IF CASTE WAS WHAT THE CREATOR HAD IN MIND - KABIR
If caste was what the creator had in mind,
Why wasn't anyone born
With Siva's three lined sign?
If you're a Brahmin
From a Brahmin woman born
Why didn't you come out some special way?
And if you're a Muslim
From a Muslim woman born
Why weren't you circumsized inside?
Say's Kabir: No one is lowely born
The only lowely are those
Who never talk of Ram
This poem by Kabir, a 15th-century Indian mystic poet, challenges the caste system and social
hierarchies:
_Kabir's arguments:_
1. If caste was divinely ordained, why aren't physical markers present at birth?
2. Why don't Brahmins, considered highest in the caste system, exhibit distinct physical
characteristics?
3. Why aren't Muslims born circumcised, if religion determines identity?
_Kabir's message:_
1. Birth does not determine superiority or inferiority.
2. True spirituality and devotion (referring to "Ram," or God) are the measures of a person's
worth.
3. Social hierarchies are human constructs, not divine.
_Kabir's philosophy:_
1. Bhakti (devotional love) transcends caste and creed.
2. Spiritual equality and unity are essential.
This poem reflects Kabir's syncretic approach, blending Hindu and Muslim traditions. He sought
to break down social barriers and emphasize the importance of spiritual seeking.
*Title:* No title is provided, but it's often attributed to Kabir's collection of poems, "Kabir
Granthavali".
*Structure:*
- Four-line stanzas (chaupai) with a consistent rhyme scheme.
- Simple, direct language.
*Imagery and Symbolism:*
- "Siva's three-lined sign" (triloka): Refers to the Hindu deity Shiva's iconic forehead markings,
symbolizing spiritual power.
- "Brahmin from a Brahmin woman born": Highlights caste hierarchy.
- "Muslim from a Muslim woman born" and "circumcised inside": References Islamic tradition.
- "Ram": Symbolizes God or the divine.
*Themes:*
1. *Social critique*: Challenges caste system and religious divisions.
2. *Spiritual equality*: Emphasizes unity and shared humanity.
3. *Devotion over dogma*: Prioritizes spiritual seeking over ritualistic practices.
*Tone:*
1. *Provocative*: Questions established social norms.
2. *Inclusive*: Encourages unity and shared humanity.
3. *Devotional*: Reflects Kabir's mystical and spiritual orientation.
*Poetic Devices:*
1. *Rhetorical questions*: Engages the reader, challenging assumptions.
2. *Metaphor*: Compares spiritual birth to physical birth.
3. *Allusion*: References Hindu and Islamic traditions.
*Philosophical Influences:*
1. *Bhakti movement*: Emphasizes devotion and love for God.
2. *Sufism*: Influences Kabir's mystical and inclusive approach.
3. *Indian mysticism*: Reflects Kabir's eclectic spiritual background.
*Impact:*
1. *Social reform*: Contributed to critiques of caste system and social hierarchies.
2. *Literary significance*: Influenced Indian devotional poetry and literature.
3. *Cultural relevance*: Continues to inspire discussions on spirituality, equality, and social
justice.
