The Parable of the Lion (and the Sheep) in the Ismaili Ginan “Kesri Sinha Sarup Bhulayo”, Composed by Pir Shams

Following his highly acclaimed piece Ismaili Spirituality in Pir Shams Shabzwari’s Ginan “Ek Shabada Suno Mere Bhai”, writer Shiraz Pradhan continues his exploration of the spiritual dimensions of Ismailism with yet another ginan composed by Pir Shams, namely “Kesri Sinha”.

Please click: An Explanation of the Ismaili Ginan
“Kesri Sinha Sarup Bhulayo”

Please click on image for article. Photo: Istockphoto.com. Copyright.

Please click on image for article. Photo: Istockphoto.com. Copyright.

Through the parable in the ginan about a lion cub who grows up in a flock of sheep and starts to behave like a sheep, the Pir seeks to encourage us to correct our own errors and recognize our true nature. Pradhan’s essay cross references other writings and ginans with a similar theme, and finally concludes with a translation of  the five verses of “Kesri Sinha” for the benefit of the readers.