The Gurmat creates in us an awareness of our ‘Dharam’ (both in spiritual and ethical terms and on ‘Hukam-razai chalna’). There are heaps of people who just stop at this stage of awareness of Gurmat. The increasing awareness of Gurmat stirs up some persons and leads them to the realm of knowledge in which one starts enjoying ‘uchi surti’ and a taste of ‘Anand’.
Further, one become pious with a growing divine guidance. In this awastha one feels a natural sense of elevation in one’s thinking facilities coupled with unusual high degree of awareness leading to ‘Sehaj’. Slowly one qualifies to receive Waheguru’s grace/nadr and feels blessed (‘sito-sita’) with Waheguru and sees Him around and in everybody. At this stage one enjoys blissful experiences full of divine courage and strength in one’s actions, speech and writings.
According to Gurmat the Nam Japna is an important step to open/control one’s mind in order to climb to spiritual heights enjoyed by our Gurus, Bhaghats, Mahapuraks, Gurmukhs and some Gursikhs. The outcome of Naam Japna is beyond comprehension and belongs to some “Virle”. Sadhs, Sants, Brahm Gianis, and Gurumuks etc being Virle ( i.e rare only) cannot be easily recognised when they are always present and around. The riddle is fully explained in the Gurbani: Sadh ki sobha sadh ban aahie” and “Braham giani ki ghatt brahmgiani jane” (Raag Gauri M. 5)..
One needs to be a Sadh/Sant/Brahm giani to know one another. As a result common people will say that there are no such elevated souls because they cannot see them out of their own ignorance. The most positive common thread among the Gurus and the Bhaghats was that of Nam Japna and it was this link which attracted them closer to one another.
No rituals, dress or dietary codes, holdings of positions in religious institutions or related bodies help one to acquire the Gurmat. Basically one receives the Gurmat with Waheguru’s kirpa only and the stating point is daily nit-nem of Gurbani of Guru Granth Sahib and Ardas.
ਅਪਨੀ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਜਿਸੁ ਆਪਿ ਕਰੇਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੋ ਸੇਵਕੁ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਮਤਿ ਲੇਇ ॥੨॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 287).
He Himself grants His Grace; O Nanak, that selfless servant lives the Guru’s Teachings. ||2||
One can easily gauge one’s level of “Gurmat” based on some spiritual and ethical pointers prescribed in the Gurbani, particularly in Pauris on “Khands’ in Jap Ji Sahib and Lavaan.
Gurmat guides us and directs us to – ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਨੁ ਖਟਿਆ ਭਗਤੀ ਭਰੇ ਭੰਡਾਰਾ. This indicates that ‘Naam Dhan’ and ‘Bhagati’ (Divine devotional love for Guru and Waheguru) are just responsible to fulfil one’s needs in life.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji elaborates about Gurmat (i) in the following pankties:-
ਮਾਹਾ ਰੁਤੀ ਸਭ ਤੂੰ ਘੜੀ ਮੂਰਤ ਵੀਚਾਰਾ ॥ ਤੂੰ ਗਣਤੈ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ਸਚੇ ਅਲਖ ਅਪਾਰਾ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 140-14)
Through all the months and the seasons, the minutes and the hours, I dwell upon You, O Lord. No one has attained You by clever calculations, O True, Unseen and Infinite Lord.
ਪੜਿਆ ਮੂਰਖੁ ਆਖੀਐ ਜਿਸੁ ਲਬੁ ਲੋਭੁ ਅਹੰਕਾਰਾ ॥ ਨਾਉ ਪੜੀਐ ਨਾਉ ਬੁਝੀਐ ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਵੀਚਾਰਾ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 140-15).
That scholar who is full of greed, arrogant pride and egotism, is known to be a fool. So read the Name, and realize the Name, and contemplate the Guru’s Teachings.
ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਨੁ ਖਟਿਆ ਭਗਤੀ ਭਰੇ ਭੰਡਾਰਾ ॥ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਮੰਨਿਆ ਦਰਿ ਸਚੈ ਸਚਿਆਰਾ ॥
Through the Guru’s Teachings, I have earned the wealth of the Naam; I possess the storehouses, overflowing with devotion to the Lord. Believing in the Immaculate Naam, one is hailed as true, in the True Court of the Lord.
ਜਿਸ ਦਾ ਜੀਉ ਪਰਾਣੁ ਹੈ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਅਪਾਰਾ ॥ ਸਚਾ ਸਾਹੁ ਇਕੁ ਤੂੰ ਹੋਰੁ ਜਗਤੁ ਵਣਜਾਰਾ ॥੬॥
The Divine Light of the Infinite Lord, who owns the soul and the breath of life, is deep within the inner being. You alone are the True Banker, O Lord; the rest of the world is just Your petty trader. ||6||
Is this not a miraculous that Bhai Jetha an ordinary poor young boy who used to sell boiled black chickpeas eventually became the 4th Sikh Guru who not only left behind spiritual wealth but also financial/economic wealth as well? How can we explain this fete? Is this not as a result of Gurmat (i)?
On the literary side, Guru Ram Das Ji’s composition ‘Lavaan’ alone is par excellence – a story of his own Spiritual experience enumerated in four steps:- gathering of spiritual knowledge of Waheguru; seeing Him around; going into vairag on missing Him and finally staying in liv (Divine connectivity) with Waheguru. Lavaan reinforces the Spiritual Steps (Khands) prescribed by Guru Nanak Sahib in Jap Ji as well. Altogether Guru Ram Das Ji has contributed in all 638 sbds, saloks and chandds in the Guru Granth Sahib.
It is wondrous how Guru Ji without any formal education became an extra ordinary visionary scholar to do many things for the development of the Sikh Community and humanity.
Today the hustling & bustling city of Amritsar is known for ‘Ram Das Sarovar’ and Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple). Amritsar today houses Khalsa College, Guru Nanak Dev University and many other Colleges and Educational Institutions that have produced so many scholarly professors (created Chairs for study of Gurmat), lecturers and researchers and numerous literary works since hundreds of years after Guru Ram Das Ji’s spiritual legacy.
The apex body, SGPC, looking after the affairs of Gurduaras in Punjab runs from the premises of Golden Temple complex with an exponentially growing annual budget rising to Rs. 1000+ crores in; a huge real estate and employing a large task force at different levels. What a remarkable vision for human resource management that Guru Ji left for us!
The Gurmat transformation further extended and continued beyond Guru Ramdas Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji (a blessed son of Guru Ram Das Ji) has been a great gift to Sikhi who was instrumental in contributing the major portion of Gurbani and at the same time in compiling Adi Granth Sahib by incorporating spiritual writings of five Gurus and that of Bhagats and Mahapurakhs to create a interfaith stage for spiritual growth.
Bhatt Keerat acknowledges the Spiritual Wealth of Guru Ram Das Ji and pays a glowing tribute in the following pankti:-
ਇਕ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਭਾਟ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਕੀ ਗੁਰ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੪॥੫੮॥ (GGS. 1406-10)
Keerat the poet offers this one prayer: O Guru Raam Daas, save me! Take me into Your Sanctuary! ||4||58||
Yogi Harbhajan Singh named his ashram after Guru Ram Das Ji and lately the Punjab and Indian Governments befittingly re-named ‘Guru Ram Dass International Airport, Amritsar.
Guru Ramdas Ji’ s transformation is reflected in his Bani as given below:-
ਜਿਸ ਦੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਹੈ ਸੋ ਸਚਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਮੁਖਿ ਸਚੁ ਅਲਾਏ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 4, GGS. 140-2).
Those, within whom the Truth dwells, obtain the True Name; they speak only the Truth.
ਓਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਮਾਰਗਿ ਆਪਿ ਚਲਦਾ ਹੋਰਨਾ ਨੋ ਹਰਿ ਮਾਰਗਿ ਪਾਏ ॥
They walk on the Lord’s Path, and inspire others to walk on the Lord’s Path as well.
ਜੇ ਅਗੈ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਹੋਇ ਤਾ ਮਲੁ ਲਹੈ ਛਪੜਿ ਨਾਤੈ ਸਗਵੀ ਮਲੁ ਲਾਏ ॥
Bathing in a pool of holy water, they are washed clean of filth. But, by bathing in a stagnant pond, they are contaminated with even more filth.
ਤੀਰਥੁ ਪੂਰਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੋ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਏ ॥
The True Guru is the Perfect Pool of Holy Water. Night and day, He meditates on the Name of the Lord, Har, Har.
ਓਹੁ ਆਪਿ ਛੁਟਾ ਕੁਟੰਬ ਸਿਉ ਦੇ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਸਭ ਸ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਛਡਾਏ ॥
He is saved, along with his family; bestowing the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, He saves the whole world.
ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਸੁ ਬਲਿਹਾਰਣੈ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਏ ॥੨॥
Servant Nanak is a sacrifice to one who himself chants the Naam, and inspires others to chant it as well. ||2||
Guru Ji exposure was restricted to Gurmat and he did not gain any professional or higher educational qualification (such as doctorate or MBA etc) from a modern day educational university/institution of the like of Harvard, Cambridge, Oxford…….
So it is evidently indicated that Gurmat – leads to Naam, and Naam leads to Budh-bebik.
It will be befitting if the sponsors of Sikh Chairs in various universities in USA, Canada, UK and India embark on research studies to explore the role of Gurmat in transforming human-beings as is demonstrated in the case of Bhai Jetha Ji who as a result moved from ‘Rags to Riches’.
Finally, it emerges that the Sikh Ardas for Naam Daan is fulfilling and includes all the necessary needs in life (including groceries).
– ਵਿਣੁ ਤੁਧੁ ਹੋਰੁ ਜਿ ਮੰਗਣਾ ਸਿਰਿ ਦੁਖਾ ਕੈ ਦੁਖ ॥ ਦੇਹਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਸੰਤੋਖੀਆ ਉਤਰੈ ਮਨ ਕੀ ਭੁਖ ॥(Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 958-1).
To ask for any other than You, Lord, is the most miserable of miseries.
Please bless me with Your Name, and make me content; may the hunger of my mind be satisfied.
Personally, I find the following message of Guru Ram Dass Ji a torch bearing and very assuring in life:-
ਜਿਨ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਜਨ ਸੁਘੜ ਸਿਆਣੇ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 4, GGS. 450-15).
Those whose hearts are filled with the love of the Lord, Har, Har, are the wisest and most clever people, O Lord King.
ਜੇ ਬਾਹਰਹੁ ਭੁਲਿ ਚੁਕਿ ਬੋਲਦੇ ਭੀ ਖਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਭਾਣੇ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਸੰਤਾ ਨੋ ਹੋਰੁ ਥਾਉ ਨਾਹੀ ਹਰਿ ਮਾਣੁ ਨਿਮਾਣੇ ॥
Even if they misspeak outwardly, they are still very pleasing to the Lord.
The Lord’s Saints have no other place. The Lord is the honor of the dishonored.
ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੀਬਾਣੁ ਹੈ ਹਰਿ ਤਾਣੁ ਸਤਾਣੇ ॥੧॥
The Naam, the Name of the Lord, is the Royal Court for servant Nanak; the Lord’s power is his only power. ||1||
If we keep in mind the following messages: “Gurmat saachi saacha vichaar’ and ‘Gurbani eis jag mein channan’, then there is no apparent or real contradiction in Gurbani.
Some Personal Experiences of Gurmat
At very young age I started reciting Waheguru, Waheguru……on the influence of my mother and the Dharmak (Divinity) lessons at my School. Our School used to open with a daily reciting of a Gurbani Sbad followed by Ardas. I used to walk to my school and back home reciting Waheguru on the way. One day my attention stuck on the following promises in Gurbani that led me to a more focussed Gurmat searching endeavours in Gurbani:-
- ਤਿਥੈ ਤੂ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਜਿਥੈ ਕੋਇ ਨਾਹਿ ॥ ਓਥੈ ਤੇਰੀ ਰਖ ਅਗਨੀ ਉਦਰ ਮਾਹਿ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 962-1).
Thithhai Thoo Samarathh Jithhai Koe Naahi || Outhhai Thaeree Rakh Aganee Oudhar Maahi ||
Where You are, Almighty Lord, the0re is no one else. There, in the fire of the mother’s womb, You protected us. - ਸੁਣਿ ਕੈ ਜਮ ਕੇ ਦੂਤ ਨਾਇ ਤੇਰੈ ਛਡਿ ਜਾਹਿ ॥ ਭਉਜਲੁ ਬਿਖਮੁ ਅਸਗਾਹੁ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਪਾਰਿ ਪਾਹਿ ॥
Sun Kai Jam Kae Dhooth Naae Thaerai Shhadd Jaahi || Bhoujal Bikham Asagaahu Gur Sabadhee Paar Paahi ||
Hearing Your Name, the Messenger of Death runs away The terrifying, treacherous, impassible world-ocean is crossed over, through the Word of the Guru’s Shabad. - ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਲਗੀ ਪਿਆਸ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸੇਇ ਖਾਹਿ ॥ ਕਲਿ ਮਹਿ ਏਹੋ ਪੁੰਨੁ ਗੁਣ ਗੋਵਿੰਦ ਗਾਹਿ ॥
Jin Ko Lagee Piaas Anmrith Saee Khaahi || Kal Mehi Eaeho Punn Gun Govindh Gaahi ||
Those who feel thirst for You, take in Your Ambrosial Nectar. This is the only act of goodness in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, to sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord of the Universe. - ਸਭਸੈ ਨੋ ਕਿਰਪਾਲੁ ਸਮ੍ਹ੍ਹਾਲੇ ਸਾਹਿ ਸਾਹਿ ॥ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਕੋਇ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਜਿ ਆਵੈ ਤੁਧੁ ਆਹਿ ॥੯॥
Sabhasai No Kirapaal Samhaalae Saahi Saahi || Birathhaa Koe N Jaae J Aavai Thudhh Aahi ||9||
He is Merciful to all; He sustains us with each and every breath. Those who come to You with love and faith are never turned away empty-handed. ||9||
On the blessings of Waheguru, the above 4 core messages impacted my mind at young age and that led me into a serious contemplative effort to explore Gurbani knowing that He has been there for me before I was born and shall be therein life (ਤਿਥੈ ਤੂ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਜਿਥੈ ਕੋਇ ਨਾਹਿ ॥ ਓਥੈ ਤੇਰੀ ਰਖ ਅਗਨੀ ਉਦਰ ਮਾਹਿ).
I started realizing that the Spiritual journey of a Sikh though starts with Waheguru Jaap and Nit-nem of Gurbani but the process is long and tedious. Waheguru Jaap and Gurbani do lead one on this path. However, the Kipa/Nadr/Bakshish/Gurparsad/Grace of Waheguru bridges the gap.
At times I get perplexed whether or not I am a Sikh? At an age of 15yrs as a student of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Khalsa Higher Secondary School, Dev Nagar, Delhi, I became an Amritdhari Sikh and remembered all the Nitnem Banis and Sukhmani Sahib by heart. Soon after I sat for a competitive ‘Dharamak (Divinity) Examination conducted by the SGPC, Amritsar on all india basis and I won a place on merit and was awarded a scholarship for two years. All this was enough for me to grow egoistic of my spiritual status among my siblings who were neither Amritdhari nor showed any interest to be Amritdhari.
This brought some discard in the family primarily because I became difficult and demanding. I fell in love with Sikhi and at the same I developed hatred for votaries of other religions and non-Amrithdharis. I got in to a lot of conflict and became an angry person – a non- cooperative and a non-compromising as a person till I struck with the following impressionable tuks in Rehras Sahib and Sohila, which brought a softening attitude in me about others:-
ਤੂੰ ਘਟ ਘਟ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਸਰਬ ਨਿਰੰਤਰਿ ਜੀ ਹਰਿ ਏਕੋ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਸਮਾਣਾ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 4, GGS. GGS.11-1 & 348-4 repeated twice in GGS).
Thoon Ghatt Ghatt Anthar Sarab Niranthar Jee Har Eaeko Purakh Samaanaa ||
You are totally pervading within each and every heart; O Lord, You are the One Primal Being, All-permeating.
ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਹੈ ਸੋਇ ॥ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਚਾਨਣਿ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਹੋਇ II (Raag Dhanaasree M. 1,GGS. 663-8).
Sabh Mehi Joth Joth Hai Soe ||This Kai Chaanan Sabh Mehi Chaanan Hoe ||
The Divine Light is within everyone; You are that Light. Yours is that Light which shines within everyone.
The following verses in Sukhmani Sahib brought an awareness of Gurmat REHAT and the associated responsibilities other than the Sikh Rehat Maryada given at the time of Amrit Chakna”-
ਰਹਤ ਅਵਰ ਕਛੁ ਅਵਰ ਕਮਾਵਤ ॥ ਮਨਿ ਨਹੀ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਮੁਖਹੁ ਗੰਢ ਲਾਵਤ ॥(Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS.269-7).
Rehath Avar Kashh Avar Kamaavath ||Man Nehee Preeth Mukhahu Gandt Laavath ||
He says one thing, and does something else. There is no love in his heart, and yet with his mouth he talks tall.
ਜਾਨਨਹਾਰ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਪਰਬੀਨ ॥ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਭੇਖ ਨ ਕਾਹੂ ਭੀਨ ॥
Jaananehaar Prabhoo Parabeen ||Baahar Bhaekh N Kaahoo Bheen ||
The Omniscient Lord God is the Knower of all. He is not impressed by outward display.
ਅਵਰ ਉਪਦੇਸੈ ਆਪਿ ਨ ਕਰੈ ॥ਆਵਤ ਜਾਵਤ ਜਨਮੈ ਮਰੈ ॥
Avar Oupadhaesai Aap N Karai ||Aavath Jaavath Janamai Marai ||
One who does not practice what he preaches to others, Shall come and go in reincarnation, through birth and death.
ਜਿਸ ਕੈ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਬਸੈ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਸੀਖ ਤਰੈ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥
Jis Kai Anthar Basai Nirankaar ||This Kee Seekh Tharai Sansaar ||
One whose inner being is filled with the Formless Lord, By his teachings, the world is saved.
ਜੋ ਤੁਮ ਭਾਨੇ ਤਿਨ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ਨਾਨਕ ਉਨ ਜਨ ਚਰਨ ਪਰਾਤਾ ॥੭॥
Jo Thum Bhaanae Thin Prabh Jaathaa ||Naanak Oun Jan Charan Paraathaa ||7||
Those who are pleasing to You, God, know You. Nanak falls at their feet. ||7||
The above pankties sized me up and put me in place by shaking my ego.
Next came another powerful quote of Sukhmani Sahib that I had read thousands of times before but this time it came with a stronger message to resolve my dubida (duality) to show a straight path to go forward:-
ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਮਤਿ ਤੂੰ ਲੇਹਿ ਇਆਨੇ ॥ ਭਗਤਿ ਬਿਨਾ ਬਹੁ ਡੂਬੇ ਸਿਆਨੇ ॥ (Raag Gauri M.5, GGS.288-18).
Gur Kee Math Thoon Laehi Eiaanae || Bhagath Binaa Bahu Ddoobae Siaanae ||
Take the Guru’s advice, you ignorant; Without devotion, even the clever have drowned.
To receive – ‘ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਮਤਿ’ is essential but it should not be left to just reading about it (i.e. just reading Gurbani). What is essential is to put the Gurmat in devotional practice (with full faith and trust) – where I was utterly lacking. I realized that by being a university professor of analytical chemistry I could look through Gurbani analytically but at the same time that was not enough till I accept the Gurmat (the direction) with devotion and faith and put in practice in real life.
Another hit struck me on becoming aware of the following message that there is need to make room for ‘ਗੋਵਿੰਦੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ’ for all based on developing a devotional equation with Waheguru irrespective of one’s academic qualifications.
ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਗੋਵਿੰਦੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥ ਪੜਿਆ ਅਣਪੜਿਆ ਪਰਮ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 197)
jo praanee govindh dhhiaavai ||parriaa anaparriaa param gath paavai ||1||
The mortal whether educated or uneducated who meditates on the Preserve of the World, obtains the Supreme Dignity.
The need for a grasp of Gurbani was further strengthened by pankties like the following:-
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿ ਸਰੂਪੁ ਹੈ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਬਣੀਐ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 4, GGS. 304-16).
Sathigur Kee Baanee Sath Saroop Hai Gurabaanee Baneeai ||
The Word of the True Guru’s Bani is the embodiment of Truth; through Gurbani, one becomes perfect.
The most difficult task for me (and perhaps for a Sikh) is as how to become Gurbani
(ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਬਣੀਐ)?
A selection of Gurbani/Gurmat messages in the form of instructions and promises provided guidance to move on to the Sikhi Marg, Some such enlightening pankties are as given below:-
- ਗੁਰਾ ਇਕ ਦੇਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥ ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਕਾ ਇਕੁ ਦਾਤਾ ਸੋ ਮੈ ਵਿਸਰਿ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥II ੫(Guru Nanak Ji, Japji, GGS 2).
guraa eik dhaehi bujhaaee ||sabhanaa jeeaa kaa eik dhaathaa so mai visar n jaaee ||5||
The Guru has given me this one understanding:
there is only the One, the Giver of all souls. May I never forget Him! ||5|| - ਕੀਤਾ ਲੋੜੀਐ ਕੰਮੁ ਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਪਹਿ ਆਖੀਐ ॥ ਕਾਰਜੁ ਦੇਇ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਖੀਐ (Raag Sri Rag M. 1, GGS 91)
keethaa lorreeai kanm s har pehi aakheeai ||kaaraj dhaee savaar sathigur sach saakheeai |
Whatever work you wish to accomplish-tell it to the Lord.
He will resolve your affairs; the True Guru gives His Guarantee of Truth. - ਪੋਥੀ ਪਰਮੇਸਰ ਕਾ ਥਾਨੁ ॥ (Rag Sarang M. 5, GGS 1226)
Pothhee paramaesar kaa thhaan ||
This Holy Book is the home of the Transcendent Lord God. - ਗੁਰੁ ਪਰਮੇਸਰੁ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਣੁ ॥ (Raag Gond M. 5, GGS 864).
gur paramaesar eaeko jaan ||
Know that the Guru and the Transcendent Lord are One. - ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੈ ਸਿਮਰਨਿ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਧਿਆਨੁ ਤਤੁ ਬੁਧਿ ॥ (Raag Gaurhee Sukhmanee, M. 5, GGS 262).
prabh kai simaran giaan dhhiaan thath budhh ||
In the remembrance of God are knowledge, meditation and the essence of wisdom. - ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨ ਮਹਿ ਆਪਿ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰਾ ॥ (Raag Gaurhee Sukhmanee, M. 5, GGS 263).
har simaran mehi aap nirankaaraa ||
In the remembrance of the Lord, He Himself is Formless. - ਸਾਚੁ ਕਹੋਂ ਸੁਨ ਲੇਹੁ ਸਭੈ ਜਿਨ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕੀਓ ਤਿਨ ਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪਾਇਓ ॥੯॥੨੯॥ (Dasam Granth, page 42).
Saach(u) kahon sun leh(u) sabhai jin prem kooo tin hoo Prabh paaio||9||29| |
I speak Truth, all should turn their ears towards it: he, who is absorbed in True Love, he would realize the Lord. 9.29. - ਘਾਲਿ ਖਾਇ ਕਿਛੁ ਹਥਹੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਰਾਹੁ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਸੇਇ ॥੧॥(Raag Saran, M. 1, GGS 1245).
ghaal khaae kishh hathhahu dhaee ||naanak raahu pashhaanehi saee ||1||
One who works for what he eats, and gives some of what he has- O Nanak, he knows the Path. ||1|| - ਕੂੜ ਨਿਖੁਟੇ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਓੜਕਿ ਸਚਿ ਰਹੀ ॥੨॥ (Raag Raamkalee M. 1, GGS 953).
koorr nikhuttae naanakaa ourrak sach rehee ||2||
Falsehood will come to an end, O Nanak, and Truth will prevail in the end. ||2| - ਮਿਠਤੁ ਨੀਵੀ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਗੁਣ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ਤਤੁ ॥ ( Raag Aasaa, M. 1, GGS 470).
mithath neevee naanakaa gun changiaaeeaa thath ||
Sweetness and humility, O Nanak, are the essence of virtue and goodness. - ਨਾਨਕ ਫਿਕੈ ਬੋਲਿਐ ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਫਿਕਾ ਹੋਇ ॥ ( Raag Aasaa, M. 1, GGS 473).
naanak fikai boliai than man fikaa hoe ||
O Nanak, speaking insipid words, the body and mind become insipid. - ਕਰਨ ਨ ਸੁਨੈ ਕਾਹੂ ਕੀ ਨਿੰਦਾ ॥ ਸਭ ਤੇ ਜਾਨੈ ਆਪਸ ਕਉ ਮੰਦਾ ॥(Gauri M. 5, GGS. 274-5).
Karan N Sunai Kaahoo Kee Nindhaa ||Sabh Thae Jaanai Aapas Ko Mandhaa ||
Whose ears do not listen to slander against anyone,Who deems himself to be the worst of all - ਕਬੀਰ ਕਾਮ ਪਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰੀਐ ਐਸਾ ਸਿਮਰਹੁ ਨਿਤ ॥ (Salok: Bhagat Kabir, GGS 1373).
kabeer kaam parae har simareeai aisaa simarahu nith ||
Kabeer, you remember the Lord in meditation, only when the need arises. You should remember Him all the time. - ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਮਿਲਿਓ ਸੁਖ ਬਾਲੇ ਭੋਲੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Kaanrhaa, M. 5, GGS 1307).
prabh miliou sukh baalae bholae ||1|| rehaao ||
I have met God through innocent faith, and He has blessed me with peace. ||1||Pause|| - ਨਾਨਕ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਪੂਰੈ ਭਾਗਿ ॥੬॥ (Raag Gaurhee Sukhmanee, M. 5, GGS 263).
naanak simaran poorai bhaag ||6||
O Nanak, this meditative remembrance comes only by perfect destiny. ||6|| - ਜਿਨ ਹਰਿ ਜਪਿਆ ਸੇ ਹਰਿ ਹੋਏ ਹਰਿ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਕੇਲ ਕੇਲਾਲੀ ॥੩॥ ( Raag Dhanaasree, M. 4 GGS 667).
jin har japiaa sae har hoeae har miliaa kael kaelaalee ||3||
Those who meditate on the Lord, become the Lord; the playful, wondrous Lord meets them. ||3|| - ਮਾਰੈ ਰਾਖੈ ਏਕੋ ਆਪਿ ॥ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਕੈ ਕਿਛੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਹਾਥਿ ॥(Raag Gaurhee Sukhmanee, M. 5, GGS 281).
maarai raakhai eaeko aap ||maanukh kai kishh naahee haathh ||
The One Lord Himself destroys and also preserves.
Nothing at all is in the hands of mortal beings. - ਸਬਦੁ ਬੀਚਾਰਿ ਭਏ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੀ ॥ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਜਾਗੇ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਪਰਹਾਰੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkalee, M. 1, GGS 904).
sabadh beechaar bheae nirankaaree || guramath jaagae dhuramath parehaaree ||
Contemplating the Shabad, we become Nirankaari – we come to belong to the Formless Lord God. awakening to the Guru’s Teachings, evil-mindedness is taken away. - ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਕੈਸੀ ਜਾਣੀਐ ॥ ਜਿਥੈ ਏਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਵਖਾਣੀਐ ॥(Raag Sriraag, M. 1, GGS 72).
sathasangath kaisee jaaneeai ||jithhai eaeko naam vakhaaneeai ||
How is the Society of the Saints to be known. There, the Name of the One Lord is chanted - ਪ੍ਰਭ ਮਿਲਣੈ ਕੀ ਏਹ ਨੀਸਾਣੀ ॥ ਮਨਿ ਇਕੋ ਸਚਾ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਪਛਾਣੀ ॥ (Raag Maajh, M. 5, GGS 106).
prabh milanai kee eaeh neesaanee ||man eiko sachaa hukam pashhaanee ||
This is the sign of union with God: in the mind, the Command of the True Lord is recognized. - ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਨ ਵਿਸਰੈ ਨਾਮੁ ਸੇ ਕਿਨੇਹਿਆ ॥ ਭੇਦੁ ਨ ਜਾਣਹੁ ਮੂਲਿ ਸਾਂਈ ਜੇਹਿਆ ॥੧॥(Raag Aasaa, M. 5, GGS 397).
jinhaa n visarai naam sae kinaehiaa ||bhaedh n jaanahu mool saanee jaehiaa ||1||
What are they like – those who do not forget the Naam, the Name of the Lord? Know that there is absolutely no difference; they are exactly like the Lord. ||1||
The above messages are though clear but not easy to accept, follow and to put in practice. There is need to have a virtual Guru Ji speaking in person to bring the desirable motivation such as provided by the following pankties:-
ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿਚਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਾਰੇ ॥ (Raag Nat Narain, M. 4, GGS. 982-10).
Baanee Guroo Guroo Hai Baanee Vich Baanee Anmrith Saarae ||
The Word, the Bani is Guru, and Guru is the Bani. Within the Bani, the Ambrosial Nectar is contained.
ਗੁਰੁ ਬਾਣੀ ਕਹੈ ਸੇਵਕੁ ਜਨੁ ਮਾਨੈ ਪਰਤਖਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਿਸਤਾਰੇ ॥੫॥
Gur Baanee Kehai Saevak Jan Maanai Parathakh Guroo Nisathaarae ||5||
If His humble servant believes, and acts according to the Words of the Guru’s Bani, then the Guru, in person, emancipates him. ||5||
A feeling of virtual presence of Guru Ji by my side keeps hammering the need for a daily resolve of seriously contemplating on Gurbani to attract Gurparsad in order to grasp the Divine essence of Gurbani (TAT):-
ਸੋਧਤ ਸੋਧਤ ਸੋਧਤ ਸੀਝਿਆ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਤਤੁ ਸਭੁ ਬੂਝਿਆ ॥ (Raag Gaurhee Sukhmanee, M. 5, GGS 281).
sodhhath sodhhath sodhhath seejhiaa ||gur prasaadh thath sabh boojhiaa ||
Searching, searching, searching, and finally, success!
By Guru’s Grace, the essence of all reality is understood.
What is now the ‘TAT’ (Divine Sohjee)? – which is proclaimed as the only divine force in Guru Granth Sahib -‘Nanak ke ghar kewal Naam’ that Guru Nanak Sahib trusts as the greatest force that serves him as his life support:-
ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ (Sriraag, M. 1, GGS 24).
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||
Guru Arjan Dev Ji keeps reminding as well on his own wish, which is handy to bag:-
ਵਿਸਰੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਦਾਤਾਰ ਆਪਣਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੇਹੁ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 762-3).
Visar Naahee Dhaathaar Aapanaa Naam Dhaehu ||
Never forget me, O Great Giver – please bless me with Your Naam.
ਗੁਣ ਗਾਵਾ ਦਿਨੁ ਰਾਤਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਚਾਉ ਏਹੁ ॥੮॥੨॥੫॥੧੬॥
Gun Gaavaa Dhin Raath Naanak Chaao Eaehu ||8||2||5||16||
To sing Your Glorious Praises day and night – O Nanak, this is my heartfelt desire. ||8||2||5||16||
Following Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Ji advice that:-
ਗੁਰੁ ਪਰਮੇਸਰੁ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਣੁ ॥ Raag Gond M. 5, GGS. 864-9).
Gur Paramaesar Eaeko Jaan ||
Know that the Guru and the Transcendent Lord are One.
‘ ਗੁਰੁ ਪਰਮੇਸਰੁ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਣੁ’ – If Guru and Parmeshar are same that it would be easier for me to first befriend the Guru to know the secrets of knowing and reaching Waheguru. The Guru translates the necessity of Divine Connectivity all the time to leading to Divine Pargas:-
ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪੇਖਹੁ ਨੇਰਾ ॥ ਮਿਟੈ ਅਗਿਆਨੁ ਬਿਨਸੈ ਅੰਧੇਰਾ ॥(Raag Gauri Sukhmanee Guru Arjan Dev, GGS. 293)
aath pehar prabh paekhahu naeraa ||mittai agiaan binasai andhhaeraa ||
Behold God near at hand, twenty-four hours a day. Ignorance shall depart, and darkness shall be dispelled.
The light of Gurbani shines and brings an awareness that lifts me up to accept the Truths in all the Spiritual Books and Granths to forge a sense of Universal Brotherhood:-
ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਹੋਏ ਸਚਿਆਰ ॥ਪੜਹਿ ਗੁਣਹਿ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਚਾਰ ਵੀਚਾਰ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 470-8).
Chaarae Vaedh Hoeae Sachiaar ||Parrehi Gunehi Thinh Chaar Veechaar |I
The four Vedas, Holy books and Guru Granth Sahib each claim to be true.Reading and studying them, four doctrines are found.
ਭਾਉ ਭਗਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਨੀਚੁ ਸਦਾਏ ॥ਤਉ ਨਾਨਕ ਮੋਖੰਤਰੁ ਪਾਏ ॥੨॥
Bhaao Bhagath Kar Neech Sadhaaeae ||Tho Naanak Mokhanthar Paaeae ||2||
With loving devotional worship, abiding in humility,O Nanak, salvation is attained. ||2||
This brings one in the realm of Saram Khand or Lavaan #2. The trend of further Spiritual growth can be extrapolated:-
The next step has a waiting period when to get divine inspiration to speak and write as Waheguru directs:-
ਅਗਮ ਅਗੋਚਰੁ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਮੇਰਾ ॥ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਬੋਲੈ ਬੋਲਾਇਆ ਤੇਰਾ ॥੪॥੨੩॥੨੯॥(Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 743-4).
Agam Agochar Sach Saahib Maeraa ||Naanak Bolai Bolaaeiaa Thaeraa
You are inaccessible and unfathomable, O my True Lord and Master
Nanak speaks as You inspire him to speak. ||
Following the above, a Sikh moves to the glorious step when a Sikh experiences like Kabir Ji that Waheguru is not only Ang-Sang but also follows him/her:-
ਕਬੀਰ ਮਨੁ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਭਇਆ ਜੈਸਾ ਗੰਗਾ ਨੀਰੁ ॥ ਪਾਛੈ ਲਾਗੋ ਹਰਿ ਫਿਰੈ ਕਹਤ ਕਬੀਰ ਕਬੀਰ ॥੫੫॥ (Salok Bhagat Kabir, GGS. 1367-7).
Kabeer Man Niramal Bhaeiaa Jaisaa Gangaa Neer ||Paashhai Laago Har Firai Kehath Kabeer Kabeer ||55||
Kabeer, my mind has become immaculate, like the waters of the Ganges. The Lord follows after me, calling, “”Kabeer! Kabeer!””||55||
I realize that the Sikh ‘Spiritual Journey’ starts with Waheguru Nam Japna, Nit-nem of Gurbani to meet a Guru in Parthak form (virtually present ang-sang) and then move along with the Guru firmly in order to know the Guru’s GURU (Waheguru) intimately with love, devotion and utmost humility (total loss of personal ego). This follows leading in to a magnetic Divine relationship in equilibrium with equal pull as experienced by Kabir Ji – an ultimate aim of a Sikh.
There is a promise in Gurbani worth trying:-
ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਜੀ ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 5. GGS. 218-4).
Dhukh Bhanjan Thaeraa Naam Jee Dhukh Bhanjan Thaeraa Naam ||
The Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name, Lord; the Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name.
ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਆਰਾਧੀਐ ਪੂਰਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਗਿਆਨੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Aath Pehar Aaraadhheeai Pooran Sathigur Giaan ||1|| Rehaao ||
Twenty-four hours a day, dwell upon the wisdom of the Perfect True Guru ||1||Pause||
Uttering of Waheguru, Waheguru……..Waheguru comes as a natural consequence of sign of a Divine bond – ਪੂਰਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਗਿਆਨੁ that leads to understanding of ‘Divine Virtues and Divine Hukam’ as propagated in the body of Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Nanak Sahib, however warns to be vigilant of exercising our ego in the Path to know Waheguru who is revealed as per His Nadr:-
ਬਹੁਤਾ ਕਹੀਐ ਬਹੁਤਾ ਹੋਇ ॥ (Jap Ji Guru Nanak, GGS. 6-9).
Bahuthaa Keheeai Bahuthaa Hoe ||
The more you say about Waheguru, the more there still remains to be said.
ਵਡਾ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਊਚਾ ਥਾਉ ॥ ਊਚੇ ਉਪਰਿ ਊਚਾ ਨਾਉ ॥
Vaddaa Saahib Oochaa Thhaao || Oochae Oupar Oochaa Naao ||
Great is the Master, High is His Heavenly Home.
Highest of the High is Waheguru, still above all is His Name.
ਏਵਡੁ ਊਚਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਕੋਇ ॥ ਤਿਸੁ ਊਚੇ ਕਉ ਜਾਣੈ ਸੋਇ ॥
Eaevadd Oochaa Hovai Koe || This Oochae Ko Jaanai Soe ||
Only one as Great and as High as God. Can know His Lofty and Exalted State.
ਜੇਵਡੁ ਆਪਿ ਜਾਣੈ ਆਪਿ ਆਪਿ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮੀ ਦਾਤਿ ॥੨੪॥
Jaevadd Aap Jaanai Aap Aap || Naanak Nadharee Karamee Dhaath ||24||
Only He Himself is that Great. He Himself knows Himself. O Nanak, by His Glance of Grace, He bestows His Blessings. ||24||
Finally, I share the following Gurmat Anubhav of Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Arjan Dev Ji for providing necessary Gurmat guidance:-
ਸਦਾ ਸਿਫਤਿ ਸਲਾਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਾਵਏ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 917-7).
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.
- ਧੁਰਿ ਕਰਮਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਤੁਧੁ ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਸਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਲਾਗੇ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 917-13).
Dhhur Karam Paaeiaa Thudhh Jin Ko S Naam Har Kai Laagae ||
Those who have such preordained destiny are attached to the Waheguru’s Name
ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਤਹ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਆ ਤਿਤੁ ਘਰਿ ਅਨਹਦ ਵਾਜੇ ॥੫॥
Kehai Naanak Theh Sukh Hoaa Thith Ghar Anehadh Vaajae ||5||
Says Nanak, they are at peace, and the unstruck Divine sound current of Waheguru’s name vibrates within them. ||5||
- ਤੂ ਮੇਰਾ ਪਿਤਾ ਤੂਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਾਤਾ ॥ ਤੂ ਮੇਰੇ ਜੀਅ ਪ੍ਰਾਨ ਸੁਖਦਾਤਾ ॥ (Raag Bhaira-o M. 5, GGS. 1144-9).
Thoo Maeraa Pithaa Thoohai Maeraa Maathaa ||Thoo Maerae Jeea Praan Sukhadhaathaa ||
You are my Father, and You are my Mother. You are my Soul, my Breath of Life, the Giver of Peace.
ਤੂ ਮੇਰਾ ਠਾਕੁਰੁ ਹਉ ਦਾਸੁ ਤੇਰਾ ॥ ਤੁਝ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਕੋ ਮੇਰਾ ॥੧॥
Thoo Maeraa Thaakur Ho Dhaas Thaeraa || Thujh Bin Avar Nehee Ko Maeraa ||1||
You are my Lord and Master; I am Your slave. Without You, I have no one at all. ||1||
ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਹੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਦਾਤਿ ॥ ਤੁਮ੍ਹ੍ਹਰੀ ਉਸਤਤਿ ਕਰਉ ਦਿਨ ਰਾਤਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Kar Kirapaa Karahu Prabh Dhaath || Thumharee Ousathath Karo Dhin Raath ||1|| Rehaao ||
Please bless me with Your Mercy, God, and give me this gift, That I may sing Your Praises, day and night. ||1||Pause||
- ਨਾਨਕੁ ਏਕ ਕਰੈ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 742-4).
Naanak Eaek Karai Aradhaas ||
Nanak makes one prayer:
ਵਿਸਰੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਪੂਰਨ ਗੁਣਤਾਸਿ ॥੪॥੧੮॥੨੪॥
Visar Naahee Pooran Gunathaas ||4||18||24||
May I never forget You, O perfect treasure of virtue. ||4||18||24||
Gurmat is grasped through – “Sikhi Sikhia Gur Vichaar, Nadri Karam Lagai Paar” ( M.1).
Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
Gurmat Saachi Saacha Vichaar 