Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
Long ago, people say, different ages each had their favored path — one leaned on truth-telling, another on giving feasts, another on careful worship.
Each age held tightly to its own way. But in this age, holding the Name — keeping the Beloved present in the heart — is the support that carries you.
Ravidas says every age had its own way to reach the One, and in our age the way is the Name.
He starts with the four yugas, the great ages of time in Indian tradition: Sat, Trayta, Dwaapar and Kali. Each age was said to have its own leading virtue. In one it was truth. In the next it was charity, giving feasts to others. In the next it was worship. Ravidas honors all three with respect.
Then he makes his point. Kal kayval naam aDhaar — in this age, Kali Yuga, the Name is the only support. The Naam, the Name, means keeping the One present in your heart. He is not waving away truth, giving or worship. He is saying the simplest, surest way right now is loving remembrance.
Think of a school that once let in only students with special tests or fancy uniforms. Now the door is open to anyone who shows up with a willing heart. No big ritual is needed. That is what Ravidas is doing here: he opens the door to everyone.
Of truth, generosity, and quiet reflection — which comes most naturally to you right now?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI