 Kabir Panthis is a religious community founded by Kabir. This sect contains people belonging to the Muslim or Hindu religion. Kabir Panthis wear a kanthi, or Tulsi beads, around the neck. The 'kanthi' represents the culmination of all virtuous actions. It is worn by choice and is typically given to one who has committed to avoiding lust, anger, greed, attachment to perishable things, and ego. Chauka is the holy service of this sect. Chauka is performed by marking a square with sides of five meters in length. The head sits at one end and conducts bhajans or religious songs. This ritual also includes the acceptance of 'Naam' as the only most important aid towards ultimate sacred realisation.
Kabir Panthis believes in the existence of only one God. They are required to observe purity and cleanliness in their daily lives and actions. They are the believer of Swath or Truth. The Truth of the Kabir Panthis encircles Love, Humility, Compassion, and Unity. They believe that respectability, morality and contemplation are the purest aspect of God. All these aspects fulfill the life. If one does not follow this path then he will have to suffer. Kabir Panthis wear white dresses in all occasions as a sign of purity. The believer of Kabir Panth must keep their body and mind white or pure by contemplating on God and avoiding sensual actions. This is the teaching of Kabir in which way one should lead a life. Such practice will allow one to attain salvation while living no matter what their religion or other personal endeavour may be. Kabir Panthis during religious ceremonies, sing bhajans or songs of the famous couplets of Kabir. They chant to the music of cymbals, drums and other instruments. The head or the Guru recites various prayers dedicated to God. Kabir Panthis can follow any of the either religion, Hindu or Muslim without any hindrance. In this instance lay persons can be cremated according to Hindu law, and priests can be buried according to Islamic law. Kabir Panthis practice Sahaja Yoga which was instigated by Kabir Saheb, himself. This form of yoga can be practiced by all regardless of their age, ability, background, or any other characteristic. Kabir Panthis believe in the straightforwardness of life as lived by Kabir. He used to eat simple food, clothing and belongings. Kabir Panthis are vegetarians and avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco and other intoxicants. |
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