Sultan Bahoo (1628–1691), one of the greatest Sufi saints of Punjab, expressed profound spiritual truths through his Punjabi poetry. His work is deeply rooted in the mystical tradition of Sufism and focuses on themes such as divine love, self-purification, the annihilation of the ego (Fana), and union with the Divine (Baqa). Sultan Bahoo’s poetry is written in the form of Abyat (couplets), which are simple yet carry immense depth.
Here are some key themes from Sultan Bahoo’s Punjabi poetry along with examples:
1. Divine Love and Union
Sultan Bahoo’s poetry revolves around the concept of Ishq-e-Haqiqi (True Divine Love). He emphasizes the longing for God and the soul’s ultimate goal of merging with the Divine.
Example (Punjabi):
“Ranjha Ranjha kardi ni, main aape Ranjha hoi,
Saddo ni mainu Dhido Ranjha, Heer na aakho koi.”
Translation:
“I kept chanting Ranjha’s name until I became Ranjha myself.
Don’t call me Heer anymore; I have become Ranjha (the beloved).”
This couplet symbolizes the annihilation of the self and the union of the lover with the beloved (God).
2. The Quest for Self-Realization
Sultan Bahoo stresses that knowing oneself is the path to knowing God. This concept aligns with the famous Sufi principle: “Man arafa nafsahu faqad arafa Rabbahu” (He who knows himself knows his Lord).
Example (Punjabi):
“Jis Tan Ishq Samaiya, Phir Dukh Kiyon Pasand Kare,
Ishq Ishq Da Khed Hai, Lok Na Akhan Ishq Kare.”
Translation:
“The body imbued with love desires no sorrow.
Love is not a mere word; it is an intense play.”
He emphasizes that true love for God demands complete surrender and self-realization.
3. Importance of the Spiritual Guide (Murshid)
For Sultan Bahoo, the Murshid (spiritual master) is an essential guide on the path to God. He often compares the master to a lamp that illuminates the dark path of spirituality.
Example (Punjabi):
“Murshid Mera Mehrban, Mere Ander Aa Ke Wasda,
Peeche Lagda Aap Hai, Har Waqt Naal Hamesha.”
Translation:
“My compassionate master resides within me.
He always leads me and remains with me at all times.”
4. Critique of Hypocrisy and Worldliness
Sultan Bahoo condemns materialism and superficial religiosity. He urges seekers to focus on inner purity rather than outward rituals.
Example (Punjabi):
“Masjid Dha De Mandir Dha De, Dha De Jo Kuj Dhainda,
Par Kisi Da Dil Na Dhaween, Rab Dilan Wich Rehnda.”
Translation:
“Tear down the mosque, tear down the temple, tear down whatever can be torn,
But never break anyone’s heart, for God resides within hearts.”
5. Mystical Oneness (Tawhid)
The concept of Wahdat-ul-Wujood (Unity of Being) is central to Sultan Bahoo’s teachings. He speaks of the inseparability of the creator and the creation.
Example (Punjabi):
“Haqq Bahoo Har Jagah Hazir, Rattan Bhar Bhar Naal,
Khasam Kamaiyo Khaal Jio, Khaal Na Lahe Maal.”
Translation:
“Truth is present everywhere, filling every space.
Work for the Master in this life, for wealth cannot save your soul.”
