Kabir

The path to God is not in going to Mecca or Varanasi, but in looking within.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

The fool searches for God in temples and mosques, but the wise man finds Him in his own heart.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

If you want to know the secret, learn to see with your heart, not with your eyes.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

The lamp is in the house, but the blind man cannot see it.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

The wind blows, and the dust rises. But the dust cannot touch the wind.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

The world is a dream, and the dream is real.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

The moon is in the sky, but its light is on the earth.

c. 15th century — Poem from 'Songs of Kabir'

Humorous Unverifiable

If God be within the mosque, then to whom does this world belong? If Ram be within the image which you find upon your pilgrimage, then who is there to know what happens without? Hari is in the East, Allah is in the West. Look within your heart, for there you will find both Karim and Ram.

15th century — From his poetry questioning religious orthodoxy.

Controversial Unverifiable

The Pandits and the Mullahs read their books endlessly, but they never dive into the sea.

15th century — Criticizing scriptural scholars for not seeking true spiritual experience.

Controversial Unverifiable

If by worshipping stones one can find God, I shall worship a mountain.

15th century — Mocking idol worship.

Controversial Unverifiable

Sayings by Kabir