Kabir – Selected Verses from The English Writings of Rabindranath Tagore  Verses: 1, 2, 8, 12, 53, 69 Summary Explanation

Kabir – Selected Verses from The English Writings of Rabindranath Tagore (Ed. Sisir Kumar Das, Sahitya Akademi, 1994) Verses: 1, 2, 8, 12, 53, 69 Source Used, the Official Book

1. O servant, where dost thou seek Me?

O servant, where dost thou seek Me?

Lo! I am beside thee.

I am neither in temple nor in mosque:
I am neither in Kaaba nor in Kailash:

Neither am I in rites and ceremonies,
nor in Yoga and renunciation.

If thou art a true seeker, thou shalt at once see Me:
thou shalt meet Me in a moment of time.

Kabir says, ‘ O Sadhu! God is the breath of all breath.’

Summary of “O Servant, Where Dost Thou Seek Me?”

In this poem, the mystic poet Kabir emphasizes that God is not confined to religious places like temples, mosques, Kaaba, or Kailash, nor is He found in rituals, ceremonies, or extreme practices like yoga and renunciation. Instead, Kabir asserts that God is always present within and around us. He encourages true seekers to realize that divine presence can be experienced instantly if one looks inward with sincerity. The poem concludes with the profound message that God is the essence of life itself, as essential as breath.

Line 1: O servant, where dost thou seek Me?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Servant: A devotee or seeker of God.
  • Dost thou: An archaic way of saying “do you.”
  • Seek: To search for or try to find.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir, the poet, addresses the seeker (servant) directly, questioning the direction of their spiritual search. The tone is both rhetorical and profound, urging the seeker to reflect on where they are looking for the divine. Kabir challenges the conventional idea of seeking God in external places or rituals, suggesting that the search might be misguided.
  • Context:
  • This line sets the stage for the entire poem, which is a critique of outward religious practices and a call to recognize the omnipresence of God. Kabir, a 15th-century mystic poet, often criticized organized religion and emphasized the importance of inner realization.

Line 2: Lo! I am beside thee.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Lo: An archaic exclamation meaning “look” or “behold.”
  • Beside thee: Next to you, close to you.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir reveals the central truth of his philosophy: God is not distant or hidden but is always present, right beside the seeker. This line emphasizes the immediacy and accessibility of the divine, suggesting that the seeker’s efforts to find God in external places are unnecessary.
  • Context:
  • This line reflects Kabir’s belief in the immanence of God—the idea that the divine is present within and around us, not confined to temples, mosques, or rituals. It encourages the seeker to turn inward and recognize the divine presence in their own life.

Line 3: I am neither in temple nor in mosque:

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Temple: A place of worship for Hindus.
  • Mosque: A place of worship for Muslims.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir dismisses the notion that God can be confined to specific religious spaces. He challenges the idea that one must go to a temple or mosque to find the divine, suggesting that such places are man-made and not the true abode of God.
  • Context:
  • This line critiques institutionalized religion and the tendency to associate God with specific buildings or rituals. Kabir, who lived in a time of religious tension between Hindus and Muslims, sought to transcend these divisions by emphasizing the universality of God.

Line 4: I am neither in Kaaba nor in Kailash:

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Kaaba: The holy shrine in Mecca, central to Islam.
  • Kailash: A sacred mountain in Hinduism, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir continues his critique of religious exclusivity by stating that God is not confined to the most revered sites of either Islam (Kaaba) or Hinduism (Kailash). He rejects the idea that one must pilgrimage to these places to find the divine.
  • Context:
  • This line reinforces Kabir’s message of spiritual universality. By mentioning both Hindu and Islamic holy sites, he emphasizes that God transcends religious boundaries and cannot be limited to any one tradition or location.

Line 5: Neither am I in rites and ceremonies,

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Rites: Religious rituals or ceremonies.
  • Ceremonies: Formal acts performed in a religious or solemn occasion.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir dismisses the idea that God can be found through external rituals or ceremonies. He suggests that such practices, while perhaps meaningful to some, are not the true path to realizing the divine.
  • Context:
  • This line critiques the overemphasis on ritualistic practices in organized religion. Kabir advocates for a more direct, personal connection with the divine, free from the trappings of formalized worship.

Line 6: nor in Yoga and renunciation.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Yoga: A spiritual practice aimed at union with the divine.
  • Renunciation: The act of giving up worldly pleasures for spiritual purposes.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir goes further to say that even spiritual practices like yoga and renunciation are not the ultimate means to find God. While these practices may be valuable, they are not the essence of divine realization.
  • Context:
  • This line challenges the ascetic traditions of both Hinduism and Islam, suggesting that even the most rigorous spiritual disciplines can become obstacles if they distract from the simple truth of God’s omnipresence.

Line 7: If thou art a true seeker, thou shalt at once see Me:

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • True seeker: A sincere and earnest devotee.
  • At once: Immediately.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir assures the seeker that if their search is genuine and heartfelt, they will instantly recognize the divine presence. The emphasis is on sincerity and inner readiness rather than external efforts.
  • Context:
  • This line highlights the importance of authenticity in spiritual practice. Kabir suggests that the divine is always accessible to those who seek with an open and honest heart.

Line 8: thou shalt meet Me in a moment of time.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Meet Me: Encounter or realize the divine.
  • Moment of time: An instant, suggesting immediacy.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir promises that the realization of God is not a distant or arduous process but can happen in an instant. This underscores the immediacy and simplicity of divine connection.
  • Context:
  • This line reinforces Kabir’s message of the accessibility of God. It suggests that spiritual realization is not a matter of time or effort but of inner awakening.

Line 9: Kabir says, ‘O Sadhu! God is the breath of all breath.’

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Sadhu: A holy person or ascetic.
  • Breath of all breath: The life force that sustains all living beings.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir concludes by addressing the Sadhu (seeker) and declaring that God is the very essence of life, the breath that sustains all existence. This metaphor emphasizes the intimate and pervasive nature of the divine.
  • Context:
  • This final line encapsulates Kabir’s philosophy of the omnipresence of God. It suggests that the divine is not separate from creation but is the very life force that animates all beings. The use of “breath” as a metaphor highlights the immediacy and intimacy of God’s presence.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem is a profound critique of organized religion and ritualistic practices. It challenges the seeker to look beyond external forms of worship and recognize the divine presence within and around them. The poem emphasizes the universality and accessibility of God, urging the seeker to turn inward and realize the truth in a moment of sincere seeking. Kabir’s message is one of spiritual simplicity, authenticity, and the transcendence of religious boundaries.

2. It Is Needless To Ask Of A Saint

It is needless to ask of a saint the caste to which he belongs;
For the priest, the warrior. the tradesman, and all the
thirty-six castes, alike are seeking for God.
It is but folly to ask what the caste of a saint may be;
The barber has sought God, the washerwoman, and the carpenter-
Even Raidas was a seeker after God.
The Rishi Swapacha was a tanner by caste.
Hindus and Moslems alike have achieved that End, where remains no mark of distinction.

Summary of It Is Needless to Ask of a Saint

In this poem, Kabir conveys the message that spirituality and devotion to God are beyond caste and social divisions. He emphasizes that saints should not be judged by their caste, as people from all backgrounds—including priests, warriors, traders, barbers, washerwomen, and carpenters—seek God. Kabir highlights examples like Raidas and Rishi Swapacha, who, despite belonging to lower castes, attained spiritual enlightenment. He further states that both Hindus and Muslims have reached the ultimate truth, where all distinctions disappear. The poem promotes equality and the idea that true devotion unites all people, regardless of their social status.

Let’s break down this poem line by line, as per your instructions. I’ll analyze each verse, explain difficult words, and provide an in-depth explanation of the text and context. Here we go:

Line 1: It is needless to ask of a saint the caste to which he belongs;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Needless: Unnecessary.
  • Saint: A holy or spiritually enlightened person.
  • Caste: A social hierarchy in Hinduism, traditionally determining one’s occupation and status.
  • Explanation:
  • The poem begins by asserting that a saint’s caste is irrelevant. Kabir challenges the societal obsession with caste, emphasizing that spiritual enlightenment transcends such divisions.
  • Context:
  • In Kabir’s time, caste was a deeply entrenched social system in India, often dictating one’s opportunities and interactions. By dismissing the importance of caste in the context of sainthood, Kabir critiques the rigid social hierarchy and advocates for spiritual equality.

Line 2: For the priest, the warrior, the tradesman, and all the thirty-six castes, alike are seeking for God.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Priest: A religious leader (Brahmin in the Hindu caste system).
  • Warrior: A member of the Kshatriya caste, traditionally responsible for protection and governance.
  • Tradesman: A member of the Vaishya caste, involved in commerce and trade.
  • Thirty-six castes: A reference to the numerous subdivisions within the traditional caste system.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir points out that individuals from all castes—whether priests, warriors, traders, or others—are united in their search for God. This line underscores the universality of the spiritual quest, which transcends social and occupational divisions.
  • Context:
  • Kabir’s message here is one of inclusivity. He rejects the idea that spirituality is the domain of any particular caste or group, emphasizing that the divine is accessible to all, regardless of social status.

Line 3: It is but folly to ask what the caste of a saint may be;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Folly: Foolishness or lack of wisdom.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir reiterates that inquiring about a saint’s caste is foolish. He suggests that such questions are irrelevant to the saint’s spiritual stature and distract from the true essence of their enlightenment.
  • Context:
  • This line reinforces Kabir’s critique of caste-based discrimination. By calling it “folly,” he dismisses the societal norms that prioritize caste over spiritual merit.

Line 4: The barber has sought God, the washerwoman, and the carpenter—

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Barber, washerwoman, carpenter: Occupations traditionally associated with lower castes.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir provides examples of individuals from lower castes—such as barbers, washerwomen, and carpenters—who have sought and realized God. This challenges the notion that spirituality is reserved for the upper castes.
  • Context:
  • By highlighting the spiritual pursuits of individuals from marginalized communities, Kabir emphasizes that divine realization is not limited by one’s social or occupational status. This was a radical idea in his time, as lower castes were often denied access to religious education and practices.

Line 5: Even Raidas was a seeker after God.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Raidas: A 15th-century saint and poet from the untouchable (Dalit) caste, revered for his devotion and spiritual wisdom.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir cites Raidas as an example of a saint who transcended his low caste to achieve spiritual greatness. This serves as proof that caste is no barrier to divine realization.
  • Context:
  • Raidas, also known as Ravidas, was a contemporary of Kabir and a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement. His inclusion here reinforces Kabir’s message of spiritual equality and the irrelevance of caste in the pursuit of God.

Line 6: The Rishi Swapacha was a tanner by caste.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Rishi: A sage or seer in Hindu tradition.
  • Swapacha: A sage from the Mahabharata, born into a family of tanners (a low-caste occupation).
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir references Swapacha, a sage who belonged to a low caste, to illustrate that spiritual wisdom and enlightenment are not determined by birth or social status.
  • Context:
  • The story of Swapacha is a well-known example from Hindu scriptures that challenges caste-based prejudices. By invoking this example, Kabir aligns himself with a long tradition of spiritual inclusivity.

Line 7: Hindus and Moslems alike have achieved that End, where remains no mark of distinction.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • End: The ultimate goal, often referring to spiritual liberation or union with God.
  • Mark of distinction: Any sign of difference or division.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir concludes by stating that both Hindus and Muslims have attained the same spiritual goal, where all distinctions—whether of caste, religion, or social status—disappear. This highlights the universality of the divine and the futility of religious or social divisions.
  • Context:
  • Kabir lived in a time of religious tension between Hindus and Muslims. By asserting that both communities can achieve the same spiritual end, he promotes harmony and unity, transcending religious boundaries.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem is a powerful critique of caste-based and religious divisions. He argues that spiritual enlightenment is accessible to all, regardless of caste, occupation, or religion. By citing examples of saints from marginalized communities and emphasizing the universality of the divine, Kabir challenges societal norms and advocates for spiritual equality. His message is one of inclusivity, unity, and the transcendence of artificial distinctions.

8. Within This Earthen Vessel

Within this earthen vessel are bowers and groves, and within it is the Creator:

Within this vessel are the seven oceans and the unnumbered stars.

The touchstone and the jewel-appraiser are within;

And within this vessel, the Eternal soundeth, and the spring wells up.

Kabir says: “Listen to me, my friend! My beloved Lord is within.”

Summary

In this poem, Kabir compares the human body to an earthen vessel (a clay pot), emphasizing that everything—creation, divinity, and the mysteries of the universe—resides within us.

He describes the bowers, groves, seven oceans, and countless stars within this vessel, suggesting that the human soul holds an entire universe within itself. The touchstone (symbolizing wisdom) and the jewel-appraiser (symbolizing discernment) are also found inside, indicating that true knowledge and enlightenment come from within.

Kabir further speaks of an eternal sound and a wellspring within, referring to the divine vibrations and spiritual awakening that can be experienced internally.

He concludes with a heartfelt call to seekers, urging them to look within themselves for the presence of the Lord, rather than searching outwardly.

Line 1: WITHIN THIS earthen vessel are bowers and groves, and within it is the Creator:

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Earthen vessel: The human body, often symbolized as a clay pot in spiritual poetry.
  • Bowers and groves: Beautiful, shaded areas, often associated with gardens or natural beauty.
  • Creator: God or the divine source of all creation.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir begins by describing the human body as an “earthen vessel,” a metaphor for the physical form made of clay. Within this vessel, he says, are “bowers and groves,” symbolizing the beauty and complexity of the inner self. Most importantly, the Creator—God—resides within this vessel.
  • Context:
  • This line reflects Kabir’s belief in the immanence of God—the idea that the divine is not distant but resides within each individual. The imagery of bowers and groves suggests that the inner self is a place of beauty and divine presence.

Line 2: Within this vessel are the seven oceans and the unnumbered stars.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Seven oceans: In Hindu cosmology, the seven oceans symbolize the vastness of creation.
  • Unnumbered stars: The infinite expanse of the universe.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir expands on the idea of the human body as a microcosm of the universe. The “seven oceans” and “unnumbered stars” represent the vastness and infinity of creation, suggesting that the entire cosmos is contained within the individual.
  • Context:
  • This line emphasizes the idea that the human being is a reflection of the universe. Kabir suggests that the divine and the cosmos are not external but are intimately connected to the inner self.

Line 3: The touchstone and the jewel-appraiser are within;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Touchstone: A stone used to test the purity of gold or silver, symbolizing discernment or truth.
  • Jewel-appraiser: One who evaluates the worth of jewels, symbolizing wisdom or insight.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir uses the metaphor of the touchstone and jewel-appraiser to suggest that the tools for discerning truth and value are within the individual. This implies that the capacity for spiritual insight and self-realization is innate.
  • Context:
  • This line highlights the idea that the seeker does not need external guidance to find the divine. The wisdom and discernment needed for spiritual realization are already present within.

Line 4: And within this vessel the Eternal soundeth, and the spring wells up.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Eternal: The timeless, divine reality.
  • Soundeth: Resounds or echoes.
  • Spring wells up: A source of water, symbolizing life, purity, and spiritual nourishment.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir describes the presence of the Eternal (God) within the human body, resonating like a divine sound. The “spring wells up” symbolizes the continuous flow of spiritual energy and grace from within.
  • Context:
  • This line conveys the idea that the divine is not static but dynamic, constantly present and active within the individual. The imagery of the spring suggests an inexhaustible source of spiritual vitality.

Line 5: Kabir says; ‘Listen to me, my friend! My beloved Lord is within.’

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Beloved Lord: The divine, often referred to in terms of intimate love and devotion.
  • Within: Inside the self.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir concludes with a direct appeal to the listener, urging them to recognize that the divine is not external but resides within their own being. He uses the term “beloved Lord” to convey a sense of intimacy and personal connection with the divine.
  • Context:
  • This line encapsulates Kabir’s central message: the divine is not to be sought in temples, mosques, or external rituals but within the heart and soul of the individual. It is a call to inner realization and self-awareness.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem is a profound exploration of the inner self as the abode of the divine. Using rich metaphors like the earthen vessel, bowers and groves, and the seven oceans, he conveys the idea that the human being is a microcosm of the universe, containing the entire cosmos and the Creator within. The poem emphasizes the immanence of God and the innate capacity for spiritual realization. Kabir’s message is one of self-discovery and inner devotion, urging the seeker to look within to find the “beloved Lord.”

12. Tell Me, O Swan, Your Ancient Tale

Tell me, O Swan, your ancient tale.

From what land do you come, O Swan? To what shore will you fly?

Where would you take your rest, O Swan, and what do you seek?

Even this morning, O Swan, awake, arise, follow me!

There is a land where no doubt nor sorrow have rule,
Where the terror of Death is no more.

There the woods of spring are a-bloom,
And the fragrant scent “He is” is borne on the wind.

There the bee of the heart is deeply immersed,
And desires no other joy.

Summary

In this poem, Kabir addresses a swan (hamsa), a metaphor for the soul, and asks about its origin and destination. The swan symbolizes the spiritual seeker or the eternal self that journeys beyond the physical world.

Kabir urges the swan (soul) to awaken and follow the spiritual path to a divine realm—one free from doubt, sorrow, and the fear of death. This realm is described as a paradise where eternal spring blooms, and the fragrance of the Divine (“He is”) fills the air.

He further compares the heart to a bee, which finds ultimate fulfillment in divine nectar, seeking no other joy. This signifies a state of deep spiritual immersion and contentment.

Kabir’s message is clear: the soul’s true home is not in the material world but in the divine presence, where it will find peace, joy, and liberation.

Line 1: TELL ME, O Swan, your ancient tale.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Swan: A symbol of purity, grace, and the soul in spiritual poetry.
  • Ancient tale: A timeless or eternal story, often referring to spiritual wisdom.
  • Explanation:
  • The poem begins with an invocation to the swan, asking it to share its “ancient tale.” The swan symbolizes the soul, and its tale represents the timeless wisdom of the spiritual journey.
  • Context:
  • In Indian spirituality, the swan (hamsa) is often associated with the soul’s journey toward liberation. Kabir uses this imagery to evoke a sense of divine inquiry and the search for eternal truth.

Line 2: From what land do you come, O Swan? to what shore will you fly?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Land: A place of origin, symbolizing the soul’s source.
  • Shore: A destination, symbolizing the soul’s ultimate goal.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir asks the swan about its origin and destination, symbolizing the soul’s journey from its divine source to its ultimate union with the divine. The questions reflect the seeker’s curiosity about the nature of existence and the purpose of life.
  • Context:
  • These questions are central to spiritual inquiry. Kabir uses them to guide the reader toward contemplating the soul’s origin (the divine) and its destination (union with the divine).

Line 3: Where would you take your rest, O Swan, and what do you seek?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Rest: A place of peace or fulfillment.
  • Seek: To search for or desire.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir continues his inquiry, asking where the swan (soul) finds rest and what it seeks. These questions highlight the soul’s longing for peace and its ultimate quest for divine realization.
  • Context:
  • The idea of “rest” symbolizes spiritual liberation (moksha), where the soul finds eternal peace. The swan’s “seeking” represents the soul’s innate desire for union with the divine.

Line 4: Even this morning, O Swan, awake, arise, follow me!

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Awake, arise: To become conscious or alert.
  • Follow me: To follow the path of spiritual guidance.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir calls upon the swan (soul) to awaken and follow him on the spiritual path. This line is a call to action, urging the seeker to embark on the journey of self-realization.
  • Context:
  • The “morning” symbolizes a new beginning or spiritual awakening. Kabir’s call to “follow me” reflects his role as a spiritual guide, leading the seeker toward the divine.

Line 5: There is a land where no doubt nor sorrow have rule: where the terror of Death is no more.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Land: A spiritual realm or state of being.
  • Doubt and sorrow: Mental and emotional afflictions.
  • Terror of Death: Fear of mortality.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir describes a divine realm free from doubt, sorrow, and the fear of death. This “land” represents the state of spiritual liberation, where the soul experiences eternal peace and freedom.
  • Context:
  • This line reflects the ultimate goal of spiritual practice: to transcend the limitations of the material world and attain a state of eternal bliss and fearlessness.

Line 6: There the woods of spring are a-bloom, and the fragrant scent ‘He is I’ is borne on the wind:

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Woods of spring: Symbolizing renewal, beauty, and divine grace.
  • Fragrant scent: A metaphor for divine presence or realization.
  • ‘He is I’: The realization of oneness with the divine.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir paints a vivid picture of the divine realm, where the “woods of spring” are in full bloom, symbolizing spiritual vitality and beauty. The “fragrant scent ‘He is I'” represents the realization of the soul’s unity with God.
  • Context:
  • This line conveys the idea of non-duality (advaita), where the individual soul realizes its oneness with the divine. The imagery of spring and fragrance evokes a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Line 7: There the bee of the heart is deeply immersed, and desires no other joy.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Bee of the heart: A metaphor for the soul, drawn to the nectar of divine love.
  • Deeply immersed: Fully absorbed or united.
  • Desires no other joy: Complete contentment in divine union.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir describes the soul as a bee immersed in the nectar of divine love, finding complete fulfillment and desiring nothing else. This symbolizes the state of spiritual bliss and union with God.
  • Context:
  • The bee metaphor emphasizes the soul’s natural attraction to the divine and the joy of spiritual realization. It suggests that true happiness lies in union with God, beyond all worldly desires.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem is a lyrical exploration of the soul’s journey toward divine union. Using the swan as a metaphor for the soul, he poses profound questions about the soul’s origin, destination, and ultimate purpose. The poem describes a divine realm free from doubt, sorrow, and fear, where the soul realizes its oneness with God. Through vivid imagery and metaphors, Kabir conveys the beauty and joy of spiritual liberation, urging the seeker to awaken and follow the path to divine realization.

53. What is That Flute

What is that flute whose music thrills me with joy?

The flame burns without a lamp;
The lotus blossoms without a root;
Flowers bloom in clusters;
The moon-bird is devoted to the moon;
With all its heart, the rain-bird longs for the shower of rain;
But upon whose love does the Lover concentrate His entire life?

Summary

In this poem, Kabir expresses the ecstatic joy of hearing a divine melody, symbolized by the flute. This music represents spiritual awakening or the call of the divine.

Through mystical and paradoxical imagery—such as a flame burning without a lamp and a lotus blooming without roots—Kabir suggests that the divine operates beyond the logic of the material world.

He then draws comparisons from nature: the chakor bird longs for the moon, and the papihā bird eagerly waits for the rain. These creatures symbolize deep devotion and yearning.

Finally, Kabir asks a profound question: if these beings are devoted to specific things, then upon whom does the true Lover (the soul) fix its entire love? This question urges the seeker to reflect on their own spiritual longing and ultimate connection with the Divine.

Line 1: WHAT IS THAT flute whose music thrills me with joy?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Flute: A musical instrument, often associated with divine music in spiritual contexts.
  • Thrills: Causes a sudden feeling of excitement or joy.
  • Explanation:
  • The poem begins with a rhetorical question, asking about the source of the divine music that fills the speaker with joy. The flute is a metaphor for the divine call or the voice of God, which stirs the soul.
  • Context:
  • In Indian spiritual traditions, the flute is often associated with Lord Krishna, whose music symbolizes divine love and the call to the soul. Kabir uses this imagery to evoke a sense of wonder and longing for the divine.

Line 2: The flame burns without a lamp;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Flame: Fire or light.
  • Lamp: A source of light, often used metaphorically for guidance or enlightenment.
  • Explanation:
  • This line describes a miraculous phenomenon: a flame that burns without a lamp. It symbolizes the self-sustaining nature of divine light and wisdom, which does not depend on external sources.
  • Context:
  • Kabir uses this metaphor to illustrate the self-existent nature of the divine. Just as the flame burns without a lamp, the divine presence is independent and eternal, requiring no external support.

Line 3: The lotus blossoms without a root;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Lotus: A flower that symbolizes purity and spiritual awakening in Indian traditions.
  • Root: The part of a plant that anchors it and absorbs nutrients.
  • Explanation:
  • The lotus blooming without a root is another miraculous image, representing the idea of spiritual beauty and enlightenment arising without any apparent cause or foundation.
  • Context:
  • The lotus is a common symbol in Indian spirituality, often associated with the heart chakra and the unfolding of divine consciousness. Kabir uses this image to suggest that spiritual awakening is a natural and spontaneous process, not bound by material conditions.

Line 4: Flowers bloom in clusters;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Clusters: Groups or bunches.
  • Explanation:
  • This line describes the abundance and beauty of nature, with flowers blooming in clusters. It symbolizes the richness and generosity of divine creation.
  • Context:
  • Kabir uses this image to highlight the abundance of divine grace and the beauty of the natural world, which reflects the glory of the Creator.

Line 5: The moon-bird is devoted to the moon;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Moon-bird: A mythical bird said to be devoted to the moon, often symbolizing longing or devotion.
  • Explanation:
  • The moon-bird’s devotion to the moon represents the soul’s longing for the divine. Just as the bird is drawn to the moon, the soul is naturally drawn to God.
  • Context:
  • This metaphor emphasizes the innate yearning of the soul for union with the divine. Kabir suggests that this devotion is as natural and inevitable as the moon-bird’s attraction to the moon.

Line 6: With all its heart the rain-bird longs for the shower of rain;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Rain-bird: A bird associated with the monsoon season, symbolizing longing and anticipation.
  • Shower of rain: Rain, often seen as a blessing or a source of life.
  • Explanation:
  • The rain-bird’s longing for rain symbolizes the soul’s deep yearning for divine grace and nourishment. The imagery conveys a sense of anticipation and dependence on the divine.
  • Context:
  • Kabir uses this metaphor to illustrate the soul’s dependence on God’s grace, just as the rain-bird depends on rain for sustenance. It highlights the intensity of the soul’s devotion and its need for spiritual fulfillment.

Line 7: But upon whose love does the Lover concentrate His entire life?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Lover: The divine Beloved, often referring to God.
  • Concentrate: Focus or direct.
  • Explanation:
  • The poem concludes with a profound question: Who is the object of the divine Lover’s devotion? This reverses the usual perspective, suggesting that God, too, is a lover, deeply devoted to His creation.
  • Context:
  • This line encapsulates Kabir’s mystical philosophy, which emphasizes the mutual love between the soul and the divine. It suggests that just as the soul longs for God, God is equally devoted to the soul, creating a relationship of intimate love and union.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem is a rich tapestry of metaphors and imagery, exploring the themes of divine love, devotion, and the soul’s longing for union with God. Through symbols like the flute, the lotus, and the moon-bird, Kabir conveys the beauty and mystery of the divine, as well as the soul’s natural attraction to its Creator. The poem culminates in the idea of mutual love, where both the soul and God are devoted to each other, creating a profound and intimate relationship.

69. If God Be Within the

If God be within the mosque, then to whom does this world belong?

If Ram be within the image which you find upon your pilgrimage,
Then who is there to know what happens without?

Hari is in the East; Allah is in the West.
Look within your heart, for there you will find both Karim and Ram.

All the men and women of the world are His living forms.

Kabir is the child of Allah and of Ram:
He is my Guru, He is my Pir.

Summary

In this poem, Kabir challenges the idea of confining God to specific places, such as mosques, temples, or religious idols. He questions if God is truly present only in a mosque, then who governs the rest of the world? If divine presence is limited to a pilgrimage idol, then what about the vast existence outside?

Kabir rejects religious divisions, stating that Hari (Hindu name for God) is in the East and Allah (Islamic name for God) is in the West. However, the true presence of the Divine is within one’s own heart, where both Karim (a name for Allah) and Ram (a Hindu deity) reside together.

He further emphasizes that all human beings are manifestations of the Divine, reinforcing the idea of universal oneness. Finally, Kabir proclaims that he belongs to both Allah and Ram, seeing no distinction between Hindu and Muslim spiritual guides (Guru and Pir), embracing both traditions as one.

Line 1: IF GOD BE within the mosque, then to whom does this world belong?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Mosque: A place of worship for Muslims.
  • Belong: To be owned or associated with.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir begins by questioning the idea that God is confined to a mosque. If God is only within the mosque, then who governs or sustains the rest of the world? This rhetorical question challenges the notion of limiting God to a specific place.
  • Context:
  • Kabir critiques the tendency to localize God within religious structures. He emphasizes that God is omnipresent and cannot be confined to any one place, whether it be a mosque, temple, or any other sacred site.

Line 2: If Ram be within the image which you find upon your pilgrimage, then who is there to know what happens without?

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Ram: A Hindu deity, an incarnation of Vishnu.
  • Pilgrimage: A journey to a sacred place for religious reasons.
  • Without: Outside or beyond.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir questions the belief that God (Ram) resides only in the idols worshipped during pilgrimages. If God is limited to these images, who then oversees the world beyond them? This line challenges the idea of idol worship and the localization of the divine.
  • Context:
  • Kabir critiques the practice of idol worship and the belief that God can be contained within physical forms. He advocates for a more expansive understanding of God’s presence, which transcends physical boundaries.

Line 3: Hari is in the East: Allah is in the West.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Hari: Another name for Vishnu or Krishna in Hinduism.
  • Allah: The Islamic name for God.
  • East/West: Symbolic directions representing different religious traditions.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir points out the division between Hindu and Islamic conceptions of God, with Hari associated with the East and Allah with the West. This line highlights the geographical and cultural separation of religious beliefs.
  • Context:
  • Kabir lived in a time of religious tension between Hindus and Muslims. By mentioning both Hari and Allah, he acknowledges the diversity of religious traditions but also critiques the divisions they create.

Line 4: Look within your heart, for there you will find both Karim and Ram;

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Karim: A name of Allah, meaning “the Generous.”
  • Ram: A Hindu deity, symbolizing divine virtue.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir directs the seeker to look within their own heart, where both Karim (Allah) and Ram (Hari) reside. This line emphasizes the unity of the divine and the importance of inner realization over external religious practices.
  • Context:
  • Kabir’s message is one of spiritual unity. He suggests that the divine is not confined to external forms or traditions but can be found within the heart, transcending religious boundaries.

Line 5: All the men and women of the world are His living forms.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Living forms: Manifestations or embodiments.
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir declares that all human beings, regardless of gender, are living manifestations of the divine. This line underscores the idea that God is present in every individual.
  • Context:
  • This line reflects Kabir’s belief in the immanence of God—the idea that the divine is present within all creation. It promotes a sense of equality and reverence for all human beings.

Line 6: Kabir is the child of Allah and of Ram: He is my Guru, He is my Pir.

  • Difficult words/meanings:
  • Child: A follower or devotee.
  • Guru: A spiritual teacher in Hinduism.
  • Pir: A spiritual guide in Sufism (Islamic mysticism).
  • Explanation:
  • Kabir identifies himself as a devotee of both Allah and Ram, transcending religious boundaries. He acknowledges both Hindu and Islamic spiritual traditions, seeing them as paths to the same divine truth.
  • Context:
  • Kabir’s declaration of being a child of both Allah and Ram reflects his syncretic philosophy, which seeks to harmonize Hindu and Islamic teachings. He rejects religious exclusivity and embraces the universality of spiritual truth.

Summary of the Poem:

Kabir’s poem critiques the localization of God within religious structures and idols, emphasizing instead the omnipresence of the divine. He challenges the divisions between Hindu and Islamic traditions, urging seekers to look within their hearts to find the unity of Karim (Allah) and Ram (Hari). Kabir’s message is one of spiritual inclusivity, equality, and the recognition of the divine in all human beings. By identifying himself as a child of both Allah and Ram, he embodies the harmony of diverse religious paths.

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