Kabir saw many holy Muslim and Hindu people, and grew up near both Hindu and Muslim places of worship. He would often put a vermillion mark on his forehead and sing the name of Lord Ram. Fortunately, his parents were very tolerant and understood that he was a special child, unlike his Muslim neighbors who would often beat him up. This only made Kabir’s resolve to become a spiritual teacher stronger.

MEETING HIS GURU

Kabir wanted to make Swami Ramanand his Guru, but as a low caste Muslim, he was not sure if he would be accepted. He came to know that Swamiji used to go for a bath in the river, early morning before sunrise. One day, he lay on the steps of the river, before Swamiji came. Unknowingly, in the darkness, Swami Ramanand stepped on him. In shock, Swamiji uttered “Ram! Ram!” Kabir immediately held his feet, proclaiming, “I have touched your lotus feet, and have received the Holy Name of Ram from you. You are now my Guru.”

Swami Ramanand was impressed by his intellect. Being above worldly prejudice and without a care about caste and religion, he accepted Kabir as his disciple. Kabir received spiritual knowledge from his Guru for many years. During that time, he married and lived a simple life through weaving. He was very generous by nature and often gave away whatever he could to the needy. All the while, his mind would be absorbed in God. His simple approach earned him many enemies, but with time, people started flocking to him and Kabir began imparting his spiritual message to all.

HIS TEACHINGS

Kabir rejected dry rituals that were being observed without devotion by the Hindus and the Muslims. He taught that love for God was the essence of religion. He set an example of simplicity and devotion, by chanting the glories of God, while working on his loom.

Saints of India

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