The Path to Unity: A Journey Beyond Separation

Sant Kabir’s doha, “If you are arriving at the place of unity, then why do you remain separated? Here, too, is the same destiny, here, too, the same devotion,” calls us to look deeper into the nature of our separateness and the illusion that keeps us apart from the oneness that is already within and around us.

In a world where we’re constantly pulled in different directions by our identities, beliefs, and perceptions, Sant Kabir challenges us to question: If the ultimate destination of our spiritual journey is unity, why do we allow ourselves to remain divided? What is the source of this separation? How do we bridge the gap between the individual self and the universal oneness?

The Illusion of Separation

At the core of Sant Kabir’s message is the idea that the sense of separation we experience is nothing more than an illusion. Our ego — the 'I' that differentiates us from others — creates this illusion. We view ourselves as separate from others, separate from the divine, and separate from the universe. This division becomes the root of all suffering.

Sant Kabir’s insight is a reminder that all spiritual paths ultimately lead to unity. Whether through devotion, meditation, or wisdom, the goal remains the same: realizing that we are already part of an infinite whole. However, despite knowing this at an intellectual level, many of us continue to cling to the idea of separation. We live our lives fragmented, in the pursuit of individual goals, and often forget the greater connection that unites all beings.

Sant Kabir’s words challenge us to shed these illusions and align our consciousness with the truth that we are all interconnected. He beckons us to see through the veils of ego, ignorance, and duality, and to walk the path of unity where distinctions between “you” and “me” fade into the realization of oneness.

Unity Within Diversity

Unity does not mean homogeneity or the erasure of individuality. On the contrary, unity honours the richness of diversity while recognizing the common thread that weaves through everything. Each one of us is unique, with different talents, ideas, and experiences, yet we are all part of the same larger tapestry of existence.

Sant Kabir is asking us to see this interconnectedness at every level. In our families, communities, and the broader world, the same divine spark flows through each individual. This common destiny, as Sant Kabir calls it, binds us to the same truth — we are all on a journey toward the same source. The devotion that drives us, whether we realize it or not, is a devotion to this unity.

The Power of Devotion

Devotion, as Sant Kabir emphasizes, is the bridge between the separated self and the oneness we seek. This devotion does not necessarily mean religious rituals or dogma. Instead, it is an internal surrender to something greater than the self. It is the practice of love, compassion, and understanding that unites us with the universe.

By cultivating devotion in our daily lives — to our work, to others, and to our higher purpose — we gradually dissolve the barriers that keep us apart. We begin to experience life not as fragmented moments but as an interconnected flow, where everything is a manifestation of the same divine energy.

Toolkit: Practices to Embrace Unity in Daily Life

1. Self-Reflection (Dissolve the Ego)

Take 10 minutes each day to reflect on moments when you felt disconnected from others. Was it due to judgment, fear, or insecurity? Recognize these feelings and remind yourself that the same life force flows through you and the people you felt distanced from.

2. Practice Empathy

Engage in conscious acts of empathy. When you listen to someone, try to feel their emotions as if they were your own. Remember, the person in front of you shares the same human experience, with its joys and pains, just as you do.

3. Surrender to the Flow (Let Go of Control)

Letting go of the need to control outcomes is key to embracing unity. Trust that there is a larger plan in place. Let life unfold and embrace every situation as part of your spiritual journey.

4. Offer Silent Devotion

Devotion can be a quiet moment of gratitude in the morning, a prayer before you sleep, or simply dedicating your efforts to a higher cause. Whether it’s through words or actions, align your day with the intention to serve something greater.

5. See the Divine in Everyone

As a daily exercise, remind yourself that the people you meet are expressions of the same divinity. Whether it’s a stranger, a colleague, or a loved one, train yourself to see the divine essence in them, no matter the differences on the surface.

Walking Toward Unity

Sant Kabir’s doha invites us to move beyond the superficial separations that dominate our lives and to walk the path toward unity. This unity is not just a philosophical idea — it’s a living experience that begins within us. When we let go of the ego’s grip, embrace empathy, and cultivate devotion in our actions, we align ourselves with the universal truth that we are all one. The journey to this unity is not far — it is already within us, waiting to be realized.