స్థూలము కనుగుడ్డు, సూక్ష్మము కనుపాప.

sthulamu kanuguddu, sukshmamu kanupapa.

Translation

The eye-ball is large, but the pupil is small.

Meaning

This expression highlights the difference between appearance and essence. While the eyeball is large and visible (the macro), the tiny pupil (the micro) is what actually enables sight. It is used to suggest that important or powerful things often reside in small, subtle details rather than in large, obvious forms.

Related Phrases

Subtlety lies within the zero; liberation lies within the subtle.

This spiritual proverb suggests that the entire universe (or truth) is contained within 'Sunna' (Nothingness/Zero/The Void). By understanding the micro-details or the subtle essence of existence, one can achieve spiritual liberation (Moksha). It is used to explain that profound truths are often found in the simplest or smallest things.

If the eyes are large, will the pupils also be large?

This proverb is used to explain that greatness or the size of a whole does not necessarily mean its core parts or subordinates will be equally large. It highlights that everything has its own natural limit and scale, and one should not expect the impossible or a direct proportionality in all matters.

Anger on the tip of the nose

This expression is used to describe someone who is short-tempered or gets angry very quickly and easily. It implies that their anger is always 'at the ready' right on their face.

In the chunam is the trick; in the Supreme Soul is salvation.

This philosophical expression suggests that the path to spiritual liberation (Moksha) is found by understanding the smallest, most subtle aspects of consciousness or the concept of 'nothingness' (Sunya). It is used to describe how grand truths are often hidden in the simplest or most minute details, and that true enlightenment comes from internalizing these subtle nuances rather than focusing on gross, material aspects.

Chunam is an indispensable accompaniment to betel leaf—The word Sûkshma signifies "ingenuity," "craft" and also "The Supreme Soul, the subtle and invisible spirit that pervades all existence," ( Wilson ) to know which is salvation. * Extrema gaudil luctus occupat.

Salvation in the simple/small

This expression refers to finding a simple solution to a complex problem or achieving a great result with minimal effort. It is often used when someone explains a complicated concept in a very simple, easy-to-understand way, or when a shortcut leads to the desired outcome.

The past is better than the future. "The good old times."

This expression is used to reflect on the past with nostalgia or to express skepticism about the future. It suggests that people often perceive the present or the unknown future as more difficult or uncertain compared to the 'good old days' they have already experienced.

In the zero lies the subtle, and in the subtle lies liberation.

This philosophical expression suggests that the entire universe and the path to spiritual liberation (Moksha) are contained within the 'Sunya' (zero/nothingness). It implies that by understanding the smallest, most subtle essence of existence, one can achieve ultimate enlightenment. It is often used to describe the profound nature of simplicity and the inner self.

The past is better than the future to come.

This proverb expresses nostalgia and the human tendency to believe that 'the good old days' were superior to the present or the uncertain future. It is often used when people are dissatisfied with current circumstances or are apprehensive about upcoming changes, suggesting that what has passed was more comfortable, virtuous, or prosperous.

The eyeball is large (gross), but the pupil is subtle (fine).

This expression is used to highlight that while something may appear large and prominent, the most vital and powerful component is often something small and subtle. It signifies that value or functionality is not always proportionate to size, emphasizing depth over surface appearance.

Lust knows no time

This expression suggests that intense desire or lust does not care for timing, circumstances, or appropriateness. It is used to describe a state where a person's impulses override their judgment of when and where it is suitable to act.