Sant Kabir & Nirguna Bhakti
वदन दिया हरि गुण गाने को
हाथ दिये कर दान रे
मत कर मोह तू, हरि भजन को मान
Use your mouth to sing the praises of the Lord
And your hands to serve others in need
Let go of your attachments and focus on God
These couplets, or dohe, express the essence of bhakti, or devotion, as experienced by their author, Sant Kabir.
Born in Varanasi in the late 14th century, Sant Kabir is recognized as a significant mystic and poet who resonates deeply with Sikhs, Muslims, and Hindus. For Sikhs, Kabir's profound poetry is an integral part of the Guru Granth Sahib, showcasing his spiritual insights. In the Muslim community, he is revered as a Sufi poet, celebrated for his mystical contributions. Among Hindus, Kabir epitomizes nirguna bhakti, reflecting a devotion that transcends traditional forms.
His teachings continue to inspire and unite diverse spiritual communities, highlighting the universal appeal of his work in Indian spirituality and literature.
Nirguna bhakti is a path of devotion that believes not in a God with name & form, but rather a Supreme power that is formless and free. It rejects idol worship, and believes strongly in the Atman (eternal soul) and its relationship to the Brahman (Universe/Universal power).
Sant Kabir, as a nirguna bhakta, was against the blind faith and superstitious nature of all existing religions in India. With this understanding, Sant Kabir rejected casteism and divisiveness in society, uniting people through love and service.
His poetry and contributions to the Bhakti movement have significantly influenced the music landscape. Kabir's words resonate across various music genres, from pure classical to Bollywood and fusion. In a world marked by prejudice and division, Kabir’s messages of inclusivity and equality leverage music as a powerful tool to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds. The timeless relevance of his poetry continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike, transcending cultural boundaries and fostering a spirit of togetherness through music.
Musicians perform Sant Kabir’s experience of devotion and use it as a way to connect to their communities and their own inner self.
