Kabir:
(1398-1518).
15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint.
His writings greatly influenced the Bhakti movement of Hinduism. His verses can be found in the important religious writings of Sikhism.
Kabir was born in the Indian city of Varanasi. He is known to be critical of both organised religions. He questioned what he considered the senseless and unethical practices of all religions, especially what he considered the wrong practices in Hinduism and Islam. During his lifetime, he was threatened by both Hindus and Muslims because of his views. After his death, however, his legacy was claimed by both Hindus and Muslims.
Kabir saw the divine in all things and was a supporter of detachment from the affairs of the world. To know the truth, Kabir suggested, one should drop the ‘I’ or ego. Kabir’s legacy survives through the Kabir panth (‘Path of Kabir’), a religious community that recognises him as its founder. Its members are known as Kabir panthis.
I laugh when I hear that the fish in the water is thirsty. I laugh when I hear that people go on pilgrimage to find God.
