Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
Some people have grown so fond of harsh talk that they know almost nothing else.
They would not listen to wise, gentle guidance even if the greatest of teachers offered it.
Kabir says that a habit of harsh talk can grow so strong it drowns out even the best advice.
Kuchrachaa is quarrelsome, harmful talk. Chhaad kuchrachaa aan na jaaneh: they know nothing but that. The habit has crowded out everything else. Barahmaa hoo ko kahi-o na maaneh: they would not listen even to Brahma. In the old stories, Brahma is the Creator god, a figure of the highest wisdom. Kabir names him with respect, to mean the wisest teacher of all.
Think of headphones turned up so loud that you can't hear your name being called. The point is how hard a deep habit is to loosen. It is never a joke at any tradition's expense.
What is one small habit you would like to loosen before it grows too strong?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI