'Words of power' is a monthly section of Hindu Voice UK, consisting of a series of quotations from Hindu sacred literature to help introduce the timeless wisdom contained within.

Reality and illusion

Fear Not. What is not real never was and never will be. What is real always was and cannot be destroyed. (Gita)

Worldly comfort is an illusion, No sooner you get it, it goes. I have chosen the Indestructible for my refuge. (Hymn by Mirabai)

Virtue

Of all virtues summed by ancient sages, the foremost are to share one's food and to protect all living creatures. (Tirukural)

Water is sufficient to cleanse the body, but truthfulness alone can purify the mind (Tirukural)

Truth beyond description

There the eye goes not, nor words, nor mind. We know not. We cannot understand how He can be explained. He is above the known, and He is above the unknown. Thus have we heard from the ancient sages who explained this truth to us. (Sama Veda, Kena Upanishad)

On Love

Love is the first-born, loftier than the Gods, the Fathers and men. You O Love, are the eldest of all, altogether mighty. To you we pay homage! In many forms of goodness, O Love, you show your face. Grant that these forms may penetrate our hearts. (Atharva Veda)