SAIVA-SIDDHANTA

"
"
shore
154 A CHAPTER FROM THE RURAL.
In this matchless verse," says Dr. Pope,
"
not a syllable could
spared ;
while almost every word is common and easy, yet is the very
fittest, and is used in its exact meaning. It is somewhat archaic ;
has a
fascinating air of mystery pleasantly exercises and amply rewards the
;
students ingenuity; seems dark at first, but once lit up, sparkles for ever.
infinite
"
<s<5K>rr
This
ocean.
suggests a metaphor : learning is a shoreless
"
Then comes the simple antithesis, * the learner s days are few. In
Tamil the use of the same root twice (in
.seuafl and &pu^ff) and again in
the third line (sfiuQw) imports an added charm.
Into these perfectly (to
be
Tamil ears) harmonious lines is compressed
a whole chapter
.
"
The subject of study
5<5\>o0
(
with a plural verb) is infinitely numer
ous ;
but the learner s days are few ;
and if it be calmly thought out, men
are liable to many diseases. [iSesifi,
natural infirmities or bonds that
enfeeble and restrict]. Youthful enthusiasm may lead men to anticipate
great and varried triumphs ;
calm reflection teaches them their natural
weakness. So, men should learn with discrimination (Q^^fr&fi^) examin
ing closely (^zniLi) things befitting (^J^LD, suit, satisfy, gladden them)
with intelligence,
like that of the bird (Qpitiisg}) (the semi divine Hamsa,
that drinks only the milk and leaves the water, when these mingled are
presented
to it ? "
The mind that knows with certitude what is (First-Cause) and
ponders well
Its thoughts on birth again to other life need not to dwell.
COMMENTARY.
This explains manana.
8. LS
When the folly of desiring birth departs, the soul can view
The exalted Home of The Good Being, this is wisdom true,