The saint is like sandalwood, but the world is like a snake. Though it wraps its coils around, there is no defilement in the heart.
Kabir uses powerful metaphors to contrast the purity of the saint with the danger of the world. The saint is described as sandalwood, representing natural coolness and fragrance, while the world is compared to a snake, symbolizing entanglement and potential danger. Despite the world's coils wrapping around us, the saint's heart remains untainted, showing that true inner purity grants immunity from worldly defilement.
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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