“Spiritual fulfillment is the true purpose of life.”
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
- “The pursuit of desires leads to endless suffering.”
- “Contentment makes a man rich, regardless of wealth.”
- “Knowledge frees the mind from the bondage of worldly pursuits.”
- “Ascetics renounce the noise of the world for the silence of wisdom.”
- “Self-discipline leads to freedom.”
- “Nature’s beauty reminds us of life’s impermanence.”