Theme
The thinking, restless, conditioned mind.
440 dohe
कबिरा माला मनहि की, और संसारी भीख। माला फेरे हरि मिले, गले रहट के देख।।२।।
Kabir says, the true rosary is the one in the mind, while worldly desires are like begging. If one could find God by rotating a rosary, then why don’t you see the oxen tied to a well becoming saints?
क्या भरोसा देह का, बिनस जात छिन माँह। सांस-सांस सुमिरन करो, और यतन कुछ नाँह।।१६।।
What is the trust in this body? It can perish in a moment. Remember God with every breath, there is no other effort needed.
दान दिए धन ना घटे, नदी न घटे नीर। अपनी आँखों देख लो, यूँ क्या कहे कबीर।।१८।।
Giving away wealth does not decrease it, just as water does not decrease in a river. See this with your own eyes, says Kabir.
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.
सोया साधु जगाइए, करे नाम का जाप। ये तीनों सोए भले, साकत, सिंह, और साँप।।२३।।
Wake up a sleeping saint to chant the name of God. But let these three sleep: the worldly, the lion, and the snake.
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.
जागन में सोवन करे, साधन में लौ लाय। सूरत-डोर लागी रहे, तार टूट नाहिं जाय।।३८।।
Those who sleep during awakening and bring light in practices will have their sight remain steady, like a thread that doesn’t break.
सुमिरन में मन लाइए, जैसे नाद कुरंग। कहैं कबीर, बिसरे नहीं, प्राण तजै तहि संग।।४२।।
Focus your mind on remembrance, like a deer chasing the sound. Kabir says one who does not forget it, even when giving up life, is the true devotee.
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.
जा कारण जग ढूँढ़िया, सो तो घट ही मांहि। परदा दिया भरम का, ताते सूझे नाहिं।।४६।।
What you seek in the world is within you. The veil of delusion covers it, and therefore, you cannot see it.
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.
तन बोझत, मन काग है, लक्ष योजन उड़ि जाय। कबहुँ के धर्म अगम दई, कबहुँ गगन समाय।।६६।।
The body is very frail and the mind is like a crow that flies away. Sometimes the path of righteousness is elusive, sometimes it is as vast as the sky.
सुमिरन की सुबिझ करो, ज्यों गागर पनिहार। होले-होले सुरत में, कहैं कबीर विचार।।७३।।
Just as a water-bearer carefully handles a pitcher, keep your mind gently focused on remembrance. Kabir speaks of this understanding.
ज़हर की ज़र्मी में है रोपा, अभी खींचे सौ बार। कबिरा खलक न तजे, जामे कौन विचार।।७६।।
Even if poison is planted a hundred times, the soul does not abandon the body. Kabir questions, who can contemplate this?
लोग भरोसे कौन के, बैठे रहें उरगाय। जीय रही लूटत जम फिरे, मेंढ़ा लुटे कसाय।।७७।।
Whom can people rely on, while they sit comfortably? Life continues to be robbed by time, and the wicked are looting everywhere.
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.
अपने-अपने साख की, सब ही लीनी जान। हरि की बात दुरंतरा, पूरी न कहूँ पहचान।।९२।।
Everyone has their own reputation; all are aware of it. The words of the Divine are profound; I cannot fully describe them.
आवत गारी एक है, उलटन होय अनेक। कहै कबीर न उलटिए, वही एक की एक।।९४।।
An insult may come in one form, but its effects are numerous. Kabir says, do not get distressed; it is all the same.
काह भरोसा देह का, बिनस जात छिन मारहिं। साँस-साँस सुमिरन करो, और यतन कछु नाहिं।।१०५।।
Why rely on the body, which perishes every moment? Remember the Divine with every breath and make no other effort.
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.
कबिरा मनहि गयन्द है, आकुंश दै-दै राखि। विष की बेली परि रहै, अम्रत को फल चाखि।।११४।।
The mind is intoxicated and keeps grasping at attachment. It remains entangled in the poisonous vine while it tastes the fruit of immortality.
तन को जोगी सब करे, मन को बिरला कोय। सहजै सब विधि पाइये, जो मन जोगी होय।।१२७।।
Many practice yoga for the body, but few do so for the mind. The true essence is easily attained if the mind is focused on yoga.
दस द्वारे का पींजरा, तामें पंछी मौन। रहे को अचरज भयौ, गये अचम्भा कौन।।१२९।।
In the cage with ten doors, the bird remains silent. It is surprising that no one notices, and who is astonished by this?
भज दीना कहूँ और ही, तन साधुन के संग। कहैं कबीर कारी गजी, कैसे लागे रंग।।१३६।।
Worship the poor and be in the company of saints. Kabir says, how can the color of a blacksmith be perceived?
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?
कबीरा राम रिझाइ लै, मुखि अमृत गुण गाइ। फूटा नग ज्यूं जोड़ि मन, संधे संधि मिलाइ।।१५७।।
Kabir has won over Ram by singing the nectar-like qualities of His name. Just as a pot fills up with water when it is joined to a source, the mind meets with the divine essence.
बिरह-भुवगम तन बसै, मंत्र न लागै कोइ। राम-बियोगी ना जिवै, जिवै तो बौरा होइ।।१५८।।
The body suffers from separation and intense longing; no mantra or ritual seems effective. A person separated from Ram cannot live peacefully; they become mad with longing.
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.
कबीर कलिजुग आइ करि, कीये बहुत जो भीत। जिन दिल बांध्या एक सूं, ते सुख सोवै निचींत।।१६४।।
In this Kali Yuga, much fear has arisen. Those who are bound by one heart cannot find peace.
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.
कबीर पढ़ियो दूरि करि, पुस्तक देइ बहाइ। बावन आषिर सोधि करि, ररै मर्मे चित्त लाइ।।१८०।।
Kabir read from afar, giving the book away. One who has studied the fifty-two verses finds true essence in the heart.
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?
मैं मन्ता मन मारि रे, घट ही माहैं घेरि। जबहीं चालै पीठि दे, अंकुस दै-दै फेरि।।२०६।।
I discipline my mind and confine it within my own self. Whenever it goes astray, I control it with the stick of wisdom.
बिन रखवाले बाहिरा, चिड़िया खाया खेत। आधा-परधा ऊबरै, चेति सकै तो चैति।।२१०।।
Without a guard, the birds ate up the field. Some might be saved if one acts in time.
नान्हा कातौ चित्त दे, महँगे मोल बिलाइ। गाहक राजा राम है, और न नेडा आइ।।२१२।।
Even a small thread, if given attention, can fetch a high price. The buyer is King Ram, and no one else can come close.
कबीर माला मन की, और संसारी भेष। माला पहरयां हरि मिलै, तौ अरहट कै गलि देखि।।२१६।।
Kabir says, the true rosary is that of the mind, not just wearing worldly attire. If wearing a rosary brings Hari, then watch the oil press go round and round.
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.
कैसो कहा बिगाड़िया, जो मुंडै सौ बार। मन को काहे न मूंडिये, जामे विषम-विकार।।२१८।।
What harm is there in shaving the head a hundred times? Why not shave the mind that is full of severe defects?
पावक रूपी राम है, घटि-घटि रह्या समाइ। चित चकमक लागै नहीं, ताथै घूवाँ है-है जाइ।।२२६।।
Ram is like fire, present in every heart. But if the mind is not struck like flint, there will only be smoke.
काबा फिर कासी भया, राम भया रे रहीम। मोट चून मैदा भया, बैठि कबीरा जीम।।२२९।।
Kaba has become Kashi, and Ram has become Rahim. The coarse flour has turned fine, and Kabir sits to eat.
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 संसा कोउ नहीं, हरि सूं लाग्गा हेत। काम-क्रोध सूं झूझणा, चौडै मांड्या खेत।।२३२।।
Kabir says, there’s no doubt when one is in love with Hari. Fight against lust and anger, like a warrior in battle.
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.
कबीर घोड़ा प्रेम का, चेतनि चाढ़ि असवार। ग्यान खड़ग गहि काल सिरि, भली मचाई मार।।२३४।।
Kabir says, the horse of love is saddled with awareness. Holding the sword of knowledge, time strikes well.
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.
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.
कोई एक राखै सावधां, चेतनि पहरै जागि। बस्तर बासन सूँ खिसै, चोर न सकई लागि।।२४४।।
One who stays vigilant and aware, even if the clothes are worn out, the thief cannot get to them.
हीरा परा बजार में, रहा छार लपिटाइ। ब तक मूरख चलि गये, पारखि लिया उठाइ।।२४९।।
The diamond remained covered in dust in the market. Only the discerning picked it up and recognized its value.
जो गुरु बसै बनारसी, सीष समुन्दर तीर। एक पलक बिसरे नहीं, जो गुण होय शरीर।।२५२।।
If the Guru resides in Varanasi, the disciple's head is like the shore of the ocean. He does not forget even for a moment the qualities of the Guru.
लच्छ कोष जो गुरु बसै, दीजै सुरति पठाय। शब्द तुरी बसवार है, छिन आवै छिन जाय।।२५४।।
If the Guru resides in the treasury, offer your focus. The words of the Guru are fleeting, coming and going in moments.
तबही गुरु प्रिय बैन कहि, शीष बढ़ी चित प्रीत। ते रहियें गुरु सनमुखाँ, कबहूँ न दीजै पीठ।।२६०।।
Then say that the Guru is beloved; the mind and heart are uplifted. Always remain in the presence of the Guru; never turn your back on them.
सत्गुरु तो सतभाव है, जो अस भेद बताय। धन्य शीष धन भाग तिहि, जो ऐसी सुधि पाय।।२६७।।
The true Guru embodies the essence of truth, revealing the essence of the self. Blessed is the head and fortunate is the person who gains such awareness.
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?
सोचे गुरु के पक्ष में, मन को दे ठहराय। चंचल से निश्चल भया, नहिं आवै नहीं जाय।।२८४।।
When one meditates on the Guru's teachings and steadies the mind, the restless becomes still, neither coming nor going.
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 का मुख बिम्ब है, निकसत बचन भुवंग। ताकि औषण मौन है, विष नहिं व्यापै अंग।।३००।।
The face of an ungodly person is like a fruit, but their words are like a serpent’s venom. The best ornament for them is silence, so the poison does not spread.
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.
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?
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 रहे सन्तोष में, धरम आप दृढ़ धार। आश एक गुरुदेव की, और चित्त विचार।।३३९।।
Always remain in contentment, with steadfast adherence to righteousness. Hope lies in the guru, and the mind should be focused on contemplation.
हेत बिना आवै नहीं, हेत तहाँ चलि जाय। कबीर जल और सन्तजन, नवैं तहाँ ठहराय।।३५९।।
Without purpose, nothing comes; with purpose, everything happens. Kabir says that just as water and saints do not stay in one place, they move on.
कबिरा संगति साधु की, जो करि जाने कोय। सकल बिरछ चन्दन भये, बांस न चन्दन होय।।३७९।।
In the company of saints, anyone who understands it becomes like sandalwood trees, but bamboo does not become sandalwood.
मन दिया कहुँ और ही, तन साधुन के संग। कहैं कबीर कोरी गजी, कैसे लागै रंग।।३८०।।
The mind is elsewhere, while the body is with the saints. Kabir says, it is like a barren field; how can it bear fruit?
ब्राह्मण केरी बेटिया, मांस शराब न खाय। संगति भई कलाल की, मद बिना रहा न जाए।।३८९।।
The daughters of Brahmins may not consume meat or alcohol, but if they associate with drinkers, they cannot stay away from intoxication.
सज्जन सों सज्जन मिले, होवे दो दो बात। गहदा सो गहदा मिले, खावे दो दो लात।।३९५।।
When good people meet, there are two good conversations. But when fools meet, they exchange two blows.
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.
अनराते सुख सोवना, राते नींद न आय। यों जल छूटी माछरी, तलफत रैन बिहाय।।४०५।।
One who sleeps in comfort during the day does not find sleep at night. Just as a fish out of water suffers, the restless person suffers throughout the night.
ज्ञान सपूरण न भिदा, हिरदा नाहिं जुड़ाय। देखा देखी भक्ति का, रंग नहीं ठहराय।।४१६।।
Knowledge is not complete without penetrating the heart. Imitative devotion does not last; it fades away.
आज कहै मैं कल भजूँ, काल फिर काल। आज काल के करत ही, औसर जासी चाल।।४२३।।
Today, you say you'll pray tomorrow, and tomorrow you'll delay again. While waiting for the right moment, the opportunity will slip away.
डर करनी डर परम गुरु, डर पारस डर सार। डरत रहै सो ऊबरे, गाफिल खाई मार।।४३२।।
Fear is necessary for the supreme guru, fear of the philosopher’s stone and essence. Those who live in fear will overcome it; the careless will face punishment.
कबीर काया पाहुनी, हंस बटाऊ माहिं। ना जानूं कब जायगा, मोहि भरोसा नाहिं।।४३६।।
Kabir’s body is a guest, a swan residing within. I do not know when it will depart, I have no trust in it.
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.
बहता पानी निर्मला, बंधे सो गंदा होए। साधु जन रमता भला, दाग न लागै कोय।।४५७।।
Flowing water is pure, but water that is contained becomes dirty. The saint who wanders is virtuous, no stain attaches to him.
भीतर तो भेदा नहीं, बाहिर कथै अनेक। जो पाई भीतर लखि परै,भीतर बाहर एक।।४६०।।
Inside, there is no difference, but outside there are many. What is found inside is the same as outside.
जल में बसे कुमुदनी, चंदा बसे अकास। जैसी जिसकी भावना, सो ताही के पास।।४६१।।
The lotus dwells in the water, the moon in the sky. Each stays where it belongs according to its nature.
गुरु मूरति गति चन्द्रमा, सेवक नैन चकोर। आठ पहर निरखत रहे, गुरु मूरति की ओर।।४८१।।
The Guru is like the moon, and the disciple’s eyes are like the chakor bird. The disciple remains gazing at the Guru’s form throughout the day and night.
जल परमानै माछली, कुल परमानै सुद्धि। जाको जैसा गुरु मिला, ताको तैसी बुद्धि।।४८५।।
Just as fish live in water and are sustained by it, purity is upheld by the essence of the family lineage. The intelligence of a person reflects the nature of the Guru they have found.
चारि खानि में भरमता, कबहु न लगता पार। सो फेरा सब मिटि गया, सतगुरु के उपकार।।४९८।।
One wanders through the four realms but never finds peace. All this wandering is eliminated through the grace of the True Guru.
बिन सद्गुरु बाचै नहीं, फिर बूड़े भव मांहि। भौसागर की त्रास से, सतगुरु पकड़े बाहि।।४९९।।
Without the True Guru, one cannot escape the cycle of birth and death. The True Guru holds your hand to save you from the fear of the worldly ocean.
जा गुरु ते भ्रम न मिटे, भ्रांति न जिनकी जाय। सो गुरु झूठा जानिये, त्यागत देर न लाय।।५२६।।
If the guru does not remove doubts and confusions, Consider that guru false, and do not delay in renouncing them.
सांचे गुरु के पक्ष में, मन को दे ठहराय। चंचल से निश्चल भया, नहिं आवै नहिं जाय।।५२७।।
In the presence of a true guru, calm the restless mind. When made still, it neither comes nor goes.
जिन ढूंढा तिन पाइयां, गहिरै पानी पैठ। मैं बंपरा बडने डरा, रहा किनारे बैठ।।५३४।।
Those who sought found it, diving deep into the water. I feared the depth of the water, remained sitting on the shore.
कबीर हृदय कठोर के, शब्द न लागै सार। सुधि बुधि के हिरदे विधे, उपजे ज्ञान विचार।।५४४।।
Kabir says, the wise words do not penetrate a hard heart. But in a thoughtful heart, wisdom and reflection grow.
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.
एक दिना नहिं करि सके, दूजे दिन कर लेह। कबीर साधु दरश ते, पावै उत्तम देह।।५६५।।
If you cannot do it today, then do it the next day. Kabir says, through the sight of a saint, you will attain a superior body.
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.
इन्द्रिय मन निग्रह करन, हिरदै कोमल होय। सदा शुद्ध आचार में, रहे विचार में सोय।।६०१।।
To control the senses and mind, and to keep the heart gentle. Always remain in pure conduct and thoughts.
कमल पत्र हैं साधु जन, बसै जगत के माहिं। बालक केरि धाय ज्यों, अपना जानत नाहिं।।६०४।।
Saints are like lotus petals in the world, unaware of their own greatness, like a child who does not know its own value.
सावधान और शीलता, सदा प्रफुल्लित गात। निर्विकार गंभीर मत, धीरज दया बरसात।।६०९।।
Be alert and maintain modesty, always keep a cheerful appearance. Remain detached and serious in your thinking, and let patience and compassion shower upon you.
षड़ विकार यह देह के, तिनको चित्त न लाय। शोक मोह प्यासीह छुधा, जरा मृत्यु नशि जाय।।६१९।।
The six vices of the body should not be in one's mind. Grief, illusion, thirst, hunger, old age, and death are transient.
सो दिन गया अकाज में, संगत भई न संत। प्रेम बिना पशु जीवना, भाव बिना भटकंत।।६३०।।
The day went in vain without meaningful company. Without love, life is like that of an animal, and without feeling, one wanders aimlessly.
साधु बिहंगम सुरसरी, चले बिहंगम चाल। जो जो गलियां नीकसे, सो सो करे निहाल।।६३१।।
A saint is like a bird moving freely in a river. Wherever he goes, he makes the place flourish.
तन को जोगी सब करै, मन को करैं न कोय। सहजै सब सिधि पाइये, जो मन जोगी होय।।६३८।।
Everyone can practice physical asceticism, but no one practices mental discipline. The true achievement is attained effortlessly by those who discipline the mind.
माला तिलक तो भेष है, राम भक्ति कछु और। कहैं कबीर जिन पहिरिया, पांचों राखै ठौर।।६४२।।
Garlands and tilaks are mere attire, while devotion to Ram is something else entirely. Kabir says, those who wear it, keep all five places sacred.
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 कुसंग न कीजिए, पाथर जल न तिराय। बदली सीप भुजंग मुख, एक बूंद तिर भाय।।६५१।।
Do not engage in bad company; a stone does not become wet by water. A drop of water falling into a shell's mouth cannot save it from the snake's bite.
चर्चा करु तब चौहटे, ज्ञान करो तब दोय। ध्यान धरो तब एकिला, और न दूजा कोय।।६५९।।
Discuss in the marketplace, gain knowledge in pairs. Meditate alone; do not involve anyone else.
कबीर संगत साधु की, ज्यों गन्धी की बास। जो कुछ गन्धी दे नहीं, तो भी वास सुवास।।६६७।।
The company of saints is like the fragrance of perfume, even if the perfume is not applied, the fragrance spreads.
अनुराते सुखा सोवना, राते नींद न आय। ज्यों जल छुटी माछरी, तड़फत रैन बिहाय।।६७२।।
In deep love, one finds peace in sleep; without love, sleep doesn't come, like a fish out of water, one spends the night in restlessness.
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.
गुरुमुख गुरु चितवन रहे, जैसे मणिहिं भुजंग। कहैं कबीर बिसरें नहीं, यह गुरुमुख को अंग।।६७४।।
A disciple should always keep their focus on the Guru, just as a snake is always focused on the gem. Kabir says, this is a true disciple's duty.
कहैं कबीर गुरु प्रेम बस, क्या नियरै क्या दूर।। जाका चित्त जासों बसै, सो तेहि सदा हजूर।।६७६।।
Kabir says, for a disciple in deep love with their Guru, distance doesn't matter; the one who resides in the heart is always present.
यह सब लच्छन चित्त धरे, अपलच्छन सब त्याग। सावधन सम ध्यान है, गुरु चरनन में लाग।।६८३।।
Hold onto these qualities in your mind and discard all that is undesirable. True attention is focused on the Guru's feet.
भाव बिना नहीं भक्ति जग, भक्ति बिना नहीं भाव। भक्ति भाव इक रूप है, दोऊ एक सुभाव।।७०४।।
Without emotion, there is no devotion; without devotion, there is no emotion. Devotion and emotion are one and the same, both are of the same nature.
भक्ति की यह रीति है, बंधे करे जो भाव। परमारथ के कारने, यह तन रहो कि जाव।।७१०।।
The nature of devotion is to bind with feelings. For the sake of higher purpose, whether this body remains or not, does not matter.
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.
भक्ति निसैनी मुक्ति की, संत चढ़े सब धाय। जिन जिन मन आलस दिया, जनम जनम पछिताय।।७१९।।
Devotion is the key to liberation; saints all follow this path. Those who remain lazy in their minds will regret for lifetimes.
अपने पहरै जागिये, ना परि रहिये सोय। ना जानौ छिन एक में, किसका पहिरा होय।।७३१।।
Wake up in your own time; do not remain asleep. You do not know for a single moment whose watch you are under.
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.
वाद विवादां मत करो, करु नित एक विचार। नाम सुमिर चित लायके, सब करनी में सार।।७३५।।
Do not indulge in arguments and disputes; always maintain a single thought. Focus your mind on the Name, as it is the essence of all actions.
जो कोय सुमिरन अंग को, निशिवासर करै पाठ। कहैं कबीर सो संत जन, सन्धै औघट घाट।।७३६।।
Whoever constantly remembers the limbs of the body and practices daily, Kabir says that such a person is a true saint, transcending all doubts and dilemmas.
सांस सफल सो जानिये, जो सुमिरन में जाय। और सांस यौं ही गये, करि बहुत उपाय।।७३७।।
Consider the breath successful if it leads to remembrance. Otherwise, despite all efforts, if the breath goes on as usual, it is not successful.
कहा भरोसा देह का, बिनसि जाय छिन मांहि। सांस सांस सुमिरन करो, और जतन कछु नांंहि।।७४०।।
Where is the trust in the body, which perishes in an instant? Instead, remember each breath and do not rely on worldly efforts.
जाकी पूंजी सांस है, छिन आवै छिन जाय। ताको ऐसा चाहिए, रहे नाम लौ लाय।।७४१।।
One whose capital is the breath, which comes and goes in an instant, should aim to keep the flame of the name burning.
माला फेरत जग भया, मिटा न मन का फेर। कर का मनका डारि दे, मनका मन का फेर।।७४५।।
Turning the beads does not remove the inner turmoil. Throw away the beads of the hand and focus on the turmoil of the mind.
जो कोय सुमिरन अंग को, पाठ करै मन लाय। भक्ति ज्ञान मन ऊपजै, कहैं कबीर समुझाय।।७४६।।
One who remembers the limbs of the body and recites with a focused mind, will develop devotion and knowledge, says Kabir.
क्रिया करै अंगरि गिनै, मन धावै चहुं ओर। जिहि फेरै सांई मिलै, सो भय काठ कठोर।।७४७।।
One who counts the actions and moves the mind in all directions will find that the path to meeting the divine is harsh and difficult.
तन थिर मन थिर बचन थिर, सुरति निरति थिर होय। कहैं कबीर उस दास को, कल्प न व्यापे कोय।।७४८।।
When the body is steady, the mind is steady, speech is steady, and perception and attention are steady, says Kabir, then no illusion can affect such a devotee.
कबीर क्षुधा है कूकरी, करत भजन में भंग। वाकूं टुकड़ा डारि के, सुमिरन करुं सुरंग।।७५५।।
Hunger is the dog's bark; it disrupts devotion. Throw a piece of bread to it, and focus on meditation.
सुमिरन सो मन लाइये, जैसे पानी मीन। प्राण तजे पल बीछुरे, सत्य कबीर कहि दीन।।७६१।।
Let the mind be engaged in remembrance as a fish is in water. Even if life is separated for a moment, Kabir says, the truth remains.
सुमिरन सों मन जब लगै, ज्ञानाकुस दे सीस। कहैं कबीर डोलै नहीं, निश्चै बिस्वा बीस।।७६२।।
When the mind is engaged in remembrance, it wears the crown of wisdom. Kabir says, it does not waver; it certainly remains steadfast.
ज्ञान दीप परकाश करि, भीतर भवन जराय। तहां सुमिर गुरु नाम को, सहज समाधि लगाय।।७६७।।
The lamp of knowledge illuminates and burns the inner abode. There, remember the Guru's name and attain natural meditation.
सुमिरन सुरति लगाय के, मुख ते कछू न बोल। बाहर के पट देय के, अन्तर के पट खोल।।७७१।।
While engaging in remembrance, speak nothing from the mouth. Close the external doors and open the internal ones.
सुमिरन सों मन लाइये, जैसे दीप पतंग। प्राण तजे छिन एक में, जरत न मोरै अंग।।७७३।।
Let the mind be focused in remembrance like a moth to the flame. Even if the life is sacrificed for a moment, it does not burn the body.
सुरति फंसी संसार में, ताते परिगो दूर। सुरति बांधि स्थिर करो, आठों पहर हजूर।।७७४।।
The attention is trapped in the world, and thus, the distance from the divine grows. Fix and stabilize the attention, be present in remembrance at all times.
माला तो कर में फिरै, जीभ फिरै मुख मांहि। मनुवा तो चहुं दिशि फिरै, यह तो सुमिरन नांहि।।७७६।।
The rosary moves in the hand, the tongue moves in the mouth. The mind wanders in all directions, this is not true remembrance.
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.
कोई न से जम बांचिया, राम बिना धरि खाय। जो जन बिरही राम के, ताको देखि डराय।।७७८।।
No one has escaped from Yama (Death) without holding on to Ram. Those who long for Ram, even Yama fears them.
सुमिरण की सुधि यौं करो, जैसे कामी काम। एक पलक बिसरै नहीं, निश दिन आठौ जाम।।७८०।।
Rememberance should be done like a lover for his beloved. Do not forget even for a moment, throughout the day and night.
सुमिरण की सुधि यौं करो, ज्यौं गागर पनिहारि। हालै डोलै सुरति में, कहैं कबीर विचारि।।७८१।।
Rememberance should be done like a water-carrier with a pitcher. The mind should constantly remain in that remembrance, says Kabir.
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?
सुमिरन तू घट में करै, घट ही में करतार। घट ही भीतर पाइये, सुरति शब्द भण्डार।।७९३।।
Rememberance should be done within the vessel (body), for the Creator is in the vessel itself. Inside this vessel, you will find the treasure of consciousness and the word.
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.
प्रेम छिपाया ना छिपै, जा घट परघट होय। जो पै मुख बोलै नहीं, नैन देत हैं रोय।।८०१।।
Love cannot be hidden; it becomes apparent wherever the body is. If the mouth does not speak, the eyes still reveal it through tears.
प्रेम बिना धीरज नहीं, बिरह बिना वैराग। सतगुरु बिन जावै नहीं, मन मनसा का दाग।।८०२।।
Without love, there is no patience; without separation, there is no renunciation. Without the True Guru, one cannot overcome the stains of the mind and its desires.
यह तत वह तत एक है, एक प्रान दुई गात। अपने जिय से जानिये, मेरे जिय की बात।।८०६।।
This essence and that essence are one; one breath with two forms. Understand from your own heart, what is spoken from my heart.
आया प्रेम कहां गया, देखा था सब कोय। छिन रावै छिन में हंसै, सो तो प्रम न होय।।८०८।।
Where has love gone, which was seen everywhere? If it fades in a moment and laughs in another, that is not true love.
आठ पहर चौसठ घड़ी, लागि रहे अनुराग। हिरदै पलक न बीसरे, तब सांचा बैराग।।८०९।।
The devotion persists through all eight parts of the day and sixty-four moments. When the heart does not forget even for a moment, then true renunciation is achieved.
जब लग मरने से डरैं, तब लगि प्रेमी नांहि। बड़ी दूर है प्रेम घर, समझ लेहु मन मांहि।।८२०।।
As long as there is fear of death, true love is not present. The home of love is very far; understand this in your mind.
जो जागत सो सपन में, ज्यौं घट भीतर सांस। जो जन जाको भावता, सो जन ताके पास।।८२३।।
The one who is awake is in a dream, just as the breath is within the body. The person who truly desires it is always close to it.
दुनिया सेती दोसती, होय भजन में भंग। एका एकी राम सों, कै साधुन के संग।।८४०।।
Friendship with the world causes disruption in devotion. True unity is with Ram alone, and with the company of the saints.
कबीर जो दिन आज है, सो दिन नांहि काल। चेति सके तो चेति ले, मीच परी है ख्याल।।८४२।।
Kabir says, the day that is today is not the same as tomorrow. If you can, realize this now, as the moment is slipping away.
एक बुन्द के कारनै, रोता सब संसार। अनेक बुन्द खाली गये, तिनका नहीं विचार।।८४९।।
Because of a single drop, the whole world weeps. Many drops have gone by without a thought.
मन मूआ माया मुई, संशय मुआ शरीर। अविनाशी जो ना मरे, तो क्यों मरे कबीर।।८५१।।
The mind is dead, illusion is dead, and doubt has killed the body. The imperishable one does not die; then why does Kabir die?
कबीर नाव तो झांझरि, भरी बिराने भार। खेवट सों परिच नहीं, क्यौंकर उतरै पार।।८५९।।
Kabir, the boat is leaky, and it's overloaded. Without knowing the boatman, how will you cross over?
आंखि न देखे बावरा, शब्द सुनै नहिं कान। सिर के केस उज्जल भये, अबहूं निपट अजान।।८७०।।
The foolish person neither sees with his eyes nor hears with his ears. Even though his hair has turned white, he remains utterly ignorant.
कबीर वा दिन याद कर, पग ऊपर तल सीस। मृत मंडल में आयके, बिसरि गया जगदीस।।८७४।।
Kabir, remember that day when your head will be beneath your feet. When you enter the circle of death, you will have forgotten the Lord.
कबीर रसरी पांव में, कह सौवे सुख चैन। मांस नगारा कूंच का, बाजत है दिन रैन।।८७७।।
Kabir says, you feel secure with the rope around your feet, But the drum of death is beating day and night.
या मन गहि जो थिर रहै, गहरी धूनि गाड़ि। चलती बिरियां उठि चला, हस्ती घोड़ा छाड़ि।।८७९।।
If you can control the mind and stabilize it, it becomes deeply rooted. Otherwise, it will wander off, leaving behind even the strongest of things like elephants and horses.
जंगल ढेरी राख की, उपरि उपरि हरियाय। ते भी होती मानवी, करते रंग रलियाय।।८८५।।
A heap of ashes in the forest, green on top, Even this, when seen by humans, leads to merrymaking and pleasures.
कबीर नौबत आपनी, दिन दस लेहु बजाय। यह पुर पट्टन यह गली, बहुरि न देखहु आय।।८९६।।
Take your time to play your own drum for ten days. This city, this street, will never be seen again.
घर रखवाला बाहिरा, चिड़ियां खाइ खेत। आधा परा ऊबरे, चेति सके तो चेत।।९०१।।
The caretaker is outside, while birds eat the crops in the field. Half the crops are ruined; if you can, awaken and be alert.
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.
कबीर सुपने रैन के, उधरी आये नैन। जीव परा बहु लूट में, ना कछु लेन न देन।।९०९।।
In the dream of the night, the eyes are not engaged. The soul is caught in numerous plundering; there is neither giving nor taking.
रात गंवाई सोय कर, दिवस गंवायो खाय। हीरा जनम अमोल था, कोड़ी बदले जाय।।९२०।।
Wasted the night in sleep, wasted the day in eating. The precious diamond of life is exchanged for a mere penny.
कै खाना कै सोवना, और न कोई चीत। सतगुरु शब्द बिसारिया, आदि अन्त का मीत।।९२९।।
Eating and sleeping are of no importance, there is no other concern. Forgetting the words of the true guru, is like losing the eternal friend.
आज कहै मैं काल भजुं, काल कहै फिर काल। आज काल के करत ही, औसर जासी चाल।।९३०।।
Today I say, worship Time; Time says to worship it later. Today’s actions of Time, keep delaying the opportunity.
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.
भय बिन भाव न ऊपजै, भय बिनु होय न प्रीति। जब हिरदे से भय गया, मिटी सकल रस रीति।।९३६।।
Without fear, emotions do not arise, without fear there is no love. When fear departs from the heart, all the essence and rituals vanish.
एक दिन ऐसा होयगा, सब सों परै बिछोह। राजा राना राव रंक, सावधान क्यों नहिं होय।।९३८।।
One day, there will be separation from everyone. Why are not the kings, nobles, and common people alert?
जो जल बाढ़े नाव में, घर में बाढ़ै दाम। दोनों हाथ उलीचिये, यही सयानों का काम।।९४०।।
If water floods the boat, and money floods the home, Use both hands to bail out the water; this is the wise course of action.
बालों जैसी किरकिरी, ऊजल जैसी धूप। ऐसी मीठी कछु नहीं, जसी मीठी चूप।।९४६।।
Like the irritation of lice, like the bright sunlight. There is nothing as sweet as silence, like the sweetness of quietude.
नाम भजो मन बसि करो, यही बात है तंत। काहे को पढ़ि पचि मरो, कोटिन ज्ञान गिरंथ।।९५२।।
Chant the name and settle it in your mind; this is the essence of the matter. Why read and die pondering, when countless books of knowledge are there?
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.
जीवत कोय समझै नहिं, मवा न कह संदेस। तन मन से परिचय नहिं, ताको क्या उपदेस।।९५६।।
The living do not understand; death does not give any message. If there is no self-awareness in the body and mind, what advice can be given?
कबीर आप ठगाइये, और न ठगिये कोय। आप ठगे सुख ऊपजै, और ठगे दुख होय।।९५९।।
Kabir says, let yourself be deceived, do not deceive others. Deceiving others brings sorrow, while being deceived brings peace.
जैसा भोजन खइये, तैसा ही मन होय। जैसा पानी पीजिये, तैसी बानी होय।।९७१।।
As is the food you eat, so becomes your mind. As is the water you drink, so becomes your speech.
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.
बार-बार तोसों कहा, सुन रे मनवा नीच। बनजारे का बैल ज्यूं, पैंडा माहीं मीच।।९८१।।
I have told you repeatedly, listen, oh lowly mind. Like the merchant's bull, you tread the same path endlessly.
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.
कागा काको धन हरै, कोयल काको देत। मीठा शब्द सुनाय के, जग अपनो करि लेत।।१००७।।
Who does the crow rob? Whom does the cuckoo give? By speaking sweet words, one wins over the world.
जिभ्या जिन बिस में करी, तिन बस कियो जहान। नहिं तो औगुन ऊपजे, कहि सब संत सुजान।।१०११।।
Those who control their tongue, control the world. Otherwise, vices arise, as all wise saints say.
हरिजन सोई जानिये, जिह्वा कहैं न मार। आठ पहर चितवन रहै, गुरु का ज्ञान विचार।।१०१३।।
Know that person as a devotee of the Lord, who doesn't hurt anyone with their words. They remain immersed in the guru's teachings day and night.
मुख आवै सोई कहै, बोलै नहीं विचार। हते पराई आतमा, जीभ बांधि तलवार।।१०१९।।
One speaks whatever comes to their mouth, without thinking. They hurt others' souls as if their tongue were a sword.
शब्द खांजि मन बस कर, सहज जोग है येह। सत्त शब्द निज सार है, यह तो झूठी देह।।१०२१।।
Make the word dwell in your mind, this is the true yoga. The true word is the essence, while this body is false.
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.
मन को मिरतक देखि के, मति माने विश्वास। साधु तहां लौं भय करे, जौ लौ पिंजर सांस।।१०३०।।
Seeing the mind as dead, do not trust it. The saint remains cautious as long as there is breath in the body.
पांचों इन्द्रिय छठा मन, सम संगत सूचंत। कहैं कबीर जग क्या करे, सातों गांठ निश्चिन्त।।१०३३।।
The five senses and the mind together make six, with the right company, Kabir says, the seven knots become free of worries.
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.
काल काल सब कोइ कहे, काल न चीन्हे कोय। जेती मन की कल्पना, काल कहावै सोय।।१०४८।।
Everyone talks about time (death), but no one truly understands it. Whatever is imagined by the mind is called time.
कबीर टुक टुक चोंघ्ज्ञता, पल पल गई विहाय। जिव जंजाले पड़ि रहा, दिया दमामा आय।।१०५१।।
Kabir observes each moment passing by, as life is entangled in worldly affairs. And suddenly, the call of death arrives.
मूसा डरपे काल सूं, कठिन काल का जोर। स्वर्ग भूमि पाताल में, जहां जाव तहं गोर।।१०५९।।
Moses feared the time, the force of harsh time. In heaven, earth, or hell, where one goes, there is darkness.
कबीर गाफिल क्यौं फिरै, क्या सोता घनघोर। तेरे सिराने जम खड़ा, ज्यूं अंधियारे चोर।।१०६४।।
Why is Kabir heedless? What, is he asleep in deep darkness? Death stands by your pillow like a thief in the dark.
कबीर मन्दिर आपने, नित उठि करता आल। मरघट देखी डरपता, चौड़े दीया डाल।।१०७१।।
Kabir's own temple is always attended, yet he fears the cremation ground and lights a broad lamp.
ऐसे सांच न मानई, तिलकी देखो जोय। जारि बारि कोयला करै, जमता देखा सोय।।१०७५।।
One who does not believe in such truth, see the sesame seed as an example. The coal that burns repeatedly shows the truth.
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.
कबीर पगरा दूर है, आय पहूंची सांझ। जन जन को मत राखतां, वेश्या रहि गई बांझ।।१०७९।।
Kabir’s turban is far away, and the evening has arrived. The advice given to everyone remains unheeded, like a prostitute left barren.
टालै टूलै दिन गयो, ब्याज बढ़न्ता जाय। ना हरि भजा न खत कटा, काल पहुंचा आय।।१०८१।।
Days pass in delay and the interest increases. Neither devotion to Hari nor resolving the accounts, time reaches its end.
संसारी से प्रीतड़ी, सरै न एकौ काम। दुविधा से दोनों गये, माया मिली न राम।।१०९२।।
Attachment to the worldly does not achieve any purpose. Both are lost in doubt, neither attaining Maya nor Rama.
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.
मन चलतां तन भी चलै, ताते मन को घेर। तन मन दोऊ बसि करै, होय राइ सुमेर।।११०४।।
When the mind is restless, the body also becomes restless. When both the mind and body are under control, one can attain the heights of Mount Sumeru.
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.
पहिले यह मन कागा था, करता जीवन घात। अब तो मन हंसा भया, मोती चुनि-चुनि खात।।११०७।।
Earlier this mind was like a crow, causing harm to life. Now the mind has become like a swan, consuming pearls one by one.
कबीर मन परबत भया, अब मैं पाया जान। टांकी लागी प्रेम की, निकसी कंचन खान।।११०८।।
Kabir says that the mind has become like a mountain, and I have realized this. The reservoir of love has yielded a treasure of gold.
काया कजरी बन अहै, मन कुंजर महमन्त। अंकुस ज्ञान रतन है, फेरै साधु सन्त।।११०९।।
The body is like a dark cloud, and the mind is like an elephant. The goad of knowledge is with the saints and sages.
बिना सीस का मिरग है, चहं दिस चरने जाय। बांधि लाओ गुरुज्ञान सूं, राखो तत्व लगाय।।१११०।।
The deer without its antlers roams in all directions. Bind it with the knowledge of the Guru and keep it focused.
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.
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.
चंचल मन निहचल करै, फिरि फिरि नाम लगाय। तन मन दोउ बसि करै, ताका कछु नहिं जाय।।१११५।।
When the restless mind becomes still and repeats the name of the Lord, both body and mind are controlled, and nothing is lost.
मेरा मन मकरन्द था, करता बहुत बिगार। सूधा होय मारग चला, हरि आगे हम लार।।१११६।।
My mind was like honey, causing much disturbance. When it became pure, I found the path, and I seek refuge at the feet of the Lord.
कबीर मनहि गयंद है, आंकुस दे दे राखु। विष की बेली परिहरो, अमृत का फल चाखु।।१११७।।
Kabir says the mind is wild; keep it under control with discipline. Abandon the poisonous creeper and taste the fruit of immortality.
कबीर यह मन लालची, समझै नहीं गंवार। भजन करन को आलसी, खाने को तैयार।।१११८।।
Kabir describes the mind as greedy and ignorant. It is lazy in devotion but always ready for indulgence.
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.
मन मनसा जब जायगी, तब आवैगी और। जबही निहचल होगया, तब पावैगा ठौर।।११२०।।
When the mind is tamed and becomes stable, then peace will come. Only when it becomes steady, will it find its place.
सुर नर मुनि सबको ठगै, मनहिं लिया औतार। जो कोई याते बच, तीन लोक ते न्यार।।११२२।।
The gods, humans, and sages all deceive, taking the mind as their vehicle. Those who escape this deception are beyond the three worlds.
धरती फाटै मेघ मिलै, कपड़ा फाटै डौर। तन फाटै को औषधि, मन फाटै नहिं ठौर।।११२३।।
The earth cracks when rain meets clouds, and cloth tears when pulled. There is medicine for the body’s ailments, but there is no cure for the cracks in the mind.
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?
अपने उरझै उरझिया, दीखै सब संसार। अपने सुरझै सुरझिया, यह गुरु ज्ञान विचार।।११२६।।
The one who is entangled in their own confusion sees the entire world in confusion. The one who is clear within sees the true essence through the wisdom of the guru.
मन के बहुतक रंग हैं, छिन छिन बदले सोय। एक रंग में जो रहे, ऐसा बिरला कोय।।११२७।।
The mind has many colors, changing every moment. Rare is the one who remains in a single color.
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 मोटा मन पातरा, मन पानी मन लाय। मन के जैसी ऊपजै, तैसी ही ह्वै जाय।।११२९।।
The mind is thick, the mind is a vessel, the mind is water and the mind is a vessel. Whatever the mind produces, that is how it becomes.
कबीर मन मरकट भया, नेक न कहुं ठहराय। राम नाम बांधै बिना, जित भावै तित जाय।।११३०।।
Kabir says the mind is like a monkey, and it does not settle down in goodness. Without holding onto the name of Ram, it goes wherever it desires.
कहत सुनत सब दिन गये, उरझि न सुरझा मन्न। कहैं कबीर चेता नहीं, अजहूं पहला दिन्न।।११३१।।
All days pass in speaking and listening, yet the mind remains entangled and not clear. Kabir says one remains unaware as if it were the first day.
मन की घाली हूं गई, मन की घाली जाउं। संग जो परी कसंग के, हाटै हाट बिकाउं।।११३२।।
The mind is like a worn-out vessel, and it will remain so. Those who are attached to false company, are sold off in the market.
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.
मन गोरख मन गोविंद, मन ही औघड़ सोय। जो मन राखै जतन करि, आपै करता होय।।११३४।।
The mind is like Gorakh, the mind is like Govind; it is indeed a wandering ascetic. The one who diligently maintains the mind, becomes the doer himself.
जेती लहर समुद्र की, तेती मन की दौर। सहजै हीरा नीपजे, जो मन आवै ठौर।।११३६।।
As many waves there are in the ocean, so are the movements of the mind. The true jewel is found naturally, where the mind finds a place.
मन पंखी बिन पंख का, जहां तहा उड़ि जाय। मन भावे ताको मिले, घट में आन समाय।।११३७।।
The mind is like a bird without wings, flying wherever it wishes. The mind finds what it desires, and remains in the same place.
कबीर बैरी सबल है, एक जीव रिपु पांच। अपने-अपने स्वाद को, बहुत नचावै नाच।।११३८।।
Kabir says that the enemy is strong, and there are five enemies in one being. Each one dances to its own tune.
बात बनाई जग ठग्यो, मन परमोधा नांहि। कहैं कबीर मन लै गया, लख चौरासां मांहि।।११४०।।
The world is deceived by crafted stories, but the mind remains unsatisfied. Kabir says that the mind has gone astray, amidst countless deceptions.
कबीर यह गत अटपटी, चटपट लखी न जाय। जो मन की खटपट मिटै, अधर भये ठहराय।।११४१।।
Kabir says that this state is peculiar, and cannot be quickly understood. When the disturbance of the mind ceases, the meaning becomes clear.
मनुवा तू क्यों बावरा, तेरी सुध क्यों खोय। मौत आय सिर पर खड़ी, ढलते बेर न होय।।११४२।।
O mind, why are you so foolish? Why have you lost your awareness? Death stands above your head, and you are not prepared.
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.
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 फाटै बायक बुरै, मिटै सगाई साक। जैसे दूध तिवास को, उलटि हुआ जो आक।।११४६।।
The mind's flaws are removed through good company, and unity is established. Just as milk turns into curd, so does unity come from the mind.
मन पांचौं के बस पड़ा, मन के बस नहिं पांच। जित देखूं तित दौं लगी, जित भाग् तित आंच।।११४७।।
The mind is under the control of the five senses, but the five senses are not under the control of the mind. Wherever I look, there are distractions; wherever I go, there is burning.
मन के मारे बन गये, बन तजि बस्ती मांहि। कहैं कबीर क्या कीजिये, यह मन ठहरै नाहिं।।११४८।।
The mind, having been defeated, becomes like a forest; it leaves the forest and settles in the village. Kabir says, what to do? This mind does not stay still.
निहचिन्त होय के गुरु भजै, मन में राखै सांच। इन पांचौं को बसि करै, ताहि न आवै आंच।।११४९।।
When one worships the guru with a carefree heart and keeps the truth in the mind, controlling the five senses becomes possible, and there is no burning.
मन मुरीद संसार है, गुरु मुरीद कोय साध। जो माने गुरु बचन को, ताका मता अगाध।।११५०।।
The mind is a disciple of the world, and the guru is a true disciple. He who follows the words of the guru, his intellect is profound.
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.
चिन्ता चित्त बिसारिये, फिर बूझिये नहिं आन। इन्द्री पसारा मेटिये, सजह मिलै भगवान।।११५२।।
Forget the worries of the mind, and then do not seek elsewhere. Remove the distractions of the senses, and you will naturally find God.
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 पंछी तब लगि उडै, विषय वासना मांहि। ज्ञान बाज को झपट में, जब लगि आवै नांहि।।११५६।।
The mind, like a bird, keeps flying in the desires of worldly pleasures. Knowledge is like a hawk that snatches the mind when it does not arrive.
मन नहिं मारा करि सका, न मन पांच प्रहारि। सील सांच सरधा नहीं, अजह् इन्द्रि उघारि।।११५७।।
The mind cannot be killed by force, nor can it be conquered by five attacks. Without virtue, truth, and faith, the senses remain uncovered.
दौड़त दौड़त दाडिया, जेती मन की दौर। दौड़ि थके मन थिर भया, वस्तु ठौर की ठौर।।११५८।।
The more the mind runs, the more it gets exhausted. When it stops running, it finds its true resting place.
मन अपना समुझाय ले, आया गाफिल होय। बिन समुझे उठि जायेगा, फोकट फेरा तोय।।११५९।।
Understand your own mind, or it will rise without understanding, and you will wander aimlessly.
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.
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.
मन मते माया तजी, यूं करि निकस बहार। लागि रहि जानी नहीं, भटकी भयो खुवार।।११६३।।
Renounce illusion from the mind and exit from it. Without realizing it, one remains lost and bewildered.
माया सम नहिं मोहिनी, मन समान नहिं चोर। हरिजन सम नहिं पारखी, कोई न दीसे ओर।।११६९।।
There is no enchantress like illusion, and no thief like the mind. There is no connoisseur like a saint, and none can be seen elsewhere.
माया मन की मोहिनी, सुर नर रहे लुभाय। इन माया सब खाइया, माया कोय न खाय।।११८८।।
Illusion is the enchantress of the mind, captivating gods and humans alike. Everyone is deceived by illusion, but illusion itself is not deceived.
माया माया सब कहैं, माया लखै न कोय। जो मन से ना ऊतरे, माया कहिए सोय।।११९३।।
Everyone talks about illusion, but no one truly understands it. That which does not leave the mind is called illusion.
कबीर माया मोहिनी, मांगी मिलै न हाथ। मना उतारी जूठ करु, लागी डोलै साथ।।११९४।।
Kabir says, illusion is enchanting but cannot be grasped by hand. If you rid the mind of false desires, illusion will no longer follow you.
माया मुई न मन मुआ, मरि मरि गया शरीर। आशा तृष्णा ना मुई, यौं कथि कहैं कबीर।।१२०७।।
Illusion does not die, nor does the mind die. The body may perish repeatedly, but desires and cravings do not die. Thus says Kabir.
मन ते माया ऊपजै, माया तिरगुण रूप। पांच तत्व के मेल में, बांधे सकल सरूप।।१२०८।।
Illusion arises from the mind and takes on the form of the three gunas (qualities). It binds all forms through the combination of the five elements.
मोह सलिल की धार में, बहि गये गहिर गंभीर। सूक्ष्म मछली सुरति है, चढ़ती उल्टी नीर।।१२१८।।
In the current of the river of illusion, many have been carried away deeply. The subtle fish of awareness swims against the current of the water.
बुन्द खिरी नर नारि की, जैसी आतम घात। अज्ञानी मानै नहीं, येहि बात उत्पात।।१२२४।।
Just as a drop of oil affects the body, so does the harm of ignorance affect the soul. The ignorant do not recognize this fact.
कामी अमी न भावई, विष को लेवै सोध। कुबुधि न भाजै जीव की, भावै ज्यों परमोध।।१२२८।।
The desirous person does not enjoy nectar; he investigates poison. Ignorant thoughts do not affect the soul, as if they are like the highest nectar.
तन मन लज्जा ना रहे, काम बान उर साल। एक काम सब वश किए, सुर नर मुनि बेहाल।।१२३२।।
When there is no shame in body and mind, desire binds the heart. Desire controls everyone, even gods, men, and sages are distressed by it.
कामी तो निरभय भया, करै न कहाूं संक। इन्द्री केरे बसि पड़ा, भूगते नरक निसंक।।१२३३।।
The desirous person becomes fearless and does not have any doubts. Controlled by the senses, he experiences hell without fear.
दीपक सुन्दर देखि करि, जरि जरि मरे पतंग। बढ़ी लहर जो विषय की, जरत न मोरै अंग।।१२३४।।
Seeing the beautiful lamp, the moth burns and dies. The wave of desire grows, and it burns without harming my body.
जब मन लागा लोभ सो, गया विषय में भोय। कहैं कबीर विचार के, केहि प्रकार धन होय।।१२४५।।
When the mind is attached to greed, it gets lost in worldly desires. Kabir says, by contemplating, how can one attain true wealth?
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?
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.
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.
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.
आपन को न सरारिये, पर निन्दिये न कोय। चढ़ना लम्बा धौहरा, ना जाने क्या होय।।१२९०।।
Do not criticize yourself or others. The climb is long and steep; who knows what will happen.
काहू को नहिं निन्दिये, चाहे जैसा होय। फिर फिर ताको बन्दिये, साधु लच्छ है सोय।।१२९६।।
Do not criticize anyone, no matter how they are. Instead, repeatedly bind yourself, for the true sage is one who is gentle.
पढ़ि पढ़ि के समुझावई, मन नहिं धारै धीर। रोटी का संसै पड़ा, यौं कह दास कबीर।।१३०७।।
Even after reading and advising, the mind does not hold steady. The worry about food remains; thus says servant Kabir.
श्रोता तो घरहीं नहीं, वक्ता बकै सो बाद। श्रोता वक्ता एक घर, तब कथनी का स्वाद।।१३१८।।
The listener is not even present at home; the speaker speaks only later. When the listener and speaker are in the same house, then only the essence of words is understood.
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.
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.
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.
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.
बाहिर सुख दुख देन को, हुकुम करै मन मांय। जब उठे मन बखत को, बाहिर रूप धरि आय।।१३४५।।
External happiness and sorrow are dictated by the mind. When the mind is ready, it manifests as external experiences.
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.
पूजा सेवा नेम व्रत, गुड़ियन का सा खेल। जब लग पिव परसै नहीं, तब लग संसै मेल।।१३५७।।
Worship, rituals, and fasts are like the play of dolls, until you experience the touch of the Beloved, doubt remains.
लिखा पढ़ी में सब पड़े, यह गुन तजै न कोय। सबै पड़े भ्रम जाल में, डारा यह जिय खोय।।१३६३।।
Everyone is lost in reading and writing, but no one leaves this habit. They are all trapped in a web of illusions, losing their minds.
आगा पीछा दिल करै, सहजै मिलै न आय। सो बासी जमलोक का, बांधा जमपुर जाय।।१३६९।।
The one who keeps worrying about the past and future doesn't find peace. Such a person is destined for the world of the dead.
पढ़ा सुना सीखा सभी, मिटी न संसै भूल। कहैं कबीर कासों कहूं, यह सब दुख का मूल।।१३७४।।
Though I have read, heard, and learned everything, my doubts and delusions haven't vanished. Kabir says, whom should I tell, this is the root of all suffering.
तेरे हिय में राम हैं, ताहि न देखा जाय। ताको तो तब देखिये, दिल की दुविधा जाय।।१३७७।।
Ram resides in your heart, but you cannot see him. You will see him only when the doubts in your heart disappear.
दुविधा जाके मन बसै, दयावन्त जिय नाहिं। कबीर त्यागो ताहि को, भूलि देहि जनि बाहिं।।१३७९।।
The one whose mind is filled with doubts cannot have a compassionate heart. Kabir says, leave such a person, do not embrace him.
मन मक्का दिल द्वारिका, काया काशी जान। दश द्वारे का देहरा, तामें ज्योति पिछान।।१३८६।।
Consider the mind as Mecca, the heart as Dwarka, and the body as Kashi. Recognize the light within the temple of ten doors (the body).
आचारी सब जग मिला, बीचारी नहिं कोय। जाके हिरदै गुरु नहीं, जिया अकारथ सोय।।१३९२।।
The world is full of those who follow rituals, but there is no one who truly contemplates. Those without a guru in their hearts live a wasted life.
दया का लच्छन भक्ति है, भक्ति से होवै ध्यान। ध्यान से मिलता ज्ञान है, यह सिद्धान्त उरान।।१३९६।।
Compassion leads to devotion, devotion leads to meditation. Meditation brings knowledge, this is the ultimate principle.
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.
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.
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?
कबीर सुपिनैं हरि मिल्या, सूतां लिया जगाई। आंखि न मीचौ डरपता, मति सुपिनां ह्वै जाइ।।१४२९।।
Kabir met the Lord in a dream and woke up. Not closing the eyes in fear, the understanding remains even in dreams.
कबीर केसौ की दया, संसा घाल्या खोहि। जे दिन गए भगति बिन, ते दिन साले मोहि।।१४३४।।
Kabir’s kindness is such that doubts are erased. The days spent without devotion are those days of sorrow.
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.
आगि जु लागि समुद्र में, धुंआ प्रगट न होय। सो जाने जो जरि मुआ, जाकी लाई होय।।१४४५।।
When fire is burning in the ocean, smoke does not appear. Only the one who is burned understands the nature of its cause.
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.
एक ते अनंत ह्यौ, अनन्त एक हो जाय। परिचय भया जु एक तें, अनंत एकहिं मांह समाया।।१४६२।।
From one, it became infinite, and the infinite became one. When one realizes this, the infinite merges back into the one.
एक बात की बात है, कोई कहे बनाय। भारी परदा बीच का, तातें लखी न जाय।।१४६३।।
It's a matter of one thing, yet people make stories. There's a heavy curtain in between, so it remains unseen.
एक साधे सब साधिया, सब साधे सब जाय। ज्यों जल सींचे मूल को, फूले फले अघाय।।१४६७।।
By mastering one, all is mastered; by trying to master all, everything is lost. Like watering the root of a plant, it flowers and fruits abundantly.
काल खड़ा सिर ऊपरै, जागि विराने मीत। जाका घर है गेल में, सो कस सोवे निर्चीत।।१४८०।।
Death stands above your head, and yet you sleep peacefully, unaware. How can one sleep soundly when their house is on fire?
ऐसी गति संसार की, ज्यों गाडर के ठाट। एक परे जेहि गाड़ में, सबै गाड़ में जाय।।१४८२।।
The fate of the world is like a herd of sheep. Once one falls into a ditch, the rest follow.
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?
चौगोड़ा के देखते, व्याधा भागो जाय। अचरज एक देखहु हो संतो, मुवा कालहि खाय।।१५०८।।
The hunter runs away at the sight of the four-sided drum. Oh saints, see this wonder, that death eats the dead.
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.
जहां बोल तहं अक्षर आया, जहं अक्षर तहं मनहिं डिढाया। बोल अबोल एक है सोई, जिन एक लखा सो बिरला होई।।१५१६।।
Where there is speech, there is the word; where the word is, the mind is fixed. Speech and silence are the same; only a rare one realizes this truth.
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.
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.
जिह्वा केरे बंद दे, बहु बोलना निवार। पारखी से संग करु, गुरुमुख शब्द विचार।।१५२८।।
Control your tongue, avoid excessive talking. Associate with the wise and reflect on the words of the Guru.
जेहि वन सिंध न संचरे, पक्षी नहिं उड़ि जाय। सो वन कबिरन्हि हींडिया, शून्य समाधि लगाय।।१५३६।।
The forest where the ocean does not flow and birds do not fly, is like a forest of Kabir, immersed in void and meditation.
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.
जो तू सांचा बानिया, सांची हाट लगाव। अन्दर झारू देइ के, कूरा दूरि बहाव।।१५४४।।
If you are a true merchant, set up a true market. Clean the inside with a broom, and let the falsehood go away.
ज्यों दर्पण प्रतिबिम्ब देखिए, आप दुनों महं सोई। या तत्त्व ते वा तत्त्व है, याही में पुनि होई।।१५४७।।
Just as you see your reflection in a mirror, you are the same in both the physical and spiritual realms. Whether this is the essence or the essence itself, it is all within you.
भूला सो भूला, बहुरि के चेतना। विस्मय को छुरी से, संशय को रेतना।।१५५१।।
The one who forgets is forgotten, and again comes to consciousness. With the knife of wonder, the sand of doubt is cut away.
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?
तन संशय मन सुनहा, काल अहेरी नीत। उतपति परले नहिं होता, तब की कही कबीर।।१५५४।।
Body is uncertain, mind is weak, and time is a constant hunter. The creation does not exist beyond, this is what Kabir says.
ताहि न कहिए परखू, पाहन लखे जो कोय। नर नग या दिल जो लखे, रतन पारखू सोय।।१५५७।।
Do not judge by appearances; the stone reveals only what is within. The wise recognize the value of a person, a city, or a heart.
तीनि लोक टीड़ी भया, उड़े जो मन के साथ। हरि जाने बिनु भटके, पर काल के हाथ।।१५५८।।
All three worlds are like a net, and they move with the mind. Only Hari (God) knows without wandering, but time captures everyone.
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.
देश विदेश हम फिरे, ई मन भरा सुकाल। जाके ढूंढ़त मैं फिरौं, ताके परा दुकाल।।१५६७।।
We roam through lands both near and far, yet this mind remains filled with ease. I search for that which brings real distress.
नयन न आगे मन बसे, पलक पलक करे दौर। तीनि लोक मन भूप है, मन पूजा सब ठौर।।१५७४।।
The eyes do not see ahead, but the mind remains restless. The three worlds are within the mind, and worship resides in every place.
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.
नाना रंग तरंग है, मन मकरंद असूझ। कहहिं कबीर पुकारि के, अकलि कला ले बूझ।।१५७८।।
There are various waves of color, and the mind is like nectar that cannot be understood. Kabir says, understand the subtle art with wisdom.
परदे पाणी दाधिया, संतो करह विचार। सरमा सरमी पचि मुवा, काल घसीट निहार।।१५८५।।
Behind the veil, water and curd, reflect on the saints. The cloth of the worldly, having been burnt, does not withstand the wear of time.
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.
पूर्व उगे पश्चिम अथवे, भखे पवन को फूल। ताका राहु काल गरासे, मानुष काहे को भूल।।१५९६।।
East rises, west also, like the flower in the wind. Time consumes all paths, why does man forget?
प्राणी तो जिभ्या डिगो, क्षण क्षण बोले कुबोल। मन घाले भरमत फिरे, कालहिं देत हिंडोल।।१६०१।।
The creature's tongue is restless, speaking nonsense every moment. The mind wanders aimlessly, and time gives it a push.
फहम आगे फहम पीछे, फहम बायें डेरे। फहम पर जो फहम करे, सोइ फहम है मेरे।।१६०३।।
Understanding is in front and behind, understanding is on the left and right. The one who understands understanding, that is my understanding.
बना बनाया मानवा, बिना बुद्धि वेतूल। कहा लाल ले कीजिए, बिना बास का फूल।।१६०५।।
Man is created, but without intelligence, it is fruitless. Where is the red flower without fragrance?
बहुत दिवस तें हींडिया, शून्य समाधि लगाय। करहा पड़ा गाड़ में, दूरि परे पछिताय।।१६०९।।
For many days, one may sit in a state of zero meditation, but in the end, they regret being lost in delusion.
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.
बिन डांडै जग डांडिया, सोरठि परिया डांड। बाटनिहारा लोभिया, गुड़े ते मीठी खांड।।१६१३।।
Without a stick, the world is disciplined. The one who travels the path of greed finds sweetness in the stones.
बिनु रसरी गृह खल बंधा, तासू बंधा अलेख। दीन्ह दर्पण हस्त मधे, चसम बिना का देख।।१६१४।।
Without a rope, the house is bound, it is bound in an unseen manner. The mirror in the hand of the poor, shows what is not visible without a glass.
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.
बूंद जो परा समुद्र में, यह जाने सब कोय। समुद्र समाना बूंद में, बुझे बिरला कोय।।१६१६।।
The drop that is in the ocean is known by everyone. To understand the ocean in the drop, is known only to a few.
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?
बैठा रहे सो बानिया, खड़ा रहे सा ग्वाल। जागत रहे सो पाहरु, तिहि धरि आयो काल।।१६२०।।
The merchant sits, the cowherd stands. The one who remains awake, death comes to them only after a long time.
बोलना है बह भांति का, नैनन नहिं कछु सूझ। कहहिं कबीर पुकारि के, घट बानी बूझ।।१६२१।।
The words are of many kinds, but the eyes do not see anything. Kabir says, understand the words of the self.
भंवर जाल बगु जाल है, बूड़े बहुत अचेत। कहहिं कबीर ते बांचिहैं, जाके हृदय विवेक।।१६२३।।
The whirlpool and the net are traps; many drown unconsciously. Kabir says, those who have wisdom in their hearts will be saved.
मन कहे कहौं जाइये, चित्त कहो कहां जाउं। छव मास के हींडते, आध कोस पर गांउ।।१६२९।।
The mind says go here, the heart says where should I go? After wandering for six months, one still finds oneself in the same place.
तन बोहित मन काग है, लक्ष जोजन उड़ि जाय। कबहुंक भरमे आगम दरिया, कबहूं गगन समाय।।१६३०।।
The body is a boat and the mind is a crow; the goal may fly away. Sometimes the river of delusion is filled, sometimes the sky is reached.
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 भर के बोय घुंघची, भर नहिं होय। कहा हमारे माने नहीं, अन्तहु चला विगोय।।१६३२।।
The mind fills with bellows, yet it does not get full. Our desires are insatiable, they eventually lead to loss.
मन मसलन्द गयन्द है, मनसा भो संचार। सांच मन्त्र माने नहीं, उड़ि उड़ि लागि खान।।१६३३।।
The mind is like a wandering vessel, and the thoughts are like transmissions. The true mantra is not understood, it keeps flying away.
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 को समुझावते, ज्ञान गांठ का जाइ। कोयला होइ न ऊजरो, नव मन साबुन लाइ।।१६४४।।
One who tries to explain to a fool, knowledge gets tied up. Coal does not get cleaned; new soap is needed for the mind.
मन सायर मनसा लहरि, बूड़े बहुत अचेत। कहहिं कबीर ते बांचिहै, जाके हृदय विवेक।।१६५२।।
The mind is like the waves of a river, often drowning in ignorance. Kabir says those who read this will have a heart full of wisdom.
मन माया एक है, माया मनहिं समाय। तीनि लोक संशय परे, काहि कहौं बिलगाय।।१६५३।।
Mind and illusion are the same; illusion resides in the mind. Beyond the three worlds, there is doubt; why should I speak of separation?
मन माया की कोठरी, तन संशय का कोट। विषहर मंत्र न माने, काल सर्प का चोट।।१६५४।।
The mind is a chamber of illusion, and the body is a fortress of doubt. The poison of spells does not affect; it is the bite of the serpent of time.
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.
रंगहि ते रंग उपजे, सब रंग देखी एक। कवन रंग है जीव को, ताकर करहु विवेक।।१६६०।।
Colors arise from colors, all colors are seen as one. What color is there in the soul? Use your wisdom to understand.
शब्द हमारा आदि का, पल-पल करहू याद। अंत फलेगी माहली, ऊपर की सब वाद।।१६७५।।
The word is eternal, remember it every moment. In the end, the essence will be revealed, and all other debates will be inconsequential.
श्रोता तो घर में नहीं, वक्ता बके सो वादि। श्रोता वक्ता एक घर, कथा कहावे आदि।।१६८१।।
The listener is not at home, while the speaker debates. The listener and speaker are within one house, yet the story remains untold.
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.
संसारी समय विचारी, कोई गिरही कोई जोग। अवसर मारे जात है, ते चेतु बिराने लोग।१६८३।।
Contemplating worldly time, some are householders and some are yogis. Opportunities are lost, so be cautious, O ignorant ones.
सज्जन ते दुर्ज्जन भयो, सुनि काहु के बोल। कांसा तांबा होय रहा, हता ठिकों के मोल।।१६८४।।
One becomes virtuous or wicked based on what one hears. Just as brass and copper remain, their value is measured by worth.
सब ते सांचा ही भला, जो दिल सांचा होय। सांच बिना सुख है नहीं, कोटि करे जो कोय।।१६८९।।
The best is that which is true; what is true is in the heart. Without truth, there is no happiness, no matter how many efforts one makes.
सावन केरा सेहरा, बूंद परे असमान। सारी दुनिया वैष्णव भया, गुरु नहिं लागा कान।।१६९७।।
In the monsoon's desert, even a drop is beyond the sky. The entire world has become Vaishnav, but no one listens to the Guru.
साहू चोर चीन्हे नहीं, अन्ध मति के हीन। पारख बिना बिना सहै, करि विचार ही भिन्न।।१६९८।।
The merchant does not recognize the thief, being blind in understanding. Without insight, even the expert suffers; all opinions are different.
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.
हंसा के घट भीतरे, बसे सरोवर खोट। एकौ जीव ठौर नहिं लागा, रहा सो ओटहि ओट।।१७०८।।
Within the vessel of the swan resides the tainted lake. No living being finds a place; all remain hidden behind covers.
हंसा सरवरि तजि चले, देही पारिगौ सून। कहहिं कबीर सुनहु हौ सन्तो, ते दर तेई थून।।१७११।।
The swan leaves the lake and goes to the empty shore. Kabir says, listen, O saints, there are thirty-three doors at that threshold.
कहत सुनत सब दिन गए, उरझि न सुरझया मन। कहि कबीर चेत्या नहीं, अजहूं सु पहला दिन।।१७२५।।
Days pass in hearing and speaking, yet the mind remains confused. Kabir says, if you are not aware, it is still the first day.
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.
बहुत दिनन की जोवती, बाट तुम्हारी राम। जिव तरसै तुझ मिलन कूं, मनि नाहीं विश्राम।।१७४१।।
For many days the journey is long, the path is yours, Ram. The soul yearns to meet you, the heart finds no rest.
यह तन जालौं मसि करौं, लिखौं राम का नाउं। लेखणि करूं करंक की, लिखि राम पठाउं।।१७४७।।
Let this body be burnt like ink, and let me write the name of Ram. Using this pen, I inscribe Ram’s name and send it.
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.
जिहि सरि मारी काल्हि, सो सर मेरे मन बस्या। तिहि सरि अजहूं मारि, सर बिन सच पाऊं नहीं।।१७५२।।
The river which I crossed yesterday, has settled in my mind. Even today, I am crossing the river, and without the river, I cannot find the truth.
जौ रोऊं तो बल घटै, हंसौं तौ राम रिसाइ। मनही मांहि बिसूरणां, ज्यूं घुंण काठहि खाइ।।१७६३।।
If I cry, my strength diminishes; if I laugh, Ram becomes displeased. My mind is tormented internally, like a piece of wood being eaten by termites.
नैना अंतरि आव तूं, निस दिन निरषौं तोहि। कब हरि दरसन देहुगे, सो दिन आवै मोहि।।१७६८।।
The eyes are filled with your presence, and day and night I yearn for you. When will that day come when I will see Hari's vision?
पारब्रह्म के तेज का, कैसा है उनमान। कहिबे कूं सोभा नहीं, देख्याहीं परबान।।१७८३।।
What can be said about the radiance of the Supreme Being? It is beyond description; it is seen but cannot be expressed.
कबीर मन मधुकर भया, रह्या निरंतर बास। कंवल जू फूल्या फूल जलह बिन, को देखै निज दास।।१७८५।।
Kabir has become like a bee, constantly dwelling in the heart. The lotus blooms without water; who can see this servant's inner state?
अंतर कवल प्रकासिया, ब्रह्म वास तहां होइ। मन भवरा तहां लुबधिया, जांणैगा जन कोइ।।१७८६।।
The inner lotus shines with the presence of Brahma. The mind is captivated there; only a few understand this.
मन लागा मुनि सौं, गगन पहुंचा जाइ। देख्या चंदबिहूंणां चांदिणां, तहां अलख निरंजन राइ।।१७९४।।
The mind attached to the sage reaches the sky. There, the formless and transcendent is perceived beyond the moon and stars.
सरति समांणों निरति मैं, निरति रही निरधार। सुरति निरति परचा भया, तब खूले स्वयं दुबार।।१८०१।।
As the river flows continuously, it remains steadfast and unwavering. When the divine essence is realized, the doors to self-revelation open.
चिति पाई मन थिर भया, सतगुर करी सहाइ। अनिन कथा तनि आचरी, हिरदै त्रिभुवन राइ।।१८०८।।
Upon gaining knowledge, the mind becomes stable. With the help of the True Guru, one practices the teachings, becoming the ruler of the three worlds within the heart.
तन भीतरि मन मानियां, बाहरि कहा न जाइ। ज्वाला तै फिरि जल भया, बुझी बलंती लाइ।।१८१०।।
The mind and body are honored within, but cannot be described externally. The fire within turns to water and is extinguished by the process of contemplation.
तत पाया तन बीसरया, जब मनि धरिया ध्यान। तपनि गई सीतल भया, जब सुनि किया असनान।।१८११।।
The body was forgotten once the mind held meditation. Even the heat of austerity became cool, when the mind experienced the bath of contemplation.
अनहद बाजै नीझर झरै, उपजै ब्रह्म गियान। अबिगति अंतरि प्रगटै, लागै प्रेम धियान।।१८२२।।
The unstruck sound resonates and falls, and the knowledge of Brahma arises. The ineffable becomes apparent within, and love and contemplation arise.
आकासे मुखि औंधा कुवां, पाताले पनिहारि। ताका पांणी को हंसा पीवै, बिरला आदि विचारि।।१८२४।।
The sky is like an upside-down well, and the underworld is the water carrier. The swan of that water drinks it; few think deeply about this.
कबीर रेख सिंदूर की, काजल दिया न जाइ। नैनूं रमइया रमि रह्या, दूजा कहां समाइ।।१८३१।।
Kabir, the line of vermilion cannot be applied as kajal. The eyes of the beloved are absorbed in the beloved, where else can they be?
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.
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.
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.
कबीर भूलि बिगाड़िया, तूं नां करि मैला चित। साहिब गरवा लोड़िये, नफर बिगाड़ैं नित।।१८५७।।
Kabir says, don't ruin your mind with mistakes and keep it pure. Seek the Lord's protection, as people constantly cause harm.
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.
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.
पाणी केरा पूतला, राख्या पवन संवारि। नानां बांणी बोलिया, जोति धरी करतारि।।१८६६।।
Humans are mere dolls of water, sustained by the breath of life. The Creator has infused them with divine light, allowing them to speak and act.
चिंतामणि मन में बसै, सोई चित मैं आणि। बिन चिंता चिंता करै, इहैं प्रभु की बाणि।।१८७३।।
The philosopher's stone resides in the mind, bringing forth whatever is desired. Worry not, for the Lord’s will takes care of everything.
पांडल पंजर मन भंवर, अरथ अनूपम बास। राम नाम सींच्या अंमी, फल लागा बेसास।।१८८३।।
The hollow cage of the mind is like a bee, seeking the unparalleled fragrance. Watered by Ram’s name, it bears a bountiful harvest.
पद गाये लैलीन ह्व, कटी न संसै पास। सबै पिछीड़े ग्रिह मैं, इक गृही मैं बैराग।।१८८६।।
Merely singing hymns with superficial devotion does not eliminate doubts. While most remain attached to household life, true renunciation can exist even within a householder.
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.
चित चेतनि मैं गरक ह्व, चेत्य न देखैं मंत। कत कत की सालि पाड़िये, गल बल सहर अनंत।।१८९१।।
When the mind is deeply engrossed in thought, it does not heed advice. Even if you tear the threads of ignorance one by one, the knots of delusion are endless.
काइर हुंवां न छूटिये, कछु सूरातन साहि। भरम भलका दूरि करि, सुमिरण सेल संवाहि।।१९०७।।
The fool will not be freed, despite all attempts. Dispel doubts and remember the Lord's name.
षूंणै पड्या न छुटियो, सुणि रे जीव अबूझ। कबीर मरि मैदान मैं, करि इंद्रया सूं झूझ।।१९०८।।
The deaf will not escape from the truth, listen, O soul. Kabir says, even in death, struggle with the senses.
कबीर साई सूरिवां, मन सूं मांडे झूझ। पंच पयादा पाड़ि ले, दूरि करै सब दूज।।१९०९।।
Kabir says, one who is devoted to the Lord, fights with the mind. Removing the five enemies, one can be free from all others.
कबीर आरणि पैसि करि, पीछैं रहै सु सूर। सांई सूं साचा भया, रहसी सदा हजूर।।१९११।।
Kabir says, even if you struggle with the fire, the sun remains behind. By being true to the Lord, you will always be in His presence.
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 तो ऐसी ह्वै पड़ी, मनका रुचित कीन्ह। मरनैं कहा डराइये, हाथि स्यंधौरा लीन्ह।।१९१७।।
Now that it is like this, it has pleased the mind. Why should we fear death? The elephant's tusk has been seized.
जाइ पूछौ उस घाइलै, दिवस पीड निस जाग। बांहणहारा जणि है, कै जांणै जिस लाग।।१९२०।।
Go and ask the wounded one, he remains awake in the pain of the day and night. The one who bears the pain knows best what it feels like.
कोइ एक देखै संत जन, जांकै पांचूं हाथि। जाके पांचूं बस नहीं, ता हरि संग न साधि।।१९३४।।
One who truly sees a saint knows that all five senses are under control. If one's senses are not under control, one cannot attain union with the Divine.
घटि बधि कहीं न देखिए, ब्रह्म रह्या भरपूरि। आप पिछांणै बहिरा, नेड़ा की थैं दूरि।।१९३७।।
Do not look elsewhere for the Divine, for Brahman is present everywhere. If you are blind to it, you are far from it even when it is near.
मैं जाण्यां हरि दूरि है, हरि रह्या सकल भरपूरि। आप पिछांणै बहिरा, नेड़ा की थैं दूरि।।१९३८।।
I know that the Divine is not distant; it is present everywhere. If you are blind to it, you are distant even when it is close.
हिरदा भीतरि दौं बलै, धूंवां प्रगट न होइ। जाकै लागी सो लखै, कै जिहि लाई सोइ।।१९४३।।
The fire inside the heart remains hidden, not revealed outwardly. Only those who experience it know it, just as the smoke reveals the fire to those who can perceive it.
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 ना मिले, राम भगति का गीत। तन मन सौंपे मृग ज्यूं, सुनै बधिक का गीत।।१९६६।।
No one is found to sing the song of Ram's devotion. Just as a deer surrenders its body and mind, it listens to the hunter's song.
ऐसा कोई ना मिले, अपना घर देइ जराइ। पंचूं लरिका पटिक करि, रहै राम ल्यौं लाइ।।१९६७।।
No one is found who will set fire to their own house. Five children are dressed as beggars, while Ram remains in the same place.
हम देखत जग जात है, जग देखत हम जांह। ऐसा कोई ना मिले, पकड़ि छुड़ावे बांह।।१९७०।।
We observe the world as it moves, and the world observes us as we go. No one is found who can grasp and release the arm.
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.
पैड़ै मोती बिखरया, अंधा निकस्या आइ। जोति बिनां जगदीस की, जगत उलंघ्या जाइ।।१९७८।।
Pearls are scattered on the ground, but the blind cannot see them. Without the light of the divine, the world is crossed over.
जिहि घटि जांण बिनांण है, तिहि घटि आबटणां घणां। बिन षडै संग्राम है, नित उठि मन सौं झूझुणां।।१९९५।।
In a place where there is no knowledge, there is much suffering. Without the six stages of conflict, the mind rises and struggles daily.
पीलक दौड़ी सांइयां, लोग कहै पिंड रोग। छांनै लंघण नित करै, राम पियारे जोग।।१९९७।।
The mad person runs about, people call it a disease of the body. But the one who practices devotion daily is engaged in the true yoga of Ram.
जिहि घट मैं संसौ बसै, तिहि घटि राम न जोइ। राम सनेही दास विचि, तिणं न संचर होइ।।२००१।।
In a place where doubt resides, Ram does not dwell. The devotee who loves Ram does not wander around.
कबीर चलया जाइ था, आगैं मिलया खुदाइ। मीरां मुझ सौं यौं कह्या, किनि फुरमाई गाइ।।२००७।।
Kabir went on his way, and ahead he met the divine. Mirabai spoke of me, but what did she say?
विषै विलंबी आत्मां, ताका मजकण खाया सोधि। ग्यांन अंकून न ऊगई, भावै निज प्रमोधि।।२०५४।।
The soul indulged in poison, finds its joy in the feast of senses. Knowledge doesn't sprout in such a mind, they revel in their own delusion.
ग्यांनी तो नींडर भया, मांजै नांहीं संक। इंद्री केरे बसि पड़या, भूंचौं विषै निसंक।।२०६०।।
The wise become fearless, free from doubt. But those under the sway of senses, are fearless in worldly poison.
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.
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.
कबिरा सोई शूरमां, जिन पांचों राखी चरि। जिनके पांचूं मोकली, तिनसूं साहब दूर।।२०८०।।
Kabir says, true heroes are those who control their five senses. Those who fail are far from the Lord.
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.
चित चेतन ताजी करै, लौ की करैं लगाम। शब्द गुरु का ताजना, पहुंचै संत सुजान।।२०८६।।
The mind becomes alert when the reins of desire are tightened. By following the words of the Guru, a wise saint reaches the ultimate goal.
भाव भलका सुरति शर, धर धीरज करतान। मनकी मूठी जहां लगि, चोट तहांहीं जान।।२०९६।।
The essence of virtue is like a sharp arrow; it requires patience to bear. Wherever the mind's grasp is applied, the injury is felt there.
लालच लोभ न मोह मद, एकल भला अनीह। हरिजन सौरा राम सो, शिर बिन कदै न होय।।२१०४।।
Greed, desire, and delusion do not affect the one who is single and calm. The true devotee of Ram, such a person never loses his head.
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.
रन रोही अतिही हुआ, साजन मिला हुजूरि। शूरा शूरा ठाहरा, भाजिगई भक भूमि।।२१२६।।
The battlefield has become intense, and the beloved has met the lord. The brave stand firm, while the coward flees the earth.
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.
ज्ञान कामना लौ गुनां, तन तरकस मन तीर। भलका बहै है सारका, मारै हदफ कबीर।।२१३६।।
Knowledge is the fire of desire, the body is the quiver and the mind is the arrow. True value flows from this, says Kabir, aiming at the target.
बांका गढ बांका मता, बांकी गढकी पौलि। कछि कबिरा नीकसा, यम सिर घाली रौलि।।२१३९।।
The strong fort is the strong mind, and the strong fence is the strong intellect. Kabir says the true protection is the one that conquers even Yama (death).
पांय पदारथ पेलिया, कांकर लीन्हां हाथ। जोडी बिछुरी हंस की, चला वुंगा के साथ।।२१५४।।
The foot of the goal is fixed, hands are full of pebbles. The pair of the swan is scattered, and it walks with the crane.
हीरा को कछु ना घटा, घट जो बेचन हार। जन्म गमायो आपनौ, अंधे पशू गंवार।।२१६०।।
The jewel does not diminish, it is diminished by the seller. Life is wasted, like blind and foolish animals.
बाद बके दमजात है, सरति निरति लै बोल। नित प्रति हीरा शब्द का, गाहक आगै खोल।।२१६३।।
After the crow's call, the silence is heard, speaking with the flow. Every day the jewel of words, opens for the seeker.
पियासों परिचय नहीं, दादा रहि गा दूर। लल्ला लौ लागी रहै, नन्ना सदा हजूर।।२१६९।।
The thirsty do not recognize, the elder remains distant. The one in need remains, the little one always present.
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.
एक वस्तु के नाम बहु, लीजै वस्तु पहिचान। नाम पक्ष नहिं कीजिये, सार तत्त्व ले जान।।२२०७।।
Many names exist for one thing; recognize the essence rather than focusing on names. Understand the true nature of things.
नाम अनन्त जो ब्रह्म का, तिनका वार न पार। मन मानै सौ लीजिये, कहै कबीर बिचार।।२२०८।।
The name of the infinite Brahman cannot be fully understood by words. Accept the truth with your mind, Kabir says.
राम कबीरा एक है, कहन सुनन को दोय। दो करि सोई जानई, सतगरु मिला न हाय।।२२११।।
Ram and Kabir are one, though they are spoken of as two. Only those who have met the true Guru understand this.
हरि का बना स्वरूप सब, जेता यह आकार। अक्षर अर्थ यों भाषिये, कहै कबीर बिचार।।२२१२।।
All forms are manifestations of the Divine. The letter and its meaning are one, Kabir says.
बेहद बिचारौ हद तजौ, हद तजि मेलो आस। सबै अलिंगन मेटिकै, करौ निरन्तर वास।।२२१९।।
Consider the infinite, abandon the limited, and with the abandoning of limits, live in constant embrace.
हद बंधा बेहद रमैं, पल पल देखै नूर। मनवा तहां ले राखिया, जहां बाजै अनहद तूर।।२२२३।।
Bound by limits, the infinite is experienced; every moment it reveals light. The mind should be kept there where the unstruck sound of the divine is heard.
हद छांडि बेहद गया, रहा निरन्तर होय। बेहद के मैदान में, रहा कबीरा सोय।।२२२५।।
Leaving behind the limits, one enters the infinite, remaining continuously. Kabir resides in the field of the infinite.
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.
अंडा किन बिसमिल किया, घुन किया किन हलाल। मछली किन जबह करी, सब खाने का ख्याल।।२२५५।।
Who slaughtered the egg and made it permissible to eat? Who butchered the fish? Everyone is focused only on what they eat.
स्वामी सेवक एक मत, मन ही मैं मिलि जाइ। चतुराई रीझै नहीं, रीझै मन कै भाइ।।२२६९।।
Master and servant share the same mind, they merge in spirit. Cunning does not please, only the love of the heart does.