Karma · कर्म (karma)

जो तोको काँटा बुवे, ताहि बोय तू फूल। तोको फूल के फूल हैं, ताके हैं त्रिशूल।।११।।

If someone sows thorns for you, sow flowers for them. You will get flowers, but they will get thorns.

मैं रोऊँ जब जगत को, मोको रोवे न कोय। मोको रोवै सोचकर, जो शब्द बोए सो होय।।२२।।

I cry for the world, but no one cries for me. The world should think about what seeds of words it has sown.

वस्तु है, ग्राहक नहीं, वस्तु सागर अनमोल। बिना करम का मानव, फिरै डांवाडोल।।३५।।

The goods are there but no buyer; the ocean of virtues is priceless. Without good deeds, humans wander aimlessly.

दया-भाव हृदय नहीं, ज्ञान थके बेहद। ते नर नरक ही जाएंगे, सुनि-सुनि साखी-शब्द।।५३।।

Without a compassionate heart, knowledge is of no use. Those who lack compassion will ultimately go to hell, despite hearing many teachings.

मारग चलते जो गिरा, ताकौं नाहि दोष। यह कबीर बैठा रहे, ता सिर करहैं दोष।।५९।।

One who falls while walking the path is not at fault. But if Kabir is sitting, then it is a fault of the head.

फल कारण सेवा करे, करे न मन से काम। कहै कबीर सेवक नहीं, चाहे चौगुना दाम।।६३।।

If someone serves expecting rewards, and does not work sincerely from the heart, Kabir says that person is not a true servant; they are just seeking fourfold returns.

ऊँचे कुल में जामिया, करनी ऊँच न होय। सौंरण कलश सुरा भरी, साधु निंदा सोय।।७२।।

Being born into a high caste does not make one noble. A pot filled with holy water or wine is still considered low if it is used for criticizing the pious.

खेत न छोड़े सूरमा, जूझे दो दल माहि। आशा-जीवन मरण की, मन में राखे नाहि।।८०।।

A brave person does not abandon the field, even if two armies fight. Hope in life and death should remain in the mind.

लीक पुरानी को तजें, कायर कुटिल कपूत। लीक पुरानी पर चलें, साहसी सिंह सपूत।।८१।।

Abandon the old path if you are cowardly, deceitful, and wicked. Stay on the old path if you are a clever and righteous person.

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.

कबीरा मन पँछी भया, भये ते बाहर जाय। जो जैसे संगति करै, सो तैसा फल पाय।।११०।।

Kabir says the mind is like a bird, which flies outside. It receives the fruit according to the company it keeps.

जल की जमी में है रोपा, अभी सींचें सौ बार। कबिरा खलक न तजे, जामे कौन वोचार।।१२५।।

In the frozen water, the seeds are sown, but they must be watered a hundred times. Kabir says, do not abandon the creation, for what will be the use of contemplation?

तब लग तारा जगमगे, जब लग उगे नसूर। तब लग जीव जग कर्मवश, जब लग ज्ञान ना पूर।।१२८।।

Stars continue to shine until dawn breaks. Similarly, life continues with its actions until knowledge is complete.

बन्धे को बँनधा मिले, छूटे कौन उपाय। कर संगति निरबन्ध की, पल में लेय छुड़ाय।।१३३।।

One can find bound people bound by bondage, but there is no way to escape. By associating with the unbound, one can be freed instantly.

बानी से पहचानिए, साम चोर की घात। अन्दर की करनी से सब, निकले मुँह की बात।।१३४।।

Recognize the deceit of a thief through their speech. The truth of one's actions will come out through their words.

माली आवत देख के, कलियान करी पुकार। फूल-फूल चुन लिए, काल हमारी बार।।१३७।।

Seeing the gardener come, Kaliyan (a name for the gardener) called out. Collecting flowers one by one, the time for our end has arrived.

लकड़ी कहै लुहार की, तू मति जारे मोहिं। एक दिन ऐसा होयगा, मैं जारौंगी तोहि।।१४४।।

The wood says to the blacksmith, 'Do not burn me.' One day will come when I will burn you.

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.

जैसी मुख तै नीकसै, तैसी चाले चाल। पार ब्रह्म नेड़ा रहै, पल में करै निहाल।।१८३।।

As is the outward appearance, so are the actions. The Supreme Being is near, and in a moment, one becomes fulfilled.

साईं सेती चोरियाँ, चोरा सेती गुझ। जाणैंगा रे जीवएगा, मार पड़ैगी तुझ।।१८७।।

Thieves are with the Lord, and the thief is with the thief. Know this, O soul, you will be punished for your actions.

कबीर मन पंषो भया, जहाँ मन वहाँ उड़ि जाय। जो जैसी संगति करै, सो तैसे फल खाइ।।१९२।।

The mind becomes what it associates with; it flies wherever it is drawn. One reaps the fruit of their associations.

कबीर मारू मन कूँ, टूक-टूक है जाइ। विष की क्यारी बोइ करि, लुणत कहा पछिताइ।।२०५।।

Kabir says, the mind is like a desert, barren and empty. If you plant poisonous seeds, why would you regret the consequences?

मनह मनोरथ छाँड़िये, तेरा किया न होइ। पाणी में घीव नीकसै, तो रूखा खाइ न कोइ।।२०७।।

Abandon your desires; your actions won't always succeed. If you expect ghee to emerge from water, no one would eat dry food.

कबीर हरि कग नाव, सूँ प्रीति रहै इकवार। तौ मुख तैं मोती झड़ै, हीरे अन्त न पार।।२४३।।

Kabir says, if you have love for Hari with a single boat, pearls will fall from your mouth and diamonds will be found at the end.

लौ लागी विष भागिया, कालख डारी धोय। कहैं कबीर गुरु साबुन सों, कोई इक ऊजल होय।।२६४।।

The fire of poison burns the unfortunate, while time washes away the stain. Kabir says that only the Guru's soap can cleanse anyone of their sins.

सतगुरु खोजो सन्त, जोव काज को चाहहु। मेटो भव को अंक, आवा गवन निवारहु।।२७४।।

Seek the true Guru, O saint, if you wish to achieve your goal. Erase the mark of worldly existence and end the cycle of birth and death.

जाका गुरु है गीरही, गिरही चेला होय। कीच-कीच के धोवते, दाग न छूटे कोय।।२८७।।

If the Guru is worldly, the disciple will also be worldly. No matter how much they try to cleanse themselves, the stains will not go away.

कहता हूँ कहि जात हूँ, देता हूँ हेला। गुरु की करनी गुरु जाने, चेला की चेला।।२९१।।

I speak and go on speaking, without any hesitation. The Guru's deeds are known to him, and the disciple's to the disciple.

शुकदेव सरीखा फेरिया, तो को पावे पार। बिनु गुरु निगुरा जो रहे, पड़े चौरासी धार।।३०१।।

Even if someone as wise as Shukdev wanders around, they cannot cross over without a Guru. Without a Guru, one is bound to fall into the cycle of 84 lakh life forms.

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.

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.

मास-मास नहिं करि सकै, उठे मास अलबत्त। यामें ढील न कीजिये, कहै कबीर अविगत्त।।३१६।।

If one cannot perform rituals every month, they can still do it within a month. Kabir says do not delay in this matter.

साधु कहावत कठिन है, लम्बा पेड़ खजूर। चढ़े तो चाखै प्रेम रस, गिरै तो चकनाचूर।।३३४।।

The saying of a saint is as difficult as climbing a tall date palm tree. If you reach the top, you taste the nectar of love; if you fall, you shatter into pieces.

सन्त होत हैं हेत के, हेतु तहाँ चलि जाय। कहैं कबीर के हेत बिन, गरज कहाँ पतियाय।।३५८।।

Saints act according to their purpose, and once their purpose is served, they move on. Kabir says, without purpose, who will believe in the need?

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.

आशा करै बैकुण्ठ की, दुरमति तीनों काल। शुक्र कही बलि ना करीं, ताते गयो पताल।।४०६।।

Hoping for paradise leads to delusion through all three ages. Praising the goddess without true devotion leads one to hell.

उलटे सुलटे बचन के, शीष न मानै दुख। कहैं कबीर संसार में, सो कहिये गुरुमुख।।४०८।।

One who does not accept the consequences of twisted and deceitful words experiences suffering. Kabir says, such a person is truly a disciple of the guru.

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.

ज्यों कोरी रेजा बुनै, नीरा आवै छौर। ऐसा लेखा मीच का, दौरि सकै तो दौर।।४३१।।

As a potter weaves clay, and clear water comes through. Such is the account of the faithful, if you can run, then run.

बिरिया बीती बल घटा, केश पलटि भये और। बिगरा काज सँभारि ले, करि छूटने की ठौर।।४४२।।

The vigor of youth has passed, strength has diminished, and hair has turned grey. Fix what is broken before it’s too late.

काल काम तत्काल है, बुरा न कीजै कोय। भले भलई पे लहै, बुरे बुराई होय।।४४७।।

Time and actions are immediate; do no evil. Goodness will be rewarded, while evil will lead to downfall.

लेना है सो जल्द ले, कही सुनी मान। कहीं सुनी जुग जुग चली, आवागमन बँधान।।४४८।।

If you need something, take it quickly; heed what is said. What is heard has lasted ages, the cycle of birth and death is bound.

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.

विषय वासना उरझि कर, जनम गंवाया बाद। अब पछितावा क्या करै, निज करनी कर याद।।४५३।।

Involved in sensual desires, life has been wasted. Now what is the use of regret? Remember your own actions.

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?

गुरु की आज्ञा आवई, गुरु की आज्ञा जाय। कहैं कबीर सो संत है, आवागमन नशाय।।४७३।।

Obedience to the Guru's command brings liberation, and thus one is free from the cycle of birth and death.

गुरु महिमा गावत सदा, मन राखे अति मोद। सो भव फिर आवै नहीं, बैठे प्रभु की गोद।।४७४।।

Constantly singing the glory of the Guru, and keeping the mind in great joy, one does not return to the cycle of rebirth but remains in the Lord’s embrace.

गुरु शरणागत छाड़‍ि के, करै भरोसा और। सुख सम्‍पति को कह चली, नहीं नरक में ठौर।।४७९।।

Leaving the refuge of the Guru and relying on others leads to abandoning happiness and wealth, and there is no place in hell for such a person.

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.

गुरु सेवा जन बन्‍दगी, हरि सुमिरन वैराग। ये चारों तबही मिले, पूरन होवे भाग।।४९५।।

Service to the Guru, remembrance of Hari, and renunciation. When these four are achieved, one’s destiny is fulfilled.

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.

गुरु कीजै जानि के, पानी पीजै छानि। बिना बिचारे गुरु करे, परै चौरासी खानि।।५३१।।

Know the guru and drink filtered water. Without consideration, the guru acts, leading to eighty-four reincarnations.

शुकदेव सरिखा फेरिया, तो को पावै पारा। गुरु बिन निगुरा जो रहै, पड़े चौरासी धार।।५५७।।

One who circulates like Shukdev finds the essence. Without a guru, one remains a wanderer and suffers through eighty-four lakhs of births.

तीजे चौथे नहिं करे, बार-बार करु जाय। यामें विलंब न कीजिये, कहैं कबीर समुझाय।।५६७।।

If you do not do it on the third or fourth day, then do it repeatedly. Do not delay in this; Kabir advises to understand this.

पाख पाख नहिं करि सकै, मास-मास करु जाय। यामें देर न लाइये, कहैं कबीर समुझाय।।५६८।।

If you cannot do it seasonally, then do it monthly. Do not delay in this; Kabir advises to understand this.

साधु मिले यह सब टलै, काल-हाल जम चोट। शीश नवावत ढहि परै, अघ्‍ज्ञ पापन के पोट।।५७३।।

All troubles are alleviated when one meets a saint. Time, circumstances, and death are but minor inconveniences. When one bows to a saint, the burden of sins is lifted.

साधु सोई जानिये, चलै साधु की चाल। परमारथ करता रहै, बोलै बचन रसाल।।५९८।।

One should recognize a saint by his actions. A saint continues to do good and speaks words that are full of nectar.

सहज मिलै सो दूध है, मांगि मिले सो पानि। कहैं कबीर वह रक्‍त है, जामें ऐंचातानि।।६४५।।

What comes easily is like milk, while what is sought is like water. Kabir says that what is sought with effort is like blood, filled with hardship.

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.

कबीर संगत साधु की, कभी न निष्‍फल जाय। जो पै बोवै भूनिके, फूल फलै अघाय।।६५०।।

The company of saints is never fruitless. Those who sow seeds in fertile soil will yield abundant flowers and fruits.

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.

साहिब के दरबार में, कमी काहु की नाहि। बन्‍दा मौज न पावहीं, चूक चाकरी माहिं।।६६८।।

In the Lord's court, there is no lack of anything. But the servant does not experience joy due to neglecting their duties.

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.

गुरु आज्ञा मानै नहीं, चले अटपटी चाल। लोक वेद दोनों गये, आये सिर पर काल।।६७७।।

If one disobeys the Guru's command and follows a misguided path, they lose both worldly and spiritual knowledge, and doom awaits them.

सब कुछ गुरु के पास है, पाइये अपने भाग। सेवक मन सौप्‍यां रहै, रहैं चरण में लाग।।६८२।।

Everything is with the Guru; one obtains it by their destiny. The true servant submits their mind and remains devoted at the Guru's feet.

निरबन्‍धन बंधा रहै, बंधा निरबंध होय। कर्म करै करता नहीं, दास कहावै सोय।।६८५।।

The one who is bound by ties is bound by no ties at all. A person who does not perform actions is called a true servant.

और कर्म सब कर्म है, भक्ति कर्म निहकर्म। कहैं कबीर पुकारि के, भक्ति करो तजि भर्म।।७०८।।

All actions are just actions, but devotion is beyond action. Kabir says, renounce deceptive rituals and practice true devotion.

आरत है गुरु भक्ति करु, सब कारज सिध होय। करम जाल भौजाल में, भक्‍त फंसे नहि कोय।।७१५।।

If one is devoted to the guru, all tasks will be fulfilled. In the web of actions, no devotee will be ensnared.

कबीर गुरु की भक्ति बिन, धिक जीवन संसार। धूवां का सा धौरहरा, बिनसत लगे न बार।।७२२।।

Without devotion to the Guru, life and the world are cursed. It is like a cloud of smoke, which never clears away.

नाम जो रत्ती एक है, पाप जु रत्ती हजार। आध रत्ती घट संचरै, जारि करे सब छार।।७३३।।

The name is worth a single unit, whereas sin is worth a thousand units. A half-unit of sin spreads throughout the entire body, burning everything to ashes.

माला सांस उसांस की, फेरै कोई निज दास। चौरासी भरमै नहीं, कटै करम की फांस।।७३४।।

The rosary is like the breath and exhalation; it is only used by a devoted servant. In the cycle of 84 lakh births, it does not cut the threads of karma.

कबीर हरि के मिलन की, बात सुनो हम दोय। कै कछु हरि को नाम ले, कै कर ऊंचा होय।।७४३।।

Listen to the talk of meeting Hari. Some gain by taking the name of Hari, and some achieve greatness by deeds.

सोया सो निष्‍फल गया, जागा सो फल लेहि। साहिब हक्‍क न राखसी, जब मांग तब देहि।।७५३।।

The one who remains asleep is fruitless; the one who wakes up receives the fruit. The Lord will not withhold what is rightfully yours; He will give it when asked.

गोता मारा सिंधु में, मोती लाये पैठि। वह क्‍या माेती पायेंगे, रहे किनारे बैठि।।८३४।।

One dives into the ocean and brings pearls, while those sitting on the shore will never find pearls.

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.

मच्‍छ होय नहीं बचिहों, धीमर तेरो काल। जिहि जिहि डाबर तुम फिरे, तहं तहं मेले जाल।।८५६।।

The fish will not escape, O fisherman, your time has come. Wherever you go with your net, you will find traps everywhere.

कबीर गाफिल क्‍या करै, आया काल नजीक। कान पकरि के ले चले, ज्‍यौं अजियाहि खटीक।।८६५।।

Kabir, what will the careless person do, as death approaches? It grabs you by the ear and takes you away, like a butcher takes a sheep.

मरेंगे मरि जायंगे, कोय न लेगा नाम। ऊजड़ जाय बसाहिंगे, छोड़‍ि बसन्‍ता गाम।।८६८।।

People will die and pass away, and no one will remember their name. Settlements will be deserted, and the village of spring will be abandoned.

आये हैं तो जायेंगे, राजा रंक फकीर। एक सिंहासन चढ़‍ि चले, एक बांधे जात जंजीर।।८७८।।

Everyone who comes must leave, whether king, pauper, or saint. One ascends the throne, and another leaves bound in chains.

विषय वासना उरझिकर, जनम गंवाय बाद। अब पछितावा क्‍या करै, निज करनी कर याद।।८९१।।

Entangled in desires and passions, you wasted your life. Now, what is the use of regret? Remember your actions.

जनमैं मन बिचारि के, कूरे काम निवारि। जिन पंथा तोहि चालना, सोई पंथ संवारि।।९०४।।

Consider the path of the mind and discard futile actions. The path that guides you is the one that leads to fulfillment.

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.

राम नाम जाना नहीं, चके अबकी घात। माटी मिलन कुम्हार की, घनी सहेगी लात।।९०६।।

Not knowing the name of Ram, you face another blow. The potter’s clay will suffer more blows when it meets the dust.

काल करै साे आज कर, सबहि साज तुव साथ। काल काल तू क्‍या करै, काल काल के हाथ।।९०८।।

What you can do today, do it now; all arrangements will follow with time. What can time do to time, when it is in the hands of time?

काल करै सो आज कर, आज करै सो अब। पल में परलय होयगी, बहुहि करेगा कब।।९१२।।

What should be done tomorrow, do today; what should be done today, do now. In a moment, destruction may come; when will you do it then?

बारी पारी आपने, चले पियारे मीत। तेरी बारी जीवरा, नियरै आवै नीत।।९१३।।

Your turn will come after a while, as dear friends move on. Your turn for life is approaching, but it does not come near as expected.

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?

आज काल के बीच में, जंगल होगा बास। ऊपर ऊपर हल फिरै, ढोर चरेंगे घास।।९३१।।

In the midst of Time, there will be a forest dwelling. Above, the plow moves, and cattle graze on the grass.

खाय पकाय लुटाय ले, यह मनुवा मिजमान। लेना हो सो लेइ ले, यही गोय मैदान।।९४१।।

Eat, cook, and plunder, this is the nature of the host. Take what you want; this is the field of action.

मांगन को भल बोलना, चोरन को भल चूप। माली को भल बरसनो, धोबी को भल धूप।।९४५।।

It is good to speak kindly to the beggar, silence is good for the thief. Rain is good for the gardener, and sunlight is good for the washerman.

रितु बसंत याचक भया, हरखि दिया द्रुम पात। ताते नव पल्‍लव भया, दिया दर नहिं जात।।९४७।।

The season of spring has become a beggar, delighting the trees with its leaves. From this, new shoots have emerged, and no one has gone to the door.

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.

खाय पकाय लुटाय के, कर‍ि ले अपना काम। चलती बिरिया रे नरा, संग न चलै छदाम।।९४९।।

Eat, cook, and plunder, and then complete your work. The procession continues, but the deceitful are not carried along.

लेना होय सो जल्‍द ले, कही सुनी मत मान। कही सुनी जुग जुग चली, आवागमन बंधान।।९५०।।

If you need something, take it quickly, do not heed rumors. What is said and heard has been going on for ages, binding cycles of birth and death.

चातुर को चिन्‍ता घनी, नहिं मूरख को लाज। सर अवसर जाने नहीं, पेट भरन सूं काज।।९५३।।

The clever are full of worries, while the foolish have no shame. A wise person does not miss an opportunity; they work to fill their belly.

काल काल तत्‍काल है, बुरा न करिये कोय। अनबोवे लुनता न‍हीं, बोवे लुनता होय।।९५७।।

Time is immediate and does not wait, do not do bad to anyone. If you do not sow salt, you will not reap salt, but if you sow it, you will.

दुरबल को न सताइये, जाकी मोटी हाय। बिना जीव की सांस से, लाह भसम ह्वै जाय।।९५८।।

Do not oppress the weak, for their deep sighs. The melted wax will turn to ashes with the breath of the lifeless.

करता था तो क्‍यौं रहा, अब करि क्‍यौं पछताय। बोवै पेड़ बबूल का, आम कहां ते खाय।।९६६।।

Why did you remain idle when you had the time, why regret now? If you sowed a babool tree, how can you expect to eat mangoes?

काया सों कारज करें, सकल काज की री‍त। कर्म भर्म सब मेट के, राम नाम सौं प्रीत।।९६७।।

Use your body for noble deeds, following the right path. Erase all illusions and attachments, and devote yourself to the love of God's name.

देह खेह हो जायेगी, कौन कहेगा देह। निश्‍चय कर उपकार ही, जीवन का फल येह।।९६८।।

The body will turn to dust, who will then call it a body? Know for sure, only good deeds are the true fruits of life.

धर्म किये धन ना घट, नदी न घटै नीर। अपने आंखो देखि ले, यों कथि कहहिं कबीर।।९७८।।

Righteous deeds do not diminish wealth, just as the river's water does not decrease. See it with your own eyes, thus says Kabir.

गान्ठि होय सो हाथ कर, हाथ होय सो देह। आगे हाट न बानिया, लेना है सो लेह।।९८४।।

Whatever you have in hand, take it as your body. Ahead, there is no market or merchant, take what you can now.

जा तोको काटा बोवै, ताहि बोवै तू फूल। तुझको फूल का फूल है, वाको है तिरशूल।।९८६।।

To the one who sows thorns for you, sow flowers in return. You will receive flowers, while they will receive thorns.

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.

कर्म फंद जग फंदिया, जप तप पूजा ध्‍यान। जाहि शब्‍द ते मुक्ति होय, सो न परा पहिचान।।१००४।।

The world is trapped in the snares of karma, rituals, and meditation. They fail to recognize the word that leads to liberation.

शब्‍द शब्‍द सब कोय कहै, शब्‍द का करो विचार। एक शब्‍द शीतल करै, एक शब्‍द दे जार।।१०१६।।

Everyone speaks words, but reflect on their meaning. One word can cool, while another can burn.

रैन तिमिर नासत भयो, जबही भानु उगाय। सार शब्‍द के जानते, करम भरम मिटि जाय।।१०१७।।

Just as the darkness of night disappears when the sun rises, knowing the essence of the word dispels the illusions of karma.

शब्‍द सम्‍हारे बोलिये, शब्‍द के हाथ न पांव। एक शब्‍द औषधि करे, एक शब्‍द करे घाव।।१०२४।।

Speak words carefully, as they have neither hands nor feet. One word can heal like medicine, while another can wound like a weapon.

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.

भक्‍त मरे क्‍या रोइये, जो अपने घर जाय। रोइये साकट बापुरे, हाटों हाट बिकाय।।१०३४।।

Why weep when a devotee dies, for they return home. Weep for the unfortunate non-believer, who is sold in the marketplace of the world.

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.

पात झरन्‍ता देखि के, हंसती कूपलियां। हम चाले तुम चालियो, धारी बापलियां।।१०४३।।

Seeing the leaves fall, the buds laugh. We are leaving, and you will follow, dear buds.

काल पाय जग ऊपजो, काल पाय सब जाय। काल पाय सब बिनसिहैं, काल काल कह खाय।।१०४४।।

Everything in the world arises in time, and everything passes in time. In time, everything perishes, and time devours all.

चलती चाकी देखि के, दिया कबीरा रोय। दो पाटन के बिच आय के, साबुत गया न कोय।।१०५८।।

Seeing the grinding mill turning, Kabir weeps. Between two stones (millstones), nothing remains whole.

बालपन भोले गया, और जुवा महमंत। वृद्धपने आलस गयो, चला जरन्‍ते अन्‍त।।१०६२।।

Childhood is innocent, youth is grand. Old age brings laziness, and eventually, death follows.

बिरिया बीती बल घटा, केस पलटि भये और। बिगरा काज संभारि लै, करि छूटन की ठौर।।१०६६।।

The youth has passed, and the hair has turned grey. Fix what is broken and find a place to escape.

जारि बारि मिस्‍सी करै, मिस्‍सी करिहै छार। कहैं कबीर कोइला करै, फिर दे दै औतार।।१०७३।।

The coal burns repeatedly, turning to ash. Kabir says, if one acts like coal, they will face the consequences in the end.

माली आवत देखि के, कलियां करें पुकार। फूली फूली चुनि लई, कल हमारी बार।।१०७६।।

Seeing the gardener arrive, the buds call out. Picking the blooming flowers, time is our chance.

तरुवर पात सों यौं कहै, सुनो पात इक बात। या घर याही रीति है, इक आवत इक जात।।१०८७।।

The tree speaks through its leaves, listen to this one truth: In this house, the way is such that things come and go.

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.

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.

धन रहै न जोबन रहै, रहै न गांव न ठांव। कबीर जग में जस रहै, करिदे किसी का काम।।११०१।।

Wealth and youth do not last, nor do villages or places. Kabir says that reputation in the world remains only by serving others.

मेरे मन में परि गई, ऐसी एक दरार। फाटाफटिक पषान ज्‍यूं, मिलै न दूजी बार।।११०६।।

A crack has appeared in my mind, like a stone split. It cannot be found again once it has been broken.

कबीर मन तो एक है, भावै जहां लगाय। भावै गुरु की भक्ति कर, भावे विषय कमाय।।१११२।।

Kabir says the mind is one; it follows where it is inclined. If it inclines towards devotion to the Guru, it will also incline towards worldly pursuits.

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?

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.

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.

खान खरच बहु अन्‍तरा, मन में देख विचार। एक खवावै साधु को, एक मिलावै छार।।११६२।।

There is a great deal of expenditure and waste, but see and reflect within the mind. One is led to the food of a saint, while another is led to ashes.

माया देाय प्रकार की, जो जानै सो खाय। एक मिलावै राम को, एक नरक ले जाय।।११८३।।

Illusion comes in two forms: one that leads to God and one that takes you to hell. The wise understand and choose the right path.

कबीर माया डाकिनी, सब काह् को खाय। दांत उपारुं पापिनी, सन्‍तो नियरै जाय।।११९९।।

Kabir says, illusion is like a witch that consumes everyone. Its fangs are like sins, and it approaches even saints.

भग भोगै भग ऊपजे, भगते बचै न कोय। कहैं कबीर भगते बचै, भक्‍त कहावै सोय।।१२३०।।

Enjoyment and desire both arise from fate, but no one is saved by mere devotion. Kabir says, only those who are truly devoted can escape.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

तिनका कबहूं न निन्दिये, पांव तले जो होय। कबहूं उड़‍ि आंखो परै, पीर घनेरी होय।।१२९८।।

Do not criticize even a small straw that is under your feet. It may fly up and fall on your eyes, causing great pain.

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.

आप राखि परमोधिये, सुनै ज्ञान अकराथि। तुस कूटै कन बाहिरी, कछू न आवै हाथि।।१३०३।।

Preserve yourself with wisdom, for those who speak knowledge but act otherwise gain nothing.

कथनी थोथी जगत में, करनी उत्तम सार। कहैं कबीर करनी भली, उतरै भोजन पार।।१३०५।।

Words are hollow in this world; action is the essence. Kabir says that good deeds are like nourishing food.

कथनी बदनी छाड़‍ि दे, करनी सों चित लाय। कर सो जल प्‍याये बिना, कबहुं प्‍यास न जाय।।१३०९।।

Give up hollow words, and focus on actions. Without drinking water, thirst cannot be quenched.

कथनी कथै तो क्‍या हुआ, करनी ना ठहराय। कालबूत का कोट ज्‍यौं, देखते ही ढहि जाय।।१३१०।।

What is the use of mere words if actions do not persist? Like a fort of sand, it collapses as soon as it is seen.

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.

कबीर करनी आपनी, कबहुं न निष्‍फल जाय। सात समुद्र आड़ा पड़े, मिलै अगाऊ आय।।१३१७।।

Kabir says, one's own actions never go in vain. Even if seven oceans come in the way, the reward will come eventually.

श्रम ही ते सब कुछ बने, बिन श्रम मिल न काहि। सीधी अंगुली घी जम्‍मो, कबहूं निकसै नाहिं।।१३१९।।

Everything is achieved through hard work; nothing is obtained without effort. Just as ghee cannot come out of a straight finger, success requires labor.

जैसी मुख ते नीकसे, तैसी चालै नाहिं। मानुष नहीं वे श्‍वान गति, बांधे जमपुर जांहि।।१३२०।।

One's actions should match their words; otherwise, they are not human but like dogs, bound by the noose of fate.

रहनी के मैदान में, कथनी आवै जाय। कथनी पीसै पीसना, रहनी अमल कमाय।।१३२१।।

In the field of living, words come and go. Words are like grinding, while living involves practical action.

करनी बीन कथनी कथै, अज्ञानी दिन रात। कूकर सम भूकत फिरै, सुनी सुनाई बात।।१३२२।।

Without actions, mere words are meaningless. Ignorant people speak day and night without understanding, like a dog that keeps barking at hearsay.

जैसी करनी जासु की, तैसी भुगते सोय। बिन सतगुरु की भक्ति के, जनम जनम दुख होय।।१३२३।।

One experiences the results according to their own actions. Without devotion to the true guru, one suffers throughout lifetimes.

करनी का रजमा नहीं, कथनी मेरु समान। कथता बकता मर गया, मूरख मूढ़ अजान।।१३२४।।

Actions are not as transient as words, which are like Mount Meru. The speaker who only talks but does not act, is foolish and ignorant.

कबीर करनी क्‍या करै, जो गुरु नहीं सहाय। जिहि जिहि डारी पगु धरै, सों सों निंवनिंव जाय।।१३२५।।

What can actions achieve if there is no guru to assist? Wherever one places their foot, they sink deeper without guidance.

चोर चोराई टूंबरी, गाड़े पानी मांहि। वह गाड़े तो ऊछलै, करनी छानी नाहिं।।१३२६।।

A thief hides in a well, and when the water is filled, he jumps out. Actions reveal their truth, unlike superficial appearances.

करनी बिन कथनी कथै, गुरु पद लहै न सोय।। बातों के पकवान से, धीरा नाहीं कोय।।१३२७।।

Without actions, mere words are meaningless. One cannot attain the guru's position with just words. No one becomes wise through mere talks.

मारग चलते जो गिरै, ताको नाहिं दोस। कहैं कबीर बैठा रहै, ता सिर करड़े कोस।।१३२८।।

One who falls while walking on the path is not to be blamed. Kabir says, sitting idly and not trying is like a head that takes a hundred blows.

कैसा भी सामर्थ्‍य हो, बिन उद्यम दुख पाय। निकट असन बिन कर चले, कैसे मुख में जाय।।१३२९।।

No matter how capable one is, without effort, one suffers. Without labor, how can food reach one's mouth?

जब तू आया जगत में, लोग हंसे तू रोय। ऐसी करनी ना करो, पीछे हंसे सब कोय।।१३३१।।

When you entered the world, people laughed while you cried. Do not act in a way that will make people laugh at you later.

काया खेत किसान मन, पाप पुन्न दो बीव। बोया लूनै आपना, काया कसकै जीव।।१३३२।।

The body is like a field and the mind like a farmer. The actions of sins and virtues are like seeds sown; the consequences affect the body.

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.

बखत कहो या करम कहु, नसिब कहो निरधार। सहस नाम हैं करम के, मन ही सिरजनहार।।१३३५।।

Whether you call it time, actions, or fate, all are dependent on destiny. Thousands are the names of actions, but the mind is the creator.

कबीर कमाई आपनी, कबहु न निष्‍फल जाय। सात समुद्र आड़ा पड़े, मिलै अगाड़ी आय।।१३३८।।

Kabir's own efforts are never in vain. Even if seven seas stand in the way, they will be crossed.

परारब्‍ध पहिले बना, पीछे बना सरीर। कबीर अचम्‍भा है यही, मन नहिं बांधे धीर।।१३३९।।

Destiny is formed first, and then the body is created. Kabir finds it astonishing that the mind does not remain steadfast.

रे मन भाग्‍यहि भूल मत, जो आया मन भाग। सो तेरा टलता नहीं, निश्‍चय संसै त्‍याग।।१३४०।।

O mind, do not forget destiny; what has come to you will not change. Renounce doubts and accept what is.

लिखा मिटै नहीं करम का, गुरु कर भज हरिनाम। सीधे मारग नित चलै, दया धर्म बिसराम।।१३४१।।

Actions are not erased by writing; worship the divine name with devotion. Always walk on the straight path, and let compassion and righteousness guide you.

जहं यह जियरा पगु धरे, बखत बराबर साथ। जो है लिखा नसीब में, चलै न अविचल बात।।१३४४।।

Wherever the soul takes a step, time always accompanies it. What is written in destiny will unfold unerringly.

कीन्‍हे बिना उपाय कछु, देव कबहु नहिं देत। खेत बीज बोवै नहीं, तो क्‍यौं जामैं खेत।।१३४६।।

Without making an effort, nothing is given by the divine. If you don't sow seeds in the field, why expect a harvest?

करे बुराई सुख चहै, कैसे पावै कोय। रोपै पेड़ बबूल का, आम कहां ते होय।।१३४७।।

If one engages in wrongdoing and desires happiness, how can one attain it? Planting a babool tree, how can one expect mangoes?

अकिल बिहूना आंधरा, गज फन्‍दे पड़ो आय। ऐसे सब लग बंधिया, काहि कहूं समझाय।।१३६२।।

The blind man without wisdom is like an elephant caught in a trap. Everyone is bound like this, how can I explain it to them?

चिउंटी चावल ले चली, बिच में मिल गयी दाल। कहैं कबीर दो न मिलै, इक ले दूजी डाल।।१३६८।।

An ant carried away a grain of rice, but got a bit of lentil too. Kabir says, if you can't have both, take one and leave the other.

मरती बिरियां दान दे, जीवन बड़ा कठोर। कहैं कबीर क्‍यों पाइये, खांड़ा का व चोर।।१३७५।।

At the time of death, people give charity, but life has been harsh. Kabir says, why should we praise a thief with a sword?

जहां दया वहां धर्म है, जहां लोभ तहं पाप। जहां क्रोध वहां काल है, जहां क्षमा वहां आप।।१३९०।।

Where there is compassion, there is righteousness; where there is greed, there is sin. Where there is anger, there is death; where there is forgiveness, there is God.

सांच बराबर तप नहीं, झूठ बराबर पाप। जाके हिरदे सांच है, ताके हिरदे आप।।१४२३।।

There is no penance equal to truth, and falsehood is equivalent to sin. The one whose heart is true, their heart itself is the truth.

नांव न जांगौं गांव का, मारगि लागा जांऊं। काल्हि जु काटा भाजिसी, पहिली क्‍यों न खड़ाऊं।।१४२४।।

I do not want to wander in the village by name; I want to walk on the path. Why wait until tomorrow to make a change, when it could be done today?

अंकूर ते बीज बीज ते अंकुर, अंकुर बीज संभारे। काया ते कर्म कर्म ते काया, कोई बिरला जना निखारे।।१४३९।।

From the sprout comes the seed, and from the seed comes the sprout. Similarly, from the body comes action, and from action comes the body; few understand this.

इहां ई शंबल करि लेउ, आगे विषयी वाट। स्‍वर्ग बिसाहन सब चले, जहं बनिया नहि हाट।।१४५४।।

In this world, if you accumulate wealth, it will only lead to a difficult path ahead. Even heaven is deserted; where there is no market for merchants.

एक एक निरुवारिये, जो निरुवारी जाय। दुई मुख के बोलना, घना तमाचा खाय।।१४६०।।

One must overcome each problem, as every solution leads to another. Speaking with a double-tongue only invites slaps.

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.

काहे हरिणी दुर्बली, चरे हरियरे ताल। लक्ष्‍य अहेरी एक मृग, केतिक टारे भाल।।१४८४।।

Why is the deer so weak, even though it grazes on green grass? The hunter targets one, but how long can the arrow be avoided?

केला तबहि न चेतिया, जब ढिग लागा बेर। अब के चेते क्‍या भया, जब कांटेनि लिन्‍हा घेर।।१४८६।।

You did not realize when the thorn bush was nearby, and now what is the use of realization after being surrounded by thorns?

घुंघची भर के बाये, उपजी पसेरी आठ। डेरा परा काल, सांझ सकारो जाय।।१५००।।

From a handful of seeds, a large harvest grows. But when death arrives, it takes everything away, whether it is morning or evening.

चलती चक्‍की देख के, मेरे नयन आया रोय। दो पाटन के अन्‍तरे, सालिम बचा न कोय।।१५०४।।

Seeing the grinding mill in motion, tears come to my eyes. Between the two grinding stones, no grain is spared.

जरा मरण बालापना, चौथा वृद्ध अवस्‍था आह। जस मुसमसा तके बिलाइ, अस जम घात लगाय।।१५१३।।

Youth, death, childhood, and the fourth is old age. Just like a cat stalks a mouse, death strikes similarly.

जहर जिमीदे रोपिया, अमि सींचे सत बार। कबीर खलक नाहीं तजे, जामहं जौन बिचार।।१५१५।।

If you sow poison and water it with nectar a hundred times, Kabir says, it won’t yield good results; the world won’t abandon its wrong ways.

जाके चलते रौंदे परा, धरती होइ बेहाल। सो सावन्‍त घर में जरे, पंडित करहु विचार।।१५१९।।

The one whose actions cause the earth to suffer, such a powerful person will burn in his own house; O learned ones, think about this.

जीव घात नहि कीजिए, बहुरि लेत वै कान। तीरथ गए न बांचिहु, कोटि हीरा देहु दान।।१५२९।।

Do not harm any living being, for karma will repay. Pilgrimages won't save you, even if you donate millions of diamonds.

जीव जनि मारह बापुरा, सबका एकहि प्राण। हत्‍या कबहूं न छुटि है, कोटिक सुनउ पुराण।।१५३०।।

Do not kill the innocent, for all share the same life force. Murder is never forgiven, even if you hear a million scriptures.

जैसी कहे करे जो, तैसी राग द्वेष निरुवारे। ता महं घटै बट्टे रतियो नहिं, यहि विधि आपु समारे।।१५३७।।

One’s actions reflect their inner feelings of attachment and aversion. In such a state, the mind is not at peace, and this method governs itself.

जैसी लागी ओर की, तैसी निबहै छोर। कोड़ी कोड़ी जोरि के, कीन्‍हों लक्ष्‍य करोर।।१५३९।।

As one treats others, so shall they be treated. By accumulating wealth bit by bit, one might achieve a great goal.

ताकी पूरी क्‍यों परे, गुरु न लखाई बाट। ताके बेरा बूड़ही, फिरि औघट घाट।।१५५५।।

Why does the task remain incomplete? The guru does not show the way. When the time is over, it returns to the same old path.

तीरथ गए तीन तीन जना, चित चंचल मन चोर। एको पाप न काटिया, लादिन मन दस और।।१५६२।।

Three people went on pilgrimage, with restless and thieving minds. They did not cut a single sin, but carried ten more in their minds.

धौं की डाही लाकरी, ओभी करे पुकार। अब जो जाय लोहार घर, डाढे दूजी बार।।१५७१।।

The broken piece of wood also cries out. Now if one goes to a blacksmith's house, it is beaten again and again.

नाम न जाने ग्राम को, भूलो मारग जाय। काल्हि गड़गा कण्‍टक, अगुमन कस कराय।।१५७९।।

One who does not know the name of the village loses the way. Yesterday's thunder and thorns lead to trouble in the future.

पंच तत्त ले या तन कीन्‍हा, सो तन काही ले दीन्‍हा। कर्महि के वश जीव कहत है, कर्महि को जिव दीन्‍ह।।१५८०।।

The body is composed of the five elements, and it is given its form. The life of the being is subject to actions, and actions define the life.

फल में परले बीतिया, लोगहि लागु तिवारि। आगिल सोच निवारि के, पाछिल करहु गुहारि।।१५८७।।

The fruit has become overripe, and people are waiting for it to fall. Instead of worrying about the future, address the concerns of the past.

पाणि पियावत का फिरो, घर घर सायर बारि। तुषावंत जो होंहिगे, पीवहिंगे झख मारि।।१५८९।।

Drinking water and wandering, visiting each house. Those who are wise, enjoy without hesitation; the foolish are caught in a cycle.

बनते भागा बिहुड़े परा, करहा अपने बाने। करहा बेदन कासों कहे, को करहा को जाने।।१६०४।।

Fortune and misfortune are created, but their actions are different. One might speak of pain, but who knows whose actions are whose?

बहुबंधन के बंधिया, एक विचारा जीव। के छूटे बल आपने, के छुड़ावे पीव।।१६१०।।

Bound by many ties, the soul ponders. Some may free themselves, while others need help from the beloved to be liberated.

मानुष केरी बड़ पापिया, अक्षर गुरुहिं न मान। बार-बार बने कूकही, गर्भ धरे औधान।।१६३८।।

Humans are great sinners, they do not respect the words of the Guru. Repeatedly they become fool, bearing the burden of ignorance.

मूढ कर्मिया मानवा नख, शिख पाखर आहि। वाहनहारा का करे, जो बाण न लागे ताहि।।१६४३।।

Foolish human actions are like the claws and feathers of a bird. What can the rider do if the arrow does not hit?

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.

राह विचारी क्‍या करै, जो पन्थि नचले बिचारि। अपना मारग छोड़‍ि के, फिरे उजारि उजारि।।१६६७।।

What can one do by pondering the path, if the traveler does not move forward? Leaving one's own path, one wanders aimlessly.

लोभे जन्‍म गमाइया, पापे खाया पुण्‍य। साधी सो आधीकहै, ता पर मेरा खून।।१६७०।।

Greed gives birth to troubles, sins are consumed and virtues are earned. The one who maintains this balance is my own blood.

लाहा केरी नावरी, पाहन गरुवा भार। सिर पर विष की पोटरी, उतरन चाहे पार।।१६७१।।

The burden of iron is heavy, and the stone weighs down. The pot of poison on the head desires to cross over.

शब्‍दै मारा गिर पड़ा, शब्‍दै छोड़ा राज। जिन्‍ह जिन्‍ह शब्‍द विचारिया, ताको सर गयो काज।।१६७७।।

One who is struck by words falls down, and those who forsake the word lose their kingdom. Those who contemplate the word, their work is accomplished.

हंसा तु सुवरण वरण, कहां वरणों मैं तोहिं। तरुवर पाय पहेलहु, तबहि सराहौ तोहिं।।१७०९।।

O swan, you are of golden hue, where is the recognition for you? Only after climbing the tree will you be praised.

कबीर मूंडठ करमियां, नष सिष पाषर ज्‍यांह। बांहणहारा क्‍या करै, बांण न लागै त्‍यांह।।१७२४।।

Kabir says, the actions of the wicked destroy the essence of the stone. What can the archer do when the arrow does not hit the mark?

देखौ कर्म कबीर का, कछु पुरब जनम का लेख। जाका महल न मुनि लहैं, (सो) दोसत किया अलेख।।१७९१।।

Observe Kabir's deeds, some are records from previous lives. What the sage could not attain, that friend achieved the unimaginable.

औसर बीता अलपतन, पीस रह्मा परदेस। कलंक उतारी केसवां, भांनौ भरंम अंदेश।।१८५९।।

The time for repentance is short, and you are wasting it in ignorance. Remove the stains of sin, for illusion and doubt have taken over.

कबीर करत है बीनती, भौसागर के तांई। बंदे ऊपरि जोर होत है, जंम कूं बारिज गुसाई।।१८६०।।

Kabir pleads to the Lord, for the ocean of life is vast. The burden on the soul is great, and rebirths are countless.

राम नाम करि बोहड़ा, बोहो बीज अघाई। अंति कालि सूका पड़, तौ निरफल कदे न जाई।।१८७२।।

Make the name of Ram your raft and sow the seeds of good deeds abundantly. Even in the end times of drought, they will never go to waste.

करम करीमां लिखि रह्या, अब कछू लिख्‍या न जाइ। मासा घटै न तिल बढ़ैं, जो कोटिक करै उपाइ।।१८७५।।

Fate is already written, and nothing can change it. Not even a grain can be reduced or added, no matter how many efforts are made.

मीठा खांण मधुकरीं, भांति भांति को नाज। दावा किसही का नहीं, बिन बिलाइति बड़ राज।।१८८०।।

Sweet is the taste of alms, with a variety of foods. But nothing belongs to anyone; without earning, even a kingdom is meaningless.

चंदन भांगा गुण करै, जैसे चोली पंन। बोइ जनां भागां न मिलै, मुकताहल अरु मंन।।१८८९।।

Even when broken, sandalwood retains its fragrance, like a torn garment still providing some cover. Those who sow bad deeds will not reap good fortune, liberation, or peace of mind.

कबीर किया कछू न होत है, अनकीया सब होइ। दर‍िगह तेरी सांइयां, नांमहरूम न होइ।।१८९७।।

Kabir, nothing happens as a result of our actions; everything happens as destined. In your court, O Lord, no one goes unrewarded.

कबीर करणी क्‍या करै, जे राम न करै सहाइ। जिहि जिहि डाली पग धरै, सोई नवि नवि जाइ।।१९०४।।

Kabir says, what can deeds accomplish if the Lord does not assist? Whichever branch you step on, it bends and breaks.

सूरा तबही कै परषिये, लडै दीन कै हेत। पुरिजा पुरिजा ह्व पड़ै, तऊ न छांडै खेत।।१९१४।।

The hero fights for the sake of the poor, but when the field becomes barren, he does not abandon it.

खेत न छाडै सूरिवां, झझै द्वै दल मांहि। आसा जीवन मरण की, मन मैं आंणै नाहि।।१९१५।।

The true hero does not abandon the field, even when it is divided into two parts. There is no hope in the mind about life and death.

कबीर प्रगट राम कहि, छांनै राम न गाइ। फूस क जौंड़ा दूरि करि, ज्‍यूं बहुरि न लागै लाइ।।१९३०।।

Kabir says, if one speaks of the revealed Ram but does not sing of Ram, then it is like removing the thatch from the roof, which does not stop the rain from falling again.

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.

कबीर गुदड़ी बीषरी, सौदा गया बिकाइ। खोटा बांध्‍या गांठड़ी, इब कुछ लिया न जाइ।।१९७७।।

Kabir's worn-out rag has been sold. The false knot that was tied, now nothing is taken.

काम मिलावे राम कूं, जे कोइ जांणे राषि। कबीर बिचारा क्‍या करे, जाकी सुखदेव बोले साषि।।१९९८।।

One who understands the essence of work achieves Ram. What can the poor Kabir do, whom even Sukdev has praised?

कबीर संगति साध की, कदे न निष्‍फल होइ। चंदन होसी बांवना, नीव न कहसी कोइ।।२००८।।

The company of the virtuous is never fruitless. Even sandalwood, if applied, will not diminish its fragrance.

कबीर तास मिलाइ, जास हियाली तू बसै। नहिं तर बेगि उठाइ, नित को गंजन को सहै।।२०१७।।

Kabir says that meeting such a person where the heart is at peace, does not require hasty actions or enduring hardships.

काजल केरी कोठरी, मसि के कर्म कपाट। पाहनि बोई पृथमी, पंडित पाड़ी बाट।।२०२२।।

The room of kajal (kohl) is the place of actions with ink. The cloth is the first to be worn, and the scholar shows the way.

अब तो एसी ह्वै पड़ी, नां तू बड़ी न बेलि। जालण आंणो लाकड़ी, ऊठी कूंपल मेल्हि।।२०३१।।

Now it is like this, neither big nor much. The firewood is burning, but the sprouts are coming up.

कबीर कड़ई बेलड़ी, कड़वा ही फल होइ। सांध नांव तब पाइए, जे बेलि बिछौहा होई।।२०३५।।

Kabir says, the fruit of a bitter vine is always bitter. Only a blessed soul can find peace, if the vine is used as a bed.

परनारी राता फिरै, चोरी विढता खांहिं। दिवस चारि सरसा रहै, अंति समूला जांहिं।।२०३९।।

A woman who roams around with someone else's affection appears sweet for a few days, but ultimately, she ends up in ruin.

विषै कर्म की कंचुली, पहरि हुआ नर नाग। सिर फोड सूझै नहीं, को आगिला अभाग।।२०५५।।

Wearing the skin of worldly deeds, the man became a serpent. Even after smashing his head, he sees no way out, his misfortune prevails.

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.

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.

साषित सण का जेवड़ा, भींगां सू कठठाइ। दोइ अषिर गुरू बाहिरा, बांध्‍या जमपुरि जाइ।।२०७१।।

The rope made of straw, soaked and hardened. Those without a true Guru are bound and taken to the city of death.

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.

साधु सती औ शूरमां, इन पटतर कोई नाहिं। अगम पंथ को पग धरै, डिगै तो कहां समाहि।।२०९२।।

Saints, virtuous ones, and warriors are incomparable. They walk the path of the unknown, and if they falter, where would they go?

साधु सती औ शूरमां, राखा रहै न ओर। माथा बांधि पताक सों, नेजा घालैं चोर।।२०९३।।

Saints, virtuous ones, and warriors cannot be protected in any other way. Even if one wraps their head in a flag, thieves will still intrude.

कहै दरबारी बातरी, क्‍यों पावै वह धाम। शीश उतारै संचरै, नाहिं और को काम।।२०९७।।

The courtier speaks of divine realms, but why does he attain that state? He bows his head and wanders, but does not engage in other tasks.

जोग ते जौहर भला, घरी एकका काम। आठ पहरका जूझना, बिना खंडे संग्राम।।२१०९।।

Asceticism and valor are good, but for a short time. Struggling for eight hours without interruption is like a battle without weapons.

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.

नेह निबाहे ही बनै, सोच बनें न आन। तन दै मन दै शीस दै, नेह न दीजै जान।।२११७।।

Love is nurtured by fulfilling promises, not by mere thoughts. One should offer their body, mind, and head, and not just talk of love.

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.

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.

शरा थोराही भला, सतका रोपै पग्‍ग। घना मिला कहि काम का, सावन का सा बग्‍ग।।२१२७।।

A small blade is useful, and a footpath that leads well. A lot is gained from work, like the monsoon brings rain.

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.

राम झरोखै बठिके, सबका मुजरा लेय। जैसी जाको चाकरी, तैसी सबको देय।।२१४२।।

Sitting at the window of Ram, receiving all greetings. Each is given according to their service to him.

खेल जु मांड़ा खिलाडि सौं, आनंद बढा अघाय। अब पासा काहूपरौ, प्रेम बंधा युग जाय।।२१४५।।

The game is played with the players, and joy increases. Now the dice are cast, and love binds the ages.

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.

मा मारी धी घर करै, गऊ सो बच्‍छा खाय। ब्राह्मन मारै मदपिये, तो स्‍वर्गापुर जाय।।२१४८।।

The mother dies, and the daughter-in-law manages the house, the cow eats the calf. If the Brahmin kills the drunkard, he goes to heaven.

चंदन काटा जड खनी, बांधिलिया शिर मार। कालि जा पंछी बसि गया, तिसका यह उपकार।।२१५३।।

Chandan was cut at the root, and his head was bound. The black bird settled there, this is his favor.

हंस काग की पारिखा, सतगुरु दई बताय। हंसा तो मोती चुगैं, काग नरक परिजाय।।२१७६।।

The swan and the crow are judged by the Satguru. The swan picks pearls, while the crow ends up in hell.

कबिरा करत है बीनती, भवसागर के तांइ। बंदे पर जोरा होत है, यम को बरजु गुसांइ।।२१८०।।

Kabir makes a plea to cross the ocean of existence. When one is bound, it is the deity of death who is the true enforcer.

औगुन किया तो बहु किया, करत न मानी हारि। भावै बंदा बखशियो, भावै गरदन मारि।।२१८९।।

If faults are committed, many are committed. One does not accept defeat. Either the person is forgiven, or their neck is struck down.

मैं खोटा सांई खरा, मैं गाधा मैं गार। मैं अपराधी आतमा, सांई शरन उबार।।२१९३।।

I am flawed, but the Lord is perfect; I am impure and foolish. I am a sinful soul; O Lord, save me by your grace.

मैं अपराधी जनम का, नख शिख भरो बिकार। तुम दाता दुख भंजना, मेरी करो संभार।।२१९४।।

I am a sinner by birth, filled with flaws from head to toe. You are the giver and the destroyer of sorrow; please take care of me.

और पतित तो कूप है, मैं हों समुद्र समान। मोहिं टेक तोह नाम की, सुनियो कृपा निधान।।२१९६।।

Others may be like a well, but I am like an ocean of sin. I rely only on your name; O treasure of mercy, please listen to me.

सांई मेरा सावधान, मैं ही भया अचेत। मन बच करम न हरि भजा, ताते निष्‍फल खेत।।२१९८।।

My Lord is vigilant, but I have been careless. Neither in mind, word, nor deed have I worshiped the Lord, thus my field has become barren.

मांस मछलिया खात हैं, सुरापान से हेत। ते नर नरकै जाहिंगे, माता पिता समेत।।२२३८।।

Those who consume meat and fish and drink alcohol, will go to hell along with their parents.

मांस मछलिया खात हैं, सुरापान सों हेत। ते नर नरकै जांहिंगे, ज्‍यों मूरी का खेत।।२२३९।।

Those who consume meat and fish, and drink alcohol, will go to hell like a field of mud.

मांस भखै औ मद पिये, धन वेश्‍या सों खाय। जूआ खेलि चोरी करै, अंत समूला जाय।।२२४०।।

One who consumes meat and drinks alcohol, eats with prostitutes, gambles, and commits theft, will meet a complete downfall in the end.

मांस मांस सब एक है, मुरगी हिरनी गाय। आंखि देखि नर खात है, ते नर नरकहिं जाय।।२२४१।।

Meat is meat, whether it is chicken, deer, or cow. When humans consume it, they will go to hell.

यह कूकर को भक्ष है, मनुष्‍य देह क्‍यों खाय। मुख में आमिख मेलिके, नरक परते जाय।।२२४२।।

This is the food for dogs, why should it be eaten by humans? With such impurities in the mouth, one will end up in hell.

कलियुग केरा ब्राह्मना, मांस मछलिया खाय। पांय लगे सुखमानई, राम कहे जारि जाय।।२२४४।।

In the Kali Yuga, Brahmins eat meat and fish. Even if they touch their feet, they will perish, says Ram.

पापी पूजा बैठिकै, भखे मांस मद दाइ। तिनकी दीक्षा मुक्ति नहिं, कोटि नरक फल होई।।२२४५।।

The sinner who sits in worship, with hunger for flesh and intoxication. His initiation does not lead to liberation, instead results in millions of hellish consequences.

जीव हनै हिंसा करै, प्रगट पाप सिर होय। पाप सबै जो देखिया, पुन्‍य न देखा कोय।।२२४८।।

Killing living beings and committing violence are obvious sins. When I looked around, I saw only sins, and no one engaged in virtuous deeds.

जीव हनै हिंसा करै, प्रगट पाप सिर होय। निगम पुनि ऐसे पाप तें, भिस्‍त गया नहिं कोय।।२२४९।।

Killing living beings and committing violence are obvious sins. According to the scriptures, no one who commits such sins has ever reached heaven.

हत्‍या सोही हन्‍नसी, भावै जानि बिजान। कर गहि चोटी तानसी, साहब के दीवान।।२२५०।।

Murderers will continue to kill, whether knowingly or unknowingly. They will be dragged by their hair before the Lord's court.

तिलभर मछली खाय के, कोटि गऊ दै दान। काशी करात लै मरै, तो भी नरक निदान।।२२५१।।

Even if one eats a tiny bit of fish and then donates millions of cows, Or dies in Kashi with sacred rituals, hell is still their destiny.

बकरी पाती खात है, ताकी काढी खाल। जो बकरी को खात है, तिनका कौन हवाल।।२२५३।।

The goat eats leaves, yet its skin is stripped off. What fate awaits those who eat the goat itself?

मुरगी मुल्‍ला सों कहै, जबह करत है मोहिं। साहब लेखा मांगसी, संकट परिहै तोहिं।।२२५९।।

The hen says to the Mulla, 'You slaughter me, But when God asks for your account, you will be in trouble.'

जोरी करि जबह करै, मुखसों कहै हलाल। साहब लेखा मांगसी, तब होसी कौन हवाल।।२२६३।।

They commit slaughter by force, claiming it is permissible. When God asks for an account, what will be their state?

जोर कीयां जुलूम है, मागै ज्‍वाब खदाय। खलिक दर खूनी खड़ा, मार मुही मुंह खाय।।२२६४।।

Oppression by force is cruelty, for which God will demand an answer. The creator stands before the murderer, and their actions will devour them.