Moko Kahaan Dundhe Re Bande – Lyrics English Meaning/Translation

The Philosophy of Kabir: Finding the Divine Within

The timeless Kabir Bhajan, ‘Moko Kahan Dhundhe Re Bande’ (often spelled as Moko Kahaan Dundhe), is a profound spiritual poem. Whether you are looking for the literal meaning or the English translation of these verses by Sant Kabir, this guide explores the deep philosophy of finding the Divine within oneself.

Moko Kahan Dhundhe Re Bande is one of the famous poems of Kabir, that I have heard of right from childhood. Recently I heard it from a friend and its beauty astounded me.

Listen to the soul-stirring rendition of this Kabir Bhajan while you follow along with the meaning below:

Sant Kabir’s Moko Kahan Dhundhe Re Bande – Full Lyrics Video and Meaning

Here is the translation of the beautiful poem:

Braj Bhasha	English Translation
Moko Kahan Dhundhere Bande Mein To Tere Paas Mein Na Teerath Mein, Na Moorat Mein Na Ekant Niwas Mein Na Mandir Mein, Na Masjid Mein Na Kabe Kailas Mein Main To Tere Paas Mein	Oh Follower, Where do you search me? I am always with you Not in pilgrimage, nor in statues Neither in solitude Not in temples, nor in the mosque Neither in the Kabha nor in Kailash I am with you, oh follower
Bande Mein To Tere Paas Mein Na Main Jap Mein, Na Main Tap Mein Na Mein Barat Upaas Mein Na Main Kiriya Karm Mein Rehta Nahin Jog Sanyas Mein Nahin Pran Mein Nahin Pind Mein Na Brahmand Akas Mein	I am always with you Not in prayers, nor in meditation Neither in fasting Not in yogic exercises Neither in renunciation Neither in the soul, nor in the body Not even in the infinite space

Na Mein Prakuti Prawar Gufa Mein Nahin Swasan Ki Swans Mein Khoji Hoye Turat Mil Jaoon Ik Pal Ki Talas Mein Kahat Kabir Suno Bhai Sadho Mein To Hun Viswas Mein

Neither in the womb of Nature Not in the breath of the breath Seek earnestly and you will discover me In but a moment of search Listen with care, says Kabir Where your faith is, I am there.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q: What does “Moko Kahan Dhundhe Re Bande” mean?
A: It means “Where are you searching for Me, O seeker/servant?” It is a call from the Divine, as voiced by the poet Kabir, reminding humanity that God is not in external rituals but within our own hearts.

Q: What is the significance of “Kaaba” and “Kailash” in the song?
A: Kabir mentions Kaaba (the holiest site in Islam) and Mount Kailash (the abode of Shiva in Hinduism) to emphasize that the Divine is not confined to specific religions or geographic locations. He is teaching that God transcends all organized religious boundaries.

Q: What does the line “Sab swaanson ki swaans mein” mean?
A: This is the most famous line of the poem. It translates to “In the breath of all breaths.” It suggests that God is as close to you as your own breathing; it is the vital life force within every living being.

Q: Is this song a Bhajan or a Shabad?
A: It is technically a Shabad (a spiritual poem/word), but in popular culture, it is widely performed as a Bhajan (devotional song). It is part of the Bijak, the main compilation of Kabir’s poetic works.

Q: Why did Kabir write in such simple language?
A: Kabir used Sadhukkari (a mix of Hindi, Punjabi, and Braj Bhasha), often called “the language of the saints.” He wrote simply so that common people—not just scholars or priests—could understand spiritual truths without needing a middleman.