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by Rabindranath Tagore — a poem card from Justes Mots
An allegory about hypocrisy and the violation of sacred spaces. The poem contrasts outward meekness and piety with nocturnal theft from the altar, suggesting how false devotion corrupts spiritual sanctuaries. It serves as a meditation on authentic versus performed faith.
When it was day they came into my house and said, “We shall only take the
smallest room here.”
They said, “We shall help you in the worship of your God and humbly accept only
our own share in his grace”; and then they took their seat in a corner and they
sat quiet and meek.
But in the darkness of night I find they break into my sacred shrine, strong…
Themes: gratitude · friendship · admiration · reflection