Songs of Sufi Kabir

Kabir’s Love and Mystic Songs

Hindi Verse and Translation

SAMAJH

Samajh Dekh Man Meet Piyarva,
Aashiq Ho Kar Sona Kya Re?
Paya Ho To Den Le Pyare,
Paye Paye Fir Khona Kya Re?
Rookha Sookha Gumka Tukra,
Feeka Aur Salona Kya Re?
Jab Ankhiyan Me Neend Ghaneri,
Takiya Aur Bichona Kya Re?
Kahet Kabir Prem Ka Marag,
Sir Dena To Rona Kya Re?

Translation : Understand

Understand perceive O beloved mind
How can you slumber and be a Lover?
Having received then share it all
Or would you rather lose it possessing?
If crumbs be all that you have to fare
Does it matter if it is salt less or tasty?
When eyes are loaded with deep sleep
What is then the pillow and bedding?
Says Kabir, such is the path of Love
Why lose heart having committed yourself?

BAALAM AVO

Baalam Avo Humre Geh Re,
Tum Bin Dukhiya Deh Re
Sab Koi Kahet Tumhari Nari,
Mo Ko Eehe Andeh Re
Dil Se Nahin Dil Lagayo,
Tub Laga Kaisa Sneh Re
Ek mek Ve Sej Na Soyo,
Tub Lug Kaisa Neh Re
Anna Na Bhave Neend Na Aave,
Ghar Bar Dhare Na Dheer Re
Kamin Hai Balam Pyara,
Jyon Pyase Ko Neer Re
Hai Koi Aisa Upkari,
Piv Se Kahun Sunaye Re
Ab To Behal Kabir Bhayo Hai,
Bin Dekhe Jiya Jaye Re

Translation: My Love Come

O my Love! come to my house
My body is in intense pain
While all say I am your spouse
I have the very doubts
So long your heart isn’t immersed in mine
What kind of love is that
I don’t relish food neither do I sleep
I feel discontent in my own home
Passionate is my Love
Like the thirsty longs for water
Will someone do me a favor
And narrate my predicament to my beloved
Kabir is now in total distress
Without seeing the beloved, he is going to die

Sayeen Bin

Sayeen Bin Darad Karejae Hoye
Din Nahin Chain Raat Nahin Nindia,
Kase Kahun Dukh Hoye!
Aadhi Ratia Pichle Paharva,
Sayeen Bin Taras Rahi Soye
Kahat Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho,
Sayeen Mile Sukh Hoye

Translation: Without My Love

Without the beloved, the heart just aches
Distraught during days, sleepless in nights
To who shall I narrate my empty plight!
In the middle of night, the hours of ambrosia
I sleep but with a yearning heart
Says Kabir – listen my friends
I shall rejoice, meeting Love alone.

Supne Mein

Supne Mein Sayeen Mile 
Sovat Liya Lagaye
Aankh Na Khoolun Darpatta,
Mat Sapna Hai Jaye
Sayeen Mera Bahut Gun,
Likhe Jo Hirde Mahin
Piyoon Na Pani Darpatta,
Mat Veh Dhoye Jahin
Naina Bheeter Aav Tu,
Nain Jhaamp Tohe Layoon
Na Mein Dekhun Aur Ko,
Na Tehi Dekhan Deyoon

Translation: Dreaming

In dream came my consort, in sleep I made contact
Scared I open not my eyes, lest the dream gets lost
Wise is my consort, writes so in my heart
Fearful, I drink not, lest the message gets washed
Enter in my eyes, I may absorb you with eyelids dropped
Neither shall I see anyone, nor let you see anyone else.

Aayee Na

Aayee Na Sakun Tujhpe, 
Sakun Na Tujhe Bulai
Jiyara Yonhi Lehunge,
Birha Tapayee Tapayee
Yeh Tan Jalun Rakh Karun,
Jyon Dhuan Jayee Sarggi
Matti Te Ram Daya Karen,
Barsi Bujhave Aaggi
Yeh Tan Jalun Massi Karun,
Likhon Ram Ka Naam
Likhni Karun Karank Ki,
Likh Likh Ram Pathaon
Is Tan Ka Deeva Karun,
Baati Melun Jiv
Lohi Seenche Tel Jyon,
Kab Mukh Dekhun Pi
Ke Birhan Kun Meech De,
Ke Aap Dikhlayee
Aath Paher Ka Dujhna,
Mo Pe Sahya Na Jayee

Translation: Can’t Come

Unable to come to you, and helpless to invite
The heart remains lonely, separation makes me burn
Shall burn the body to ash, like smoke soar above
May RAM bless the mind, His grace extinguish the flame
Shall burn the body to make ink, I write the Name of RAM
Write I shall with bones as pen, and send messages to Him
Shall make the body a lamp, the wick being my life
My blood fueling the lamp aglow, I shall see the face of Love
Either destroy this loneliness, or show me your Self
This unceasing separation, I cannot endure myself

Kab Dekhungi Tohi

Hey Baliyan Kab Dekhungi Tohi
Aahnis Aatur Darsni Karni,
Aaisa Vyape Mohi
Nain Hamare Tumko Chahen,
Ratti Na Mane Hari
Birha Agini Tan Adhik Jarave,
Aaisa Lehu Vichari
Sunhun Hamari Daad Gusayeen,
Aab Jan Marahun Vadheer
Tum Dheeraj Mein Aatur Swami,
Kanche Bhande Neer
Bahut Dinun Ke Bichre Madho,
Man Nahin Bandhe Dheer
Deh Chaanta Tum Milhun Kirpa Kari,
Aartibant Kabir

Translation: When Will I see You

When shall I see you again my Love?
Anxious I am to behold you
Distraught are my day and night
My eyes only crave for you
without admittance of any defeat
With the pangs of separation my body is on fire
Just perceive my predicament like that
O Lord listen to my prayers
Be not unkind to me anymore
You are Composure I am anxious O Lord
Akin to a pot that cannot contain water
Madho *, since long we have been separated
Now the mind is restless for reunion
Beckon me so may I shall meet
Kabir prays earnestly with this entreat.

*another name of Lord Krishna

 

Naina Untari

Naina Untari Aav Tun,
Jyon Hon Nain Jhapeun
Na Hon Dekhun Aur Kun,
Na Tum Dekhan Deun
Kabir Rekh Sindoor Ki,
Kajar Diya Na Jayee
Nainoo Ramayaa Rami Rahiya,
Dooja Kahan Samayee
Man Parteet Na Prem Rus,
Na It Tan Mein Dhung
Kya Jane Oos Peevsun,
Kaise Rehsi Rung

Translation: My Sight

O Love come but once within my sight,
Instantly I shall capture by dropping the eyelids
I shall not see anyone else anymore,
Nor shall I let you behold another
Says Kabir, in the parting line of a woman’s hair,
Kajal cannot be applied
Same way, once the Lord occupies my eyes,
How can another find abode there?
My mind lacks faith and Love is not so deep,
Nor my body knows the the creative ways
I wonder when I do meet the beloved
How he shall react to me !

Ka Se Bujhon

Mein Ka Se Bujhon,
Aapne Piya Ki Baat Ri
Jaan Sujaan Pranpriya Priya Bin,
Sabe Bataun Jaat Ri
Aasa Nadi Agadh Kumati Bahe,
Roki Kahu Pe Na Jaat Ri
Kam Krodh Dou Bhaye Karare,
Padhen Bisaye Rus Maat Ri
Je Panche Aapmaan Ke Sungi,
Sumiran Ko Alsaat Ri
Kahe Kabir Bichuri Nahin Milihe,
Jyon Taruvar Bin Paat Ri

Translation: Who Shall I Listen

Whom shall I inquire, the riddle about my Love ?
Life is lifeless without beloved, I go and tell this to all
In the river of hope thrive crooked desires,
None can stop this reckless flow
Both Passion and anger, are battling their strength
To plunge me in the vicious quagmire
Defamation comes with the company of the Five*
Lethargy takes over and devotion is lost
Says Kabir, once split do not unite
Like a leaf fallen from the tree.

Panch – Five – Passion, Anger, Greed, Attachment and Ego – The elements that lead to Selfishness and Possessiveness

 

Ankhiyan

Ankhiyan To Chhayee Pari,
Panth Nihari Nihari
Jihadiyan Chhaala Parya,
Naam Pukari Pukari
Birha Kamandal Kar Liye,
Bairagi Do Nain
Mange Daras Madhukari,
Chhake Rahe Din Rain
Sub Rung Tanti Rabaab Tan,
Birha Bajave Nit
Aur Na Koyee Sun Sake,
Kea Sayeen Ke Chit

Translation: Eyes

My eyes have developed black spots
Watching the path whence you may come
Blistered has become my tongue
chanting away your name
Separation pangs fill my begging bowl
Void is all in the two eyes
Anxious for only a glimpse delight
Waiting patiently day and night
All colors mitigate and moan
Discontent is the painful song
None else can hear this cry
Unless you, my Love, will

Gaawo Moree Sajanee

Aananda Mangal Gaawo Moree Sajanee
Bhayo Prabhata Beeta Gayee Rajanee
Udhara Nirantara Phulee Phulawaaree
Tahaa Meree Mansa Kare Rakhawaree
Varashi Naam Amee Phal Laagee
Peewege Koi Santa Swabhaage
Kahet Kabir Goonge Kee Sainaa
Satguru Shabda Parakh Kara Nainaa

Translation: Sing My love

O beloved, let us sing together the song of joy, for the night has gone and dawn has come once again. Everywhere, within and without, the beautiful gardens blossom with fragrant flowers. In every place my steadfast mind is taking care. There is no fear of the darkness, so lets sing the song of joy in the enchanting garden. The blissful showers of the true name sprinkle the fruitful trees. So bountiful are the fruits of nectar, yet only the fortunate few will taste this heavenly juice. Let us sing this song of joy together, beholding the Satguru Shabda. The eyes are stunned and the organ of speech is mute. Satguru Kabir Sahib says, only signs and gestures can feebly express the glory. Let us sing the song of joy together.

Naiharva

Naiharva Hum Ka Na Bhave
Sai Ki Nagri Param Ati Sundar,
Jahan Koi Jav Na Avey
Chand Suraj Jahan, Pavan Na Pani,
Ko Sundesh Pahunchave
Dard Yeh Sai Ko Sunave
Agey Chalo Panth Nahin Sujhe,
Peeche Dosh Lagawe
Kehi Bidhi Sasure Jau Mori Sajani,
Virha Jor Jarawe
Vishai Ras Nach Nachawe
Bin Satguru Apno Nahin Koi,
Jo Yeh Rah Batawe
Kahat Kabira Suno Bhai Sadho,
Supne Na Pitam Awey
Tapan Yeh Jiya Ki Bujhawey 

Translation: My Home

I Don’t Find any Interest in My Parent’s House
My Beloved’s Town is Most Beautiful
However, Nobody Goes or Comes from There
There is no Moon, Sun, Wind or Water There
Then Who Will Take My Message There?
Then Who Will Tell My Pain to My Beloved?

There is No Visible Path to Move Forward
And You Blame the Past for It
How Should the Bride go to the House of the Beloved?
Powerful Pangs of Separation are Burning from Inside
Dual Reality is Fashioning a Dance to Its Tune

There is None Other Than the Guru Who is Mine Who Can Tell the Way
Says Kabir Listen oh Aspirant
Your Beloved Will Come in a Dream-like State
That Alone Will Quench the Thirst of your Heart

Tun Mun Dhan

Tun Mun Dhan Baaji Laage Ho
Chaupar Khel Peev Se Re
Tun Mun Baaji Lagaya
Haari To Piya Ki Bhayee Re
Jeeti To  Piya More Ho
Mansa Vaacha Karmana
Koyee Preeti Nibaho Aur Ho
Chausariya Ke Khel Mein Re
Jugam Milan Ki Aas
Nurd Akeli Reh Gayee Re
Nahin Jivan Ki Aas Ho
Chari Baran Ghar Ek Hai Re
Bhanti Bhanti Ke Log
Lakh Chaurasi Bharmat Bharmat
Pau Pe Atki Aaye
Jo Aab Ke Pau Na Pari Re
Fir Chaurasi Jaye Ho
Kahen Kabir Dharmadaas Se
Jeeti Baaji Mat Haar
Aab Ke Surat Charaye De Re
Suhagin Naar Ho

Translation: Body, Mind, Wealth

Body, Mind, Wealth are all at sake
To play the game of dice with my love
I have staked my all
My Love wins me if I lose
If I win, He becomes mine
Let others express their love
By mind, word or deed!
In the game of dice
The hope of ‘union’ is always there
Except when the last draught fails
To enter the home square.
All the four-sided squares have but one ‘home’
Only the players vary
Passing through many squares
Facing impediment at the critical stage
If the dice is not played correctly
Recurrence of moving from square to square
Becomes inevitable.
Says Kabir
Use intelligence and diligence now
Do not lose the prospective victory.

Meri Chunri

Meri Chunri Mein Parigayo Daag Piya  

Panch Tat Ki Bani Chunariya
Sorah So Baid Laag Kiya
Yeh Chunri Mere Maike Te Aayee
Sasure Mein Manva Khoye Diya
Mal Mal Dhoye Daag Na Chhute
Gyan Ka Sabun Laye Piya
Kahat Kabir Daag Tab Chhuti Hai
Jab Sahib Apnaye Liya

Translation: My Veil

My Love, my Veil is stained

Made from the elements five
Absorbed in sixteen hundred sensory traps*
The Veil that came from my parental home
Lost its luster in my in-laws house
I wash it over and over, yet the stain goes not
My Love, bring the soap of knowledge
Says Kabir
These stains will eventually leave
When my Love will make me his own.

 

Rangrej

Sahib Hai Rangrej
Chunri Mori Rang Daari 

Syaahi Rang Churaye ke re
Diyo Majitha Rang
Dhoye Se Chhute Nahin Re
Din Din Hote Surang
Bhav Ke Kundi Neh Ke Jal Mein
Prem Rang Dayee Bore
Dukh Deh Mael Lutaye De Re
Khoob Rangi JhakJhore
Sahib Ne Chunri Rangi Re
Preetam Chatur Sujaan
Sab Kutch Un Par Vaar Dun Re
Tan Man Dhan Aur Pran
Kahat Kabir Rangrej Piyare
Mujh Par Huye Dayal
Seetal Chunri Orike Re
Bhayee Haun Magan Nihaal 

Translation: King of Colours

The Master is the King of Colours, He has colored my veil

Removing the dark stains, he gave that color of love
By washing which fades not but becomes brighter by the day
Using water of affection in the tub of feelings, He poured the color of love
Rinsing away the bodily sorrows and dirt, the Expert dyed it deftly
The Master who dyed the veil is expert, beloved and great
I surrender everything to Him – Body, Mind, Wealth and Life
Says Kabir, The Beloved Dyer is benevolent on me
Covered with this cool veil, My being is blissfully fulfilled.

 

Moko Kahan Dhundhere

Moko Kahan Dhundhere Bande
Mein To Tere Paas Mein
Na Teerath Mein, Na Moorat Mein
Na Ekant Niwas Mein
Na Mandir Mein, Na Masjid Mein
Na Kabe Kailas Mein
Mein To Tere Paas Mein Bande
Mein To Tere Paas Mein
Na Mein Jap Mein, Na Mein Tap Mein
Na Mein Barat Upaas Mein
Na Mein Kiriya Karm Mein Rehta
Nahin Jog Sanyas Mein
Nahin Pran Mein Nahin Pind Mein
Na Brahmand Akas Mein
Na Mein Prakuti Prawar Gufa Mein
Nahin Swasan Ki Swans Mein
Khoji Hoye Turat Mil Jaoon
Ik Pal Ki Talas Mein
Kahet  Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho
Mein To Hun Viswas Mein

Translation: Where Do You Seek Me?

Where do you search me?
I am with you
Not in pilgrimage, nor in icons
Neither in solitudes
Not in temples, nor in mosques
Neither in Kaba nor in Kailash
I am with you o man
I am with you
Not in prayers, nor in meditation
Neither in fasting
Not in yogic exercises
Neither in renunciation
Neither in the vital force nor in the body
Not even in the ethereal space
Neither in the womb of Nature
Not in the breath of the breath
Seek earnestly and discover
In but a moment of search
Says Kabir, Listen with care
Where your faith is, I am there.

Deh Dhare

Deh Dhare Ka Dand Hai, 
Sab Kahu Ko Hoye
Gyani Bhugte Gyan Se,
Moorakh Bhugte Roye
Kabira Mein To Tab Daron,
Jo Mohi Ko Hoye
Meech Budhapa Aapda,
Sab Kahu Ko Hoye
Bande Kyon Karni Kare,
Kyon Kare Pachitaye
Boye Ped Babool Ke,
Aam Kahan Se Khaye

Translation: Embodiment

Penalty of embodiment, transpires to all
Learned deals with knowledge, ignorant with moans
Says Kabir I would then fear, if it happened only to me
Death, old age and perils, is a must for all
O man, why do you act, why regret the done deed
Having sown Babool , Mango, how can you eat

Man Mastt Hua

Man Mustt Hua Tab Kyon Bole
Hira Paya Ganth Ganthiyayo,
Bar Bar Wahko Kyon khole
Halki Thi Jab Chari Tarazu,
Poori Bhayee Tab Kyon Tole
Surat Kalari Bhayee Matwari,
Madwa Pe Gayee Bin Tole
Hansa Paye Mansarover,
Tal Taliya Kyon Dole
Tera Sahib Hai Ghat Mahin,
Bahar Naina Kyon Khole
Kahat Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho,
Sahib Mil Gaye Til Ole

Translation: Crazy Mind

With mind Crazy in Love, why should I talk?
Having the diamond knotted safe, why again I open the knot?
Empty scales at initiation are full, why measure again?
Rationality became intoxicated, by drinking without measures
Swan reaching the lake, need wander in ponds and puddles?
Your Lord is your inner Self, why seek him outwardly
Says Kabir listen my folks, I realized the Lord within
– like oil contained in the seed.

Jo Dise

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

Translation: What is Seen

What is seen does not exist
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

Kya Mangoon

Kya Mangoon Kutch Thir Na Rahyee
Dekhat Nayan Jalya Jag Jayee
Ik Lakh Poot Sava Lakh Naati
Ta Ravan Dhari Diya Na Baati
Lanka So Kot Samad Si Khayee
Ta Ravan Ka Khabar Na Paayee
Aavat Sang Na Javat Sangati
Kaha Bhayo Dar Bandhe Hathi
Kahat Kabir Unt Ki Baari
Jhari Jaise Chale Juwari

Translation: What Shall I Ask?

What should I ask when nothing is stable
Before my eyes the universe is in flames
With a hundred thousand children and grandchildren to boot
None in the end to show Ravan the path with a Lamp
His kingdom Lanka secured by the sea
Yet none in the end could trace Ravan*
None came along none accompanied departure
What happened to the elephants at the door?
Says Kabir, in the end
Departure is but with empty hands
Like a loser gambler

* Ravan – mythological king of Lanka who was killed by Ram in the battle.

Yugan Hum Yogi

Avadhuta Yugan Yugan Hum Yogi 
Avayna Jay Mitaina Kabahun,
Sabad Anahat Bhogi
Subhi Thor Jamat Humri,
Sub Hi Thor Pur Mela
Hum Sub May, Sub Hai Hum May,
Hum Hai Bahuri Akela
Hum Hi Sidh, Samadhi Hum Hi,
Hum Mauni Hum Bole
Rup Swarup Arup Dikhake,
Hum Hi Mein Hum Toh Khelen
Kahe Kabira Jo, Suno Bhai Sadho,
Nahi Na Koi Icha
Apni Madhi Mein Aap Mein Dolu,
Kheloon Sahaj Swa-Icha 

Translation: I am Yogi For Eons

Oh unattached being I am a yogi from many a eons
I don’t come or go nor do I get erased
I relish and enjoy the un-struck Anahat Shabad
In every direction I see only a collection and carnival of me
I am in everybody and everybody is in me. I am utterly alone
I am the Siddha , I am the Samadhi
I am the one who remains silent, I am the one who speaks
The form is my own form manifesting the formless
I am the one who plays with himself
Kabir says, listen oh Sadhu, there is no desire anymore
I am floating in myself in my own little hut playing effortlessly by own desire

Ghar Sabse Nyara

Sakhiya Wah Ghar Sabse Nyara,
Jaha Puran Purush Humara
Jaha Nahi Sukh Dukh
Sanch Jhuth Nahi
Pap Na Pun Pasara
Nahin Din Reyn Chand Nahi Suraj,
Bina Jyoti Ujyara

Nahin Tahan Gyan Dhyan
Nahin Jap Tap
Ved Kiteb Na Bani
Karni Dharni Rehni Gehni,
Yeh Sub Jahan Hirani

Ghar Nahin Aghar Na Bahar Bhitar,
Pind Brahmand Kachu Nahin
Panch Tatva Gun Tin Nahin Tahan,
Sakhi Shabd Na Tahin

Mul Na Phul Beli Nahin Bija,
Bina Braksh Phal Sohe,
Oham Soham Ardh Urdh Nahin,
Swasa Lekhan Kou Hai

Jahan Purush Tahwan Kachu Nahin,
Kahe Kabir Hum Jana
Humri Sain Lakhe Jo Koi,
Pawe Pad Nirvana

Translation: House Most Beutiful

Oh Companion That House Is Unmatched,
Where My Complete Beloved Is.

In that Place There Is No Happiness or Unhappiness,
No Truth or Untruth
Neither Sin Nor Virtue.
There Is No Day or Night, No Moon or Sun,
There Is Radiance Without Light.

There Is No Knowledge or Meditation
No Repetition of Mantra or Austerities,
Neither Speech Coming From Vedas or Books.
Doing, Not-Doing, Holding, Leaving
All These Are All Lost Too In This Place.

No Home, No Homeless, Neither Outside or Inside,
Micro and Macrocosm Are Non-Existent.
Five Elemental Constituents and the Trinity Are Both Not There
Witnessing Un-struck Shabad Sound is Also Not There.

No Root or Flower, Neither Branch or Seed,
Without a Tree Fruits are Adorning,
Primordial Om Sound, Breath-Synchronized Soham ,
This and That – All Are Absent, The Breath Too Unknown

Where the Beloved Is There is Utterly Nothing
Says Kabir I Have Come To Realize.
Whoever Sees My Indicative Sign
Will Accomplish the Goal of Liberation.

Kaun Thagwa

Kaun Thagwa Nagariya Lutal Ho 

Chandan Kaath Ke Banal Khatola,
Tapar Dulihan Sutal Ho
Utho Sakhiri Maang Sawaro,
Dulha Mosey Ruthal Ho
Aye Jamraja Palang Chadi Baitha,
Nainan Ansuwan Tutal Ho
Char Jane Mil Khath Uthain,
Chahun Disi Dhu Dhu Uthal Ho
Kehat Kabira Suno Bhai Sadho,
Jug Se Nata Chutal Ho

Translation: Which Thug?

Which Thug Is Robbing The Town?

A Small Cot Is Made Of Sandalwood,
On Which The Bride Is Sleeping
Get Up Beloved Companion
Adorn Me With Bridal Makeup,
The Groom Is Upset With Me
Yamaraj , The Lord of Death, Is Sitting On The Bed,
Eyes Are Filled With Tears
Four People Pick Up The Cot,
Sounds of The Flaring Flames Come From All Four Directions
Says Kabira Listen Oh Sadhu,
The Relationship With The World Comes To An End

Murdon Ka Gaon

Sadho Ye Murdon Ka Gaon
Peer Mare, Pygambar Mari Hain
Mari Hain Zinda Jogi
Raja Mari Hain, Parja Mari Hain
Mari Hain Baid Aur Rogi
Chanda Mari Hain, Suraj Mari Hain
Mari Hain Dharni Akasa
Chaudan Bhuvan Ke Chaudhry Mari Hain
In Hun Ki Ka Asa
Nauhun Mari Hain, Dus Hun Mari Hain
Mari Hain Sahaj Athasi
Tethis Koti Devata Mari Hain
Badi Kaal Ki Bazi
Naam Anam Anant Rehat Hai
Duja Tatva Na Hoi
Kahe Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho
Bhatak Maro Mat Koi 

Translation: Village of the Dead

Oh Sadhu This is the Village of the Dead

The Saints Have Died, The God-Messengers Die
The Life-Filled Yogis Die Too
The Kings Die, The Subjects Die
The Healers and the Sick Die Too
The Moon Dies, The Sun Dies
The Earth and Sky Die Too
Even the Caretakers of the Fourteen Worlds Die
Why Hope For Any of These
The Nine Die, The Ten Die
The Eighty Eight Die Easily Too
The Thirty Three Crore Devatas (Enlightened Beings) Die
It’s a Big Game of Time
The Un-Named Naam Lives Without Any End
There is No Other Truth
Says Kabir Listen Oh Sadhu
Don’t Get Lost and Die

Ud Jaye Akela

Ud Jayega Huns Akela,
Jug Darshan Ka Mela
Jaise Paat Gire Taruvar Se,
Milna Bahut Duhela
Naa Jane Kidhar Girega,
Lageya Pawan Ka Rela
Jub Howe Umur Puri,
Jab Chute Ga Hukum Huzuri
Jum Ke Doot Bade Mazboot,
Jum Se Pada Jhamela
Das Kabir Har Ke Gun Gawe,
Wah Har Ko Paran Pawe
Guru Ki Karni Guru Jayega,
Chele Ki Karni Chela 

Translation: Fly Off Alone

The Swan Will Fly Off All Alone,
Spectacle of the World Will Be a Mere Fair
As the Leaf Falls from the Tree
Is Difficult to Find
Who Knows Where it Will Fall
Once it is Struck with a Gust Of Wind
When Life Span is Complete
Then Listening to Orders, Following Others, Will Be Over
The Messengers of Yama are Very Strong
It’s an Entanglement with the Yama
Servant Kabir Praises the Attributes of the Lord
He Finds the Lord Soon
Guru Will Go According to His Doings
The Disciple According to His

Gehrani

Avadhuta Gagan Ghata Geharani Re 

Pachm Disa Se Ulti Badali,
Rum Jhum Barse Meha
Utho Gyani Khet Sambharo
Behe Nisrega Pani

Nirat Surat Ke Bel Banawo,
Beeja Bovo Nij Dhani
Dubadhya Dup Jaman Nahi Pawe,
Bovo Naam Ki Dhani

Charon Kone Char Rakhwale,
Chug Na Jawe Mrig Dhani
Katya Khet Meenda Ghar Lyawe,
Jaki Puran Kisani

Paanch Sakhi Mil Kare Rasoi
Jeehme Muni Aur Gyani
Kahe Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho
Bovo Naam Ki Dhani

Translation: Darkness

Oh Unattached Being, Sky is Overcast and Darkening
The Clouds (Monsoon) are Returning from the West,
The Raindrops are Sprinkling
Get Up Learned One and Take Care of Your Farm
The Water Will Run-Away Soon

Make Creepers from Seeing and Listening (Within),
Sow the Seed of the Self-Grain
Let Not the Sunlight of Doubt Set In,
Sow the Grain of Naam (Un-Struck Sound Within)

Four Guards on Each of the Four Corners,
Preventing the Deer from Eating the Grain
Take the Harvested Crop to the Master’s House,
Surrendering the Complete Labor of the Work

Together the Five Friends Are Cooking,
The Munis and Gyanis are Eaten
Listen Oh Seeker Says Kabir,
Sow the Grain of Naam

Ram Niryana

Ram Niranjan Nyara Re,
Anjan Sakal Pasara Re 

Anjan Utapati, Omkar,
Anjan Mange Sab Bistar
Anjan Brahma Shankar Indar,
Anjan Gopi Sangi Govind Re

Anjan Vani, Anjan Ved,
Anjan Kiya Na Na Bhed
Anjan Vidya Path Puran,
Anjan Woh Kat Kat Hi Gyan Re

Anjan Paati Anjan Dev,
Anjan Ki Kare Anjan Sev
Anjan Nache Anjan Gawe,
Anjan Bhesh Anant Dikhawe Re

Anjan Kahan Kahan Lag Keta,
Dan Puni Tap Tirath Jeta
Kahe Kabir Koi Birla Jage,
Anjan Chaadhi Anant Hi Dage Re

Translation: God Untainted

Untainted Ram is Unmatched,
Manifesting the Entire Tainted (Reality)

Tainted are the Womb (of Creation) and the Om,
The Tainted Demands All Expansiveness
Tainted are Brahma, Shankra and Indra,
Tainted is the Govinda along with his Gopis

Tainted are the Spoken Words and Listening,
Tainted has Created Innumerable Distinctions
Tainted are Knowledge, the Daily Prayers and the Ancient Scriptures,
Tainted is that Questioning and Reasoning Knowledge

Tainted is the Leaf and Tainted are the Enlightened Beings,
Tainted is the Served and Tainted is the Servant
Tainted is the Singer and the Dancer,
The Tainted Displays Endless Forms

Where is the Limit, up to Which Tainted has Taken Hold?
Even in Philanthropy, Purity, Austerities and
Places of Pilgrimage, Tainted is Victorious
Says Kabir Only a Very Rare, Exceptional One Awakens,
Tainted has Left Endless Stains

Gagan Ki Ot Nisana

Gagan Ki Ot Nisana Hai Bhai

Dahine Sur Chandrama Banye
Tin Ke Beech Chipana Hai Bhai

Tan Ki Kaman Surat Ka Raunda
Shabad Baan Le Taana Hai Bhai

Maarat Baan Bidha Tan Hi Tan
Satguru Ka Parwana Hai Bhai

Maaryo Baan Ghav Nahin Tan Me
Jin Laaga Tin Jaana Hai Bhai

Kahe Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho
Jin Jaana Tin Maana Hai Bhai

Translation: Target Beyond the Sky

Concealed Beyond the Sky is the Target

On the Right is the Sun, Moon is on the Left
Bisecting them it has to be Hidden

Body is the Bow, Visualization is the Roll of String
Unstruck Sound is the Arrow – Erect and Ready to Take Off

The Arrow is Released Leaving the Body-Instrument Behind

It’s the Messenger of the True-Guru

Despite Shooting the Arrow there is no Injury Mark on the Body
Only those who are Struck Experience it

Says Kabir Listen Oh Practicing Aspirant
Those who Experience Know it

Hirna Charna

Hirna Samajh Boojh Ban Charna

Ek Ban Charna Duje Ban Charna
Tije Ban Pag Nahin Dharna

Tije Ban Mein Panch Paardhi
Un Ke Nazar Nahin Padna

Panch Hirana Pachis Hirni
Un Mein Ek Chatur Na

Toye Mar Tero Mas Bikawe
Tere Khal Ka Karenge Bichona

Kahe Kabira Jo Suno Bhai Sadho
Guru Ke Charan Chit Dharna

Translation: Grazing Deer
Oh Deer Graze With Knowledge and Discrimination

Graze in the First Forest, Graze in the Second Forest
But Don’t Tread into the Third Forest

The Third Forest has Five Hunters
Don’t Let them See You

Five Deer and Twenty Five Female Deer
None Among them is Sensible and Shrewd

Killing You They Will Sell Your Flesh
Your Skin will be Used as a Covering

Says Kabir Listen Oh Practicing Aspirant
Offer your Mind at the Feet of the Guru

Dharmi Na Adharmi

Na Mein Dharmi Na Hi Adharmi
Na Mein Jati Na Kaami Ho
Na Mein Kehta Na Mein Sunta
Na Mein Sevak Swami Ho

Na Mein Bandha Na Mein Mukta
Na Mein Virat Na Rangi Ho
Na Mein Kahu Se Nyara Hua
Na Kahu Ke Sangi Ho

Na Hum Narak Lok Ko Jaate
Na Hum Swarag Sidhare Ho
Sab Hi Karam Hamara Kiya
Hum Karman Se Nyare Ho

Ya Mat Ko Koi Birla Bujhe
So Atal Ho Baitha Ho
Mat Kabir Kaho Ko Thape
Mat Kahu Ko Mete Ho

Translation: Righteous not Non-righteous

Neither am I Righteous nor Non-Righteous
Neither am I an Ascetic nor a Sensualist
Neither Do I Speak nor Do I Listen
Neither Am I a Servant nor a Master

Neither Am I Constrained nor Liberated
Neither Am I Sad nor Jubilant
Neither Am I Distinctly Isolated from Anything
Nor Am I Identified Completely with Anything

Neither Do I go to the World of Hell
Nor Do I Proceed to the World of Heaven
All Actions are Really My Actions
But Yet I am Distinct From the Actions

This Truth Only A Rare Exceptional One Realizes
Such A Person Sits in Quiescence
Oh Kabir Don’t Bring Forth Any Creation
And Don’t Efface Anything Either

 

Gun Re Gaunga

Nirbhay Nirgun Gun Re Gaunga

Mool Kamal Dradh Aasan Bandhu-ji
Ulti Pavan Chadaunga

Man Mamta Ko Thir Kar Laun-ji
Pancho Tat Milaunga

Ingala Pingala Sukhman Nadi-ji
Tirveni Pe Haun Nahaunga

Panch Pachhison Pakad Mangaun-ji
Ek Hi Dor Lagaunga

Shunya Shikhar Par Anhad Baje-ji
Raag Chattis Sunaunga

Kahat Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho-ji
Jeet Nishan Ghuraunga

 

Translation: Praises Will I Sing
Fearlessly I Will Sing the Attributes of the One without Attributes
Using the Base Lotus as the Steady Seat
I Will Make the Wind Rise in Reverse

Steadying the Mind’s Attachments
I Will Unify the Five Elements

Ingila, Pingala and Sukhman are the Channels
I Will Bathe at the Confluence of the Three Rivers

The Five and Twenty Five I Will Master by my Wish
And String them Together by One Common Thread

At the Summit of Aloneness the Un-struck Anahad Sound Reverberates
I Will Play the Thirty-Six Different Symphonies

Says Kabir Listen Oh Practicing Aspirant
I Will Wave the Flag of Victory

Maya Maha Thugni

Maya Maha Thugni Hum Jaani

Tirgun Phans Liye Kar Dole
Bole Madhuri Bani

Kesav Ke Kamla Ve Baithi
Shiv Ki Bhavan Bhavani
Punda Ke Murat Ve Baithi
Tirath Mein Bhai Pani

Yogi Ke Yogin Ve Baithi
Raja Ke Ghar Rani
Kahu Ke Hira Ve Baithi
Kahu Ke Kodi Kani

Bhaktan Ke Bhaktin Veh Baithi
Brahma Ke Brahmani
Kahe Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho
Yeh Sab Akath Kahani  

Translation: Maya is biggest Thug
I Have Come to Know the Illusory Power to be a Great Thug

Her Hands Sway Holding a Web-like Trap
She Speaks in a Sweet Voice

For Kesava , the Sustainer, She is Seated as the Embodiment of Abundance
For Shiva, the God of Dissolution, She is the Empress of the Worlds
For the Priest She is Seated as the Idol of Worship
And in Places of Pilgrimage She Manifests as the Holy Water

For Yogis She is Seated as the Spiritual Partner
In the King’s Palace She is the Queen
For Some She is Seated as a Priceless Diamond
For Some She is a Mere Penny

For Devotees She is Seated in the Object of Devotion
For Brahma She is His Consort
Says Kabir Listen Oh Practicing Aspirant
All this is an Untold Story

Bolna

Bolna Ka Kahiye Re Bhai
Bolat Bolat Tät Namayee

Bolat Bolat Badhe Bikara
Bin Bolyan Kyon Hoyee Bichara
Sant Mile Katchu Kahiye Kahiye
Mile Asant Mushti Kari Rahiye 

Gyani Söön Bolyan Hitkari
Moorakh Söön Bolyan Jhakh Mari
Kahe Kabir Aadha Ghat Dole
Bharya Hoyee Tau Mushan Na Bole 

Translation: Talking
What to say of talks
That lead to veiling of Truth

Too much talk leads to chaos
Yet without talk how does one discuss
If you must; then talk with saints
With devils it is better to stay mum

Blessing it is to talk with the wise
Talking with stupid is waste of time
Says Kabir,
Half full is forever swaying
The fulfilled prefers staying calm