It is not for nothing that Kabir’s sayings are known as ulat vani. Whatever he says it seems contrary to our common knowledge or perception. This was not only true for his spiritual sayings, but also for his couplets giving worldly wisdom. There are many couplets from Kabir that provide valuable life lessons.
Here are some of our favorites:
On the evils of procrastination
Kaal Kare So Aaj Kar, Aaj Kare So Ab
Pal Mein Pralaya Hoyegi, Bahuri Karoge Kab
Do today what is to be done tomorrow, do now what is to be done today.
Any future moment could be the apocalypse, so do what you have to while you still have time.
On being soft spoken
Aisi vani boliye, mann ka aapa khoye.
Auron ko sheetal kare, aaphun sheetal hoye.
Speak soft words for they will help you control your anger and are also a source of joy to the listener.
On the virtue of patience
Dheere dheere re mann, dheere sab kuch hoye,
Maali seenche sau ghara, ritu aaye phal hoye
Slow down, O Mind! For everything happens at its natural pace. Even if you water a plant a 100 times, it will only bear fruit when the season comes.
On humility
Bada hua to kya hua, jaise ped khajoor,
Panthi ko chhaya nahi, fal laage ati duur.
Being big is no good if it is not helpful. Even a palm tree which is huge is of no use as it neither provides shade, nor fruit to the weary traveler.
On the hypocrisy of the world
Dukh mein sumiran sab kare, sukh mein kare na koi,
Jo such mein sumiran kare, to dukh kaahe ko hoye.
Everyone prays to God when in sorrow, none do so in joy. For the one who remembers God in joy will never experience sorrow.