you’ll be like the man who searches the whole jungle
for a jewel that hangs at his throat.
they scarcely produce any light,
So how can you expect to dissipate the darkness
simply by talking about lamps?
in a mirror, befouled by inky filth,
And proceeds to try to erase the blackness
by cleaning the reflection to a shine.
No that so countless many days are lost and gone –
For who has ever recognized the brilliance of the sun
But by seeing it through eyes gone blind?
Teachings Of Surdas
Surdas, also known as Sant Kavi Surdas, was a 15th-century
poet, musician, and saint in the Bhakti movement tradition of India. His
teachings primarily revolve around devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna, as well
as themes of love, compassion, and the spiritual path. Here are some key
teachings associated with Surdas:
Devotion to Lord Krishna: Surdas was a devout follower of
Lord Krishna, considering him the ultimate object of devotion. He emphasized
the importance of surrendering oneself completely to Krishna through love and
devotion.
Bhakti (Devotion) as the Path to Liberation: Surdas
advocated for the path of bhakti as the most effective means for attaining
liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). He believed
that sincere devotion to God could lead to spiritual enlightenment and ultimate
freedom.
Love and Compassion: Surdas’s poetry often reflects themes
of love and compassion. He portrayed Krishna as the epitome of divine love,
capable of showering compassion on all beings. His teachings emphasize the
power of love in transcending worldly attachments and experiencing spiritual
bliss.
Equality and Unity: Surdas's teachings emphasize the unity
of all beings under the divine. He believed that irrespective of caste, creed,
or social status, all individuals have the potential to attain spiritual
realization through devotion to Krishna. His verses often challenge social
hierarchies and promote the idea of universal brotherhood.
Simplicity and Humility: Surdas led a life of simplicity and
humility, which are reflected in his teachings. He valued inner purity and
sincerity over external showmanship. His poems often depict the simple and
humble lifestyle of the devotees of Krishna.
The Power of Music and Poetry: Surdas himself was a talented
musician and poet. He believed in the power of music and poetry as potent
mediums for expressing devotion and connecting with the divine. Many of his
compositions are still sung today as part of devotional practices.
Faith and Surrender: Surdas emphasized the importance of
faith (shraddha) in one's spiritual journey. He taught that true surrender to
the will of God leads to inner peace and fulfillment. Surrendering one's ego
and desires to the divine will pave the way for spiritual growth and
liberation.
Overall, Surdas's teachings inspire individuals to cultivate
love, devotion, humility, and faith in their spiritual quest, ultimately
leading to a deeper connection with the divine and inner transformation.