“Ignorance binds humanity to futile endeavors.”
This isn't one of Bhartrihari's verses. It is an idea from commentary on them. For his own words, see the verses we've referenced.
About the poet: Bhartrihari
Bhartrihari is the Sanskrit poet to whom the Shatakatraya is attributed: three collections of about 100 verses each, usually dated to around the 5th century CE. They cover worldly conduct (Niti), love (Shringara) and renunciation (Vairagya), often in a wry, sceptical voice.
More from Bhartrihari
- “Self-discipline leads to freedom.”
- “Meditation clears the mind of worldly distractions.”
- “Love for humanity aligns with divine will.”
- “The wise abandon fleeting desires for eternal bliss.”
- “Meditation brings the mind into harmony with the divine.”
- “Youth, beauty, and possessions all succumb to time.”