With Filthy Hands - By Siphosethu Thobela

Written By: Siphosethu Thobela

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Siphosethu Thobela presents "With Filthy Hands," a stirring contribution to the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece delves into themes of faith, redemption, and spiritual awakening, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys. As part of this prestigious international competition hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, Thobela's work stands as a testament to the transformative power of belief and the pursuit of spiritual truth.

About the Work

"With Filthy Hands" is a poetic exploration of spiritual renewal and the quest for divine truth. The poem's evocative imagery and rhythmic cadence convey a powerful message about cleansing and redemption. Through vivid metaphors and a sincere tone, it challenges readers to transcend worldly constraints and embrace a path of faith and service. Thobela’s work resonates with a deep spiritual conviction, urging a departure from conformity towards a more profound, truth-seeking existence.

With Filthy Hands

Original Submission by Siphosethu Thobela

With Filthy Hands

His blood washes our filthy hands clean

To touch another with our testimonies,

To serve when it is not serving to us,

To lift the veil of ignorance,

To loosen and bound strongholds.

We simply don't want to be churchgoers

and not Word followers,

or bad-habit doers.

Most certainly not faith negotiators

or selective-obedience choosers.

With this faith,

we strive to be truth tellers,

not dormant dwellers.

Generational curse breakers,

not self-condemnation feelers.

Narrow-road walkers,

not world conformers.

We are Most High seekers,

Prince of Peace believers,

at His right hand seaters.

All-people lovers,

not self-righteous judgers.

Daily-bread eaters

and sin repenters.

Now that in His name we are clean,

We welcome the Spirit of

life speaking,

Kingdom searching,

fruit showing,

faith growing,

journey going,

anxiety rejecting,

fear relenting,

depression resisting.

Remembering we were made to be

impossible-room steppers

and set-apart exuders,

lamp holders,

not crowd shrinkers.

Not when our Potter is a

mountain mover,

miracle performer,

life reformer,

burden reliever,

hope provider,

joy reviver,

transgression forgiver,

underdog qualifier.

The servants are ready,

shovel in hand,

at the Master's command.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated platform for writers worldwide to showcase their literary prowess. It gathers diverse voices, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and creativity. Participants engage in a rich tapestry of storytelling, poetry, and essays, contributing to a global dialogue on contemporary issues and timeless themes. The competition is a beacon for emerging and established writers alike, highlighting the power of the written word.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Siphosethu Thobela for sharing "With Filthy Hands" with us and the global audience through the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your profound insights and poetic expression enrich the tapestry of this year's entries. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your inspiring work in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.