Eulogy to Sarasvatī
The Song of the Cuckoo
A Eulogy to Sarasvatī
Radiant as a lotus upon a lotus throne,
Enchanting every mind, beloved in every heart,
O Goddess of exquisite form and youthful glow,
Today, I implore you lend me your vīṇā.
The Forefather of the Universe (Brahmā) is your sire,
Wise Mañjuśrī, your steadfast companion.
All beings across the three realms are your subjects.
Who but you reigns as sovereign among the wise?
Your upper body adorned with luscious, braided black hair,
Your face a blooming lotus, your eyes deep sapphire pools.
Endowed with the brilliance of fresh, radiant youth,
Who else but you is the most beautiful of all beauties?
Your countenance aglow with a gentle, celestial smile,
Soft hands like tender willow branches swaying in breeze.
When you stir the thousand-stringed celestial lute,
Who but you pours nectar into the ears of the world?
From the wisdom holders of the heaven above
To scholars of rhetoric in the realms below,
You are the beloved secret held in every heart.
Who but you roams the palace of the awakened mind?
Even the touch of a charming lover is like snake venom,
Sages steadfastly seek to be free of desire.
Yet even they, at the sight of your form, ignite in flames
Who but you could burn the firewood of the ascetic?
In the lotus lake of joy and mirthful minds,
You are the stamen unshaken and ever still.
This certainty, born of boundless compassion,
Renders even samādhi’s bliss pale by comparison.
Thus, I sing the hidden qualities of your threefold mysteries,
O Ocean-born Queen of Sacred Melody.
May unhindered wisdom and flawless recall
Shine like the moon in the mirror of my mind.
Though there are no words of joy to utter to you,
Neither shall I utter moans of sorrow.
Beyond both pleasure and pain, I will abide in contemplation.
May you protect the world and endow it with peace and happiness.
| Translated by Kelsang Lhamo and edited by Lama Jabb, 2025. First published on Rubin Museum website. Reproduced with author's permission.
Version: 1.0-20250730
