Gitanjali · Chapter
LXXXVIII explained
The poet addresses the deity of a ruined temple, where worship has ceased and the divine presence is neglected.
What happens
The poet addresses the deity of a ruined temple, where worship has ceased and the divine presence is neglected. The old worshipper returns with longing, but offerings are no longer made. The deity remains in deathless neglect while new images are built and forgotten.
Themes in this chapter
The Pain of Separation and Longing
The old worshipper wanders with longing and hunger in his heart for the deity's favor.
Death and Immortality
The deity remains in 'deathless neglect' while other images are carried to oblivion.
Characters to notice
- The Poet
The speaker who addresses the deity and describes the scene of neglect.
- The Divine
The deity of the ruined temple, unworshipped and neglected.
Key passages
“Deity of the ruined temple! The broken strings of Vina sing no more your praise.”
God of the abandoned temple, the broken instrument no longer plays songs in your honor.
Opening lament for the loss of worship.
“Only the deity of the ruined temple remains unworshipped in deathless neglect.”
Only the god of the ruined temple endures, forever ignored yet never dying.
Final contrast between transient human creations and enduring divine neglect.