A diamond was laying in the street covered with dirt. Many fools passed by. Someone who knew diamonds picked it up.
KabirRead
There is nothing but water in the holy pools. I know, I have been swimming there. All the gods sculpted of wood or ivory can’t say a word. I know, I have been crying out to them. The Sacred Books of the East are nothing but words. I looked through their covers one day sideways. What Kabir talks of is only what he has lived through. If you have not lived through something, it is not true.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that true understanding comes from personal experience rather than mere words or beliefs.
In this quote, Kabir reflects on the idea that knowledge and truth are not derived from sacred texts or external symbols, but rather from lived experiences. He suggests that many things, including deities and religious doctrines, are meaningless if not backed by personal encounters and emotions. True wisdom, according to Kabir, can only be attained through direct engagement with life’s realities.
Themes
ExperienceTruthWisdomLifeKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophical discussion about faith and belief systems.
More from Kabir
All quotes →The apple blossom exists to create fruit; when that_x000D_ comes, the petal falls.
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The Lord is in me, the Lord is in you,as life is in every seed, put false pride away and seek the Lord within.
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Seeking Why run around sprinkling holy water? There's an ocean inside you, and when you're ready you'll drink.
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Wherever you are is the entry point.
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When the Guest is being searched for,_x000D_ it is the intensity of the longing for the Guest that does all the work._x000D_ Look at me, and you will see a slave of that intensity.
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