Index of Dohas in English Index of Dohas in Hindi

1. Looking at the grinding stone 1. Chalti Chakki Dekh Kar

2. I searched for the crooked 2. Bura Jo Dekhan Mein Chala
3. Tomorrows work do today 3. Kaal Kare So Aaj Kar
4. Speak such words 4. Aisee Vani Boliye
5. Slowly slowly O mind 5. Dheere Dheere Re Mana 
6. Give me so much O God 6. Sayeen Itna Deejiye
7. In vain is the eminence 7. Bada Hua To Kya Hua
8. Like seed contains the oil 8. Jaise Til Mein Tel Hai
9. Begging is like perishing 9. Mangan Maran Saman Hai
10. Neither illusion nor the mind 10. Maya Mari Na Man Mara
11. Kabira in the market place 11. Kabira Khara Bazaar Mein
12. Kabir's mind got cleansed 12. Kabir Man Nirmal Bhaya
13. Reading books everyone died 13. Pothi Padh Padh Jag Mua
14. In anguish everyone 14. Dukh Mein Simran Sab Kare
15. Guru is the washerman 15. Gur Dhobi Sikh Kapda
16. Alive one sees 16. Jeevat Samjhe Jeevat Bujhe
17. Inexpressible is the story of Love 17. Akath Kahani Prem Ki
18. Worry is the bandit 18. Chinta Aisee Dakini
19. Don't be so proud and vain 19. Kabira Garv Na Keejiye
20. Don't be so proud and vain - 2 20. Kabira Garv Na Keejiye - 2 
21. By my doing nothing happens 21. Kabir Kiya Kutch Na Hote Hai
22. Like the pupil in the eye  22. Jyon Naino Mein Putli
23. When you were born     23. Jab Tun Aaya Jagat Mein
24. First the pangs of separation 24. Pehle Agan Birha Ki
25. With the ocean set ablaze   25. Aag Jo Lagi Samand Mein  
26. Kabir, save the wealth ...     26. Kabir So Dhan Sanchiye      
27. Hope lives in a dying world     27. Aasa Jive Jag Mare   
28. If I say one, It is not   28. Ek Kahun To Hai Nahin 
29. Kabir, This is the abode of love   29. Kabir Yeh Ghar Prem Ka  
30. The Rosary rotating by the hand    30. Maala To Kar Mein Phire   
31. Eons have passed whirling rosary  31. Maala Pherat Jug Bhaya 
32. The rosary made of wooden  32. Kabir Maala Kaath Kee 
33. When "I" was then  Hari was not  33. Jab Mein Tha Tab Hari Nahin 
34. Ages have passed shaving  34. Moond Munddavat Din Gaye 
35. What harm have the hair done  35. Keson Kaha Bigadia 
36. Arise from slumber O Kabir 36. Kabir Soota Kya Kare 
37. O Kabir, Your Hut 37. Kabira Teri Jhompri  
38. He alone's the Warrior   38. Kabir Soyee Soorma  

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Kabir Dohas - 1                                                              

Chalti Chakki Dekh Kar, Diya Kabira Roye

Dui Paatan Ke Beech Mein,Sabit Bacha Na Koye

Translation
Looking at the grinding stones, Kabir laments
In the duel of wheels, nothing stays intact.

My understanding
This doha picks up a situation from our daily life.
Kabir watches the woman grinding wheat on the
flour mill. I have used the word woman here as
generally it is the woman who does this work even
today in the rural Indian society. The wheels are
made of stone.  One is stationary while the other
on top is made to rotate by turning it with the help
of a handle attached to it. The grain that is put into
it gets crushed and the converted flour comes
out.  Thus the literal translation given above
conveys that.

(Diya Kabira Roye) Kabir cries out, however,  is

what makes the reader to contemplate on this
Doha and realize for oneself the hidden meaning
behind this metaphor. Dui Patan here signifies
earth (Prithvi) and sky (Akash) and within the
ambit of these is all creation and life as also the manifestation of all natural phenomenon of
dualities – day and night, life and death, joys and sorrows, thereby making life forever in motion
(Chalti Chakki) and an ever changing process. Trapped in this duality, whatever we see is
perishable. Nothing that we comprehend is eternal.

Kabir Dohas - 2      

Bura Jo Dekhan Main Chala, Bura Naa Milya Koye

Jo Munn Khoja Apnaa, To Mujhse Bura Naa Koye

Translation
I searched for the crooked, met not a single one
When searched myself, "I" found the crooked one

My Understanding
This doha deals with our perception behavior and tendencies. It has been invariably noticed that
we tend to find fault with someone else for our situations and circumstances.   Our "I", the ego,
always tries to put blame on others.   Non-awareness of our own self is the cause of this
attitude.  Resultantly, we find ourselves being busy in criticizing and condemning others and
conveniently term them as crooked or evil.
So Kabir says that instead of finding fault and maligning others, dive deep into your own-self. 
Amazingly, an honest introspection will reveal that all fault lies with "me" and "my" own
perceptions and attitudes. If there is any evil or crookedness, it is in "me".  Correcting this and
opting for a loving and compassionate attitude will change one's perceptions and the world will
appear wonderful all over again.

Kabir Dohas - 3

Kaal Kare So Aaj Kar, Aaj Kare So Ub

Pal Mein Pralaya Hoyegi, Bahuri Karoge Kub

Translation
Tomorrows work do today, today's work now
if the moment is lost, the work be done how

My Understanding
This doha is a little difficult to translate,
particularly when the words "Pal mein Pralaya
Hoyegi", have been translated by many scholars
as the doomsday may come at any moment or
in similar words.  In my understanding Kabir,
would not have meant this.  He knew more than
anyone else that if God is eternal, his creation is
also eternal.  Also being a Guru, Kabir would not
like to talk about doomsday, as he himself was
full of life. 

In this Doha, Kabir has clearly tried to explain

the human tendency of laziness and
procrastination.  It is a known fact that we all
tend to postpone matters, we are indecisive and
given a choice we would like others to be doing
work and we simply enjoying a cool time.  When
it comes to us, we try to get away by saying,
"Very busy, no time." Don't we?

This lethargy is what Kabir is condemning.  Besides, according to me, his emphasis is on NOW,
the present, the moment as it is.  Now, that is Life, the moment.  It is in the NOW, in the
spontaneous ness that one gets energized to do, to achieve, to realize.  As they say, it is NOW
or NEVER.

Keeping this context in mind, this Kabir Doha clearly teaches us to shed all procrastination and
lethargy.  It motivates us to do whatever we have to do, and do it now.  If we will keep
postponing it, then the work will never be done.

Kabir Dohas - 4        

Aisee Vani Boliye, Mun Ka Aapa Khoye

Apna Tan Sheetal Kare, Auran Ko Sukh Hoye

Translation
Speak such words, sans ego's ploy
Body remains composed, giving the listener joy

My Understanding
This doha is a gem.  It deals with human
psychology, metaphysics and a basic tenet of
the Indian philosophy. The ancients of the Vedic
literature have laid tremendous emphasis on
speech. They have mentioned in
innumerable shlokas that our speech has a
direct connection with our bodily humors. They
proclaimed that sound and sight are the
underlying source of all vibrations. This has
been scientifically proven over and over again.

We know that all sounds create vibrations.  And

these vibrations affect both the speaker and the
listener. Soothing, compassionate and loving
words breed togetherness, while harsh speech
breeds hatred. And, we also know that human
speech is one of the main ingredient that differentiates mankind from the rest of the animal
kingdom.

Thus, Kabir, in this doha crystallizes the power of the spoken word. He teaches us to speak in
such a manner that keeps us harmonious and composed thereby making the listener feel a
sense of joy in the communication.

Experiment yourself and rediscover the power of the spoken word.

Kabir Dohas - 5                                                                            

Dheere Dheere Re Mana, Dheere Sub Kutch Hoye

Mali Seenche So Ghara, Ritu Aaye Phal Hoye
Translation
Slowly slowly O mind, everything in own pace happens
Gardner may water a hundred buckets, fruit arrives only in its season

My understanding
Nature never works in haste. Picking up from this eternal
law of Mother  Nature, Kabir brings forward the state of
our daily hurried lives.  We are always in a rush to
achieve, acquire and be victorious.  It is like a mad
race.  This brings us under pressure causing ill-health,
fatigue and frustration.  More than that it breeds ill-
discipline.  We get forced into a habit pattern whereby
we find ourselves either negligent or indulgent.

This all can be corrected if one understands the Doha.

Kabir, addressing the doha to the mind which
is chanchal or monkeying around, brings about the
importance of a relaxed mind, a quiet mind. By relaxed mind, one should not imply lethargy. A
very active mind can also be very relaxed.  Relaxation comes through awareness and
acceptance.

It is a known fact that a seed sprouts into a sapling only after some time and the sapling grows
into a tree gradually.  And the fruit arrives only in its own season.  By the gardener pouring "a
hundred buckets of water" (extensive irrigation) will not hasten the arrival of the fruit, rather will
ruin the process.

Kabir thus makes us realize that one must do one's best and yet should have the patience for
the results to manifest in their own appropriate time. For Nature does not work in haste.

Kabir Dohas - 6

Sayeen Itna Deejiye, Ja Mein Kutumb Samaye

Main Bhi Bhookha Na Rahun, Sadhu Na Bhookha Jaye

Translation
Give so much O God, suffice to envelop my clan
I should not suffer cravings, nor the visitor goes unfed

My Understanding
Very simple in the native Hindi, but very difficult to translate. It is also true, that because of its
simplicity, the reader can miss the point that Kabir wants to make.
This Doha deals with the concept of contentment, compassion and a very clear attitude of
service. It is not greed when Kabir asks God for abundance. We have to remember that Kabir
was a professional weaver, a house-holder with children.  Thus, being the primary provider, he
reveals in this Doha his commitment to his clan.  At the same time, Kabir is content.  He is not
greedy.  He prays to God to give him enough that would be suffice to take care of his needs. 

The next lines add another dimension.  It reveals the compassion Kabir has for others.  In India
it is a tradition that if a sadhu visits, the household will make sure that they feed him.  Sadhu
literally means a monk, a sanyasin, who has renounced the world.

I personally understand that Kabir implies here the the 'sadhu' to be any visitor or as we call
"Atithi" - a guest. Kabir wants to ensure that if someone visited his household, that guest should
also go fulfilled.

Kabir Dohas - 7

Bada Hua To Kya Hua, Jaise Ped Khajoor

Panthi Ko Chaya Nahin, Phal Laage Atidoor

Translation
In vain is the eminence, just like a date tree
No shade for travelers, fruit is hard to reach

My Understanding
A date tree grows very tall, projecting eminence
and a distinction of its own.  Yet, it does not
provide shade to weary travelers. Besides, it's
fruit grows so far that one cannot easily pluck it.

Using this simile, Kabir in this doha points out to

us about our vain personalities. What good is
our so called eminence, if it is neither
compassionate nor helpful to others? Kabir
emphasizes that we should shed our greed, selfishness and insecure tendencies and establish
ourselves in such a way that we should be willing to give and share. Only then we will be
blessed and become a blessing to others.

– Rajender Krishan

Kabir Dohas - 8

Jaise Til Mein Tel Hai, Jyon Chakmak Mein Aag

Tera Sayeen Tujh Mein Hai, Tu Jaag Sake To Jaag

Translation
Like seed contains the oil,  fire in flint stone
Your temple seats the Divine, realize if you can

My Understanding
What is real and how is it veiled?

This yearning for the Truth is the basic search of everyone.  We all want to know what God
really is.  Kabir in this doha reveals the secret.   He unfolds the mystery in a very simple way.
He takes the example of the anti-seed which contains the oil. However, when we see the seed,
we don't see the oil.  It is only seen when energy is used to extract the oil from the seed. Same
way fire is not visible when we look at the flint stone. However, vigorous rubbing manifests fire
which is already hidden in the flint.  Same way, Kabir asserts, that our body - the temple - seats
the Divine.  This divinity is our true self.  However, due to our ignorance, we are unaware of this
reality.  Kabir challenges us in this doha to shed the veils of ignorance and awaken to realize
our true self.

This doha also reminds of Swami Vivekananda, who said, "Man is potentially divine and the sole
purpose of this life is to discover that divinity. The time to do is here and now".
Kabir Dohas - 9

Mangan Maran Saman Hai, Mat Koi Mange Beekh

Mangan Se Marna Bhala, Yeh Satguru Ki Seekh

Translation
Begging is like perishing, none should go imploring
It is better to die than beg, this is pure Guru's teaching

My Understanding
It is unfortunate but true that a vast number of
people all over the world survive through begging. 
In non-affluent countries the scenario is worst.  In
affluent societies, this phenomenon can be seen in
the guise of welfare plans.

The compassionate Guru knows that a person who

sets out to beg (at least for the first time), literally
kills his inner self and undergoes tremendous
shame and humiliation. In this simple verse, Kabir
boldly attempts to shake up the conscience of the
people. Without using the words, he appeals the
masses to work honestly and earn their livelihood.

Kabir Dohas - 10

Maya Mari Na Man Mara, Mar Mar Gaye Shareer

Asha Trishna Na Mari, Keh Gaye Das Kabir

Translation
Neither illusion nor the mind, only bodies
attained death
Hope and delusion did not die, so Kabir said.

My Understanding
To understand this doha correctly, one must
understand first the word 'Maya'. This word
is like an unsolved riddle and hard to
translate. For want of a proper word, it is loosely translated as illusion. In its depths, 'Maya'
perhaps means, Nature on the go...ever changing...hence an illusion.

In this doha, Kabir says while the physical body that is born, lives and eventually dies, the world
of Maya goes on as does the Mind (that intelligent governing Self). Hope and the deceptive
greed or delusion does not die either. Even in his death bed, one continues to cling with the
perishable - the body, with one's aspirations, desires - and the cravings, the urges, the
yearnings (trishna) dies not. In fact, the play of the world "leela" goes on because of this.

In his typical mystic style, Kabir compels the reader to contemplate and realize the Truth.

Kabir Dohas - 11

Kabira Khara Bazaar Mein, Mange Sabki Khair

Na Kahu Se Dosti, Na Kahu Se Bair

Translation
Kabira in the market place, wishes welfare of all
Neither friendship nor enmity with anyone at all

My Understanding
Kabir, the professional weaver,
visited the market place to sell his
woven goods. Now selling is a
competitive affair and all kinds of
strategies are adopted by merchants
to make the extra buck. Sometimes
the strategy can even be a dirty trick
or a scam.

In this doha, as is his style, Kabir

without saying much, presents a
balanced approach. He seems to
affirm that while conducting one's
business, one need not adopt tricky
means and should not become
emotional. An honest deal does not
warrant the businessman to become either friendly with one's clientele nor develop any malice.
This is one of the important maxims of Do's and Don'ts of any progressive business.

From spiritual and mystic point of view, Bazaar is a reference to the world itself where give and
take, is the mechanism of dealings...i.e. all relationships at the physical level are conditional and
based on business-like (not literally business) transactions. So Kabir is giving us an idea of how
we experience ups and downs due to attachments - i.e. due to strong feelings towards or
against things. And he says the best way to avoid that is by being in a state of acceptance and
detachment.

Kabir Dohas - 12
Kabir Man Nirmal Bhaya, Jaise Ganga Neer
Pache Pache Har Phire, Kahat Kabir Kabir

Translation
Kabir's mind got cleansed like the holy Ganges water
Now everyone follows, saying Kabir Kabir

My Understanding
Everyone desires to be known, to belong.  Yet due to
the chaotic states of our minds, we find ourselves
secluded and limited.  The cause of this chaos is our
attachments and bondages.  For some reason we are
unable to break these shackles and are therefore
confined.

The desire to scale the heights of infinity can be

achieved only when there is release from our
attachments and feelings of insecurity   that bind us. 
And, this is possible only when our mind is cleansed
from the impurities of ego, illicit passions, anger, fear,
greed and procrastination.

Once the mind is free then we find ourselves relaxed, loving and compassionate. Then
everyone looks up to us and  wants to associate with us with confidence.  Only those with
relaxed and loving mind find themselves in harmony with everyone.

Kabir Dohas - 13

Pothi Padh Padh Kar Jag Mua, Pandit Bhayo Na Koye

Dhai Aakhar Prem Ke, Jo Padhe so Pandit Hoye

Translation
Reading books everyone died, none became any wise
One who reads the word of Love, only becomes wise

My Understanding
To understand this doha in its true perspective
is important. We all read and now with
tremendous media exposure, we are seemingly
more informed. Everyone seems to know
everything. Yet, the truth is that inspite of all this
information, there is no awareness.   We are not
at peace. There is a lot of frustration all around. 
Our minds are not quiet and relaxed.  We talk of
Love but have no compassion.  Selfishness,
greed, fear, hatred and similar tendencies seem
to grip us all the time. Why?
I have found myself in this quagmire a number of times.

Kabir in this doha shows the way, in his simple but dynamic style. He daringly says that despite
all our readings, despite all our knowledge, we cannot become wise.  Only if we 'read' Love,
become loving and loveable, only then wisdom will dawn on us.  Only then Life will be worth
living.

Kabir Dohas - 14

Dukh Mein Simran Sab Kare, Sukh Mein Kare Na Koye

Jo Sukh Mein Simran Kare, Tau Dukh Kahe Ko Hoye

Translation
In anguish everyone prays to Him, in joy does none
To One who prays in happiness, how sorrow can come

My Understanding
Let someone suddenly wave his hand in front of
your eyes and you will see that the eyes blink. 
And if you are caught unawares, you may just
say 'O my God'!

Such is the nature of mankind.  When we are in

distress, in a state of helplessness, we
invariably then look up in the skies and
communicate with Him in our own silent prayer. 
However, when things are going good, we
forget Him. Kabir in this doha highlights this and
gives a promise when he says that we shall not
suffer if we pray to Him during our good times.

Kabir Dohas - 15 

Gur Dhobi Sikh Kapda, Saboo Sirjan Har

Surti Sila Pur Dhoiye, Nikse Jyoti Apaar

Translation
Guru the washer man, disciple is the cloth 
The name of God liken to the soap
Wash the mind on foundation firm
To realize the glow of Truth

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir shows the quality of a good teacher, the Guru.
Like only by following the technique of washing clothes, the washer
man cleans the cloth, same way the preceptor or the teacher takes
upon himself to cleanse the mind of his disciples and guide them to
realize the Truth within.

Viewed in context of our day to day life, we can observe that only
when we are totally involved in our actions, only then we can be
assured of achieving results.  Diligence, dedication and total
intensity is required while performing any act, only then one finds
the true joy, the fulfillment.

Kabir Dohas - 16

Jeevat Samjhe Jeevat Bujhe, Jeevat He Karo Aas

Jeevat Karam Ki Fansi Na Kaati, Mue Mukti Ki Aas  

Translation
Alive one sees, alive one knows
Thus crave for salvation when full of life
Alive you did not cut the noose of binding actions
Hoping liberation with death!

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir is referring to the concept
of salvation which all religions guarantee in
one form or the other.  When someone dies,
we all tend to offer condolences by saying,
"May God give peace to the departed soul".

However, liberation cannot come until one

snaps all earthly bonds.  Besides, what good
is liberation or salvation, when one is dead,
unable to recount, unable to narrate and
unable to share?

Referring to the theory of Karma, Kabir

clearly suggests in this Doha that while
conducting our actions, we should be
diligent. We should not get attached or
enslaved by them and thereby get trapped in
the quagmire of ego, greed, hatred, fear,
procrastination, etc. Only when one is non-
attached to the fruits of the action, only then one can be free from the bondage, only then one
can be liberated while full of life. 

Kabir Dohas - 17

Akath Kahani Prem Ki, Kutch Kahi Na Jaye

Goonge Keri Sarkara, Baithe Muskae

Translation
Inexpressible is the story of Love
It cannot be revealed by words
Like the dumb eating sweet-meat
Only smiles, the sweetness he cannot tell

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir refers to the situation
of a person in Love, a person who has
realized the Truth. This compassionate
one does not brag, does not talk for the
wise one knows that it would be as futile
an effort as the mute smile of a dumb
trying to express the sweetness of the
sweet-meat.

In our daily life too, we find that silence

projects our love expressions better than
the hollow words we utter for another.
Truly it has been said that Love does not
need the crutches of a language to
express the inexpressible state of being
in Love.

Kabir Dohas - 18

Chinta Aisee Dakini, Kat Kaleja Khaye

Vaid Bichara Kya Kare, Kahan Tak Dawa Lagaye

Translation
Worry is the bandit that eats into one's heart
What the doctor can do, what remedy to impart?

My Understanding
Discontentment causes worry and worry itself becomes the
cause that creates chaos in the mind.  All peace is lost and
the more one entertains the worry, the more armored 'she'
becomes to destroy the very vitality of a man.  There is no
doctor and no remedy for this cause.  This is so true and can
be observed by anyone in one's own affairs.
Kabir Dohas - 19

Kabira Garv Na Keejiye, Uncha Dekh Aavaas

Kaal Paron Bhuin Letna, Ooper Jamsi Ghaas

Translation
Says Kabir
Don't be so proud and vain
Looking at your high mansion
Death makes one lie on bare land
And grass will grow thereon

My Understanding
Pride, arrogance and vanity are all related to our ego, our
perishable belongings and things which are not eternal. In
this Doha, Kabir gives a clear warning by explaining the
eternal ultimate Truth i.e. Death.  We all know that we have
to die, but are we willing to accept this fact?  Deep behind
our psyche is the idea that everything else is going to perish
to die, but "I" will go on eternally.  Hence, we cling to our
perishables and become possessive and selfish.  This
causes us to become arrogant, greedy, proud and vain.

Kabir emphasizes the need to understand the cycle of Life

and guides us to shed our pride.

Kabir Dohas - 20

Kabira Garv Na Keejiye, Kaal Gahe Kar Kes

Na Jaane Kit Mare Hai, Kya Des Kya Pardesh

Translation
Says Kabir
Don't be so proud and vain
The clutches of Time are dark
Who knows where shall it kill
Whether at home or abroad

My Understanding
Pride, arrogance and vanity are all related to our ego, our
perishable belongings and things which are not eternal. In this
Doha, Kabir gives a clear warning by explaining the eternal
ultimate Truth i.e. Death. This doha is similar in essence to the
preceding doha #19. Death is inevitable and one who remembers
this in fact becomes humble, compassionate and true to oneself.
Both Doha # 19 and this one remind me of a story.

Once a young man (for this narration we will give a name to this young man as Raj) who had
been brought up by a traditional family, went to visit a famous Swami.

Now Raj had told by his mother that the Swami was a true preceptor, a Guru and that the
Guru's words were true and to be held in high esteem.

The meeting transpired as follows:

Raj asked the Swami, "Reverend Sir, how come my mind wanders around to forbidden places
and your does not?"  "Sir, how come I do back-biting and you don't?"  "Sir, how come I don't
have compassion for others, while you have?"  All the questions that Raj asked were of similar
nature.

Swami replied, "Raj, your questions are good, but it seems to me that in 24 hours from now you
will die".

Now Raj who had already been told by his mother that the Swami's words are true and to be
held in high esteem, was shocked. He got up and started getting ready to go.

The Swami asked, "Raj, what happened? You came with such vitality and by my one statement
you are totally dismayed."

Raj said, "Swami, my mother told me that your words are true and are to be held in high
esteem.  So please let me go so that I may meet my family members, friends and others before
I die."

The Swami said, "But there are still 24 hours.  Sit, we will talk more".

Raj said, "Reverend Sir, please let me go. I must meet my people before I die."

So Raj left and went home.  Met his mother and started crying.  The word spread. His friends
came, other family members came, neighbors came.  Everyone was crying with Raj.  Time
started flying.

Raj was only busy in either crying or counting the hours. When only 3 hours were left, he pulled
up a cot and lied down on it. Although the Death has not yet arrived, poor Raj is kind of dead.

When only an hour was left, the Swami walked in.

Swami said to Raj, "Raj, why are you lying down on the cot with your closed eyes.  Death is still
an hour away.  And an hour is 60 minutes long.   That's a lot of time.  Get up, let us talk".

Raj, "Swami, what is it now that you want to talk?  Just let me die peacefully."

Swami, "Raj, there is still time and our talk will get over before the 'ordained' time."

Raj, "Okay, Swami....say what you have to say."

Swami, "In the past 24 hours, did you curse anyone?"

Raj, "How could I curse anyone, I was all the time thinking about death."

Swami, "In the past 24 hours, did you think or wish ill for anyone?"

Raj, "How could I do that, I was all the time thinking about death."

Swami, "In the past 24 hours, did you steal?"

Raj, "Sir, how can you even ask that, I was all the time thinking about death."

Finally the Swami said, "Raj, I don't know who has to die and who has to live.  But
understanding the ultimate truth i.e. death can be very enlightening.  All the questions you
posed to me have been answered by yourself because of the awareness of death that you
experienced during the past 24 hours.  The difference between me and you is that you were
aware of death for the past 24 hours, I have been aware for the past 24 years."

Kabir Dohas - 21

Kabira Kiya Kutch Na Hote Hai, Ankiya Sab Hoye

Jo Kiya Kutch Hote Hai, Karta Aur Koye

Translation
Says Kabir
By my doing nothing happens
What I don't does come to pass
If anything happens as if my doing
Then truly it is done by someone else

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir shows the supremacy of the
divine will.  According to this Doha, Kabir
implies that everything happens according to
God's will.  Man is limited, both in his abilities
and his resources.  One cannot do anything
without being interdependent upon others. 

If a successful person claims his success to be

his singular achievement, then it would boil
down to be an arrogant statement.  It is the
contribution of others at various levels that
makes any noteworthy action to be
accomplished.

Take for example the simple aspect of life - our

food.  We all eat food. However, the food that
we eat passes through various stages.  First
the farmer sows the seed, then he nurses the
crop before harvesting it.  The food as raw material goes through the distribution channels. 
Then it comes home.  Then it is cooked. And only then it is eaten.

Kabir, thus emphatically asserts that it is the will of God that all actions get accomplished.  And
God here would be seen in his "Virat" form which is the entire universe.

In this doha, Kabir also implies that one should develop humility and shed the attitude of pride
and boastfulness.

Kabir Dohas - 22

Jyon Naino Mein Putli, Tyon Maalik Ghat Mahin

Moorakh Log Na Janhin, Baahar Dhudhan Jahin

Translation
Like the pupil in the eyes
The Lord resides inside
Ignorant do not know this fact
They search Him outside

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir using a very apt simile demonstrates the fact that God is within everyone. 
The wise thus realize Him by introspection, while the ignorant search Him externally.

God is unseen and inexpressible.  Anything that is seen, can be counted or measured,
automatically becomes mutable.  But God is not mutable. 

We can see a bunch of flowers, count them, weigh them, but how can we see, count or weigh
the fragrance? Same way, the Atman of the Hindu, the soul of the Christians is that
representation of God that resides within everyone and is yet unseen, unknown,
incomprehensible and inexpressible.
Kabir Dohas - 23

Jab Tun Aaya Jagat Mein, Log Hanse Tu Roye

Aise Karni Na Kari, Pache Hanse Sab Koye

Translation
When you were born in this world
Everyone laughed while you cried
Conduct NOT yourself in manner such
That they laugh when you are gone

My Understanding
In this Doha, Kabir reflects on the fact that when a
child is born, the entire family rejoices with glee. 
And when a person passes away, those who are
left behind mourn and cry.  However, true
mourning is done for those who left a loving
impression on their family, kith and kin, clan and
society at large.  It has also been noted that when
a cruel person passes away, people are more
happy and relaxed rather than in a mourning
state.

The impression of an individual, either as a

compassionate one or a wicked one, is the
outcome of one's actions conducted during one's
lifetime.  Kabir, in this doha warns that if one will
live one's life in an unbecoming manner, then no
one will shed a tear on his death.

Kabir Dohas - 24

Pehle Agan Birha Ki, Pachhe Prem Ki Pyas

Kahe Kabir Tub Janiye, Naam Milan Ki Aaas

Translation
First the pangs of separation
Next grows the thirst for Love
Says Kabir then only hope 
The union to materialize

My Understanding
How does one merit Love? How does one
become one with the One? How does one
attain that ultimate unity? In this Doha,
Kabir shows the way.

First, it is the longing of a person to be with

one's beloved. It can be one's choicest
person or one'sIshta or God.  Because, one feels the emotional pangs of separation the
intensity or thirst to meet the other increases.  Like a flame, it kindles the very being of a person.
Only when the desire becomes unshakeable and unbending, Kabir says, the seed of hope
germinates to eventually sprout into a true union.

This phenomenon applies to almost every aspect of our life. Even in our vocation, studies,
pursuits or daily chores, we find that only when our intent becomes clear, only then our hope
and faith grows. Only then the work becomes a source of joy. Only then we realize fulfillment.

Kabir Dohas - 25

Aag Jo Lagi Samand Mein, Dhuan Na Pargat Hoye

So Jane Jo Jarmua, Jaki Lagi Hoye

Translation
With the ocean set ablaze
The smoke yet manifests not
Only the one who gets burnt
Envisions the heat of loving thought

My Understanding
The agony and turmoil in the heart of a lover, a
devotee, is symbolically shown in this Doha as
the flame that is burning the ocean. Yet none
knows or can know about this pain because the
"smoke" is not visible! Only the one who is
suffering the separation from one's beloved can
understand the force of such a fire.

Kabir, in this Doha depicts the agony that a

devotee feels for his Lord or Ishta, or in our
normal day to day life, a lover feels for the
beloved. To others, the intensity, the pain of
separation is not comprehensible for this too is
precious for the lovers to reveal. It is but a
private affair!  Don't they say, only the wearer
knows where the shoe pinches!!

This Doha by Kabir is again a superb example of mystic poetry where in two lines, Kabir is able
to project the agony and the ecstasy of true love and devotion.

Kabir Dohas - 26

Kabir So Dhan Sanchiye, Jo Aage Ko Hoye

Sees Charaye Potli, Le Jaat Na Dekhya Koye

Translation
Kabir, save the wealth that 'remains' in the moment ultimate
Departing with a crown of material wealth, none has crossed the gate
  
My Understanding
All our life we are busy saving. Saving, for the rainy
days. Saving for the unforeseeable future, the old
age, etc. Surely, it is advisable to save. However,
there are also people who will save, at times, by
depriving themselves of even basics that are
essential for their individual growth and
development. And, there are also people, who will
save by NOT sharing, by amassing wealth with
wrong means and corrupt practices like bribery and
theft - victims of greed and insecurity. 

Kabir, keeping these factors in mind, says that this

amassed worldly wealth eventually does not
accompany when we die. It simply stays behind.
Therefore, Kabir suggests that we should save the
wealth that will be helpful now and beyond, the
strength of which shall become the path to
liberation. The "true" wealth that one is able to take
forward is the "Naam" and not the worldly wealth.
The Naam is strung to one's inner self while the
external wealth is limited to the physical body which
we all know does not go with us after death.

Note
The translation given above is 'inferred' and not literal. The literal translation would be: 

Kabir, save the wealth that remains in the imminent future

Departing with a bag of wealth, none has yet been seen.

I have purposely chosen to present the 'inferred' translation as it is closer to the true meaning
understood from the original Kabir verse in Hindi.

Kabir Dohas - 27

Aasa Jive Jag Marey, Log Marey Mar Jayee

Soyee Sube Dhan Sanchate, So Ubrey Jey Khayee

Translation
Hope lives in a dying world, people die and
die again
Perish yet hoarding wealth, spend and
freedom attain
   
My Understanding
Having explained in theprevious Doha that
we should save the wealth that will be
helpful now and beyond, Kabir now makes us take a step forward towards the principle of non-
attachment through this Doha.

In this eternally changing and perishable world, Kabir explains that only those who distribute
and share thewealth are the ones who attain liberation. Who are they that share? Those who
have abundance. And, abundance comes to those who understand the doctrine of Karma and
are non-attached to the results.

Kabir Dohas - 28

Ek Kahun To Hai Nahin, Do Kahun To Gaari 

Hai Jaisa Taisa Rahe, Kahe Kabir Bichari  

Translation
If I say one, It is not
If I say two, it will be a violation
Let 'It' be what 'It' is
says Kabir upon contemplation
   
Explanation
This Doha is an illustration of Kabir mysticism
that parallels the Zen Koans. 

Kabir here is alluding to the futility of describing

the cosmic experience. In that vein, he
underscores the limited vision of both
the Advaitic (one God) andDvaitic (God is
separate from the devotee) schools of thought.
He says that the final experience is what it is
and cannot be cast into any thought, words or
description. A first-hand direct experience is the
only way of knowing. And when that happens all
else becomes literally irrelevant.

Many people ask why did the tragedy of

September 11 have to happen? Many spiritual
leaders have given a variety of explanations.
Could it be that the answer is not an explanation
but a feeling, not discussion or analysis but
silence, not extroversion but an introversive
acceptance?

Kabir Dohas - 29

Kabir Yeh Ghar Prem Ka, Khala Ka Ghar Nahin

Sees Utaare Hath Kar, So Pasey Ghar Mahin 

Translation
Kabir, this is the abode of love
Not the house of an aunt
Only that one can enter here
Who has relinquished all pride 
   
My Understanding
Kabir in this doha attempts to explain valor and fearlessness in love and devotion. A person who
is able to defeat the passions of Anger, Carnality, Attachment, Greed and Enmity – the enemies
within – is the valiant one.  To be a lover or a true devotee is the job of a warrior and not of a
coward. For love demands complete surrender of one's ego and a spirit full of compassion and
poise. 

The abode of love is not like a visit to an aunt's house where the social rules of entertaining
guests may be available. Instead in this abode of love one enters with the spirit of giving or
complete surrender.

Is a genuine offering to the Lord possible without surrendering oneself? Similarly, is love
possible between two people when it is based on conditions?

Translate and meditate.

Kabir Dohas - 30

Maala To Kar Mein Phire, Jeebh Phire Mukh Mahin 

Manua To Chahun Dish Phire, Yeh To Simran Nahin

Translation
The rosary rotating by the hand (or) the tongue twisting in the mouth, 
With the mind wandering everywhere, this isn't meditation (Oh uncouth!). 
   
My Understanding
Kabir in this doha strongly condemns those
faking to be religious and spiritualists. How very
often we see people belonging from almost
every religion 'fiddling' with the rosary beads
and reciting the name of God. Yet at the
slightest provocation they swear and curse,
without any hesitation, with the same 'twisting'
tongue. Kabir, here categorically points out that
such people have no control over their mind
which is forever wandering. Such people are
hypocrites and deluded, for their actions are
only outwardly to show off or to keep up with the
rituals out of sectarian and communal
pressures. To be able to bring mind in control
means to develop poise and serenity that in turn
lead to love and compassion which are the
prerequisites for meditation. An agitated mind
cannot meditate!  Kabir emphatically states in this doha that all these superficial ritualistic
actions are meaningless and unproductive. 

The aim of true meditation, Kabir tries to emphasize, is to be able to master one's mind. 

Kabir Dohas - 31

Maala Pherat Jug Bhaya, Mita Na Man Ka Pher 

Kar Ka Manka Chhor De, Man Ka Manka Pher

Translation
Eons have passed whirling rosary, restless remains the mind  
Give up the beads of rosary and rotate the beads of mind
   
My Understanding
This doha is an extension of the previous one. Kabir in this doha explains that the purpose of
using rosary is not the end but a medium which is helpful in meditation. The aim of all
meditations is to calm the mind and become its master. The rosary is but a mere tool.

Having explained this Kabir proceeds to state that although many epochs have elapsed since
the human civilization started using the rosary as a tool, yet we see that by and large our mind
is restless and agitated while the tool appears to have become a symbol in itself.  Addressing
the spiritual aspirants, Kabir asserts that instead of concentrating on the rosary beads and its
count of rotation, one should focus and become aware of  the wandering mind. For only by
becoming aware shall we become alert and be able to guide ourselves towards poise and
serenity. This is the ultimate aim of meditation – to become calm and experience the oneness
between our individual self and the cosmic self.

Kabir Dohas - 32

Kabir Maala Kaath Kee, Kahi Samjhave Tohi 

Man Na Firave Aapna, Kaha Firave Mohi

Translation
Kabir, the rosary made of wooden beads explicitly proceeds to educate
(If) you set not your mind in (a focused) motion, (then) to what end you rotate
   
My Understanding
Having talked about the rosary in the earlier dohas (# 30 and # 31) Kabir now goes a step
further in giving a new dimension to the purpose and usefulness of the rosary. In this doha,
Kabir using a metaphor – where he equates the rosary to a teacher  – candidly advises the 
aspirants to focus on directing the mind towards their spiritual goal. Kabir asserts that mere
rotation of the rosary is useless and futile with a wandering mind.

Kabir Dohas - 33
Jab Mein Tha Tab Hari Nahin‚ Jab Hari Hai Mein Nahin 
Sab Andhiyara Mit Gaya‚ Jab Deepak Dekhya Mahin

Translation
When "I" was then Hari was not, Now Hari "is" and "I" am not
All the darkness (illusions) mitigated, When I saw the light (illumination) within. 
   
My Understanding
From the root word "Har" (everything) is derived the word "Hari" which is used as yet another
name or expression for God – the most common being "Hari Om".  In this doha, Kabir explains
that till such time we are engrossed within the bounds of our (limited) ego – the mundane "I" – 
we are not able to experience or realize the all-pervasive attribute of God. Resultantly we are in
a state of conflict, chaos and a state of ignorance aptly expressed as darkness or illusion in the
doha. Thisdarkness – the state of ignorance – diminishes, rather eliminates, when the all-
pervasive effulgence of God (the light within) is perceived, realized or experienced. With this
conviction we are able to transcend the bondage enforced by our ego.

In the same thought Guru Nanak in his Japuji Sahib, Pauri # 5 onwards, reminds

Guran Ek Deh Bujhai

Sabna Jiyan Ka Eko Dããta, 
So Mein Visar Na Jayee 

Kabir Dohas - 34

Moond Munddavat Din Gaye‚ Ajhun Na Miliya Raam

Raam Naam Kahu Kya Karey‚ Je Man Ke Aurey Kaam

Translation
Ages have passed shaving the head, yet union with Ram is not here
Recitation of Ram Naam is futile, when mind is engaged elsewhere

My Understanding
In the earlier dohas (# 30, 31 and 32) Kabir explained the redundancy of the ritualistic 'fiddling'
of the rosary. He now exposes those who are merely gripped in the rituals of shaving their
heads periodically and reciting Ram Naam while their mind is busy wandering. Kabir
emphatically condemns these rituals and considers them a mere pretense. If one is merely
masked and engrossed in outwardly show-offs or trapped in sectarian and communal rituals,
one is only leading a life of delusion and self-deception. Kabir emphasizes the importance and
need of mastering one's mind to develop peace and poise, love and compassion as these are
the essential ingredients towards leading a harmonious life and self-realization.

Kabir Dohas - 35

Keson Kaha Bigadia, Je Moonde Sau Baar

Man Ko Kahe Na Moondiye, Jaamein Vishey Vikaar
Translation
What harm have the hair done, you shave them hundred times  
Why not shave the mind, that's filled with poisonous thoughts   

My Understanding
In the Hindu culture there is a tradition among men to get their heads shaved off in the event of
parental death. There seems to be no scientific reason for this tradition except what I believe is
that in folklore it is symbolic of a person in grief who has lost an elder, particularly one of the
parent, in the family. The recent example is when thousands of people got their heads shaved in
Nepal when the King Birendra was assassinated – in this the King symbolized as the "Father" of
the nation.  Besides, when men make vows seeking fulfillment of their desire, they will get their
head shaved. Symbolically it means surrendering of one's ego (Head representing the center of
Ego) to God.  Then we have cultists like Hare Krishna movement, where the followers also keep
their head shaved all the time. Similarly the Hindu pundits and priestly class also keep their
heads shaved in conformity of the latter explanation of the symbolic surrender of one's ego.
Incidentally the tradition of shaving the heads is only among men and not among women. I
wonder why!

Kabir, however, considered this also to be a mere ritual notwithstanding the symbolic meaning
of shaving the head, as explained above. His criticism on the ritual of shaving heads highlights
the fact that by mere shaving of the head (or merely being a ritualistic) one cannot attain self
realization or discover the divinity within.

Continuing on the preceding doha, Kabir emphasizes that unless one cleanse one's mind from
the quagmire of unhealthy, unclean and poisonous thoughts that are harmful individually and
collectively, until then one is not free from delusion and self-deception. Mind being the source of
all problems, it is in every individual's interest to keep it filled with healthy, harmonious and
loving thoughts. 

Kabir Dohas - 36

Kabir Soota Kya Kare, Koore Kaaj Niwaar 

Jis Panthu Tu Chaalna, Soyee Panth Samwaar

Translation
Arise from slumber O Kabir, divest yourself of the rubbish deeds 
Be focused and illumine the path on which you were meant to tread

My Understanding
Here slumber refers to a state of daze and fixation on what is perceived by the senses. Sleep is
no different from the normal waking state in that it engages our senses completely. Both are
essentially of the same intrinsic nature where Mind is the central player. Kabir recognizes the
futility of mental and physical worlds and categorizes everything in these domains as "rubbish".
He then urges us to focus ourselves on finding our true spiritual root - putting an end to the
cyclical realities that have kept us engaged thus far.

Kabir Dohas - 37
Kabira Teri Jhompri Gal Katiyan Ke Paas
Jo Karenge So Bharenge Tu Kyon Bhayo Udaas

Translation
O Kabir! Your Hut Is Next to the Butchers’ Bay 
Why Do You Feel Down? For Their Conduct They Only Shall Pay  

My Understanding
At the time when Kabir lived there was a lot of importance
attached, in religion, to ritualism. Religious heads and puritans
aggressively promoted the ideas of purity and righteousness.
Kabir was largely unimpressed and irreverent to these external
rules and regulations. Through his life and teachings he
emphasized the importance of internal purity.

Being a weaver of lower caste, Kabir lived in an area close to

the butcher's shop. Kabir gave his religious teachings sitting in
what the "pundits" (of higher caste) considered an "unholy"
place; for which they criticized him. Kabir, while not countering
the criticism directly, via this Doha, took the discussion on this
matter to a totally different level. In his humble way, Kabir
teaches us here the idea of detachment. In spiritual texts this concept is likened to the existence
of the Lotus - a beautiful flower that grows in swampy and dirty ponds and rises above it.

Here Kabir tells us to live in the world and focus on our own journey and not worry about the
good, bad or ugly going on around us. According to him the world and its ways will take care of
itself, that's not our job - we should focus our attention only on the real reason of coming to the
world, to find out who we truly are. All else does not matter. 

Kabir Dohas - 38

Kabir Soyee Soorma, Man Soon Maande Jhoojh

Panch Pyada Paari Le, Door Kare Sab Dooj

Translation
O Kabir, He alone's the Warrior ,who takes on the "mind" head-on
Crushing the shield of the sensual five, all duality is gone

My Understanding
In the time period Kabir lived there were lot of wars and fighting
taking around. Instead of this fighting and killing outside, Kabir
redirects our attention to waging a war inside of us via this
verse. The mind is the root of all our troubles. This mind is what
creates a myriad of thoughts that drive us everywhere and do
not allow us to rest in peace. Thoughts are instigated, fed and
driven by our five sensual desires - Lust, Anger, Intoxication
with Pride, Attachment and Greed. He calls these as pawns
because they are protecting the true enemy that lies behind -
The Mind. Here the game is won only when we go beyond the
sensual (pawn-like) pleasures and conquer the Mind who has been running the show. Kabir
then tells us that removing the mind takes away the root of all misery which is the feeling of the
"other". There is no "other" anymore as this distinction comes via a creation of our mind. Once
the mind is gone there is nobody else except us ourselves. This feeling of oneness is captured
in a verse from a poem:

Na Hai Koi Gadi Na Hai Sawari

Pahuncha Wahan Jahan Mein Akela Hi Khiladi

Neither is their a vehicle nor a rider, I have reached a place where I alone am the Only Player.

Kabir urges us to duel the dual - the highest teaching from him summarized in such a beautiful
way. Vintage Kabir!