Sant Kabir is for all

Economic Times

30-06-2025

'Kabira teri jhopadi gal katiyan ke pass/ jo karenge so bharenge/ tu kyun bhaye udas,' thus spoke Sant Kabir, the mystic saint-poet, a significant figure of the Bhakti movement. His words still resonate, offering solace to tormented souls - to those who struggle to endure injustices faced by animals, women and children caught in conflict zones.
With the utter simplicity of his verses composed in a blend of regional and colloquial languages, Kabir was an unsparing critic of the caste system and religious hypocrisy. His universal faith, rooted in love and devotion, challenged rigid social structures and meaningless rituals. He advocated mutual understanding between all faiths and emphasised presence of the Divine within.
Kabir is an unusual name that means 'Great' - it is a sign of the eternal presence of God in man. Kabir did not identify himself with either Muslims or Hindus. His was a quest for the formless, without attributes, who transcends time, space and cause. Sufis included him in their teachings, and Hindus in bhakti tradition. He believed that wisdom can be achieved through the power of love - 'Dhai akhar prem ka, padhe so pandit hoi.'
His philosophy left no space for pride or arrogance, reminding all of the inevitable end that awaits every being: 'Kabira garv na kijiye, kaal gahe kar kes, Na jaane kahan marenge, ghar ke bheetar des' - 'Kabir, be not proud, time will seize you by the hair; you know not where you will die, whether at home or in a foreign land. Kabir remains an apostle of faith, promoting social equality and spiritual wisdom - which remain overwhelmingly relevant even today.