Man's Extremity

Ah, then, O God, the efforts all are vain
By which I've sought thy blessed feet to gain.

First there was loving faith, but faith I've none;
Nowise my restless soul can I restrain.

Then pious deeds, but no good will have I
For these; nor wealth to help the poor thereby;
I know not how to honour Brahman guests;
Alas! the springs of love in me are dry.

I cannot serve the guru or the saint;
Not mine to chant the name, with toil to faint,
Perform the sacred rites, renounce the world.
I cannot hold my senses in restraint.

My heart has never trod the pilgrim's way;
The vows I make I know not how to pay.

Therefore, I come, O God, to plead for grace,
I, worthy only of a servant's place.

No store of merit such an one requires.
My firm resolve is taken, Tuka says.