Guru Arjan Dev Ji has left a striking legacy to help explore the basics of Sikhi by prescribing a Gurmat Research Methodology to Grasp the Gist of Gurbani: Naam.

In Sukhmani Sahib, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Chief Editor of Granth Sahib (Pothi Sahib) gives an extensive guidelines on 1. Literature survey, 2. Experimental work and
3. Conclusion as his tried Research Methodology to grasp the Sikhi Spiritual Marg elaborated in Gurbani:-

When I started my research work for a PhD degree in Analytical Chemistry, the first thing my supervisor told me was to collect information on the work already done in the chosen area/topic of my research (in technical terms to carry out a literature survey).

Some years later on moving to the Gurmat Marg, I received a similar advice by Guru Arjan Dev Ji but in this case he himself handed down a comprehensive literature review (as set out in Sukhmani Sahib) to facilitate progressive research in the broad area of spirituality:-

ਬਹੁ ਸਾਸਤ੍ਰ ਬਹੁ ਸਿਮ੍ਰਿਤੀ ਪੇਖੇ ਸਰਬ ਢਢੋਲਿ ॥ ਪੂਜਸਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਹਰਿ ਹਰੇ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਅਮੋਲ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 265-8).
The many Shaastras and the many Simritees – I have seen and searched through them all.| They are not equal to Har, Haray – O Nanak, the Lord’s Invaluable Name. ||1||

The outcome of literature survey done by Guru Arjan Dev Ji narrows down the essence of choice of Gurmat Topic as ‘Invaluable Naam’.The literature survey then clearly defines an appropriate Research Title i.e. ‘Naam Leads to Niranjan’ (Waheguru/Vahiguru):-

ਨਾਨਕ ਕੈ ਘਰਿ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮੁ ॥੪॥੪॥ (Raag Bhairao M. 5, GGS. 1136-16).
Nanak’s home is filled with the Naam, the Name of the Lord. ||4||4||

When we consider Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Bani as the body of his research thesis, then the conclusion goes remarkably with the title:-

ਨਾਮ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨਹਿ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਜਾਨਿਆ ॥੩॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 281-11).
One whose mind accepts the Company of the Naam, The Name of the Lord, O Nanak, knows the Immaculate Lord. ||3||

ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਆਪਨ ਆਪੁ ਸੁਝੈ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਜਾਨਹੁ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਬੁਝੈ ॥
By Guru’s Grace, one understands himself; Know that then, his thirst is quenched.

– Guru Ji dedicates his Bani (research work) to ੴ (Waheguru/Vahiguru) as:-

ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥
One Universal Creator God. By The Grace Of The True Guru.

– Guru Ji’ sums up his acknowledgement in the following words to Waheguru:-

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਭ ਤੇਰੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਕੋਈ ਨਾਉ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਮੇਰਾ ॥੪॥੧੦॥੪੯॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, GGS. 383-12).
Kahu Naanak Sabh Thaeree Vaddiaaee Koee Naao N Jaanai Maeraa ||4||10||49||
Says Nanak, this is all Your greatness; no one even knows my name. ||4||10||49||

The SYNOPSIS of Guru Ji’s thesis is summed up as:-

ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਆਰਾਧਣਾ ਜਿਹਵਾ ਜਪਿ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Raag Goojree M. 5, GGS. 517-15).
Anthar Gur Aaraadhhanaa Jihavaa Jap Gur Naao ||
Deep within yourself, worship the Guru in adoration, and with your tongue, chant the Guru’s Name.

ਨੇਤ੍ਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੇਖਣਾ ਸ੍ਰਵਣੀ ਸੁਨਣਾ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥
Naethree Sathigur Paekhanaa Sravanee Sunanaa Gur Naao ||
Let your eyes behold the True Guru, and let your ears hear the Guru’s Name.

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਤੀ ਰਤਿਆ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਾਈਐ ਠਾਉ ॥
Sathigur Saethee Rathiaa Dharageh Paaeeai Thaao ||
Attuned to the True Guru, you shall receive a place of honor in the Court of the Lord.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਏਹ ਵਥੁ ਦੇਇ ॥
Kahu Naanak Kirapaa Karae Jis No Eaeh Vathh Dhaee ||
Says Nanak, this treasure is bestowed on those who are blessed with His Mercy.

ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਉਤਮ ਕਾਢੀਅਹਿ ਵਿਰਲੇ ਕੇਈ ਕੇਇ ॥੧॥
Jag Mehi Outham Kaadteeahi Viralae Kaeee Kaee ||1||
In the midst of the world, they are known as the most pious – they are rare indeed. ||1||

Guru Arjan Dev Ji is a great Guru (Professor of Gurmat), researcher and Chief Editor of a famous Universal Spiritual Journal – Adi Granth Sahib, which gave birth to the Guru Granth Sahib in 1609.

Guru Ji’s prescribed of Research Methodology is the digest of the outcome of the life experiences of Sikh Gurus, Bhagats, Mahapurakhs and Gurmukhs.

As a humble academic, I value and love Guru Arjan Dev Ji for his guidance and supervision on Gurmat Path (Marg).

https://gurmatvichaar.home.blog/
———————————————————————–

Kirpal Singh

Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Sikhi is a ‘Marg’ (Path) to be travelled with Sants (Gurus, Bhaghats, Mahapurakhs and Gurmukhs/Gursikhs) – with the help of Bani in the Guru Granth Sahib, which provides the Gurmat necessary to acquire NAAM. No rituals help in this ‘Marg’. Only rare and Vadbhagi have the awareness of this ‘Marag’.

ਸੰਤ ਕਾ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਧਰਮ ਕੀ ਪਉੜੀ ਕੋ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਪਾਏ ॥ ਕੋਟਿ ਜਨਮ ਕੇ ਕਿਲਬਿਖ ਨਾਸੇ ਹਰਿ ਚਰਣੀ ਚਿਤੁ ਲਾਏ ॥੨॥ (Raag Sorath Guru Arjan Dev, GGS. 622-1).
The way of the Saints is the ladder of righteous living, found only by great good fortune. The sins of millions of incarnations are washed away, by focusing your consciousness on the Lord’s feet. ||2||

ਉਸਤਤਿ ਕਰਹੁ ਸਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਅਪਨੇ ਜਿਨਿ ਪੂਰੀ ਕਲ ਰਾਖੀ ॥ ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਸਭਿ ਭਏ ਪਵਿਤ੍ਰਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਖੀ ॥੩॥
So sing the Praises of your God forever; His almighty power is perfect. All beings and creatures are purified, listening to the True Teachings of the True Guru. ||3||

ਬਿਘਨ ਬਿਨਾਸਨ ਸਭਿ ਦੁਖ ਨਾਸਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਦ੍ਰਿੜਾਇਆ ॥ ਖੋਏ ਪਾਪ ਭਏ ਸਭਿ ਪਾਵਨ ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਖਿ ਘਰਿ ਆਇਆ ॥੪॥੩॥੫੩॥
The True Guru has implanted the Naam, the Name of the Lord, within me; it is the Eliminator of obstructions, the Destroyer of all pains. All of my sins were erased, and I have been purified; servant Nanak has returned to his home of peace. ||4||3||53||

All our Gurus were engrossed in Naam and they all promoted the value and importance of Naam in the entire Guru Granth Sahib. Certain scholars keep asking what is Naam? And whether it is unique in Sikhi. They cannot get answer to such questions without understanding the simple messages in Gurbani, which are easily understandable to a lay person. Some are worried about correct interpretation of Gurbani in English to their liking (unfortunately such people will accept only if the interpretation in only in their words). All such discussions on GL-Z are out of ignorance arising from doubts and fears in life. There is a suggested guideline in the Gurbani as experienced by Kabir Ji (pls read the full shabd):-

ਹਮਰਾ ਭਰਮੁ ਗਇਆ ਭਉ ਭਾਗਾ ॥ ਜਬ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਚਿਤੁ ਲਾਗਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Sorath Bhagat Kabir, GGS, 655-3).
My doubts were removed, and my fear ran away, When my consciousness became attached to the Lord’s Name. ||1||Pause||
………………………
ਕਥਨੀ ਕਹਿ ਭਰਮੁ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥ ਸਭ ਕਥਿ ਕਥਿ ਰਹੀ ਲੁਕਾਈ ॥
By preaching sermons, one’s doubt is not dispelled, Everyone is tired of preaching and teaching.

ਜਾ ਕਉ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਆਪਿ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥ ਤਾ ਕੇ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਰਹਿਆ ਸਮਾਈ ॥੩॥
The Lord causes the Gurmukh to understand; His heart remains permeated with the Lord. ||3||

Sikhi Marg is concerned with our inner-self only:

“so bauraa jo aap naa pachhaanay—aap pachhanay taa aikay jaanay”.

The source of the realization of truth is within man; he himself is the object of his realization
(by Sufi Hazrat Inayat Khan).

Guru Arjan Dev Ji suggests some Jumpstarts in Sikhi Marg for everyone irrespective of educational or social background in life :-

1. ‘Parbrahm jin sach kar jata, Nanak so jan sach samata’. What is recommended is total faith and trust in Waheguru in the like of Dhru-Prahlad.

2.’Prab ke simran man ki mel jae’ – to achieve a sense of discrimination with the loss personal ego/houmai.

Looking for exclusive uniqueness in Sikhi or in any religion is like showing our personal weakness. All religions are unique with respect to their own times; and the Divinity is a common denominator in all faiths.

To talk of “uniqueness” in any religion amounts to misleading others. There is need to talk about what is common in different religions and faiths.

Sikhs should be happy that the ‘Sikhi Marg’ is tested and lived by our ten Gurus and Mahapurakhs and Gurmukhs/Gursikhs.

‘Gurbani eis jag mein chanan’ and ‘Prab ka simran sab te oocha’. – Gurbani is the light-house and there is nothing more that compares with living a life in Waheguru’s devotion.

A Word on Founder of Sikhi

There could be two answers to this interesting question – one representing the spiritual aspect and the other prevalent historical considerations.

I shall go backward from Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Guru Nanak Sahib to throw some light on this riddle?

When we accept that the Sikh Salutation – ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Fateh’ – has the endorsement of Guru Gobind Singh Ji then Guru Ji shifts the bulk of creation of ‘Khalsa’ (an offshoot of Sikhi/Sikhism) to Waheguru. This is also the first indication of ruling out the handy role of his predecessors (other Gurus) as well.

Guru Nanak gives his gratitude to his GURU for His Kirpa, which indicates that who is in the driving seat:-

ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਗੁਰ ਆਪਣੇ ਦਿਉਹਾੜੀ ਸਦ ਵਾਰ ॥ ਜਿਨਿ ਮਾਣਸ ਤੇ ਦੇਵਤੇ ਕੀਏ ਕਰਤ ਨ ਲਾਗੀ ਵਾਰ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak, GGS. 462-19).
A hundred times a day, I am a sacrifice to my Guru; He made angels out of men, without delay. ||1||

Guru Nanak Sahib adds that he is driven by his GURU and with His grace he is able to perform in life:-

ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ॥ ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮਿ ਲਘਾਏ ਪਾਰਿ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-10).
Contemplating the Guru, I have been taught these teachings; Granting His Grace, He carries His servants across.

Guru Nanak Sahib further makes no secret in proclaiming that the Doer is his GURU
(Ik Oankar/Kartapurakh/……..Waheguru) and that any other claim is not of a worthy person:-

ਵਡਾ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਵਡੀ ਨਾਈ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾ ਕਾ ਹੋਵੈ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਆਪੌ ਜਾਣੈ ਅਗੈ ਗਇਆ ਨ ਸੋਹੈ ॥੨੧॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak Sahib, GGS. 5-1).
Great is the Master, Great is His Name. Whatever happens is according to His Will. O Nanak, one who claims to know everything shall not be decorated in the Divine Court.

– ਭਗਤ ਤੇਰੈ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵਦੇ ਦਰਿ ਸੋਹਨਿ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਗਾਵਦੇ ॥ ਇਕਿ ਮੂਲੁ ਨ ਬੁਝਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਆਪਣਾ ਅਣਹੋਦਾ ਆਪੁ ਗਣਾਇਦੇ ॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak, GGS.468-3).
Your devotees are pleasing to Your Mind, Lord. They look beautiful at Your door, singing Your Praises. Some do not understand their origins, and without cause, they display their self-conceit.

According to Guru Nanak Sahib himself:-

ਕਰਣ ਕਾਰਣ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਹੈ ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਬੀਚਾਰਿ ॥ (Salok Sehshritee, Guru Nanak Sahib, GGS. 1353-10).
The Creator, the Cause of causes, is All-powerful. Thus speaks Nanak, after deep deliberation.

One God is defined as IK OANKAR in the Opening Verse/Mool Mantar in Jap Ji Sahib of Guru Nanak Dev:-

ੴ ਸਤਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ਅਕਾਲ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਅਜੂਨੀ ਸੈਭੰ ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥ (Jap Ji Sahib, Guru Nanak, GGS. 1-1).
One Universal Creator God, The Name Is Truth Creative Being Personified No Fear No Hatred Image Of The Undying, Beyond Birth, Self-Existent. By Guru’s Grace.

Further Guru Nanak’s GURU was in existence, now in existence and shall be there in future as well:-

ਆਦਿ ਸਚੁ ਜੁਗਾਦਿ ਸਚੁ ॥
True In The Primal Beginning. True Throughout The Ages.

ਹੈ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹੋਸੀ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ॥੧II
True Here And Now. O Nanak, Forever And Ever True. ||1||

On the ONENESS of God, Guru Nanak Dev further proclaims loudly:-

– ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਏਕੋ ਹੈ ॥ ਏਕੋ ਹੈ ਭਾਈ ਏਕੋ ਹੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak Dev, GSS, 350-4)
My Lord and Master is One; He is the One and Only; O Siblings of Destiny, He is the One alone. ||1||Pause||

ਆਪੇ ਮਾਰੇ ਆਪੇ ਛੋਡੈ ਆਪੇ ਲੇਵੈ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਆਪੇ ਵੇਖੈ ਆਪੇ ਵਿਗਸੈ ਆਪੇ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇਇ ॥੨॥
He Himself kills, and He Himself emancipates; He Himself gives and takes. He Himself beholds, and He Himself rejoices; He Himself bestows His Glance of Grace. ||2||

ਜੋ ਕਿਛੁ ਕਰਣਾ ਸੋ ਕਰਿ ਰਹਿਆ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕਰਣਾ ਜਾਈ ॥ ਜੈਸਾ ਵਰਤੈ ਤੈਸੋ ਕਹੀਐ ਸਭ ਤੇਰੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥੩॥
Whatever He is to do, that is what He is doing. No one else can do anything. As He projects Himself, so do we describe Him; this is all Your Glorious Greatness, Lord. ||3||

Guru Nanak Dev Further reaffirms on the Oneness of his Master/God:-

– ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਹੈ ਅਵਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਭਾਈ ॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak, GGS. 420-16).
My Lord and Master is the One; there is no other, O Siblings of Destiny.

– ਏਕੀ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਬਾਹਰਾ ਦੂਜਾ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਕੋਇ ॥੨॥ (Raag Maaroo, Guru Nanak, GGS. 991-8).
He recognizes none other than the One Lord and Master. ||2||

– ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਮੋ ਕਉ ਏਕੁ ਬੁਝਾਇਆ ॥੫॥ (Raag Gauri, Guru Nanak Dev, GGS. 223-6).
The True Guru has led me to understand the One Lord. ||5||

Though Guru Arjan Dev Ji has a special role in Sikhi as Editor of Adi Guru Granth Sahib, however, he admits that whatever he has said is as per Divine Hukam given to me:-

ਹਉ ਆਪਹੁ ਬੋਲਿ ਨ ਜਾਣਦਾ ਮੈ ਕਹਿਆ ਸਭੁ ਹੁਕਮਾਉ ਜੀਉ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 763-5).
By myself, I don’t even know how to speak; I speak all that the Lord commands.

ਹਰਿ ਭਗਤਿ ਖਜਾਨਾ ਬਖਸਿਆ ਗੁਰਿ ਨਾਨਕਿ ਕੀਆ ਪਸਾਉ ਜੀਉ ॥
I am blessed with the treasure of the Lord’s devotional worship; Guru Nanak has been kind and compassionate to me.

ਗੁਰਿ ਨਾਨਕਿ ਕੀਆ ਪਸਾਉ ਜੀਉ – is a key now to open discussion further.

My conclusion is that spiritually speaking GURU of Guru Nanak Sahib i.e.
Ik Oankar/Akalpurakh (Waheguru) is the founder of Sikhi/Sikh Religion. Whereas, historically speaking Guru Nanak Sahib was instrumental for founding Sikhi and other Gurus, Bhagats and Mahapurakhs contributed their share in building and supporting Sikhi founded by Guru Nanak.

_____________________________

Kirpal Singh

Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

In Sikhi of Guru Nanak, God is known by various names such as: Kartar, Akalpurakh….. and lately as Waheguru (Vahiguru) etc.

Guru Nanak elaborates his God in Jap Ji Sahib as:-

ੴ ਸਤਿਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ਅਕਾਲ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਅਜੂਨੀ ਸੈਭੰ ਗੁਰਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥ (Jap Ji Sahib, Guru Nanak, GGS. 1-1).
Ikoankaar Sathnaam Karathaa Purakh Nirabho Niravair Akaal Moorath Ajoonee Saibhan Gurprasaadh||

There is but one God. His name is Eternal Truth. He is the Creator of the Universe and Maker of everything. He is devoid of fear and enmity. He is immortal, unborn and self-existent; and is made known to human-beings by the grace of a Guru, the Enlightener.|

Guru Ji further adds to Recite/Chant and Meditate on the name of God:-

ਆਦਿ ਸਚੁ ਜੁਗਾਦਿ ਸਚੁ ॥ ਹੈ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹੋਸੀ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ॥੧॥
Aadh Sach Jugaadh Sach || Hai Bhee Sach Naanak Hosee Bhee Sach ||1||

Who is was true in the beginning. He was true throughout the ages. He is true even now and true for ever He shall be.

God of Guru Nanak is Creator of Himself, and He Himself assumed the Name. Besides Himself, He created Nature, wherein He lives and beholds it with delight. He is majestic in the sense that He is first Giver and then Creator (ਦਾਤਾ ਕਰਤਾ ਆਪਿ ਤੂੰ):-

– ਆਪੀਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੈ ਆਪੁ ਸਾਜਿਓ ਆਪੀਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੈ ਰਚਿਓ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਦੁਯੀ ਕੁਦਰਤਿ ਸਾਜੀਐ ਕਰਿ ਆਸਣੁ ਡਿਠੋ ਚਾਉ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 463-4).
Aapeenhai Aap Saajiou Aapeenhai Rachiou Naao || Dhuyee Kudharath Saajeeai Kar Aasan Dditho Chaao ||

ਦਾਤਾ ਕਰਤਾ ਆਪਿ ਤੂੰ ਤੁਸਿ ਦੇਵਹਿ ਕਰਹਿ ਪਸਾਉ ॥ ਤੂੰ ਜਾਣੋਈ ਸਭਸੈ ਦੇ ਲੈਸਹਿ ਜਿੰਦੁ ਕਵਾਉ ॥
Dhaathaa Karathaa Aap Thoon Thus Dhaevehi Karehi Pasaao || Thoon Jaanoee Sabhasai Dhae Laisehi Jindh Kavaao ||

ਕਰਿ ਆਸਣੁ ਡਿਠੋ ਚਾਉ ॥੧॥
Kar Aasan Dditho Chaao ||1||

God of Guru Nanak Himself is the Primal Truth, beauty and Bliss Eternal:-

ਸਤਿ ਸੁਹਾਣੁ ਸਦਾ ਮਨਿ ਚਾਉ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 4-16).
Sath Suhaan Sadhaa Man Chaao ||

The bond with Guru Nanak’s God is established through His praises as advised by Guru Ji:-

– ਨਾਨਕੁ ਆਖੈ ਏਹੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ ਸਿਫਤੀ ਗੰਢੁ ਪਵੈ ਦਰਬਾਰਿ ॥੨॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 143-13).
Naanak Aakhai Eaehu Beechaar || Sifathee Gandt Pavai Dharabaar ||2||

God of Guru Nanak is also accessible only through God’s Grace only with the loss of one’s ego through Sabd. Whereas all other boastful means are vain and false:-

– ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰੀ ਪਾਈਐ ਕੂੜੀ ਕੂੜੈ ਠੀਸ ॥੩੨॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 7-8).
Naanak Nadharee Paaeeai Koorree Koorrai Thees ||32||

– ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇ ਸੋ ਪਾਏ ॥ ਆਸ ਅੰਦੇਸੇ ਤੇ ਨਿਹਕੇਵਲੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਜਲਾਏ ॥੨॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 468-1).
Naanak Nadhar Karae So Paaeae || Aas Andhaesae Thae Nihakaeval Houmai Sabadh Jalaaeae ||2||

Whosoever comes to know of Guru Nanak’s God end up becoming like Him:-

– ਜਿਨਿ ਜਾਤਾ ਸੋ ਤਿਸ ਹੀ ਜੇਹਾ ॥ ਅਤਿ ਨਿਰਮਾਇਲੁ ਸੀਝਸਿ ਦੇਹਾ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 931-3).
Jin Jaathaa So This Hee Jaehaa || Ath Niramaaeil Seejhas Dhaehaa ||

God of Guru Nanak is the relisher, Himself the relish, Himself the enjoyer as well. He Himself is the bride and is Himself the spouse in bed with her. He is my Master who is immersed in love, pervades everywhere:-

– ਆਪੇ ਰਸੀਆ ਆਪਿ ਰਸੁ ਆਪੇ ਰਾਵਣਹਾਰੁ ॥ ਆਪੇ ਹੋਵੈ ਚੋਲੜਾ ਆਪੇ ਸੇਜ ਭਤਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 23-10).
Aapae Raseeaa Aap Ras Aapae Raavanehaar || Aapae Hovai Cholarraa Aapae Saej Bhathaar ||1||

ਰੰਗਿ ਰਤਾ ਮੇਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਰਵਿ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Rang Rathaa Maeraa Saahib Rav Rehiaa Bharapoor ||1|| Rehaao ||

Guru Nanak’s God is true and He alone knows how great He is; and no one equals Him. Guru Ji gets a glimpse of His greatness in His Sabd/Naam:-

– ਤੁਮ ਸਾਚੇ ਹਮ ਤੁਮ ਹੀ ਰਾਚੇ ਸਬਦਿ ਭੇਦਿ ਫੁਨਿ ਸਾਚੇ ॥ (Raag Sorath M. 1, GGS. 597-2).
Thum Saachae Ham Thum Hee Raachae Sabadh Bhaedh Fun Saachae ||

ਅਹਿਨਿਸਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਰਤੇ ਸੇ ਸੂਚੇ ਮਰਿ ਜਨਮੇ ਸੇ ਕਾਚੇ ॥੩॥
Ahinis Naam Rathae Sae Soochae Mar Janamae Sae Kaachae ||3||

ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਦੀਸੈ ਕਿਸੁ ਸਾਲਾਹੀ ਤਿਸਹਿ ਸਰੀਕੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ॥
Avar N Dheesai Kis Saalaahee Thisehi Sareek N Koee ||

ਪ੍ਰਣਵਤਿ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਦਾਸਨਿ ਦਾਸਾ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਸੋਈ ॥੪॥੫॥
Pranavath Naanak Dhaasan Dhaasaa Guramath Jaaniaa Soee ||4||5||

The Will of Guru Nanak’s God pervades all the worlds, as all creation is born of Him through His Command:-

ਏਕੋ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਵਰਤੈ ਸਭ ਲੋਈ ॥ ਏਕਸੁ ਤੇ ਸਭ ਓਪਤਿ ਹੋਈ ॥੭॥ (Raag Gauri M. 1, GGS. 223-7).
Eaeko Hukam Varathai Sabh Loee || Eaekas Thae Sabh Oupath Hoee ||7||

God alone kills the beings in His Will and restores life to them if He so wills. None else can fashion, sustain and protect them. All are His Mercy:-

– ਜੀਆ ਮਾਰਿ ਜੀਵਾਲੇ ਸੋਈ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ਰਖੈ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 150-1).
Jeeaa Maar Jeevaalae Soee Avar N Koee Rakhai ||

– ਆਪੇ ਭਾਂਡੇ ਸਾਜਿਅਨੁ ਆਪੇ ਪੂਰਣੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਇਕਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੀ ਦੁਧੁ ਸਮਾਈਐ ਇਕਿ ਚੁਲ੍ਹ੍ਹੈ ਰਹਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਚੜੇ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 475-5).
Aapae Bhaanddae Saajian Aapae Pooran Dhaee || Eikanhee Dhudhh Samaaeeai Eik Chulhai Rehanih Charrae ||

ਇਕਿ ਨਿਹਾਲੀ ਪੈ ਸਵਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਇਕਿ ਉਪਰਿ ਰਹਨਿ ਖੜੇ ॥ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਸਵਾਰੇ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਕਉ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇ ॥੧॥
Eik Nihaalee Pai Savanih Eik Oupar Rehan Kharrae || Thinhaa Savaarae Naanakaa Jinh Ko Nadhar Karae ||1||

God of Guru Nanak is infinite and pervades everywhere and drives all under His Will/Hukam. Divine union can be through a true Guru:-

ਕੁਦਰਤਿ ਕਰਨੈਹਾਰ ਅਪਾਰਾ ॥ ਕੀਤੇ ਕਾ ਨਾਹੀ ਕਿਹੁ ਚਾਰਾ ॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 1042-15).
Kudharath Karanaihaar Apaaraa || Keethae Kaa Naahee Kihu Chaaraa ||

ਜੀਅ ਉਪਾਇ ਰਿਜਕੁ ਦੇ ਆਪੇ ਸਿਰਿ ਸਿਰਿ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਚਲਾਇਆ ॥੧॥
Jeea Oupaae Rijak Dhae Aapae Sir Sir Hukam Chalaaeiaa ||1||

ਹੁਕਮੁ ਚਲਾਇ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰੇ ॥ ਕਿਸੁ ਨੇੜੈ ਕਿਸੁ ਆਖਾਂ ਦੂਰੇ ॥
Hukam Chalaae Rehiaa Bharapoorae || Kis Naerrai Kis Aakhaan Dhoorae ||

ਗੁਪਤ ਪ੍ਰਗਟ ਹਰਿ ਘਟਿ ਘਟਿ ਦੇਖਹੁ ਵਰਤੈ ਤਾਕੁ ਸਬਾਇਆ ॥੨॥
Gupath Pragatt Har Ghatt Ghatt Dhaekhahu Varathai Thaak Sabaaeiaa ||2||

ਜਿਸ ਕਉ ਮੇਲੇ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਮਾਏ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਏ ॥
Jis Ko Maelae Surath Samaaeae || Gur Sabadhee Har Naam Dhhiaaeae ||

ਆਨਦ ਰੂਪ ਅਨੂਪ ਅਗੋਚਰ ਗੁਰ ਮਿਲਿਐ ਭਰਮੁ ਜਾਇਆ ॥੩॥
Aanadh Roop Anoop Agochar Gur Miliai Bharam Jaaeiaa ||3||

Guru Nanak’s God is the only deliverer and forgiver:-

ਆਗੈ ਪੂਛ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਜਿਸੁ ਬੇਲੀ ਗੁਰੁ ਕਰਤਾਰੁ ॥ ਆਪਿ ਛਡਾਏ ਛੁਟੀਐ ਆਪੇ ਬਖਸਣਹਾਰੁ ॥੨॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 62-19).
Aagai Pooshh N Hovee Jis Baelee Gur Karathaar || Aap Shhaddaaeae Shhutteeai Aapae Bakhasanehaar ||2||

Everything happens with Will of Guru Nanak’s God who dominates everywhere and in everything, here and hereafter:-

ਤੁਧੁ ਬਿਨੁ ਦੂਜੀ ਨਾਹੀ ਜਾਇ ॥ ਜੋ ਕਿਛੁ ਵਰਤੈ ਸਭ ਤੇਰੀ ਰਜਾਇ ॥੧॥(Raag Gauri M. 1, GGS. 151-8).
Thudhh Bin Dhoojee Naahee Jaae || Jo Kishh Varathai Sabh Thaeree Rajaae ||1||
Without You, I have other place of rest at all. Whatever happens is all according to Your Will. ||1||

ਨਾ ਜੀਉ ਮਰੈ ਨ ਡੂਬੈ ਤਰੈ ॥ ਡਰੀਐ ਜੇ ਡਰੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਹੋਰੁ ॥
Naa Jeeo Marai N Ddoobai Tharai || Ddareeai Jae Ddar Hovai Hor ||
The soul does not die; it does not drown, and it does not swim across. Be afraid, if you have any fear, other than the Fear of God.

ਡਰਿ ਡਰਿ ਡਰਣਾ ਮਨ ਕਾ ਸੋਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Ddar Ddar Ddaranaa Man Kaa Sor ||1|| Rehaao ||
Afraid of fear, and living in fear, the mind is held in tumult. ||1||Pause||

ਜਿਨਿ ਕਿਛੁ ਕੀਆ ਸੋ ਕਿਛੁ ਕਰੈ ॥ ਹੁਕਮੇ ਆਵੈ ਹੁਕਮੇ ਜਾਇ ॥
Jin Kishh Keeaa So Kishh Karai || Hukamae Aavai Hukamae Jaae ||
The One who created everything does everything. By the Hukam of His Command we come, and by the Hukam of His Command we go.

ਆਗੈ ਪਾਛੈ ਹੁਕਮਿ ਸਮਾਇ ॥੨॥
Aagai Paashhai Hukam Samaae ||2||
Before and after, His Command is pervading. ||2||

Guru Nanak’s God brings salvation to him as a guide and protector in his life:-

ਗੁਰੁ ਪਉੜੀ ਬੇੜੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੁ ਤੁਲਹਾ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 17-13).
Gur Pourree Baerree Guroo Gur Thulehaa Har Naao ||
The Guru is the Ladder, the Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Raft to take me to the Lord’s Name.

ਗੁਰੁ ਸਰੁ ਸਾਗਰੁ ਬੋਹਿਥੋ ਗੁਰੁ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਦਰੀਆਉ ॥
Gur Sar Saagar Bohithho Gur Theerathh Dhareeaao ||
The Guru is the Boat to carry me across the world-ocean; the Guru is the Sacred Shrine of Pilgrimage, the Guru is the Holy River.

ਜੇ ਤਿਸੁ ਭਾਵੈ ਊਜਲੀ ਸਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਵਣ ਜਾਉ ॥੩॥
Jae This Bhaavai Oojalee Sath Sar Naavan Jaao ||3||
If it pleases Him, I bathe in the Pool of Truth, and become radiant and pure. ||3||

ਪੂਰੋ ਪੂਰੋ ਆਖੀਐ ਪੂਰੈ ਤਖਤਿ ਨਿਵਾਸ ॥
Pooro Pooro Aakheeai Poorai Thakhath Nivaas ||
He is called the Most Perfect of the Perfect. He sits upon His Perfect Throne.

ਪੂਰੈ ਥਾਨਿ ਸੁਹਾਵਣੈ ਪੂਰੈ ਆਸ ਨਿਰਾਸ ॥
Poorai Thhaan Suhaavanai Poorai Aas Niraas ||
He looks so Beautiful in His Perfect Place. He fulfills the hopes of the hopeless.

ਨਾਨਕ ਪੂਰਾ ਜੇ ਮਿਲੈ ਕਿਉ ਘਾਟੈ ਗੁਣ ਤਾਸ ॥੪॥੯॥
Naanak Pooraa Jae Milai Kio Ghaattai Gun Thaas ||4||9||
O Nanak, if one obtains the Perfect Lord, how can his virtues decrease? ||4||9||

Guru Nanak while showing his closeness with his God goes on to pays his gratitude for enlightening him:-

ਮੁਲ ਖਰੀਦੀ ਲਾਲਾ ਗੋਲਾ ਮੇਰਾ ਨਾਉ ਸਭਾਗਾ ॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 991-1).
Mul Khareedhee Laalaa Golaa Maeraa Naao Sabhaagaa ||
I am Your slave, Your bonded servant, and so I am called fortunate.

ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਚਨੀ ਹਾਟਿ ਬਿਕਾਨਾ ਜਿਤੁ ਲਾਇਆ ਤਿਤੁ ਲਾਗਾ ॥੧॥
Gur Kee Bachanee Haatt Bikaanaa Jith Laaeiaa Thith Laagaa ||1||
I sold myself at Your store in exchange for the Guru’s Word; whatever You link me to, to that I am linked. ||1||

ਤੇਰੇ ਲਾਲੇ ਕਿਆ ਚਤੁਰਾਈ ॥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਕਾ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਨ ਕਰਣਾ ਜਾਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Thaerae Laalae Kiaa Chathuraaee || Saahib Kaa Hukam N Karanaa Jaaee ||1|| Rehaao ||
What cleverness can Your servant try with You? O my Lord and Master, I cannot carry out the Hukam of Your Command. ||1||Pause||

Guru Nanak Sahib expresses his inability to know his God completely to be able to describe the extent of God fully. However, Guru Ji conveys that His God is the giver of all souls and is worth remembering.

ਜੇ ਹਉ ਜਾਣਾ ਆਖਾ ਨਾਹੀ ਕਹਣਾ ਕਥਨੁ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥ (Jap, GURU NANAK, GGS. 2-9).
Jae Ho Jaanaa Aakhaa Naahee Kehanaa Kathhan N Jaaee ||
Even knowing God, I cannot describe Him; He cannot be described in words.

ਗੁਰਾ ਇਕ ਦੇਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥
Guraa Eik Dhaehi Bujhaaee ||
The Guru has given me this one understanding:

ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਕਾ ਇਕੁ ਦਾਤਾ ਸੋ ਮੈ ਵਿਸਰਿ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥੫॥
Sabhanaa Jeeaa Kaa Eik Dhaathaa So Mai Visar N Jaaee ||5||
There is only the One, the Giver of all souls. May I never forget Him! ||5||

Guru Nanak Sahib ends up his inner feelings for his God in the following verses:-

ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 24-15).
Thaeraa Eaek Naam Thaarae Sansaar || Mai Eaehaa Aas Eaeho Aadhhaar ||1|| Rehaao ||
Your Name alone, Lord, saves the world. This is my hope; this is my support. ||1||Pause||
———————————————————————————————————-

Kirpal Singh

Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

No one denys that NAAM is a gift obtained as Divine Virtues on contemplating on GURBANI. However, Nam Japna is simply saying praises of Beant Akalpurak/Ik Oankar by expressing through a wondrous word Waheguru/Vahiguru. It is an expression of one’s humble submission in gratitude to Almighty who is beyond descrption but is a Reality at the same time..

How are you going convince that Guru Gobind Singh was mislead when he said “Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh”?

Guru Nanak Sahib said, “Tera ek naam tare sansar, meh ehea aas ehea aadhar”

Some say that “Sikhs do not believe in Magical Mantrars” – For Waheguru Sake do not say that “Sikhs do not believe” – just say that you do not believe as of today. I do believe with conviction and experience (experienting).

A thorough grasp of Gurbani leads to Naam and that leads to Liv/Simran and that leads to automatic uttering/reciting/chanting the of Source of Gurbani i. e. Ik Oankar/Akalpurakh/Kartapurakh …….summed up in Wonderous Word WAHEGURU/VAHIGURU.

The reverse is also applicable when one starts to call out for Waheguru/Vahiguru (BEANT) for an extended period of time an urge develops to know about Waheguru/Vahiguru through Gurbani and Satsangat. Gurbani says:-

“ਅਪੁਨੇ ਸੇਵਕ ਕੀ ਆਪੇ ਰਾਖੈ ਆਪੇ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ‘॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, 403-15).
Apunae Saevak Kee Aapae Raakhai Aapae Naam Japaavai ||

If one goes into the mode of experiencing the truths in Gurbani (which comes to egoless persons), one is attracted to a Name of God automatically to meet the truth i. e. ‘ਆਪੇ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ’. Please try this then you wiil know the right ‘Name’ as a Divine Gift. It is s not the same as parroting of Waheguru Name. This is difference when ‘Waheguru Name’ emerges as Gurparsad/Grace/Kirpa on going deep into ‘Nit-Nem’ of Gurbani.

Have you ever tried Waheguru Nam Jaap? First try that for some time then give your pronouncement. You may recite and contemplate on the messages of 1st and 2nd Ashpadi of Sukhmani Sahib and Lavaan for about 10 days and then come back to the Forum with your honest experience?

“Gurbani eis jag mein chanan”, – By merely knowing that Gurbani is light-house, one does not see the light. One needs to experience the truths in Gurbani and then share with love with others. Use of computers can give information but not ‘Brahm Gian’ contained in Gurbani.

Nam Japna (reciting the name of Akalpurakh such as Ik Onkar/Waheguru) and Simran leading to liv in order to come to grip with Naam – an awastha where one is experiencing and experimenting with Gurbani (Anubhavi Gurmukh).

Most religions believe in that there is ONE God; whereas in Sikhi there is ‘ONE AND ONLY ONE GOD’ – (“Sab kich aape aap”) as a result ‘Ik’ is placed before Onkaar. The emphasis is that there is nothing but “Only One God”. So why so much time is being spent on this very clear aspect of opening verse of Guru Granth Sahib in developing pronunciations? What is important is the comprehension of the Truth in the message of Guru Nanak Sahib in Jap Ji Sahib.

God has a name to reach out to Him but as we are His small children we may address Him by our chosen names whether are not those represent His attributes or not. He can be attracted even by loving signs as well for that matter.

As a small boy, I never called my father by name but inherently I knew his presence and support and that was the Divine link. I looked up to him and he looked after me. A similar link translates our Divine relationship with God (Waheguru/Vahiguru) who is:-

ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰਾ ਪਿਤਾ ਤੂੰਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਾਤਾ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 5, GGS. 103-12).
Thoon Maeraa Pithaa Thoonhai Maeraa Maathaa ||
You are my Father, and You are my Mother.

ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰਾ ਬੰਧਪੁ ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰਾ ਭ੍ਰਾਤਾ ॥
Thoon Maeraa Bandhhap Thoon Maeraa Bhraathaa ||
You are my Relative, and You are my Brother.

ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰਾ ਰਾਖਾ ਸਭਨੀ ਥਾਈ ਤਾ ਭਉ ਕੇਹਾ ਕਾੜਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੧॥
Thoon Maeraa Raakhaa Sabhanee Thhaaee Thaa Bho Kaehaa Kaarraa Jeeo ||1||
You are my Protector everywhere; why should I feel any fear or anxiety? ||1||

ਤੁਮਰੀ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਤੇ ਤੁਧੁ ਪਛਾਣਾ ॥
Thumaree Kirapaa Thae Thudhh Pashhaanaa ||
By Your Grace, I recognize You.

ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰੀ ਓਟ ਤੂੰਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਾਣਾ ॥
Thoon Maeree Outt Thoonhai Maeraa Maanaa ||
You are my Shelter, and You are my Honor.

ਤੁਝ ਬਿਨੁ ਦੂਜਾ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ਸਭੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਖੇਲੁ ਅਖਾੜਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੨॥
Thujh Bin Dhoojaa Avar N Koee Sabh Thaeraa Khael Akhaarraa Jeeo ||2||
Without You, there is no other; the entire Universe is the Arena of Your Play. ||2||

ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਸਭਿ ਤੁਧੁ ਉਪਾਏ ॥
Jeea Janth Sabh Thudhh Oupaaeae ||
You have created all beings and creatures.

ਜਿਤੁ ਜਿਤੁ ਭਾਣਾ ਤਿਤੁ ਤਿਤੁ ਲਾਏ ॥
Jith Jith Bhaanaa Thith Thith Laaeae ||
As it pleases You, You assign tasks to one and all.

ਸਭ ਕਿਛੁ ਕੀਤਾ ਤੇਰਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਕਿਛੁ ਅਸਾੜਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੩॥
Sabh Kishh Keethaa Thaeraa Hovai Naahee Kishh Asaarraa Jeeo ||3||
All things are Your Doing; we can do nothing ourselves. ||3||

ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਇ ਮਹਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
Naam Dhhiaae Mehaa Sukh Paaeiaa ||
Meditating on the Naam, I have found great peace.

ਹਰਿ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਇ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਨੁ ਸੀਤਲਾਇਆ ॥
Har Gun Gaae Maeraa Man Seethalaaeiaa ||
Singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, my mind is cooled and soothed.

ਗੁਰਿ ਪੂਰੈ ਵਜੀ ਵਾਧਾਈ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਿਤਾ ਬਿਖਾੜਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੪॥੨੪॥੩੧॥
Gur Poorai Vajee Vaadhhaaee Naanak Jithaa Bikhaarraa Jeeo ||4||24||31||
Through the Perfect Guru, congratulations are pouring in-Nanak is victorious on the arduous battlefield of life! ||4||24||31||

We should feel joy in propagating the highest thruths in Gurbani (Nam- Name, Naam, Simran) with joy but through inward experience.

The Sikh Ardas has an important component in saying:-

“Sei piare mel, jinhan milian tera Nam chitt avai” and 10 times we utter ‘Waheguru’ and 8 times wa say loudly “Bolo ji Waheguru”.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji describes an elevated awastha of a Gurmukh in the following verse. It implies that He can have a (Chosen) Name:-

ਏਕ ਚਿੱਤ ਜਿਹ ਇਕ ਛਿਨ ਧਿਆਇਓ ॥ Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Dasam Granth, page 36, line 7-8).
Ek Chitt Jih Ik Chin Dhiaaio||
He Who meditates upon Him with single mind even for an instant;

ਕਾਲ ਫਾਸ ਕੇ ਬੀਚ ਨ ਆਇਓ ॥੧੦॥
Kaal Phaas Ke Boodhe Na Aaio||10||
He doth not come within the trap of death.

There are many promises and directions in Gurbani. Some are highlighted below:-

1. “Birtha kohe na jahe je avai tudh aai”

2. “Toon mera rakha sabni thaein, ta bhu keha kara jio”.

3. “Gur Kee Math Thoon Laehi Eiaanae || Bhagath Binaa Bahu Ddoobae Siaanae”

4. “Parbhram jin sach kar jata, Nanak so jan sach samata”

5. ‘Naam sang ji ka man maneia, Nanak tineh Niranjan janeia”.

7. “Sarab rog ka aukaghd naam“.

8. “Prab ke simran sab kich sooje”

9. “Gobind milan ki eih teri baria, avar kaaj tere kitten a kaam, mil sadh sangat bhaj kewal naam”.

10. “Poorai Bhaag Sathigur Milai Har Naam Dhhiaae”

13. “Manamukh Bhoolae Bikh Lagae Ahilaa Janam Gavaaeiaa”..

14. “Har Kaa Naam Sadhaa Sukh Saagar Saachaa Sabadh N Bhaaeiaa”.

https://gurmatvichaar.home.blog/
———————————————–
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Guru Nanak Sahib is unequivocal in defining Sikhi (the spiritual path for a Sikh) in the light of Gurbani: that one who contemplates on teaching of Gur (revealed to the Sikh Gurus by their Gur that is ‘Waheguru’). The start of reciting and contemplation on Gurbani actually amounts to as receiving the Divine grace to progress on the path of Sikhi:-

ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ॥ ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮਿ ਲਘਾਏ ਪਾਰਿ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-11).
Sikhee Sikhiaa Gur Veechaar ||Nadharee Karam Laghaaeae Paar ||

There is a lot of discussion going on regarding prevalent divisions among the Sikhs. The relationship of a Sikh is vital with Sikhi (Gurbani) in order to live in the Kal-Yug, which has been blessed by the arrival of Guru Nanak Sahib (‘Jag taran Guru Nanak aaihaa’). At times when I find difficulty in comprehending Gurbani, I usually resort to Bhagat Bani to address my querries. Here I take the help of Bhagat Ravidas Ji through his own questions and answers session. The full Sabd is presented for your perusal:-

ਸਤਜੁਗਿ ਸਤੁ ਤੇਤਾ ਜਗੀ ਦੁਆਪਰਿ ਪੂਜਾਚਾਰ ॥ ਤੀਨੌ ਜੁਗ ਤੀਨੌ ਦਿੜੇ ਕਲਿ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮ ਅਧਾਰ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gauri Bairaagan Ravidas Ji, GGS.346-11).
Sathajug Sath Thaethaa Jagee Dhuaapar Poojaachaar ||Theena Jug Theena Dhirrae Kal Kaeval Naam Adhhaar ||1||
In the Golden Age of Sat Yuga, was Truth; in the Silver Age of Trayta Yuga, charitable feasts; in the Brass Age of Dwaapar Yuga, there was worship.
In those three ages, people held to these three ways. But in the Iron Age of Kali Yuga, the Name of the Lord is your only Support. ||1||

ਪਾਰੁ ਕੈਸੇ ਪਾਇਬੋ ਰੇ ?॥ਮੋ ਸਉ ਕੋਊ ਨ ਕਹੈ ਸਮਝਾਇ ॥
Paar Kaisae Paaeibo Rae ||Mo So Kooo N Kehai Samajhaae ||
How can I swim across?No one has explained to me,

ਜਾ ਤੇ ਆਵਾ ਗਵਨੁ ਬਿਲਾਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Jaa Thae Aavaa Gavan Bilaae ||1|| Rehaao ||
So that I might understand how I can escape reincarnation. ||1||Pause||

ਬਹੁ ਬਿਧਿ ਧਰਮ ਨਿਰੂਪੀਐ ਕਰਤਾ ਦੀਸੈ ਸਭ ਲੋਇ ॥
Bahu Bidhh Dhharam Niroopeeai Karathaa Dheesai Sabh Loe ||
So many forms of religion have been described; the whole world is practicing them.

ਕਵਨ ਕਰਮ ਤੇ ਛੂਟੀਐ ਜਿਹ ਸਾਧੇ ਸਭ ਸਿਧਿ ਹੋਇ? ॥੨॥
Kavan Karam Thae Shhootteeai Jih Saadhhae Sabh Sidhh Hoe ||2||
What actions will bring emancipation, and total perfection? ||2||

ਕਰਮ ਅਕਰਮ ਬੀਚਾਰੀਐ ਸੰਕਾ ਸੁਨਿ ਬੇਦ ਪੁਰਾਨ ॥ ਸੰਸਾ ਸਦ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਬਸੈ ਕਉਨੁ ਹਿਰੈ ਅਭਿਮਾਨੁ ?॥੩॥
Karam Akaram Beechaareeai Sankaa Sun Baedh Puraan ||Sansaa Sadh Hiradhai Basai Koun Hirai Abhimaan ||3||
One may distinguish between good and evil actions, and listen to the Vedas and the Puraanas,
But doubt still persists. Skepticism continually dwells in the heart, so who can eradicate egotistical pride? ||3||

ਬਾਹਰੁ ਉਦਕਿ ਪਖਾਰੀਐ ਘਟ ਭੀਤਰਿ ਬਿਬਿਧਿ ਬਿਕਾਰ ॥
Baahar Oudhak Pakhaareeai Ghatt Bheethar Bibidhh Bikaar ||
Outwardly, he washes with water, but deep within, his heart is tarnished by all sorts of vices.

ਸੁਧ ਕਵਨ ਪਰ ਹੋਇਬੋ ਸੁਚ ਕੁੰਚਰ ਬਿਧਿ ਬਿਉਹਾਰ ॥੪॥
Sudhh Kavan Par Hoeibo Such Kunchar Bidhh Biouhaar ||4||
So how can he become pure? His method of purification is like that of an elephant, covering himself with dust right after his bath! ||4||

ਰਵਿ ਪ੍ਰਗਾਸ ਰਜਨੀ ਜਥਾ ਗਤਿ ਜਾਨਤ ਸਭ ਸੰਸਾਰ ॥
Rav Pragaas Rajanee Jathhaa Gath Jaanath Sabh Sansaar ||
With the rising of the sun, the night is brought to its end; the whole world knows this.

ਪਾਰਸ ਮਾਨੋ ਤਾਬੋ ਛੁਏ ਕਨਕ ਹੋਤ ਨਹੀ ਬਾਰ ॥੫॥
Paaras Maano Thaabo Shhueae Kanak Hoth Nehee Baar ||5||
It is believed that with the touch of the Philosopher’s Stone, copper is immediately transformed into gold. ||5||

ਪਰਮ ਪਰਸ ਗੁਰੁ ਭੇਟੀਐ ਪੂਰਬ ਲਿਖਤ ਲਿਲਾਟ ॥ ਉਨਮਨ ਮਨ ਮਨ ਹੀ ਮਿਲੇ ਛੁਟਕਤ ਬਜਰ ਕਪਾਟ ॥੬॥
Param Paras Gur Bhaetteeai Poorab Likhath Lilaatt ||Ounaman Man Man Hee Milae Shhuttakath Bajar Kapaatt ||6||
When one meets the Supreme Philosopher’s Stone, the Guru, if such pre-ordained destiny is written on one’s forehead
Then the soul blends with the Supreme Soul, and the stubborn doors are opened wide. ||6||

ਭਗਤਿ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਮਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰੀ ਭ੍ਰਮ ਬੰਧਨ ਕਾਟਿ ਬਿਕਾਰ ॥ ਸੋਈ ਬਸਿ ਰਸਿ ਮਨ ਮਿਲੇ ਗੁਨ ਨਿਰਗੁਨ ਏਕ ਬਿਚਾਰ ॥੭॥
Bhagath Jugath Math Sath Karee Bhram Bandhhan Kaatt Bikaar ||Soee Bas Ras Man Milae Gun Niragun Eaek Bichaar ||7||
Through the way of devotion, the intellect is imbued with Truth; doubts, entanglements and vices are cut away.
The mind is restrained, and one attains joy, contemplating the One Lord, who is both with and without qualities. ||7||

ਅਨਿਕ ਜਤਨ ਨਿਗ੍ਰਹ ਕੀਏ ਟਾਰੀ ਨ ਟਰੈ ਭ੍ਰਮ ਫਾਸ ॥ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਨਹੀ ਊਪਜੈ ਤਾ ਤੇ ਰਵਿਦਾਸ ਉਦਾਸ ॥੮॥੧॥
Anik Jathan Nigreh Keeeae Ttaaree N Ttarai Bhram Faas ||Praem Bhagath Nehee Oopajai Thaa Thae Ravidhaas Oudhaas ||8||1||
I have tried many methods, but by turning it away, the noose of doubt is not turned away.
Love and devotion have not welled up within me, and so Ravi Daas is sad and depressed. ||8||1||

In the last line of this Sabd, Bhagat Ji makes it clear that without love and devotion for Waheguru, he remains depressed ‘ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਨਹੀ ਊਪਜੈ ਤਾ ਤੇ ਰਵਿਦਾਸ ਉਦਾਸ’. The same applies to a Sikh as well that is without Naam he/she in wilderness whether being Amritdhari, Nirankari, Namdhari, Neeldhari, Radhasoami etc and those with or without kesh.

Since we ALL live in ‘Kal Yug, the imperative spiritual need for a Sikh is clearly amplified in the Bani of our Gurus repeatedly:-

ਕਲ ਮਹਿ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਸਾਰੁ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 1, GGS. 662-18).
Kal Mehi Raam Naam Saar ||
In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Lord’s Name is the most sublime.

ਅਖੀ ਤ ਮੀਟਹਿ ਨਾਕ ਪਕੜਹਿ ਠਗਣ ਕਉ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Akhee Th Meettehi Naak Pakarrehi Thagan Ko Sansaar ||1|| Rehaao ||
Some people try to deceive the world by closing their eyes and holding their nostrils closed. ||1||Pause||

ਕਲਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਉਰ ਧਾਰੁ ॥ ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਮਾਥੈ ਪਾਵੈ ਛਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ (Raag Bhairao M. 3, GGS. 1129-14).
Kalajug Mehi Raam Naam Our Dhhaar ||Bin Naavai Maathhai Paavai Shhaar ||1||
In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, enshrine the Lord’s Name within your heart.
Without the Name, ashes will be blown in your face. ||1||

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਾ ਕੈ ਬਲਿ ਜਾਉ ॥ ਕਲਿਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਜਿਨਿ ਨਾਉ ॥੪॥੨॥ (Raag Kaanrhaa M. 5, GGS.1298-13).
Kahu Naanak Thaa Kai Bal Jaao || Kalijug Mehi Paaeiaa Jin Naao ||4||2||
Says Nanak, I am a sacrifice to those
Who are blessed with the Name in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga. ||4||2||

ਕਲ ਮੈ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਨਿਧਿ ਜਾਹਿ ਜਪੈ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Sorath M. 9, GGS. 632-11).
Kal Mai Eaek Naam Kirapaa Nidhh Jaahi Japai Gath Paavai ||
In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Name of the One Lord is the treasure of mercy; chanting it, one obtains salvation.

ਅਉਰ ਧਰਮ ਤਾ ਕੈ ਸਮ ਨਾਹਨਿ ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਬੇਦੁ ਬਤਾਵੈ ॥੨॥
Aour Dhharam Thaa Kai Sam Naahan Eih Bidhh Baedh Bathaavai ||2||
No other religion is comparable to this; so speak the Vedas. ||2||

– Guru Ram Das Ji traces the path for an elevated and respectable Sikh as follows:-

ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਦਇਆਲੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਗੁਰੂ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 4, GGS. 306-1).
Jis No Dhaeiaal Hovai Maeraa Suaamee This Gurasikh Guroo Oupadhaes Sunaavai ||
That person, unto whom my Lord and Master is kind and compassionate – upon that GurSikh, the Guru’s Teachings are bestowed.

ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਧੂੜਿ ਮੰਗੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਹ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ ॥੨॥
Jan Naanak Dhhoorr Mangai This Gurasikh Kee Jo Aap Japai Avareh Naam Japaavai ||2||
Servant Nanak begs for the dust of the feet of that GurSikh, who himself chants the Naam, and inspires others to chant it. ||2||

– Guru Gobind Singh Ji beautifully summs up the Sikhi and Sikh in the following verses:-

ਸਭ ਕਰਮ ਫੋਕਟ ਜਾਨ ॥ ਸਭ ਧਰਮ ਨਿਹਫਲ ਮਾਨ ॥ ਬਿਨ ਏਕ ਨਾਮ ਅਧਾਰ ॥ ਸਭ ਕਰਮ ਭਰਮ ਬਿਚਾਰ ॥੨੦॥੫੦॥
Know that all the above actions as useless; consider all the religious paths of no value. Without the prop of the only Name of the God, all the actions are considered as illusion.20.50. —–Guru Gobind Singh Ji , Dasam Granth, Page, 15 & 1.6

ਕੋਊ ਭਇਓ ਮੁੰਡੀਆ ਸੰਨਿਆਸੀ ਕੋਊ ਜੋਗੀ ਭਇਓ ਕੋਊ ਬ੍ਹਮਚਾਰੀ ਕੋਊ ਜਤੀ ਅਨਮਾਨਬੋ ॥
ਹਿੰਦੂ ਤੁਰਕ ਕੋਊ ਰਾਫਜ਼ੀ ਇਮਾਮਸਾਫੀ ਮਾਨਸ ਕੀ ਜਾਤ ਸਭੈ ਏਕੈ ਪਹਿਚਾਨਬੋ ॥
ਕਰਤਾ ਕਰੀਮ ਸੋਈ ਰਾਜ਼ਕ ਰਹੀਮ ਓਈ ਦੂਸਰੋ ਨ ਭੇਦ ਕੋਈ ਭੂਲ ਭ੍ਮ ਮਾਨਬੋ ॥
ਏਕ ਹੀ ਕੀ ਸੇਵ ਸਭਹੀ ਕੋ ਗੁਰਦੇਵ ਏਕ ਏਕ ਹੀ ਸਰੂਪ ਸਭੈ ਏਕੈ ਜੋਤ ਜਾਨਬੋ ॥ ੧੫ ॥ ੮੫ ੫॥ Guru Gobind Singh Ji (Dasam Granth, Akal Ustat, Page 19.);

Some people in the world call themselves clean shaven, some ascetics, some devotee, some celibates. Some call themselves Hindu, some Turk, some Shia others Suni Muslim. But the entire human kind/caste should be recognized one. The same One Creator (Akal Purkh) who is merciful, compassionate, generous, providing daily sustenance, and has no other peer or dualism; so we must never accept any duality. To serve the only One is our duty. Akal Purkh alone is the Guru of all. All mankind be taken as one manifestation of Its light.

ਦੇਹਰਾ ਮਸੀਤ ਸੋਈ ਪੂਜਾ ਔ ਨਿਵਾਜ ਓਈ ਮਾਨਸ ਸਬੈ ਏਕ ਪੈ ਅਨੇਕ ਕੋ ਭ੍ਰਮਾਉ ਹੈ ॥
ਦੇਵਤਾ ਅਦੇਵ ਜੱਛ ਗੰਧ੍ਰਬ ਤੁਰਕ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਨਿਆਰੇ ਨਿਆਰੇ ਦੇਸਨ ਕੇ ਭੇਸ ਕੋ ਪ੍ਰਭਾਉ ਹੈ ॥
ਏਕੈ ਨੈਨ ਏਕੈ ਕਾਨ ਏਕੈ ਦੇਹ ਏਕੈ ਬਾਨ ਖਾਕ ਬਾਦ ਆਤਿਸ ਔ ਆਬ ਕੋ ਰਲਾਉ ਹੈ ॥
ਅਲਹ ਅਭੇਖ ਸੋਈ ਪੁਰਾਨ ਅਉ ਕੁਰਾਨ ਓਈ ਏਕ ਹੀ ਸਰੂਪ ਸਭੈ ਏਕ ਹੀ ਬਨਾਉ ਹੈ ॥੧੬॥੮੬॥

The temple and the mosque are the same, there is no difference between a Hindu worship and Muslim prayer; all the human beings are the same, but the illusion is of various types. The gods, demons, Yakshas, Gandharvas, Turks and Hindus… all these are due to the differences of the various garbs of different countries. The eyes are the same, the ears the same, the bodies are the same and the habits are the same, all the creation is the amalgam of earth, air, fire and water.. Allah of Muslims and Abhekh (Guiseless) of Hindus are the same; the Puranas of Hindus and the holy Quran of the Muslims depict the same reality; all have been created in the image of the same God and have the same formation..

ਕਹਾ ਭਯੋ ਦੋਊ ਲੋਚਨ ਮੂੰਦਕੈ ਬੈਠਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਬਕ ਧਯਾਨ ਲਗਾਇਓ ॥
ਬਾਸੁ ਕੀਓ ਬਿਖਿਆਨ ਸੋ ਬੈਠ ਕੈ ਐਸੇ ਹੀ ਐਸ ਸੁ ਬੈਸ ਬਤਾਇਓ ॥ ਸਾਚੁ ਕਹੌ ਸੁਨ ਲੇਹੁ ਸਭੈ ਜਿਨ ਪੇ੍ਮ ਕੀਉ ਤਿਨ ਹੀ ਪ੍ਭੁ ਪਾਇਓ॥ ੯ ॥ ੨੯
ਕਾਹੂ ਲੈ ਪਾਹਨ ਪੂਜ ਧਰੋ ਸਿਰ ਕਾਹੂ ਲੈ ਲਿੰਗੁ ਗਰੇ ਲਟਕਾਇਓ ॥
ਕਾਹੂ ਲਖਿਓ ਹਰਿ ਅਵਾਚੀ ਦਿਸਾ ਮੈ ਕਾਹੂ ਪਛਾਹ ਕੋ ਸੀਸ ਨਿਵਾਇਓ ॥
ਕੋਊ ਬੁਤਾਨ ਕੌ ਪੂਜਤ ਹੈ ਪਸੁ ਕੋਊ ਮਿਤਾ੍ਨ ਕੌ ਪੂਜਨ ਧਾਇਓ ॥
ਕੂਰ ਕਿ੍ਆ ਉਰਝਿਓ ਸਭ ਜਗ ਸੀ੍ ਭਗਵਾਨ ਕੋ ਭੇਦੁ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ॥ ੧੦ ॥ ੩੦ ॥
What if you close your eyes and sit in meditation like a crane/heron; take ablutions in the seven seas- but this way you loose both this world and the next; if one continues to indulge in sinful things, he wastes his life; Let all listen to the truth I proclaim- only he who loves attains the God. Some worship the stone idol and other wear a lingam around their neck; some recognize God in the south and others bow their heads to the west; some ignorant ones worship the images and others worship the dead; the entire world is engrossed in false rituals and none knows the mystery of the Divine. —–Guru Gobind Singh, Akal Ustit, D.G. Page, 14-15.

Here Guru Gobind Singh removes all the doubts and duality between humanity; not only in between Amritdhari, Sahjdhari and Keshdhari and non-keshdhari etc but between every one on this earth.

For me everyone who is linked to a Divine names of Waheguru/Ram/Allah/God… is a Sikh and the Amritdhari, Keshadhari, Sahajdhari etc. are a part of the overall Universal Sikh Community. The Sikhs are in much largeer numbers than we perceive on the basis of statistics that is made available to us through our media.

Reference: ‘Gurmat Saachi Saacha Vichaar’ – by Kirpal Singh, Sanbun Publisher, New Delhi, India, 2014, p. 177-183.
Most translations are from the Internet.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

 

In Sikhi Spiritual Marg there is a crucial factor of nadr/kirpa. We cannot demand but pray to Waheguru to attract HIS attention:-

Guru Arjan Dev Ji emphatically supports the concept of nadr/kirpa:-

ਬਾਹ ਪਕੜਿ ਗੁਰਿ ਕਾਢਿਆ ਸੋਈ ਉਤਰਿਆ ਪਾਰਿ ॥੩॥ (Raag Sri Raag M. 5, GGS. 44).
Whom the Guru takes out, seizing by the arm he crosses the (Sea of Life).

With HIS nadr/kipa wonderous things can happen. Spiritual Exaltation by Guru Angad Ji in Raag Majh is self explanatory

ਅਖੀ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਵੇਖਣਾ ਵਿਣੁ ਕੰਨਾ ਸੁਨਣਾ ॥ ਪੈਰਾ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਚਲਣਾ ਵਿਣੁ ਹਥਾ ਕਰਣਾ ॥ (Raag Majh M. 2, GGS. 139).
ਜੀਭੈ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਬੋਲਣਾ ਇਉ ਜੀਵਤ ਮਰਣਾ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਪਛਾਣਿ ਕੈ ਤਉ ਖਸਮੈ ਮਿਲਣਾ ॥੧॥

To see without eyes; to hear without ears; to walk without feet; to work without hands; to speak without a tongue-like this, one remains dead while yet alive. O Nanak, recognize the Hukam of Akal Purkh’s Command, and merge with your God and Master. ||1||

Guru Angad Dev Ji gives the advice about the understanding and singing of greatness of the Great Lord.

ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵਡਾ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੭॥ (Raag Asa M. 2, GGS. 467-3).
By singing His greatness, the Great Lord/Waheguru is obtained. ||7||

Guru Nanak Dev Ji clarifies in clear terms:-

– ਤੁਮ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਮੇਰੇ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਕਾ ਸੋਹਿਲਾ ॥ ਹਉ ਵਾਰੀ ਜਿਤੁ ਸੋਹਿਲੈ ਸਦਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Sohila Gauri M. 1, GGS. 12-12 & 157).
Sing the Songs of Praise of my Fearless Lord. I am a sacrifice to that Song of Praise which brings eternal peace. ||1||Pause||

– ਹੁਕਮੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਹੁਕਮ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਜੇ ਬੁਝੈ ਤ ਹਉਮੈ ਕਹੈ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥੨॥ (Jap Ji Sahib, GGS. 1-9).
Everyone is subject to His Command; no one is beyond His Command. O Nanak, one who understands His Command, does not speak in ego. ||2||

To say that all operates under the Divine Hukam is not the same as accepting and believing with full faith and trust in the operation of ‘Divine Hukam’. When the latter stage comes then one loses personal identity/ego resulting in as Hazart Inyat Khan says:-

No one has seen God and lived. To see God we must be non-existent.
( Bowl of Saki, January 5, by Hazrat Inayat Khan)

As long as we are conscious of ourselves (egoistic) we still speak ‘Dhur Ki Bani’ (full of toon toon mei mei) and moment one gives up houmai, then the ‘Dhur Ki Bani’ is full of a potential to serve others – “ਤਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਚਿੰਤ ਮਿਟਾਈ” – as given in the following Tuk:-

ਧੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਆਈ ॥ ਤਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਚਿੰਤ ਮਿਟਾਈ ॥ (Raag Sorath M. 5, GGS. 628-2).
The Bani of His Word emanated from the Primal Lord. It eradicates all anxiety.

Just to take examples – What about Bhai Jetha Ji and Har Kishan Ji who rose to Gurudom with humble beginning and as a child respectively. Where did they receive their educational qualifications (and that too in science) to become part of 10 Sikh Gurus?

Unless one accepts the various Gurmat terms in principle, their attempts to translate Gurbani or put forward twisted Gurmat Philosophies are simply futile and misleading the innocent masses.

There is need to elaborate, the meaning of the following verses and the arising consequences?:-

1. ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੈ ਸਿਮਰਨਿ ਸਭੁ ਕਿਛੁ ਸੁਝੈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 263-2).
In the remembrance of God, all things are known.

2. ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨ ਮਹਿ ਆਪਿ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰਾ ॥(Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 263-18).
In the remembrance of the Lord, He Himself is prevailing.

3. ਹਰਿ ਸੇਵਾ ਮੁਖਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, GGS. 375-4).
Serving the Lord, the Ambrosial Naam comes into one’s mouth. ||1||

It is the qualification of Naam that makes all the difference!

“Prab ka simran sab te oocha” – does it stand on its own or there are strings attached?

I believe that a certain degree of anubhav of Gurbani is essential for correct interpretation of Gurbani as well as writing of Sikh History involving Sikh Gurus and Gurmukhs.

Such a prerequisite applies to the holders of Sikh Chairs in India and or on the Diaspora to capture the spirit of Sikhi through their works. In the absence of following a close direction of Gurbani, one is bound to make slips and mistakes here and there.

There is dire need for a single interpretation of Gurbani, which meets in its real perspectives – the true spirit of Gurbani. Any such attempt to bring clarity in interpreting the Gurbani will be a Divine Sewa (service) and this requires ‘Anubhav’ (intuition) on the part of those involved in this exercise.

In other words correct interpretations belong to first ‘Anubhavis’, who have experienced the Divine Truths in their daily lives. The role of experts in linguists follows. Interpretation is not the job of one person; it will be the collective efforts of all enlightened and dedicated Gursikhs. I am sure that there are Sikhs around who are enjoying Nadr/Kirpa/Mehr/Grace/Gurparsad of Waheguru to undertake this task.

Sikhi is all about connecting with Waheguru through our Gurus (Sabd-guru/Gurbani). So it is imperative for one to connect first with our Gurus in order to subsequently connect with THE GURU (Waheguru) of our Gurus. To be at a more or less same wavelength with our Gurus, an anubhav (a developed Gurmat intuition by experiencing the truths and promises in Gurbani) to pave way to better understanding the thought pattern of Sikh Gurus – essential for interpreting Gurbani or writing of History of Sikh Gurus.

For Example, in order to interpret the following verse, a number of interpretation can be offered by literary individuals:-

ਨਾਮ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GSS. 281-11).
One whose mind accepts the Company of the Naam,

ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨਹਿ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਜਾਨਿਆ ॥੩॥
The Name of the Lord, O Nanak, knows the Immaculate Lord. ||3||

An Anubhavi will interpret in the light of Naam, which one has actually experienced in order to have glimpse of Niranjan (Divine Sojhee).

Without anubhav (Divine Sojhee/Intuition), all interpretations of Gurbani and History writings shall lack Gurmat direction in one way or the other. Therefore, all the Sikh Chairs holders are called upon to first grasp Gurbani in real perspective before embarking on their respective Theses and Publications.

Many attempts have been made to understand the real meanings of Gurbani, Many such attempts are based on the varied use of ‘laggaans and mattraas’ in exploring the essence of Gurbani. Such translations are worthy attempts but fall short of capturing the true spirit in the messages conveyed through Gurbani.

Any further attempts to try to dig in Gurbani has to be by those who also have the ‘anubhav’ (self realization/experience ) of Gurbani by having lived the life according to Gurbani in order to make a real difference.

Let us consider further take two more examples:-

1. “Toon mera rakha sabni thaein” – a literal meaning will be somewhat like of that ‘Waheguru is there to look after us everywhere’.

An Anubhavi will be able to give instances to prove that how, when and where Waheguru was there with him/her to provide Divine Guidance and Protection. There could be endless narrations coming from a Guru-Sikh with Anubhav.

2. “Prab ka simrn sab te oochaa’ – a literal meaning is of the like of that ‘there is no act as good as remembering Waheguru’.

An Anbhavi will give detailed account of the ‘ras’ of simran of Waheguru and its blessings achieved in one’s transformation. Examples of all the Gurus, Bhagats and Mahapurakhs who enjoyed the blissful state of simran of Waheguru are there as guiding posts.

Guru Nanak Sahib’s advice in Asa Ki Vaar clearly gives guidance in terms of some prerequisites in understanding Divine Truths (Gurbani).

There is scope for such a possibility on contemplating of Gurbani with Divine Nadr/Grace/Gurparsad:-

ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇ ਜੇ ਆਪਣੀ ਆਪੇ ਲਏ ਰਲਾਇ ਜੀਉ ॥੧੪॥(Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 72-13).
If Waheguru casts His Glance of Grace, He unites us with Himself. ||14||

The overall Methodology of Interpreting Gurbani falls in the framework as laid down by Guru Nanak Sahib:-

1. ਸਚੁ ਤਾ ਪਰੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਜਾ ਰਿਦੈ ਸਚਾ ਹੋਇ ॥ Raag Asa M. 1, 468-8).
One knows the Truth only when the Truth is in his heart.

ਕੂੜ ਕੀ ਮਲੁ ਉਤਰੈ ਤਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਹਛਾ ਧੋਇ ॥
The filth of falsehood departs, and the body is washed clean.

2. ਸਚੁ ਤਾ ਪਰੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਜਾ ਸਚਿ ਧਰੇ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥
One knows the Truth only when he bears love to the True Lord.

ਨਾਉ ਸੁਣਿ ਮਨੁ ਰਹਸੀਐ ਤਾ ਪਾਏ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ ॥
Hearing the Name, the mind is enraptured; then, he attains the gate of salvation.

3. ਸਚੁ ਤਾ ਪਰੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਜਾ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਜਾਣੈ ਜੀਉ ॥
One knows the Truth only when he knows the true way of life.

ਧਰਤਿ ਕਾਇਆ ਸਾਧਿ ਕੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਦੇਇ ਕਰਤਾ ਬੀਉ ॥
Preparing the field of the body, he plants the Seed of the Creator.

4. ਸਚੁ ਤਾ ਪਰੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਜਾ ਸਿਖ ਸਚੀ ਲੇਇ ॥
One knows the Truth only when he receives true instruction.

ਦਇਆ ਜਾਣੈ ਜੀਅ ਕੀ ਕਿਛੁ ਪੁੰਨੁ ਦਾਨੁ ਕਰੇਇ ॥
Showing mercy to other beings, he makes donations to charities.

5. ਸਚੁ ਤਾਂ ਪਰੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਜਾ ਆਤਮ ਤੀਰਥਿ ਕਰੇ ਨਿਵਾਸੁ ॥
One knows the Truth only when he dwells in the sacred shrine of pilgrimage of his own soul.

6. ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਨੋ ਪੁਛਿ ਕੈ ਬਹਿ ਰਹੈ ਕਰੇ ਨਿਵਾਸੁ ॥
He sits and receives instruction from the True Guru, and lives in accordance with His Will.

7. ਸਚੁ ਸਭਨਾ ਹੋਇ ਦਾਰੂ ਪਾਪ ਕਢੈ ਧੋਇ ॥
Truth is the medicine for all; it removes and washes away our sins.

8. ਨਾਨਕੁ ਵਖਾਣੈ ਬੇਨਤੀ ਜਿਨ ਸਚੁ ਪਲੈ ਹੋਇ ॥
Nanak speaks this prayer to those who have Truth in their laps. ||2||

From the above Gurbani Tuks, it is essential that in order to know the Sach (Divine knowledge of Waheguru) one must have Anubhav of Truth as a valuable support to be guided by in Gurmat path (Sacha Marg).

In case of doubt the easiest way prescribed is Ardas- “ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਨੋ ਪੁਛਿ ਕੈ ਬਹਿ ਰਹੈ ਕਰੇ ਨਿਵਾਸੁ”. Most of us do not ask Waheguru when Waheguru has created such a window of promising opening to tap from His abundant resources.

In most Gurduars Asa Ki Vaar, is sung before Nit-nem Banees. The reason being it guides us to understand the realities of life while staying awake to the Divine Truths of Waheguru.

Bhagat Beni Ji shares his experience in this respect:-

ਦੇਵ ਸਥਾਨੈ ਕਿਆ ਨੀਸਾਣੀ ॥ਤਹ ਬਾਜੇ ਸਬਦ ਅਨਾਹਦ ਬਾਣੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkali Bhagat Beni, GGS. 974-8).
What is the insignia of the Divine Lord’s dwelling? The unstruck sound current of the Shabad vibrates there.

‘ਦੇਵ ਸਥਾਨੈ’ – refers to the state with Anubhav of Gurbani where Gurbani produces of some vibrations of certain wavelengths that are identical in all those who enjoy Anubhav of Gurbani.

Efforts of some Gur-Sikhs are praiseworthy but without the involvement of those Gursikhs with Anubhav of Gurbani, the whole exercise could be scratching and re-scratching on the surface of Gurbani when the real ras is in deep layers of Gurbani.

We need to start first and foremost with the exercise of understanding and acceptance of Basics (fundamentals) of Gurmat before embarking on translating/interpreting Gurbani. For evolving or developing a Methodology, I give here under a brief for consideration:-

Gurbani is Divine poetry and to comprehend it one needs to bring oneself to a wavelength as close as possible to the composer. So there is need to evolve a methodology for translating/interpreting Gurbani with a clear guideline out of Gurbani by embracing acceptance of some Basics of Gurmat (Fundamentals) in order to stay in a well defined Gurmat boundaries:-

1. Ik Oankaar – there is one and only one Waheguru (Lord/God). – “IK Toon hee” – though known by various names.
2. Acceptance of Concept of “Dhur ki Bani”.
3. “Nanak ke ghar kewal naam”. (Tera ek naam tare sansar, mei aiha aas eiha aadhaar and Houmai naave naal virodh hei doe na vase ik thaine).
4. “Bani Guru Guru hei bani, vich bani amrit sare”. (Sabd Guru as the guiding vehicle in life).
5. “Gur sikh sikh guru hei, eko gur updesh chalaie”. (Gurus have one Jot).
6. Bani of Bhagats, Bhatts and other Mahapurakhs is at par with Gurbani in quest for spiritual path.
6. “Toon ghat ghat antar sarab niranthar jee, Har eiko purak samana”.
7. Experience of Importance of “Naam Japna” (Waheguru Jaap) and Simran (Prab ka simran sab te oocha).
8. Need and hunger for “Gobind Milan” through Naam.
9. Rising to a state of unflinching (Blind) faith in Gurus and Waheguru accepting that the Gurbani is a collection of guiding Divine Truths for shaping/leading a purposeful life of as a Gurmukh.
10. Significance of Gurparsad/Nadr/Kirpa/Bakhshish/Grace in Gurbani.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji advises on Waheguru Simran:-

– ਸਾਈ ਘੜੀ ਸੁਲਖਣੀ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Bilaaval M. 5, GGS. 819-7).
Saaee Gharree Sulakhanee Simarath Har Naam ||1|| Rehaao ||
Blessed and auspicious is that time, when one meditates in remembrance on the Lord’s Name. ||1||Pause||

Guru Amar Das Ji asks a question and answers as:-

– Q. ਸਭਨਾ ਗਲਾ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਸੋ ਕਿਉ ਮਨਹੁ ਵਿਸਾਰੇ ॥? (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 917-6).
Sabhanaa Galaa Samarathh Suaamee So Kio Manahu Visaarae ||
Our Lord and Master is all-powerful to do all things, so why forget Him from your mind?

A. ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਮੰਨ ਮੇਰੇ ਸਦਾ ਰਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਲੇ ॥੨॥
Kehai Naanak Mann Maerae Sadhaa Rahu Har Naalae ||2||
Says Nanak, O my mind, remain always with the Lord. ||2||

ਸਦਾ ਸਿਫਤਿ ਸਲਾਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਾਵਏ ॥
Sadhaa Sifath Salaah Thaeree Naam Man Vasaaveae ||
Constantly singing Your Praises and Glories, Your Name is enshrined in the mind.

ਨਾਮੁ ਜਿਨ ਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਵਾਜੇ ਸਬਦ ਘਨੇਰੇ ॥
Naam Jin Kai Man Vasiaa Vaajae Sabadh Ghanaerae ||
The divine melody of the Shabad vibrates for those, within whose minds the Naam abides.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Ardas is for keep singing praises of his Gopal (Waheguru) – ਗੁਣ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਗੋਪਾਲ ਰਾਇ:-

– ਬੰਦਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਬੰਦਨਾ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਗੋਪਾਲ ਰਾਇ ॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 683-19)
Bandhanaa Har Bandhanaa Gun Gaavahu Gopaal Raae || Rehaao ||
I bow in reverence to the Lord, I bow in reverence. I sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, my King. ||Pause||

ਵਡੈ ਭਾਗਿ ਭੇਟੇ ਗੁਰਦੇਵਾ ॥
Vaddai Bhaag Bhaettae Guradhaevaa ||
By great good fortune, one meets the Divine Guru.

ਕੋਟਿ ਪਰਾਧ ਮਿਟੇ ਹਰਿ ਸੇਵਾ ॥੧॥
Kott Paraadhh Mittae Har Saevaa ||1||
Millions of sins are erased by serving the Lord. ||1||

ਚਰਨ ਕਮਲ ਜਾ ਕਾ ਮਨੁ ਰਾਪੈ ॥
Charan Kamal Jaa Kaa Man Raapai ||
One whose mind is imbued with the Lord’s lotus feet

ਸੋਗ ਅਗਨਿ ਤਿਸੁ ਜਨ ਨ ਬਿਆਪੈ ॥੨॥
Sog Agan This Jan N Biaapai ||2||
Is not afflicted by the fire of sorrow. ||2||

ਸਾਗਰੁ ਤਰਿਆ ਸਾਧੂ ਸੰਗੇ ॥
Saagar Thariaa Saadhhoo Sangae ||
He crosses over the world-ocean in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy.

ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗੇ ॥੩॥
Nirabho Naam Japahu Har Rangae ||3||
He chants the Name of the Fearless Lord, and is imbued with the Lord’s Love. ||3||

– ਗੁਰ ਉਪਦੇਸਿ ਜਪੀਐ ਮਨਿ ਸਾਚਾ ॥ (Raag Maroo M. 5, GGS. 1077-11).
Gur Oupadhaes Japeeai Man Saachaa ||
Following the Guru’s Teachings, I meditate on the True Lord within my mind.

ਗੁਰ ਉਪਦੇਸਿ ਰਾਮ ਰੰਗਿ ਰਾਚਾ ॥
Gur Oupadhaes Raam Rang Raachaa ||
Following the Guru’s Teachings, I am immersed in the Lord’s Love.

ਗੁਰ ਉਪਦੇਸਿ ਤੁਟਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਬੰਧਨ ਇਹੁ ਭਰਮੁ ਮੋਹੁ ਪਰਜਾਲਣਾ ॥੧੨॥
Gur Oupadhaes Thuttehi Sabh Bandhhan Eihu Bharam Mohu Parajaalanaa ||12||
Following the Guru’s Teachings, all bonds are broken, and this doubt and emotional attachment are burnt away. ||12||

– ਨਹੀ ਤੁਲਿ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਬੀਚਾਰ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 265-12).
Nehee Thul Raam Naam Beechaar ||
– none of these are equal to the contemplation of the Name of the Lord,

– ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪੀਐ ਇਕ ਬਾਰ ॥੧॥
Naanak Guramukh Naam Japeeai Eik Baar ||1||
O Nanak, be a Gurmukh and for once try to sing praises of Waheguru.

– ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਨਾਮ ਸਮਸਰਿ ਕਛੁ ਨਾਹਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, 265-15).
Har Kae Naam Samasar Kashh Naahi ||
There is nothing equal to the Name of the Lord.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਤ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਹਿ ॥੨॥
Naanak Guramukh Naam Japath Gath Paahi ||2||
O Nanak, as Gurmukh, sing the Divine Praises of Waheguru, and obtain salvation. ||2||

Thus, Waheguru Nam Japna (Singing Divine Praises – ਵਡਿਆਈ) leads to Simran (Ateh Pehar Yaad) to Naam (Divine Sohjee) and that in turn leads to Waheguru – “ਵਡਾ ਪਾਇਆ”.

However, there are riders like:-

1. ਸਿਮਰਨ ਤੇ ਲਾਗੇ ਜਿਨ ਆਪਿ ਦਇਆਲਾ ॥ – Simaran Thae Laagae Jin Aap Dhaeiaalaa || (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 263-7).
They alone hold to the remembrance of Him, unto whom He Himself shows His Mercy.
2. ‘ਨਾਨਕ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਪੂਰੈ ਭਾਗਿ’ – Nanak Simran Purai bhaag (M. 5).
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Kirpal Singh

Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com