మనసులేని వాని మంత్రంబు లేలయా

manasuleni vani mantrambu lelaya

Translation

Why bother with the chants of one whose heart is not in it?

Meaning

This expression emphasizes that any prayer, ritual, or work performed without sincerity or a focused mind is useless. It is used to point out that devotion or effort is meaningless if it lacks genuine intent or concentration.

Related Phrases

An unhappy match.

This expression refers to a union or marriage entered into without the consent or emotional willingness of the individuals involved. It is used to describe a forced relationship or a task undertaken without any genuine interest or passion.

There is no salvation greater than silence.

This expression emphasizes that silence is the highest form of peace and spiritual liberation. It is often used to suggest that keeping quiet is better than engaging in unnecessary arguments or that true wisdom is found in silence.

A king without courage, a minister without judgment.

This proverb describes a failing or ineffective leadership system. It highlights that a leader who lacks the bravery to take risks or stand firm, paired with an advisor who lacks strategic thinking or foresight, will inevitably lead to the downfall of a kingdom or an organization.

Fondling without a child, a flood without rain.

This proverb is used to describe something that is meaningless, artificial, or lacks a foundation. Just as a flood cannot exist without rain and kissing has no purpose without a child (in a parental context), an action or situation without its core essence or cause is considered hollow or futile.

To the great person who has mastered their mind, why are there any more mantras or rituals?

This expression suggests that self-control and mental mastery are the ultimate spiritual achievements. It implies that for someone who has absolute control over their thoughts and desires, external rituals, religious chants, or complex ceremonies become unnecessary as they have already reached the highest state of consciousness.

Why engage in empty bargaining when there is no intention of giving or serving?

This proverb is used to criticize people who talk a lot or make grand promises without any intention of actually helping or providing anything. It highlights the pointlessness of empty negotiations or discussions (vatti beramu) that do not result in a tangible outcome or act of generosity (petti poyadam).

There is no medicine for the pain in the heart

This expression refers to emotional or mental suffering that cannot be cured by physical medication. It is used to describe deep sorrow, psychological distress, or the pain of a broken heart which requires time, change, or emotional healing rather than a physician's prescription.

What does a woman without a husband want with a midwife ?

This proverb is used to highlight the absurdity of preparing for an outcome that is impossible or irrelevant due to the absence of the primary cause. Just as a woman without a husband cannot become pregnant and thus doesn't need a midwife, one shouldn't waste resources or worry about processes for a situation that hasn't even begun or cannot occur.

Philosophies are six, but God is one.

This expression highlights the concept of 'unity in diversity' within spiritual paths. It refers to the Shat-Darshanas (six schools of Indian philosophy) and explains that while there may be various methods, perspectives, or intellectual paths to reach the divine, the ultimate truth or God remains a single entity. It is used to promote religious tolerance and philosophical harmony.

A mantra without Omkara, wisdom without authority

This expression refers to things that are incomplete or ineffective despite their inherent quality. Just as a mantra is considered spiritually powerless without the 'Om' sound, wisdom or talent is often seen as ineffective or useless in a social or professional context if the person possessing it lacks the authority or position to implement it.