਦੇਹਮੁਨਕੇ
ਭਯ ਮੁਡਿਗਿਨ ਨਿਸ਼੍ਚਯਂਬੁ ਪਰਮਾਤ੍ਮੁਨਕੇ
ਲਯਮਂਤਯੁ ਜੀਵੁਨਕੇ
ਜਯਮਾਤ੍ਮਕੁ ਨਨੁਚੁ ਜਗਤਿँ ਜਾਟੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 89 ॥

Meaning:
Fear is natural to the body, which is perishable, but the firm resolve and fearlessness belong to the ਪਰਮਾਤ੍ਮ alone. The individual self (ਜੀਵੁਦੁ) is subject to dissolution (ਲਯਮੁ), whereas victory and permanence belong to the Supreme Self (ਆਥ੍ਮ). Hence, says Vemana, understand who truly wins in this world.

Commentary:
Fear and anxiety arise when we identify solely with the body and the ego-bound self. But true fearlessness emerges when one aligns with the inner self, the unchanging ਆਤ੍ਮਨ੍, which is beyond decay and death. Recognizing this truth helps us face challenges with calm strength, knowing that the deepest part of us is untouched by worldly loss or fear.

ਭੂਮਿ ਨਾਦਿ ਯਨਿਨ ਭੂਮਿ ਫਕ੍ਕੁਨ ਨਵ੍ਵੁ
ਦਾਨ ਹੀਨੁँ ਜੂਚਿ ਧਨਮੁ ਨਵ੍ਵੁ
ਕਦਨ ਭੀਤੁँ ਜੂਚਿ ਕਾਲੁँਡੁ ਨਵ੍ਵੁਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 90 ॥

Meaning:
When a person claims, “The earth is mine,” the earth silently mocks him, knowing that no one truly owns it. Wealth laughs at the miser who hoards and never gives. Time laughs at those who fear death and conflict, for it moves on unaffected. All these reveal the futility of ego and attachment.

Commentary:
Possessiveness, miserliness, and fear all stem from illusion. The earth, wealth, and time are indifferent to our claims and emotions—they persist, while we pass. Letting go of ownership pride, sharing generously, and facing life without fear brings wisdom and harmony with the natural order.

ਮਾਟਜੇਪ੍ਪ ਵਿਨਨਿ ਮਨੁਜੁਡੁ ਮੂਰ੍ਖੁਡੁ
ਮਾਟ ਵਿਨ੍ਨ ਨਰੁਡੁ ਮਾਨੁਡਗੁਨੁ
ਮਾਟ ਵਿਨਗ ਜੇਪ੍ਪ ਮਾਨੁਟ ਕੂਡਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 91 ॥

Meaning:
A person who speaks without listening is a fool. One who only listens but never speaks or expresses themselves cannot be called truly human. True communication and understanding happen only when both listening and speaking go hand in hand.

Commentary:
Effective communication is a balance between speaking and listening. Speaking without understanding others shows arrogance, while staying silent despite knowing the truth indicates passivity or fear. Wisdom lies in listening carefully and speaking thoughtfully—this balance leads to meaningful relationships and growth.

ਮਨਸੁ ਤੇਲਿਸਿ ਯੋਕਨਿ ਮਾਟਕੁ ਬ੍ਰਤਿਚੇਪ੍ਪ
ਸਂਤਸਿਂਚੁ ਨਤਡੁ ਚਾਲਮੇਚ੍ਚੁ
ਮਨਸੁ ਦੇਲਿਯਕੁਨ੍ਨਡਨਿਯੁਚੁ ਨਨੁਨੇਦੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 92 ॥

Meaning:
If one speaks in alignment with the understanding of another’s heart and intentions, bringing joy and contentment through thoughtful words, such a person is truly admirable. But someone who talks without grasping the feelings of the other is simply making noise without purpose.

Commentary:
Words carry value only when they connect with the listener’s mind and heart. Speaking without sensitivity to others' emotions leads to misunderstanding or hurt. It is far more meaningful to be someone who speaks with empathy and insight—such speech builds trust, harmony, and peace in relationships.

ਆਲਿਮਾਟਲੁ ਵਿਨਿ ਅਨ੍ਨਦਮ੍ਮੁਲ ਰੋਸਿ
ਵੇਰੇਪੋਵੁਵਾਡੁ ਵੇਰ੍ਰਿਵਾਡੁ
ਕੁਕ੍ਕਤੋਕ ਪਟ੍ਟਿ ਗੋਦਾਰੀਦਿਨਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 93 ॥

Meaning:
One who listens to malicious words and turns against their own brothers or loved ones is truly foolish. Such a person, who lets himself be swayed and separates from family because of someone else’s words, is like a dog caught and dragged by a leash—it loses both freedom and dignity.

Commentary:
Letting anger or suspicion take over because of what others say can damage close bonds. Instead of reacting blindly, it’s wiser to pause, reflect, and understand the truth before judging those close to us. Loyalty and reason must prevail over hearsay and manipulation.

ਜ੍ਞਾਨਿਯੈਨਵਾਨਿ ਮਾਨਕ ਪੂਜਿਂਚੁ
ਮਨੁਜੁਡੇਪ੍ਪੁਡੁ ਪਰਮੁਨਨੁ ਮੁਦਂਬੁ
ਸੁਖਮੁਨਂਦੁਚੁਂਡੁਸੂਰੁਲੁ ਮੇਚ੍ਚਗ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 94 ॥

Meaning:
One who has realized true knowledge (ਜ੍ਞਾਨ) should be revered, for such a person sees the Supreme even in ordinary humans. By finding joy in everything and living in harmony with the world, the wise earn the admiration of even the divine beings.

Commentary:
True wisdom lies in seeing divinity in all beings and not making distinctions based on status or appearance. When the mind is filled with contentment and reverence for life itself, happiness naturally follows, and even the highest ideals honor such a life.

ਹਾਨਿ ਕਲੁਗਬੋਦੁ ਹਰਿਮਦਿ ਨੇਂਚੇਡੁ
ਵਾਨਿ ਕਬ੍ਦੁ ਪਰਮੁ ਵਸੁਧਯਂਦੁ
ਪੂਨਿ ਨਿਸ਼੍ਠਮੀਰਿ ਪੋਦਲਕ ਯੁਂਡੁਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਰਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 95 ॥

Meaning:
One who holds unwavering faith in ਃਅਰਿ (the Supreme Being) will never face true harm. Such a person is indeed noble and spiritually exalted even while living on this earth. With firm dedication and steady focus, one remains untouched by worldly downfall.

Commentary:
When inner conviction is rooted in the divine and supported by sincere effort and discipline, external challenges cannot destabilize one’s peace or purpose. Steadfastness in values and unwavering trust in the good keep a person resilient and elevated amid life’s uncertainties.

ਅਲ੍ਪੁਡੇਪ੍ਪੁਡੁ ਪਲੁਕੁ ਨਾਡਂਬਰਮੁਗਾਨੁ
ਸਜ੍ਜਨੁਂਡੁ ਪਲੁਕੁ ਚਲ੍ਲਗਾਨੁ
ਕਂਚੁ ਮੋਗਿਨਟ੍ਲੁ ਕਨਕਂਬੁ ਮੋਗੁਨਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 96 ॥

Meaning:
A petty person always speaks boastfully, flaunting their limited knowledge or virtue, whereas a truly noble person speaks gently and humbly. Just as gold does not make a loud noise like bronze when struck, the truly valuable remain quiet and dignified.

Commentary:
True worth is often silent and unpretentious. Those who constantly seek attention or brag are usually lacking in depth, while the genuinely wise or good-hearted let their actions and quiet presence speak for them. Cultivating humility and restraint in speech reflects inner strength and character.

ਨ੍ਯਾਯਸ਼ਾਸ੍ਤ੍ਰ ਮਰਯ ਨਨ੍ਯਾਯਮੁਨ ਦਿਂਚੁ
ਧਰ੍ਮਸ਼ਾਸ੍ਤ੍ਰ ਮੋਸਗੁ ਰੁਗ੍ਮਤਂਬੁ
ਜ੍ਯੋਤਿਸ਼ਮੁ ਜਨਮੁਲ ਨੀਤੁਲ ਦਪ੍ਪਿਂਚੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 97 ॥

Meaning:
One may study the ਨ੍ਯਾਯਸ਼ਾਸ੍ਤ੍ਰ (science of logic) but apply it unjustly, use the ਧਰ੍ਮਸ਼ਾਸ੍ਤ੍ਰ (scriptures of righteousness) to support cruelty, and distort ਜ੍ਯੋਤਿਸ਼ (astrology) to mislead people instead of guiding them with truth.

Commentary:
Knowledge and sacred disciplines should be used with integrity and compassion, not twisted for selfish purposes. When logic is manipulated, dharma is used to justify harm, or astrology is abused for profit, the true purpose of these sciences is lost. Wisdom lies not in mere learning but in righteous application for the upliftment of others.

ਦੇਵੁਡਨਗ ਵੇਰੇ ਦੇਸ਼ਮੁਂਦੁਨ੍ਨਾਡੇ
ਦੇਹਿਤੋਡ ਨੇਪੁਡੁ ਦੇਹਮਂਦੇ
ਵਾਹਨਮੁਲਨੇਕ੍ਕਿ ਪਡਿਦੋਲੁਚੁਨ੍ਨਾਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 98 ॥

Meaning:
Though people often imagine ਦੇਵੁਡੁ (God) as residing in some distant land or separate realm, Vemana says that the divine is always present within the ਦੇਹਿ (embodied being) itself. Just as a driver sits within a vehicle to operate it, God resides within the body and drives all its actions.

Commentary:
Divinity is not to be searched for elsewhere—it is intimately present within each living being. Realizing that the divine is not distant but ever-present within oneself leads to a shift in how we treat others and ourselves. Respecting life, acting with humility, and seeking the divine inwardly becomes the truest form of worship.

ਭੂਮਿਲੋਨ ਬੁਟ੍ਟੁ ਭੂਸਾਰਮੇਲ੍ਲਨੁ
ਤਨੁਵੁਲੋਨ ਬੁਟ੍ਟੁ ਤਤ੍ਤ੍ਵਮੇਲ੍ਲ
ਸ਼੍ਰਮਲੋਨ ਬੁਟ੍ਟੁ ਸਰ੍ਵਂਬੁ ਤਾਨੌਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 99 ॥

Meaning:
All that arises from the earth—ਭੂਸਾਰਮ੍ (the wealth and matter of the world)—originates from the earth itself. Likewise, all principles and truths (ਤਤ੍ਤ੍ਵਮ੍) are inherent within the human body. The fruits of labor, too, are born from effort. Ultimately, everything is contained within oneself—nothing truly comes from outside.

Commentary:
Self-awareness is the foundation for discovering truth. The resources of the world, the knowledge of life, and the fruits of one’s work are not foreign—they emerge from within and through our actions. Seeking external validation or chasing illusions distracts from recognizing our own inner completeness. Turning inward with effort and awareness brings real fulfillment.

ਵ੍ਰਾਤਕਂਟੇ ਹੇਚ੍ਚੁ ਪਰਮੀਦੁ ਦੈਵਂਬੁ
ਚੇਤਕਂਟੇ ਹੇਚ੍ਚੁ ਵ੍ਰਾਤ ਲੇਦੁ
ਵ੍ਰਾਤ ਕਜੁਡੁ ਕਰ੍ਤ ਚੇਤਕੁ ਦਾਕਰ੍ਤ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 100 ॥

Meaning:
The divine power (ਦੈਵਂਬੁ) is greater than the ritual vow (ਵ੍ਰਾਤਕਂਟੇ), but no vow is greater than one’s action (ਚੇਤਕਂਟੇ). The one who performs the vow is the true doer (ਕਰ੍ਤ), and the action of the hand holds more weight than the vow itself. Simply put, deeds matter more than intentions or formal observances.

Commentary:
Rituals and vows have value, but they are secondary to meaningful action. What we do with sincerity and responsibility in our daily conduct is more important than rigidly following ceremonies without understanding or involvement. True spiritual merit lies in action rooted in purpose, not in blind ritual.

ਚਿਪ੍ਪਲੋਨਬਡ੍ਡ ਚਿਨੁਕੁ ਮੁਤ੍ਯਂਬਯ੍ਯੇ
ਨੀਟ ਬਡ੍ਡ ਚਿਨੁਕੁ ਨੀਟ ਗਲਿਸੇ
ਬ੍ਰਾਪ੍ਤਿ ਗਲੁਗੁ ਚੋਟ ਫਲਮੇਲ ਤਪ੍ਪੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 101 ॥

Meaning:
A drop of water confined in a shell becomes a pearl (ਮੁਤ੍ਯਂਬਯ੍ਯੇ), while the same drop falling into plain water simply merges into it. Only when something falls or reaches the right place (ਬ੍ਰਾਪ੍ਤਿ ਗਲੁਗੁ ਚੋਟ) does it yield meaningful results; otherwise, it goes in vain (ਤਪ੍ਪੁਰਾ).

Commentary:
The value of effort or talent depends on the right environment and context. Even a small quality or act, when nurtured in the right setting, can shine brilliantly. But in an unsuitable or inattentive environment, even something precious may go unnoticed or wasted. It reminds us to seek the right company, atmosphere, or purpose that allows our inner potential to blossom.

ਇਂਟਿ ਇਂਟਿਲੋਨਨੀਸ਼੍ਵਰੁਡੁਂਡਗ
ਨਂਟਿ ਚੂਡਲੇਕ ਯਡਵੁਲਂਦੁ
ਨੁਂਟ ਮੇਟਂਚੁਨੁਂਦੁਰਾ ਜੋਗੁਲੈ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 102 ॥

Meaning:
When ਨੀਸ਼੍ਵਰੁਡੁ (God) is present in every home (ਇਂਟਿ ਇਂਟਿਲੋਨ), why go wandering (ਯਡਵੁਲਂਦੁ) unable to see Him? Failing to recognize the divine within and around, some still roam begging, acting like ਜੋਗੁਲੈ (mendicants), looking for what is already near.

Commentary:
True divinity resides within us and in our immediate surroundings. Searching for God or truth outside, while ignoring what's already accessible in our own hearts and homes, leads to unnecessary struggle. Recognizing the sacred in everyday life, relationships, and self is the beginning of real spiritual awareness.

ਚਿਤ੍ਤਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਧਿ ਕਲਿਗਿਚੇਸਿਨ ਪੁਣ੍ਯਂਬੁ
ਕੋਂਚੇਮੈਨ ਨਦਿਯੁ ਕੋਦਵਗਾਦੁ
ਵਿਤ੍ਤਨਂਬੁ ਮਰ੍ਰਿ ਵ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਕ੍ਸ਼ਂਬੁਨਕੁ ਨੇਂਤੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 103 ॥

Meaning:
Only that merit (ਪੁਣ੍ਯਂਬੁ) which is performed with a pure heart (ਚਿਤ੍ਤਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਧਿ) bears real fruit. Just as even a small stream (ਨਦਿਯੁ) cannot swell unless there is rain, mere acts without inner sincerity don’t lead to growth. Like a small seed (ਵਿਤ੍ਤਨਂਬੁ) growing into a vast ਮਰ੍ਰਿ ਵ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਕ੍ਸ਼ਮ੍ (banyan tree), a little virtue done with purity can bring great transformation.

Commentary:
What matters is not the size of an action, but the purity of intention behind it. A small good deed done sincerely is more powerful than a grand act done for show. Cultivating inner purity and genuine intentions makes even modest efforts spiritually meaningful and impactful.

ਅਗ੍ਨਿਬਾਨਾ ਮੇਸਿ ਯਂਬੁਧਿ ਨਿਂਕਿਂਚੁ
ਰਾਮੁਡਵਲਿ ਕੇਗ ਰਾਕ, ਨਿਲਿਚਿ
ਚੇਟ੍ਲੁ ਗਿਰੁਲੁ ਤੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਸੇਤੁਵੁ ਗਟ੍ਟਡਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 104 ॥

Meaning:
Lord Rama shot ਅਗ੍ਨਿਬਾਨ (a fiery arrow) into the ocean (ਯਂਬੁਧਿ), commanding it to give way. When the ocean did not respond, Rama stood firm and determined (ਨਿਲਿਚਿ), eventually summoning the ਵਨਾਰਸੇਨ to gather trees and rocks (ਚੇਟ੍ਲੁ ਗਿਰੁਲੁ) to build a mighty bridge (ਸੇਤੁਵੁ) across it. Thus, what seemed impossible was achieved with perseverance and resolve.

Commentary:
When faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, determined action combined with strategic effort can lead to success. Even the vast ocean yielded when met with unshaken will. Challenges in life can be overcome through inner strength, patience, and collaborative action, just as Rama transformed adversity into achievement through resolve and leadership.

ਐਦੁ ਵੇਲ਼੍ਲੁ ਬਲਿਮਿ ਹਸ੍ਤਂਬੁ ਪਨਿਚੇਯੁ
ਨਂ ਦੋਕਂਡੁ ਵਿਡ੍ਡ ਪੋਂਦੁ ਚੇਡੁਨੁ
ਸ੍ਵੀਯੁਡੋਕਡੁ ਵਿਡਿਨ ਜੇਡੁਕਦਾ ਪਨਿਬਲ੍ਮਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 105 ॥

Meaning:
Though a hand has five fingers, only when they act in unity does it become strong and capable (ਐਦੁ ਵੇਲ਼੍ਲੁ ਬਲਿਮਿ ਹਸ੍ਤਂਬੁ ਪਨਿਚੇਯੁ). If one finger is missing (ਓਕਂਡੁ ਵਿਡ੍ਡ), the function is hampered. Just like that, a single person's strength or effort alone is insufficient without collective harmony. Division (ਜੇਡੁਕਦਾ) weakens power and purpose.

Commentary:
Unity is strength. Whether in a family, community, or team, working together with mutual cooperation creates effectiveness and resilience. Individual brilliance cannot match the power of a coordinated group working with shared intent. Collaboration brings true success where isolated effort might fail.

ਆਤ੍ਮਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ ਵਲਨ ਨਖਿਲਂਬ ਤਾਨਯ੍ਯੇ
ਜੀਵਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ ਵਲਨ ਜੀਵੁਡਯ੍ਯੇ
ਮੋਹਬੁਦ੍ਧਿਲਯਮੁ ਮੁਂਦਰ ਗਨੁਗੋਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 106 ॥

Meaning:
Through the awareness of the Self (ਆਤ੍ਮਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ), one realizes that everything in existence is none other than the Self itself (ਨਖਿਲਂਬ ਤਾਨਯ੍ਯੇ). But through identification with the ego and individuality (ਜੀਵਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ), a person considers himself merely a limited being (ਜੀਵੁਡਯ੍ਯੇ). True realization dawns only when this delusion (ਮੋਹਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ) dissolves.

Commentary:
The difference between bondage and liberation lies in one’s perspective. When the mind is clouded by attachment and ego, one sees separation and limitation. But when awareness shifts to the Self, everything is seen as one, leading to inner freedom. Cultivating Self-knowledge and shedding false identification is the path to peace and clarity.

ਗੁਣਮੁਲੋਗਲਵਾਨਿ ਕੁਲਮੇਂਚਗਾਨੇਲ
ਗੁਣਮੁ ਕਲਿਗੇਨੇਨਿ ਕੋਟਿਸੇਯੁ
ਗਣਮੁਲੇਕ ਯੁਨ੍ਨ ਗੁਡ੍ਡਿਗਵ੍ਵਯੁਲੇਦੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 107 ॥

Meaning:
How can one boast of their caste (ਕੁਲਮ੍) if they lack good qualities (ਗੁਣਮੁਲੁ)? Even if someone is born in a high lineage, what is the use if they do not cultivate noble virtues or contribute positively to society? A worthless person without good traits is no better than a blind monkey (ਗੁਡ੍ਡਿਗਵ੍ਵਯੁਲੇਦੁ), no matter their birth or background.

Commentary:
True worth lies not in one’s birth or caste but in the virtues one cultivates—kindness, knowledge, humility, and integrity. Respect should be earned by character, not inherited by birth. This challenges us to judge people by their actions and values, not by their social labels.

ਤਲ੍ਲਿਤਂਡ੍ਰੁਲਂਦੁ ਦਯਲੇਨਿ ਪੁਤ੍ਰੁਂਡੁ
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਨੇਮਿ? ਵਾਡੁ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਨੇਮਿ?
ਪੁਟ੍ਟਲੋਨਿ ਚੇਦਲੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਦਾ ਗਿਟ੍ਟਦਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 108 ॥

Meaning:
If a son is born to parents but lacks compassion and love toward them, what value does his birth (ਪੁਟ੍ਟੁ) or existence (ਗਿਟ੍ਟੁ) have? Such a person, though born, is no better than the thorns (ਚੇਦਲੁ) that grow among useful plants—they are born, but only cause harm. Simply being born is not meaningful if one fails to show love and duty towards parents.

Commentary:
Being born into a family is not enough—it is compassion, gratitude, and responsibility that define a worthy life. A person who does not honour their parents or care for them with affection is like a wasted birth. It reminds us to uphold our duties with a kind and loving heart, especially toward those who gave us life.

ਕੋਪਮੁਨ ਘਨਤ ਕੋਂਚੇਮੈਪੋਵੁਨੁ
ਕੋਪਮੁਨਨੁ ਗੁਣਮੁ ਕੋਰਤਪਡੁਨੁ
ਕੋਪਮਣਚਨੇਨਿ ਕੋਰਿਕਲੀਡੇਰੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 109 ॥

Meaning:
Even a small surge of ਕੋਪਮੁ (anger) can destroy one's dignity (ਘਨਤ). Anger diminishes all good qualities (ਗੁਣਮੁ) and clouds one’s judgment. A person who is constantly driven by anger has no true desire or purpose left—they are consumed by their rage.

Commentary:
Anger not only ruins one’s character but also distances them from clarity, peace, and meaningful goals. Controlling anger is essential to retain dignity and preserve the good qualities within. Cultivating patience and inner calm protects relationships and personal growth.

ਏਲੁਗੁ ਤੋਲੁ ਤੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਏਡਾਦਿ ਯੁਤਿਕਿਨਾ
ਨਲੁਪੁ ਨਲੁਪੇਕਾਨਿ ਤੇਲੁਪੁਕਾਦੁ
ਕੋਯ੍ਯਬੋਮ੍ਮ ਤੇਚ੍ਚਿ ਕੋਟ੍ਟਿਤੇ ਗੁਣਿਯੋਨੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 110 ॥

Meaning:
You may bring a white buffalo hide and soak it for a whole year, but it will never become white if it is inherently black. Similarly, if you carve a doll out of unfit wood, it won’t become a skilled dancer. Outer efforts cannot change the intrinsic nature of something that is fundamentally unsuitable.

Commentary:
Trying to reform someone or something that lacks the core disposition or capability may be futile. True transformation must arise from within, not merely through external conditioning. It's wise to recognize potential before investing time and effort.

ਅਲ੍ਪਬੁਦ੍ਧਿਵਾਨਿਕਧਿਕਾਰਮਿਚ੍ਚਿਨ
ਦੋਡ੍ਡਵਾਰਿਨੇਲ੍ਲ ਤੋਲਗਗੋਟ੍ਟੁ
ਚੇਪ੍ਪੁਦਿਨੇਡੁ ਕੁਕ੍ਕ ਚੇਰਕੁ ਤੀਪੇਰੁਗੁਨਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 111 ॥

Meaning:
If power or authority is handed over to a person of ਅਲ੍ਪਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ (limited intelligence), it will only lead to disaster, even for the wise and capable. Giving instructions to such a person is as futile as offering sugarcane to a dog—it cannot appreciate its value.

Commentary:
Leadership or responsibility should be given only to those with the maturity and wisdom to handle it. When authority is placed in the wrong hands, it harms not just the system but even affects those who are good and deserving. Discretion in choosing who to trust with responsibility is essential for harmony and success.

ਪਟ੍ਟੁਪਟ੍ਟਰਾਦੁ ਪਟ੍ਟਿਵਿਡੁਵਰਾਦੁ
ਪਟ੍ਟੇਨੇਨਿ ਬਿਗਿਯ ਪਟ੍ਟਵਲਯੁ
ਪਟ੍ਟੁਵਿਡੁਟਕਨ੍ਨਾ ਪਡਿਚਚ੍ਚੁਟੇਮੇਲੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 112 ॥

Meaning:
Effort without understanding is fruitless. One who lacks the strength or eligibility to take up a task cannot accomplish it just by trying. Even if someone attempts something blindly without the needed capacity or commitment, success remains distant. Rather than letting go or holding on without purpose, it is wiser to assess whether the goal is truly worth pursuing.

Commentary:
Blind persistence without inner readiness or capability only leads to frustration. It’s important to discern whether what we’re holding on to is genuinely valuable and within our reach. Letting go of unsuitable pursuits and focusing energy on meaningful efforts leads to wiser living.

ਤੁਮ੍ਮਚੇਟ੍ਟੁ ਮੁਂਡ੍ਲ ਤੋਡਨੇਪੁਟ੍ਟੁਨੁ
ਵਿਤ੍ਤੁਲੋਨਨੁਂਡੁ ਵੇਡਲੁਨਟ੍ਲੁ
ਮੂਰ੍ਖੁਨਕੁਨੁ ਬੁਦ੍ਧਿ ਮੁਂਦੁਗਾ ਬੁਟ੍ਟਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 113 ॥

Meaning:
Just as a tummacheTTu (milk hedge plant) grows on its own without being deliberately planted, and seeds sprout from within the soil unexpectedly, so too wisdom (buddhi) can sometimes arise even in the heart of a foolish person (moorkhudu), without formal training or prior intent.

Commentary:
Wisdom can emerge spontaneously, regardless of one’s background or perceived intelligence. Labels like “foolish” or “uneducated” don't always define a person’s potential for insight. Remaining open to unexpected sources of truth or inspiration allows us to learn from all kinds of people and situations.

ਕਪਟਿ ਵੇਸ਼ਮੂਨਿ ਕਡਗਂਡ੍ਲੁ ਪਡਨੇਲ
ਵਿਪਿਨ ਭੂਮਿ ਤਿਰਿਗਿ ਵਿਸੁਗਨੇਲ
ਯੁਪਮੁਤੋਨੇ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ ਉਨ੍ਨਦਿ ਚੂਡਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿ ਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ ॥ 114 ॥

Meaning:
What is the use of wandering in forests (vipina bhoomi) wearing fake ascetic disguises (kapaTi vEShamu) and letting the body suffer hardships (kaDagaMDlu paDanEla)? Liberation (mukti) is not found in outer rituals or appearances but is attained through sincere yupamu—discipline and inner truth.

Commentary:
Authentic spiritual progress doesn’t come from external show or artificial practices but from genuine inner discipline and detachment. Pretending to be spiritual or subjecting oneself to meaningless suffering is futile. Real transformation lies in self-control, sincerity, and inward purity, not in rituals done for display.

ਅਨੁਵੁਗਾਨਿ ਚੋਟ ਅਧਿਕੁਲਮਨਰਾਦੁ
ਕੋਂਚੇਮੁਂਦੁਟੇਲ੍ਲ ਕੋਦੁਵਕਾਦੁ
ਕੋਂਡ ਯਦ੍ਦਮਂਦੁ ਕੋਂਚਮੈ ਉਂਡਦਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 115 ॥

Meaning:
One who doesn't fit a place or context (anuvugaani chOTa) cannot be called a leader or superior (adhikulamanaraadu). Something that lies just a little ahead (koMchemuMduTella) does not necessarily lead or dominate (koduvakaadu). Just because something sits on the slope (koMDa yaddamaMdu), it doesn’t mean it is on top (koMchamai uMDadaa).

Commentary:
True greatness or leadership cannot be claimed by mere position or appearance. Being slightly ahead or in an elevated place doesn't automatically make one superior. It is inner worth, wisdom, and right conduct that determine true leadership and value—not superficial advantage or temporary placement.

ਮਨਸੁਲੋਨੁਨ੍ਨ ਮਰ੍ਮਮਂਤ ਏਰਿਗਿ
ਸ੍ਥਿਰਮੁ ਚੇਸਿ ਆਤ੍ਮ ਤੇਟਪਰਿਚਿ
ਘਟਮੁ ਨਿਲ੍ਪਵਲਯੁ, ਘਨਤਲਿਂਕੇਟਿਕਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿ ਰਾਮਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 116 ॥

Meaning:
To realize the deepest truths hidden within one’s own mind (manasulOnunna marmamaMta erigi), one must stabilize the mind (sthiramu chEsi) and clearly recognize the Self (aatma tETaparichi). Only then can the vessel—that is, the body or mind (GaTamu)—be properly aligned, and true realization of the supreme (GanataliMkETiki) becomes possible.

Commentary:
Inner clarity and self-realization are not attained through external rituals or superficial knowledge. Only by understanding the subtle truths of the mind and establishing mental steadiness can one truly align with the higher Self. This calls for inner discipline, reflection, and quiet observation to recognize the divine essence within.

ਕਦਲਨੀਯਕੁਂਡ ਗਟ੍ਟਿਗਾ ਲਿਂਗਂਬੁ
ਕਟ੍ਟਿਵੇਯਨੇਮਿ ਘਨਤ ਕਲੁਗੁ
ਭਾਵਮਂਦੁ ਸ਼ਿਵੁਨਿ ਭਾਵਿਂਚਿ ਕਾਨਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 117 ॥

Meaning:
To realize the deepest truths hidden within one’s own mind (manasulOnunna marmamaMta erigi), one must stabilize the mind (sthiramu chEsi) and clearly recognize the Self (aatma tETaparichi). Only then can the vessel—that is, the body or mind (GaTamu)—be properly aligned, and true realization of the supreme (GanataliMkETiki) becomes possible.

Commentary:
Inner clarity and self-realization are not attained through external rituals or superficial knowledge. Only by understanding the subtle truths of the mind and establishing mental steadiness can one truly align with the higher Self. This calls for inner discipline, reflection, and quiet observation to recognize the divine essence within.

ਮੇਕ ਜਂਕਬੇਟ੍ਟਿਮੇਲਗੁਚੁ ਮਂਦਲੋ
ਬ੍ਰਮਨਿ ਤਿਰੁਗੁ ਗੋਲ੍ਲ ਪਗਿਦਿਗਾਨੁ
ਦੇਵੁਨੇਰੁਗਕ ਪਰਦਵੇਤਲ ਦਲਚੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 118 ॥

Meaning:
A shepherd who loses his goat in the hills (mEka jaMkabeTTi melaguchu maMdalO) roams around in confusion (bramani tirugu golla), not knowing where to go. Similarly, one who doesn't know the true nature of the Divine (dEvunerugaka) ends up worshipping all sorts of external deities and symbols (paradavEtala dalachu) without understanding their essence.

Commentary:
Without clarity of spiritual understanding, people often run behind countless external rituals and deities, mistaking them for the ultimate goal. Just as a shepherd needs direction to find his lost goat, a seeker needs discernment (viveka) to recognize the one Truth behind all names and forms. Only then can spiritual practice become focused and meaningful rather than scattered and confused.

ਤਨ ਕੁਲ ਗੋਤ੍ਰਮੁ ਲਾਕ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਤਿ
ਤਨ ਸਂਪਦ ਕਲਿਮਿ ਬਲਿਮਿ ਤਨਕੇਲਨਯਾ?
ਤਨ ਵੇਂਟਰਾਵੁ ਨਿਜਮਿਦਿ
ਤਨ ਸਤ੍ਯਮੇ ਤੋਡੁਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਤਨਤੋ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 119 ॥

Meaning:
A shepherd who loses his goat in the hills (mEka jaMkabeTTi melaguchu maMdalO) roams around in confusion (bramani tirugu golla), not knowing where to go. Similarly, one who doesn't know the true nature of the Divine (dEvunerugaka) ends up worshipping all sorts of external deities and symbols (paradavEtala dalachu) without understanding their essence.

Commentary:
Without clarity of spiritual understanding, people often run behind countless external rituals and deities, mistaking them for the ultimate goal. Just as a shepherd needs direction to find his lost goat, a seeker needs discernment (viveka) to recognize the one Truth behind all names and forms. Only then can spiritual practice become focused and meaningful rather than scattered and confused.

ਕਲਿਮਿਗਲ੍ਗਨੇਮਿ ਕਰੁਣ ਲੇਕੁਂਡਿਨ
ਕਲਿਮਿ ਤਗੁਨੇ ਦੁਸ਼੍ਟਕਰ੍ਮੁਲਕੁਨੁ
ਤੇਨੇਗੂਰ੍ਪਨੀਗ ਤੇਰੁਵੁਨ ਬੋਵਦਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 120 ॥

Meaning:
What is the use (kalimigalganEmi) of having great wealth (kalimi) if one lacks compassion (karuNa lEkuMDina)? Even with riches, if a person commits cruel and unrighteous acts (duShTakarmulakunu), that wealth only leads them towards destruction (teruvuna bOvadaa), like a sharp-edged sword pointed at oneself.

Commentary:
Wealth without compassion can be dangerous—not only to others but also to oneself. Material success has value only when guided by kindness and righteousness. When one uses resources to harm, exploit, or ignore the suffering of others, that very wealth becomes a path to ruin. True prosperity lies in using one’s blessings to uplift and not degrade.

ਏਂਡਿਨ ਮਾਨੋਕਟਡਵਿਨਿ
ਮਂਡਿਨ ਨਂਦਗ੍ਨਿ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਯੂਡ੍ਚੁਨੁ ਚੇਟ੍ਲਨ੍
ਦਂਡਿਗਲ ਵਂਸ਼ਮੇਲ੍ਲਨੁ
ਚਂਡਾਲੁਂਡੋਕਡੁ ਪੁਟ੍ਟਿ ਚਦੁਵੁਨੁ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 121 ॥

Meaning:
A single spark (eMDina maanokaTaDavini) can ignite a blazing forest fire (maMDina naMdagni). Similarly, even in a lineage of great warriors (daMDigala vaMSamellanu), one chaMDaaluDu—a person considered low-born or from an unlikely background—can arise and excel in chaduvu, or education and wisdom.

Commentary:
Greatness does not depend on birth, lineage, or background. Just as a small spark can cause a mighty blaze, a person from humble origins can rise through knowledge and virtue. Dismissing someone based on their birth or social status is ignorance; true respect lies in recognizing inner fire, learning, and effort. Society thrives when merit is valued over pedigree.

ਕਨੁਲੁ ਪੋਵੁਵਾਡੁ ਕਾਲ਼੍ਲੁ ਪੋਯਿਨਵਾਡੁ
ਉਭਯੁਲਰਯੁਗੂਡਿ ਯੁਂਡਿਨਟ੍ਲੁ
ਪੇਦ ਪੇਦ ਗੂਡਿ ਪੇਨਗੋਨਿ ਯੁਂਡੁਨੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮਾ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 122 ॥

Meaning:
A blind person (kanulu pOvuvaaDu) and a lame one (kaaLlu pOyinavaaDu)—each lacking a vital ability—can still achieve progress when they join forces (ubhayularayugooDi yuMDinaTlu). Likewise, even the poorest of the poor (pEda pEda gooDi) can rise and live with dignity (penagoni yuMDunu) through unity and mutual support.

Commentary:
When individuals join hands, sharing strengths and compensating for each other's limitations, even the most disadvantaged can thrive. Collaboration, empathy, and mutual aid are powerful tools for progress. No one is truly weak when they stand together with others in solidarity and shared purpose.

ਮਾਟਲਾਡੁ ਗਲ੍ਗੁ ਮਰ੍ਮਮੁਲੇਰਿਗਿਨ
ਪਿਨ੍ਨਪੇਦ੍ਦਤਨਮੁ ਲੇਨ੍ਨਵਲਦੁ
ਪਿਨ੍ਨਚੇਤਿ ਦਿਵ੍ਵੇ ਪੇਦ੍ਦਗਾ ਵੇਲਗਦਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਧਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 123 ॥

Meaning:
One who can speak wisely (maaTalaaDu galgu) and understands deeper truths (marmamulerigina) need not be judged by age or seniority (pinnapeddatanamu lennavaladu). After all, doesn’t a lamp held in the hand of a child (pinnachEti divve) shine just as brightly as any other, regardless of who holds it?

Commentary:
Wisdom and insight do not always come with age. Even someone young or seemingly inexperienced may possess clarity and depth. Judging value based only on age or position blinds us to the brilliance that can come from any source. Just as light has its own radiance no matter who carries it, true understanding should be recognized wherever it appears.

ਕੋਂਡਮੁਚ੍ਚੁ ਪੇਂਡ੍ਲਿਕਿ ਕੋਤਿ ਪੇਰਂਟਾਲੁ
ਮੋਂਡਿ ਵਾਨਿ ਹਿਤੁਡੁ ਬਂਡਵਾਡੁ
ਦੁਂਡਗੀਡੁਨਕੁਨੁ ਕੋਂਡੇਡੁ ਦਲ਼ਵਾਯਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮਾ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 124 ॥

Meaning:
A foolish man (moMDi vaani) may boast of arranging grand festivities on a hilltop wedding (koMDamuchchu peMDliki) with countless names and extravagance (kOti pEraMTaalu), but a truly wise person (hituDu) stays grounded and humble like a rock (baMDavaaDu). Just as a shapeless lump (duMDageeDu) cannot become a hill, one without inner maturity cannot attain greatness, no matter the show.

Commentary:
True worth is not in appearances or grand claims but in strength of character and grounded wisdom. Loud talk and pretentious displays cannot substitute genuine substance. Maturity, like a solid hill, comes from within, not from shallow gestures. Let actions reflect inner stability rather than superficial grandeur.

ਝੁਸ਼ਮੁ ਨੀਰੁ ਵੇਡਲ ਜਚ੍ਚੁਟੇ ਸਿਦ੍ਧਮੁ
ਨੀਟਨੁਂਡਨੇਨਿ ਨਿਕ੍ਕਿਪਡੁਨੁ
ਅਂਡਤੋਲੁਗੁ ਨੇਡਲ ਨਂਦਰ ਪਨਿ ਅਟ੍ਲੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿ ਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 125 ॥

Meaning:
Just as pure water (ਝੁਸ਼ਮੁ ਨੀਰੁ) becomes scalding hot when placed over fire (ਵੇਡਲ ਜਚ੍ਚੁਟੇ), but loses its heat when removed from it (ਨੀਟਨੁਂਡਨੇਨਿ), similarly, the influence or brilliance of someone who shines only in the presence of others (ਅਂਡਤੋਲੁਗੁ ਨੇਡਲ) fades when that association ends (ਨਂਦਰ ਪਨਿ ਅਟ੍ਲੇ).

Commentary:
Borrowed strength or second-hand knowledge may give temporary shine, but it doesn't last when the source is gone. It is important to develop one’s own understanding, values, and character rather than relying on the presence or influence of others to appear wise or powerful. True excellence radiates from within and is not dependent on external support.

ਤਲ੍ਲਿਯੇਡ੍ਵ ਵਿਨਕ ਤਨਯਾਲੁ ਵਗਚਿਨ
ਜਾਲਿਪਡੇਡੁ ਵਾਡੁ ਜਡੁਡੁ ਸੁਮ੍ਮਿ
ਤਾਰਤਮ੍ਯ ਮੇਰੁਗਨੇਰਨਿ ਪਸ਼ੁਵਦਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 126 ॥

Meaning:
One who cannot recognize the pain and affection of a mother (ਤਲ੍ਲਿਯੇਡ੍ਵ ਵਿਨਕ) even after giving birth to many children (ਤਨਯਾਲੁ ਵਗਚਿਨ), and remains indifferent or unemotional (ਜਾਲਿਪਡੇਡੁ ਵਾਡੁ ਜਡੁਡੁ ਸੁਮ੍ਮਿ), is no better than a beast that lacks the ability to discern emotional nuances and hierarchies (ਤਾਰਤਮ੍ਯ ਮੇਰੁਗਨੇਰਨਿ ਪਸ਼ੁਵਦਿ).

Commentary:
Recognizing and respecting the sacrifices, love, and emotional bonds of our parents—especially the mother—is a mark of true humanity. Someone who is emotionally disconnected from such sacred relationships lives a dull and senseless life, much like an animal. Cultivating empathy, gratitude, and emotional intelligence toward those who nurture and care for us is essential for becoming a complete and wise individual.

ਪਰੁਲਮੇਲੁ ਚੂਸਿ ਪਲੁਕਾਕਿ ਵਲੇ
ਵਟ੍ਟਿਮਾਟਲਾਡੁ ਵਾਡੁ ਅਧਮੁਡੁ
ਅਟ੍ਟਿਵਾਨਿ ਬਤੁਕੁਟਦਿ ਏਲ ਮਂਟਿਕਾ?
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 127 ॥

Meaning:
One who speaks only to flatter those in power or status (ਪਰੁਲਮੇਲੁ ਚੂਸਿ ਪਲੁਕਾਕਿ ਵਲੇ) and always adjusts his words to please others without sincerity (ਵਟ੍ਟਿਮਾਟਲਾਡੁ ਵਾਡੁ), such a person is lowly and dishonorable (ਅਧਮੁਡੁ). How can a meaningful or dignified life come from someone like that? (ਅਟ੍ਟਿਵਾਨਿ ਬਤੁਕੁਟਦਿ ਏਲ ਮਂਟਿਕਾ?)

Commentary:
True character is revealed in how one speaks and behaves, especially when there is no advantage to be gained. Flattery born of selfishness reduces personal dignity and trust. One must speak with integrity and courage, not just to please or manipulate others. A life built on sycophancy lacks substance and respect.

ਗਂਗਿ ਗੋਵੁਪਾਲੁ ਗਰਿਟਡੈਨਨੁ ਚਾਲੁ
ਕਡਵੇਡੈਨਨੁ ਨੇਮਿ ਖਰਮੁਪਾਲੁ
ਭਕ੍ਤਿਕਲ੍ਗੁਕੂਡੁ ਪਟ੍ਟੇਡੈਨਨੁ ਚਾਲੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 128 ॥

Meaning:
Even if one tends cows for a living (ਗਂਗਿ ਗੋਵੁਪਾਲੁ ਗਰਿਟਡੈਨਨੁ ਚਾਲੁ), or ends up as a servant in someone’s house (ਕਡਵੇਡੈਨਨੁ), or bears the burdens of hard labor (ਨੇਮਿ ਖਰਮੁਪਾਲੁ), all that is enough and worthy—if one possesses true devotion (ਭਕ੍ਤਿਕਲ੍ਗੁਕੂਡੁ). Even a lowly position is noble when adorned with genuine faith.

Commentary:
What matters most is not our status, profession, or wealth, but the sincerity and devotion in our heart. Humble work done with integrity and spiritual intent holds more value than prestigious positions lacking meaning. Fulfillment and dignity arise not from outer roles but from inner devotion and purpose.

ਚਿਕ੍ਕਿਯੁਨ੍ਨਵੇਲ਼ ਸਿਂਹਂਬੁਨੈਨਨੁ
ਬਕ੍ਕ ਕੁਕ੍ਕਯੈਨਾ ਬਾਧਸੇਯੁ
ਬਲਿਮਿਲੇਨਿ ਵੇਲ਼ ਪਂਤਮੁਲੁ ਚੇਲ੍ਲਵੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 129 ॥

Meaning:
When one is trapped or constrained (ਚਿਕ੍ਕਿਯੁਨ੍ਨਵੇਲ਼), even a lion becomes helpless. On the other hand, when conditions are favorable, even a weak dog (ਬਕ੍ਕ ਕੁਕ੍ਕਯੈਨਾ) can cause harm. Without strength or the right circumstances (ਬਲਿਮਿਲੇਨਿ ਵੇਲ਼), even rightful claims or inheritance (ਪਂਤਮੁਲੁ) cannot be secured.

Commentary:
Success is not solely determined by one's capability or merit but also by timing, support, and circumstances. Even the most talented individual can feel powerless when caught in unfavorable situations, while the undeserving may thrive due to temporary advantage. Recognizing this truth encourages humility during triumph and resilience during setbacks.

ਪਨਸਤੋਨਲਕਨ੍ਨ ਪਂਚਦਾਰਲਕਨ੍ਨ
ਜੁਂਟਿਤੇਨੇਕਨ੍ਨ ਜੁਨ੍ਨੁਕਨ੍ਨ
ਚੇਰੂਕੁ ਰਸਮੁਕਨ੍ਨ ਚੇਲੁਲ ਮਾਟਲੇ ਤੀਪਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 130 ॥

Meaning:
The sweetness of affectionate words from loved ones surpasses even the taste of ਪਨਸ ਤੋਣਲ (jackfruit pods), ਪਂਚਦਾਰਲ (five types of sugar delicacies), ਜੁਂਟਿਤੇਨੇ (pure honey), and ਜੁਨ੍ਨੁ (colostrum pudding). No worldly delicacy compares to the ਰਸਮੁ (essence) found in heartfelt ਚੇਲੁਲ ਮਾਟਲੁ (words of affection from companions).

Commentary:
True emotional nourishment comes not from food but from love, care, and the warmth of kind words. A single expression of genuine affection can uplift the heart more than any physical indulgence. This reminds us to value emotional connections over material pleasures and to speak with kindness to nurture the relationships that bring true joy.

ਨਿਂਡੁਨਦੁਲੁ ਪਾਰੁ ਨਿਲਚਿ ਗਂਭੀਰਮੈ
ਵੇਰੁਰਿਵਾਗੁ ਪਾਰੂ ਵੇਗਬੋਰ੍ਲਿ
ਅਲ੍ਪੁਡਾਡੁਰੀਤਿ ਨਧਿਕੁਂਡੁ ਨਾਡੁਨਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 131 ॥

Meaning:
A ਨਿਂਡੁ ਨਦੁਲੁ (full river) flows steadily and with ਗਂਭੀਰਮ੍ (dignity), while a ਵੇਰੁਰਿਵਾਗੁ (shallow stream) rushes noisily. In the same way, people of depth and wisdom remain calm and composed, whereas shallow-minded individuals are restless and loud in their behavior.

Commentary:
Those who possess true knowledge or strength do not need to be boastful or impatient. Inner richness shows itself in patience, humility, and steady action. By practicing measured speech, composed behavior, and avoiding needless showiness, one can earn quiet respect and influence without noise or display.

ਉਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿਕੂਰ ਯੋਪ੍ਪਦੁ ਰੁਚੁਲਕੁ
ਪਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿ ਤਿਂਡਿ ਫਲਮੁਲੇਦੁ
ਅਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਨਿਵਾਡੇ ਯਧਿਕ ਸਂਪਨ੍ਨੁਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 132 ॥

Meaning:
A dish without ਉਪ੍ਪੁ (salt) cannot please the taste buds, and food without ਪਪ੍ਪੁ (lentils) has no true nourishment. Likewise, a person free from ਅਪ੍ਪੁ (debt) is truly wealthy, regardless of how much material possession he has.

Commentary:
Real prosperity is not measured by the amount of money or property one owns, but by the freedom from burdens that drain peace of mind. Living within one’s means, avoiding unnecessary loans, and maintaining financial discipline ensures lasting stability and contentment, even with moderate income.

ਪਸੁਲ ਵਨ੍ਨੇ ਵੇਰੁ ਪਾਲੇਲ੍ਲ ਓਕ੍ਕਟਿ
ਪੁਸ਼੍ਪਜਾਤਿ ਵੇਰੁ ਪੂਜ ਓਕਟਿ
ਦਰ੍ਸ਼ਨਂਬੁਲਾਰੁ ਦੈਵਂਬੁ ਓਕ੍ਕਟਿ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 133 ॥

Meaning:
Cows may differ in color, yet their milk is the same; flowers may vary in type, yet they are all used in pooja; places of worship may be many, yet the divine is one. This highlights the essential unity behind outward differences.

Commentary:
Recognizing the single ਦੈਵਂਬੁ behind diverse forms fosters harmony and respect among people of different beliefs and traditions. By looking beyond external distinctions and focusing on the shared essence, it becomes easier to build mutual understanding and reduce conflicts born from superficial differences.

ਚਂਪਦਗਿਨ ਸ਼ਤ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਵੁ ਤਨਚੇਤ
ਚਿਕ੍ਕੇਨੇਨਿ ਕੀਡੁ ਚੇਯਰਾਦੁ
ਪੋਸਗ ਮੇਲੁ ਚੇਸਿ ਪੋਮ੍ਮਨੁਟੇ ਮੇਲੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 134 ॥

Meaning:
Killing an enemy with one’s own hand is not the highest act of valor; causing harm without just cause is never right. Offering help to an adversary and inspiring them towards goodness is a far greater virtue, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
True strength lies not in revenge but in transforming hostility into harmony. By showing compassion even to those who oppose us and choosing to uplift rather than destroy, we cultivate moral courage and create the possibility for lasting peace.

ਆਪਦਗਲ ਵੇਲ਼ ਅਰਸਿ ਬਂਧੁਵੁ ਜੂਡੁ
ਭਯਮੁ ਵੇਲ਼ ਜੂਡੁ ਬਂਟੁਤਨਮੁ
ਪੇਦਵੇਲ਼ ਜੂਡੁ ਪੇਂਡ੍ਲਾਮੁ ਗੁਣਮੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 135 ॥

Meaning:
A true relative is known in times of danger, genuine friendship is proven in moments of fear, and the virtue of a wife is revealed when poverty strikes, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Real bonds and qualities are not measured in comfort but in hardship. Standing by loved ones during crises, supporting friends when they are vulnerable, and remaining loyal in adversity are marks of integrity that deepen trust and relationships.

ਉਪ੍ਪੁ ਕਪ੍ਪੁਰਂਬੁ ਓਕ੍ਕ ਪੋਲਿਕਨੁਂਡੁ
ਚੂਡ ਚੂਡ ਰੁਚੁਲ ਜਾਡ ਵੇਰੁ
ਪੁਰੁਸ਼ੁਲਂਦੁ ਪੁਣ੍ਯ ਪੁਰੁਸ਼ੁਲੁ ਵੇਰਯ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 136 ॥

Meaning:
Just as salt and camphor may look similar but differ greatly in taste and fragrance, among people too, outward appearances can be deceiving—there are virtuous individuals and there are others who merely seem so, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Judging a person solely by their looks, speech, or outward manner can lead to false conclusions. True worth is revealed through one’s actions, values, and consistency over time. Developing discernment helps in choosing trustworthy companions and avoiding those who only appear virtuous.

ਆਤ੍ਮ ਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਦਿ ਲੇਨਿ ਯਾਚਾਰਮਦਿਯੇਲ
ਭਾਂਡਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਦਿ ਲੇਨਿ ਪਾਕ ਮੇਲ
ਚਿਤ੍ਤਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਦਿਲੇਨਿ ਸ਼ਿਵਪੂਜਲੇਲਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 137 ॥

Meaning:
When there is no ਆਤ੍ਮ ਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਦਿ (inner purity), any ਯਾਚਾਰਮ੍ (ritual or religious conduct) becomes meaningless. Just as cooking in a pot without ਭਾਂਡਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਦਿ (cleanliness of the vessel) ruins the food, performing ਸ਼ਿਵਪੂਜ without ਚਿਤ੍ਤਸ਼ੁਦ੍ਧਿ (purity of mind) holds no true value, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
True spiritual practice starts from within. Without cleansing the mind of jealousy, ego, and greed, even the grandest acts of worship lose their essence. Before engaging in any prayer or ritual, one must cultivate sincerity, humility, and compassion so that actions spring from genuine devotion rather than mechanical habit. Inner purity transforms rituals into meaningful acts that uplift both oneself and others.

ਯਿਨੁਮੁ ਵਿਰਗਨੇਨਿ ਯਿਨੁਮੂਰੁ ਮੁਮ੍ਮਾਰੁ
ਕਾਚਿਯੇਤਕਵਚ੍ਚੁ ਗ੍ਰਮਮੁ ਗਾਨੁ
ਮਨਸੁ ਵਿਰਿਗੇਨੇਨਿ ਮਰਿ ਚੇਰ੍ਚਰਾਦਯਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 138 ॥

Meaning:
Just as ਯਿਨੁਮੁ (iron) that does not break can be heated and reshaped multiple times, but cannot be used to make fine ਗ੍ਰਮਮੁ (delicate ornaments), a ਮਨਸੁ (mind) that has once broken in trust or loyalty cannot be truly joined back together, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Trust, once shattered, is extremely difficult to restore to its original wholeness. Relationships and bonds thrive on integrity, and even a single act of betrayal can leave lasting cracks. Careful speech, honest action, and respect for others’ feelings help preserve trust, making relationships stronger and more enduring.

ਕੁਂਡ ਕੁਂਭਮਨ੍ਨ ਕੋਂਡ ਪਰ੍ਵਤਮਨ੍ਨ
ਨੁਪ੍ਪੁ ਲਵਣਮਨ੍ਨ ਨੋਕਟਿ ਕਾਦੇ
ਭਾਸ਼ ਲਿਟ੍ਟੇ ਵੇਰੁ ਪਰਤਤ੍ਵਮੋਕਟੇ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 139 ॥

Meaning:
Whether one calls it ਕੁਂਡ or ਕੁਂਭਮ੍ (pot), ਕੋਂਡ or ਪਰ੍ਵਤਮ੍ (mountain), ਨੁਪ੍ਪੁ or ਲਵਣਮ੍ (salt), they are not different in essence — only the names vary. In the same way, languages and expressions may differ, but the underlying ਪਰਤਤ੍ਵਮ੍ (ultimate truth) remains one, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Different words, cultures, or traditions should not be mistaken as divisions in truth. The essence of goodness, wisdom, and the divine is beyond labels. Recognizing this unity helps overcome prejudice, fosters respect for diversity, and builds harmony in relationships and society.

ਅਨਗ ਨਨਗ ਰਾਗ ਮਤਿਸ਼ ਯਿਲ੍ਲੁਚੁਨੁਂਡੁ
ਦਿਨਗ ਦਿਨਗ ਵੇਮੁ ਤਿਯ੍ਯਨੁਂਡੁ
ਸਾਧਨਮੁਨ ਪਨੁਲੁ ਸਮਕੂਰੁ ਧਰਲੋਨ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 140 ॥

Meaning:
Just as a tree steadily grows and bears sweeter fruit day by day, and as a sugarcane becomes sweeter with time, a person’s actions and character ripen and improve through sincere ਸਾਧਨਮੁਨ (practice and effort). Good deeds performed with dedication eventually bring completeness and value to life, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Consistent effort and inner refinement are key to meaningful progress. Like a fruit or sugarcane that matures slowly, virtues and skills develop gradually through disciplined practice. Patience, persistence, and dedication ensure that one’s work, relationships, and inner growth become sweeter and more fulfilling over time.

ਚੇਪ੍ਪੁਲੋਨਿ ਰਾਯਿ ਚੇਵਿਲੋਨਿ ਜੋਰੀਗ
ਕਂਟਿਲੋਨਿ ਨਲੁਸੁ ਕਾਲਿ ਮੁਲ੍ਲੁ
ਇਂਟਿਲੋਨਿ ਪੋਰੁ ਨਿਂਤਿਂਤ ਗਾਦਯਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 141 ॥

Meaning:
A stone in the shoe, a buzzing sound in the ear, a grain of sand in the eye, or a thorn in the foot — all cause constant irritation and pain until removed. In the same way, conflicts and disharmony within the household make living there unbearable, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Small but unresolved issues can cause great discomfort and spoil peace of mind, just as minor physical irritants can disturb the whole body. Addressing misunderstandings, removing grudges, and fostering harmony at home ensures a peaceful environment where everyone can live without constant mental strain.

ਤਪ੍ਪੁ ਲੇਨ੍ਨੁਵਾਰੁ ਤਂਡੋਪ ਤਂਡਂਬੁ
ਲੁਰ੍ਵਿ ਜਨੁਲਕੇਲ੍ਲ ਨੁਂਡੁ ਤਪ੍ਪੁ
ਤਪ੍ਪੁ ਲੇਨ੍ਨੁਵਾਰੁ ਤਮ ਤਪ੍ਪੁਲੇਰੁਗਰੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 142 ॥

Meaning:
Those who always find faults in others carry such criticism everywhere, in every group they join. They overlook their own flaws and fail to realize that they too have shortcomings, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Constant fault-finding not only strains relationships but also blinds one to self-improvement. Cultivating self-awareness, acknowledging personal mistakes, and focusing on solutions instead of criticism builds mutual respect and harmony in interactions.

ਮਿਰਪ ਗਿਂਜ ਚੂਡ ਮੀਦ ਨਲ੍ਲਗਨੁਂਡੁ
ਕੋਰਿਕਿ ਜੂਡਲੋਨ ਜੁਰੁਕੁਮਨੁਨੁ
ਸਜ੍ਜਨੁ ਲਗੁ ਵਾਰਿ ਸਾਰ ਮਿਟ੍ਲੁਂਡੁ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 143 ॥

Meaning:
A chili seed looks black on the outside but holds intense heat within; similarly, truly good people may appear simple or unremarkable outwardly, but their inner nature is filled with strength, virtue, and moral warmth, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
Judging worth based only on outer appearance often leads to misjudgment. Real value lies in a person’s character, principles, and actions, which may be hidden beneath a humble exterior. Taking time to understand people deeply helps in recognizing and respecting true goodness.

ਮੇਡਿਪਂਡੁ ਚੂਡ ਮੇਲਿਮੈ ਯੁਂਡੁਨੁ
ਪੋਟ੍ਟਵਿਚ੍ਚਿ ਚੂਡ ਪੁਰੁਗੁਲੁਂਡੁ
ਪਿਰਿਕਿਵਾਨਿ ਮਦਿਨਿ ਬਿਂਕਮੀਲਾਗੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 144 ॥

Meaning:
A ਮੇਡਿਪਂਡੁ may appear smooth and fine on the outside, but when split open, it can be filled with worms. In the same way, the mind of a ਪਿਰਿਕਿਵਾਨਿ (coward) may seem normal outwardly but is rotten within, lacking courage and strength, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
True worth is measured by inner strength and integrity, not by outward appearance. Building courage, self-reliance, and moral firmness ensures that one’s character remains sound and trustworthy, unaffected by external pretence.

ਵੇਰੁ ਪੁਰੁਗੁ ਚੇਰਿ ਵ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਕ੍ਸ਼ਂਬੁ ਜੇਰੁਚੁਨੁ
ਚੀਡਪੁਰੁਗੁ ਚੇਰਿ ਚੇਟ੍ਟੁ ਜੇਰਚੁ
ਕੁਤ੍ਸਿਤੁਂਡੁ ਚੇਰਿ ਗੁਣਵਂਤੁ ਜੇਰਚੁਰਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 145 ॥

Meaning:
When a tree is affected by root-boring insects, it decays from below; when infested by leaf-eating pests, it withers from above. Likewise, the company of corrupt people destroys even a ਗੁਣਵਂਤੁ (virtuous person), says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
The influence of bad association can gradually erode even the strongest virtues. Choosing companions wisely and avoiding those whose values are harmful is essential to preserving one’s moral strength and integrity.

ਵੇਸ਼ਭਾਸ਼ ਲੇਰਿਗਿ ਕਾਸ਼ਯਵਸ੍ਤ੍ਰਮੁਲ੍
ਗਟ੍ਟਗਾਨੇ ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ ਗਲੁਗਬੋਦੁ
ਤਲਲੁ ਬੋਡੁਲ੍ਰੁਰੁਇਨ ਤਲਪੁਲੂ ਬੋਡੂਲਾ
ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵਿਨੁਰ ਵੇਮ! ॥ 146 ॥

Meaning:
Simply wearing ਕਾਸ਼ਯਵਸ੍ਤ੍ਰਮੁਲ੍ (ochre robes) and speaking in a spiritual ਭਾਸ਼ (language) does not grant ਮੁਕ੍ਤਿ (liberation). If the mind remains burdened with desires and impurities, it is no different from a head without wisdom — outward form means little without inner transformation, says ਵਿਸ਼੍ਵਦਾਭਿਰਾਮ ਵੇਮ.

Commentary:
True spiritual progress comes from inner purity, discipline, and clarity of thought, not just from symbolic dress or speech. External identity should reflect genuine inner change, reminding us to focus on cleansing our thoughts and intentions rather than seeking recognition through appearance.




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