Neither in the Vedas or the scriptures, nor in the intoxicating wine or the ruinous deeds; neither in the waking state nor in the sleep.
This powerful verse from Bulleh Shah is a profound declaration of spiritual detachment. The Shayar states that he is not immersed in the scriptures (Ved Kitaabaan), nor is he intoxicated by earthly pleasures like wine or merriment. He explicitly denies the allure of worldly vices—be it the intoxication of the tavern or the illusion of the ruined palace. Instead, he finds his truth in a state of quiet awareness, neither sleeping nor fully awake, suggesting a transcendent state beyond dualities.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
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