Jo Dise So To Hai Nahin,
Hai So Kaha Na Jayee
Bin Dekhe Parteet Na Aave,
Kahe Na Koyee Patiyana
Samajh Hoye To Rabeen Cheenho,
Achraj Hoye Ayana
Koi Dhyave Nirakar Ko,
Koi Dhyave Aakaara
Ja Bidhi In Dono Te Nyara,
Jane Jananhara
Woh Raag To Likhia Na Jayee
Matra Lakhe Na Kana
Kahat Kabir So Padhe Na Parlay,
Surat Nirat Jin Jana
English Translation
What is seen is not the Truth
What is cannot be said
Trust comes not without seeing
Nor understanding without words
The wise comprehends with knowledge
To the ignorant it is but a wonder
Some worship the formless God
Some worship His various forms
In what way He is beyond these attributes
Only the Knower knows
That music cannot be written
How can then be the notes
Says Kabir, awareness alone will overcome illusion
Notes
This verse of Kabir deals with the concept of Illusion and Reality. An average person is trapped in the conflict of illusion and reality. The only Truth - the One Inexpressible God - is obviously beyond expression. Kabir in this verse affirms that only when one becomes aware and regulates one's affairs with awareness, only then one can be free from the pitfalls of illusion.
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There is a fine balance with the first line. Often truth stares us in the face, yet we choose to change the message. Many times people will say, "didn't you see the red flags? Didn't you see that the person was dishonest?" How many times have opportunities been employed to try to change a person into what WE want them to be? If someone is known as a "bad boy", why fool yourself into thinking you are the one to change him? Lines 22-23 are beautiful, but again, shrewd personalities tap into the beauty and twist the images/sentiments. I often marvel at how genocides happen, especially when the name of God is used to justify the killings. Half-truths or outright lies are presented to the masses, and next thing you know, a holocaust is in place.
I think that on one level I do like the truth that is expressed in the lines, yet the cautious side of me holds back from fully embracing it. Too many times when the divine is made to emulate human understanding and emotions, abuse by the "powers that be" corrupt them. (these are just my opinions.) -
wonderful! how beautifully expressed...
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If only our corrupt politicians read it!
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Great
O! this is one of the greatest pieces of thoughts I have heard ever
It is like ___ truth is beauty & beauty cant be defined____ wonderful
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'Some worship the formless god,
Some worship His various forms.'
I thought those were very awe inspired words. Become more aware of your surroundings and all that is real will be more obvious. Very abstract idea I think, because how can you be sure that what you are aware of is true? Very thought provoking piece
pEace
Chris -
Kabir's dohas were my favourite in my school days. They fascinated me though their meaning was not always clear. Now, I understand the wisdom contained in those pithy and sometimes, cryptic words and my fascination grows ten fold.
Krishna -
This is very inspiring and thought-provoking. I am glad I ventured in today...It has made me think. Especially the line
/awareness alone will overcome illusion/
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