Bulleh Shah

Q. Write down the explanation of the poem Kar Kattan Wal Dhiyan Kuray by Bulleh Shah.

Stanza 1

Lass look to your spinning, girl
Your mother always counsels you
Why do you act so aimlessly?
Do not for sake of your modesty
Heed the counsel of ignorant girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

Bulleh Shah, in his characteristically direct style, addresses the seeker as “lass,” a term of endearment used to awaken young girls from spiritual slumber.

Bulleh Shah, a Sufi poet, urges a girl to focus on her “spinning,” a symbolic act in Sufi tradition. This spinning represents the continuous remembrance of God, known as dhikr.

It is a physical and spiritual activity that aligns thoughts, breath, and actions with the divine rhythm.

The girl’s neglect of her spinning suggests she is distracted from her true purpose in life. In Sufism, this purpose is the pursuit of union with God.

Ignoring her spiritual practice, she is turning away from the path leading to divine connection. The repeated phrase, “Last look to your spinning girl,” is a gentle reminder.

It encourages the girl to turn inward and refocus on her spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this connection with the divine through constant remembrance.

Stanza 2

With the spinning wheel, you have
You have paid nothing to obtain it
You do not realize the effort you put in
When your task has become so easy,
Lass, look to your spinning 

Explanation

The stanza presents the spinning wheel as a divine gift, symbolizing the human body and soul. As the wheel spins raw wool into fine thread, people can transform their base desires into refined spiritual qualities.

This transformation requires dedication and practice, illustrating the potential for personal growth. The wheel is described as “free,” emphasizing that this opportunity for spiritual improvement is not something earned.

Rather, it is a generous gift from a higher power. The refrain in the stanza highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing this gift and reminds us to use it wisely.

It warns against wasting this divine opportunity on meaningless activities, urging a focus on spiritual development instead. The message is clear: don’t squander the chance for growth.

Stanza 3

The wheel is made for your sake
Restrain a little your urge to play
You are not going to grow further
Do not act foolishly, girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

Bulleh Shah uses the spinning wheel as a symbol to convey a spiritual message. He emphasizes that the spinning wheel is a tool for producing material goods and achieving spiritual growth.

This analogy encourages the reader to look beyond worldly achievements and focus on spiritual advancement. Distractions can lead a person away from their spiritual path.

He reminds us that life is short and that we should prioritize spiritual goals over temporary pleasures. The line “You are not going to grow further” serves as a reminder of the limits of human life.

It emphasizes the urgency of using our time wisely for spiritual development. The refrain reinforces this message, urging the seeker to engage in inner work that brings lasting fulfilment.

Bulleh Shah’s message is clear: do not get lost in pursuing material gains or worldly distractions. Focus instead on spiritual growth, as it is the true path to lasting fulfillment and purpose in life.

Stanza 4

Your wheel is of various colours
It is the envy of the whole community
Spin it while the going is good
Get settled in your own house, girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

It reflects on the material world’s allure using the image of a spinning wheel with “various colors.” These colors represent the many temptations that can lead a person away from spiritual growth.

The vibrant, changing colors are attractive, drawing attention and envy. Bulleh Shah reminds us that worldly beauty and possessions seem appealing but do not bring lasting happiness or true fulfilment.

External validation is temporary and contrasts with the deeper satisfaction of focusing on spiritual growth. The refrain emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s spiritual journey.

The seeker should stay committed to their spiritual purpose despite the world’s distractions. True inner peace and happiness come from within, not from external things.

Stanza 5

This wheel has a heavy price
Ye dull, you know not it’s value
You are hot; you struck in conceit
Lost in vanity, pelf, and pride
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

Bulleh Shah uses the spinning wheel in this stanza to symbolize the human body. He believes that the body has the potential to connect with the divine.

He criticizes the person who loses themselves in pride and material desires, as these distractions prevent the realization of the body’s true value.

The words “hotty,” “struck in conceit,” and “lost in vanity” describe someone who is overly proud and focused on superficial things.

Bulleh Shah points out that this arrogance blinds people from understanding their true spiritual potential, leading them away from a meaningful spiritual journey.

The refrain, “Last look to your spinning girl,” pleads for people to wake up from their delusions and see the true purpose of their existence.

It is to embrace humility and become aware of the divine potential within them. This awareness is essential for true spiritual growth.

Stanza 6

I shout I cry with uplifted arms
Do not at all be careless
Listen to me and understand
Never will such a wheel be fashioned
By any other craftsman or girl
Lass look your spinning

Explanation

In this stanza, Bulleh Shah’s message becomes more intense. He “shouts” and “cries,” showing his concern for the seeker’s spiritual well-being. His raised arms signify urgency.

Time is fleeting, and Bulleh Shah emphasizes that the chance for spiritual growth won’t last forever. He warns that the human form is unique and precious.

He urges the seeker not to waste this rare chance for spiritual advancement. The repetition of his plea highlights the desperation in his voice.

He wants the seeker to understand the importance of this message. It’s a call to action, emphasizing that spiritual growth should be pursued immediately as time passes.

Stanza 7

Why let such a wheel go to waste?
Why throw it on a heap of dust?
Ever since it came your way
I don’t remember you playing it, foolish girl
Lass look your spinning

Explanation

In this stanza, the speaker expresses sorrow and confusion over why someone would disregard the great value of the human body. The “spinning wheel” symbolizes the body, which is precious and capable of achieving spiritual growth.

The speaker questions why anyone would treat it as worthless by discarding it “on a heap of dust.” The phrase “heap of dust” suggests a place where things of no value are thrown away.

Using this imagery, the speaker emphasizes how tragic it is to waste the human body’s potential for spiritual development. The repeated lines in the stanza highlight the seriousness of this neglect.

The speaker’s lament is about more than just the physical body. It reflects a deeper concern that people ignore their opportunity to pursue a higher purpose in life.

The speaker wants readers to understand the importance of recognizing and valuing the human body’s role in spiritual self-realization.

Stanza 8

I advise this silly, senseless girl
This foolish queer and ridiculous girl
When misfortunes overtake this hapless one
You will lament in despair, girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

In this stanza, Bulleh Shah uses strong language to address the seeker, calling her “silly,” “senseless,” “foolish,” “queer,” and “ridiculous.” These words might seem harsh, but they are not meant to insult.

Instead, they are a wake-up call intended to shake the seeker out of her comfortable but misguided way of thinking. Such blunt language is used to grab the seeker’s attention.

Bulleh Shah wants to clarify that the seeker is not fully aware of the reality of her situation. By using these strong words, he hopes to jolt her into realizing the consequences of her actions and the importance of seeking true understanding.

Direct and sometimes harsh language is common in Sufi poetry. This approach is used to break through the seeker’s illusions and self-centeredness.

Bulleh Shah is not attacking the person but rather trying to guide her toward self-awareness and spiritual growth.

The speaker’s intends to help the seeker see beyond her current state of ignorance. The harshness challenges the seeker, pushing her to question her beliefs and attitudes.

It is a method of teaching that aims to provoke reflection and ultimately lead the seeker towards enlightenment.

Stanza 9

You have been ever-ill provided
Never did you spin a role with attention
Why are you wrong, sad, and gloomy?
On whom do you pin your hopes, girl?
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza shifts attention to the seeker’s past and future. The phrase “ever ill-provided” suggests that the seeker has always lacked spiritual nourishment.

This could be due to a lack of guidance or a lack of awareness of spiritual needs. The speaker questions the seeker’s hopes and goals, hinting that these are misguided and will not lead to true happiness.

The repetition of the refrain in the stanza emphasizes the importance of redirecting the seeker’s focus. The speaker urges the seeker to turn inward, suggesting that true fulfillment can only be found through spiritual practice.

The emphasis is on the need for inner reflection and growth rather than pursuing external aspirations. By asking these questions and offering this advice, the speaker encourages the seeker to reconsider their path.

The suggestion is that without addressing spiritual needs, any hopes or ambitions will ultimately prove unsatisfying. The stanza serves as a gentle reminder that true contentment comes from within.

Stanza 10

You do not get your spindle straightened
No do you get the wheel string tightened?
Time and again, why stop you spinning?
You work your ruin, girl.
Look at your spinning girl

Explanation

This stanza emphasizes the results of neglecting one’s spiritual growth. The “spinning wheel” represents the tools and opportunities given to the seeker for her spiritual development.

When she fails to keep the wheel spinning, it shows her inability to use these tools effectively. This neglect leads to an unfulfilled life lacking true purpose.

The speaker expresses sadness and urgency, warning the seeker of the consequences of inaction. The tone suggests that time is running out, and the seeker must act quickly to avoid wasting her life.

This stanza ends with a direct appeal: “Look to your spinning,” meaning that the seeker must focus on her inner journey. This final plea serves as a reminder that the path to enlightenment and spiritual fulfilment is within the seeker’s reach.

However, it requires her to recognize and use the opportunities available to her. The message is clear: the time to start this journey is before it is too late.

Stanza 11

Get your curved spindle straightened
Quickly get your wheel string fixed
Please set it to work somehow or another way.
Do not be negligent.
Lass look to your spinning wheel

Explanation

Bulleh Shah advises the seeker to focus on practical spiritual practice. The “curved spindle” symbolizes a misaligned heart, indicating that one’s intentions or emotions might be out of sync with the divine.

The “wheel string” represents the strong and straight connection to God. He urges the seeker to correct these flaws and emphasizes that spiritual work should not be delayed.

The phrase “set it to work somehow or other” suggests the importance of taking action, regardless of difficulties, to align oneself spiritually.

The repeated refrain, “Last look to your spinning o girl,” is a reminder to prioritize spiritual growth over other distractions. It stresses the urgency of focusing on one’s inner spiritual journey and maintaining consistent effort in the practice.

Stanza 12

You have fresh cotton in the house today
It would be best if you quickly worked the pin rolls
Take the rolled cotton to get it whiffed
Tomorrow you cannot go there, oh girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

It suggests a scene where a young girl is urged to complete her tasks related to cotton processing. The focus is on the urgency of the work and the importance of finishing it before the next day.

First, fresh cotton is available in the house today. The cotton needs to be quickly prepared by rolling it into pin rolls. This process must be done efficiently because it is essential to cotton preparation.

After rolling the cotton, the next step is to take it to a place where it can be cleaned or “whiffed.” This likely refers to a method of refining or processing the cotton to make it suitable for further use, such as spinning it into thread.

The passage then emphasizes that the girl cannot go to this place tomorrow. This adds a sense of urgency, implying that today is the only chance to complete this task.

The reminder finally comes to the girl to focus on her spinning work. This shows that spinning the cotton into thread is a significant responsibility, and she needs to pay attention to it after it is prepared and cleaned.

Overall, the passage highlights the importance of completing each step of the cotton preparation process within a specific time frame, emphasizing the girl’s responsibilities and the tasks she must accomplish.

Stanza 13

When you return with whiffed cotton
With friends, you will spin cotton rolls
You will be liked by one and all
In the whole wide world,
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza highlights the importance of community in spiritual practice. The speaker describes a gathering where friends come together to spin, which represents participating in spiritual activities as a group.

The act of spinning together shows how these practices can bring people closer, creating a sense of belonging and mutual support.

It suggests that engaging in these spiritual practices benefits the individual and helps build positive relationships. It indicates that being part of this communal activity can lead to acceptance and harmony among the participants.

The refrain, which repeats throughout the poem, emphasizes that spiritual practice should not be done alone. It is a collective effort that strengthens social connections.

This idea reinforces the value of shared experiences in deepening spiritual understanding and fostering unity within the community.

Stanza 14

In your spinning party, have all your friends
They spun their cotton rolls and finished their work
Use it idly; they want you to spin
Why do you keep sitting and looking at them, dazed?
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

The seeker’s friends surround her, dedicated to their spiritual practices. While they actively engage, she remains idle and unfocused.

The phrase “Use it idly; they goad you to spin” indicates that her friends encourage her to participate, but she doesn’t respond. This inaction suggests that she is not engaged in the spiritual activities around her while she is present.

The word “dazed” implies that she might be overwhelmed or distracted, preventing her from joining in. Her friends’ encouragement serves as a reminder that spiritual growth requires active participation.

The refrain gently reminds the seeker to overcome her inertia. It suggests that spiritual progress is not a solitary journey but a collective effort where the support of others plays a crucial role.

The stanza emphasizes the importance of being present and actively involved in one’s spiritual journey.

Stanza 15

Light the lamp lying near you
Spin the cotton and put it in the basket
Keep awake throughout the night
And what tirelessly on your wheel, girl?
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza highlights the personal effort needed in spiritual practice. The “lamp” represents inner light and divine wisdom. The speaker encourages the seeker to stay awake and alert.

This suggests that spiritual practice requires continuous effort and awareness. The repetition of “Put your mind in spinning, girl” stresses the need for mindfulness and focus.

The act of “spinning throughout the night” symbolizes dedication and perseverance in pursuing spiritual goals. It suggests that achieving spiritual growth requires ongoing, consistent work.

The night represents the challenges and difficulties one may face, but the seeker must remain committed and diligent.

This stanza emphasizes that spiritual practice is not easy and demands constant attention and effort. The imagery of the lamp and spinning suggests that staying focused and mindful is crucial to the spiritual journey.

The repetition underscores the importance of perseverance in reaching spiritual enlightenment.

Stanza 16

The reign in your parent’s house is for four days
Please do not waste it all in frivolous play
Do not remain idle; do some work
Let not your home go to ruin, girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza highlights the fleeting nature of life and the urgency to focus on spiritual growth. The “reign in your parents’ house” symbolizes the short period before adulthood’s responsibilities take over.

The speaker advises against wasting this time on trivial activities, urging the seeker to prioritize spiritual practices over worldly distractions.

Life is short, and the opportunity for spiritual growth is limited. The speaker emphasizes the importance of using this time wisely.

As one ages, responsibilities increase, leaving less time for spiritual pursuits. The seeker is encouraged to focus on spiritual growth while the opportunity is present.

The message is clear: do not squander your time on unimportant matters. Instead, dedicate yourself to what truly matters—your spiritual journey. Doing so ensures you maximize your time before other obligations consume it.

Stanza 17

Do not pass the night in slumber
You will not come here a second time
And sit again in this spinning party
With friendly girls of your age,
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza highlights the temporary nature of life, reminding us that our time on Earth is limited. The phrase “You will not come here the second time” stresses the importance of living in the present and making the most of this life.

The mention of a “spinning party with friends” symbolizes the fleeting nature of youth and social connections. While enjoyable, these moments will eventually pass, just like youth and relationships.

The refrain urges us to focus on what is eternal rather than what is temporary. It encourages seeking spiritual growth and wisdom rather than becoming overly attached to worldly pleasures and temporary experiences.

Stanza 18

You will not stay in the parental house forever
Nor always sit beside your fond mother
You will bear the fire of separation one day
And face your mother-in-law and sister-in-law, oh girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza emphasizes that life is full of changes and challenges. It reminds the seeker that the comfort and security of her parental home are not permanent. One day, she will leave this familiar place and face new difficulties in her life.

The “fire of separation” symbolizes the emotional pain and struggle of leaving her family. This experience is a common part of growing up, and it signifies the transition to a new stage in life.

She will encounter different challenges as she moves to a new household with her in-laws. Adapting to this new environment will require patience, understanding, and strength.

The stanza encourages the seeker to prepare for these inevitable life changes. She can navigate these transitions with greater ease and peace by cultivating inner strength and resilience through spiritual practice.

Stanza 19

Spin your yarn or get it spun
Get your threads set in the warp
Get your wedding clothes dyed
Then alone will you earn respect, oh girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza emphasizes the practical benefits of engaging in spiritual practice as a way to prepare for future challenges. The act of spinning yarn and preparing wedding clothes represents the need to develop the necessary skills and resources for a successful life.

By dedicating time and effort to these tasks, the speaker suggests that the individual will be well-prepared for future responsibilities.

The spinning of yarn is a metaphor for spiritual and personal growth. It symbolizes the continuous effort needed to improve oneself and prepare for the future.

The wedding clothes represent the rewards of this preparation, both in terms of respect within the community and a sense of accomplishment.

The speaker highlights that dedication to such practices leads to earning respect and admiration. This respect comes from external recognition and the inner strength and readiness that spiritual practice brings.

It underscores the importance of consistent effort in preparing for life’s challenges. He stresses the value of both spiritual and practical preparation.

It reminds us that investing time and energy in developing our abilities can lead to a successful and respected life. The message is clear: consistent effort in both spiritual and practical matters is essential for future success.

Stanza 20

When you get to the house of strangers,
You will not come back again from there
You will feel repentant on reaching there
Make some provision for the girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza emphasizes the practical benefits of engaging in spiritual practice as a way to prepare for future challenges. The act of spinning yarn and preparing wedding clothes represents the need to develop the necessary skills and resources for a successful life.

The speaker suggests that by dedicating time and effort to these tasks, the individual will prepare well for future responsibilities.

The spinning of yarn is a metaphor for spiritual and personal growth. It symbolizes the continuous effort needed to improve oneself and prepare for the future.

The wedding clothes represent the rewards of this preparation, both in terms of respect within the community and a sense of accomplishment.

The speaker highlights that dedication to such practices leads to earning respect and admiration. This respect comes from external recognition and the inner strength and readiness that spiritual practice brings.

It highlights the importance of consistently preparing for life’s challenges through effort, the value of both spiritual and practical preparation, and the reminder that investing time and energy in developing our abilities can lead to a successful and respected life.

The message is clear: consistent effort in both spiritual and practical matters is essential for future success.

Stanza 21

You still have so much to do
Why have you grown so carefree?
What will you do at the last moment?
When the guest (an angel of death) reaches your house,
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

Stanza 22

When all your friends have departed
They will not return from there at all (they will not return to this world after death)
They will not set their wheels to spin
Your spinning house will remain deserted, oh girl
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

This stanza reminds us that death is unavoidable and all human relationships are temporary. The friends of the seeker, who were once close and involved in her life, will also die.

They will not return to this world. Worldly attachments are short-lived and should not be relied upon, as this loss demonstrates.

It emphasizes the importance of focusing on spiritual growth over holding on to earthly connections. These connections, no matter how meaningful they seem, will eventually fade.

The refrain reflects the loneliness and isolation that can occur if one neglects their spiritual path. When we lose our loved ones, we might feel alone. This loneliness can be even more profound if we have not nurtured our spiritual side.

The stanza gently reminds us that, while human connections are precious, they are not lasting. Spiritual growth should be a higher priority, as it is the only thing that can offer peace and fulfillment beyond life’s temporary nature.

Stanza 23

Be proud of your beauty and youth.
Tourists do not settle in a foreign land (this world is a foreign land for the soul)
Of this false transient world
No name or trace will be left behind
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

Bulleh Shah warns against pride and attachment to worldly beauty and youth. He emphasizes that these aspects of life are temporary and should not be the focus of one’s existence. The allure of youth and beauty fades, and clinging to them is futile.

He reminds us that the world is not our permanent home; it’s a temporary place where the soul resides for a short time. This idea encourages us to look beyond materialistic desires and focus on what truly matters.

Bulleh Shah stresses that no worldly achievements or possessions will last forever. When we depart from this world, we leave behind everything we once held dear. Therefore, investing in worldly pursuits is ultimately fruitless.

The repeated refrain emphasizes the importance of focusing on spiritual truths and seeking a connection with the divine. Bulleh Shah suggests that this is the true purpose of life, guiding us to focus on the eternal rather than the temporary.

Stanza 24

You are testing time (the time of death), which will surely come
When all year and year will desert you
But at the time, the Sultan of Bullah
It will help you to be ferried across
Lass look to your spinning

Explanation

The final stanza of the poem has a comforting message. The speaker acknowledges that death is unavoidable. However, they reassure the reader that when the time comes, God, referred to as the “Sultan of Bullah,” will be there to guide them through the transition.

The emphasis is on having faith in this divine assistance.

The poem concludes with the repeated line, “Put your mind spinning, girl.” This is a reminder to remain focused on spiritual practices. It suggests that keeping the mind engaged in spiritual thoughts is key to achieving a state of grace.

The poem encourages the reader to trust in the divine and remain steadfast on their spiritual journey. It offers hope that, with proper spiritual preparation, one can face death with reassurance and peace.