Tukaram, Poem 126

Hear my words, O saints! I am a sinner beyond all men—why do you love me with such tenderness? My heart testifies within me, of a surety I am not saved; men look upon me with honour, because I follow a track that others have laid down. I was sorely troubled by my worldly business, I became a cattle driver, a twister of oxen’s tails. Even so, I could not maintain myself, so I took to my present course. The little money I had was soon finished; not that I renounced it, I gave it to Bramhanas and beggars. I cut myself off from wife, sons and daughters, and became of course a low, stupid wretch. I dared not show my face to the world; I crept into holes or retired to the jungle; thus I entered on a solitary life. I was vexed by the cravings of the belly; and I thought that God had no mercy. If any one offered me a dinner, I readily said “Yes.” My fathers served this God before me, this is why I worship Him. Tuka says, Come, some of you, offer Him faith and take him in exchange for it.