The master, the potter, and the student's pot; he shapes it, and at every moment, he removes its flaws. With internal support, he gives, and with external force, he strikes.
Kabir uses the metaphor of the potter and the clay to explain the role of the Guru. The Guru is the potter, and the student is the pot. The process of learning is depicted as shaping the vessel—removing flaws through both gentle support (internal support) and rigorous challenge (external force). This suggests that true refinement and spiritual growth require both nurturing care and disciplined struggle.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
Audio
Free — just your email. You'll come right back here.
No comments yet. Be the first.