Ego · अहंकार (ahamkara)

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.

आए हैं सो जाएंगे, राजा रंक फकीर। एक सिंहासन चढ़ चले, एक बँधे जात जंजीर।।१३।।

Those who have come will leave, whether they are kings, paupers, or saints. Some leave in grandeur on thrones, while others leave in chains.

माँगन मरण समान है, मति माँगो कोई भीख। माँगन से तो मरना भला, यह सतगुरु की सीख।।१४।।

Begging is akin to death; do not ask for alms. Better to die than to beg, such is the teaching of the true Guru.

गारी ही सों ऊपजै, कलह, कष्ट और मींच। हारि चले सो साधु है, लागि चले सो नीच।।१७।।

From harsh words arise conflict, suffering, and pain. The one who steps back is a saint, the one who retaliates is lowly.

हीरा वहाँ न खोलिए, जहाँ कुंजड़ों की हाट। बांधो चुप की पोटरी, लागहु अपनी बाट।।२०।।

Do not display your diamond where it is the market of junk dealers. Instead, tie the bundle of silence and move on your path.

बाज़ीगर का बांदरा, ऐसा जीव मन साथ। नाना नाच दिखाय के, राखे अपने साथ।।२४।।

The mind is like a juggler's monkey, it performs various tricks but always remains with its master.

कली खोटी, जग आंधरा, शब्द न माने कोय। चाहे कहे सत आइना, जो कहे सो बैरी होय।।३६।।

In this dark age, the world is blind and does not listen to the word of truth. Even if you present a clear mirror of truth, the world becomes hostile.

कामी, क्रोधी, लालची, इनसे भक्ति न होय। भक्ति करे कोइ सूरमा, जाति-वरन कुल खोय।।३७।।

Desires, anger, and greed hinder devotion. True devotion comes from a valiant person who forsakes caste, color, and family.

सुमरित सुरत जगाय कर, मुख से कछु न बोल। बाहर का पट बंद कर, अंदर का पट खोल।।४३।।

Awaken your awareness through remembrance, and speak not a word from your mouth. Close the door of the external and open the door of the inner self.

जब लगि भगति सकाम है, तब लग निष्फल सेव। कहै कबीर, वह क्यों मिले, निष्कामी तजि देव।।५१।।

As long as devotion is selfish, the service is fruitless. Kabir says, why should that devotee be honored who leaves selfless devotion?

फूटी आँख विवेक की, लखे न संत-असंत। जाके संग दस-बीस हैं, ताको नाम महंत।।५२।।

With the eye of wisdom gone blind, one cannot distinguish between the saint and the non-saint. The one who is surrounded by ten or twenty followers is considered a great soul.

जब मैं था, तब गुरु नहीं, अब गुरु हैं, मैं नाय। प्रेम गली अति साँकरी, ता में दो न समाय।।५५।।

When I was there, there was no guru; now that the guru is here, I am not. The path of love is very narrow; two cannot fit in it.

ऊँचे पानी न टिके, नीचे ही ठहराय। नीचा हो सो भरिए पिए, ऊँचा प्यासा जाय।।५७।।

Water cannot remain high; it settles at the bottom. The lower it is, the more it fills and quenches thirst, while the higher it is, it remains thirsty.

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.

जहाँ गाहक, तहाँ हूँ नहीं, जहाँ मैं गाहक नाँय। मूरख यह भरमत फिरे, पकड़ शब्द की छाँय।।६७।।

Where there are no customers, I am not there; where I am not a customer, there is no place for me. Fools wander about, grasping at the shadow of words.

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.

कांचै भांडे सम रहे, ज्यों कुम्हार की देह। भीतर राखे राखणा, बाहर चोई देह।।८५।।

Just as a clay pot is protected from within, the body is protected from the inside. The external appearance is like the clay pot itself.

केते दिन ऐसे गए, अनरुचि काको नेह। अवसर बोवै उपजै नहीं, जो न बरसै मेह।।८७।।

The days have passed without the affection of others. Opportunities do not arise if there is no rainfall.

अटकी भाल सरीर में, तीर भया है टूट। चुम्बक बिन निकसे नहीं, कोटि पढ़न को फूट।।९१।।

The arrow is stuck in the body, and it cannot be removed without a magnet. Millions of recitations will not remove it.

आस पराई राखता, खाया घर का खेत। औरन को पथ बोधता, मुख में डारे रेत।।९३।।

He who keeps others' hopes alive while eating the produce of his own field, shows others the way but hides sand in his mouth.

उतते कोई न आवई, पासूं पूछूं धाय। एते ही सब जात हैं, भार लदाय लदाय।।९६।।

No one comes to help when you rise; you ask for help from others. Everyone has their own burdens to carry.

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.

कबीरा गरब न कीजिए, कबहूँ न हंसिये कोय। अजहूँ नाव समुद्र में, का जाने का होय।।१००।।

Kabir advises not to be proud or laugh at others. Even if the boat is in the ocean, one does not know what will happen next.

कहता तो बहूँना मिले, गहना मिला न कोय। सो कहता वह जान दे, जो नहीं गहना कोय।।१०९।।

One who says he has everything does not possess any ornaments. He who speaks of having nothing truly possesses nothing.

कबिरा आप ठगाइए, और न ठगिए कोय। आप ठगे सुख होत है, और ठगे दुख होय।।११६।।

Kabir says, deceive yourself and not others. Deceiving yourself brings happiness, while deceiving others brings sorrow.

घी के तो दर्शन भले, खाना भला न तेल। दाना तो दुश्मन भला, मूरख का क्या मेल।।१२०।।

Seeing ghee (clarified butter) is good, but eating it is better than oil. Even a grain can be better than a foe; what is the use of being foolish?

ये तो घर है प्रेम का, खाला का घर नाहिं। सीस उतारे भुँई धरे, तब बैठें घर माहिं।।१३८।।

This is a house of love, not the house of a maternal uncle. Only when you remove your pride and place your head on the ground, can you sit in this home.

राम नाम चीन्हा नहीं, कीना पिंजर बास। नैन न आवे नीदरौं, अलग न आवे भास।।१३९।।

One does not recognize the name of Rama, though one lives in a cage (body). Sleep does not come to the eyes, and there is no distinct vision.

क्षमा बड़े न को उचित है, छोटे को उत्पात। कहा विष्णु का घटि गया, जो भुगु मारीलात।।१४७।।

Forgiveness is not appropriate for the mighty, but for the weak it causes chaos. Where did Vishnu’s vessel go, for it is bound to suffer the consequences.

राम-नाम कै पटं तरै, देबे कौं कुछ नाहिं। क्या ले गुर संतोषिए, हौंस रही मन माहिं।।१४८।।

By reciting the name of Ram, one crosses over, yet does not receive anything. What is there to be satisfied by the Guru, when the mind is still restless?

तू तू करता तू भया, मुझ में रही न हूँ। वारी फेरी बलि गई, जित देखौं तित तू।।१५४।।

You, you kept doing, and you became. I was not there within. Going around in circles, I am now lost in seeing you everywhere.

जो रोऊँ तो बल घटै, हँसो तो राम रिसाइ। मन ही माहिं बिसूरणा, ज्यूँ घुँण काठहिं खाइ।।१६०।।

If I cry, my strength diminishes; if I laugh, Ram becomes angry. Grieving within my mind is like wood being eaten by termites.

पहुँचेंगे तब कहैगें, उमड़ैंगे उस ठांई। आजहूं बेरा समंद मैं, बोलि बिगू पैं काई।।१६१।।

When we arrive, then we will say, 'We will overflow there.' Even now, at the shore, I am speaking in vain.

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.

कबीर कलि खोटी भई, मुनियर मिलै न कोइ। लालच लोभी मसकरा, तिनकूँ आदर होइ।।१६८।।

The Kali Yuga has become corrupt, and no sage is found. The greedy and deceitful are honored instead.

चतुराई सूवै पढ़ी, सोइ पंजर मांहि। फिरि प्रमोधै आन कौं, आपण समझे नाहिं।।१६९।।

Cleverness is learned and is contained in the cage. Then it delights in others, but fails to understand itself.

कबीर मन फूल्या फिरै, करता हूँ मैं घ्रंम। कोटि क्रम सिरि ले चल्या, चेत न देखै भ्रम।।१७०।।

Kabir's mind wanders, thinking that I am calm. Even after following millions of steps, awareness does not recognize the illusion.

हरि-रस पीया जाणिये, जे कबहुँ न जाइ खुमार। मैमता घूमत रहै, नाहि तन की सार।।१७१।।

One who drinks the nectar of Hari never experiences intoxication. The ego continues to roam, while the body remains worthless.

माया तजी तौ क्या भया, मानि तजि नही जाइ। मानि बड़े मुनियर मिले, मानि सबनि को खाइ।।१७८।।

What happens if one renounces illusion? The ego does not leave. Even if one meets great sages, the ego still consumes everyone.

करता दीसै कीरतन, ऊँचा करि करि तुंड। जाने-बूझै कुछ नहीं, यौं ही अंधा रुंड।।१७९।।

One may perform hymns loudly with raised hands, but if one does not understand or know, they are like a blind fool.

काजी-मुल्ला भ्रमियां, चल्या युनीं कै साथ। दिल थे दीन बिसारियां, करद लई जब हाथ।।१८४।।

The clerics and scholars wander around with their followers. They forget the essence of faith and only focus on rituals.

प्रेम-प्रिति का चालना, पहिरि कबीरा नाच। तन-मन तापर वारहुँ, जो कोइ बौलौ सांच।।१८५।।

The dance of love and affection, Kabir performs with delight. The true self is beyond body and mind, it is the essence of truth.

एक दिन ऐसा होएगा, सब सूँ पड़े बिछोइ। राजा राणा छत्रपति, सावधान किन होइ।।२०८।।

A day will come when everyone will lay down; kings, rulers, and warriors all will be rendered helpless.

कबीर कहा गरबियौ, काल कहै कर केस। ना जाणै कहाँ मारिसी, कै धरि के परदेस।।२११।।

Kabir says, why be proud? Death may strike you anytime, anywhere, and in any foreign land.

मैं-मैं बड़ी बलाइ है, सकै तो निकसौ भाजि। कब लग राखौ हे सखी, रुई लपेटी आगि।।२१५।।

I' is a great trouble; escape it if you can. How long can you keep fire wrapped in cotton, O friend?

माला पहिरै मनभुषी, ताथै कछू न होइ। मन माला को फैरता, जग उजियारा सोइ।।२१७।।

Wearing a rosary out of pride accomplishes nothing. The one who rotates the rosary of the mind brings light to the world.

चतुराई हरि ना मिलै, ए बातां की बात। एक निस प्रेही निरधार का, गाहक गोपीनाथ।।२२२।।

Cleverness won't bring you Hari; it's all talk. Only Gopinath is the buyer of the truly surrendered soul.

एष ले बूढ़ी पृथमी, झूठे कुल की लार। अलष बिसारयो भेष में, बूड़े काली धार।।२२३।।

This earth has aged, filled with false pride of lineage. Lazy and lost in appearances, they drown in the dark current.

सिंहों के लेहँड नहीं, हंसों की नहीं पाँत। लालों की नहि बोरियाँ, साध न चलै जमात।।२२४।।

Lions don't walk in herds, swans don't form flocks. Rubies aren't found in sacks, and saints don't move in crowds.

कबीर दुबिधा दूरि करि, एक अंग है लागि। यहु सीतल बहु तपति है, दोऊ कहिये आगि।।२३०।।

Kabir says, cast away doubt and focus on the One. Both cold and intense heat are forms of fire.

कबीर सोई सूरिमा, मन सूँ मांडै झूझ। पंच पयादा पाड़ि ले, दूरि करै सब दूज।।२३३।।

Kabir says, the true warrior is the one who fights with his mind. He conquers the five senses and removes all duality.

सिर साटें हरि सेवेये, छांड़ि जीव की बाणि। जे सिर दीया हरि मिलै, तब लगि हाणि न जाणि।।२३५।।

Serve Hari with your head bowed, leaving aside the words of the self. If you dedicate yourself to Hari, you will not experience any harm.

आपा भेटियाँ हरि मिलै, हरि मेट् या सब जाइ। अकथ कहाणी प्रेम की, कह्या न कोउ पत्याइ।।२३७।।

When one meets the self, they find Hari, and all other desires vanish. The indescribable story of love, no one can truly understand.

रोड़ा है रहो बाट का, तजि पाषंड अभिमान। ऐसा जे जन है रहै, ताहि मिलै भगवान।।२३९।।

The path is rocky; forsake hypocrisy and pride. Such a person who remains humble will meet God.

जिसहि न कोई विसहि तू, जिस तू तिस सब कोई। दरिगह तेरी सांइयाँ, जा मरूम कोइ होइ।।२४१।।

Those who do not admire you, admire you; those who admire you, do not.

एसी बाणी बोलिये, मन का आपा खोइ। औरन को सीतल करै, आपौ सीतल होइ।।२४२।।

Speak such words that dissolve the ego of the mind. If you make others calm, you too will become calm.

सुरति करौ मेरे साइयां, हम हैं भोजन माहिं। आपे ही बहि जाहिंगे, जौ नहिं पकरौ बाहिं।।२५०।।

O Lord, focus on us; we are the meal. If you do not hold on to us, we will leave on our own.

सतगुरु मिला जु जानिये, ज्ञान उजाला होय। भ्रम का भांड तोड़ि करि, रहै निराला होय।।२६८।।

When one meets the true Guru, enlightenment dawns. The vessel of delusion is shattered, and one remains unique.

सतगुरु को माने नही, अपनी कहै बनाय। कहै कबीर क्या कीजिये, और मता मन जाय।।२७०।।

One who does not accept the true Guru and follows his own made-up ideas, Kabir says, what can be done if the mind wanders to other opinions?

करहु छोड़ कुल लाज, जो सतगुरु उपदेश है। होये सब जिव काज, निश्चय करि परतीत करू।।२७५।।

Abandon your family pride if it conflicts with the true Guru's teachings. This will fulfill all life's goals, so have faith with certainty.

कबीर गुरु है घाट का, हाँटू बैठा चेल। मूड़ मुड़ाया साँझ कूँ, गुरु सबेरे ठेल।।२७९।।

Kabir says, the Guru is like a marketplace, and the disciple is a haggler. He shaves his head in the evening, but the Guru pushes him away in the morning.

गुरु बिचारा क्या करे, ह्रदय भया कठोर। नौ नेजा पानी चढ़ा, पथर न भीजी कोर।।२९०।।

What can the poor Guru do when the heart has become hard? No matter how much water is poured, the stone remains dry.

शिष्य पुजै आपना, गुरु पूजै सब साध। कहैं कबीर गुरु शीष को, मत है अगम अगाध।।२९२।।

The disciple worships his own ego, while the Guru worships all beings. Kabir says, the true Guru's wisdom is deep and unfathomable.

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.

कबीर चन्दर के भिरै, नीम भी चन्दन होय। बूड़यो बाँस बड़ाइया, यों जनि बूड़ो कोय।।२९८।।

Kabir says, in the company of the sandalwood tree, even the bitter neem tree becomes fragrant. But a bamboo tree, despite its height, sinks in water. Let no one sink like that.

साकट मन का जेवरा, भजै सो करराय। दो अच्छर गुरु बहिरा, बाधा जमपुर जाय।।३०३।।

The wicked person’s mind is like iron, and their words are harsh. If they cannot utter even two words of the Guru’s teachings, they will suffer in the cycle of birth and death.

कबीर साकट की सभा, तू मति बैठे जाय। एक गुवाड़े कदि बड़ै, रोज गदहरा गाय।।३०४।।

Kabir says, do not sit in the company of wicked people. Even if you join them for a moment, their negative influence will grow daily.

संगत सोई बिगुर्चई, जो है साकट साथ। कंचन कटोरा छाड़ि के, सनहक लीन्ही हाथ।।३०५।।

The company that associates with wickedness will be ruined. It is like leaving a golden bowl to hold a piece of coal.

साकट संग न बैठिये, करन कुबेर समान। ताके संग न चलिये, पड़ि हैं नरक निदान।।३०६।।

Do not sit with the wicked, even if they are as rich as Kubera. Do not walk with them, as it leads to hell.

टेक न कीजै बावरे, टेक माहि है हानि। टेक छाड़ि मानिक मिलै, सत गुरु वचन प्रमानि।।३०७।।

Do not be stubborn, O fool, as stubbornness leads to loss. Abandon it, and you will find gems; this is the true Guru’s teaching.

साकट सूकर कीकरा, तीनों की गति एक। कोटि जतन परमोघिये, तऊ न छाड़े टेक।।३०८।।

The wicked, the pig, and the thorn tree all have the same nature. Despite a million efforts, they do not change their ways.

हरिजन आवत देखिके, मोहड़ो सूखि गयो। भाव भक्ति समझयो नहीं, मूरख चूकि गयो।।३०९।।

Seeing the devotee of God, the wicked person’s face becomes pale. They do not understand the essence of devotion and miss the true path.

खसम कहावै बैरनव, घर में साकट जोय। एक धरा में दो मता, भक्ति कहाँ ते होय।।३१०।।

The master may call her a wicked woman, but if there is a wicked person in the house, how can true devotion exist where there are two opposing ideas?

घर में साकट स्त्री, आप कहावे दास। वो तो होगी शूकरी, वो रखवाला पास।।३११।।

If a wicked woman is in the house, she may call herself a servant, but she is actually like a pig, and the guardian is near.

आँखों देखा घी भला, न मुख मेला तेल। साघु सो झगड़ा भला, ना साकट सों मेल।।३१२।।

Seeing clarified butter with your eyes is good, but if your mouth is oily, it is not useful. It is better to have a dispute with a saint than to have a friendship with a wicked person.

आवत साधु न हरखिया, जात न दीया रोय। कहै कबीर वा दास की, मुक्ति कहाँ से होय।।३२१।।

When a saint arrives, there is no joy or sorrow. Kabir says, where will liberation come for the servant who is indifferent?

साधु-साधु सब एक है, जस अफीम का खेत। कोई विवेकी लाल है, और सेत का सेत।।३३७।।

The wise are all the same, like the field of opium. Some are red as a precious stone, and others are simply common.

सदा कृपालु दु:ख परिहरन, बैर भाव नहिं दोय। छिमा ज्ञान सत भाखही, सिंह रहित तु होय।।३४०।।

Always compassionate and removing sorrows, free from feelings of enmity. Forgiveness and wisdom are his speech, without pride like a lion.

आज काल के लोग हैं, मिलि कै बिछुरी जाहिं। लाहा कारण आपने, सौगन्ध राम कि खाहिं।।३४६।।

People of today meet and then part ways. They seek their own gain, swearing by Ram's name.

सन्त समागम परम सुख, जान अल्प सुख और। मान सरोवर हंस है, बगुला ठौरे ठौर।।३४९।।

The meeting of saints brings supreme happiness, which is known to be greater than all other pleasures. The swan resides in the lake of honor, while the heron dwells in its own place.

फाली फूली गाडरी, ओढ़ि सिंह की खाल। साँच सिंह जब आ मिले, गाडर कौन हवाल।।३७१।।

A jackal dressed in a lion's skin may seem mighty, but when a real lion arrives, the jackal's disguise is worthless.

अजहूँ तेरा सब मिटैं, जो मानै गुरु सीख। जब लग तू घर में रहै, मति कहुँ माँगे भीख।।३७३।।

Even now, all your misdeeds will be erased if you accept the guru's teachings. As long as you remain at home, seeking alms is futile.

आब गया आदर गया, नैनन गया सनेह। यह तीनों तब ही गये, जबहिं कहा कुछ देह।।३७५।।

When you say 'give me something,' respect, honor, and affection all go away. These three depart only when you ask for something.

अनमाँगा उत्तम कहा, मध्यम माँगि जो लेय। कहैं कबीर निकृष्टि सो, पर धर धरना देय।।३७६।।

Not asking is the best; asking and receiving is average. Kabir says, asking for something lowers one's dignity.

साखी शब्द बहुतक सुना, मिटा न मन क मोह। पारस तक पहुँचा नहीं, रहा लोह का लोह।।३८८।।

One may hear many words of wisdom, but if the mind's attachment is not removed, it is like iron that has not reached the touchstone; it remains as iron.

जो छोड़े तो आँधरा, खाये तो मरि जाय। ऐसे संग छछून्दरी, दोऊ भाँति पछिताय।।३९२।।

If you abandon it, you will face hardship; if you consume it, you will die. Such is the regret of the leech, which suffers in both ways.

तरुवर जड़ से काटिया, जबै सम्हारो जहाज। तारै पर बोरे नहीं, बाँह गहे की लाज।।३९६।।

If a tree is cut at its root, the ship cannot be controlled. There is no shame in clinging to the mast of the ship.

तेल तिली सौ ऊपजै, सदा तेल को तेल। संगति को बेरो भयो, ताते नाम फुलेल।।४०१।।

Oil yields from the seeds, always the oil from the seeds. The fruit of association is similar, and thus the name flourishes.

तू तू करूं तो निकट है, दुर-दुर करू हो जाय। जों गुरु राखै त्यों रहै, जो देवै सो खाय।।४०४।।

When I say 'You, you,' it seems close, but when I say 'far, far,' it seems distant. Only what the guru preserves remains, and what is given by others is consumed.

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.

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.

पकी हुई खेती देखि के, गरब किया किसान। अजहुँ झोला बहुत है, घर आवै तब जान।।४२७।।

Seeing the ripe harvest, the farmer feels proud. Only when the bag is full will he understand.

मलमल खासा पहिनते, खाते नागर पान। टेढ़ा होकर चलते, करते बहुत गुमान।।४२९।।

Wearing fine muslin and eating betel leaves, They walk in a crooked manner, full of pride.

कुल करनी के कारने, ढिग ही रहिगो राम। कुल काकी लाजि है, जब जमकी धूमधाम।।४३०।।

Due to the deeds of the lineage, Ram remains steadfast. The shame of lineage is only when there is grandeur in death.

बारी-बारी आपने, चले पियारे मीत। तेरी बारी जीयरा, नियरे आवै नीत।।४३३।।

One by one, dear friends come and go. In your turn, the heart does not come near regularly.

जिन घर नौबत बाजती, होत छतीसों राग। सो घर भी खाली पड़े, बैठने लागे काग।।४३५।।

In the houses where the drum is played, there are thirty-six tunes. Even such houses remain empty, and crows sit there.

समुझाये समुझे नहीं, धरे बहुत अभिमान। गुरु का शब्द उछेद है, कहत सकल हम जान।।४३७।।

One who is taught does not understand, holding much pride. The words of the Guru are an antidote; we all know this.

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.

धरती करते एक पग, समुंद्र करते फाल। हाथों परबत लौलते, ते भी खाये काल।।४४४।।

With one step, they traverse the earth; with a leap, they cross the seas. They can roll mountains in their hands, yet time devours them too.

गाँठि होय सो हाथ कर, हाथ होय सी देह। आगे हाट न बानिया, लेना होय सो लेह।।४४९।।

What is tied in a knot is handled by the hand; the hand is the body. The market does not wait; take what you need.

सोना सज्जन साधुजन, टूट जुड़े सौ बार। दुर्जन कुंभ कुम्हार के, एके धक्का दरार।।४५४।।

Gold and virtuous saints may break and rejoin a hundred times. The wicked, like a clay pot, breaks with a single blow.

मरण भला तब जानिए, छूट जाए हंकार। जग की मरनी क्यों मरें, दिन में सौसौ बार।।४५५।।

Death is only understood when pride is shed. Why die the worldly death, a hundred times a day?

साधो रण में मिट रहा, टूटन दे हंकार। जग की मरनी क्यों मरें, दिन में सौसौ बार।।४५६।।

The saints are destroyed in battle, relinquishing their pride. Why die the worldly death, a hundred times a day?

गगन दमामा बाजिया, पड़े निसाने घाव। खेत बुहारे सूरमा, मोहे मरण का चाव।।४५८।।

The sky reverberates with drums, but the marks of wounds remain. The field is ploughed by warriors, I yearn for death.

आपा मेटे हरि मिले, हरि मेटे सब जाई। अकथ कहानी प्रेम की, कोई नहीं पतियाय।।४६३।।

When the self is erased, one meets the Divine. When the Divine is realized, everything else fades away. The story of love is beyond words; no one understands it.

भागे भला न होएगा, कहा धरोगे पाव। सिर सौंपो सीधे लड़ो, काहे करौ कुदाव।।४६६।।

Running away will not do any good, where will you go with your feet? Surrender your head and fight directly, why act foolishly?

कहैं क‍बीर तजि भरम को, नन्‍हा है कर पीव। तजि अहँ गुरु चरण गहु, जमसों बाचै जीव।।४८२।।

Kabir says to abandon delusions, as the child (soul) should hold onto the Guru’s feet. By forsaking ego and taking refuge in the Guru’s feet, one can be freed from the cycle of birth and death.

गुरु सों ज्ञान जो लीजिए, सीस दीजिए दान। बहुतक भोंदू बहि गये, राखि जीव अभिमान।।४८३।।

When receiving knowledge from the Guru, offer your head as a donation. Many have gone astray due to pride, so protect the soul by offering humility.

गुरु गोविन्‍द दोउ एक हैं, दूजा सब आकार। आपा मेटैं हरि भजैं, तब पावे दीदार।।४८४।।

Guru and God are one; all other forms are transient. By eliminating the ego and worshiping the Lord, one can attain the vision of the divine.

अबुध सुबुध सुत मातु पितु, सबहि करै प्रतिपाल। अपनी ओर निबाहिये, सिख सुत गहि निज चाल।।४८६।।

The ignorant and the wise, sons and parents, all provide support and care. One should focus on their own conduct and follow their own path.

कबीर बेड़ा सार का, ऊपर लादा सार। पापी का पापी गुरु, यो बूड़ा संसार।।५१९।।

Kabir says, a boat made of straw, laden with more straw, will sink. A sinful Guru will lead the sinful world to its downfall.

देश देशान्‍तर मैं फिरुं, मानुष बड़ा सुकाल। जा देख सुख उपजे, वाका पड़ा दुकाल।।५३८।।

Traveling from country to country, humanity finds great ease. Wherever there is happiness, there is also suffering.

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.

साकट का मुख बिंब है, निकसत बचन भुवंग। ताकी औषधि मौन है, विष नहिं व्‍यापै अंग।।५४९।।

The face of the wicked is like a snake, whose words are poisonous. The remedy for such a person is silence, as poison does not spread if the body is not exposed to it.

हरिजन की लातां भलीं, बुरि साकट की बात। लातों में सुख ऊपजे, बाते इज्‍जत जात।।५५६।।

The kick of a Harijan is better, than the praise of a miser. Happiness arises from kicks, while respect comes from words.

साधु आवत देखि के, मन में करै मरोर। सो तो होसी चूहरा, बसै गांव की खोर।।५८४।।

When a saint arrives, if someone feels discomfort in their mind, that person is like a scavenger living in the village outskirts.

साधु साधु सब बड़े हैं, जस पस्‍ते का खेत। कोई विवेकी लाल हैं, और सेत का सेत।।५९९।।

All saints are great, like fields of crops. Some are wise and pure, and some are full of virtues.

आशा तजि माया तजै, मोह तजै अरु मान। हरष शोक निंदा तजै, कहैं कबीर संत जान।।६०५।।

A saint abandons hope, illusion, attachment, and pride. He renounces joy, sorrow, and criticism. This is what Kabir describes as a true saint.

साधु सती और सूरमा, राखा रहै न ओट। माथा बांधि पताक सों, नेजा घालैं चोट।।६१४।।

A saint, sage, and warrior do not hide behind a shield. With their heads adorned with flags, they face all challenges bravely.

जाति न पूछो साधु की, पूछि लीजिये ज्ञान। मोल करो तलवार का, पड़ा रहन दो म्‍यान।।६२१।।

Do not inquire about the caste of a saint, but ask about their knowledge. The value of the sword should be assessed, not the scabbard.

संत समागम परम सुख, जान अल्‍प सुख और। मान सरोवर हंस है, बगुला ठौर ठौर।।६२४।।

The company of saints is supreme bliss; know that worldly pleasures are minor. The swan swims in the lake of honor, while the heron stays at different places.

बाना पहिरे सिंह का, चलै भेड़ की चाल। बोली बोले सियार की, कुत्ता खावै काल।।६३४।।

Dressing like a lion but walking like a sheep, speaking like a jackal, the dog meets its end.

मांगन मरण समान है, तोहि दई मैं सीख। कहैं कबीर समुझाय के, मति कोई मांगै भीख।।६४४।।

Begging is akin to death; this is what I teach you. Kabir says, those who ask for alms are like those who beg for their lives.

मांगन गये सो मर रहे, मरै जु मांगन जांहि। तिनतें पहले वे मरे, होत करत हैं नाहि।।६४८।।

Those who go begging are dying, and those who die begging are dead before their time. They are not engaged in any meaningful action.

भुवंगम बास न बेधई, चन्‍दन दोष न लाय। सब अंग तो विष सों भरा, अमृत कहां समाय।।६४९।।

The bhujanga (serpent) does not harm, and sandalwood does not have faults. If the body is filled with poison, where can nectar reside?

कबीर गुरु के देश में, बसि जानै जो कोय। कागा ते हंसा बने, जाति बरन कुल खोय।।६५२।।

Kabir says that one who lives in the land of the guru and knows it is like a crow that has become a swan, losing caste, color, and lineage.

ऊंचे कुल कह जनमिया, करनी ऊंच न होय। कनक कलश मद सो भरा, साधुन निन्‍दा सोय।।६५६।।

Even if one is born into a high caste, their actions may not be high. A pot filled with gold is still filled with wine; so is a person who criticizes the saints.

सेवक स्‍वामी एक मत, मत में मत मिलि जाय। चतुराई रीझै नहीं, रीझै मन के भाया।।६७३।।

A true servant's mind aligns with the master's; cunningness doesn't win favor, but a heart aligned with devotion does.

फल कारन सेवा करै, निशि-दिन जांचै राम। कहें कबीर सेवक नहीं, चाहै चौगुन दाम।।६७५।।

If one serves for the sake of reward, constantly seeking divine validation, Kabir says, such a person is not a true servant.

सेवक सेवा में रहै, सेवक कहिये सोय। कहैं कबीर सेवा बिना, सेवक कभी न होय।।६७९।।

A true servant is one who remains devoted to service. Kabir says, without service, one cannot be called a servant.

ज्ञानी अभिमानी नहीं, सब काहु सो हेत। सत्‍यवान परमाथी, आदर भाव सहेत।।६८१।।

A wise person is not proud; they are devoted to the welfare of all. The truthful are supreme, embracing respect and humility.

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?

दास कहावन कठिन है, मैं दासन का दास। अब तो होय रहूं, पांव तले की घास।।६९३।।

To be called a servant is difficult; I am a servant of servants. Now, I remain like the grass underfoot.

कबीर गुरु सबको चहै, गुरु को चहै न कोय। जब लग आश शरीर की, तब लग दास न होय।।६९६।।

Kabir says, the Guru desires for everyone, but no one desires the Guru. As long as there is hope in the body, one cannot be a true servant.

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.

जब लग नाता जाति का, तब लग भक्ति न होय। नाता तोड़े गुरु भजै, भक्ति कहावे सोय।।७०२।।

As long as one clings to caste and lineage, true devotion is not achieved. One must break these attachments and worship the guru for true devotion.

प्रेम बिना जो भक्ति है, सो निज दंभ विचार। उदर भरन के कारन, जन्‍म गंवाये सार।।७०३।।

Devotion without love is mere hypocrisy. It is a result of seeking to fill one's own needs, rendering the birth useless.

जाति बरन कुल खोय के, भक्ति करै चितलाय। कहैं कबीर सतगुरु मिले, आवागमन निशाय।।७०५।।

One who performs devotion by renouncing caste, class, and lineage achieves true devotion. Kabir says, upon meeting the true guru, one escapes the cycle of birth and death.

भक्ति सोई जो भाव सों, इक मन चित को राख। सांच शील सो खेलिए, मैं तें दोऊ नाख।।७१८।।

True devotion is that which remains in a single mind and heart. Let us play with true virtue; I do not desire either of the two.

लेने को गुरु नाम है, देने को अन्‍न दान।। तरने को आधीनता, बूड़न को अभिमान।।७३८।।

To receive, there is the name of the Guru; to give, there is the offering of food. For crossing over, there is humility; for sinking, there is pride.

वाद करै सो जानिये, निगरे का वह काम। संतो को फुरसत नहीं, सुमिरन करते राम।।७७७।।

One who engages in arguments is a miser. The saints have no time for disputes; they are busy remembering Ram.

जाकी गांठी राम है, ताके हैं सब सिद्धि। कर जोड़ी ठाढ़ी सबै, अष्‍ट सिद्धि नव निद्धि।।७८३।।

One who has Ram in his heart, all achievements are his. With folded hands, he possesses all the eight and nine siddhis.

दुख में सुमिरन सब करै, सुख में करै न कोय। जो सुख में सुमिरन कर, तो दुख काहे को होय।।७९२।।

Everyone remembers in sorrow, but no one does in happiness. If one remembers in happiness, then why would sorrow exist?

तू तू करता तू भया, तुझ में रहा समाय। तुझ मांहि मन मिलि रहा, अब कहुं अनत न जाय।।७९५।।

You are, you do, you become; you reside within yourself. The mind merges with you; now there is no end to it.

यह तो घर है प्रेम का, ऊंचा अधिक इकंत। शीष काटि पग तर धरै, तब पैठे कोई संत।।८०५।।

This is the abode of love, exalted and solitary. One must cut off their head and place their feet there to enter this sacred place.

प्रीति ताहि सो कीजिये, जो आप समाना होय। कबहुक जो अवगुन पड़ै, गुन ही लहै समोय।।८११।।

Love is for that which merges with the self. When faults arise, one should absorb the virtues and merge with them.

जब मैं था तब हरि नहीं, अब हरि है मैं नाहिं। प्रेम गली अति सांकरी, तामें दो न समांहि।।८३२।।

When I was, there was no Hari; now Hari is, but I am not. The path of love is very narrow, in it two cannot fit.

यह तो घर है प्रेम का, खाला का घर नाहिं। शीष उतारै भुई धरै, तब पैठे घर माहिं।।८३३।।

This is the home of love, not of the maternal uncle's house. One must remove the headgear and place it on the ground to enter this home.

कबीर खेत किसान का, मिरगन खाया झारि।। खेत बिचारा क्‍या करै, धनी करै नहिं वारि।।८३७।।

Kabir says, the field belongs to the farmer, but the deer have eaten the crop. What can the helpless field do? The owner does not care about it.

मैं मेरी तू जनि करै, मेरी मूल विनासि। मेरी पग का पैखड़ा, मेरी गल की फांसि।।८४५।।

Do not consider 'I' as 'myself'; it destroys the essence of my being. The burden on my feet and the noose around my neck are all because of this.

मोर तोर की जेवरी, गल बंधा संसार। दास कबीरा क्‍यों बंधौ, जाके नाम अधार।।८४६।।

The jewel of 'mine' and 'yours' binds the world. Why should I, the servant Kabir, be bound, when I rely on the name of Ram?

मरुं मरुं सब कोइ कहै, मेरी मरै बलाय। मरना था सो मरि चुका, अब को मरने जाय।।८५०।।

Everyone says 'I am dying, my death is inevitable.' If I had to die, I have already died; now who will die?

तन सराय मन पाहरु, मनसा उतरी आय। को काहू का है नहीं, देखा ठोंकि बजाय।।८५२।।

The body is an inn, the mind is a guest. The mind has come down from its desires. Nothing belongs to anyone; it is all merely observed and abandoned.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, ऊंचा देखि अवास। काल परे भुंई लेटना, ऊपर जमसी घास।।८५४।।

Kabir, do not be proud, even if you see a high dwelling. Beyond time, the ground remains; above, only grass grows.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, चाम लपेटे हाड़। हय बर ऊपर छत्र तट, तो भी देवे गाड़।।८५८।।

Kabir, do not be proud, you are just bones covered with skin. Even if you have a canopy over your head, you will still be buried.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, काल गहे कर केश। ना जानौ कित मारि हैं, क्‍या घर क्‍या परदेस।।८६१।।

Kabir, do not be proud, death has grabbed your hair. You do not know when it will strike, whether at home or abroad.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, इस जोबन की आस। टेसू फूला दिवस दस, खंखर भया पलास।।८६२।।

Kabir, do not be proud of youth, it will not last long. Just as the palash flower blooms for ten days and then dries up.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, देही देखि सुरंग। बिछुरे पै मेला नहीं, ज्‍यों केचुली भुजंग।।८६३।।

Kabir, do not be proud seeing the beauty of the body. Once separated, it will not meet again, like the snake sheds its skin.

कबीर जंत्र न बाजई, टूट गये सब तार। जंत्र बिचारा क्‍या करै, जब चला बजावन हार।।८६४।।

Kabir, the instrument is not playing, all its strings are broken. What can the poor instrument do, when the player has left?

कबीर केवल नाम कह, शुद्ध गरीबी चाल। कूर बड़ाई बूड़सी, भारी परसी झाल।।८६७।।

Kabir says, speak only the name of God and live a life of pure simplicity. False pride will drown you like a heavy stone in water.

अहिरन की चोरी करै, करे सुई का दान। ऊंचा चढ़‍ि कर देखता, केतिक दूर विमान।।८७१।।

He steals from the poor but donates a needle. He climbs high to see how far the airplane is.

कबीर बेड़ा जरजरा, कूड़ा खेवन हार। हरुये हरुये तरि गये, बूड़े जिन सिर भार।।८७५।।

Kabir, the boat is fragile, and the boatman is weak. Those who have faith crossed safely, but those burdened with pride sank.

तू मति जाने बावरे, मेरा है सब कोय। प्रान पिण्‍ड सो बंधि रहा, सो नहिं अपना होय।।८८०।।

Don't be foolish and think that everything is yours. Even your life and body, bound together, are not truly your own.

काल चक्र चक्‍की चलै, बहुत दिवस औ रात। सगुन निगुन दोय पाटला, तामें जीव पिसात।।८८२।।

The wheel of time grinds day and night, With virtues and vices as the grinding stones, and the soul is ground between them.

मेरा संगी कोय नहिं, सबै स्‍वारथी लोय। मन परतीति न ऊपजै, जिय विस्‍वास न होय।।८८३।।

I have no true companions, everyone is selfish. Trust doesn't arise in my mind, and there is no belief in my heart.

राजपाट धन पायके, क्‍यों करता अभिमान। पड़ासी की जो दशा, भई सो अपनी जान।।८९२।।

Why be proud after gaining wealth and power? The fate that befell your neighbor will soon be yours.

कहा चुनावै मेड़‍िया, चूना माटी लाय। मीच सुनैगां पापिनी, दौरि कि लेगी आय।।८९८।।

Where is the media election, bringing clay and dust? The sinner will hear, running to fetch the truth.

खलक मिला खाली हुआ, बहुत किया बकवाद। बांझ हिलावै पालना, तामें कौन स्‍वाद।।९०२।।

The world becomes empty with much talk and argument. A barren cradle shakes; what pleasure does it hold?

माटी कहै कुम्हार सो, क्‍यों तू रौंदे मोहि। एक दिन ऐसा होयगा, मैं रौदूंगी तोहि।।९०५।।

The clay says to the potter, 'Why do you trample on me?' One day will come when I will trample on you.

ऊंचा दीसै धौहरा, मांडो चीटां पोल। एक गुरु के नाम बिना, जम मारेंगे रोल।।९११।।

The high is seen as a double ridge, and the ant is caught in the net. Without the name of a guru, Yama will roll you over.

कबीर केवल नाम की, जब लगि दीपक बाति। तेल घटै बाती बुझै, तब सोवे दिन-राति।।९१४।।

Kabir speaks of the name as the wick of a lamp. When the oil depletes and the wick burns out, then day and night cease.

कुल करनी के कारनै, हंसा गया बिगाय। तब कुल काको लाजि है, चारि पांव का होय।।९१५।।

Due to the actions of the family, the swan has become flawed. Then what is the shame for the family, if it affects the four-legged?

पाकी खेती देखि के, गरबहिं किया किसान। अजहूं झोला बहुत है, घर आवै तब जान।।९२२।।

Seeing clean farming, the farmer is proud. Even now, the bag is full, only when he returns home will he realize.

यह औसर चेत्‍या नहीं, पशु ज्‍यौं पाली देह। राम नाम जान्‍यो नहीं, अन्‍त पड़े मुख खेह।।९२३।।

This opportunity is not recognized, like animals maintaining the body. Not knowing the name of Ram, in the end, one faces suffering.

दुनिया के धोखै मआ, चला कुटुंब की कानि। तब कुल की क्‍या लाज है, जब ले धरा मसानि।।९२७।।

Deceived by the world, the family’s reputation is questioned. What is the pride of lineage when the earth becomes a cremation ground?

ऊजड़ खेड़े टेकरी, घड़‍ि घड़‍ि गये कुम्‍हार। रावन जैसा चलि गया, लंका को सरदार।।९३४।।

The deserted place and the potter have gone repeatedly. Like Ravana, who went to Lanka as a leader.

भय से भक्ति करै सबै, भय से पूजा होय। भय पारस है जीव को, निरभय हाय न कोय।।९३५।।

Everyone worships out of fear, and worship happens through fear. Fear is the touchstone for life, there is no one who is fearless.

मन राजा नायक भया, टांडा लादा जाय। है है है है ह्वै रही, पूंजी गयी बिलाय।।९३९।।

The mind has become the king and the hero, but the baggage of life is heavy. Alas, the wealth is gone and the misery remains.

अति हठ मत कर बावरे, हठ से बात न होय। ज्‍यूं ज्‍यूं भीजे कामरी, त्‍यूं त्‍यूं भारी होय।।९४८।।

Do not be excessively stubborn, for stubbornness does not help. As the cloth gets wet, it becomes heavier.

तीन ताप में ताप हैं, ताका अनंत उपाय। ताप आतम महाबली, संत बिना नहिं जाय।९५४।।

There are three types of heat, and countless remedies for them. But the heat of the self can only be resolved by a true saint.

या दुनिया में आय के, छांडि देय तू ऐंठ। लेना है सो लेय ले, उठी जात है पैंठ।।९६१।।

Having come into this world, abandon your arrogance. Take what you need, as the market is about to close.

मान अभिमान न कीजिये, कहैं कबीर पुकार। जो सिर साधु न नमैं, तो सिर काटि उतार।।९६२।।

Do not be proud, Kabir proclaims loudly. If the head does not bow to the saint, it should be cut off.

कबीर तहां न जाइये, जहं तो कुल को हेत। साधुपनो जानै नहीं, नाम बाप को लेत।।९७५।।

Kabir says, do not go where there is attachment to family lineage. Where they do not understand sainthood, and take pride in their family name.

कबीर संगी साधु का, दल आया भरपूर। इन्द्रिन को तब बांधिया, या तन कीया घूर।।९७६।।

Kabir says, when the company of saints arrives in full force, Only then are the senses controlled, and the body turned to ashes.

ऐसी बानी बोलिये, मन का आपा खोय। औरन को शीतल करै, आपहु शीतल होय।।९७७।।

Speak such words that the ego is lost. They soothe others and also bring peace to oneself.

जग में बैरी कोय नहीं, जो मन शीतल होय। या आपा को डारि दे, दया करे सब कोय।।९८०।।

In the world, there is no enemy if the mind is calm. Abandon your ego, and everyone will show compassion.

गारी ही से ऊपजै, कलह कष्‍ट औ मीच। हरि चले सो सन्‍त है, लागि मरै सो नीच।।९८७।।

From abuse arise conflicts, pain, and destruction. Those who walk with Hari are saints; those who fall are lowly.

कुटिल बचन नहिं बोलिये, शीतल बैन ले चीन्हि। गंगा जल शीतल भया, परबत फोड़ तीन्हि।।९९२।।

Do not speak harsh words, recognize the value of soft speech. The Ganga water became cool, but it broke through mountains.

शीतल शब्‍द उचारिये, अहं आनिये नाहिं। तेरा प्रीतम तुझहि में, दुसमन भी तुझ माहिं।।९९४।।

Speak gentle words, do not bring in ego. Your beloved is within you, as is your enemy.

शब्‍द कहै सो कीजिये, बहुतक गुरु लबार। अपने अपने लाभ को, ठौर ठौर बटपार।।९९५।।

Do what the word says, many gurus are deceivers. Each one looks for their own gain, everywhere they bargain.

कुबुधि कमानी चढ़‍ि रही, कुटिल बचन के तीर। भरि भरि मारे कान में, सालै सकल सरीर।।९९९।।

Wickedness is like a bow, and cruel words are its arrows. These words strike the ears repeatedly and pierce the entire body.

शब्‍द जु ऐसा बोलिये, मन का आपा खोय। औरन को शीतल करे, आपहुं शीतल होय।।१००५।।

Speak words in such a way that the ego of the mind is lost. Let your words soothe others, and you too will become serene.

जिह्वा में अमृत बसै, जो कोई जानै बोल। विष बासुकि का ऊतरे, जिह्वा तनै हिलोल।।१०२२।।

Nectar resides on the tongue of one who knows how to speak. Even the poison of the serpent can be overcome with a wise tongue.

एक शब्‍द सुख खानि है, एक शब्‍द दुख रासि। एक शब्‍द बन्‍धन काटै, एक शब्‍द गल फांसि।।१०२८।।

One word can be a source of joy, and another a cause of sorrow. One word can break bonds, and another can ensnare the neck.

जीवन में मरना भला, जो मरि जानै कोय। मरना पह‍िले जो मरै, अजर अमर सो होय।।१०२९।।

It is better to die while living, if one knows how. One who dies before death, becomes eternal and immortal.

जब लग आश शरीर की, मिरतक हुआ न जाय। काया माया मन तजै, चौडे़ रहा बजाय।।१०३१।।

As long as there is attachment to the body, one is not truly dead. When one renounces body, illusion, and mind, they achieve true liberation.

मैं मेरा घर जालिया, लिया पलीता हाथ। जो घर जारो आपना, चलो हमारे साथ।।१०३६।।

I have burned my house, taking the torch in hand. Those who burn their own house, come with me.

मैं जानूं मन मरि गया, मरि के हुआ भूत। मूये पीछे उठि लगा, ऐसा मेरा पूत।।१०३७।।

I thought my mind was dead and became a ghost. But after dying, it arose again, just like my own child.

शब्‍द विचारी जो चले, गुरुमुख होय निहाल। काम क्रोध व्‍यापै नहीं, कबहूं न ग्रासै काल।।१०३८।।

Those who walk with consideration of the word and are aligned with the Guru, are blessed. Lust and anger do not affect them, and death never consumes them.

सुर सती का सहज है, घड़ी इक का घमसान। मरै न जीवै मरजिवा, धमकत रहे मसान।।१०३९।।

The state of a true saint is natural, but it can be turbulent for a moment. Neither fully dead nor alive, they hover around the cremation ground.

आस पास जोधा खड़े, सबे बजावै गाल। मंझ महल ते ले चला, ऐसा परबत काल।।१०४१।।

Warriors stand all around, all boasting loudly. But when Death arrives, he takes them away from their palaces.

काल फिरै सिर ऊपरे, हाथों धरी कमान। कहैं कबीर गहु नाम को, छोड़ सकल अभिमान।।१०४९।।

Death hovers over your head with a bow in hand. Kabir says, hold onto the name (of God) and abandon all pride.

चहुं दिस ठाढ़े सूरमा, हाथ मिले हथियार। सबही यह तन देखता, काल ले गया मार।।१०५४।।

Warriors stand ready in all directions, weapons in hand. Yet, even they watch as Death takes their body away.

कबीर जीवन कुछ नहीं, खिन खारा खिन मीठ। काल्हि अलहजा मारिया, आज मसाना दीठ।।१०७८।।

Kabir says life is nothing, moments are both bitter and sweet. Yesterday was full of lament, today is a scene of mourning.

हाथों परबत फाड़ते, समुन्‍दर घट भराय। ते मुनिवर धरती गले, का कोई गरब कराय।।१०८३।।

Mountains are torn by hands, and the oceans fill up. The sage embraces the earth, what can pride achieve?

काची काया मन अथिर, थिर थिर करम करन्‍त। ज्‍यौं-ज्‍यौं नर निधड़क फिरै, त्‍यौं त्‍यौं काल हसन्‍त।।१०८५।।

The body is fragile and the mind unstable, yet one performs steady deeds. As the fearless person moves, time laughs at them.

स्‍वारथ का सबको सगा, सारा ही जग जान। बिन स्‍वारथ आदर करै, सो नर चतुर सुजान।।१०८९।।

Everyone is dear to themselves, the whole world knows this. One who shows respect without self-interest is truly wise and learned.

स्‍वारथ कूं स्‍वारथ मिले, पड़‍ि पड़‍ि लूंबा बूंब। निस्‍प्रेही निरधार को, कोय न राखे झूंब।।१०९०।।

Self-interest leads to self-interest, resulting in endless cycles. The unattached and indifferent remain unperturbed by such cycles.

आप स्‍वारथी मेदिनी, भक्ति स्‍वारथी दास। कबीर जन परमार्थी, डारी तन की आस।।१०९४।।

You are self-interested earth, devotion is self-interested servant. Kabir's followers are selfless, abandoning attachment to the body.

परमारथ पाको रतन, कबहुं न दीजै पीठ। स्‍वारथ सेमन फूल है, कली अपूठी पीठ।।१०९६।।

True selflessness is a precious gem, never give it up. Self-interest is like a flower, while the bud is unripe.

जो कोय करे सो स्‍वारथी, अरस परस गुन देत। बिन किया करै सो सुरमा, परमारथ के हेत।।१०९८।।

The one who does something for personal gain is selfish, giving superficial virtues. One who acts without any selfish motive is a true hero, for the sake of selflessness.

स्‍वारथ सूका लाकड़ा, छांह बिहूना सूल। पीपल परमारथ भजो, सुख सागर को मूल।।१०९९।।

Self-interest is like a dry stick, without shade or comfort. Worship the Peepal tree of selflessness, which is the source of the ocean of happiness.

कबीर यह मन मसखरा, कहूं तो मानै रोस। जा मारग साहिब मिलै, तहां न चालै कोस।।११०२।।

Kabir says that this mind is a jester, and it becomes angry if scolded. On the path where the Master is found, it does not measure distance.

कुंभै बांधा जल रहै, जल बिन कुंभ न होय। ज्ञानै बांध बन रहै, मन बिनु ज्ञान न होय।।११०३।।

A pot holds water, and without water, the pot has no value. Knowledge is bound by the mind, and without the mind, knowledge does not exist.

काया देवल मन धजा, विषय लहर फहराय। मन चलते देवल चले, ताका सरबस जाय।।११०५।।

The body is a temple, and the mind is its flag. When the mind moves, the temple moves along with it; thus, everything follows.

अपने अपने चोर को, सब कोय डारै मार। मेरा चोर मुझको मिलै, सरबस डारुं वार।।११११।।

Everyone punishes the thief within others, but the thief within me I punish myself. I punish everyone with this realization.

तन का बैरी कोइ नहीं, जो मन शीतल होय। तूं आपा को डारि दे, दया करे सब कोय।।१११३।।

There is no enemy of the body if the mind is calm. When you abandon ego, everyone becomes compassionate.

महमंता मन मारि ले, घट ही मांही घेर। जल ही चालै पीठ दे, आंकूस दे दे फेर।।१११९।।

Kill the egoistic mind and surround yourself with purity. Let the water flow from the back and control it with a discipline.

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 को मारूं पटकि के, टूक टूक ह्वै जाय। विष की क्‍यारी बोयके, लुनता क्‍यौं पछिताय।।११२५।।

Even if I strike the mind and break it into pieces, it remains stubborn. Why regret sowing poison when it is the mind that brings suffering?

मन के मते न चालिये, मन के मते अनेक। जो मन पर असवार है, सो साधु कोय एक।।११२८।।

Do not follow the whims of the mind, which has many desires. The one who is disciplined over the mind is truly a sage.

मन के मते न चालिये, छांडि जीव की बानि। कतवारी के सूत ज्‍यौं, उलटि अपूठा आनि।।११३३।।

Do not follow the whims of the mind; leave behind the sayings of the living. Like a twisted thread, it is all meaningless.

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.

मनुवां तो पंछी भया, उड़‍िके चला अकास। ऊपर ही ते गिर पड़ा, मन माया के पास।।११४३।।

The mind became like a bird, flying up to the sky. But it fell down from above, and now it is caught in illusion.

मनुवा तो फूला फिरै, कहे जो करुं धरम।। कोटि करम सिर पर चढ़े, चेति न देखै मरम।।११४४।।

The mind wanders in delusion, saying it will follow righteousness. Countless deeds are piled on the head, but it does not recognize the essence.

मन दाता मन लालची, मन राजा मन रंक। जो यह मन गुरु सो मिलै, तो गुरु मिले निसंक।।११४५।।

The mind is both the giver and the greedy one, the king and the beggar. If this mind meets the true guru, it will find the guru without doubt.

मन ही को परमोधिये, मन ही को उपदेस। जो यह मन को बसि करै, सीष होय सब देस।।११५१।।

The mind is the supreme teacher and the mind itself is the guide. He who controls the mind becomes the master of all lands.

इन पांचौ से बंधिया, फिर फिर धरै शरीर। जो यह पांचौं बसि करै, सोई लागै तीर।।११५५।।

Bound by these five senses, the body repeatedly takes birth. He who controls these five senses, crosses over to safety.

मन के हारै हार है, मन के जीते जीत। कहैं कबीर गुरु पाइये, मन ही के प्रतीत।।११६०।।

Victory and defeat are determined by the mind; the mind’s defeat is defeat, and the mind’s victory is victory. Kabir says, one finds the guru through the mind’s perception.

छाडै बिन छूटै नहीं, छोड़न हारा राम। जीव जतन बहुतरि करै, सरे न एकौ काम।।११६७।।

Without leaving it behind, one cannot be free; the one who abandons is Ram. The soul may make many efforts, but none are effective.

माया छोड़न सब कहै, माया छोरि न जाय। छोरन की जो बात करु, बहुत तमाचा खाय।।११६८।।

Everyone speaks of abandoning illusion, but it does not leave. Those who speak of abandonment face many rebukes.

सुकृत लागै साधु की, बादि विमुख की जाय। कै तो तल गाड़ी रहै, कै कोय और खाय।।११७५।।

Virtue is attributed to a saint, but after that, some become indifferent. Some stay near, while others benefit differently.

करक पड़ा मैदान में, कुकुर मिले लख कोट। दावा कर लड़‍ि मुए, अन्‍त चले सब छोड़।।११८२।।

A person lay in the field, surrounded by thousands of dogs. They fought claiming victory, but in the end, they left everything behind.

माया छाया एक सी, बिरला जानै कोय। भगता के पीछे फिरै, सनमुख भाजै सोय।।११८७।।

Illusion is like a shadow, and only a few understand it. It follows the devotee and flees from those who face it directly.

माया दासी सन्‍त की, साकट की शिर ताज। सांकट की सिर मानिनी, सन्‍तों सहेली लाज।।११९२।।

Illusion is a maidservant to saints, but it crowns the miser. Illusion, in times of crisis, is honored as a friend, but among saints, it is a source of shame.

कबीर माया बेसवा, दोनूं की इक जात। आंवत को आदर करैं, जात न बूझ बात।।११९५।।

Kabir says, illusion is a courtesan, of the same class as both the high and the low. It shows respect to those who come, but does not understand the essence of one's nature.

अपना तो कोई नहीं, देखा ठोकि बजाय। अपना अपना क्‍या करै, मोह भरम लपटाय।।१२११।।

There is no true ownership; observe how things are struck and played. What can one do with 'own'? It is illusion and delusion that entangles us.

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 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.

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.

कोटि करम लागे रहै, एक क्रोध की लार। किया कराया सब गया, जब आया हंकार।।१२३७।।

Millions of good deeds can be undone by a single droplet of anger. Everything that was done is lost when pride arrives.

गार अंगार क्रोध झल, निन्‍दा धूवां होय। इत तीनों को परिहरै, साधु कहावै सोय।।१२३८।।

Anger is like burning embers, and slander is like smoke. One who abandons these three is called a saint.

क्रोध अगनि घर घर बढ़ी, जलै सकल संसार। दीन लीन निज भक्‍त जो, तिनके निकट उबार।।१२३९।।

Anger is a fire that grows in every house, burning the entire world. Those who are devoted and humble find refuge close to them.

जगत मांहि धोखा घना, अहं क्रोध अरु काल। पौरि पहुंचा मारिये, ऐसा जम का जाल।।१२४१।।

The world is full of deception, with pride, anger, and time. The net of death catches those who reach the end.

दसौं दिसा में क्रोध की, उठी अपरबल आग। सीत संगत साध की, तहां उबरिये भाग।।१२४२।।

In all directions, the fire of anger burns intensely. One can escape this only by associating with a saint.

दीप कू झोला पवन है, नर को झोला नारि। ज्ञानी झोला गर्व हैं, कहैं कबीर पुकारि।।१२४७।।

A lamp’s bag is the wind, a man's bag is a woman, and a wise person’s bag is pride. Kabir says, this is what is called pride.

अभिमानी कुंजर भये, निज सिर लीन्‍हा भार। जम द्वारे जम कूटहीं, लोहा घड़े लुहार।।१२४८।।

An arrogant elephant carries a heavy burden on its head. At the gate of death, the blacksmith breaks the iron pot.

अहं अगनि हिरदै जरै, गुरु सों चाहै मान। तिनका जम न्‍यौता दिया, हो हमरे मिहमान।।१२४९।।

The fire of ego burns in the heart. Those who desire respect from the guru are invited by death as guests.

मद अभिमान न कीजिये, कहैं कबीर समुझाय। जा सिर अहं जु संचरे, पड़े चौरासी जाय।।१२५०।।

Do not be proud or arrogant, says Kabir. If pride and arrogance reside in the mind, one remains in the cycle of 84 lakh births.

कबीर गर्व न कीजिये, रंक न हंसिये कोय। अजहूं नाव समुद्र में, ना जानौं क्‍या होय।।१२५१।।

Kabir says, do not be proud or laugh at the poor. Even now, the boat is in the ocean; we do not know what will happen.

जहां आपा तहां आपदा, जहां संसै तहां सोग। कहैं कबीर कैसे मिटै, चारौं दीरघ रोग।।१२५२।।

Where there is ego, there is disaster; where there is doubt, there is sorrow. Kabir asks, how can one overcome these four long-lasting ailments?

आपा सबही जात है, किया कराया सोय। आपा तजि हरि को भजै, लाखन मध्‍ये होय।।१२५३।।

Ego is the root of all differences; what one does is determined by ego. If one renounces ego and worships the Lord, they become a true devotee.

प्रभुता को सब कोई भजै, प्रभु को भजै न कोय। कहैं कबीर प्रभु को भजै, प्रभुता चेरी होय।।१२५४।।

Everyone worships power, but no one worships the Lord. Kabir says, to worship the Lord is to become a servant of divine power.

लघुता में प्रभुता बसै, प्रभुता से प्रभु दूर। कीड़ी सो मिसरी चुगै, हाथी के सिर धूर।।१२५५।।

Divinity resides in humility, while pride keeps one distant from the divine. The ant eats sugar, while the elephant’s head is covered with dust.

मान बड़ाई कूकरी, सन्‍तन खेदी जान। पांडव जग पावन भया, सुपच बिराजै आन।।१२५६।।

The pride of honor is false; wise people understand this. The Pandavas made the world sacred, while the wicked remain away.

बड़ा बड़ाई ना करै, बड़ा न बोलै बोल। हीरा मुख से कब कहै, लाख हमारा मोल।।१२५७।।

One should not boast of greatness; one should not speak grandly. How often does a diamond speak of its own value?

ऊंचे कुल के कारने, भूलि रहा संसार। तब कुल की क्‍या लाज है, जब तन होगा छार।।१२५८।।

Because of high lineage, one forgets the world. What is the pride of lineage when the body turns to dust?

बड़ी बिपति बड़ाई है, नन्‍हा करम से दूर। तारे सब न्‍यारे रहें, गहै चंद और सूर।।१२५९।।

Great calamity is indeed a form of greatness, far from small deeds. Stars all remain distinct while the moon and sun are central.

बड़ा हुआ तो क्‍या हुआ, जैसे पेड़ खजूर। पंथी को छाया नहीं, फल लागे अति दूर।।१२६०।।

What is the use of being great if one is like a date palm tree? It gives no shade to travelers and its fruits are very far.

कबीर अपने जीवते, ये दो बांता धोय। मान बड़ाई कारनै, अछता मूल न खोय।।१२६१।।

Kabir says while living, these two things should be avoided: pride and greatness, for they never diminish one's true essence.

मान बड़ाई कूकरी, धर्मराय दरबार। दीन लकुटिया बाहिरै, सब जग खाया फार।।१२६२।।

Pride and greatness are like a dog's collar in the court of righteousness. The poor and humble are left outside, while the whole world is consumed by this pride.

मान बड़ाई ऊरमी, ये जग का व्‍यवहार। दीन गरीबी बन्‍दगी, सतगुरु का उपकार।।१२६३।।

Pride and greatness are the norms of this world. True benefit comes from humility, poverty, and devotion, as guided by the True Guru.

मान बड़ाई देखि कर, भक्ति करै संसार। जब देखै कछु हीनता, अवगुन धरै गंवार।।१२६४।।

Seeing pride and greatness, the world engages in devotion. When they see any inferiority, they blame others as ignorant.

बड़ा बड़ाई ना करे, छोटा बहु इतराय। ज्‍यौं प्‍यादा फरजी भया, टेढ़ा टेढ़ा जाय।।१२६५।।

A great person should not boast, and a small person should not be overly proud. Just as a fake person becomes crooked and misguided.

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.

माया तजी तो क्‍या भया, मान तजा नहिं जाय। मान मड़े मुनिवर गले, मान सबन को खाय।।१२६७।।

What has been achieved by renouncing illusion if pride is not abandoned? Even the greatest sages are consumed by pride.

काला मुख कर मान का, आदर लावो आग। मान बड़ाई छांड़‍ि के, रहौ नाम लौ आग।।१२६८।।

The black face of pride brings respect and honor. Abandon pride and greatness, and live in the light of truth.

बग ध्‍यानी ज्ञानी घने, अरथी मिले अनेक। मान रहित कबीर कहैं, सो लाखन में एक।।१२६९।।

Many learned and wise people are found, and many hearse carriers are seen. But Kabir says that the one without pride is rare among thousands.

हाथी चढ़‍ि के जो फिरै, ऊपर चंवर दुराय। लोग कहैं सुख भोगवै, सीधे दोजख जाय।।१२७०।।

The one who rides an elephant and waves a fan above is thought to enjoy luxury, but in reality, he goes straight to hell.

ऊंचा देखि न राचिये, ऊंचा पेड़ खजूर। पंखि न बैठे छांयड़े, फल लागा पै दूर।।१२७१।।

Do not admire height; the date palm tree is tall. Birds do not sit in its shade, and its fruits are far away.

मान बड़ाई जगत में, कूकर की पह‍िचान। प्‍यार किये मुख चाटई, बैर किये तन हान।।१२७२।।

Pride and greatness in the world are like a dog's identity. It licks with love and harms with enmity.

बड़ी बड़ाई ऊंट की, लादे जहं लग सांस। मुहकम सलिता लादि के, ऊपर चढ़े परास।।१२७३।।

The pride of a camel is great, carrying burdens wherever it goes. With a heavy load of pride, it climbs over everything.

ऊंचा पानी ना टिकै, नीचे ही ठहराय। नीचा होय सो भरि पिये, ऊंचा पियासा जाय।।१२७४।।

High water does not stay; it settles at the bottom. The low level is filled up, while high remains thirsty.

बड़ा हुआ तो क्‍या हुआ, जोरे बड़ मति नांहि। जैसे फूल उजाड़ का, मिथ्‍या हो झड़ जांहि।।१२७५।।

What is the use of being great if there is no wisdom? Like a flower that withers, greatness without wisdom is false.

मान तजा तो क्‍या भया, मन का मता न जाय। संत बचन मानै नहीं, ताको हरि न सुहाय।।१२७६।।

What is gained by renouncing pride if the mind is not controlled? One who does not heed the words of the saints is not favored by the Divine.

मान दिया मन हरषिया, अपमाने तन छीन। कहैं कबीर तब जानिये, माया में लौ लीन।।१२७७।।

One may feel happy with pride, but shame will strip away the body. Kabir says, understand that such a person is lost in illusion.

लेने को हरिनाम है, देने को अंनदान। तरने को है दीनता, बूड़न को अभिमान।।१२७९।।

To receive is the name of God, to give is charity. To be saved requires humility, while pride leads to downfall.

ऊंचे कुल में जनमिया, देह धरी अस्‍थूल। पार ब्रह्म को ना चढ़े, वास विहूना फूल।।१२८०।।

Born in a high lineage, having a gross body, one does not reach the Supreme Being. The great and beautiful flowers do not bloom in such a place.

निन्‍दक दूर न कीजिये, कीजै आदर मान। निर्मल तन मन सब करै, बके आन ही आन।।१२८१।।

Do not drive away the critic; respect and honor them. Keep the body and mind pure, and continue to honor them.

निन्‍दक तो है नाक बिन, निसदिन विष्‍ठा खाय। गुन छाड़े अवगुन गहै, तिसका यही सुभाय।।१२८२।।

A critic is like a leech; it feeds on waste every day. Abandon virtues and hold onto vices, such is the nature of the critic.

अड़सठ तीरथ निन्‍दक न्‍हाई, देह पलोसे मैल न जाई। छप्‍पन कोटि धरती फिरि आवै, तो भी निन्‍दक नरकहिं जावे।।१२८३।।

Even if a critic bathes at sixty-eight pilgrimage sites, the dirt of the body will not be removed. Even if they roam over millions of lands, they will still go to hell.

सातों सागर मैं फिरा, जम्‍बू दीप दै पीठ। पर निन्‍दा नाहीं करे, सो कोई बिरला दीठ।।१२८४।।

I have roamed across all seven seas and visited Jambudweep. It is rare to find someone who does not engage in criticism.

कंचन को तजबो सहल, सहल त्रिया को नेह। निन्‍दा केरो त्‍यागबो, बड़ा कठिन है येह।।१२८६।।

Renouncing gold is easy, and love for a woman is easy. But giving up criticism is very difficult.

जो कोई निन्‍दै साधु को, संकट आवै सोय। नरक जाये जन्‍मै मरै, मुक्ति कबहुं नहिं होय।।१२८७।।

One who criticizes the saint will face hardships. Such a person will go to hell, and liberation will never be attained.

आपन को न सराहिये, और न कहिये रंक। क्‍या जानो केहि ब्रिष तलि, कूरा होइ करंक।।१२८८।।

Do not praise yourself or consider yourself lowly. How can you know what is hidden beneath the surface?

दोष पराया देखि के, चले हसन्‍त हसन्‍त। अपने चित्त न आवई, जिनको आदि न अन्‍त।।१२८९।।

People laugh and point out others' faults, but they cannot see their own faults. They are ignorant of both the beginning and the end.

निन्‍दक मेरा जनि मरो, जीवो आदि जुगादि। कबीर सतगुरु पाइये, निन्‍दक के परसादि।।१२९१।।

Do not consider the critic as dead; the soul lives on. Kabir says, the true guru is found through the grace of the critic.

कबीर निन्‍दक मरि गया, अब क्‍या कहिये जाय। ऐसा कोई नाम मिला, बीड़ा लेय उठाय।।१२९२।।

Kabir says, the critic is dead, what more can be said? Such a name is found that lifts the burden from one’s shoulders.

निन्‍दक एकहु मति मिलै, पापी मिलै हजार। इस निन्‍दक के शीश पर, लाख पाप का भार।।१२९३।।

A critic has one mind, but a thousand sinners are there. On the head of the critic, lies the burden of countless sins.

निन्‍दक से कुत्ता भला, हट कर माडै रार। कुत्ते से क्रोधी बुरा, गुरु दिलावै गार।।१२९४।।

A critic is better than a dog; remove the angry one. An angry person is worse than a dog and brings disgrace to the guru.

निन्‍दक तो है नाक बिन, सोहै नकटो माहिं। साधु जन गुरु भक्‍त जो, तिनमें सोहै नाहिं।।१२९५।।

A critic is like a leech without a nose; they are found in dirty places. They do not belong among saints, gurus, or devotees.

जौ तू सेवक गुरुन का, निन्‍दा की जब बान। निन्‍दक नेरे आय जब, कर आदर सनमान।।१२९७।।

If you are a servant of the guru and you are hit by the arrow of criticism, when the critic approaches, show respect and honor.

निन्‍दक नियरे राखिये, आंगन कुटी छवाय। बिन पानी साबुन बिना, निरमल करे सुभाय।।१२९९।।

Keep the critic near, as a small hut in the courtyard. Without water and soap, it remains clean in its own way.

कूकस कूटै कण बिना, बिन करनी का ज्ञान। ज्‍यौं बन्‍दूक गोली बिना, भड़क न मारै आन।।१३०२।।

A critic is like a drum without a stick; it makes noise but lacks knowledge. Similarly, a gun without bullets does not fire.

चतुराई चुल्‍है पड़े, ज्ञान कथै हुलसाय। भाव भक्ति जानै बिना, ज्ञानपनो चलि जाय।।१३१५।।

Cunning is like a burnt stove; knowledge seems to be lost. Without understanding true devotion and feeling, knowledge becomes meaningless.

करनी गर्व निवारनी, मुक्ति स्‍वारथी सोय। कथनी तजि करनी करै, तब मुक्‍ताहल होय।।१३१६।।

Actions remove pride, and those seeking liberation should act selflessly. By abandoning mere words and focusing on actions, one achieves liberation.

काला मुंह करुं करम का, आदर लावूं आग। लोभ बड़ाई छांड़‍ि के, रांचू गुरु के राग।।१३३३।।

Actions done with a dark intent bring respect, but only when the desire for praise is abandoned and one embraces the guru's guidance.

कबीर सजड़े की जड़ा, झूठा मोह अपार। अनेक लुहारे पचि मुये, उझड़त नहीं लगार।।१३३४।।

The root of deceit is false pride. Many metalworkers have perished, yet the falsehood remains unshaken.

तेरा बैरी कोइ नहीं, तेरा बैरी फैल। अपने फैल मिटाय ले, गली-गली कर सैल।।१३३७।।

There is no enemy except yourself. Eliminate your own faults, and move about freely in the world.

कबीर चंदन पर जला, तीतर बैठा मांहि। हम तो दाझत पंख बिन, तुम दाजत हो काहि।।१३४२।।

Kabir burns on sandalwood, while the peacock sits on it. How is it that we are scorched without wings, while you, with wings, are honored?

चहै अकास पताल जा, फोड़‍ि जाहु ब्रह्मण्‍ड। कहैं कबीर मिटिहै नहीं, देह धरे का दण्‍ड।।१३४३।।

Even if you break through the skies and the earth, and shatter the universe, Kabir says, he will not be destroyed, nor his body affected.

पाहन पूजि के, होन चहत भव पार। भीजि पानि भेदै नदी, बूड जिन सिर भार।।१३४९।।

Worshipping stones, one seeks to cross over the cycle of life. But those who drown in the water of a river cannot cross with a heavy load on their head.

अकिल बिहूना आदमी, जानै नहीं गंवार। जैसे कपि परबस पर्यो, नाचौ घर घर द्वार।।१३५०।।

A foolish and ignorant person does not understand. Just like a monkey, who, when controlled, dances around door to door.

अकिल बिहूना सिंह ज्‍यों, गयों ससा के संग। अपनी प्रतिमा देखिके, कियो तन को भंग।।१३५३।।

Even a foolish lion, when it associates with rabbits, loses its pride. Seeing its own reflection, it destroys its body.

आतम दृष्टि जानै नहीं, न्‍हावै प्रात:काल। लोकलाज लिया रहे, लागा भरम कपाल।।१३६०।।

He doesn't understand the vision of the self, but bathes early in the morning to maintain his social reputation, carrying the illusion on his forehead.

मनही में फूला फिरै, करता हूं मैं धर्म। कोटि कर्म सिर पर चढ़े, चेति न देखे मर्म।।१३७३।।

The mind swells with pride, thinking 'I am righteous.' But despite countless deeds, one fails to see the essence.

काजर केरी कोठरी, भसि के किये कपाट। पाहन भूलि पिरथवी, पंडित पाड़ी वाट।।१३८४।।

The room full of soot, with doors shut tight, forgets the earth while the learned ones pave their own paths.

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.

दीन गरीबी दीन को, दंदुर को अभिमान। दुंदुर तो विष से भरा, दीन गरीबी जान।।१३९७।।

Humility belongs to the humble, pride belongs to the arrogant. Arrogance is filled with poison, understand the value of humility.

दर्शन को तो साधु हैं, सुमिरन को गुरु नाम। तरने को आधीनता, डूबन को अभिमान।।१३९९।।

The saints are for spiritual vision, the guru's name is for remembrance. Humility is the means to cross the ocean of life, while pride leads to drowning.

कबीर सबते हम बुरे, हमते भल सब कोय। जिन ऐसा करि बूझिया, मीत हमारा सोय।।१४००।।

Kabir says, 'I am the worst of all, everyone else is better than me.' The one who understands this is my true friend.

कबीर नवै सो आपको, पर को नवै न कोय। घालि तराजू तोलिये, नवै सो भारी होय।।१४०१।।

Kabir says, 'The one who bows down considers himself humble, but doesn't bow to others.' If you weigh on a scale, the one who bows down is actually heavier.

नहिं दीन नहिं दीनता, संत नहिं मिहमान। ता घर जम डेरा किया, जीवत भया मसान।।१४०२।।

Where there is no humility or humble behavior, where there are no saints or guests, death has made its home there, and the house becomes a living graveyard.

नीचे नीचे सब तिरै, संत चरण लौ लीन। जातिहि के अभिमान ते, बूड़े सकल कुलीन।।१४०३।।

Those who remain humble and devoted to the feet of saints, sail through life. But those who are proud of their caste drown despite their high status.

बुरा जो देखन मैं चला, बुरा न मिलिया कोय। जो दिल खोज्‍या आपना, मुझसा बुरा न कोय।।१४०६।।

I went in search of the bad, but I found none. When I searched my own heart, I found no one worse than myself.

दीन गरीबी बंदगी, सबसो आदर भाव। कहैं कबीर सोई बड़ा, जामे बड़ा सुभाव।।१४०८।।

Humility, poverty, and service are the highest virtues. Kabir says that the one who embodies these traits is truly great.

आपा मेटै पिव मिलै, पिव में रहा समाय। अकथ कहानी प्रेम की, कहै तो को पतियाय।।१४०९।।

When the ego is removed, one finds the beloved, and remains immersed in the beloved. The story of love is ineffable; only the one who experiences it can understand.

कबीर अब तो ऐसा भया, निरमोलिक निज नाऊं। पहली कांच कबीर था, फिरता ठांवैं ठाऊं।।१४३१।।

Kabir has now become such, his own self is priceless. Previously, he was like glass, wandering from place to place.

कबीर सिरजनहार बिन, मेरा हितू न कोइ। गुण औगुण बिहड़ै नहीं, स्‍वारथ बंधी लोइ।।१४३७।।

Kabir says that without the Creator, there is no one who benefits me. Virtue and vice are not separate; all is bound by self-interest.

अपनी कहे मेरी सुने, सुनि मिल‍ि एके होय। हमरे देखत जग जात है, ऐसा मिला न कोय।।१४४०।।

When one says 'mine' and the other listens and merges, they become one. In my view, the world moves, but such unity is rare.

अमृत की मोटरी, सिर सों धरे उतारि। ताहि कहैं मैं एक सो, कहे मोहिं चारि।।१४४१।।

The elixir is worn on the head like a crown, yet they say that I am one, while calling me four.

आगि जो लागि समुद्र महं, जरे जौ कांदो झारि। पूर्व पछिम के पंडिता, मुए विचारि विचारि।।१४४७।।

When fire burns in the ocean, it consumes everything like a burning ember. Scholars of the east and west ponder and die contemplating it.

आपनि आपनि शरी की, सभनि लीनो मान। हरि की बात दुरन्‍तरे, परी न काहू जान।।१४५१।।

One's own body is taken as important by everyone, but no one understands the deep essence of Hari's words.

आपा तजे हरि भजे, नखसिख तजे विकार। सब जीवन से निबरहे, साधुमता है सार।।१४५२।।

One who renounces their ego and worships Hari, discards all impurities. Such a person lives a life free from all faults; this is the essence of saintliness.

ई मन चंचल ई मन चोर, ई मन शुद्ध ठगहार। मनमनम कहत सुर नर मुनि जहंड़े, मन के लक्ष दुआर।।१४५६।।

This mind is restless, this mind is a thief, and this mind is a pure swindler. Even saints, sages, and deities speak of the mind as the door to all goals.

कबीर का घर शिखर पर, जहां सिलहली गैल। पांव न टिके पिपिलि का, तहां खलकोन लादा बैल।।१४७०।।

Kabir's home is at the peak, where the path is slippery. Even an ant cannot stand firm there, how can the wicked load a bull?

कबीर भर्म न भाजिया, बहुविधि धरिया भेष। साई के परच बिना, अन्‍तर रहा न लेख।।१४७२।।

Kabir says, despite wearing many disguises, my illusions did not leave. Without the Lord's realization, the inner self remains divided.

कुरु बहियां बल आपनां, छांडु बिरानी आस। जाके आंगन नदिया बहै, सो कस मरत पियास।।१४७४।।

Use your own strength and abandon reliance on others. How can one die of thirst when a river flows through their courtyard?

कलि खोटा जग आंधरा, शब्‍द न माने कोय। जाहि कहौं हित आपना, सौ उठि बैरी होय।।१४७६।।

In this age of darkness, the world is corrupt, and no one listens to the words of wisdom. When I try to guide others, they become my enemies.

काजर की ही कोठरी, काजर ही का कोट। तोंदी कारी ना भई, रही सो ओट हि ओट।।१४७८।।

In a room full of soot, wearing a coat of soot, the heart remains unaffected, hidden beneath layers of pretense.

काला सर्प शरीर में , खाई सब जग झारि। बिरला ते जन बांचिहें, जो रामहिं भजे विचारि।।१४८१।।

A black serpent resides within the body, consuming everything in the world. Only a few rare souls will survive, who meditate on Lord Ram.

काह बड़े कुल ऊपजे, जो रे बड़‍ि बुद्धिहि नाहिं। जैसे फूल उजारि के, मिथ्‍या लगि झरि जाहिं।।१४८३।।

What is the use of being born into a great family if one lacks wisdom? Just like a flower that blooms beautifully but soon withers away.

गुरु की भेली जिब डरे, काया सिचनिहार। कुमति कमाई मन बसे, लागु जुबाकी लार।।१४९२।।

The disciple fears the sweetness of the Guru's teachings, which are meant to nourish the body. However, the mind is filled with wrong thoughts and the mouth waters for worldly pleasures.

चंदन सर्प लपेटिया, चंदन काह कराया। राम-राम विष भीनिया, अमृत कहां समाय।।१५०२।।

The sandalwood tree is entwined by a snake, rendering its fragrance useless. Even the name of Ram is tainted with poison, how can nectar remain?

चार चोर चले, पग पनही उतारि। चारों दर थूनी हनी, पंड‍ित करहु बिचारि।।१५०६।।

Four thieves set out, removing their shoes. They hit the four doors' pillars, oh scholars, think about it.

छव दर्शन में जो प्रमाणा, तासु नाम बनवारी। कहहिं कबीर ई खलक सयाना, इनमें हमहिं अनारी।।१५०९।।

He who sees proof in the six philosophies is known as Banwari. Kabir says, the world is wise, but I remain a simpleton among them.

जंत्र बजावत हो सुना, टूटि गए सब तार। जंत्र विचारा क्‍या करें, गए बजावन हार।।१५१०।।

The instrument is heard playing, but all its strings are broken. What can the poor instrument do, as the player has left.

जहं गाहक तहं हौं नहीं, हौं तहं गाहक नाहिं। बिनु विवेक भरमत फिरे, पकड़ो शब्‍द की छांहि।।१५१४।।

Where the customer is, I am not there, and where I am, the customer is not. Without wisdom, people wander aimlessly; grasp the shadow of the word.

जाके मुनिवर तप करे, वेद थके गुण गाय। सोई देव सिखापनो, कोई नहीं पतियाय।।१५२०।।

The sages have performed penances, and the Vedas have sung their praises. But even the teachings of the gods are doubted; no one believes.

जानि बूझि जड़ होय रहो, बल तजि निर्बल होय। कहहिं कबीर तेहि संत के, पला न पकरे कोय।।१५२३।।

Knowingly, one becomes inert, abandoning strength and becoming weak. Kabir says, no one takes care of such a saint.

जासों दिल नहि मिलिया, शब्‍द बेधा अंग। कहहिं कबीर पुकारि के, हंस बके का अंग।।१५२४।।

When hearts do not unite, words pierce like arrows. Kabir calls out, how can a swan and a crane be the same?

जाहि खोजत कल्‍पे बीते, घटहिं में सो मूल। बाढे गर्व गुमान ते, ताते परिगो दूर।।१५२५।।

What you search for over ages, is within your own heart. Due to pride and arrogance, it feels far away.

जो घर रहे सर्प का, ता घर साधु न होय। सकल संपदा ले गया, विषहर लागे सोय।।१५४०।।

A house where a serpent resides cannot be a place of the pious. All its wealth is taken away, and it is infested with poison.

जो जानहु जगजीवना, जो जानह तो जीव। पान पचायेहु आपना, पनिया मागि न पीव।।१५४२।।

One who understands the essence of life, understands the true self. He digests his own food and does not beg for others’ water.

झिलमिलि‍ झगरा झूलते, वाकी छुटी न काहु। गोरख अटके कालपर, कौन कहावे साहु।।१५५०।।

The twinkling quarrel swings, and nothing remains the same. Even Gorakh is trapped by time; who can say otherwise?

ढिग बूडे उछले नहीं, इहै अंदेसा मोहिं। सलिल मोह की धार में, का निंदिआई तोहिं।।१५५३।।

The wooden log does not float even when it is old; this is the feeling in me. In the current of the stream of illusion, how can you be indifferent?

तीनि लोक चोरी भया, सर्वस सब का लीन्‍ह। बिना मूड़ का चोरवा, परा न काहू चीन्‍ह।।१५५९।।

The three worlds are a theft, everything is absorbed. Without a thief's mask, no one is a thief.

तीरथ गए ते बहि मुए, जूड़े पाणि नहाय। कहहिं कबीर पुकारि के, राक्षस होय पछताय।।१५६१।।

Those who go to pilgrimage die outside, they do not bathe in the holy water. Kabir says, those who lament are demons.

दर्पण केरी गुफा महं, सोनहा पैठे धाय। देखे प्रतिमा आपनी, भंकि भूंकि मरि जाय।।१५६४।।

In the cave of the mirror, gold is reflected. One sees their own image, but dies while watching.

दहरा तो नूतन भया, तदपि न चीन्‍हे कोय। जिहि यह शब्‍द विवेकिया, छत्र धनी है सोय।।१५६६।।

The place remains new, yet no one recognizes it. One who understands this word of wisdom is the true master.

नष्‍टा का राज है, नफरत का वरते तेज। सार शब्‍द टकसार है, हृदये मांहि विवेक।।१५७६।।

The rule of loss is in place, and the force of hatred prevails. The essence of the word is in discerning the wisdom in the heart.

नहिं हीरा की बोरियां, नहिं हंसन की पांति। सिंघहु के लहड़ा नहीं, साधु न चले जमाति।।१५७७।।

There are no bags of diamonds, nor a procession of swans. The lion’s roar cannot be compared, nor can a saint be bound by rituals.

पांवहिं पहुमी नापते, दरिया करते फाल। हाथन्हि पर्वत तोलते, तेहि धरि खायो काल।।१५८८।।

Measuring the earth with feet, and making waves in the river. Balancing mountains with hands, and yet death consumes it all.

प्रगट कहौं तो मारिया, परदा लखे न कोय। सहना छुपा पुवार तर, को कह बैरी होय।।१५९९।।

If revealed, it is killed; no one sees the veil. Endurance hides it, who can say who is the enemy?

प्रेम पाट का चोलना, पहरि कबीरा नाच। पानप दीन्‍हों ताहि को, जो तन मन बोले सांच।।१६०२।।

Wearing the garment of love, Kabir dances. He drinks the nectar of truth, which speaks through body and mind.

बड़ा तो गए बड़पने, रोम रोम हंकार। सद्गुरु के परचे बिना, चारों वर्ण चमार।।१६०८।।

One may boast of greatness, but without the recognition of the true Guru, they remain a lowly person among the four varnas.

वाजन दे बाजन्‍तरी, कलि कुकुरी मति छेर। तुझे बिरानी क्‍या परी, अपनी आप निबेर।।१६१२।।

The weight is given to the instrument, but the mind remains fickle. Why worry about others? Rely on yourself.

विष के बिखहिं घर किये, रहा सर्प लपटाय। तातें जियरहिं डर भया, जागत रैन विहाय।।१६१५।।

In the house filled with poison, the serpent remains coiled. Hence, the soul remains fearful, wandering the nights.

बेढा दीह्नहो खेता का, बेढा खेतहि खाय। तीनि लोक संशय परी, काहि कहा बिलगाय।।१६१७।।

The boat is in the field, but the boat eats the field. The three worlds are filled with doubt; why then does it say that it is separate?

मन गयन्‍द माने नहीं, चले सरति के साथ। महावत बिचारा क्‍या करे, जो अंकुश नहिं हाथ।।१६३१।।

The mind does not heed to discipline, it flows along with the current. What can the poor mahavat do, if there is no rein in hand?

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.

मानुष केही अथाइया, मति कोइ पठे धाय। एकहि खेत चरत है, बाघ गदहरा गाय।।१६३७।।

The human is deceitful, the intellect sends him astray. He roams in the same field, like a tiger among cows.

माया के बस परे, ब्रह्मा विष्‍णु महेश। नारद सारद सनक सनन्‍दन, गौरी और गनेश।।१६३९।।

Beyond the control of illusion are Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. Narad, Saraswati, Sanak, Sanandan, Gauri, and Ganesh.

मूरख सों का कहिए, सठ सों कहा बसाय। पाहन में का मारिये, चोखे तीर नसाय।।१६४५।।

What can be said to a fool, and what can be done to a scoundrel? Hitting a stone does not remove the arrow's mark.

मूवा हे मरिं जाहुगे, बिनु सर थोथे भाल। परहु करायल वृक्ष तल, आज मरहु के काल।।१६४६।।

The dead will die, without the head's support. Under the tree of misfortune, today is the time of death.

मानुष ह्वे के नहिं मुवा, मुवा सो डांगर ढोर। एकां जीवहिं ठौर नहिं लागा, भये सो हाथी घोर।।१६५१।।

The human does not die like an animal; the dead one is like cattle. Without a place to live, it becomes a fierce elephant.

बाजीगर के वानरा, जियरा मन के साथ। मन सायर समुद्र है, वहि कतहूं जानि जाय।।१६५५।।

The monkeys of the magician, along with the heart and mind. The mind is like the ocean; where it goes, no one knows.

मलयागिरि के वास में, वृक्ष रहे सबभोय। कहिबे को चंदन भए, मलयागिरि नहिं होय।।१६५६।।

In the abode of Malaya Mountain, all trees thrive. To say that the sandalwood is the Malaya Mountain, is not correct.

हौं तो सब ही की कही, मेरी कहे न कोय। मेरी कहे सो जना, जो मुझ ही सा होय।।१६५८।।

I speak for everyone, but no one speaks for me. Only those who are like me, can understand what I say.

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.

संगति के सुख ऊपजे, कुसंगति के दुख होय। संसय खंडे जो जना, जो शब्‍द विवेकी होय।।१६८२।।

Happiness arises from good association, and misery from bad association. One who can discern this is wise and free from doubts.

सब ही तो लघुता भली, लघुता ते सब होय। ज्‍यों द्वितीय के चन्‍द्रमा, नवावै सब कोय।।१६९१।।

All find greatness in humility; through humility, everything is achieved. Just as the second moon does not rise, all must achieve greatness.

समुझाये समुझे नहीं, पर हाथ आप बिकाय। मैं खींचत हौं आपु को, चला सो जमपुर जाय।।१६९२।।

One tries to explain but is not understood, while oneself is sold in the process. I pull myself along, yet it leads to the city of death.

सांचा शब्‍द कबीर का, हृदया देखि विचारी। चित दे समुझे नहिं मोहि, कहत भए जुग चारि।।१६९३।।

The true word of Kabir, considered by the heart, has been said for ages. The mind does not understand it, though it has been spoken for four ages.

साहू से भी चोरबा, चोरहु से भौ होत। तब जानिहुगे जीयरा, जबहिं परेगा तुज्‍झ।।१६९९।।

Even worse than the merchant is the thief, who creates fear from the thief. You will understand your own self when you face it directly.

साहेब साहेब सब कहें, मोहि अंदेशा ओर। साहेब से परचा नहीं, बैठहुगे कहि ठौर।।१७००।।

Everyone calls the master 'master,' but I have doubts. There is no recognition from the master; one must find their own place.

सिंह अकेला बन रमे, पलक पलक करे ठौर। जैसे बन है आपना, तैसा बन है और।।१७०१।।

The lion enjoys solitude, finding a place at every step. Just as the forest is yours, so is the forest of others.

सेमर का सुगना, छिहुले बैठा जाय। चोंच संवारे सिर धुन, ई उसी ही को भाय।।१७०४।।

The peacock of the Seemar tree sits on the branch. It decorates its beak and head, delighting in its own beauty.

हाड़ जरत जैसे लाकरी, केस जरे जैसे घास। कबीरा जरे रामरस, कोठी जरे कपास।।१७१४।।

Just as wood burns and hair burns like grass, Kabir says, the essence of Ram burns, and the mansion burns like cotton.

हिलगी भाल शरीर महं, तीर रहा है टूट। चुम्‍बक बिनु निकसै नहीं, कोटि पाहन गौ छूट।।१७१६।।

The body may be trembling, and the arrow may be breaking. Without the magnet, stones cannot be released, even a crore stones are bound.

हृदय भीतर आरसी, मुख देखा नहिं जाय। मुख तो तब ही देखिए, जब दिल की दुविधा जाय।।१७१९।।

The mirror is within the heart, the face cannot be seen. The face is seen only when the heart's dilemma is resolved.

झिरमिरि झिरमिरि बरषिया, पांहण ऊपरि मेह। माटी गलि सैजल भई, पांहण वाही तेह।।१७२१।।

The rain falls softly on the stone. The soil melts into moisture, the stone remains the same.

सीतलता के कारणै, नाग बिलंबे आइ। रोम रोम विष भरि रह्मा, अमृत कहा समाइ।।१७२७।।

Due to coolness, the snake delays coming. The body is filled with poison, where is the nectar?

सरपहि दूध पिलाइये, दूधै विष ह्व जाइ। ऐसा कोई ना मिले, स्‍यूं सरपै विष खाइ।।१७२८।।

Give milk to the snake, it turns into poison. Such is the nature of the snake, it consumes poison.

जालौं इहै बड़पणां, सरलै पेड़‍ि खजूरि। पंखी छांह न बीसवै, फल लागे ते दूरि।।१७२९।।

This is the arrogance of the date palm tree. The bird does not sit in its shade, the fruit is far away.

ऊंचा कुल के कारणै, बंस बध्‍या अधिकार। चंदन बास भेदै नहीं, जाल्‍या सब परिवार।।१७३०।।

Due to high lineage, the family holds power. The sandalwood's fragrance does not fade, even if the whole family is burnt.

कबीर चंदन कै निड़ै, नींव भि चंदन होइ। बूड़ा बंस बड़ाइतां, यौं जिनि बूडे कोइ।।१७३१।।

Kabir says, sandalwood's nature is such that even its foundation is sandalwood. The old lineage is elevated, but who recognizes the old?

कबीर औंधी खोपड़ी, कबहूं धापै नांहि। तीन लोक की सम्‍पदा, कब आवै घर मांहि।।१७३३।।

Kabir says, the upside-down skull never gets covered. The wealth of the three worlds, when will it come to one's home?

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?

कर कमाण सर सांधि करि, खैचि जु मारया मांहि। भीतरि भिद्या सुमार ह्व, जीवै कि जीवै नांहि।।१७५०।।

When the mind is drawn to the divine, it pulls away from worldly attachments. The inner wisdom illuminates, questioning whether the self truly exists.

डारी खांड पटकि करि, अंतरि रोस उपाइ। रोवत रोवत मिलि गया, पिता पियारे जाइ।।१७६७।।

In anger, one breaks the sugar and cloth; in the heart, anger finds its way. By weeping and weeping, one meets the beloved father.

कै बिरहिन कूं मींच दे, कै आपा दिखलाइ। आठ पहर का दाझणां, मोपै सहया न जाइ।।१७७०।।

To the beloved in separation, one shows their own ego. The burning of eight hours is unbearable for me.

वेड़ा पाया सरप का, भौसागर के मांह। जै छाडों तो डूबिहौं, गहौं त डसिये बांह।।१७७८।।

I have gained a snake's venom in the ocean of the world. If I leave it, I will drown; if I hold on, it will bite me.

भली भई जु भै पड्या, गई दशा सब भूलि। पाला गलि पांणी भया, ढलि मिलिया उस कूलि।।१७९७।।

The good fortune that once seemed to be the case is now forgotten. The vessel has turned into water, and it has merged with its own shore.

अंक भरे भरि भेटिया, मन मैं मांही धीर। कहै कबीर ते क्‍यूं मिलैं, जब लग दोइ सरीर।।१८०४।।

The filled vessel overflows, the mind is steadfast in its devotion. Kabir questions why one should meet, while both bodies are separate.

जब मैं था तब हरि नहीं, अब हरि हैं मैं नांहि। सब अंधियारा मिटि गया, जब दीपक देख्‍या मांहि।।१८१४।।

When I was there, Hari (God) was not; now that Hari is there, I am not. All darkness has vanished when I saw the light within.

जा कारणि मैं जाइ था, सोई पाई ठोर। सोई फिरि आपण भया, जासूं कहता और।।१८१६।।

The reason I went was to find a resting place. That same place turned out to be myself, though I was speaking of others.

मेरा मुझ में कुछ नहीं, जो कुछ है सो तेरा। तेरा तुझकौं सौंपता, क्‍या लागै है मेरा।।१८३०।।

There is nothing of mine in me; whatever is there is yours. I surrender to you all that is yours, what do I have of my own?

कबीर सुख कौं जाइ था, आग आया दुख। जाहु सुख घरि आपणैं, हम जाणौं अरु दुख।।१८३३।।

Kabir, where is happiness? Fire has come as sorrow. If happiness is at home, then we know it, and so is sorrow.

जे मन लागै एक सूं, तौ निरबाल्‍या जाइ। तूरा दुइ मुखि बाजणां, न्‍याइ तमाचे खाइ।।१८३९।।

If the mind is focused on the One, it becomes unshakable. Like a drum with two faces, it deserves a slap.

कबीर कलि जुग आइ करि, कीये बहुतज मांत। जिन दिल बंधी एक सूं, ते सुख सोवै नवींत।।१८४०।।

In the age of Kali, many have become vain. Those whose hearts are bound to the One, find fresh joy.

उस संम्रथ का दास हौं, कदे न होइ अकाज। प्रतिब्रता नंगी रहै, तौ उसकी पारिस कौ लाज।।१८४४।।

I am a servant of the almighty, never is there any undone work. The servant remains naked, thus he is the pride of his master.

कबीर मधि अंग जेको रहै, तौ तिरत न लागै बार। दुइ दुइ अंग सूं लागि करि, डूबत है संसार।।१८४६।।

If someone remains focused on the inner self, pilgrimage has no significance. Engaging in dualities leads to drowning in the world.

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.

बासुरि गमि न रैंणि गमि, नां सुपनैं तरगंम। कबीर तहां बिलंबिया, जाहं छाहड़ो न घंम।।१८४८।।

The flute does not travel, nor does it wander; it remains at rest. Kabir says, there is no delay where there is no shadow or ego.

हिंदू मूये राम कहि, मुसलमान खुदाइ। कहै कबीर सो जीवता, दुई मैं कदे न जाइ।।१८५१।।

The Hindu calls God Ram, the Muslim calls Him Khuda. Kabir says that He is ever-living; He does not belong to either of the two.

दुखिया मूवा दुख कों, सुखिया सुख को झूरि। सदा अनंदी राम के, जिनि सुख दुख मेल्‍हे दूरि।।१८५२।।

The unhappy one dies in sorrow, the happy one lives in pleasure. The truly blissful one is with Ram, who transcends the dualities of joy and sorrow.

धरती अरु असमान बिचि, दोइ तूंबड़ा अवध। षट दरसन संसै पड्या, अरु चौसारी सिध।।१८५५।।

Between the earth and the sky, there are two vessels of the sacred city. Six views are in doubt, and forty-two are the paths to realization.

करता करै बहुत गुंण, औगुंण कोई नांहि। जे दिल खोजौं आपणीं, तौ सब औगुण मुझ मांहि।।१८५८।।

The Creator possesses countless virtues, and no flaws exist. If I search my heart, I find all flaws within me.

कबीर सोचि विचरिया, दूजा कोई नांहि। आपा पर जब चीन्हिया, तब उलटि समाना मांहि।।१८६५।।

Kabir reflects and finds there is no one else. When he realizes the self, he merges back into the source.

सोई आशिष सोई बैयन, जन जू जू बांचवंत। कोई एक मेलै लवणि, अमी रसाइण हुंत।।१८६९।।

Blessings and curses are the same, those who understand realize their essence. When combined with wisdom, even poison turns into nectar.

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.

मांगण मरण समान है, बिरला बंचै कोइ। कहै कबीर रघुनाथ सूं, मतिर मंगावै मोहि।।१८८२।।

Asking is akin to death; few survive this. Kabir asks the Lord to never let him beg.

मेर मिटी मुकता भया, पाया ब्रह्म बिसास। अब मेरे दूजा को नहीं, एक तुम्‍हारी आस।।१८८४।।

Ego has vanished, and liberation is attained; faith in the Brahman is realized. Now, I have no other desire, only hope in You.

मन फाटा वाइक बुरै, मिटी सगाई साक। जौ परि दूध तिवास का, ऊकटि हूवा आक।।१८८८।।

An evil-torn mind destroys all relationships and connections. Just as a drop of poison spoils an entire pot of milk.

नीर पिलावत क्‍या फिरै, सायर घर घर वारि। जो त्रिषावंत होइगा, तो पिवेगा झख मारि।।१८९३।।

Why do you go around offering water from house to house? The one who is truly thirsty will find and drink it on their own.

नां कुछ किया न करि सक्‍या, ना करणे जोग सरीर। जे कछु किया सु हरि किया, भया कबीर कबीर।।१८९६।।

I have done nothing, nor was I capable of doing anything; my body was not fit for it. Whatever has been done, it was done by God; thus, I became Kabir, Kabir.

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.

अब तौ झूझयां ही वणौं, मूढ़‍ि चाल्‍यां घर दूरि। सिर साहिब कौं सौंपता, सोच न कीजै सूरि।।१९१६।।

Now I have fought enough, my foolish actions have taken me far from home. I have surrendered my head to the Lord, do not worry, O hero.

हौं तोहि पूछौं हे सखी, जीवत क्‍यूं न मराइ। मूंवा पीछे सत करै, जीवत क्‍यूं न कराइ।।१९२९।।

I ask you, my friend, why does one not die while living? The dead can be rectified after death, but why is it not rectified while living?

कबीर हरि सबकूं भजै, हरि कूं भजै न कोइ। जब लग आस सरीर की, तब लग दास न होइ।।१९३१।।

Kabir says, everyone worships the Lord, but no one worships the Lord truly. As long as there is attachment to the body, one cannot be a true servant.

आप सवारथ मेदनीं, भगत सवारथ दास। कबीर राम सवारथी, जिनि छाड़ी तन की आस।।१९३२।।

One who is self-serving is the master of the world; the devotee is the servant of the Lord. Kabir says, the one who has abandoned all desires for the body is the true servant of Ram.

जिहि सर घड़ा न डूबता, अब मैंगल मलि मलि न्‍हाइ। देवल बूड़ा कलम सूं, पंषि तिसाई जाइ।।१९५५।।

The pitcher that does not sink in the pond, even if it repeatedly bathes in impurities, will eventually be destroyed by the pen of the divine writer, and the bird will depart.

यह मन पटकि पछाड‍ि लै, सब आपा मिटि जाइ। पगलु ह्वै पिव पिव करै, पीछौं काल न खाइ।।१९६०।।

When the mind is cast off and thrown away, all ego vanishes. The mad person who drinks and drinks, is not eaten by time.

ऐसा कोई न मिले, हम कौं लेइ पिछानि। अपना करि किरपा करे, ले उतारे मैदानि।।१९६५।।

No one is found to lift us up and rescue us. Only by showing mercy to ourselves, we can be saved from the field of strife.

ऐसा कोई ना मिले, जासौं रहिये लागि। सब जग जलता देखिये, अपणीं अपणीं आगि।।१९६८।।

No one is found who remains constant. Seeing the whole world burning, one must attend to their own fire.

तीनि सनेही बहु मिले, चौथे मिले न कोइ। सब पियारे राम के, बैठे परबसि‍ होइ।।१९७१।।

Many lovers are found in the three realms, but no one is found in the fourth. All beloveds are of Ram, who are under His control.

स्‍वारथ को सबको सगा, सब सगलाही जांणि। बिन स्‍वारथ आदर करै, सो हरि की प्रीति पिछांणि।।२००२।।

Self-interest is dear to everyone, and everyone knows this. The one who respects without self-interest is known to have true love for Hari.

कबीर खालिक जागिया, और न जागै कोइ। कै जागे बिनसई विष भरया, कै दास बंदगी होइ।।२००६।।

Kabir has awakened to the Creator, and no one else has. Whoever awakens with poison filled within, becomes a servant of devotion.

कबीर चंदन का बिड़ा, बैठ्या आक पलास। आप सरीखे करि लिए, जे होते उन पास।।२०१४।।

Kabir likens himself to a piece of sandalwood sitting among the arjun and palash trees. Those who are like him would recognize this resemblance.

जप तप दीसैं थोथरा, तीरथ ब्रत बेसास। सूवै सैबल सेबिया, यौं जग चल्‍या निरास।।२०२८।।

The rituals of chanting and penance appear hollow, and pilgrimages and fasts are meaningless. Those who sleep in comforts, see the world go by in vain.

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.

ग्‍यांनी मूल गंवाइया, आपण भये करंता। ताथै संसारी भला, मन मैं रहै डरंता।।२०६१।।

The wise lose their root, becoming proud of their knowledge. Better is the worldly man who lives in fear within his mind.

जीव बिलंब्‍या जीव सौं, अलख न लखिया जाइ। गोबिंद मिलै न झल बुझैं, रही बुझाइ बुझाइ।।२०६२।।

The soul, delayed by life, fails to perceive the invisible. Govind cannot be found by shallow intellect, it's a pursuit of enlightenment.

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.

चारिउ बेद पढ़ाइ करि, हरि सूं न लाया हेत। बालि कबीरा ले गया, पंडित ढूंढै खत।।२०६९।।

Even after reading all four Vedas, they did not develop love for Hari. Kabir took the real wealth, while the scholar is left searching for the script.

ब्रांह्मण गुरु जगत का, साधू का गुरू नाहिं। उरझि पुरझि करि मरि रह्या, चारिउं बेदां माहिं।।२०७०।।

The Brahmin is the world's teacher, but not the guru of a saint. He dies entangled in the complexities of the four Vedas.

पाड़ोसी सू रूसणां, तिल तिल सुख को हांणि। पंडित भए सरावगी, पांणी पीवें छांणि।।२०७२।।

Quarreling with neighbors, bit by bit, happiness is lost. Scholars have become hypocrites, drinking only filtered water.

पंडित सेती कहि रह्या, भीतरि भेद्या नाहिं। फिर‍ि प्रमोधै आन कौं, आपण समझै नाहिं।।२०७३।।

The scholar speaks outwardly but has not pierced within. He misleads others but does not understand himself.

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.

तारा मंडल बैसि करि, चंद बड़ाई खाइ। उदै भया जब सूर का, स्‍यूं तारां छिपि जाइ।।२०७५।।

The stars gathered, boasting of the moon's greatness. But when the sun rose, all the stars disappeared.

कबिरा सोई शूरमां, जाके पांचूं हाथ। जाके पांचूं वश नहीं, तो हरि संग न साथ।।२०८१।।

Kabir says, true warriors are those who have control over all five senses. Those who don't have control are not close to God.

गगन दमामा बाजिया, हनहनिया के कान। शूरां घिरां बधावना, कायर तजिहैं प्रान।।२०८२।।

The war drums sound in the sky, alarming the ears. Brave ones rejoice in the call to battle, while cowards flee and lose their lives.

दूर भया तो क्‍या भया, शिर दै नियरा होय। जग लग शिर सौंपे नहीं, कारज सिद्ध न कोय।।२०८५।।

What if it seems far? When you bow your head, it is close. Without surrendering the head, no task is accomplished in this world.

शिर राखे शिर जात है, शिर काटै शिर होय। उसे बाती दीप की, कटि उजियारा जोय।।२०९८।।

He who keeps his head safe maintains his dignity, while one who loses his head loses his honor. Like a lamp's wick, he who cuts it makes the light shine bright.

भागा भला न होयगी, मुंह मोस घर दूर। सांई आगै शीसदै, सोच न कीजै शूर।।२१०५।।

Fortune will not improve; the mouth may be distant from home. Before the Lord, bow down your head; do not think of being brave.

शर सनाह न पहरई, जब रन बाजा तूर। माथा काटै धर लडै, तब जानीजै शूर।।२१०८।।

The brave do not wear armor; when the battle drums sound. He who fights with his head held high, only then is he truly brave.

खांडा तिसको बाहिये, जो फिरि खांडे की देय। कायर को क्‍या बाहिये, दांतों तिनका लेय।।२११०।।

A sword is meant for one who wields it in battle. What use is a sword to a coward, who merely gnashes his teeth.

तीर तुपक बरछी बहैं, बिगसि जायगा चाम। शूरा के मैदान में, कायर का क्‍या काम।।२१११।।

Arrows, guns, and spears may be used, but they will only bring death. In the battlefield of the brave, what use is a coward.

शूरा के मैदान में, कायर का क्‍या काम। शूरा से शूरा मिलै, तब पूरा संग्राम।।२११२।।

In the battlefield of the brave, what use is a coward? Only when brave meet brave does the true battle occur.

शूरा के मैदान में, कायर का क्‍या काम। कायर भाजै पीठि दै, शूरा करै संग्राम।।२११३।।

In the battlefield of the brave, what use is a coward? The coward turns his back and flees, while the brave engage in battle.

शूरा के मैदान में, कायर बेधा आय। ना भाजै ना लडि सकै, मनहीं मन पछिताय।।२११४।।

A coward in the battlefield only brings disgrace. He neither fights nor flees, and his mind is filled with regret.

शूरा लरै कमन्‍द ह्वै, धरसों शीहा उतारि। कहै कबीरा मारा मुआ, कहै जो मारहिं मारि।।२११६।।

The brave fight with courage, discarding all fear. Kabir says, whether one is killed or kills, it's the same for those who fight.

पंच असमाना जब लिया, तब रन धसिया शूर। दिल सौंपा शिर उॅबरा, मुजरा राम हजूर।।२११९।।

When the five elements are mastered, the battlefield becomes a place for the brave. One offers their heart and head, and the divine Ram is pleased.

जब लग धर पर सीस है, शूर कहावै कोय। माथा टूटै धर लरै, कमद कहावै सोय।।२१२१।।

As long as the head is on the ground, one is called a hero. When the head is broken while fighting, only then is one called a true warrior.

शूरन सेंरी ताकई, नेजा घालै घाव। सब दल पाछा मोड़ि‍ के, माड़ी सेतो चाव।।२१२२।।

The brave observe the battlefield and bear the wounds. They turn the entire army around, showing courage and resolve.

शूरा तौं सांच मतै, सहै जो सन्‍तुख धार। कायर अनी चुभाय के, पीछै झखै अपार।।२१२३।।

The brave accept the truth, bearing the burden of joy. Cowards who cause pain, are endlessly tormented from behind.

भाजि कहांलौं जाइये, भय भारी घर दूर। बहुरि कबीरा खेतरह, दल आया भरपूर।।२१२४।।

Wherever one flees, fear remains and the home is far away. Kabir says, return to the battlefield, the army has come fully prepared.

इक मरिवो इक मारिवो, येही विषमा सिद्धि‍। ता वे कायर मरैंगे, जो चाले तरकस बिद्धि।।२१२५।।

One who dies is praised, and one who kills is also praised; this is the way of the world. Those who are cowards will die, while those who are skilled with weapons will live.

बसही साथ कलतरो, धीर न बंधै कोय। भागा पीछे बाहुरे, ठाठ गुसांई सोय।।२१२८।।

When living together, the constant quarrels are not bound by patience. The coward flees and returns, while the lord enjoys the pomp.

लडने को सबही चला, शस्‍त्रह बांधि‍ अनेक। साहब आगै आपना, जूझैगा कोई एक।।२१३०।।

Everyone goes to fight, with many weapons bound. In front of the lord, only one will truly struggle.

जूझैंगे तब कहैंगे, अब क्‍या कहैं बनाय। भीर परै मन मसकरा, लडे किधौं भगिजाय।।२१३१।।

When they fight, they will say, 'What can we say now?' Fear makes the heart smile, and the fight ends in fleeing.

कबिरा तोरा मान गढ, लूटी पांचों खान। ज्ञान कुहाड़ी कर्म बन, काटि किया मैदान।।२१४०।।

Kabir's honor is like a fortress, plundered by five enemies. Knowledge is the axe and action is the field, cutting away the obstacles.

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.

घटी बढी जानै नहीं, मनमें राखे जीत। गाडर लडै गयन्‍दसा, देखो उलटी रीत।।२१४६।।

One who does not know the ups and downs, keeps victory in the mind. The hypocrite fights with pride, and observes a reversed way.

कूकरा बहु जुरिमुआ, सलसै चढी सियार। रोवत आवै गदहड़ा, प्रमोधत आय बिलार।।२१४७।।

The dog is very guilty, the jackal climbs on it. The donkey cries, while the cat comes in joy.

चंदन रोया रात भरि, मेरा हित्त न कोय। जिसने राख्‍यो पेट में, सो फिर बैरी होय।।२१५२।।

Chandan cried all night, but no one cared. The one who kept it in their stomach, then became an enemy.

हंस बुगांके पावना, कोइक दिन का फेर। बगुला कहा गरबिया, बैठा पंख बिखेर।।२१५६।।

The swan waits at the pond, a turn of a day. The crane, proud and boastful, sits with its feathers spread.

बगुला हंस मनाइलै, नीरां रूकां बहोर। या बैठा तू ऊजला, तासों प्रीति न तोर।।२१५७।।

The crane lures the swan, and the pure water remains stagnant. You sit bright, yet the love is not yours.

मान उनमान तोलिये, शब्‍द का मोल न तोल। मूरख लोग न जानहीं, आपा खोयो बोल।।२१६४।।

Weigh honor and dishonor, but do not weigh the value of words. Foolish people do not understand, and lose themselves in words.

जहं गाहक तह मैं नहीं, हौं तहां गांहक नाहिं। परिचय बिन फूला फिरै, पकरि शब्‍द की बांहि।।२१६८।।

Where there are no buyers, I am not there; where I am, there are no buyers. Without recognition, they wander around, clinging to the words.

अपने अपने सिर पर, सबहिन लीन्‍हा मानि। हरि की बात दुर्लभ अहै, काह परी न जानि।।२१७७।।

Everyone considers their own head as the most valuable. The teachings of Hari are rare, yet no one understands their significance.

क्‍या मुख ले बिनती करूं, लाज आवत है मोहि। तुम देखत अवगुन किया, कैसे भाऊं तोहि।।२१८२।।

How can I make a plea with my face? I am filled with shame. You see my faults, how should I approach you?

बनजारी बिनती करै, नरियल लायी हाथ। बाडा था सो लदि गया, नायक नाहीं साथ।।२१८३।।

The trader makes a plea, bringing a coconut in hand. The feast was there but was spoiled, and there was no hero to accompany.

कबिरा भूलि बिगारिया, तू ना कर मैला चित्त। साहब गरुवा चाहिये, नफर बिगारो नित्त।।२१८७।।

Kabir has made a mistake and ruined himself; do not make your heart dirty. O Lord, what is needed is humility, not continuous defilement.

कबिरा भलि बिगारिया, करि करि मैला चित्त। नफर भि एसा चाहिये, साहब से राखै हित्त।२१८८।।

Kabir has ruined himself, making his heart dirty repeatedly. Even punishment should be such that it preserves the Lord's goodwill.

सांई केरा बहत गुन, औगन कोई नाहिं। जो दिल खोजों आपना, तो सब औगन मुझ माहिं।।२१९१।।

The Lord has many virtues and no faults. But when I search my own heart, I find only faults within myself.

अंतरजामी एक तूं, आतम के आधार। जो तुम छांड़ो हाथ तो, कौन उतारै पार।।२२०१।।

You are the knower of all hearts, the support of the soul. If you let go of my hand, who will help me cross the ocean of existence?

राम कबीरा एक है, दूजा कबहु न कोय। अंतर टाटी कपट की, ताते दीखे दोय।।२२१०।।

Ram and Kabir are one; there is no other. Due to the veil of deceit and hypocrisy, two appear.

ब्राह्मन राजा बरन का, और पवनी छत्तीस। रोटी ऊपर माछली, सब बरन भये खबीस।।२२४३।।

Brahmins, kings, and people of all varnas and professions eat fish with their bread. All varnas have become corrupt.

मुल्‍ला तझै करीम का, कब आया फरमान। घट फोरा घर घर किया, साहब का नीसान।।२२५६।।

Mulla, when did you receive the command from Karim (God)? You go from house to house breaking vessels, claiming it as a sign from God.

काजी का बेटा मुआ, उरमैं सालै पीर। वह साहब सबका पिता, भला न मानै बीर।।२२५७।।

The Qazi's son died, and the Pir (saint) is deeply troubled. God is the father of all, yet the warrior does not accept this.

पीर सबन को एकसी, मूरख जानैं नाहिं। अपना गला कटायक, भिश्‍त बसै क्‍यों नाहिं।।२२५८।।

The saint is the same for all, but the ignorant do not understand. They cut their own throats, yet why don't they go to heaven?