Theme
Craving, thirst, wanting.
163 dohe
कबिरा माला मनहि की, और संसारी भीख। माला फेरे हरि मिले, गले रहट के देख।।२।।
Kabir says, the true rosary is the one in the mind, while worldly desires are like begging. If one could find God by rotating a rosary, then why don’t you see the oxen tied to a well becoming saints?
शीलवन्त सबसे बड़ा, सब रतनन की खान। तीन लोक की संपदा, रही शील में आन।।९।।
Character is the greatest virtue, a mine of all gems. The wealth of the three worlds lies in good character.
माया मरी न मन मरा, मर-मर गए शरीर। आशा तृष्णा न मरी, कह गए दास कबीर।।१०।।
Neither the mind nor desires die even as the body keeps perishing. Kabir says, despite dying repeatedly, hope and greed never die.
लगी लगन छूटे नाहिं, जीभ-चोंच जरि जाय। मीठा कहाँ अंगार में, जाहि चकोर चबाय।।४०।।
Once attached, it is hard to leave. The tongue burns like a beak. How can sweetness be found in embers, where a parrot would chew?
आहार करे मन भावता, इंद्रियाँ किए स्वाद। नाक तलक पूरन भरे, तो का कहिए प्रसाद।।४८।।
If the mind is pleased with the food and the senses with the taste, even if the stomach is full, what can be called a gift?
जल ज्यों प्यारा माहरी, लोभी प्यारा दाम। माता प्यारे बारका, भगति प्यारा नाम।।४९।।
Water is dear to the fish, wealth is dear to the greedy, the child is dear to the mother, and devotion is dear to the devotee.
सुख-सागर का शील है, कोई न पावे थाह। शब्द बिना साधु नहीं, द्रव्य बिना नहीं शाह।।६१।।
The virtue of the ocean of happiness cannot be fathomed. Without words, there are no saints; without wealth, there are no kings.
फल कारण सेवा करे, करे न मन से काम। कहै कबीर सेवक नहीं, चाहे चौगुना दाम।।६३।।
If someone serves expecting rewards, and does not work sincerely from the heart, Kabir says that person is not a true servant; they are just seeking fourfold returns.
भूखा भूखा क्या करे, क्या सुनावै लोग। भांडा घड़ निज मुख दिया, सोई पूरन जोग।।८३।।
What can a hungry person do or tell others? The pot is full when it is given from one's own mouth, this is the perfect yoga.
अवगुन कहूँ शराब का, आपा अहमक होय। मानुस ते पशु भया, दाम गाँठ ते खोय।।९७।।
The faults of alcohol make one foolish and arrogant. It transforms a human into an animal, and wealth is lost due to greed.
साँझ पड़े दिन बीतबै, चकवी दीन्ही रोय। चल चकवा वा देश को, जहाँ रैन नहिं होय।।१४३।।
As evening falls, the day passes away, and the chakvi (bird) cries. Go, chakva, to that land where there is no night.
ना गुरु मिल्या न सिष भया, लालच खेल्या डाव। दुन्यू बूड़े धार में, चढ़ि पाथर की नाव।।१५०।।
Neither did I find a Guru, nor did I become a disciple; greed played its tricks. The world is sinking in the flood, and I am riding a boat of stone.
बिरह-भुवगम तन बसै, मंत्र न लागै कोइ। राम-बियोगी ना जिवै, जिवै तो बौरा होइ।।१५८।।
The body suffers from separation and intense longing; no mantra or ritual seems effective. A person separated from Ram cannot live peacefully; they become mad with longing.
इहि उदर के कारणे, जग पाच्यो निस जाम। स्वामी-पणौ जो सिरि चढ़यो, सिर यो न एको काम।।१६७।।
Because of this belly, the world is perishing in the night. The pride of being a master is futile, as it does not serve any purpose.
त्रिक्षणा सींची ना बुझै, दिन दिन बधती जाइ। जवासा के रुष ज्यूं, घण मेहां कुमिलाइ।।१७३।।
Thirst is not quenched by watering; it grows daily. Like a dish in the pot, it shrinks even with time.
कबीर सो घन संचिये, जो आगे कू होइ। सीस चढ़ाये गाठ की, जात न देख्या कोइ।।१७४।।
Kabir says that one should accumulate wealth for the future. No one has seen the end of one's journey by placing a knot on the head.
खूब खांड है खीचड़ी, माहि ष्डयाँ टुक कून। देख पराई चूपड़ी, जी ललचावे कौन।।१८६।।
The sweet pudding is abundant, yet within it are six grains. Seeing another's meal makes one greedy.
माषी गुड़ मैं गड़ि रही, पंख रही लपटाई। ताली पीटै सिरि घुनै, मीठै बोई माइ।।१९४।।
The jaggery is melting in the syrup, while the fan continues to stir it. The sweetness remains, and the noise continues.
आसा का ईंधण करूँ, मनसा करूँ बिभूति। जोगी फेरी फिल करूँ, यौं बिनना वो सूति।।१९९।।
I use hope as fuel and desire as wealth. A yogi wanders and seeks, yet without this, they remain asleep.
प्रीतम के पतियाँ लिखूँ, जो कहुँ होय बिदेस। तन में मन में नैन में, ताको कहा सँदेस।।२०४।।
I write letters to my beloved, even if they are abroad. In body, mind, and eyes, where can I send messages to them?
मनह मनोरथ छाँड़िये, तेरा किया न होइ। पाणी में घीव नीकसै, तो रूखा खाइ न कोइ।।२०७।।
Abandon your desires; your actions won't always succeed. If you expect ghee to emerge from water, no one would eat dry food.
डूबा औघट न तरै, मोहिं अंदेशा होय। लोभ नदी की धार में, कहा पड़ो नर सोइ।।२७३।।
One who is drowned cannot cross the treacherous path; I fear. In the stream of greed, why does a person fall?
शिष किरपिन गुरु स्वारथी, किले योग यह आय। कीच-कीच के दाग को, कैसे सके छुड़ाय।।२९३।।
A miserly disciple and a selfish Guru—how can this be a good match? The stains of greed cannot be washed away, no matter how hard they try.
माँगन गै सो भर रहै, भरे जु माँगन जाहिं। तिनते पहिले वे मरे, होत करत है नाहिं।।३७४।।
One who asks for alms remains full, but those who keep asking keep demanding. They who keep asking will perish before they fulfill their desires.
अनमाँगा तो अति भला, माँगि लिया नहिं दोष। उदर समाता माँगि ले, निश्च्य पावै योष।।३७७।।
Not asking is very good; there is no fault in asking if necessary. One should be content with what is received through begging.
ब्राह्मण केरी बेटिया, मांस शराब न खाय। संगति भई कलाल की, मद बिना रहा न जाए।।३८९।।
The daughters of Brahmins may not consume meat or alcohol, but if they associate with drinkers, they cannot stay away from intoxication.
साधू संगत परिहरै, करै विषय का संग। कूप खनी जल बावरे, त्याग दिया जल गंग।।३९९।।
One who leaves the company of saints and indulges in worldly pleasures is like someone who forsakes the Ganges for the water of a pit.
आशा करै बैकुण्ठ की, दुरमति तीनों काल। शुक्र कही बलि ना करीं, ताते गयो पताल।।४०६।।
Hoping for paradise leads to delusion through all three ages. Praising the goddess without true devotion leads one to hell.
द्वार थनी के पड़ि रहे, धका धनी का खाय। कबहुक धनी निवाजि है, जो दर छाड़ि न जाय।।४०७।।
Those who linger at the door of the rich suffer from the kick of their wealth. Sometimes, the wealthy are gracious, but they never leave their door.
जब लग भक्ति सकाम है, तब लग निष्फल सेव। कहैं कबीर वह क्यों मिलै, निहकामी निजदेव।।४१३।।
As long as devotion is filled with desires, all service remains fruitless. Kabir says, how can one meet the selfless Divine with a mind full of desires?
खेत बिगारेउ खरतुआ, सभा बिगारी कूर। भक्ति बिगारी लालची, ज्यों केसर में घूर।।४१५।।
A careless farmer ruins the field, a cruel person disrupts the assembly. A greedy person ruins devotion, like adding dirt to saffron.
भक्ति निसेनी मुक्ति की, संत चढ़े सब आय। नीचे बाधिनि लुकि रही, कुचल पड़े कू खाय।।४१९।।
The ladder of devotion leads to liberation; saints climb it with ease. Below, temptations lurk, waiting to trap those who fall.
क्यों खोवे नरतन वृथा, परि विषयन के साथ। पाँच कुल्हाड़ी मारही, मूरख अपने हाथ।।४३८।।
Why does man waste his life on worldly pleasures? He cuts himself with five axes, the fool himself.
विषय वासना उरझि कर, जनम गंवाया बाद। अब पछितावा क्या करै, निज करनी कर याद।।४५३।।
Involved in sensual desires, life has been wasted. Now what is the use of regret? Remember your own actions.
गुरवा तो सस्ता भया, पैसा केर पचास। राम नाम धन बेचि के, शिष्य करन की आस।।५१४।।
The Guru has become cheap, valuing himself at just fifty rupees. Selling the wealth of God's name, he hopes to make disciples.
गुरु लोभी शिष लालची, दोनों खेले दांव। दोनों बूड़े बापुरे, चढ़ि पाथर की नांव।।५२२।।
The greedy guru and the avaricious disciple both play tricks. Both are old and decrepit, riding a boat made of stone.
जो कामिनी पड़दै रहे, सुनै न गुरुमुख बात। सो तो होगी कूकरी, फिरै उघारै गात।।५४३।।
One who is engrossed in worldly desires and ignores the Guru's teachings will degrade to a low state, like a dog wandering with exposed flesh.
और देव नहिं चित्त बसै, मन गुरु चरण बसाय। स्वल्पाहार भोजन करु, तृष्णा दूर पराय।।६१६।।
Do not let any other deity occupy your mind, let your mind rest at the Guru’s feet. Consume minimal food and dispel cravings.
उदर समाता मांग ले, ताको नाहिं दोष। कहैं कबीर अधिका गहै, ताकी गति न मोष।।६४६।।
Taking what fills the stomach is not a fault. Kabir says, those who gather excessively, their path is not secure.
दासातन हिरदै नहीं, नाम धरावै दास। पानी के पीये बिना, कैसे मिटै पियास।।६९१।।
A true servant does not possess pride; they are known by their devotion. Without drinking water, how can thirst be quenched?
तिमिर गया रवि देखते, कुमति गयी गुरु ज्ञान। सुमति गयी अति लोभते, भक्ति गयी अभिमान।।७००।।
When darkness departs, the sun is visible; similarly, ignorance leaves with the knowledge of the guru. Goodness fades with excessive greed, and devotion is lost with pride.
कबीर क्षुधा है कूकरी, करत भजन में भंग। वाकूं टुकड़ा डारि के, सुमिरन करुं सुरंग।।७५५।।
Hunger is the dog's bark; it disrupts devotion. Throw a piece of bread to it, and focus on meditation.
सहकामी सुमिरन करै, पावै उत्तम धाम। निहकामी सुमिरन करै, पावै अविचल राम।।७७०।।
One who remembers with a desire for reward attains the highest abode. One who remembers without desire attains the unwavering Ram.
पूंजि मेरी राम है, जाते सदा निहाल। कबीर गरजे पुरुष बल, चोरी करै न काल।।७८२।।
My wealth is Ram, who is always prosperous. Kabir roars like a strong man; time cannot steal from him.
प्रेम बिना धीरज नहीं, बिरह बिना वैराग। सतगुरु बिन जावै नहीं, मन मनसा का दाग।।८०२।।
Without love, there is no patience; without separation, there is no renunciation. Without the True Guru, one cannot overcome the stains of the mind and its desires.
जो जागत सो सपन में, ज्यौं घट भीतर सांस। जो जन जाको भावता, सो जन ताके पास।।८२३।।
The one who is awake is in a dream, just as the breath is within the body. The person who truly desires it is always close to it.
प्रेम पियाला जो पिये, शीश दच्छिना देय। लोभी शीश न दे सकै, नाम प्रेम का लेय।।८२५।।
One who drinks the cup of love should offer their head as a token of gratitude. A greedy person cannot offer their head, they merely take the name of love.
मैं भौंरा तोहि बरजिया, बन बन बास न लेय। अटकेगा कहुं बेल सों, तड़प तड़प जिय देय।।८३५।।
I am a bee and you are a flower; I do not dwell in the forest. I will get entangled somewhere with a creeper, and my soul will suffer in agony.
एक बुन्द के कारनै, रोता सब संसार। अनेक बुन्द खाली गये, तिनका नहीं विचार।।८४९।।
Because of a single drop, the whole world weeps. Many drops have gone by without a thought.
विषय वासना उरझिकर, जनम गंवाय बाद। अब पछितावा क्या करै, निज करनी कर याद।।८९१।।
Entangled in desires and passions, you wasted your life. Now, what is the use of regret? Remember your actions.
कबीर मन्दिर लाख का, जड़िया हीरा लाल। दिवस चारि का पेखना, विनशि जाएगा काल।।८९४।।
A temple worth a million with gems and rubies inside, In just four days, even such wealth will be destroyed by time.
कबीर यह तन जात है, सको तो राखु बहोर। खाली हाथो बह गये, जिनके लाख करोर।।९७३।।
Kabir says, this body is passing away, if you can, save it again. Many with millions passed away empty-handed.
लागी लागी क्या करै, लागत रही लगार। लागी तबही जानिये, निकसी जाय दुसार।।१०१२।।
What can desire do, as long as attachment remains? True desire is known only when other attachments leave.
सहज तराजू आनि कै, सब रस देखा तोलि। सब रस माहीं जीभ रस, जु कोय जानै बोलि।।१०१८।।
Bringing the scale of simplicity, all tastes were weighed. Among all tastes, the taste of the tongue is the best for those who know how to speak.
प्रीत रीत सब अर्थ की, परमारथ की नाहिं। कहैं कबीर परमारथी, बिरला कोई कलि माहि।।१०९५।।
Love for worldly methods is all for gain, there is no true selflessness. Kabir says, in this age, true selflessness is rare.
मना मनोरथ छांड़ि दे, तेरा किया न होय। पानी में घी नीकसै, रूखा खाय न कोय।।१११४।।
Abandon the desires of the mind; what you have done will not be achieved. Just as ghee does not flow in water, so does not a dry diet fulfill.
कबीर यह मन लालची, समझै नहीं गंवार। भजन करन को आलसी, खाने को तैयार।।१११८।।
Kabir describes the mind as greedy and ignorant. It is lazy in devotion but always ready for indulgence.
यह मन नीचा मूल है, नीचा करम सुहाय। अमृत छाडै मान करि, विषहि प्रीत करि खाय।।११२४।।
The mind is inherently low, and low actions seem pleasant. It abandons nectar for the sake of pride and embraces poison with affection.
मन पंखी बिन पंख का, जहां तहा उड़ि जाय। मन भावे ताको मिले, घट में आन समाय।।११३७।।
The mind is like a bird without wings, flying wherever it wishes. The mind finds what it desires, and remains in the same place.
कबीर बैरी सबल है, एक जीव रिपु पांच। अपने-अपने स्वाद को, बहुत नचावै नाच।।११३८।।
Kabir says that the enemy is strong, and there are five enemies in one being. Each one dances to its own tune.
कोटि करमकर पलक में, या मन विषया स्वाद। सद्गुरु शब्द न मानहीं, जनम गंवाय बाद।।११५३।।
In the blink of an eye, countless actions are performed, but the mind still finds pleasure in worldly desires. If one does not heed the words of the true guru, they waste their life.
मन पंछी तब लगि उडै, विषय वासना मांहि। ज्ञान बाज को झपट में, जब लगि आवै नांहि।।११५६।।
The mind, like a bird, keeps flying in the desires of worldly pleasures. Knowledge is like a hawk that snatches the mind when it does not arrive.
माया जात है, सुनो शब्द निज मोर। सुखियों के घर साध जन, सूमौं के घर चोर।।११६४।।
Illusion is fleeting; hear my words. In the homes of the content, there are saints, and in the homes of the rich, there are thieves.
कबीर माया पापिनी, लोभ भ्ज्ञुलाया लोग। पूरी किनहुं न भोगिया, इसका यही बिजोग।।११६५।।
Kabir says, illusion is sinful, and greed has misled people. No one has fully enjoyed it; this is its problem.
कबीर माया मोहिनी, मांगी मिलै न हाथ। मना उतारी जूठ करु, लागी डोलै साथ।।११९४।।
Kabir says, illusion is enchanting but cannot be grasped by hand. If you rid the mind of false desires, illusion will no longer follow you.
मैं जानूं हरिसूं मिलूं, मो मन मोटी आस। हरि बिच डारै अन्तरा, माया बड़ी पिचास।।१२०५।।
I know I will meet the Lord, but my mind has a deep desire. The Lord is in my heart, but illusion is a great deceiver.
माया मुई न मन मुआ, मरि मरि गया शरीर। आशा तृष्णा ना मुई, यौं कथि कहैं कबीर।।१२०७।।
Illusion does not die, nor does the mind die. The body may perish repeatedly, but desires and cravings do not die. Thus says Kabir.
अष्ट सिद्धि नव निद्धि लौं, सबही मोह की खान। त्याग मोह की वासना, कहैं कबीर सुजान।।१२०९।।
The eight siddhis and nine treasures are all sources of illusion. Renounce the desire for illusion, says the wise Kabir.
सुर नर मुनि सब फंसे, मृग त्रिस्ना जग मोह। मोह रूप संसार है, गिरे मोह निधि जोह।।१२१०।।
Gods, humans, and sages are all trapped by the illusion of desire. The world is a form of illusion; those who seek its treasures fall into its trap.
मोह फंद सब फंदिया, कोय न सके निवार। कोई साधु जन पारखी, बिरला तत्व विचार।।१२१२।।
Desire is the net of all nets; no one can escape it. Only a few wise saints, who have truly contemplated the essence, can understand it.
जहं लगि सब संसार है, मिरग सबन को मोह। सुर नर नाग पाताल अरु, ऋषि मुनिवर सब जोह।।१२१४।।
Wherever there is the world, there is the illusion of desire. Gods, humans, serpents, and sages are all entangled in this illusion.
जब घट मोह समाइया, सबै भया अंधियार। निर्मोह ज्ञान विचार के, साधु उतरे पार।।१२१५।।
When the illusion of desire fills the vessel, everything becomes dark. Only those who have transcended illusion through knowledge and contemplation reach the other shore.
कामी क्रोधी लालची, इनते भक्ति न होय। भक्ति करै कोय सूरमा, जाति बरन कुल खोय।।१२२१।।
Desire, anger, and greed cannot lead to true devotion. Only a true hero who has abandoned caste, class, and family can practice true devotion.
काम क्रोध मद लोभी की, जब लग घट में खान। कबीर मूरख पंडिता, दोनो एक समान।।१२२३।।
When desire, anger, pride, and greed are present in the heart, the learned scholar and the fool are the same.
कामी लज्जा ना करै, मौहीं अहलाद। नींद न मांगै साथरा, भूख न मांगे स्वाद।।१२२५।।
A desirous person has no sense of shame and no satisfaction. Sleep does not ask for a pillow, nor does hunger ask for flavor.
कहता हूं कहि जात हूं, मानै नहीं गंवार। बैरागी गिरही कहा, कामी वार न पार।।१२२६।।
I speak and go away, but the foolish do not accept it. How can a renunciant in a household and a desirous person cross the boundary?
कामी कुत्ता तीस दिन, अन्तर होय उदास। कामी नर कुत्ता सदा, छह रितु बारह मास।।१२२७।।
A desirous dog may become sad after thirty days, but a desirous man is like a dog forever, throughout the six seasons and twelve months.
कामी अमी न भावई, विष को लेवै सोध। कुबुधि न भाजै जीव की, भावै ज्यों परमोध।।१२२८।।
The desirous person does not enjoy nectar; he investigates poison. Ignorant thoughts do not affect the soul, as if they are like the highest nectar.
काम कहर असवार है, सबकों मारै धाय। कोई एक हरिजन ऊबरा, जाके नाम सहाय।।१२२९।।
Desire is a devastating calamity, it destroys everyone. Only a few saints, whose names are remembered, escape its effect.
जहां काम तहां नाम नहिं, तहां नाम नहिं काम। दोनों कबहू ना मिलै, रवि रजनी इक ठाम।।१२३१।।
Where there is desire, there is no name (spiritual presence); where there is name, there is no desire. They never meet, just like day and night are in separate places.
तन मन लज्जा ना रहे, काम बान उर साल। एक काम सब वश किए, सुर नर मुनि बेहाल।।१२३२।।
When there is no shame in body and mind, desire binds the heart. Desire controls everyone, even gods, men, and sages are distressed by it.
कामी तो निरभय भया, करै न कहाूं संक। इन्द्री केरे बसि पड़ा, भूगते नरक निसंक।।१२३३।।
The desirous person becomes fearless and does not have any doubts. Controlled by the senses, he experiences hell without fear.
दीपक सुन्दर देखि करि, जरि जरि मरे पतंग। बढ़ी लहर जो विषय की, जरत न मोरै अंग।।१२३४।।
Seeing the beautiful lamp, the moth burns and dies. The wave of desire grows, and it burns without harming my body.
भक्ति बिगाड़ी कामिया, इन्द्रिन केरे स्वाद। हीरा खोया हाथ सों, जनम गंवाय बाद।।१२३५।।
Desire spoils devotion and indulges the senses. One who loses a gem from his hand wastes his life in the process.
कामी का गुरु कामिनी, लोभी का गुरु दाम। कबीर का गुरु सन्त है, संतन का गुरु राम।।१२३६।।
The guru of the desirous is desire itself, the guru of the greedy is wealth. Kabir’s guru is the saint, and the guru of saints is Ram.
बहुत जतन करि कीजिये, सब फल जाय नसाय। कबीर संचै सूम धन, अन्त चोर ले जाय।।१२४३।।
No matter how much effort is put into accumulating wealth, it all ultimately gets stolen by the thief of time.
जब मन लागा लोभ सो, गया विषय में भोय। कहैं कबीर विचार के, केहि प्रकार धन होय।।१२४५।।
When the mind is attached to greed, it gets lost in worldly desires. Kabir says, by contemplating, how can one attain true wealth?
कंचन तजना सहज है, सहज तिरिया का नेह। मान बड़ाई ईरषा, दुरलभ तजनी येह।।१२६६।।
Leaving gold is easy; easy is the love of a simple woman. To renounce pride, greatness, and envy is very difficult.
माखी गहै कुवास को, फूल वास नहिं लेयै। मधुमाखी हैं साधु जन, पुष्प बास चित देयं।।१२८५।।
A fly is attracted to filth and does not care for flowers. But a honeybee, like a saint, is attracted to the fragrance of flowers.
पाहन को क्या पूजिये, जो नहिं देय जवाब। अंधा नर आशा मुखी, यों ही खोवै आब।।१३७६।।
Why worship a stone that cannot answer? The blind man, driven by hope, loses his essence in vain.
मूरति धरि धंधा रचा, पाहन को जगदीस। मोल लिया बोलै नहीं, खोटा बिसवा बीस।।१३८५।।
By setting up an idol, people have created a business, turning stone into God. Though they bought it, it doesn't speak, and it's worth less than a counterfeit coin.
दाता दाता चलि गये, रहि गये मक्खी चूस। दान मान समुझे नहीं, लड़ने को मजबूत।।१३८७।।
The generous givers have left, leaving behind the miserly who suck even the last drop. They understand neither charity nor honor, but are strong in conflict.
कबीर जांचण जाइया, आगै मिल्या अंच। ले चाल्या घर आपणै, भारी खाया संच।।१४३५।।
Kabir went to seek, and found it ahead. He took it home, and it filled him with great satisfaction.
अर्व खर्व लौ द्रव्य हैं, उदे अस्त लौं राज। भक्ति महातम न तुले, ई सब कौने काज।।१४४२।।
The riches and wealth of the world are fleeting, they rise and set like a kingdom. The greatness of devotion cannot be compared to these; what purpose do they serve?
इहां ई शंबल करि लेउ, आगे विषयी वाट। स्वर्ग बिसाहन सब चले, जहं बनिया नहि हाट।।१४५४।।
In this world, if you accumulate wealth, it will only lead to a difficult path ahead. Even heaven is deserted; where there is no market for merchants.
जब लगि तारा जगमगे, तब लगि उगे न सूर। जब लगि जीव कम बस डोले, तब लगि ज्ञान न पूर।।१५१२।।
As long as the stars shine, the sun does not rise. Similarly, as long as the soul is entangled in worldly desires, true knowledge does not dawn.
जेहि वन सायर मुझे ते, रसिया लाल करहिं। अब कबीर पांजी करी, पंथी आवहिं जाहिं।।१५३५।।
The forest is full of desires and passions. Now Kabir has created a path; travelers should follow it.
जैसी लागी ओर की, तैसी निबहै छोर। कोड़ी कोड़ी जोरि के, कीन्हों लक्ष्य करोर।।१५३९।।
As one treats others, so shall they be treated. By accumulating wealth bit by bit, one might achieve a great goal.
झालि परे दिन आथये, अन्तर परिगो सांझ। बहुत रसिक के लागते, वेश्या रह गइ बांझ।।१५४९।।
After the flame burns out, the day turns to dusk. Many pleasure-seekers find themselves left barren, like a courtesan abandoned at dusk.
पाणि पियावत का फिरो, घर घर सायर बारि। तुषावंत जो होंहिगे, पीवहिंगे झख मारि।।१५८९।।
Drinking water and wandering, visiting each house. Those who are wise, enjoy without hesitation; the foolish are caught in a cycle.
बिन डांडै जग डांडिया, सोरठि परिया डांड। बाटनिहारा लोभिया, गुड़े ते मीठी खांड।।१६१३।।
Without a stick, the world is disciplined. The one who travels the path of greed finds sweetness in the stones.
भंवर विलंबे बाग में, बहु फूलन की बास। ऐसे जिव बिलमे विषय में, अन्तहु चले निरास।।१६२४।।
The whirlpool is delayed in the garden, filled with the scent of many flowers. Similarly, the soul lost in desire eventually becomes disillusioned.
भक्ति पियारी राम की, जैसी प्यारी आगि। सारा पट्टन जरि गया, फिर फिर ल्यावे मागि।।१६२५।।
Devotion to Lord Rama is like a precious fire. The entire town burns down, and one keeps asking for it again and again.
मन भर के बोय घुंघची, भर नहिं होय। कहा हमारे माने नहीं, अन्तहु चला विगोय।।१६३२।।
The mind fills with bellows, yet it does not get full. Our desires are insatiable, they eventually lead to loss.
मन स्वारथी आपु रस, विषय लहरि फहराय। मन चलाये तन चले, ताते सरबस जाय।।१६३४।।
The selfish mind enjoys itself, while the waves of desire spread. When the mind moves, the body follows, and thus everything perishes.
रही एक की भइ अनेक की, विश्वा बहु भर्तारी। कहहिं कबिर काम संग जरिहै, बहुत पुरुष की नारी।।१६६३।।
What was one became many, the world has many caretakers. Kabir says, those consumed by desire will burn, many men’s wives.
लोभे जन्म गमाइया, पापे खाया पुण्य। साधी सो आधीकहै, ता पर मेरा खून।।१६७०।।
Greed gives birth to troubles, sins are consumed and virtues are earned. The one who maintains this balance is my own blood.
लाहा केरी नावरी, पाहन गरुवा भार। सिर पर विष की पोटरी, उतरन चाहे पार।।१६७१।।
The burden of iron is heavy, and the stone weighs down. The pot of poison on the head desires to cross over.
विरह की ओदी लाकरी, सपचे औ धुंधवाय। दुख ते तब ही बांचिहो, जब सकलो जरि जाय।।१६७२।।
The wood of separation is burning, causing true pain and confusion. One will only be freed from suffering when everything is burned away.
कबीर सूम थैली अरु श्वान भग, दोनों एक समान। घालत में सुख ऊपजै, काढ़त निकसै प्रान।।१७३४।।
Kabir says, the pot of wealth and the running dog are the same. In handling, joy arises, but in removing, life is lost.
जोगी जंगम सेवड़ा, ज्ञानी गुनी अपार। षट दर्शन से क्या बने, एक लोभ की लार।।१७३५।।
The yogi, the wandering monk, and the wise with boundless virtues all are seekers. What does six philosophies achieve when driven by greed?
बिरहनि ऊभी पंथ सिरि, पंथी बूझे धाइ। एक सबद कहि पीव का, कब रे मिलैंगे आइ।।१७४०।।
The separation causes pain, the traveler understands and runs on the path. Speaking one word to the beloved, when will we meet again?
बहुत दिनन की जोवती, बाट तुम्हारी राम। जिव तरसै तुझ मिलन कूं, मनि नाहीं विश्राम।।१७४१।।
For many days the journey is long, the path is yours, Ram. The soul yearns to meet you, the heart finds no rest.
बिरहिन ऊठै भी पड़े, दरसन कारनि राम। मूवां पीछें देहुगे, सो दरसन किहिं काम।।१७४२।।
The separation causes pain, even the beloved falls due to longing. If you see from behind, does the sight serve any purpose?
आइ न सकौं तुझ पैं, सकूं न तूझ बुलाइ। जियरा यौही लेहुगे, बिरह तपाइ तपाइ।।१७४५।।
I cannot come to you, nor can you call me. The heart is burning with separation, continuously burning.
इस तन का दीया करौं, बाती मेल्यूं जीव। लोही सींचौं तेज ज्यूं, कब मुख देखौं पीव।।१७५८।।
I make the lamp of this body, and the wick is my life. I pour the oil of devotion, and when will I see my Lord’s face?
नैंनां नीझर लाइया, रहट बहै निस जाम। पपीहा ज्यूं पिव पिव करौं, कबहुं मिलहुगे राम।।१७५९।।
With eyes filled with tears, I continuously work, day and night. Like a cuckoo calling out, I keep calling for Ram, hoping to meet Him someday.
पूति पियारो पिता कौं, गौंहनि लागा धाइ। लोभ मिठाइ हाथि दे, आपण गया भुलाइ।।१७६६।।
The purity of love for the father is like running to the village. Handing over a sweet to greed, one forgets their own self.
नैना अंतरि आव तूं, निस दिन निरषौं तोहि। कब हरि दरसन देहुगे, सो दिन आवै मोहि।।१७६८।।
The eyes are filled with your presence, and day and night I yearn for you. When will that day come when I will see Hari's vision?
कबीर देखत दिन गया, निस भी देखत जाइ। बिरहणि पिव पावै नहीं, जियरा तलपैं माइ।।१७६९।।
Kabir sees the day go by, and the night also passes. The longing of separation does not end, the heart keeps burning.
हौं बिरहा की लाकड़ी, समझि समझि धूंधाउं। छूटि पड़ौं यों बिरह तैं, जे सारीही जलि जाउं।।१७७२।।
I am like a log of separation, searching for understanding. I would be free from this separation if I could burn completely.
परबति परबति मैं फिरया, नैंन गंवाये रोइ। सो बूटी पाऊं नहीं, जातैं जीवनि होइ।।१७७५।।
I wandered from mountain to mountain, weeping and losing my eyes. I cannot find that herb, which would make my life complete.
नैन हमारे जलि गये, छिन छिन लोड़ैं तुझ। नां तूं मिलै न मैं खुसी, ऐसी वेदन मुझ।।१७७७।।
My eyes are burning, every moment longing for you. I find no joy in meeting you, such is my pain.
जा कारणि मैं ढूंढ़ता, सनमुख मिलिया आइ। धन मैली पिव उजला, लागि न सकौं पाइ।।१८१५।।
For the reason that I searched, I came face to face with the truth. The wealth is tarnished, but the true essence remains pure, and cannot be grasped by material means.
कबीर सीप समंद की, रटै पियास पियास। समुदहि तिणका करि गिणै, स्वांति बूंद की आस।।१८३२।।
Kabir, the oyster of the sea yearns for the water, counting every grain of sand in the ocean, hoping for a drop of peace.
जब लग भगति सकामता, तब लग निष्फल सेव। कहै कबीर वै क्यूं मिलै, निहकामी निज देव।।१८३७।।
As long as devotion is driven by desire, service remains fruitless. Kabir says, why would such a person find the true deity?
अनल अकांसा घर किया, मधि निरंतर बास। बसुधा ब्यौम बिरकत रहै, बिनठाहर बिसवास।।१८४७।।
The home of the fire (desire) is within, where it continuously resides. The earth and the sky are distant; faith resides beyond them.
मांनि महातम प्रेम रस, गरवातण गुण नेह। ए सबही अह लागया, जबहिं कह्या कुछ देह।।१८८१।।
Honor, greatness, love, and virtue—all are lost when one speaks of receiving something.
दावै दाझण होत है, निरदावै निरसंक। जे नर निरदावै रहैं, ते गिणैं इंद्र को रंक।।१८९५।।
Those who are attached to desires suffer, while those without desires remain fearless. Even Indra, the king of gods, seems like a pauper compared to one who is detached.
कबीर मेरे संसा को नहीं, हरि सूं लागा हेत। काम क्रोध सूं झूझणां, चौड़े मांडूया खेत।।१९१२।।
Kabir says, my doubt is not with the Lord, but with the desire and anger. The broad field is fought over by these forces.
मैंमंता तिण नां चरै, सालै चिता सनेह। एक बारि जु बांध्या प्रेम कै, डारि रह्या सिरि षेह।।१९५३।।
The attachment to worldly things is like a burning pyre. Once bound by love, one remains steadfast in it, as if their head is tied with it.
पुरपाटण सुबस बसै, आनंद ढांये ढांइ। राम सनेही बाहिरा, ऊंजड़ मेरे भांइ।।१९८१।।
The old garment sits well, and the joy it brings is indescribable. The beloved of Ram is outside, and I am left behind.
कबीर धनि ते सुंदरी, जिन जाया बैसनौं पूत। राम सुमरि नरिभै हुवा, सब जग गया अऊत।।१९८५।।
Kabir says, the rich and beautiful woman, who has sons and wealth, has attained true greatness by remembering Ram. All the world is in awe of her.
अणरता सुका सीवणां, रातै नींद न आइ। ज्यूं जल टूटै मंछली, यूं बेलंत बिहाइ।।१९९२।।
The thirst of the soul is like a dried-up river, it does not find sleep at night. Just as a fish out of water flounders, so does the soul in its longing.
कांमणि काली नागणीं, तीन्यूं लोक मंझारि। राम सनेही ऊबरे, विषई खाये झारि।।२०३७।।
The black serpent of desire affects all three worlds. But those who are dear to Ram are protected, while others suffer from the poison of desire.
कामंणि मीनीं षांणि की, जे छेड़ौं तौ खाइ। जे हरि चरणां राचियां, तिनके निकट न जाइ।।२०३८।।
The desire for wealth is like a poisonous fish; if provoked, it will bite. Those who are devoted to the feet of Hari, remain untouched by such desires.
पर नारी पर सुंदरी, बिरला बंच कोइ। खातां मीठी खांड सी, अंति कालि विष होइ।।२०४०।।
Among women, a beautiful one is rare. She may appear sweet like sugar, but in the end, she turns into poison.
नर नारी सब नरक है, जब लग देह सकाम। कहै कबीर ते राम के, जे सुमिरै निहकाम।।२०४३।।
Both men and women are in hell as long as they desire bodily pleasures. Kabir says that those who remember Ram with selflessness are free from this hell.
एक कनक अरु कांमनी, विष फल कीए उपाइ। देखै ही थै विष चढ़ै, खांयै सूं मरि जाइ।।२०४६।।
One gold and one woman, both are like poison fruits. Just seeing them can cause harm, consuming them leads to death.
एक कनक अरु कांमनी, दोऊ अगनि की झाल। देखें ही तन प्रजलै, परस्यां ह्वै पैमाल।।२०४७।।
One gold and one woman, both are like flames of fire. Just seeing them can burn the body, touching them brings destruction.
भगति बिगाड़ी कांमियां, इंद्री के रे स्वादि। हीरा खोया हाथ से, जनम गंवाया बादि।।२०५२।।
Devotion ruined by desires, for the taste of senses. The diamond was lost from the hand, the life wasted in vain.
कामीं अमीं न भावई, विषइ कौं ले सोधि। कुबधि न जाई जोव की, भावै स्वयं रहो प्रमोधि।।२०५३।।
For the lustful, nectar holds no charm, they seek only poison. Evil thoughts don’t leave the mind, they only find pleasure in delusion.
कामीं कदे न हरि भजै, जपै न कैसौ जाप। रांम कहे से जलि मरै, कोई पूरिबला पाप।।२०५६।।
The lustful never worship Hari, nor do they chant any prayer. Saying 'Ram' burns them alive, such is their sinful nature.
कांमी लज्जा ना करैं, मन मांहे अहिलाद। नींद न मांगै सांथरा, भूख न मांगै स्वाद।।२०५७।।
The lustful feel no shame, their mind finds perverse joy. They don't ask sleep for rest, nor hunger for taste.
नारि पराई आपणीं, भुगत्या नरकहि जाइ। आगि आगि सब एक है, तामैं हाथ न बाहि।।२०५८।।
Seeing another's wife as one's own leads to hell. Fire is fire, whether near or far, don't put your hand in it.
कबीर कहता जात हौं, चेते नहीं गंवार। बैरागी गिरही कहा, कांमी वार न पार।।२०५९।।
Kabir says as he departs, the fool doesn't understand. Neither recluse nor householder, the lustful finds no peace.
इसी उदर कै कारणै, जग जांच्यौ निस जाम। स्वामीं पणो जु सिर चढ्यो, सरया न एकौ काम।।२०६३।।
For the sake of this belly, the world searches day and night. The burden of duty on the head, yet not a single task is fulfilled.
कबीर तष्टा टोगणीं, लीए फिरै सुभाइ। राम नांम चीन्हैं नहीं, पीतलि ही कै चाइ।।२०६६।।
Kabir says, the spinning top (of desires) is carried everywhere by nature. They do not recognize the name of Ram, only desire for brass.
कलि का स्वामीं लोभिया, पीतलि धरी षटाइ। राज दुबारां यों फिरै, ज्यूं हरिहाई गाइ।।२०६७।।
The master of Kali Yuga is greedy, hiding brass under gold. He wanders in the royal court, like a cow tied in a circle.
कलि का स्वामीं लोभिया, मनसा धरी बधाइ। दैंहि पईसा ब्याज कों, लेखां करतां जाइ।।२०६८।।
The master of Kali Yuga is greedy, with increasing desires. He lends money with interest, always calculating his gains.
रासि पराई राषतां, खाया घर का खेत। औरां कौं प्रमोधतां, मुख मैं पड़िया रेत।।२०७४।।
Coveting others' wealth, you eat up your own fields. Misleading others, you fill your mouth with sand.
ऊंचा तरुवर गगनफल, पक्षी मुआ बिसूर। अनेक सयाना पचि गया, फल निर्मल पर दूर।।२०८४।।
The tall tree bears fruits high in the sky, and birds lament as they die in their pursuit. Many wise ones have perished, unable to reach the distant, pure fruit.
चित चेतन ताजी करै, लौ की करैं लगाम। शब्द गुरु का ताजना, पहुंचै संत सुजान।।२०८६।।
The mind becomes alert when the reins of desire are tightened. By following the words of the Guru, a wise saint reaches the ultimate goal.
ज्ञान कामना लौ गुनां, तन तरकस मन तीर। भलका बहै है सारका, मारै हदफ कबीर।।२१३६।।
Knowledge is the fire of desire, the body is the quiver and the mind is the arrow. True value flows from this, says Kabir, aiming at the target.
कबिरा तोरा मान गढ, मारा पांच गनीम। सीस नंवाया धनी को, साधी बड़ी महीम।।२१४१।।
Kabir's honor is a fortress, defeated by five foes. The head bowed to the wealthy, the earth is humbled.
पियासों परिचय नहीं, दादा रहि गा दूर। लल्ला लौ लागी रहै, नन्ना सदा हजूर।।२१६९।।
The thirsty do not recognize, the elder remains distant. The one in need remains, the little one always present.
औसर बीता अल्पतन, पीव रहा परदेश। कलंक उतारो रामजी, भानो भरम अंदेश।।२१९७।।
The time of youth has passed, and my beloved remains far away. O Lord, remove the stain of doubt and deception.
अबकी जो सांई मिलै, सब दुख आंखो रोइ। चरणों ऊपर शिर धरों, कहूं जो कहना होइ।।२१९९।।
If I meet my Lord this time, I will weep away all my sorrows. I will place my head at His feet and say whatever is in my heart.
मांस मांस सब एक है, मुरगी हिरनी गाय। आंखि देखि नर खात है, ते नर नरकहिं जाय।।२२४१।।
Meat is meat, whether it is chicken, deer, or cow. When humans consume it, they will go to hell.
आठ बाट बकरी गई, सांस मुलां गये खाय। अजहूं खाल खटीकै, भीस्त कहांते जाय।।२२५४।।
The goat, split in eight parts, has been eaten by the priest. Even now, they scrape its skin; how will they reach heaven?
अंडा किन बिसमिल किया, घुन किया किन हलाल। मछली किन जबह करी, सब खाने का ख्याल।।२२५५।।
Who slaughtered the egg and made it permissible to eat? Who butchered the fish? Everyone is focused only on what they eat.
कबिरा काजी स्वाद बस, जीव हते तब दोय। चढ़ि मसीत एको कहै, क्यों दरगह सांचा होय।।२२६०।।
Kabir says, 'Driven by taste, the Qazi kills two lives. He climbs the mosque and asks, how can the truth be found in the afterlife?'
कमोदनीं जलहरि बसै, चंदा बसे अकासि। जो जाही का भावता, सो ताही कै पास।।२२६६।।
The lotus lives in the water, and the moon resides in the sky. Everyone goes where their heart desires.