Abstract
Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism, is revered for his courage, spiritual wisdom, and ultimate sacrifice for religious freedom. He was born in Amritsar in 1621, his original name was Tyag Mal. He earned the name Tegh Bahadur (“Brave Sword”) for his valor in battle. He is known as the “Shield of India” (Hind di Chadar) for defending the rights of Kashmiri Pandits against forced conversions to Islam. His martyrdom, at the hands of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is a defining moment in Sikh history. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji contributed over 100 hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, emphasizing themes of God, human attachments, and spiritual enlightenment.
Advocacy for Religious Freedom and his martyrdom:
He strongly opposed the forced conversions of Hindus and Sikhs during Aurangzeb’s reign and ultimately sacrificed his life to protect their religious freedom. Guru Tegh Bahadur was publicly beheaded in Delhi in 1675 for refusing to convert to Islam. He is remembered as a protector of humanity and a symbol of courage and sacrifice. His martyrdom is commemorated as Shaheedi Divas on November 24th (according to the Nanakshahi calendar). Guru Ji was steadfast in his beliefs in human liberty:-
ਭੈ ਕਾਹੂ ਕਉ ਦੇਤ ਨਹਿ ਨਹਿ ਭੈ ਮਾਨਤ ਆਨ ॥ (Salok M. 9, SGGS, 1427).
Bhai Kaahoo Ko Dhaeth Nehi Nehi Bhai Maanath Aan ||
One who does not frighten anyone, and who is not afraid of anyone else

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਤਾਹਿ ਬਖਾਨਿ ॥੧੬॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Giaanee Thaahi Bakhaan ||16||

• says Nanak, listen, mind: call him spiritually wise. ||16||

Among his Legacy, he contributed towards the building of Anandpur Sahib. He founded the city of Anandpur Sahib, which became a significant center for Sikhism, where the Khalsa Panth was later founded by his son, Guru Gobind Singh. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji also traveled extensively to spread the teachings of Sikhism and established community kitchens (langars) and wells for the benefit of the people.

Spiritual guidance about the importance of Gurmat Naam is highlighted by Guru Teg Bahadur Ji as given below :-

• ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਉਰ ਮੈ ਗਹਿਓ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਸਮ ਨਹੀ ਕੋਇ ॥ (Sloak M. 9, GGS. 1429).
  raam naam our mai gehiou jaa kai sam nehee koe ||
  I have enshrined the Lord’s Name within my heart; there is nothing equal to it.
  ਜਿਹ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਸੰਕਟ ਮਿਟੈ ਦਰਸੁ ਤੁਹਾਰੋ ਹੋਇ ॥੫੭॥੧॥
  jih simarath sankatt mittai dharas thuhaaro hoe ||57||1||
  Meditating in remembrance on it, my troubles are taken away; I have received the Blessed Vision of Your Darshan. ||57||1||
• ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਸਦਾ ਸੁਖਦਾਈ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1008).
  Har Ko Naam Sadhaa Sukhadhaaee ||
  The Name of the Lord is forever the Giver of peace.

ਜਾ ਕਉ ਸਿਮਰਿ ਅਜਾਮਲੁ ਉਧਰਿਓ ਗਨਿਕਾ ਹੂ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Jaa Ko Simar Ajaamal Oudhhariou Ganikaa Hoo Gath Paaee ||1|| Rehaao ||
Meditating in remembrance on it, Ajaamal was saved, and Ganika the prostitute was emancipated. ||1||Pause||

• ਭੈ ਨਾਸਨ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਹਰਨ ਕਲਿ ਮੈ ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1427)
  Bhai Naasan Dhuramath Haran Kal Mai Har Ko Naam ||
  In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Name of the Lord is the Destroyer of fear, the Eradicator of evil-mindedness.

ਨਿਸਿ ਦਿਨੁ ਜੋ ਨਾਨਕ ਭਜੈ ਸਫਲ ਹੋਹਿ ਤਿਹ ਕਾਮ ॥੨੦॥
Nis Dhin Jo Naanak Bhajai Safal Hohi Thih Kaam ||20||
Night and day, O Nanak, whoever vibrates and meditates on the Lord’s Name, sees all of his works brought to fruition. ||20||

• ਜਿਹਬਾ ਗੁਨ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਭਜਹੁ ਕਰਨ ਸੁਨਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1427).
  Jihabaa Gun Gobindh Bhajahu Karan Sunahu Har Naam ||
  Vibrate with your tongue the Glorious Praises of the Lord of the Universe; with your ears, hear the Lord’s Name.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਪਰਹਿ ਨ ਜਮ ਕੈ ਧਾਮ ॥੨੧॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Parehi N Jam Kai Dhhaam ||21||
Says Nanak, listen, man: you shall not have to go to the house of Death. ||21||

Guru Teg Bahadur Ji guides us regarding the close vicinity of Waheguru who is accessible on giving up one’s urge for greed (Maya) and self ego (ahankar) etc:-

• ਕਾਹੇ ਰੇ ਬਨ ਖੋਜਨ ਜਾਈ ॥? (M. 9, SGGS. 684).
  Kaahae Rae Ban Khojan Jaaee ||
  Why do you go looking for Him in the forest?

ਸਰਬ ਨਿਵਾਸੀ ਸਦਾ ਅਲੇਪਾ ਤੋਹੀ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਮਾਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Sarab Nivaasee Sadhaa Alaepaa Thohee Sang Samaaee ||1|| Rehaao ||
Although he is unattached, he dwells everywhere. He is always with you as your companion. ||1||Pause||

• ਜਿਉ ਸੁਪਨਾ ਅਰੁ ਪੇਖਨਾ ਐਸੇ ਜਗ ਕਉ ਜਾਨਿ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1427).
  Jio Supanaa Ar Paekhanaa Aisae Jag Ko Jaan ||
  Like a dream and a show, so is this world, you must know.

ਇਨ ਮੈ ਕਛੁ ਸਾਚੋ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਭਗਵਾਨ ॥੨੩॥
Ein Mai Kashh Saacho Nehee Naanak Bin Bhagavaan ||23||
None of this is true, O Nanak, without God. ||23||

• ਜਿਹਿ ਮਾਇਆ ਮਮਤਾ ਤਜੀ ਸਭ ਤੇ ਭਇਓ ਉਦਾਸੁ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1427).
  Jihi Maaeiaa Mamathaa Thajee Sabh Thae Bhaeiou Oudhaas ||
  One who renounces Maya and possessiveness and is detached from everything

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨੁ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਤਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਨਿਵਾਸੁ ॥੧੮॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Thih Ghatt Breham Nivaas ||18||

• says Nanak, listen, mind: God abides in his heart. ||18||
• ਜਿਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਹਉਮੈ ਤਜੀ ਕਰਤਾ ਰਾਮੁ ਪਛਾਨਿ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS, 1427).
  Jihi Praanee Houmai Thajee Karathaa Raam Pashhaan ||
  That mortal, who forsakes egotism, and realizes the Creator Lord

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਵਹੁ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨਰੁ ਇਹ ਮਨ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੧੯॥
Kahu Naanak Vahu Mukath Nar Eih Man Saachee Maan ||19||

• says Nanak, that person is liberated; O mind, know this as true. ||19||
• ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਨਿਸਿ ਦਿਨੁ ਭਜੈ ਰੂਪ ਰਾਮ ਤਿਹ ਜਾਨੁ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 1427).
  Jo Praanee Nis Dhin Bhajai Roop Raam Thih Jaan ||
  That mortal who meditates and vibrates upon the Lord night and day – know him to be the embodiment of the Lord.

ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੨੯॥
Har Jan Har Anthar Nehee Naanak Saachee Maan ||29||
There is no difference between the Lord and the humble servant of the Lord; O Nanak, know this as true. ||29||

Conclusion

In conclusion, the entire Bani of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji beautifully sums up his Spiritual legacy on the Gurmat Guidance for the Humanity. His advices are handy to steer through the life journey in a meaningful way at all stages of one’s life and to achieve the ultimate goal of life i.e. the merger with Akalpurakh. However, Guru Ji cautions us as well about the difficult Spiritual Path (Marg) ,which is accessible only by Gurmukhs:-

• ਬਾਲ ਜੁਆਨੀ ਅਰੁ ਬਿਰਧਿ ਫੁਨਿ ਤੀਨਿ ਅਵਸਥਾ ਜਾਨਿ ॥ (Sloak M. 9, SGGS. 1428).
  baal juaanee ar biradhh fun theen avasathhaa jaan ||
  Childhood, youth and old age – know these as the three stages of life.
  ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਬਿਨੁ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੩੫॥
  kahu naanak har bhajan bin birathhaa sabh hee maan ||35||
  Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, everything is useless; you must appreciate this. ||35||
• ਜਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਰਾਮ ਕੋ ਸੋ ਨਰੁ ਮੁਕਤਾ ਜਾਨੁ ॥ (Slok M. 9, SGGS, 1428).
  jih ghatt simaran raam ko so nar mukathaa jaan ||
  That person, who meditates in remembrance on the Lord in his heart, is liberated – know this well.
  ਤਿਹਿ ਨਰ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੪੩॥
  thihi nar har anthar nehee naanak saachee maan ||43||
  There is no difference between that person and the Lord: O Nanak, accept this as the Truth. ||43||
• ਜੋ ਉਪਜਿਓ ਸੋ ਬਿਨਸਿ ਹੈ ਪਰੋ ਆਜੁ ਕੈ ਕਾਲਿ ॥ (Salok M. 9, SGGS. 1428).
  jo oupajiou so binas hai paro aaj kai kaal ||
  Whatever has been created shall be destroyed; everyone shall perish, today or tomorrow.
  ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਇ ਲੇ ਛਾਡਿ ਸਗਲ ਜੰਜਾਲ ॥੫੨॥
  naanak har gun gaae lae shhaadd sagal janjaal ||52||
  O Nanak, sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, and give up all other entanglements. ||52||
• ਜੋ ਨਰੁ ਦੁਖ ਮੈ ਦੁਖੁ ਨਹੀ ਮਾਨੈ ॥ (M. 9, SGGS. 633).
  Jo Nar Dhukh Mai Dhukh Nehee Maanai ||
  That man, who in the midst of pain, does not feel pain,

ਸੁਖ ਸਨੇਹੁ ਅਰੁ ਭੈ ਨਹੀ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਕੰਚਨ ਮਾਟੀ ਮਾਨੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Sukh Sanaehu Ar Bhai Nehee Jaa Kai Kanchan Maattee Maanai ||1|| Rehaao ||
Who is not affected by pleasure, affection or fear, and who looks alike upon gold and dust;||1||Pause||

ਨਹ ਨਿੰਦਿਆ ਨਹ ਉਸਤਤਿ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਲੋਭੁ ਮੋਹੁ ਅਭਿਮਾਨਾ ॥
Neh Nindhiaa Neh Ousathath Jaa Kai Lobh Mohu Abhimaanaa ||
Who is not swayed by either slander or praise, nor affected by greed, attachment or pride;

ਹਰਖ ਸੋਗ ਤੇ ਰਹੈ ਨਿਆਰਉ ਨਾਹਿ ਮਾਨ ਅਪਮਾਨਾ ॥੧॥
Harakh Sog Thae Rehai Niaaro Naahi Maan Apamaanaa ||1||
Who remains unaffected by joy and sorrow, honor and dishonor;||1||
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ਆਸਾ ਮਨਸਾ ਸਗਲ ਤਿਆਗੈ ਜਗ ਤੇ ਰਹੈ ਨਿਰਾਸਾ ॥
Aasaa Manasaa Sagal Thiaagai Jag Thae Rehai Niraasaa ||
Who renounces all hopes and desires and remains desireless in the world;

ਕਾਮੁ ਕ੍ਰੋਧੁ ਜਿਹ ਪਰਸੈ ਨਾਹਨਿ ਤਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਨਿਵਾਸਾ ॥੨॥
Kaam Krodhh Jih Parasai Naahan Thih Ghatt Breham Nivaasaa ||2||
Who is not touched by sexual desire or anger – within his heart, God dwells. ||2||

ਗੁਰ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਜਿਹ ਨਰ ਕਉ ਕੀਨੀ ਤਿਹ ਇਹ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਪਛਾਨੀ ॥
Gur Kirapaa Jih Nar Ko Keenee Thih Eih Jugath Pashhaanee ||
That man, blessed by Guru’s Grace, understands this way.

ਨਾਨਕ ਲੀਨ ਭਇਓ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿਉ ਜਿਉ ਪਾਨੀ ਸੰਗਿ ਪਾਨੀ ॥੩॥੧੧॥
Naanak Leen Bhaeiou Gobindh Sio Jio Paanee Sang Paanee ||3||11||
O Nanak, he merges with the Lord of the Universe, like water with water. ||3||11||

• ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਇਹੁ ਖੇਲੁ ਕਠਨੁ ਹੈ ਕਿਨਹੂੰ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਨਾ ॥੨॥੧॥
  Jan Naanak Eihu Khael Kathan Hai Kinehoon Guramukh Jaanaa ||2||1||
  O servant Nanak, this is such a difficult game; only a few Gurmukhs understand it! ||2||1||

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kirpal2singh@yahoo.com
Published in the Sikh Review, November, 2025, p.30.

A lot of people from India and other countries have recently thronged into Prayagraj to have a dip in Tribeni during the Maha Kumbh festive season. A large number of Naga (Naked) Sadhus and ladies and gents are seen dipping into the so called holy water without realizing the extent of pollution caused by millions taking bath in a relatively small area when many may be even dropping their body filths (Mul-Mootar) in the same flowing water. I personally visited this spot in January 1948 (after moving to Allahabad after the partition of India)) at the age of 10yrs.It was a pretty embarrassing for me to witness a large numbers of well built naked Sadhus whose bodies were even coated with ash moving around in wide public.

I saw many videos showing the crowds, including some Sikh couples were also spotted who may have gone there for just sightseeing of with their Hindu spouses.

Gurbani gives a clear picture about such pilgrimages with bathing rituals. Guru Nanak Sahib Guides as clearly:-

ਤੀਰਥਿ ਨਾਵਣ ਜਾਉ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 1, GGS. 687-14).
Theerathh Naavan Jaao Theerathh Naam Hai ||
Why should I bathe at sacred shrines of pilgrimage? The Naam, the Name of the Lord, is the sacred shrine of pilgrimage.

ਤੀਰਥੁ ਸਬਦ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਹੈ ॥
Theerathh Sabadh Beechaar Anthar Giaan Hai ||
My sacred shrine of pilgrimage is spiritual wisdom within, and contemplation on the Word of the Shabad.

ਗੁਰ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਸਾਚਾ ਥਾਨੁ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਦਸ ਪੁਰਬ ਸਦਾ ਦਸਾਹਰਾ ॥
Gur Giaan Saachaa Thhaan Theerathh Dhas Purab Sadhaa Dhasaaharaa ||
The spiritual wisdom given by the Guru is the True sacred shrine of pilgrimage, where the ten festivals are always observed.

ਹਉ ਨਾਮੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਸਦਾ ਜਾਚਉ ਦੇਹੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਧਰਣੀਧਰਾ ॥
Ho Naam Har Kaa Sadhaa Jaacho Dhaehu Prabh Dhharaneedhharaa ||
I constantly beg for the Name of the Lord; grant it to me, O God, Sustainer of the world.

ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ਰੋਗੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਦਾਰੂ ਮੈਲੁ ਲਾਗੈ ਸਚ ਬਿਨਾ ॥
Sansaar Rogee Naam Dhaaroo Mail Laagai Sach Binaa ||
The world is sick, and the Naam is the medicine to cure it; without the True Lord, filth sticks to it.

ਗੁਰ ਵਾਕੁ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਸਦਾ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਨਿਤ ਸਾਚੁ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਮਜਨਾ ॥੧॥
Gur Vaak Niramal Sadhaa Chaanan Nith Saach Theerathh Majanaa ||1||
The Guru’s Word is immaculate and pure; it radiates a steady Light. Constantly bathe in such a true shrine of pilgrimage. ||1||

ਸਾਚਿ ਨ ਲਾਗੈ ਮੈਲੁ ਕਿਆ ਮਲੁ ਧੋਈਐ ॥
Saach N Laagai Mail Kiaa Mal Dhhoeeai ||
Filth does not stick to the true ones; what filth do they have to wash off?

ਗੁਣਹਿ ਹਾਰੁ ਪਰੋਇ ਕਿਸ ਕਉ ਰੋਈਐ ॥
Gunehi Haar Paroe Kis Ko Roeeai ||
If one strings a garland of virtues for oneself, what is there to cry for?

ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ਮਾਰੈ ਤਰੈ ਤਾਰੈ ਉਲਟਿ ਜੋਨਿ ਨ ਆਵਏ ॥
Veechaar Maarai Tharai Thaarai Oulatt Jon N Aaveae ||
One who conquers his own self through contemplation is saved, and saves others as well; he does not come to be born again.

ਆਪਿ ਪਾਰਸੁ ਪਰਮ ਧਿਆਨੀ ਸਾਚੁ ਸਾਚੇ ਭਾਵਏ ॥
Aap Paaras Param Dhhiaanee Saach Saachae Bhaaveae ||
The supreme meditator is Himself the philosopher’s stone, which transforms lead into gold. The true man is pleasing to the True Lord.

ਆਨੰਦੁ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਹਰਖੁ ਸਾਚਾ ਦੂਖ ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਪਰਹਰੇ ॥
Aanandh Anadhin Harakh Saachaa Dhookh Kilavikh Pareharae ||
He is in ecstasy, truly happy, night and day; his sorrows and sins are taken away.

ਸਚੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਾਇਆ ਗੁਰਿ ਦਿਖਾਇਆ ਮੈਲੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਸਚ ਮਨੇ ॥੨॥
Sach Naam Paaeiaa Gur Dhikhaaeiaa Mail Naahee Sach Manae ||2||
He finds the True Name, and beholds the Guru; with the True Name in his mind, no filth sticks to him. ||2||

ਸੰਗਤਿ ਮੀਤ ਮਿਲਾਪੁ ਪੂਰਾ ਨਾਵਣੋ ॥
Sangath Meeth Milaap Pooraa Naavano ||
O friend, association with the Holy is the perfect cleansing bath.

ਗਾਵੈ ਗਾਵਣਹਾਰੁ ਸਬਦਿ ਸੁਹਾਵਣੋ ॥
Gaavai Gaavanehaar Sabadh Suhaavano ||
The singer who sings the Lord’s Praises is adorned with the Word of the Shabad.

ਸਾਲਾਹਿ ਸਾਚੇ ਮੰਨਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੁੰਨ ਦਾਨ ਦਇਆ ਮਤੇ ॥
Saalaahi Saachae Mann Sathigur Punn Dhaan Dhaeiaa Mathae ||
Worship the True Lord, and believe in the True Guru; this brings the merit of making donations to charity, kindness and compassion.

ਪਿਰ ਸੰਗਿ ਭਾਵੈ ਸਹਜਿ ਨਾਵੈ ਬੇਣੀ ਤ ਸੰਗਮੁ ਸਤ ਸਤੇ ॥
Pir Sang Bhaavai Sehaj Naavai Baenee Th Sangam Sath Sathae ||
The soul-bride who loves to be with her Husband Lord bathes at the Triveni, the sacred place where the Ganges, Jamuna and Saraswaati Rivers converge, the Truest of the True.

ਆਰਾਧਿ ਏਕੰਕਾਰੁ ਸਾਚਾ ਨਿਤ ਦੇਇ ਚੜੈ ਸਵਾਇਆ ॥
Aaraadhh Eaekankaar Saachaa Nith Dhaee Charrai Savaaeiaa ||
Worship and adore the One Creator, the True Lord, who constantly gives, whose gifts continually increase.

ਗਤਿ ਸੰਗਿ ਮੀਤਾ ਸੰਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਨਦਰਿ ਮੇਲਿ ਮਿਲਾਇਆ ॥੩॥
Gath Sang Meethaa Santhasangath Kar Nadhar Mael Milaaeiaa ||3||
Salvation is attained by associating with the Society of the Saints, O friend; granting His Grace, God unites us in His Union. ||3||

ਕਹਣੁ ਕਹੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋਇ ਕੇਵਡੁ ਆਖੀਐ ॥
Kehan Kehai Sabh Koe Kaevadd Aakheeai ||
Everyone speaks and talks; how great should I say He is?

ਹਉ ਮੂਰਖੁ ਨੀਚੁ ਅਜਾਣੁ ਸਮਝਾ ਸਾਖੀਐ ॥
Ho Moorakh Neech Ajaan Samajhaa Saakheeai ||
I am foolish, lowly and ignorant; it is only through the Guru’s Teachings that I understand.

ਸਚੁ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਾਖੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਭਾਖੀ ਤਿਤੁ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ਮੇਰਾ ॥
Sach Gur Kee Saakhee Anmrith Bhaakhee Thith Man Maaniaa Maeraa ||
True are the Teachings of the Guru. His Words are Ambrosial Nectar; my mind is pleased and appeased by them.

ਕੂਚੁ ਕਰਹਿ ਆਵਹਿ ਬਿਖੁ ਲਾਦੇ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਚੈ ਗੁਰੁ ਮੇਰਾ ॥
Kooch Karehi Aavehi Bikh Laadhae Sabadh Sachai Gur Maeraa ||
Loaded down with corruption and sin, people depart, and then come back again; the True Shabad is found through my Guru.

ਆਖਣਿ ਤੋਟਿ ਨ ਭਗਤਿ ਭੰਡਾਰੀ ਭਰਿਪੁਰਿ ਰਹਿਆ ਸੋਈ ॥
Aakhan Thott N Bhagath Bhanddaaree Bharipur Rehiaa Soee ||
There is no end to the treasure of devotion; the Lord is pervading everywhere.

ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੁ ਕਹੈ ਬੇਨੰਤੀ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਂਜੈ ਸਚੁ ਸੋਈ ॥੪॥੧॥
Naanak Saach Kehai Baenanthee Man Maanjai Sach Soee ||4||1||
Nanak utters this true prayer; one who purifies his mind is True. ||4||1||

-ਗੁਰੁ ਸਾਗਰੁ ਰਤਨੀ ਭਰਪੂਰੇ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 1, GGS. 685-12).
Gur Saagar Rathanee Bharapoorae ||
The Guru is the ocean, filled with pearls.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸੰਤ ਚੁਗਹਿ ਨਹੀ ਦੂਰੇ ॥
Anmrith Santh Chugehi Nehee Dhoorae ||
The Saints gather in the Ambrosial Nectar; they do not go far away from there.

ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਚੋਗ ਚੁਗਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਭਾਵੈ ॥
Har Ras Chog Chugehi Prabh Bhaavai ||
They taste the subtle essence of the Lord; they are loved by God.

ਸਰਵਰ ਮਹਿ ਹੰਸੁ ਪ੍ਰਾਨਪਤਿ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੧॥
Saravar Mehi Hans Praanapath Paavai ||1||
Within this pool, the swans find their Lord, the Lord of their souls. ||1||

ਕਿਆ ਬਗੁ ਬਪੁੜਾ ਛਪੜੀ ਨਾਇ ॥
Kiaa Bag Bapurraa Shhaparree Naae ||
What can the poor crane accomplish by bathing in the mud puddle?

ਕੀਚੜਿ ਡੂਬੈ ਮੈਲੁ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Keecharr Ddoobai Mail N Jaae ||1|| Rehaao ||
It sinks into the mire, and its filth is not washed away. ||1||Pause||

ਰਖਿ ਰਖਿ ਚਰਨ ਧਰੇ ਵੀਚਾਰੀ ॥
Rakh Rakh Charan Dhharae Veechaaree ||
After careful deliberation, the thoughtful person takes a step.

ਦੁਬਿਧਾ ਛੋਡਿ ਭਏ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੀ ॥
Dhubidhhaa Shhodd Bheae Nirankaaree ||
Forsaking duality, he becomes a devotee of the Formless Lord.

• ਸਚੁ ਵਰਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਧਿਆਨੁ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS. 1245-10).
  Sach Varath Santhokh Theerathh Giaan Dhhiaan Eisanaan ||
  Those who have truth as their fast, contentment as their sacred shrine of pilgrimage, spiritual wisdom and meditation as their cleansing bath,

ਦਇਆ ਦੇਵਤਾ ਖਿਮਾ ਜਪਮਾਲੀ ਤੇ ਮਾਣਸ ਪਰਧਾਨ ॥
Dhaeiaa Dhaevathaa Khimaa Japamaalee Thae Maanas Paradhhaan ||
Kindness as their deity, and forgiveness as their chanting beads – they are the most excellent people.

ਜੁਗਤਿ ਧੋਤੀ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਚਉਕਾ ਤਿਲਕੁ ਕਰਣੀ ਹੋਇ ॥
Jugath Dhhothee Surath Choukaa Thilak Karanee Hoe ||
Those who take the Way as their loincloth, and intuitive awareness their ritualistically purified enclosure, with good deeds their ceremonial forehead mark,

ਭਾਉ ਭੋਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਵਿਰਲਾ ਤ ਕੋਈ ਕੋਇ ॥੧॥
Bhaao Bhojan Naanakaa Viralaa Th Koee Koe ||1||
And love their food – O Nanak, they are very rare. ||1||

• ਗੁਰਾ ਇਕ ਦੇਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥ (Jap, Guru Nanak, GGS. 2-10).
  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||

ਤੀਰਥਿ ਨਾਵਾ ਜੇ ਤਿਸੁ ਭਾਵਾ ਵਿਣੁ ਭਾਣੇ ਕਿ ਨਾਇ ਕਰੀ ॥
Theerathh Naavaa Jae This Bhaavaa Vin Bhaanae K Naae Karee ||
If I am pleasing to Him, then that is my pilgrimage and cleansing bath. Without pleasing Him, what good are ritual cleansings?

Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Bhagat Kabir Ji further endorse as follows:-

• ਪੰਡਿਤੁ ਪੜਿ ਪੜਿ ਉਚਾ ਕੂਕਦਾ ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹਿ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 3, GGS. 86-7).
  Panddith Parr Parr Ouchaa Kookadhaa Maaeiaa Mohi Piaar ||
  The Pandits, the religious scholars, read and read, and shout out loud, but they are attached to the love of Maya.

ਅੰਤਰਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਨ ਚੀਨਈ ਮਨਿ ਮੂਰਖੁ ਗਾਵਾਰੁ ॥
Anthar Breham N Cheenee Man Moorakh Gaavaar ||
They do not recognize God within themselves-they are so foolish and ignorant!

ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਜਗਤੁ ਪਰਬੋਧਦਾ ਨਾ ਬੂਝੈ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ॥
Dhoojai Bhaae Jagath Parabodhhadhaa Naa Boojhai Beechaar ||
In the love of duality, they try to teach the world, but they do not understand meditative contemplation.

ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ਮਰਿ ਜੰਮੈ ਵਾਰੋ ਵਾਰ ॥੧॥
Birathhaa Janam Gavaaeiaa Mar Janmai Vaaro Vaar ||1||
They lose their lives uselessly; they die, only to be re-born, over and over again. ||1||

• ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਨ ਸੇਵਿਓ ਸਬਦੁ ਨ ਰਖਿਓ ਉਰ ਧਾਰਿ ॥ (Salok Vaaraan and Vadheek M. 3, GGS. 1414-3).
  Sathiguroo N Saeviou Sabadh N Rakhiou Our Dhhaar ||
  Those who do not serve the True Guru, and do not keep the Shabad enshrined in their hearts

ਧਿਗੁ ਤਿਨਾ ਕਾ ਜੀਵਿਆ ਕਿਤੁ ਆਏ ਸੰਸਾਰਿ ॥
Dhhig Thinaa Kaa Jeeviaa Kith Aaeae Sansaar ||
Cursed are their lives. Why did they even come into the world?

• ਬਾਵਰੇ ਤੈ ਗਿਆਨ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ ॥ (Raag Suhi Bhagat Kabir , GGS. 793-2).
  Baavarae Thai Giaan Beechaar N Paaeiaa ||
  O mad man, you have not obtained spiritual wisdom and meditation.

ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Birathhaa Janam Gavaaeiaa ||1|| Rehaao ||
You have wasted this human life, and lost. ||1||Pause||

Guru Gobind Singh guides us against such pilgrimages and rituals:-

• ਕਹਾ ਭਯੋ ਦੋਊ ਲੋਚਨ ਮੂੰਦ ਕੈ ਬੈਠਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਬਕ ਧ੍ਯਾਨ ਲਗਾਇਓ ॥ (Dasam Granth)
  Kahaa Bhayo Doaoo Lochan Mooaanda Kai Baitthi Rahiao Baka Dhaiaan Lagaaeiao ॥
  Of what use it is if one sits and meditates like a crane with his eyes closed.

ਨ੍ਹਾਤ ਫਿਰਿਓ ਲੀਏ ਸਾਤ ਸਮੁੰਦ੍ਰਨ ਲੋਕ ਗਇਓ ਪਰਲੋਕ ਗਵਾਇਓ ॥
Nahaata Phiriao Leeee Saata Samuaandarn Loka Gaeiao Parloka Gavaaeiao ॥
If he takes bath at holy places upto the seventh sea, he loses this world and also the next world.

ਬਾਸੁ ਕੀਓ ਬਿਖਿਆਨ ਸੋ ਬੈਠ ਕੇ ਐਸੇ ਹੀ ਐਸ ਸੁ ਬੈਸ ਬਿਤਾਇਓ ॥
Baasu Keeao Bikhiaan So Baittha Ke Aaise Hee Aaisa Su Baisa Bitaaeiao ॥
He spends his life in such performing evil actions and wastes his life in such pursuits.

• ਸਾਚੁ ਕਹੌ ਸੁਨ ਲੇਹੁ ਸਭੈ ਜਿਨ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕੀਓ ਤਿਨ ਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਪਾਇਓ ॥੯॥੨੯॥
  Saachu Kahou Suna Lehu Sabhai Jin Parema Keeao Tin Hee Parbhu Paaeiao ॥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.

ਕਾਹੂੰ ਲੈ ਪਾਹਨ ਪੂਜ ਧਰਿਓ ਸਿਰਿ ਕਾਹੂੰ ਲੈ ਲਿੰਗੁ ਗਰੇ ਲਟਕਾਇਓ ॥
Kaahooaan Lai Paahan Pooja Dhariao Siri Kaahooaan Lai Liaangu Gare Lattakaaeiao ॥
Someone worshipped stone and placed it on his head. Someone hung the phallus (lingam) from his neck.

ਕਾਹੂੰ ਲਖਿਓ ਹਰਿ ਅਵਾਚੀ ਦਿਸਾ ਮਹਿ ਕਾਹੂੰ ਪਛਾਹ ਕੋ ਸੀਸ ਨਿਵਾਇਓ ॥
Kaahooaan Lakhiao Hari Avaachee Disaa Mahi Kaahooaan Pachhaaha Ko Seesa Nivaaeiao ॥
Someone visualized God in the South and someone bowed his head towards the West.

ਕੋਊ ਬੁਤਾਨ ਕੌ ਪੂਜਤ ਹੈ ਪਸੁ ਕੋਊ ਮ੍ਰਿਤਾਨ ਕੌ ਪੂਜਨ ਧਾਇਓ ॥
Koaoo Butaan Kou Poojata Hai Pasu Koaoo Mritaan Kou Poojan Dhaaeiao ॥
Some fool worships the idols and someone goes to worship the dead.

ਕੂਰ ਕ੍ਰਿਆ ਉਰਝਿਓ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਜਗੁ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਭਗਵਾਨ ਕੌ ਭੇਦੁ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ॥੧੦॥੩੦॥
Koora Kriaa Aurjhiao Sabha Hee Jagu Sree Bhagavaan Kou Bhedu Na Paaeiao ॥10॥30॥
The whole world is entangled in false rituals and has not known the secret of Lord-God 10.30.

Conclusion:-

I do wish that appropriate steps are taken to provide guidance to such well built Sadhus to take up some KIRATS (Vocations) to better serve themselves and the Nation and their fellow country beings as per the Gurmat Advice: – NAAM JAPO, VAND CHACKO and KIRAT KARO, rather than staying/hiding in caves and living on receiving meger donations from their blind chelas or bhagats etc. Gurmat advice is handy:-

ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਤੂੰ ਆਇਆ ਲਾਹਾ ਲੈਣਿ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 5, GGS. 43-3).
Praanee Thoon Aaeiaa Laahaa Lain ||
O mortal, you came here to earn a profit.

ਲਗਾ ਕਿਤੁ ਕੁਫਕੜੇ ਸਭ ਮੁਕਦੀ ਚਲੀ ਰੈਣਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Lagaa Kith Kufakarrae Sabh Mukadhee Chalee Rain ||1|| Rehaao ||
What useless activities are you attached to? Your life-night is coming to its end. ||1||Pause||

Some people create doubts about the status of Savaiye (Bani) by Bhatts.

Kindly examine Bani of Bhatts, which follows Savaiye Sri Mukhbak M. 5, 1385-mid 1389) and goes on to pages 1389 to 1409 as Savaiye. M.1ke, M.2ke M.3ke, M.4ke and M.5ke.

This collection of this part of Gurbani (Savaiye) starts with Mool Mantar and the starting verse is by Guru Arjan Dev Ji:-

ਆਦਿ ਪੁਰਖ ਕਰਤਾਰ ਕਰਣ ਕਾਰਣ ਸਭ ਆਪੇ ॥ ਸਰਬ ਰਹਿਓ ਭਰਪੂਰਿ ਸਗਲ ਘਟ ਰਹਿਓ ਬਿਆਪੇ ॥ (Savaiye Mukbak M. 5, GGS. 1385-1).
O Primal Lord God, You Yourself are the Creator, the Cause of all causes. You are All-pervading everywhere, totally filling all hearts.

Guru Sahib makes his position clear in relation to ਆਦਿ ਪੁਰਖ ਕਰਤਾ (God/Waheguru) in the very beginning of the Savaiye Bani.

Each of the following segments starts with “Ik Oankaar Satgurparsad” (in line with the entire Bani). This clearly suggests that Bani of Bhatts is Dhur Ki Bani praising the presence of Akalpurakh/Waheguru as glimpsed in Gurus by the Bhatts.

To say that Bani of Bhatts is in praise of Gurus does not fit in to the overall layout of Gurbani in the Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Arjan Dev Ji (in the first place) and Guru Gobind SinghJi would have not accepted its inclusion in the GGS, if it were to glorify individual Gurus.

Bhatts glorified presence of Divine Light in Guru Sahibs but never equated them with Waheguru (Gurmat God). The following verses clarify:-

ਨਾਨਕ ਆਦਿ ਅੰਗਦ ਅਮਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਮਾਇਅਉ ॥(Savaiye (praise of Guru Arjan Dev): Bhatt Kalh, GGS. 1407-13).
First, Guru Nanak, then Guru Angad and Guru Amar Das, the True Guru, have been absorbed into the Word of the Sabd.

ਜਪ੍ਯ੍ਯਉ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਅਰਜੁਨ ਦੇਵ ਗੁਰੂ ਫਿਰਿ ਸੰਕਟ ਜੋਨਿ ਗਰਭ ਨ ਆਯਉ ॥੬॥Savaiye (praise of Guru Arjan Dev): Bhatt Mathura, GGS. 1409-8).
Whoever meditates on Guru of Arjun Dayv, shall not have to pass through the painful womb of reincarnation ever again. ||6||

I read Bhatt Savaiye as in the praise of presence of ‘Partak Waheguru (Wah Guru)’ in the respective Gurus.

Therefore, Bhatt Nalh offers the following pray to Akalpurk/Waheguru:-

ਅਬ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਦਾਸ ਭਾਟ ਕੀ ਲਾਜ ॥ ਜੈਸੀ ਰਾਖੀ ਲਾਜ ਭਗਤ ਪ੍ਰਹਿਲਾਦ ਕੀ ਹਰਨਾਖਸ ਫਾਰੇ ਕਰ ਆਜ ॥ (Bhatt Nalh, GGS. 1400-9).
Now, please preserve the honor of Your humble slave. God saved the honor of the devotee Prahlaad, when Harnaakhash tore him apart with his claws.

ਫੁਨਿ ਦ੍ਰੋਪਤੀ ਲਾਜ ਰਖੀ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਜੀ ਛੀਨਤ ਬਸਤ੍ਰ ਦੀਨ ਬਹੁ ਸਾਜ ॥
And the Dear Lord God saved the honor of Dropadi; when her clothes were stripped from her, she was blessed with even more.

ਸੋਦਾਮਾ ਅਪਦਾ ਤੇ ਰਾਖਿਆ ਗਨਿਕਾ ਪੜ੍ਹਤ ਪੂਰੇ ਤਿਹ ਕਾਜ ॥
Sudaamaa was saved from misfortune; and Ganikaa the prostitute – when she chanted Your Name, her affairs were perfectly resolved.

ਸ੍ਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੁਪ੍ਰਸੰਨ ਕਲਜੁਗ ਹੋਇ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਦਾਸ ਭਾਟ ਕੀ ਲਾਜ ॥੮॥੧੨॥
O Great True Guru, if it pleases You, please save the honor of Your slave in this Dark Age of kali Yuga. ||8||12||

Prahlad, Drapoti, Sudama, Ganika…were saved by their Lord. These existed before Guru Ram Das Ji and they did not bear any relation to Guru Ram Das as such.

The ‘Inexhaustible Divine Force’ operating in the Gurus that was witnessed by Bhatts was expressed as Wah Guru (beyond description).

Similarly Bhai Gurdas Ji advances that the Waheguru (as Gurmantar) is truthful and ever existing and is shiromani among all the prevalent gods and goddesses who were revered by masses before the Gurbani came into existence.

On accepting the attah vastness of ‘Wah Guru’, one receives a powerful jolt to bring home the insignificance of oneself – thus loosing all the houmai.

The words Mool Mantar and Gurmantar are holy (as have been used since ages) and why there should be any hesitation in adopting them when these are also used respectfully in the Gurbani? Bhai Gurdas Ji further remains in the limit set by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Arjan Dev Ji in the following Tuks:-

Bhai Gurdas Ji further remains in the limit set by Guru Nanak Sahib and Guru Arjan Dev Ji in the following Tuks:-

• ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਚੇ ਵਾਹੁ ਸਚੁ ਸਮਾਲਿਆ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 149-6).
  Sathigur Sachae Vaahu Sach Samaaliaa ||
  Hail to the True, True Guru, through whom we merge in the Truth.

ਪਾਇਆ ਰਤਨੁ ਘਰਾਹੁ ਦੀਵਾ ਬਾਲਿਆ ॥
Paaeiaa Rathan Gharaahu Dheevaa Baaliaa ||
I have found the jewel within the home of my own self; the lamp within has been lit.

ਸਚੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਲਾਹਿ ਸੁਖੀਏ ਸਚ ਵਾਲਿਆ ॥
Sachai Sabadh Salaahi Sukheeeae Sach Vaaliaa ||
Those who praise the True Word of the Shabad, abide in the peace of Truth.

ਨਿਡਰਿਆ ਡਰੁ ਲਗਿ ਗਰਬਿ ਸਿ ਗਾਲਿਆ ॥
Niddariaa Ddar Lag Garab S Gaaliaa ||
But those who do not have the Fear of God, are overtaken by fear. They are destroyed by their own pride.

ਨਾਵਹੁ ਭੁਲਾ ਜਗੁ ਫਿਰੈ ਬੇਤਾਲਿਆ ॥੨੪॥
Naavahu Bhulaa Jag Firai Baethaaliaa ||24||
Having forgotten the Name, the world is roaming around like a wild demon. ||24||

• ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਸਾਚੇ ਮੈ ਤੇਰੀ ਟੇਕ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 1, GGS. 153-4).
  Vaahu Vaahu Saachae Mai Thaeree Ttaek ||
  Waaho! Waaho! – Great! Great is my True Lord! I seek Your All-powerful Support.

ਹਉ ਪਾਪੀ ਤੂੰ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਏਕ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Ho Paapee Thoon Niramal Eaek ||1|| Rehaao ||
I am a sinner – You alone are pure. ||1||Pause||

• ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਵਾਟ ਦਿਖਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 1, GGS. 226-10).
  This Ko Vaahu Vaahu J Vaatt Dhikhaavai ||
  Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who shows us the Way.

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥
This Ko Vaahu Vaahu J Sabadh Sunaavai ||
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who teaches the Word of the Shabad.

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਮੇਲਿ ਮਿਲਾਵੈ ॥੬॥
This Ko Vaahu Vaahu J Mael Milaavai ||6||
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who unites me in the Lord’s Union. ||6||

ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਇਹੁ ਜੀਉ ॥
Vaahu Vaahu This Ko Jis Kaa Eihu Jeeo ||
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who is the Keeper of this soul.

ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਮਥਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਉ ॥
Gur Sabadhee Mathh Anmrith Peeo ||
Through the Word of the Guru’s Shabad, contemplate this Ambrosial Nectar.

ਨਾਮ ਵਡਾਈ ਤੁਧੁ ਭਾਣੈ ਦੀਉ ॥੭॥
Naam Vaddaaee Thudhh Bhaanai Dheeo ||7||
The Glorious Greatness of the Naam is bestowed according to the Pleasure of Your Will. ||7||

ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨਾ ਕਿਉ ਜੀਵਾ ਮਾਇ ॥
Naam Binaa Kio Jeevaa Maae ||
Without the Naam, how can I live, O mother?

ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਜਪਤੁ ਰਹਉ ਤੇਰੀ ਸਰਣਾਇ ॥
Anadhin Japath Reho Thaeree Saranaae ||
Night and day, I chant it; I remain in the Protection of Your Sanctuary.

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮਿ ਰਤੇ ਪਤਿ ਪਾਇ ॥੮॥੧੨॥
Naanak Naam Rathae Path Paae ||8||12||
O Nanak, attuned to the Naam, honor is attained. ||8||12||

• ਤੂਹੈ ਹੈ ਵਾਹੁ ਤੇਰੀ ਰਜਾਇ ॥ (Raag Parbhati M. 1, GGS. 1329).
  Thoohai Hai Vaahu Thaeree Rajaae ||
  Waaho! – You are Great, and Wondrous is Your Will.

ਜੋ ਕਿਛੁ ਕਰਹਿ ਸੋਈ ਪਰੁ ਹੋਇਬਾ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕਰਣਾ ਜਾਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Jo Kishh Karehi Soee Par Hoeibaa Avar N Karanaa Jaae ||1|| Rehaao ||
Whatever You do, surely comes to pass. Nothing else can happen. ||1||Pause||

• ਅਉਖਧ ਮੰਤ੍ਰ ਮੂਲ ਮਨ ਏਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਬਿਸ੍ਵਾਸੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਧਾਰਿਆ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 675).
  The Mul Mantra, the Root Mantra, is the only cure for the mind; I have installed faith in God in my mind.
• ਤੁਧੁ ਆਗੈ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਹਮਾਰੀ ਜੀਉ ਪਿੰਡੁ ਸਭੁ ਤੇਰਾ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, GGS. 383-11).
  Thudhh Aagai Aradhaas Hamaaree Jeeo Pindd Sabh Thaeraa ||
  I offer my prayer to You; my body and soul are all Yours.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਭ ਤੇਰੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਕੋਈ ਨਾਉ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਮੇਰਾ ॥੪॥੧੦॥੪੯॥
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||

Thus, Bhatt Bani is in line with Gurmat and is in praise of Akalpurak and Naam.

As per Gurmat, the core message embraces three fundamental pillars for a meaningful life, such as

1. Naam Japo 2. Vand Chacko and 3. Kirat Karo

Guru Nanak Sahib Ji gives priority to Naam Japna because Naam leads to a spiritual awareness necessary for a right choice of a profession (Kirat) that also enables a person to render Seva (Vand Chakna) not only in financial sense but more importantly becoming enlightened to be able to share one’s spiritual understanding (Gurmat) with others.

Keeping in view the importance of Naam Japna, Guru Ji alerts us:-

ਜਪਹੁ ਤ ਏਕੋ ਨਾਮਾ ॥ ਅਵਰਿ ਨਿਰਾਫਲ ਕਾਮਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 1, GGS. 728-5).
Japahu Th Eaeko Naamaa || Avar Niraafal Kaamaa ||1|| Rehaao ||
Chant the Name of the One Lord. All other actions are fruitless. ||1||Pause||

Naam Japna leads to living in the presence of (Ik Oankar,ੴ ) Akalpurak with full faith and trust so as to embrace divine qualities as per the advice of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:-

• ਜੈਸਾ ਸੇਵੈ ਤੈਸੋ ਹੋਇ ॥੪॥ ਨਰ ਨਿਹਕੇਵਲ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 1, GGS. 223-19).
  Jaisaa Saevai Thaiso Hoe ||4|| Nar Nihakaeval Nirabho Naao ||
  They become just like the One they serve. ||4|| The Name makes a man pure and fearless.
• ਜਿਨਿ ਜਾਤਾ ਸੋ ਤਿਸ ਹੀ ਜੇਹਾ ॥ ਅਤਿ ਨਿਰਮਾਇਲੁ ਸੀਝਸਿ ਦੇਹਾ ॥ (Raag Raamkali Dakhni M. 1, GGS. 931-3).
  Jin Jaathaa So This Hee Jaehaa || Ath Niramaaeil Seejhas Dhaehaa ||
  One who knows the Lord, becomes like Him. He becomes absolutely immaculate, and his body is sanctified.

ਰਹਸੀ ਰਾਮੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਇਕ ਭਾਇ ॥ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਸਾਚਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਇ ॥੧੦॥
Rehasee Raam Ridhai Eik Bhaae || Anthar Sabadh Saach Liv Laae ||10||
His heart is happy, in love with the One Lord.He lovingly centers his attention deep within upon the True Word of the Sbad. ||10||

So obviously on gaining spiritual strength, one is in a better position to find a right and appropriate profession, which helps one to sustain in one’s life as well as keeps the blissful Divine Union in place to draw the necessary guidance and strength needed to walk on Gurmat Path in daily life by studying Gurmat /Gur-Sabd (‘spiritual gian’) through an acquired degree of appropriate literacy (e. g. for a Sikh a knowledge of Gurmukhi helps a great deal in appreciating Gurmat).

In order to remain steady on Spiritual Path, one needs to be a literate, hardworking and ready to share one’s possession (be it be financial and/or spiritual wealth) with discern with the needy:-

• ਘਾਲਿ ਖਾਇ ਕਿਛੁ ਹਥਹੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਰਾਹੁ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਸੇਇ ॥੧॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS. 1245-19).
  Ghaal Khaae Kishh Hathhahu Dhaee || Naanak Raahu Pashhaanehi Saee ||1||
  One who works for Spiritual Awastha, and shares of what he has obtained to others – O Nanak, he knows the Path. ||1||
• ਵਿਚਿ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਸੇਵ ਕਮਾਈਐ ॥ ਤਾ ਦਰਗਹ ਬੈਸਣੁ ਪਾਈਐ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 26-1).
  Vich Dhuneeaa Saev Kamaaeeai || Thaa Dharageh Baisan Paaeeai ||
  In the midst of this world, do seva, And you shall be given a place of honor in the Court of the Lord.

In a nutshell, ‘Naam Japo’/Gurmat Vichaar/Contemplation on Gurbani imbibes a spirit of Universal Brotherhood and Divine Sohjee leading to a right ‘Kirat’ (Profession).These pillars are interrelated and lead to 100% literacy; 100% employment followed by – Seva/Service for others (sharing of both monetary and Spiritual Wealth) and bring solace in one’s life.

Guru Nanak Sahib obtained first gift of Naam, which he spread in his 4 journeys around the World for inculcating sense of Universal Brotherhood before settling to his Kirat at Kartarpur Sahib.

In our daily Ardas, Naam Japo-Vand Chacko takes a prominent place & also Daana Sirr Daan – Naam Daan.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

While I largely appreciate “Gurmat Martand”, written by Bhai Kahn Singh Ji but I do not subscribe to his adventure into a controversial book with a theme that ,”Hum Hindu Nahin”. The need rather to come up with a book – ” Who is a Sikh’ in order to lure others to embrace Gurbani to become a Sikh. This obviously created unnecessary rift between the Hindus and the Sikhs. While the Gurbani clearly endorses:-

ਨਾ ਕੋ ਬੈਰੀ ਨਹੀ ਬਿਗਾਨਾ ਸਗਲ ਸੰਗਿ ਹਮ ਕਉ ਬਨਿ ਆਈ ॥੧॥ (Raag Kaanrhaa M. 5, GGS. 1299-14).

Naa Ko Bairee Nehee Bigaanaa Sagal Sang Ham Ko Ban Aaee ||1||
No one is my enemy, and no one is a stranger. I get along with everyone. ||1||

We live in ‘Kal Yug’ and there is one need in this Yug, which is clearly amplified in the Bani of our Gurus repeatedly:-

• ਕਲਿ ਮਹਿ ਬੇਦੁ ਅਥਰਬਣੁ ਹੂਆ ਨਾਉ ਖੁਦਾਈ ਅਲਹੁ ਭਇਆ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 470-7).
  Kal Mehi Baedh Athharaban Hooaa Naao Khudhaaee Alahu Bhaeiaa ||
  In the Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Atharva Veda became prominent; Allah became the Name of God.

ਨੀਲ ਬਸਤ੍ਰ ਲੇ ਕਪੜੇ ਪਹਿਰੇ ਤੁਰਕ ਪਠਾਣੀ ਅਮਲੁ ਕੀਆ ॥
Neel Basathr Lae Kaparrae Pehirae Thurak Pathaanee Amal Keeaa ||
Men began to wear blue robes and garments; Turks and Pat’haans assumed power.

ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਹੋਏ ਸਚਿਆਰ ॥ਪੜਹਿ ਗੁਣਹਿ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਚਾਰ ਵੀਚਾਰ ॥
Chaarae Vaedh Hoeae Sachiaar ||Parrehi Gunehi Thinh Chaar Veechaar ||
The four Vedas 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||

All religious/spiritual paths (Vedantic/Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity etc.) help make human life meaningful and happy and one can give different names to attainable spiritual states. Vedantic Philosophy served humanity well, till some rituals overpowered the core messages by the practices of the Philosophy over the time. A number of barriers (like original language and traditions) over a long span of period have helped to dilute or corrode the significance of Vedantic Philosophy. Practitioners of Vedantic Philosophy do acknowledge this. Vedanta is an ancient school of Hindu philosophy that was based on three primary Hindu texts: the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Gita. Vedanta teaches the concepts of the soul, known as atman, and its relationship with the Supreme God, known as Brahman. There are very few good Hindus who believe in the Vedantic Philosophy rest simply think that Hinduism is just a way of life.

Sikhi thrives on Gurmat (drawn from teachings of Gurbani) has relevant elements of all religious philosophies and practices before Guru Nanak Sahib. Gurbani openly acknowledges good points of Vedas and Shastras, simultaneously also condemns the useless rituals that became manifested among the masses.

The core message of Gurbani is:-

ਨਾਮ ਤੁਲਿ ਕਛੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਹੋਇ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਜਨੁ ਕੋਇ॥੮॥੨॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, SGGS. 265-8).
Naam Thul Kashh Avar N Hoe || Naanak Guramukh Naam Paavai Jan Koe ||8||2||
There is nothing equal to the Naam. O Nanak, rare are those, who, as Gurmukh, obtain the Naam. ||8||2||

In Sikhi, unless one gets Naam all other activities amount to waste of time and are mere empty rituals as in other religions. We need to examine how many of us are on the right path? While the goal is clear and can be achieved with grace of Waheguru as ‘Gurparsad’, the path itself is also very lucrative with blessings of different kinds even when we are short of the destination.

Gurbani does show a definite spiritual path leading to ‘Gobind Milan’ (blissful enlightenment).
Sikhi stresses the importance of life’s quality, the cultivation of nobility of the soul, and the attainment of real and abiding happiness (sehaj/bliss). Sikhi like other religions teaches that life has a purpose in these words:

ਭਈ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਦੇਹੁਰੀਆ॥ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਮਿਲਣ ਕੀ ਇਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਬਰੀਆ॥ (Raag Asa M. 5. SGGS. 12 &378).
Bhee Paraapath Maanukh Dhaehureeaa || Gobindh Milan Kee Eih Thaeree Bareeaa ||
You have been blessed with this humanbody;this is your chance to meet the Lord of the Universe.

Sikhi is not an archaic tradition to be relegated to the past but represents the most cutting-edge and spiritually progressive worldview that humans have ever known. The Gurbani, which is the core of Sikhi, shapes our social, cultural, religious, professional, political, economic life etc., and influences our thought about the world around us.

For Sikhi to become a reality, however, all Sikhs (followers of Sikhi) must exhibit the courage, the strength, the fearlessness, the humility, and the determination to dedicate themselves wholly to practicing authentic Sikhi (as per the Guru Granth Sahib), and to serving humanity with all their being with body, mind, and wealth(tan, mann and dhan). Together, united in strength, purpose, and compassion, we can look forward to a better world. May Waheguru empower us so that we may revive true Sikhi in our hearts and minds. Gurbani teaches “Prab ka simran sab teoocha” (Raag Gauri M. 5, SGGS.) and “Oochae oupar oochaa naao”(Guru Nanak, Jap Ji, SGGS. 5).

There is an unbreakable connection between a Guru and a Sikh on one hand and
the Guru and Akalpurakh (Waheguru) on the other hand. According to the Gurbani, the Guru is a necessary force/media for a Sikh to follow to connect with Waheguru.

In the following Tuk, Guru Nanak Ji gives a glimpse of Sikhi in the light of Guru Ji’s Gur (Akalpurakh):

ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ॥ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮਿ ਲਘਾਏ ਪਾਰਿ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, SGGS. 465).
Sikhee Sikhiaa Gur Veechaar || Nadharee Karam Laghaaeae Paar ||
Contemplating the Gur, I have been taught teachings of Sikhi. Granting His Grace, He carries His servants across.

Here Gur Veechar is the Divine Wisdom (budh-bibek) received from the Supreme Gur i.e. Waheguru as a gift of Naam by His Grace.

Guru Nanak Ji further again confirms the supreme support of Naam as a main thrust of his life in the following Tuk:

ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ॥ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ॥੧॥ਰਹਾਉ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, SGGS. 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||

The entire Bani of the Sikh Gurus is in keeping the with the spirit of Truth proclaimed by Guru Nanak Ji:

ਸਚਹੁ ਓਰੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋਉ ਪਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਆਚਾਰੁ॥੫॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, SGGS. 62).
Sachahu Ourai Sabh Ko Oupar Sach Aachaar ||5|| Sabh Ko Oochaa Aakheeai Neech N Dheesai Koe ||
Truth is higher than everything; but higher still is truthful living. ||5||

The most common denominator possessed by all the Guru, Bhagats and Bhatts is the presence of a Divine Connection with Akalpurakh (Waheguru), which they made well known through their writings and/ or through their lives full of Divine devotion.

Therefore, a Sikh has to be one who is simply striving to connect with Akalpurkh (Waheguru) with full faith and trust in his/her Guru (Sabd Guru). Sikhi teaches us to choose to remember/meditate always upon the very highest source of all good i.e. one and only one Waheguru (IkOnkaar).

Sikhi offers a spiritual path that teaches Universal brotherhood that in turn helps to make our world a better place in terms of peace and prosperity – “Toon ghat ghatanthar, saran nirantar har ekopurakh samana” (Raag Asa M. 4, SGGS. 11) and service to humanity “vich dhuneeaa saev kamaaeeai || thaa dharageh baisan paaeeai ||” (Sri Raag M. 1, SGGS. 26).

Unfortunately, the rift created between the Hindus and the Sikhs has come down all the way in Haryana, Himachal Pardesh and even some parts of Punjab and is clearly visible when some people who normally communicate with their grandparents in Punjabi, say in Punjabi that my language is not Punjabi at the time of Census. Denouncing their Maa Boli. Such people very unfortunately deprive themselves from the treasure of Gurbani in this process.

Sikhi is acceptance of ੴ and its attributes as given in Gurbani (Gurmat). the way to ੴ is Gurparsad (ਗੁਰਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ as per the opening verse in Jap Ji Sahib by Guru Nanak.

According to Guru Nanak Sahib, Gurparsad is the Shiromani Pillar in Sikhi and is the major stepping stone to obtain Gurmat Naam i. e. in order to grasp godly virtues enshrined in the ‘Mool Mantar’ as narrated by Guru Nanak Sahib in Jap Ji.

‘Gurparsad’ is a ‘Divine Umbrella’ and on receiving a glimpse of ‘Gurparsad’ one feels as if one is blessed with Sohjee, Kirpa, Nadr, Grace and all the other elements of devotion/Bhagati (comprising of Faith, Dhrirr Bharosa, Sardha, Aasra, Visah, Vishwas……..,which follow on running automatically).

ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਬੁਝਿਆ ਜਾ ਵੇਖਾ ਹਰਿ ਇਕੁ ਹੈ (ੴ) ਹਰਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, 922-7).
By Guru’s Grace, I understand, and I see only the One Lord; there is no one except the Lord.

Guru Nanak Sahib thrived on the Gurparsad of Akalpurakh (Ik Oankaar) to receive ‘Sat Naam’, which he shared with Bhai Lehna Ji who on partaking Gurparsad became Guru Angad Dev Ji. Likewise Guru Amardas Ji received Gurparsad from Guru Angad Dev Ji who in turn blessed Bhai Jetha Ji with Gurparsad to turn him into Guru Ram Das Ji – an unparalleled example of a rise ‘from rags to riches’ (a blue collared person who was spotted selling boiled chick peas and later became founder of Amritsar – the heart beat of Sikhi in present time). Similarly the other Gurus received the blessing of precedings Gurus who shared their ‘Gurparsad’ to raise them to Gurudom.

According to Gurmat (Gurbani) Ik Oankaar is present in all of us. However, we need ‘Gurparsad’ to realise the same in us:-

ਮਨ ਤਨ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਏਕੁ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਰਾਤਾ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਇਕੁ ਜਾਤਾ ॥੮॥੧੯॥ (Raag Gauri, M.5, GGS. 289-8)
Mind and body within are imbued with the One God.By Guru’s Grace, O Nanak, the One is known. ||8||19||

Gurparsad is the result of Gur-Seva (ਗੁਰ ਸੇਵਾ), which brings one’s self awareness (how insignificant is one) to Bhagati/Devotion (ਭਗਤਿ).

ਗੁਰ ਸੇਵਾ ਬਿਨੁ ਭਗਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵੀ ਕਿਉ ਕਰਿ ਚੀਨਸਿ ਆਪੈ ॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 1013-1)

According to Gurbani, the Divine realisation comes only on removal of one’s self-conceited ego with Gurparsad (as a result of Serving the Guru):-

ਸੋ ਸੰਨਿਆਸੀ ਜੋ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਵੈ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਏ ॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 1013-9).
He alone is a Sannyaasi, who serves the True Guru, and removes his self-conceit from within.

• Finally, the liberation is promised in spiritual vibration of Sat Naam – received from Gurbani.

ਸਭਿ ਸੁਖ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨਾਮ ਧੁਨਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਉਰ ਧਾਰੀ ॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 1013-14).
All comforts and liberation are found in the Naam, and the vibrations of the Guru’s Bani; I have enshrined the True Name within my heart.

ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨਾ ਨਹੀ ਛੂਟਸਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਤਰੁ ਤੂ ਤਾਰੀ ॥੯॥੭॥
Without the Naam, no one is saved; O Nanak, with the Truth, cross over to the other side. ||9||7||

• The awareness of Ik Oankaar comes when the doubt about this Sat Naam is dispelled (ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦਿ ਭਰਮ ਕਾ ਨਾਸੁ).

ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦਿ ਭਰਮ ਕਾ ਨਾਸੁ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨ ਮਹਿ ਏਹੁ ਬਿਸਾਸੁ ॥੩॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 294-5).
By Guru’s Grace, doubt is dispelled.O Nanak, this faith is firmly implanted within. ||3||

Today, we have more Gurbani accessible to guide us as compared to what was once available to most of the Sikh Gurus in their life times except Guru Teg Bhadur Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, yet we are not so spiritual – perhaps we are still lost in doubt (ਭਰਮ) about ‘ Ik Oankaar Sat Naam’.

It appears we ignore the candid advice of Guru Arjan Dev Ji while living in doubts about the existence of Ik Oankar around us:-

ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਚੁ ਕਰਿ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ਨਾਨਕ ਸੋ ਜਨੁ ਸਚਿ ਸਮਾਤਾ ॥੮॥੧੫॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 283-15).
One who recognizes the Supreme Lord God as True- O Nanak, that humble being is absorbed into the True One. ||8||15||

• Let us pray for Gurparsad so that we get the necessary Divine ‘Sohjee’ to realise ‘Ik Oankaar Sat Naam’.

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||

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 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.

The Gurbani gives promise of attaining virtues whether one is educated (scholar) or barely literate without formal education as per the following Tuks:

ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਗੋਵਿੰਦੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥ਪੜਿਆ ਅਣਪੜਿਆ ਪਰਮ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gaurhee M. 5, GGS. 197)
The mortal whether educated or uneducated who meditates on the Preserve ot the World, obtains the Supreme Dignity.

In Sikhi Guru’s Nadr (Grace) is a paramount blessing in moving on the Spiritual Path. Guru Ram Das Ji is a solid example and product of blessings of Guru Amardas Ji.

Is this not a miraculous that Bhai Jetha an ordinary poor young boy who used to sell boiled black chick-peas 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 otherwise? No Guru went to Educational Institutions of the like of Boston, Cambridge, Oxford Universities or Imperial College etc etc.

The Sikhs are intrinsically searching for divine virtues (truth, contentment, wisdom, sehaj and Naam) for sustenance in life as prescribed in Mool Mantar and Mundaavanee M.5 in the Guru Granth Sahib. We are generally attached to our Gurduaras and respect them for providing a source of happiness in life through the Gurmat .The search for peace of mind (ਸੋਝੀ) takes us to Gurduaras:-

ਗੁਰੂ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਹੋਇ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਇਸੀ ॥ (Raag Soohee M. 1, GGS 730)
guroo dhuaarai hoe sojhee paaeisee |I

ਥਾਲ ਵਿਚਿ ਤਿੰਨਿ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਸਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਵੀਚਾਰੋ ॥ (Raag Mundaavanee M. 5, GGS.1429).
Thhaal Vich Thinn Vasathoo Peeou Sath Santhokh Veechaaro ||
Three things have been placed in the Guru Granth Sahib:: Truth, Contentment and Contemplation.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਕਾ ਪਇਓ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਸਭਸੁ ਅਧਾਰੋ ॥
Anmrith Naam Thaakur Kaa Paeiou Jis Kaa Sabhas Adhhaaro ||
The Ambrosial Nectar of the Naam, the Name of our Lord and Master, has been placed upon it as well; it is the Support of all.

ਜੇ ਕੋ ਖਾਵੈ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਭੁੰਚੈ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਹੋਇ ਉਧਾਰੋ ॥
Jae Ko Khaavai Jae Ko Bhunchai This Kaa Hoe Oudhhaaro ||
One who eats it and enjoys it shall be saved.

ਏਹ ਵਸਤੁ ਤਜੀ ਨਹ ਜਾਈ ਨਿਤ ਨਿਤ ਰਖੁ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰੋ ॥
Eaeh Vasath Thajee Neh Jaaee Nith Nith Rakh Our Dhhaaro ||
This thing can never be forsaken; keep this always and forever in your mind.

ਤਮ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ਚਰਨ ਲਗਿ ਤਰੀਐ ਸਭੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਪਸਾਰੋ ॥੧॥
Tham Sansaar Charan Lag Thareeai Sabh Naanak Breham Pasaaro ||1||
The dark world-ocean is crossed over, by grasping the Feet of the Lord; O Nanak, it is all the extension of God. ||1||

Sikhi is pure PIRI and is based on Gurmat.The acquired quantum of Sikhi Spirit is measurable as per Jap Ji Sahib:-

• ਮਤਿ ਵਿਚਿ ਰਤਨ ਜਵਾਹਰ ਮਾਣਿਕ ਜੇ ਇਕ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਿਖ ਸੁਣੀ ॥ (Jap Guru Nanak, GGS, 2-12).
  Math Vich Rathan Javaahar Maanik Jae Eik Gur Kee Sikh Sunee ||
  Within the mind are gems, jewels and rubies, if you listen to the Guru’s Teachings, even once.

Sikhi embodies the spirits of Naam Japo (bringing 100% literacy); Vand Chacko (inculcates Universal Brotherhood) an Kirat Karo (guaranty of 100% employment).

Guru Nanak Sahib adds that he is driven by his GURU and with His grace he is able to perform in life. The is applicable to all of us. Nadr, Kirpa/Grace/Gurparsad is necessary tp walk on path of Sikhi:-

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.

Whereas the Sikh Religion is the Sikhi diluted with rituals such as Roomala and flowers bheta, Siropas, Akhand Paths, Nagar Kirtans, Langars and Chabeels etc etc and by other guiding instructions given by the Governing Bodies of Sikh Gurduaras/Institutions around the World; and the SGPC, DSGMC etc from time to time.. The result is that there are more numbers of Sikhs end up embracing Sikh Religion than Sikhi. The following verse of Kabir Ji attests the ground reality:-

– ਕਬੀਰ ਜਿਹ ਮਾਰਗਿ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਗਏ ਪਾਛੈ ਪਰੀ ਬਹੀਰ ॥ (Salok Bhagat Kabir, GGS. 1373-7).
Kabeer Jih Maarag Panddith Geae Paashhai Paree Beheer ||
Kabeer, the crowds follow the path which the Pandits, the religious scholars, have taken.

ਇਕ ਅਵਘਟ ਘਾਟੀ ਰਾਮ ਕੀ ਤਿਹ ਚੜਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਕਬੀਰ ॥੧੬੫॥
Eik Avaghatt Ghaattee Raam Kee Thih Charr Rehiou Kabeer ||165||
There is a difficult and treacherous cliff on that path to the Lord; Kabeer is climbing that cliff. ||165||

The Divine name Har (ਹਰਿ) is mentioned many more times in the Guru Granth Sahib as compared to any other single name. Are we not thus allowed to do jaap of Har (it is not Hari though)?

• ਬਹੁ ਸਾਸਤ੍ਰ ਬਹੁ ਸਿਮ੍ਰਿਤੀ ਪੇਖੇ ਸਰਬ ਢਢੋਲਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS.265-9).
  There are many Shaastras and the many Simritees – I have seen and searched through them all.

ਪੂਜਸਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਹਰਿ ਹਰੇ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਅਮੋਲ ॥੧॥
-are not equal to Har, Haray – O Nanak, the Lord’s Invaluable Name.

• ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨਿ ਕੀਓ ਸਗਲ ਅਕਾਰਾ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 263-17).
  Har Simaran Keeou Sagal Akaaraa ||
  For the remembrance of the Lord, He created the whole creation.

ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨ ਮਹਿ ਆਪਿ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰਾ ॥
Har Simaran Mehi Aap Nirankaaraa ||
In the remembrance of the Lord, He Himself is Formless.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਜਿਸੁ ਆਪਿ ਬੁਝਾਇਆ ॥
Kar Kirapaa Jis Aap Bujhaaeiaa ||
By His Grace, He Himself bestows understanding.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਤਿਨਿ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੮॥੧॥
Naanak Guramukh Har Simaran Thin Paaeiaa ||8||1||
O Nanak, the Gurmukh attains the remembrance of the Lord. ||8||1||

• ਜਨੁ ਲਾਗਾ ਹਰਿ ਏਕੈ ਨਾਇ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਆਸ ਨ ਬਿਰਥੀ ਜਾਇ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 292-17).
  The Lord’s humble servant is committed to His Name. His hopes do not go in vain.

-ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਤ ਕਛੁ ਨਾਹਿ ਬਿਓਗੁ ॥(Raag Gauri M.5, GGS. 265-1).
Chanting the Lord’s Name, there is no separation from Him.

Guru Ram Das Ji spells out his personal training from his Guru in order to achieve salvation:-

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਉ ਗੁਰਿ ਇਹ ਮਤਿ ਦੀਨੀ ਜਪਿ ਹਰਿ ਭਵਜਲੁ ਤਰਨਾ ॥੨॥੬॥੧੨॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 4, GGS. 670-3).
The Guru has blessed servant Nanak with this understanding, that by meditating on the Lord, we cross over the terrifying world-ocean. ||2||6||12||

• ਹਰਿ ਸਭਨਾ ਵਿਚਿ ਤੂੰ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਸਭਨਾ ਭਾਣਾ ॥( Sri Raag M. 3, GGS. 84-4).
  Har Sabhanaa Vich Thoon Varathadhaa Har Sabhanaa Bhaanaa ||
  O Lord, You pervade and permeate all. Lord, everyone loves You.
• ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕਾ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਸਾਧ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 262-16).
  Prabh Kaa Simaran Saadhh Kai Sang ||
  The meditative remembrance of God is in the Company of the Holy.

ਸਰਬ ਨਿਧਾਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗਿ ॥੨॥
Sarab Nidhhaan Naanak Har Rang ||2||
All treasures, O Nanak, are in the Love of the Lord. ||2||

• ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾਂ ਹਰਿ ਧਨੁ ਜਸੁ ਪਿਆਰਾ ॥ (Raag Maroo M. 1, GGS. 1043-3).
  Santh Janaan Har Dhhan Jas Piaaraa ||
  The wealth of the Lord’s Praise is very dear to the humble Saints.

ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਨਾਮੁ ਤੁਮਾਰਾ ॥
Guramath Paaeiaa Naam Thumaaraa ||
Through the Guru’s Teachings, I have obtained Your Name, Lord.

ਜਾਚਿਕੁ ਸੇਵ ਕਰੇ ਦਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਹਰਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਜਸੁ ਗਾਇਆ ॥੬॥
Jaachik Saev Karae Dhar Har Kai Har Dharageh Jas Gaaeiaa ||6||
The beggar serves at the Lord’s door, and in the Court of the Lord, sings His Praises. ||6||

• ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਹੈ ਜਿਥਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਪਾਇਆ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS, 1244-19).
  Sathasangath Naam Nidhhaan Hai Jithhahu Har Paaeiaa ||
  The treasure of the Name is in the Sat Sangat, the True Congregation. There, the Lord is found.

ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਘਟਿ ਚਾਨਣਾ ਆਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੇਰੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ॥
Gur Parasaadhee Ghatt Chaananaa Aanhaer Gavaaeiaa ||
By Guru’s Grace, the heart is illumined, and darkness is dispelled.

ਲੋਹਾ ਪਾਰਸਿ ਭੇਟੀਐ ਕੰਚਨੁ ਹੋਇ ਆਇਆ ॥
Lohaa Paaras Bhaetteeai Kanchan Hoe Aaeiaa ||
Iron is transformed into gold, when it touches the Philosopher’s Stone.

ਨਾਨਕ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਮਿਲਿਐ ਨਾਉ ਪਾਈਐ ਮਿਲਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਇਆ ॥
Naanak Sathigur Miliai Naao Paaeeai Mil Naam Dhhiaaeiaa ||
O Nanak, meeting with the True Guru, the Name is obtained. Meeting Him, the mortal meditates on the Name.

ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਕੈ ਪੋਤੈ ਪੁੰਨੁ ਹੈ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੀ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੧੯॥
Jinh Kai Pothai Punn Hai Thinhee Dharasan Paaeiaa ||19||
Those who have virtue as their treasure, obtain the Blessed Vision of His Darshan. ||19||

• ਸਭੁ ਜਗੁ ਫਿਰਿ ਮੈ ਦੇਖਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਇਕੋ ਦਾਤਾ ॥ (Raag Gujri M. 3, GGS. 510-16).
  Sabh Jag Fir Mai Dhaekhiaa Har Eiko Dhaathaa ||
  Roaming over the entire world, I have seen that the Lord is the only Giver.

ਉਪਾਇ ਕਿਤੈ ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਮ ਬਿਧਾਤਾ ॥
Oupaae Kithai N Paaeeai Har Karam Bidhhaathaa ||
The Lord cannot be obtained by any device at all; He is the Architect of Karma.

ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਹਰਿ ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ਹਰਿ ਸਹਜੇ ਜਾਤਾ ॥
Gur Sabadhee Har Man Vasai Har Sehajae Jaathaa ||
Through the Word of the Guru’s Shabad, the Lord comes to dwell in the mind, and the Lord is easily revealed within.

ਅੰਦਰਹੁ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਅਗਨਿ ਬੁਝੀ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਤਾ ॥
Andharahu Thrisanaa Agan Bujhee Har Anmrith Sar Naathaa ||
The fire of desire within is quenched, and one bathes in the Lord’s Pool of Ambrosial Nectar.

ਵਡੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵਡੇ ਕੀ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਬੋਲਾਤਾ ॥੬॥
Vaddee Vaddiaaee Vaddae Kee Guramukh Bolaathaa ||6||
The great greatness of the great Lord God – the Gurmukh speaks of this. ||6||

• ਸਪਤ ਦੀਪ ਸਪਤ ਸਾਗਰਾ ਨਵ ਖੰਡ ਚਾਰਿ ਵੇਦ ਦਸ ਅਸਟ ਪੁਰਾਣਾ ॥ ( Sri Raag M. 3, GGS. 84-4).
  Sapath Dheep Sapath Saagaraa Nav Khandd Chaar Vaedh Dhas Asatt Puraanaa ||
  The seven islands, seven seas, nine continents, four Vedas and eighteen Puraanas

ਹਰਿ ਸਭਨਾ ਵਿਚਿ ਤੂੰ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਸਭਨਾ ਭਾਣਾ ॥
Har Sabhanaa Vich Thoon Varathadhaa Har Sabhanaa Bhaanaa ||
O Lord, You pervade and permeate all. Lord, everyone loves You.

ਸਭਿ ਤੁਝੈ ਧਿਆਵਹਿ ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਹਰਿ ਸਾਰਗ ਪਾਣਾ ॥
Sabh Thujhai Dhhiaavehi Jeea Janth Har Saarag Paanaa ||
All beings and creatures meditate on You, Lord. You hold the earth in Your Hands.

ਜੋ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਆਰਾਧਦੇ ਤਿਨ ਹਉ ਕੁਰਬਾਣਾ ॥
Jo Guramukh Har Aaraadhhadhae Thin Ho Kurabaanaa ||
I am a sacrifice to those Gurmukhs who worship and adore the Lord.

ਤੂੰ ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਕਰਿ ਚੋਜ ਵਿਡਾਣਾ ॥੪॥
Thoon Aapae Aap Varathadhaa Kar Choj Viddaanaa ||4||
You Yourself are All-pervading; You stage this wondrous drama! ||4||

• ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਜਿਤੁ ਪੀਤੈ ਤਿਖ ਜਾਇ ॥ (Raag Malar M.3, GGS. 1283-3).
  Anmrith Har Kaa Naam Hai Jith Peethai Thikh Jaae ||
  The Name of the Lord is Ambrosial Nectar; drinking it in, thirst is quenched.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਪੀਆ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਬਹੁੜਿ ਨ ਲਾਗੀ ਆਇ ॥੧॥
Naanak Guramukh Jinh Peeaa Thinh Bahurr N Laagee Aae ||1||
O Nanak, those Gurmukhs who drink it in shall never again be afflicted by thirst. ||1||

• ਜਹ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਭਇਆ ਤਹ ਉਪਾਧਿ ਗਤੁ ਕੀਨੀ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਹਰਿ ਜਪਨਾ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 4, GGS. 670-2).
  Jeh Har Simaran Bhaeiaa Theh Oupaadhh Gath Keenee Vaddabhaagee Har Japanaa ||
  Wherever anyone remembers the Lord in meditation, disaster runs away from that place. By great good fortune, we meditate on the Lord.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਉ ਗੁਰਿ ਇਹ ਮਤਿ ਦੀਨੀ ਜਪਿ ਹਰਿ ਭਵਜਲੁ ਤਰਨਾ ॥੨॥੬॥੧੨॥
Jan Naanak Ko Gur Eih Math Dheenee Jap Har Bhavajal Tharanaa ||2||6||12||
The Guru has blessed servant Nanak with this understanding, that by meditating on the Lord, we cross over the terrifying world-ocean. ||2||6||12||

• ਅਉਖਧੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਜਿਤੁ ਰੋਗੁ ਨ ਵਿਆਪੈ ॥ (Raag Bilaaval M. 5, GGS. 814-7).
  Aoukhadhh Har Kaa Naam Hai Jith Rog N Viaapai ||
  The Name of the Lord is the medicine to cure all disease; with it, no disease afflicts me.

ਸਾਧਸੰਗਿ ਮਨਿ ਤਨਿ ਹਿਤੈ ਫਿਰਿ ਦੂਖੁ ਨ ਜਾਪੈ ॥੨॥
Saadhhasang Man Than Hithai Fir Dhookh N Jaapai ||2||
In the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, the mind and body are tinged with the Lord’s Love, and I do not suffer pain any longer. ||2||

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਜਾਪੀਐ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥
Har Har Har Har Jaapeeai Anthar Liv Laaee ||
I chant the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, Har, Har, lovingly centering my inner being on Him.

ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਉਤਰਹਿ ਸੁਧੁ ਹੋਇ ਸਾਧੂ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੩॥
Kilavikh Outharehi Sudhh Hoe Saadhhoo Saranaaee ||3||
Sinful mistakes are erased and I am sanctified, in the Sanctuary of the Holy Saints. ||3||

ਸੁਨਤ ਜਪਤ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮ ਜਸੁ ਤਾ ਕੀ ਦੂਰਿ ਬਲਾਈ ॥
Sunath Japath Har Naam Jas Thaa Kee Dhoor Balaaee ||
Misfortune is kept far away from those who hear and chant the Praises of the Lord’s Name.

ਮਹਾ ਮੰਤ੍ਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਕਥੈ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਈ ॥੪॥੨੩॥੫੩॥
Mehaa Manthra Naanak Kathhai Har Kae Gun Gaaee ||4||23||53||
Nanak chants the Mahaa Mantra, the Great Mantra, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||4||23||53||

• ਪ੍ਰਭ ਜੀ ਤੇਰੀ ਓਟ ਗੁਸਾਈ ॥ (Raag Sorath M. 5, GGS. 630-10).
  Prabh Jee Thaeree Outt Gusaaee ||
  Dear God, Lord of the world, You are my only support.

ਤੂ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਸਰਨਿ ਕਾ ਦਾਤਾ ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਤੁਮ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਧਿਆਈ ॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Thoo Samarathh Saran Kaa Dhaathaa Aath Pehar Thumh Dhhiaaee || Rehaao ||
You are all-powerful, the Giver of Sanctuary; twenty-four hours a day, I meditate on You. ||Pause||

ਜੋ ਜਨੁ ਭਜਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਤੇਰਾ ਤਿਸੈ ਅੰਦੇਸਾ ਨਾਹੀ ॥
Jo Jan Bhajan Karae Prabh Thaeraa Thisai Andhaesaa Naahee ||
That humble being, who vibrates upon You, O God, is not afflicted by anxiety.

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਚਰਨ ਲਗੇ ਭਉ ਮਿਟਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਏ ਮਨ ਮਾਹੀ ॥੨॥
Sathigur Charan Lagae Bho Mittiaa Har Gun Gaaeae Man Maahee ||2||
Attached to the Feet of the True Guru, his fear is dispelled, and within his mind, he sings the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||2||

• ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਵਰਸੈ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਧਾਰਿ ॥ (Raag Malar M. 3, GGS. 1281-18).
  Anmrith Har Kaa Naam Hai Varasai Kirapaa Dhhaar ||
  The Name of the Lord is Ambrosial Nectar; the Lord showers His Grace, and it rains down.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਦਰੀ ਆਇਆ ਹਰਿ ਆਤਮ ਰਾਮੁ ਮੁਰਾਰਿ ॥੨॥
Naanak Guramukh Nadharee Aaeiaa Har Aatham Raam Muraar ||2||
O Nanak, the Gurmukh comes to behold the Lord, the Supreme Soul. ||2||

• ਕਰਿ ਬੰਦਨ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਬਾਛਉ ਸਾਧਹ ਧੂਰਿ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 927-11).
  Kar Bandhan Prabh Paarabreham Baashho Saadhheh Dhhoor ||
  Bow to the Supreme Lord God, and seek the dust of the feet of the Holy.

ਆਪੁ ਨਿਵਾਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਉ ਨਾਨਕ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਭਰਪੂਰਿ ॥੧॥
Aap Nivaar Har Har Bhajo Naanak Prabh Bharapoor ||1||
Cast out your self-conceit, and vibrate, meditate, on the Lord, Har, Har. O Nanak, God is all-pervading. ||1||

ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਕਾਟਣ ਭੈ ਹਰਣ ਸੁਖ ਸਾਗਰ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਇ ॥
Kilavikh Kaattan Bhai Haran Sukh Saagar Har Raae ||
He is the Eradicator of sins, the Destroyer of fear, the Ocean of peace, the Sovereign Lord King.

ਦੀਨ ਦਇਆਲ ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੋ ਨਾਨਕ ਨੀਤ ਧਿਆਇ ॥੨॥
Dheen Dhaeiaal Dhukh Bhanjano Naanak Neeth Dhhiaae ||2||
Merciful to the meek, the Destroyer of pain: O Nanak, always meditate on Him. ||2||

• ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾ ਸਿਉ ਸੰਗੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਵਡੈ ਪੁਨ ॥ (Raag Jaitsiri M. 5, GGS. 709-18).
  Santh Janaa Sio Sang Paaeeai Vaddai Pun ||
  The Society of the Saints is obtained, by very good deeds.

ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਹਰਿ ਧਿਆਇ ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਨਿਤ ਸੁਨ ॥੧੭॥
Aath Pehar Har Dhhiaae Har Jas Nith Sun ||17||
Twenty-four hours a day, meditate on the Lord, and listen continually to the Lord’s Praises. ||17||

• ਬੰਧਨ ਕਾਟੇ ਆਪਿ ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਹੋਆ ਕਿਰਪਾਲ ॥ (Raag Bilavaal M. 5, GGS. 814-5).
  Bandhhan Kaattae Aap Prabh Hoaa Kirapaal ||
  My bonds have been snapped; God Himself has become compassionate.

ਦੀਨ ਦਇਆਲ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਤਾ ਕੀ ਨਦਰਿ ਨਿਹਾਲ ॥੧॥
Dheen Dhaeiaal Prabh Paarabreham Thaa Kee Nadhar Nihaal ||1||
The Supreme Lord God is Merciful to the meek; by His Glance of Grace, I am in ecstasy. ||1||

ਗੁਰਿ ਪੂਰੈ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੀ ਕਾਟਿਆ ਦੁਖੁ ਰੋਗੁ ॥
Gur Poorai Kirapaa Karee Kaattiaa Dhukh Rog ||
The Perfect Guru has shown mercy to me, and eradicated my pains and illnesses.

ਮਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਸੀਤਲੁ ਸੁਖੀ ਭਇਆ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਧਿਆਵਨ ਜੋਗੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Man Than Seethal Sukhee Bhaeiaa Prabh Dhhiaavan Jog ||1|| Rehaao ||
My mind and body have been cooled and soothed, meditating on God, most worthy of meditation. ||1||Pause||

ਅਉਖਧੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਜਿਤੁ ਰੋਗੁ ਨ ਵਿਆਪੈ ॥
Aoukhadhh Har Kaa Naam Hai Jith Rog N Viaapai ||
The Name of the Lord is the medicine to cure all disease; with it, no disease afflicts me.

ਸਾਧਸੰਗਿ ਮਨਿ ਤਨਿ ਹਿਤੈ ਫਿਰਿ ਦੂਖੁ ਨ ਜਾਪੈ ॥੨॥
Saadhhasang Man Than Hithai Fir Dhookh N Jaapai ||2||
In the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, the mind and body are tinged with the Lord’s Love, and I do not suffer pain any longer. ||2||

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਜਾਪੀਐ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥
Har Har Har Har Jaapeeai Anthar Liv Laaee ||
I chant the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, Har, Har, lovingly centering my inner being on Him.

ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਉਤਰਹਿ ਸੁਧੁ ਹੋਇ ਸਾਧੂ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੩॥
Kilavikh Outharehi Sudhh Hoe Saadhhoo Saranaaee ||3||
Sinful mistakes are erased and I am sanctified, in the Sanctuary of the Holy Saints. ||3||

ਸੁਨਤ ਜਪਤ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮ ਜਸੁ ਤਾ ਕੀ ਦੂਰਿ ਬਲਾਈ ॥
Sunath Japath Har Naam Jas Thaa Kee Dhoor Balaaee ||
Misfortune is kept far away from those who hear and chant the Praises of the Lord’s Name.

ਮਹਾ ਮੰਤ੍ਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਕਥੈ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਈ ॥੪॥੨੩॥੫੩॥
Mehaa Manthra Naanak Kathhai Har Kae Gun Gaaee ||4||23||53||
Nanak chants the Mahaa Mantra, the Great Mantra, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||4||23||53||

• ਹਰਿ ਗਿਆਨੀਆ ਕੀ ਰਖਦਾ ਹਉ ਸਦ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਤਾਸੁ ॥ (Salok Vaaraan and Vadheek M. 3, GGS. 1415-4).
  Har Giaaneeaa Kee Rakhadhaa Ho Sadh Balihaaree Thaas ||
  The Lord saves the honor of the spiritually wise ones.I am forever a sacrifice to them.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜੋ ਹਰਿ ਸੇਵਦੇ ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਤਾ ਕਾ ਦਾਸੁ ॥੨੧॥
Guramukh Jo Har Saevadhae Jan Naanak Thaa Kaa Dhaas ||21||
Servant Nanak is the slave of those Gurmukhs who serve the Lord. ||21||

According to the Gurbani Har-ras is a blissful state of connectivity with Waheguru (Naam). Guru Amar Das Ji explains the importance of Har-ras in Anand Sahib in Pauris 32, 37 and 38. Guru Ji says that all the worldly tastes/enjoyments lack the ras (essence of enjoyment) that one enjoys when one is enshrining Waheguru in one’s heart. The state of enjoyment of Har-ras comes only to those who first connect with a Guru in order to receive Waheguru’s grace and His Nad/kirpa in obtaining the ecstatic state of Naam.

ਏ ਰਸਨਾ ਤੂ ਅਨ ਰਸਿ ਰਾਚਿ ਰਹੀ ਤੇਰੀ ਪਿਆਸ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥ (Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 921).
O my tongue, you are engrossed in other tastes, but your thirsty desire is not quenched.

ਪਿਆਸ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਹੋਰਤੁ ਕਿਤੈ ਜਿਚਰੁ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਲੈ ਨ ਪਾਇ ॥
Your thirst shall not be quenched by any means, until you attain the subtle essence of the Lord.

ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਇ ਪਲੈ ਪੀਐ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਬਹੁੜਿ ਨ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਲਾਗੈ ਆਇ ॥
If you do obtain the subtle essence of the Lord, and drink in this essence of the Lord, you shall not be troubled by desire again.

ਏਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਕਰਮੀ ਪਾਈਐ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਜਿਸੁ ਆਇ ॥
This subtle essence of the Lord is obtained by good karma, when one comes to meet with the True Guru.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਹੋਰਿ ਅਨ ਰਸ ਸਭਿ ਵੀਸਰੇ ਜਾ ਹਰਿ ਵਸੈ ਮਨਿ ਆਇ ॥੩੨॥
Says Nanak, all other tastes and essences are forgotten, when the Lord comes to dwell within the mind. ||32||

In order to obtain Har-ras (Har-Naam), Guru Ji recommends reading/studying and listening to Gur-sabd and Gurbani.

ਅਨਹਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦਿ ਜਾਣੀ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਭੋਗੋ ॥ (Raag Ramkalee M. 3, GGS. 921).
I have come to know the unstruck sound current and the Word of the Guru’s Shabad; I enjoy the sublime essence of the Lord, the Lord’s Name.

Guru Ram Das Ji adds that blessed is the company of those who dwell in Naam i.e. in the bliss of “Gurbani eis jag mehi chaanan”.

• ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਜਿਤੁ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਇਆ ਮਿਲਿ ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਰਗਾਸਿ ॥੪॥੪॥ (Raag Goojree M. 4, GGS. 10-8).
  Blessed, blessed is the Sat Sangat, the True Congregation, where the Lord’s Essence is obtained. Meeting with His humble servant, O Nanak, the Light of the Naam shines forth. ||4||4||
• ਨਾਮਦੇਵ ਕਬੀਰੁ ਤਿਲੋਚਨੁ ਸਧਨਾ ਸੈਨੁ ਤਰੈ ॥ (Raag Maroo Bhagat Ravidas, GGS. 1106-14),
  Naamadhaev Kabeer Thilochan Sadhhanaa Sain Tharai ||
  Naam Dayv, Kabeer, Trilochan, Sadhana and Sain crossed over.

ਕਹਿ ਰਵਿਦਾਸੁ ਸੁਨਹੁ ਰੇ ਸੰਤਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਤੇ ਸਭੈ ਸਰੈ ॥੨॥੧॥
Kehi Ravidhaas Sunahu Rae Santhahu Har Jeeo Thae Sabhai Sarai ||2||1||
Says Ravi Daas, listen, O Saints, through the Dear Lord, all is accomplished. ||2||1||

• ਹਰਿ ਜਨੁ ਐਸਾ ਚਾਹੀਐ ਜੈਸਾ ਹਰਿ ਹੀ ਹੋਇ ॥੧੪੯॥ (Salok Bhagat Kabir, GGS. 1372-9).
  Har Jan Aisaa Chaaheeai Jaisaa Har Hee Hoe ||149||
  The humble servant of the Lord should be just like the Lord. ||149||

According to the Gurbani, the Har-ras can easily control all temptations of Maya and one can live a good life free from vices such as anger, lust, greed, attachments, ego; and one can easily abstains from the use of alcoholic intoxicants and uplifting drugs etc. A certain degree of Har-ras through the Gurbani is a sure remedy to bring the prevalent Punjab’s current problems of excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other harmful drugs among the Sikhs. Nit-nem is a must prescription!

Sarab Nidhaan Nanak Har Rang

‘Har Rang’ is an awastha in which one is “IK-MIK” with WAHEGURU. This necessitates Waheguru Naam Japnna followed by Simrn of Waheguru Naam leading to Liv with Waheguru – and thus becoming a “Rangratra”in Waheguru Naam.

• ਨਾਨਕ ਸਿਫਤੀ ਰਤਿਆ ਮਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਹਰਿਆ ਹੋਇ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS. 1240-14).
  O Nanak, imbued with the Lord’s Praise, the mind and body blossom forth, rejuvenated.
• ਸਫਲ ਜੀਵਨੁ ਸਫਲੁ ਤਾ ਕਾ ਸੰਗੁ ॥ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਲਾਗਾ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗੁ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 295-10).
  His life is prosperous, and his company is fruitful. Whose mind is imbued with the love of the Lord.
• ਜਾ ਕਉ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗੁ ਲਾਗੋ ਇਸੁ ਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਸੋ ਕਹੀਅਤ ਹੈ ਸੂਰਾ ॥ (Raag Dhansaaree M. 5, GGS. 679-17).
  He alone is called a warrior, who is attached to the Lord’s Love in this age.

ਆਤਮ ਜਿਣੈ ਸਗਲ ਵਸਿ ਤਾ ਕੈ ਜਾ ਕਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੂਰਾ ॥੧॥
Through the Perfect True Guru, he conquers his own soul, and then everything comes under his control. ||1||

• ਚਿੰਤਤ ਹੀ ਦੀਸੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋਇ ॥ ਚੇਤਹਿ ਏਕੁ ਤਹੀ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਇ ॥(Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 932-16).
  Everyone has worries and cares. He alone finds peace, who thinks of the One Lord.

ਚਿਤਿ ਵਸੈ ਰਾਚੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਇ ॥ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਭਇਆ ਪਤਿ ਸਿਉ ਘਰਿ ਜਾਇ ॥੨੩॥
When the Lord dwells in the consciousness, and one is absorbed in the Lord’s Name, One is liberated, and returns home with honor. ||23||

For us it would be better to follow Guru Ram Das Ji:-

• ਗੁਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਜੋ ਸਿਖੁ ਅਖਾਏ ਸੁ ਭਲਕੇ ਉਠਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥ (Raag Gaurhee M. 4, GGS. 305).
  He, who calls himself a Sikh of the Great True Guru, should rise early and meditate on God’s Name.

ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰੇ ਭਲਕੇ ਪਰਭਾਤੀ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਵੈ ॥
He should make efforts early in the morning take bath and have ablution in the tank of Nectar.

ਉਪਦੇਸਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਜਪੁ ਜਾਪੈ ਸਭਿ ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਪਾਪ ਦੋਖ ਲਹਿ ਜਾਵੈ ॥
By repeating Lords God’s Name under Guru’s instruction all his sins misdeeds and accusations are wiped off.

ਫਿਰਿ ਚੜੈ ਦਿਵਸੁ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਗਾਵੈ ਬਹਦਿਆ ਉਠਦਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥
Afterwards at sun rise he sings Gurbani and whilst sitting or standing he meditates in God’s Name.

ਜੋ ਸਾਸਿ ਗਿਰਾਸਿ ਧਿਆਏ ਮੇਰਾ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵੈ ॥
The Guru’s disciple who with every breath and morsel contemplates over my Lord God he becomes pleasing to Guru’s mind.

ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਦਇਆਲੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਗੁਰੂ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥
He unto whom my Master becomes merciful to that disciple of his, the guru imparts his instruction.

ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਧੂੜਿ ਮੰਗੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਹ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ ॥੨॥
Servant Nanak asks for the dust of the feet of that Sikh of the Guru, who himself contemplates on God’s Name and makes others contemplate thereon.

Har Naam is the greatest kramat/miracle in Sikhi

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ਏਹਾ ਸਿਧਿ ਏਹਾ ਕਰਮਾਤਿ ॥੨॥ (Raag Sorath M. 3, GGS. 65-7)
O Nanak, the Lord’s Name abides in the mind of the Gurmukh; this is spirituality, and this is miraculous power. ||2||

ਨਾਮੈ ਹੀ ਤੇ ਸਭੁ ਪਰਗਟੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਮੇ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਈ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 946-13).
Through the Name, everything is revealed; through the Name, understanding is obtained

ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸੋ ਭਉ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਗੁਰਿ ਮਿਲਿਐ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੧੦॥ (Raag Maaroo M. 1, GGS. 1046-6).
O Nanak, the Lord God is the Destroyer of fear; meeting the Guru, the Lord God is found. ||10||

Everything is possible with Naam – connectivity with Har/Waheguru in the driving seat. The difference in the Supreme ‘Soojee’ of a Saint (with exhaulted Divine awareness) and an ordinary person is so much that what appears as a ‘Hukam’ to a Saint the same appears as a miracle to others. The only miracle in Sikhi is “liv”- the extent of Liv is beyond description by ordinary people. (‘Manne ki gat kahi na jaaei’- Jap Ji Sahib).

• 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||

• ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੨੯॥ (Salok M. 9, GGS. 1428-1).
  Har Jan Har Anthar Nehee Naanak Saachee Maan ||29||
  There is no difference between the Lord and the humble servant of the Lord; O Nanak, know this as true. ||29||

ਸੂਖੁ ਭਇਆ ਦੁਖੁ ਦੂਰਿ ਪਰਾਨਾ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 5, GGS. 103-8).
Sookh Bhaeiaa Dhukh Dhoor Paraanaa ||
Happiness is obtained, and sorrow runs far away,

ਸੰਤ ਰਸਨ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਵਖਾਨਾ ॥
Santh Rasan Har Naam Vakhaanaa ||
When the Saints chant the Lord’s Name.

• ਜਮੂਆ ਨ ਜੋਹੈ ਹਰਿ ਕੀ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 3, GGS. 231-13).
  Jamooaa N Johai Har Kee Saranaaee ||
  The Messenger of Death does not catch sight of those who enter the Sanctuary of the Lord.

ਹਉਮੈ ਮਾਰਿ ਸਚਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥
Houmai Maar Sach Liv Laaee ||
Subduing egotism, they lovingly center their consciousness on the True Lord.

ਸਦਾ ਰਹੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥੫॥
Sadhaa Rehai Har Naam Liv Laaee ||5||
They keep their consciousness constantly focused on the Lord’s Name. ||5||

Kindly advise, if Jaap of Har is as per Gurmat or not?

• ਹਮ ਗਰੀਬ ਮਸਕੀਨ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਤੇਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਖੁ ਰਾਖੁ ਵਡ ਵਡਾ ਹੇ ॥ (Raag Gauri Poorbee M. 1, GGS. 13-13).
  Ham Gareeb Masakeen Prabh Thaerae Har Raakh Raakh Vadd Vaddaa Hae ||
  I am poor and meek, God, but I belong to You! Save me-please save me, O Greatest of the Great!

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਅਧਾਰੁ ਟੇਕ ਹੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੇ ਹੀ ਸੁਖੁ ਮੰਡਾ ਹੇ ॥੪॥੪॥
Jan Naanak Naam Adhhaar Ttaek Hai Har Naamae Hee Sukh Manddaa Hae ||4||4||
Servant Nanak takes the Sustenance and Support of the Naam. In the Name of the Lord, he enjoys celestial peace. ||4||4||

Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Arjan Dev Ji further endorse the sentiments of Guru Nanak Sahib:-

• ਏ ਸਰੀਰਾ ਮੇਰਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਤੁਮ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਰਖੀ ਤਾ ਤੂ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਆਇਆ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 921-14).
  Eae Sareeraa Maeriaa Har Thum Mehi Joth Rakhee Thaa Thoo Jag Mehi Aaeiaa ||
  O my body, the Lord infused His Light into you, and then you came into the world.

ਹਰਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਰਖੀ ਤੁਧੁ ਵਿਚਿ ਤਾ ਤੂ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਆਇਆ ॥
Har Joth Rakhee Thudhh Vich Thaa Thoo Jag Mehi Aaeiaa ||
The Lord infused His Light into you, and then you came into the world.

ਹਰਿ ਆਪੇ ਮਾਤਾ ਆਪੇ ਪਿਤਾ ਜਿਨਿ ਜੀਉ ਉਪਾਇ ਜਗਤੁ ਦਿਖਾਇਆ ॥
Har Aapae Maathaa Aapae Pithaa Jin Jeeo Oupaae Jagath Dhikhaaeiaa ||
The Lord Himself is your mother, and He Himself is your father; He created the created beings, and revealed the world to them.

• ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਸਿਮਰਹੁ ਚਲੈ ਤੇਰੈ ਸਾਥੇ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, GGS. 461-6).
  Aath Pehar Har Naam Simarahu Chalai Thaerai Saathhae ||
  Twenty-four hours a day, dwell upon the Lord’s Name in meditation; it alone shall go along with you.

ਭਜੁ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਸਦਾ ਨਾਨਕ ਮਿਟਹਿ ਦੋਖ ਕਮਾਤੇ ॥੧॥
Bhaj Saadhhasangath Sadhaa Naanak Mittehi Dhokh Kamaathae ||1||
So vibrate continually in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, O Nanak, and the sins you committed shall be erased. ||1||

ਵਲਵੰਚ ਕਰਿ ਉਦਰੁ ਭਰਹਿ ਮੂਰਖ ਗਾਵਾਰਾ ॥
Valavanch Kar Oudhar Bharehi Moorakh Gaavaaraa ||
Practicing deceit, you fill your belly, you ignorant fool!

ਸਭੁ ਕਿਛੁ ਦੇ ਰਹਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਦੇਵਣਹਾਰਾ ॥
Sabh Kishh Dhae Rehiaa Har Dhaevanehaaraa ||
The Lord, the Great Giver, continues to give you everything.

I am, thus inclined reasonably to remember Har as well on daily basis on the advice as per Gurmat..

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

PS:-
The Guru of the Sikhs is: “Agam roop gobind ka anik naam aapaar” (the one who everywhere with different names).

The numerous names also appear in the Guru Granth Sahib: Ik Onkar, satnam, kadir kareem, raam, raheem, parmatma, bhagwan, prabhu, rab, allah, khudha, god, yahowa, beethal, madhusudan, madho, akalpurakh, waheguru, khasam, pita, mittar, pranpati, sajjan, bandhap, sakha, bharata, rachanhara, sirjanhara, palanhara, prithpalak, gharanhara, bhanjanhara, gosain, gopal, dinanath, nath, deen-dyal,damodar, karta, harta, bharta, padampat, karunaidh, aad-purak, karta-purak, niranjan, nirankar, pooran purak. datta, bidata,, avtoot, sat-purak, akal-purakh, abinasi-purak, parbhram, parmesar, sat-karta, bhram, dhitman, dharadhar, dharridhar, dhanurpan, gharagket,antarzami, jagdish, banwari, banwali, madhaw,mukandh, murari, bhisambar, amiteshvar, sarabeshvar, jagtesvar, achut, anatarjami, damodar, swami, rikikesh, govardan, murli manohar, jagan-nath, jagjiwan datta, bhu-bhajjan, govind, hari, har etc etc (by courtesy of Prof. Kirpal Singh Badungar, Gurmat Parkash, March 2012 page 9).

“Nirbhu nirankar sach naam ja ki kiaha sagal jahan” (This conveys that the Almighty God is reality who is behind the entire creation).

Guru Nanak Sahib on his own tells who is his Guru though Guru Nanak used ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ but not Wah Guru:

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਵਾਟ ਦਿਖਾਵੈ ॥ ( Guru Nanak, GGS. 226).
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who shows us the Way.

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who teaches the Word of the Sabd.

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਮੇਲਿ ਮਿਲਾਵੈ ॥੬॥
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who unites me in the Lord’s Union. ||6||

Here Guru Nanak is praising that person, who would show the right way, explain the Sabd and help him know the Almighty God.

Then Guru Nanak Sahib is describing his Guru as follows:

ਗੁਰੁ ਪਉੜੀ ਬੇੜੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੁ ਤੁਲਹਾ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Guru Nanak Sahib, GGS. 17).
The Guru is the Ladder, the Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Raft to take me to the Lord’s Name.

Here Guru Nanak Sahib says that the one who is a ladder, boat and raft is my Guru to guide me to know the God/Almighty.

Guru Nanak’s Guru is a ladder, boat and raft and is known by numerous names as given above and many more when you include the names given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Jaap Sahib. If Guru did not believe in these names, he would have not quoted these in his Bani and likewise the other authors of Bani in the Guru Granth Sahib.

Har is used in the Guru Granth Sahib frequently and interchanged with other Divine Names as given below:-

• ਹਰਿ ਏਕੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਗਾਈਐ ਸਭ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਸੋਈ ॥ (Raag Jaitsiri M. 5, GGS. 706-2).
  Har Eaek Niranjan Gaaeeai Sabh Anthar Soee ||
  Sing the Praise of the One, the Immaculate Lord; He is contained within all.

ਕਰਣ ਕਾਰਣ ਸਮਰਥ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜੋ ਕਰੇ ਸੁ ਹੋਈ ॥
Karan Kaaran Samarathh Prabh Jo Karae S Hoee ||
The Cause of causes, the Almighty Lord God; whatever He wills, comes to pass.

ਖਿਨ ਮਹਿ ਥਾਪਿ ਉਥਾਪਦਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਬਿਨੁ ਨਹੀ ਕੋਈ ॥
Khin Mehi Thhaap Outhhaapadhaa This Bin Nehee Koee ||
In an instant, He establishes and disestablishes; without Him, there is no other.

ਖੰਡ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੰਡ ਪਾਤਾਲ ਦੀਪ ਰਵਿਆ ਸਭ ਲੋਈ ॥
Khandd Brehamandd Paathaal Dheep Raviaa Sabh Loee ||
He pervades the continents, solar systems, nether worlds, islands and all worlds.

ਜਿਸੁ ਆਪਿ ਬੁਝਾਏ ਸੋ ਬੁਝਸੀ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਜਨੁ ਸੋਈ ॥੧॥
Jis Aap Bujhaaeae So Bujhasee Niramal Jan Soee ||1||
He alone understands, whom the Lord Himself instructs; he alone is a pure and unstained being. ||1||

Amrit vele da Hukamnama Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Amritsar, Ang 637, 13-Nov.-2024

ਸੋਰਠਿ ਮਹਲਾ ੩ ਘਰੁ ੧ ਤਿਤੁਕੀ ॥ ਭਗਤਾ ਦੀ ਸਦਾ ਤੂ ਰਖਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਧੁਰਿ ਤੂ ਰਖਦਾ ਆਇਆ ॥ ਪ੍ਰਹਿਲਾਦ ਜਨ ਤੁਧੁ ਰਾਖਿ ਲਏ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਹਰਣਾਖਸੁ ਮਾਰਿ ਪਚਾਇਆ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਾ ਨੋ ਪਰਤੀਤਿ ਹੈ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਮਨਮੁਖ ਭਰਮਿ ਭੁਲਾਇਆ ॥੧॥ ਹਰਿ ਜੀ ਏਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥ ਭਗਤਾ ਕੀ ਪੈਜ ਰਖੁ ਤੂ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਭਗਤ ਤੇਰੀ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ ਭਗਤਾ ਨੋ ਜਮੁ ਜੋਹਿ ਨ ਸਾਕੈ ਕਾਲੁ ਨ ਨੇੜੈ ਜਾਈ ॥ ਕੇਵਲ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਨਾਮੇ ਹੀ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਪਾਈ ॥ ਰਿਧਿ ਸਿਧਿ ਸਭ ਭਗਤਾ ਚਰਣੀ ਲਾਗੀ ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਹਜਿ ਸੁਭਾਈ ॥੨।।ਮਨਮੁਖਾ ਨੋ ਪਰਤੀਤਿ ਨ ਆਵੀ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਲੋਭ ਸੁਆਉ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਸਬਦੁ ਨ ਭੇਦਿਓ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਨ ਲਾਗਾ ਭਾਉ ॥ ਕੂੜ ਕਪਟ ਪਾਜੁ ਲਹਿ ਜਾਸੀ ਮਨਮੁਖ ਫੀਕਾ ਅਲਾਉ ॥੩॥ ਭਗਤਾ ਵਿਚਿ ਆਪਿ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਜੀ ਭਗਤੀ ਹੂ ਤੂ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹ ਸਭ ਲੋਕ ਹੈ ਤੇਰੀ ਤੂ ਏਕੋ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਬਿਧਾਤਾ ॥ ਹਉਮੈ ਮਾਰਿ ਮਨਸਾ ਮਨਹਿ ਸਮਾਣੀ ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਪਛਾਤਾ ॥੪॥ ਅਚਿੰਤ ਕੰਮ ਕਰਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਤਿਨ ਕੇ ਜਿਨ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਿਆਰਾ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦਿ ਸਦਾ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਸਭਿ ਕਾਜ ਸਵਾਰਣਹਾਰਾ ॥ ਓਨਾ ਕੀ ਰੀਸ ਕਰੇ ਸੁ ਵਿਗੁਚੈ ਜਿਨ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਹੈ ਰਖਵਾਰਾ ॥੫॥ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਵੇ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ ਮਨਮੁਖਿ ਭਉਕਿ ਮੁਏ ਬਿਲਲਾਈ ॥ ਆਵਹਿ ਜਾਵਹਿ ਠਉਰ ਨ ਪਾਵਹਿ ਦੁਖ ਮਹਿ ਦੁਖਿ ਸਮਾਈ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹੋਵੈ ਸੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਵੈ ਸਹਜੇ ਸਾਚਿ ਸਮਾਈ ॥੬॥ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਵੇ ਜਨਮੁ ਨ ਛੋਡੈ ਜੇ ਅਨੇਕ ਕਰਮ ਕਰੈ ਅਧਿਕਾਈ ॥ ਵੇਦ ਪੜਹਿ ਤੈ ਵਾਦ ਵਖਾਣਹਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਪਤਿ ਗਵਾਈ ॥ ਸਚਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਸਾਚੀ ਜਿਸੁ ਬਾਣੀ ਭਜਿ ਛੂਟਹਿ ਗੁਰ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੭॥ ਜਿਨ ਹਰਿ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਸੇ ਦਰਿ ਸਾਚੇ ਦਰਿ ਸਾਚੈ ਸਚਿਆਰਾ ॥ ਓਨਾ ਦੀ ਸੋਭਾ ਜੁਗਿ ਜੁਗਿ ਹੋਈ ਕੋਇ ਨ ਮੇਟਣਹਾਰਾ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨ ਕੈ ਸਦ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੈ ਜਿਨ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਖਿਆ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰਾ ॥੮॥੧॥

• ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੰਤ ਮਿਲਹੁ ਮੇਰੇ ਭਾਈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਦ੍ਰਿੜਾਵਹੁ ਇਕ ਕਿਨਕਾ ॥(Raag Sorath M. 3, GGS. 650-17).
  Har Har Santh Milahu Maerae Bhaaee Har Naam Dhrirraavahu Eik Kinakaa ||
  O Saints of the Lord, O my Siblings of Destiny, please meet with me, and implant the Name of the One Lord within me.

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੀਗਾਰੁ ਬਨਾਵਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਕਾਪੜੁ ਪਹਿਰਹੁ ਖਿਮ ਕਾ ॥
Har Har Seegaar Banaavahu Har Jan Har Kaaparr Pehirahu Khim Kaa ||
O humble servants of the Lord, adorn me with the decorations of the Lord, Har, Har; let me wear the robes of the Lord’s forgiveness.

ਐਸਾ ਸੀਗਾਰੁ ਮੇਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਭਾਵੈ ਹਰਿ ਲਾਗੈ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਿਮ ਕਾ ॥
Aisaa Seegaar Maerae Prabh Bhaavai Har Laagai Piaaraa Prim Kaa ||
Such decorations are pleasing to my God; such love is dear to the Lord.

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਬੋਲਹੁ ਦਿਨੁ ਰਾਤੀ ਸਭਿ ਕਿਲਬਿਖ ਕਾਟੈ ਇਕ ਪਲਕਾ ॥
Har Har Naam Bolahu Dhin Raathee Sabh Kilabikh Kaattai Eik Palakaa ||
I chant the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, day and night; in an instant, all sins are eradicated.

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਦਇਆਲੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਜਿਸੁ ਉਪਰਿ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਜਪਿ ਜਿਣਕਾ ॥੨੧॥
Har Har Dhaeiaal Hovai Jis Oupar So Guramukh Har Jap Jinakaa ||21||

That Gurmukh, unto whom the Lord becomes merciful, chants the Lord’s Name, and wins the game of life. ||21||

Amrit vele da Hukamnama Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Amritsar, Ang 647, 17-Nov.-2024

ਸਲੋਕੁ ਮਃ ੩ ॥ ਪਰਥਾਇ ਸਾਖੀ ਮਹਾ ਪੁਰਖ ਬੋਲਦੇ ਸਾਝੀ ਸਗਲ ਜਹਾਨੈ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹੋਇ ਸੁ ਭਉ ਕਰੇ ਆਪਣਾ ਆਪੁ ਪਛਾਣੈ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਜੀਵਤੁ ਮਰੈ ਤਾ ਮਨ ਹੀ ਤੇ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨੈ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਮਨ ਕੀ ਪਰਤੀਤਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੇ ਕਿਆ ਕਥਹਿ ਗਿਆਨੈ ॥੧॥ ਮਃ ੩ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਚਿਤੁ ਨ ਲਾਇਓ ਅੰਤਿ ਦੁਖੁ ਪਹੁਤਾ ਆਇ ॥ ਅੰਦਰਹੁ ਬਾਹਰਹੁ ਅੰਧਿਆਂ ਸੁਧਿ ਨ ਕਾਈ ਪਾਇ ॥ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਤਿਨ ਕੀ ਬਰਕਤੀ ਸਭੁ ਜਗਤੁ ਖਾਇ ਜੋ ਰਤੇ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਇ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਲਾਹਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਉ ਰਹੇ ਸਮਾਇ ॥ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਬਰਕਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਨਾ ਧਨੁ ਪਲੈ ਪਾਇ ॥ ਪੜਿ ਥਕੇ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਨ ਆਇਓ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਜਲਤ ਵਿਹਾਇ ॥ ਕੂਕ ਪੂਕਾਰ ਨ ਚੁਕਈ ਨਾ ਸੰਸਾ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਜਾਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਵਿਹੂਣਿਆ ਮੁਹਿ ਕਾਲੈ ਉਠਿ ਜਾਇ ॥੨॥ ਪਉੜੀ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਸਜਣ ਮੇਲਿ ਪਿਆਰੇ ਮਿਲਿ ਪੰਥੁ ਦਸਾਈ ॥ ਜੋ ਹਰਿ ਦਸੇ ਮਿਤੁ ਤਿਸੁ ਹਉ ਬਲਿ ਜਾਈ ॥ ਗੁਣ ਸਾਝੀ ਤਿਨ ਸਿਉ ਕਰੀ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਈ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਸੇਵੀ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਨਿਤ ਸੇਵਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਈ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਤਿਸੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਈ ॥੧੨॥॥

• ਕੋਈ ਆਵੈ ਸੰਤੋ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਜਨੁ ਸੰਤੋ ਮੇਰਾ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ ਜਨੁ ਸੰਤੋ ਮੋਹਿ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਦਿਖਲਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 4, GGS. 1201-11).
  Koee Aavai Santho Har Kaa Jan Santho Maeraa Preetham Jan Santho Mohi Maarag Dhikhalaavai ||
  If only some Saint, some humble Saint of the Lord, my Holy Beloved, would come, to show me the way.

ਤਿਸੁ ਜਨ ਕੇ ਹਉ ਮਲਿ ਮਲਿ ਧੋਵਾ ਪਾਓ‍ੁ ॥੧॥
This Jan Kae Ho Mal Mal Dhhovaa Paao ||1||
I would wash and massage the feet of that humble being. ||1||

ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਕਉ ਹਰਿ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਸਰਧਾ ਤੇ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਮਿਲਿਆ ॥
Har Jan Ko Har Miliaa Har Saradhhaa Thae Miliaa Guramukh Har Miliaa ||
The Lord’s humble servant meets the Lord, through his faith in the Lord; meeting the Lord, he becomes Gurmukh.

ਮੇਰੈ ਮਨਿ ਤਨਿ ਆਨੰਦ ਭਏ ਮੈ ਦੇਖਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਓ‍ੁ ॥
Maerai Man Than Aanandh Bheae Mai Dhaekhiaa Har Raao ||
My mind and body are in ecstasy; I have seen my Sovereign Lord King.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਉ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਭਈ ਹਰਿ ਕੀ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਭਈ ਜਗਦੀਸੁਰ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਭਈ ॥
Jan Naanak Ko Kirapaa Bhee Har Kee Kirapaa Bhee Jagadheesur Kirapaa Bhee ||
Servant Nanak has been blessed with Grace, blessed with the Lord’s Grace, blessed with the Grace of the Lord of the Universe.

ਮੈ ਅਨਦਿਨੋ ਸਦ ਸਦ ਸਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਜਪਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਓ‍ੁ ॥੨॥੩॥੧੦॥
Mai Anadhino Sadh Sadh Sadhaa Har Japiaa Har Naao ||2||3||10||
I meditate on the Lord, the Name of the Lord, night and day, forever, forever and ever. ||2||3||10||

Guru Teg Bahadur Ji uses various Divine names including HAR in the Guru Granth Sahib from page 1424-1129. Some excerpts are give as below and are self explanatory:-

ਗੁਨ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਗਾਇਓ ਨਹੀ ਜਨਮੁ ਅਕਾਰਥ ਕੀਨੁ ॥ (Salok M. 9, GGS. 1426-1429).
Gun Gobindh Gaaeiou Nehee Janam Akaarathh Keen ||
If you do not sing the Praises of the Lord, your life is rendered useless.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜੁ ਮਨਾ ਜਿਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਜਲ ਕਉ ਮੀਨੁ ॥੧॥
Kahu Naanak Har Bhaj Manaa Jih Bidhh Jal Ko Meen ||1||
Says Nanak, meditate, vibrate upon the Lord; immerse your mind in Him, like the fish in the water. ||1||

ਬਿਖਿਅਨ ਸਿਉ ਕਾਹੇ ਰਚਿਓ ਨਿਮਖ ਨ ਹੋਹਿ ਉਦਾਸੁ ॥
Bikhian Sio Kaahae Rachiou Nimakh N Hohi Oudhaas ||
Why are you engrossed in sin and corruption? You are not detached, even for a moment!

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਭਜੁ ਹਰਿ ਮਨਾ ਪਰੈ ਨ ਜਮ ਕੀ ਫਾਸ ॥੨॥
Kahu Naanak Bhaj Har Manaa Parai N Jam Kee Faas ||2||
Says Nanak, meditate, vibrate upon the Lord, and you shall not be caught in the noose of death. ||2||

ਤਰਨਾਪੋ ਇਉ ਹੀ ਗਇਓ ਲੀਓ ਜਰਾ ਤਨੁ ਜੀਤਿ ॥
Tharanaapo Eio Hee Gaeiou Leeou Jaraa Than Jeeth ||
Your youth has passed away like this, and old age has overtaken your body.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਭਜੁ ਹਰਿ ਮਨਾ ਅਉਧ ਜਾਤੁ ਹੈ ਬੀਤਿ ॥੩॥
Kahu Naanak Bhaj Har Manaa Aoudhh Jaath Hai Beeth ||3||
Says Nanak, meditate, vibrate upon the Lord; your life is fleeting away! ||3||

ਬਿਰਧਿ ਭਇਓ ਸੂਝੈ ਨਹੀ ਕਾਲੁ ਪਹੂਚਿਓ ਆਨਿ ॥
Biradhh Bhaeiou Soojhai Nehee Kaal Pehoochiou Aan ||
You have become old, and you do not understand that death is overtaking you.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਰ ਬਾਵਰੇ ਕਿਉ ਨ ਭਜੈ ਭਗਵਾਨੁ ॥੪॥
Kahu Naanak Nar Baavarae Kio N Bhajai Bhagavaan ||4||
Says Nanak, you are insane! Why do you not remember and meditate on God? ||4||

ਧਨੁ ਦਾਰਾ ਸੰਪਤਿ ਸਗਲ ਜਿਨਿ ਅਪੁਨੀ ਕਰਿ ਮਾਨਿ ॥
Dhhan Dhaaraa Sanpath Sagal Jin Apunee Kar Maan ||
Your wealth, spouse, and all the possessions which you claim as your own

ਇਨ ਮੈ ਕਛੁ ਸੰਗੀ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਜਾਨਿ ॥੫॥
Ein Mai Kashh Sangee Nehee Naanak Saachee Jaan ||5||

• none of these shall go along with you in the end. O Nanak, know this as true. ||5||

ਪਤਿਤ ਉਧਾਰਨ ਭੈ ਹਰਨ ਹਰਿ ਅਨਾਥ ਕੇ ਨਾਥ ॥
Pathith Oudhhaaran Bhai Haran Har Anaathh Kae Naathh ||
He is the Saving Grace of sinners, the Destroyer of fear, the Master of the masterless.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਹ ਜਾਨੀਐ ਸਦਾ ਬਸਤੁ ਤੁਮ ਸਾਥਿ ॥੬॥
Kahu Naanak Thih Jaaneeai Sadhaa Basath Thum Saathh ||6||
Says Nanak, realize and know Him, who is always with you. ||6||

ਤਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਜਿਹ ਤੋ ਕਉ ਦੀਓ ਤਾਂ ਸਿਉ ਨੇਹੁ ਨ ਕੀਨ ॥
Than Dhhan Jih Tho Ko Dheeou Thaan Sio Naehu N Keen ||
He has given you your body and wealth, but you are not in love with Him.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਰ ਬਾਵਰੇ ਅਬ ਕਿਉ ਡੋਲਤ ਦੀਨ ॥੭॥
Kahu Naanak Nar Baavarae Ab Kio Ddolath Dheen ||7||
Says Nanak, you are insane! Why do you now shake and tremble so helplessly? ||7||

ਤਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਸੰਪੈ ਸੁਖ ਦੀਓ ਅਰੁ ਜਿਹ ਨੀਕੇ ਧਾਮ ॥
Than Dhhan Sanpai Sukh Dheeou Ar Jih Neekae Dhhaam ||
He has given you your body, wealth, property, peace and beautiful mansions.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨੁ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਕਾਹਿ ਨ ਰਾਮੁ ॥੮॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Simarath Kaahi N Raam ||8||
Says Nanak, listen, mind: why don’t you remember the Lord in meditation? ||8||

ਸਭ ਸੁਖ ਦਾਤਾ ਰਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਦੂਸਰ ਨਾਹਿਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
Sabh Sukh Dhaathaa Raam Hai Dhoosar Naahin Koe ||
The Lord is the Giver of all peace and comfort. There is no other at all.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਤਿਹ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਗਤਿ ਹੋਇ ॥੯॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Thih Simarath Gath Hoe ||9||
Says Nanak, listen, mind: meditating in remembrance on Him, salvation is attained. ||9||………

ਘਟ ਘਟ ਮੈ ਹਰਿ ਜੂ ਬਸੈ ਸੰਤਨ ਕਹਿਓ ਪੁਕਾਰਿ ॥
Ghatt Ghatt Mai Har Joo Basai Santhan Kehiou Pukaar ||
The Dear Lord abides in each and every heart; the Saints proclaim this as true.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਹ ਭਜੁ ਮਨਾ ਭਉ ਨਿਧਿ ਉਤਰਹਿ ਪਾਰਿ ॥੧੨॥
Kahu Naanak Thih Bhaj Manaa Bho Nidhh Outharehi Paar ||12||
Says Nanak, meditate and vibrate upon Him, and you shall cross over the terrifying world-ocean. ||12||

ਸੁਖੁ ਦੁਖੁ ਜਿਹ ਪਰਸੈ ਨਹੀ ਲੋਭੁ ਮੋਹੁ ਅਭਿਮਾਨੁ ॥
Sukh Dhukh Jih Parasai Nehee Lobh Mohu Abhimaan ||
One who is not touched by pleasure or pain, greed, emotional attachment and egotistical pride

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨੁ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਸੋ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਭਗਵਾਨ ॥੧੩॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa So Moorath Bhagavaan ||13||

• says Nanak, listen, mind: he is the very image of God. ||13||………….

ਜਿਹਿ ਮਾਇਆ ਮਮਤਾ ਤਜੀ ਸਭ ਤੇ ਭਇਓ ਉਦਾਸੁ ॥
Jihi Maaeiaa Mamathaa Thajee Sabh Thae Bhaeiou Oudhaas ||
One who renounces Maya and possessiveness and is detached from everything

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨੁ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਤਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਨਿਵਾਸੁ ॥੧੮॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Thih Ghatt Breham Nivaas ||18||

• says Nanak, listen, mind: God abides in his heart. ||18||

ਜਿਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਹਉਮੈ ਤਜੀ ਕਰਤਾ ਰਾਮੁ ਪਛਾਨਿ ॥
Jihi Praanee Houmai Thajee Karathaa Raam Pashhaan ||
That mortal, who forsakes egotism, and realizes the Creator Lor

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਵਹੁ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨਰੁ ਇਹ ਮਨ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੧੯॥
Kahu Naanak Vahu Mukath Nar Eih Man Saachee Maan ||19||

• says Nanak, that person is liberated; O mind, know this as true. ||19||

ਭੈ ਨਾਸਨ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਹਰਨ ਕਲਿ ਮੈ ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
Bhai Naasan Dhuramath Haran Kal Mai Har Ko Naam ||
In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Name of the Lord is the Destroyer of fear, the Eradicator of evil-mindedness.

ਨਿਸਿ ਦਿਨੁ ਜੋ ਨਾਨਕ ਭਜੈ ਸਫਲ ਹੋਹਿ ਤਿਹ ਕਾਮ ॥੨੦॥
Nis Dhin Jo Naanak Bhajai Safal Hohi Thih Kaam ||20||
Night and day, O Nanak, whoever vibrates and meditates on the Lord’s Name, sees all of his works brought to fruition. ||20||

ਜਿਹਬਾ ਗੁਨ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਭਜਹੁ ਕਰਨ ਸੁਨਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
Jihabaa Gun Gobindh Bhajahu Karan Sunahu Har Naam ||
Vibrate with your tongue the Glorious Praises of the Lord of the Universe; with your ears, hear the Lord’s Name.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਪਰਹਿ ਨ ਜਮ ਕੈ ਧਾਮ ॥੨੧॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Parehi N Jam Kai Dhhaam ||21||
Says Nanak, listen, man: you shall not have to go to the house of Death. ||21||

ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਮਮਤਾ ਤਜੈ ਲੋਭ ਮੋਹ ਅਹੰਕਾਰ ॥
Jo Praanee Mamathaa Thajai Lobh Moh Ahankaar ||
That mortal who renounces possessiveness, greed, emotional attachment and egotism

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਆਪਨ ਤਰੈ ਅਉਰਨ ਲੇਤ ਉਧਾਰ ॥੨੨॥
Kahu Naanak Aapan Tharai Aouran Laeth Oudhhaar ||22||

• says Nanak, he himself is saved, and he saves many others as well. ||22||

ਜਿਉ ਸੁਪਨਾ ਅਰੁ ਪੇਖਨਾ ਐਸੇ ਜਗ ਕਉ ਜਾਨਿ ॥
Jio Supanaa Ar Paekhanaa Aisae Jag Ko Jaan ||
Like a dream and a show, so is this world, you must kno

ਇਨ ਮੈ ਕਛੁ ਸਾਚੋ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਭਗਵਾਨ ॥੨੩॥
Ein Mai Kashh Saacho Nehee Naanak Bin Bhagavaan ||23||
None of this is true, O Nanak, without God. ||23||

ਨਿਸਿ ਦਿਨੁ ਮਾਇਆ ਕਾਰਨੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਡੋਲਤ ਨੀਤ ॥
is Dhin Maaeiaa Kaaranae Praanee Ddolath Neeth ||
Night and day, for the sake of Maya, the mortal wanders constantly.

ਕੋਟਨ ਮੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਕੋਊ ਨਾਰਾਇਨੁ ਜਿਹ ਚੀਤਿ ॥੨੪॥
Kottan Mai Naanak Kooo Naaraaein Jih Cheeth ||24||
Among millions, O Nanak, there is scarcely anyone, who keeps the Lord in his consciousness. ||24||

ਜੈਸੇ ਜਲ ਤੇ ਬੁਦਬੁਦਾ ਉਪਜੈ ਬਿਨਸੈ ਨੀਤ ॥
Jaisae Jal Thae Budhabudhaa Oupajai Binasai Neeth ||
As the bubbles in the water well up and disappear again,

ਜਗ ਰਚਨਾ ਤੈਸੇ ਰਚੀ ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਮੀਤ ॥੨੫॥
Jag Rachanaa Thaisae Rachee Kahu Naanak Sun Meeth ||25||
So is the universe created; says Nanak, listen, O my friend! ||25||

ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਚੇਤਈ ਮਦਿ ਮਾਇਆ ਕੈ ਅੰਧੁ ॥
Praanee Kashhoo N Chaethee Madh Maaeiaa Kai Andhh ||
The mortal does not remember the Lord, even for a moment; he is blinded by the wine of Maya.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਪਰਤ ਤਾਹਿ ਜਮ ਫੰਧ ॥੨੬॥
Kahu Naanak Bin Har Bhajan Parath Thaahi Jam Fandhh ||26||
Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, he is caught by the noose of Death. ||26||

ਜਉ ਸੁਖ ਕਉ ਚਾਹੈ ਸਦਾ ਸਰਨਿ ਰਾਮ ਕੀ ਲੇਹ ॥
Jo Sukh Ko Chaahai Sadhaa Saran Raam Kee Laeh ||
If you yearn for eternal peace, then seek the Sanctuary of the Lord.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਦੁਰਲਭ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਦੇਹ ॥੨੭॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Dhuralabh Maanukh Dhaeh ||27||
Says Nanak, listen, mind: this human body is difficult to obtain. ||27||

ਮਾਇਆ ਕਾਰਨਿ ਧਾਵਹੀ ਮੂਰਖ ਲੋਗ ਅਜਾਨ ॥
Maaeiaa Kaaran Dhhaavehee Moorakh Log Ajaan ||
For the sake of Maya, the fools and ignorant people run all around.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਸਿਰਾਨ ॥੨੮॥
Kahu Naanak Bin Har Bhajan Birathhaa Janam Siraan ||28||
Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, life passes away uselessly. ||28||

ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਨਿਸਿ ਦਿਨੁ ਭਜੈ ਰੂਪ ਰਾਮ ਤਿਹ ਜਾਨੁ ॥
Jo Praanee Nis Dhin Bhajai Roop Raam Thih Jaan ||
That mortal who meditates and vibrates upon the Lord night and day – know him to be the embodiment of the Lord.

ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੨੯॥
Har Jan Har Anthar Nehee Naanak Saachee Maan ||29||
There is no difference between the Lord and the humble servant of the Lord; O Nanak, know this as true. ||29||

ਮਨੁ ਮਾਇਆ ਮੈ ਫਧਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਬਿਸਰਿਓ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
Man Maaeiaa Mai Fadhh Rehiou Bisariou Gobindh Naam ||
The mortal is entangled in Maya; he has forgotten the Name of the Lord of the Universe.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਜੀਵਨ ਕਉਨੇ ਕਾਮ ॥੩੦॥
Kahu Naanak Bin Har Bhajan Jeevan Kounae Kaam ||30||
Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, what is the use of this human life? ||30||

ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਰਾਮੁ ਨ ਚੇਤਈ ਮਦਿ ਮਾਇਆ ਕੈ ਅੰਧੁ ॥
Praanee Raam N Chaethee Madh Maaeiaa Kai Andhh ||
The mortal does not think of the Lord; he is blinded by the wine of Maya.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਬਿਨੁ ਪਰਤ ਤਾਹਿ ਜਮ ਫੰਧ ॥੩੧॥
Kahu Naanak Har Bhajan Bin Parath Thaahi Jam Fandhh ||31||
Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, he is caught in the noose of Death. ||31||

ਸੁਖ ਮੈ ਬਹੁ ਸੰਗੀ ਭਏ ਦੁਖ ਮੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
Sukh Mai Bahu Sangee Bheae Dhukh Mai Sang N Koe ||
In good times, there are many companions around, but in bad times, there is no one at all.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜੁ ਮਨਾ ਅੰਤਿ ਸਹਾਈ ਹੋਇ ॥੩੨॥
Kahu Naanak Har Bhaj Manaa Anth Sehaaee Hoe ||32||
Says Nanak, vibrate, and meditate on the Lord; He shall be your only Help and Support in the end. ||32||

ਜਨਮ ਜਨਮ ਭਰਮਤ ਫਿਰਿਓ ਮਿਟਿਓ ਨ ਜਮ ਕੋ ਤ੍ਰਾਸੁ ॥
Janam Janam Bharamath Firiou Mittiou N Jam Ko Thraas ||
Mortals wander lost and confused through countless lifetimes; their fear of death is never removed.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜੁ ਮਨਾ ਨਿਰਭੈ ਪਾਵਹਿ ਬਾਸੁ ॥੩੩॥
Kahu Naanak Har Bhaj Manaa Nirabhai Paavehi Baas ||33||
Says Nanak, vibrate and meditate on the Lord, and you shall dwell in the Fearless Lord. ||33||

ਜਤਨ ਬਹੁਤੁ ਮੈ ਕਰਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਮਿਟਿਓ ਨ ਮਨ ਕੋ ਮਾਨੁ ॥
Jathan Bahuth Mai Kar Rehiou Mittiou N Man Ko Maan ||
I have tried so many things, but the pride of my mind has not been dispelled.

ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਸਿਉ ਨਾਨਕ ਫਧਿਓ ਰਾਖਿ ਲੇਹੁ ਭਗਵਾਨ ॥੩੪॥
Dhuramath Sio Naanak Fadhhiou Raakh Laehu Bhagavaan ||34||
I am engrossed in evil-mindedness, Nanak. O God, please save me! ||34||

ਬਾਲ ਜੁਆਨੀ ਅਰੁ ਬਿਰਧਿ ਫੁਨਿ ਤੀਨਿ ਅਵਸਥਾ ਜਾਨਿ ॥
Baal Juaanee Ar Biradhh Fun Theen Avasathhaa Jaan ||
Childhood, youth and old age – know these as the three stages of life.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਨ ਬਿਨੁ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੩੫॥
Kahu Naanak Har Bhajan Bin Birathhaa Sabh Hee Maan ||35||
Says Nanak, without meditating on the Lord, everything is useless; you must appreciate this. ||35||……………..

ਜਤਨ ਬਹੁਤ ਸੁਖ ਕੇ ਕੀਏ ਦੁਖ ਕੋ ਕੀਓ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
Jathan Bahuth Sukh Kae Keeeae Dhukh Ko Keeou N Koe ||
People make all sorts of efforts to find peace and pleasure, but no one tries to earn pain.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੁਨਿ ਰੇ ਮਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਭਾਵੈ ਸੋ ਹੋਇ ॥੩੯॥
Kahu Naanak Sun Rae Manaa Har Bhaavai So Hoe ||39||
Says Nanak, listen, mind: whatever pleases God comes to pass. ||39||

ਜਗਤੁ ਭਿਖਾਰੀ ਫਿਰਤੁ ਹੈ ਸਭ ਕੋ ਦਾਤਾ ਰਾਮੁ ॥
Jagath Bhikhaaree Firath Hai Sabh Ko Dhaathaa Raam ||
The world wanders around begging, but the Lord is the Giver of all.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਮਨ ਸਿਮਰੁ ਤਿਹ ਪੂਰਨ ਹੋਵਹਿ ਕਾਮ ॥੪੦॥
Kahu Naanak Man Simar Thih Pooran Hovehi Kaam ||40||
Says Nanak, meditate in remembrance on Him, and all your works will be successful. ||40||

ਝੂਠੈ ਮਾਨੁ ਕਹਾ ਕਰੈ ਜਗੁ ਸੁਪਨੇ ਜਿਉ ਜਾਨੁ ॥
Jhoothai Maan Kehaa Karai Jag Supanae Jio Jaan ||
Why do you take such false pride in yourself? You must know that the world is just a dream.

ਇਨ ਮੈ ਕਛੁ ਤੇਰੋ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਹਿਓ ਬਖਾਨਿ ॥੪੧॥
Ein Mai Kashh Thaero Nehee Naanak Kehiou Bakhaan ||41||
None of this is yours; Nanak proclaims this truth. ||41||

ਗਰਬੁ ਕਰਤੁ ਹੈ ਦੇਹ ਕੋ ਬਿਨਸੈ ਛਿਨ ਮੈ ਮੀਤ ॥
Garab Karath Hai Dhaeh Ko Binasai Shhin Mai Meeth ||
You are so proud of your body; it shall perish in an instant, my friend.

ਜਿਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਕਹਿਓ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਹਿ ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤਿ ॥੪੨॥
Jihi Praanee Har Jas Kehiou Naanak Thihi Jag Jeeth ||42||
That mortal who chants the Praises of the Lord, O Nanak, conquers the world. ||42||

ਜਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਰਾਮ ਕੋ ਸੋ ਨਰੁ ਮੁਕਤਾ ਜਾਨੁ ॥
Jih Ghatt Simaran Raam Ko So Nar Mukathaa Jaan ||
That person, who meditates in remembrance on the Lord in his heart, is liberated – know this well.

ਤਿਹਿ ਨਰ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੪੩॥
Thihi Nar Har Anthar Nehee Naanak Saachee Maan ||43||
There is no difference between that person and the Lord: O Nanak, accept this as the Truth. ||43||

ਏਕ ਭਗਤਿ ਭਗਵਾਨ ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਕੈ ਨਾਹਿ ਮਨਿ ॥
Eaek Bhagath Bhagavaan Jih Praanee Kai Naahi Man ||
That person, who does not feel devotion to God in his mind

ਜੈਸੇ ਸੂਕਰ ਸੁਆਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਮਾਨੋ ਤਾਹਿ ਤਨੁ ॥੪੪॥
Jaisae Sookar Suaan Naanak Maano Thaahi Than ||44||

• O Nanak, know that his body is like that of a pig, or a dog. ||44||

ਸੁਆਮੀ ਕੋ ਗ੍ਰਿਹੁ ਜਿਉ ਸਦਾ ਸੁਆਨ ਤਜਤ ਨਹੀ ਨਿਤ ॥
Suaamee Ko Grihu Jio Sadhaa Suaan Thajath Nehee Nith ||
A dog never abandons the home of his master.

ਨਾਨਕ ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਹਰਿ ਭਜਉ ਇਕ ਮਨਿ ਹੁਇ ਇਕ ਚਿਤਿ ॥੪੫॥
Naanak Eih Bidhh Har Bhajo Eik Man Hue Eik Chith ||45||
O Nanak, in just the same way, vibrate, and meditate on the Lord, single-mindedly, with one-pointed consciousness. ||45||

ਤੀਰਥ ਬਰਤ ਅਰੁ ਦਾਨ ਕਰਿ ਮਨ ਮੈ ਧਰੈ ਗੁਮਾਨੁ ॥
Theerathh Barath Ar Dhaan Kar Man Mai Dhharai Gumaan ||
Those who make pilgrimages to sacred shrines, observe ritualistic fasts and make donations to charity while still taking pride in their minds

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਿਹਫਲ ਜਾਤ ਤਿਹ ਜਿਉ ਕੁੰਚਰ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ॥੪੬॥
Naanak Nihafal Jaath Thih Jio Kunchar Eisanaan ||46||

• O Nanak, their actions are useless, like the elephant, who takes a bath, and then rolls in the dust. ||46||

ਸਿਰੁ ਕੰਪਿਓ ਪਗ ਡਗਮਗੇ ਨੈਨ ਜੋਤਿ ਤੇ ਹੀਨ ॥
Sir Kanpiou Pag Ddagamagae Nain Joth Thae Heen ||
The head shakes, the feet stagger, and the eyes become dull and weak.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਭਈ ਤਊ ਨ ਹਰਿ ਰਸਿ ਲੀਨ ॥੪੭॥
Kahu Naanak Eih Bidhh Bhee Thoo N Har Ras Leen ||47||
Says Nanak, this is your condition. And even now, you have not savored the sublime essence of the Lord. ||47||

ਨਿਜ ਕਰਿ ਦੇਖਿਓ ਜਗਤੁ ਮੈ ਕੋ ਕਾਹੂ ਕੋ ਨਾਹਿ ॥
Nij Kar Dhaekhiou Jagath Mai Ko Kaahoo Ko Naahi ||
I had looked upon the world as my own, but no one belongs to anyone else.

ਨਾਨਕ ਥਿਰੁ ਹਰਿ ਭਗਤਿ ਹੈ ਤਿਹ ਰਾਖੋ ਮਨ ਮਾਹਿ ॥੪੮॥
Naanak Thhir Har Bhagath Hai Thih Raakho Man Maahi ||48||
O Nanak, only devotional worship of the Lord is permanent; enshrine this in your mind. ||48||……………………..

ਜੋ ਉਪਜਿਓ ਸੋ ਬਿਨਸਿ ਹੈ ਪਰੋ ਆਜੁ ਕੈ ਕਾਲਿ ॥
Jo Oupajiou So Binas Hai Paro Aaj Kai Kaal ||
Whatever has been created shall be destroyed; everyone shall perish, today or tomorrow.

ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਇ ਲੇ ਛਾਡਿ ਸਗਲ ਜੰਜਾਲ ॥੫੨॥
Naanak Har Gun Gaae Lae Shhaadd Sagal Janjaal ||52||
O Nanak, sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, and give up all other entanglements. ||52||

It boils down to as advised by Guru Nanak Dev Ji;-

• ਤੇਰੇ ਨਾਮ ਅਨੇਕਾ ਰੂਪ ਅਨੰਤਾ ਕਹਣੁ ਨ ਜਾਹੀ ਤੇਰੇ ਗੁਣ ਕੇਤੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 358-14).
  Thaerae Naam Anaekaa Roop Ananthaa Kehan N Jaahee Thaerae Gun Kaethae ||1|| Rehaao ||
  Your Names are so many, and Your Forms are endless. No one can tell how may Glorious Virtues You have. ||1||Pause||

ਸਰਗੁਨ ਨਿਰਗੁਨ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰ ਸੁੰਨ ਸਮਾਧੀ ਆਪਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 290-16).
Saragun Niragun Nirankaar Sunn Samaadhhee Aap ||
He possesses all qualities; He transcends all qualities; He is the Formless Lord. He Himself is in Primal Samaadhi.

ਆਪਨ ਕੀਆ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਆਪੇ ਹੀ ਫਿਰਿ ਜਾਪਿ ॥੧॥
Aapan Keeaa Naanakaa Aapae Hee Fir Jaap ||1||
Through His Creation, O Nanak, He meditates on Himself. ||1||

• ਤਿਆਗਿ ਸਗਲ ਸਿਆਨਪਾ ਭਜੁ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ॥ (Raag Asa M.5, GGS. 405-2).
  Thiaag Sagal Siaanapaa Bhaj Paarabreham Nirankaar ||
  Renounce all your cleverness and remember the Supreme, Formless Lord God.

ਏਕ ਸਾਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਸਗਲ ਦੀਸੈ ਛਾਰੁ ॥੧॥
Eaek Saachae Naam Baajhahu Sagal Dheesai Shhaar ||1||
Without the One True Name, everything appears as dust. ||1||

ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਸਦ ਸੰਗਿ ॥
So Prabh Jaaneeai Sadh Sang ||
Know that God is always with you.

ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦੀ ਬੂਝੀਐ ਏਕ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਰੰਗਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Gur Prasaadhee Boojheeai Eaek Har Kai Rang ||1|| Rehaao ||
By Guru’s Grace, one understands, and is imbued with the Love of the One Lord. ||1||Pause||

ਸਰਣਿ ਸਮਰਥ ਏਕ ਕੇਰੀ ਦੂਜਾ ਨਾਹੀ ਠਾਉ ॥
Saran Samarathh Eaek Kaeree Dhoojaa Naahee Thaao ||
Seek the Shelter of the One All-powerful Lord; there is no other place of rest.

ਮਹਾ ਭਉਜਲੁ ਲੰਘੀਐ ਸਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਉ ॥੨॥
Mehaa Bhoujal Langheeai Sadhaa Har Gun Gaao ||2||
The vast and terrifying world-ocean is crossed over, singing continually the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||2||

ਜਨਮ ਮਰਣੁ ਨਿਵਾਰੀਐ ਦੁਖੁ ਨ ਜਮ ਪੁਰਿ ਹੋਇ ॥
Janam Maran Nivaareeai Dhukh N Jam Pur Hoe ||
Birth and death are overcome, and one does not have to suffer in the City of Death.

ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਸੋਈ ਪਾਏ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸੋਇ ॥੩॥
Naam Nidhhaan Soee Paaeae Kirapaa Karae Prabh Soe ||3||
He alone obtains the treasure of the Naam, the Name of the Lord, unto whom God shows His Mercy. ||3|

ਏਕ ਟੇਕ ਅਧਾਰੁ ਏਕੋ ਏਕ ਕਾ ਮਨਿ ਜੋਰੁ ॥
Eaek Ttaek Adhhaar Eaeko Eaek Kaa Man Jor ||
The One Lord is my Anchor and Support; the One Lord alone is the power of my mind.

ਨਾਨਕ ਜਪੀਐ ਮਿਲਿ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਹਰਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਹੋਰੁ ॥੪॥੧॥੧੩੬॥
Naanak Japeeai Mil Saadhhasangath Har Bin Avar N Hor ||4||1||136||
O Nanak, joining the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, meditate on Him; without the Lord, there is no other at all. ||4||1||136||

ਜੀਉ ਮਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਪ੍ਰਾਨ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੇ ਦੀਏ ਸਭਿ ਰਸ ਭੋਗ ॥
Jeeo Man Than Praan Prabh Kae Dheeeae Sabh Ras Bhog ||
The soul, the mind, the body and the breath of life belong to God. He has given all tastes and pleasures.

ਦੀਨ ਬੰਧਪ ਜੀਅ ਦਾਤਾ ਸਰਣਿ ਰਾਖਣ ਜੋਗੁ ॥੧॥
Dheen Bandhhap Jeea Dhaathaa Saran Raakhan Jog ||1||
He is the Friend of the poor, the Giver of life, the Protector of those who seek His Sanctuary. ||1||

ਮੇਰੇ ਮਨ ਧਿਆਇ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਉ ॥
Maerae Man Dhhiaae Har Har Naao ||
O my mind, meditate on the Name of the Lord, Har, Har.

ਹਲਤਿ ਪਲਤਿ ਸਹਾਇ ਸੰਗੇ ਏਕ ਸਿਉ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਉ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Halath Palath Sehaae Sangae Eaek Sio Liv Laao ||1|| Rehaao ||
Here and hereafter, He is our Helper and Companion; embrace love and affection for the One Lord. ||1||Pause||

ਬੇਦ ਸਾਸਤ੍ਰ ਜਨ ਧਿਆਵਹਿ ਤਰਣ ਕਉ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥
Baedh Saasathr Jan Dhhiaavehi Tharan Ko Sansaar ||
They meditate on the Vedas and the Shaastras, to swim across the world-ocean.

ਕਰਮ ਧਰਮ ਅਨੇਕ ਕਿਰਿਆ ਸਭ ਊਪਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਅਚਾਰੁ ॥੨॥
Karam Dhharam Anaek Kiriaa Sabh Oopar Naam Achaar ||2||
The many religious rituals, good deeds of karma and Dharmic worship – above all of these is the Naam, the Name of the Lord. ||2||

ਕਾਮੁ ਕ੍ਰੋਧੁ ਅਹੰਕਾਰੁ ਬਿਨਸੈ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਦੇਵ ॥
Kaam Krodhh Ahankaar Binasai Milai Sathigur Dhaev ||
Sexual desire, anger, and egotism depart, meeting with the Divine True Guru.

ਨਾਮੁ ਦ੍ਰਿੜੁ ਕਰਿ ਭਗਤਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੀ ਭਲੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੀ ਸੇਵ ॥੩॥
Naam Dhrirr Kar Bhagath Har Kee Bhalee Prabh Kee Saev ||3||
Implant the Naam within, perform devotional worship to the Lord and serve God – this is good. ||3||

ਚਰਣ ਸਰਣ ਦਇਆਲ ਤੇਰੀ ਤੂੰ ਨਿਮਾਣੇ ਮਾਣੁ ॥
Charan Saran Dhaeiaal Thaeree Thoon Nimaanae Maan ||
I seek the Sanctuary of Your Feet, O Merciful Lord; You are the Honor of the dishonored.

ਜੀਅ ਪ੍ਰਾਣ ਅਧਾਰੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਾ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਤਾਣੁ ॥੪॥੨॥੧੩੭॥
Jeea Praan Adhhaar Thaeraa Naanak Kaa Prabh Thaan ||4||2||137||
You are the Support of my soul, my breath of life; O God, You are Nanak’s strength. ||4||2||137||

ਡੋਲਿ ਡੋਲਿ ਮਹਾ ਦੁਖੁ ਪਾਇਆ ਬਿਨਾ ਸਾਧੂ ਸੰਗ ॥
Ddol Ddol Mehaa Dhukh Paaeiaa Binaa Saadhhoo Sang ||
He wavers and falters, and suffers such great pain, without the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy.

ਖਾਟਿ ਲਾਭੁ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਇਕ ਰੰਗ ॥੧॥
Khaatt Laabh Gobindh Har Ras Paarabreham Eik Rang ||1||
The profit of the sublime essence of the Lord of the Universe is obtained, by the Love of the One Supreme Lord God. ||1||

ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪੀਐ ਨੀਤਿ ॥
Har Ko Naam Japeeai Neeth ||
Chant continually the Name of the Lord.

ਸਾਸਿ ਸਾਸਿ ਧਿਆਇ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਅਵਰ ਪਰੀਤਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Saas Saas Dhhiaae So Prabh Thiaag Avar Pareeth ||1|| Rehaao ||
With each and every breath, meditate on God, and renounce other love. ||1||Pause||

ਕਰਣ ਕਾਰਣ ਸਮਰਥ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜੀਅ ਦਾਤਾ ਆਪਿ ॥
Karan Kaaran Samarathh So Prabh Jeea Dhaathaa Aap ||
God is the Doer, the All-powerful Cause of causes; He Himself is the Giver of life.

ਤਿਆਗਿ ਸਗਲ ਸਿਆਣਪਾ ਆਠ ਪਹਰ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜਾਪਿ ॥੨॥
Thiaag Sagal Siaanapaa Aath Pehar Prabh Jaap ||2||
So renounce all your cleverness, and meditate on God, twenty-four hours a day. ||2||

ਮੀਤੁ ਸਖਾ ਸਹਾਇ ਸੰਗੀ ਊਚ ਅਗਮ ਅਪਾਰੁ ॥
Meeth Sakhaa Sehaae Sangee Ooch Agam Apaar ||
He is our best friend and companion, our help and support; He is lofty, inaccessible and infinite.

ਚਰਣ ਕਮਲ ਬਸਾਇ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਜੀਅ ਕੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੩॥
Charan Kamal Basaae Hiradhai Jeea Ko Aadhhaar ||3||
Enshrine His Lotus Feet within your heart; He is the Support of the soul. ||3||

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗੁਣ ਤੇਰਾ ਜਸੁ ਗਾਉ ॥
Kar Kirapaa Prabh Paarabreham Gun Thaeraa Jas Gaao ||
Show Your Mercy, O Supreme Lord God, that I may sing Your Glorious Praises.

ਸਰਬ ਸੂਖ ਵਡੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਜਪਿ ਜੀਵੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਨਾਉ ॥੪॥੩॥੧੩੮॥
Sarab Sookh Vaddee Vaddiaaee Jap Jeevai Naanak Naao ||4||3||138||
Total peace, and the greatest greatness, O Nanak, are obtained by living to chant the Name of the Lord. ||4||3||138||

ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰਉ ਕਰਾਵਹੁ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਪੇਖਤ ਸਾਧੂ ਸੰਗਿ ॥
Oudham Karo Karaavahu Thaakur Paekhath Saadhhoo Sang ||
I make the effort, as You cause me to do, my Lord and Master, to behold You in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy.

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਚਰਾਵਹੁ ਰੰਗਨਿ ਆਪੇ ਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਰੰਗਿ ॥੧॥
Har Har Naam Charaavahu Rangan Aapae Hee Prabh Rang ||1||
I am imbued with the color of the Love of the Lord, Har, Har; God Himself has colored me in His Love. ||1||

ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮਾ ਜਾਪਿ ॥
Man Mehi Raam Naamaa Jaap ||
I chant the Lord’s Name within my mind.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਵਸਹੁ ਮੇਰੈ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਹੋਇ ਸਹਾਈ ਆਪਿ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Kar Kirapaa Vasahu Maerai Hiradhai Hoe Sehaaee Aap ||1|| Rehaao ||
Bestow Your Mercy, and dwell within my heart; please, become my Helper. ||1||Pause||

ਸੁਣਿ ਸੁਣਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਤੁਮਾਰਾ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਪੇਖਨ ਕਾ ਚਾਉ ॥
Sun Sun Naam Thumaaraa Preetham Prabh Paekhan Kaa Chaao ||
Listening continually to Your Name, O Beloved God, I yearn to behold You.

ਦਇਆ ਕਰਹੁ ਕਿਰਮ ਅਪੁਨੇ ਕਉ ਇਹੈ ਮਨੋਰਥੁ ਸੁਆਉ ॥੨॥
Dhaeiaa Karahu Kiram Apunae Ko Eihai Manorathh Suaao ||2||
Please, be kind to me – I am just a worm. This is my object and purpose. ||2||

ਤਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਤੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਹਮਰੈ ਵਸਿ ਕਿਛੁ ਨਾਹਿ ॥
Than Dhhan Thaeraa Thoon Prabh Maeraa Hamarai Vas Kishh Naahi ||
My body and wealth are Yours; You are my God – nothing is in my power.

ਜਿਉ ਜਿਉ ਰਾਖਹਿ ਤਿਉ ਤਿਉ ਰਹਣਾ ਤੇਰਾ ਦੀਆ ਖਾਹਿ ॥੩॥
Jio Jio Raakhehi Thio Thio Rehanaa Thaeraa Dheeaa Khaahi ||3||
As You keep me, so do I live; I eat what You give me. ||3||

ਜਨਮ ਜਨਮ ਕੇ ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਕਾਟੈ ਮਜਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਧੂਰਿ ॥
Janam Janam Kae Kilavikh Kaattai Majan Har Jan Dhhoor ||
The sins of countless incarnations are washed away, by bathing in the dust of the Lord’s humble servants.

ਭਾਇ ਭਗਤਿ ਭਰਮ ਭਉ ਨਾਸੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਦਾ ਹਜੂਰਿ ॥੪॥੪॥੧੩੯॥
Bhaae Bhagath Bharam Bho Naasai Har Naanak Sadhaa Hajoor ||4||4||139||
By loving devotional worship, doubt and fear depart; O Nanak, the Lord is Ever-present. ||4||4||139||

The need is to have full Bharosa of the like S. Rabinder Singh Ji:-

• ਤੇਰੈ ਭਰੋਸੈ ਪਿਆਰੇ ਮੈ ਲਾਡ ਲਡਾਇਆ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 5, GGS. 51-17).
  Thaerai Bharosai Piaarae Mai Laadd Laddaaeiaa ||
  Relying on Your Mercy, Dear Lord, I have indulged in sensual pleasures.

ਭੂਲਹਿ ਚੂਕਹਿ ਬਾਰਿਕ ਤੂੰ ਹਰਿ ਪਿਤਾ ਮਾਇਆ ॥੧॥
Bhoolehi Chookehi Baarik Thoon Har Pithaa Maaeiaa ||1||
Like a foolish child, I have made mistakes. O Lord, You are my Father and Mother. ||1||

ਸੁਹੇਲਾ ਕਹਨੁ ਕਹਾਵਨੁ ॥
Suhaelaa Kehan Kehaavan ||
It is easy to speak and talk,

ਤੇਰਾ ਬਿਖਮੁ ਭਾਵਨੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Thaeraa Bikham Bhaavan ||1|| Rehaao ||
But it is difficult to accept Your Will. ||1||Pause||

ਹਉ ਮਾਣੁ ਤਾਣੁ ਕਰਉ ਤੇਰਾ ਹਉ ਜਾਨਉ ਆਪਾ ॥
Ho Maan Thaan Karo Thaeraa Ho Jaano Aapaa ||
I stand tall; You are my Strength. I know that You are mine.

ਸਭ ਹੀ ਮਧਿ ਸਭਹਿ ਤੇ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਬੇਮੁਹਤਾਜ ਬਾਪਾ ॥੨॥
Sabh Hee Madhh Sabhehi Thae Baahar Baemuhathaaj Baapaa ||2||
Inside of all, and outside of all, You are our Self-sufficient Father. ||2||

ਪਿਤਾ ਹਉ ਜਾਨਉ ਨਾਹੀ ਤੇਰੀ ਕਵਨ ਜੁਗਤਾ ॥
Pithaa Ho Jaano Naahee Thaeree Kavan Jugathaa ||
O Father, I do not know-how can I know Your Way?

I think we can have glimpse of God even though we may not know God fully as per Guru Nanak Sahib’s messages given below:-

• 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.
• ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਈਐ ਤਾ ਸਹੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਅਉਰੁ ਕੈਸੀ ਚਤੁਰਾਈ ॥ (Raag Tilang M. 1, GGS. 722-13).
  Give up your selfhood, and so obtain your Husband Lord; what other clever tricks are of any use?
  On “ਸਹੁ ਪਾਈਐ” – strength of an individual is replaced by Waheguru’s strength. (Taan bhu keha karrha jeo?).
• ਮਤੁ ਜਾਣ ਸਹਿ ਗਲੀ ਪਾਇਆ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 24-2).
  Math Jaan Sehi Galee Paaeiaa ||
  Do not think that your Husband Lord can be obtained by mere words.

ਮਾਲ ਕੈ ਮਾਣੈ ਰੂਪ ਕੀ ਸੋਭਾ ਇਤੁ ਬਿਧੀ ਜਨਮੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Maal Kai Maanai Roop Kee Sobhaa Eith Bidhhee Janam Gavaaeiaa ||1|| Rehaao ||
You are wasting this life in the pride of wealth and the splendor of beauty. ||1||Pause||

However,
ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਠਾਕਿ ਰਹਾਈਆ ॥੩॥

• ਸੁਣਿ ਵਡਾ ਆਖੈ ਸਭ ਕੋਈ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS, 348-19).
  Sun Vaddaa Aakhai Sabh Koee ||
  Hearing, everyone calls You Great,

ਕੇਵਡੁ ਵਡਾ ਡੀਠਾ ਹੋਈ ॥
Kaevadd Vaddaa Ddeethaa Hoee ||
But only one who has seen You, knows just how Great You are.

ਕੀਮਤਿ ਪਾਇ ਨ ਕਹਿਆ ਜਾਇ ॥
Keemath Paae N Kehiaa Jaae ||
No one can measure Your Worth, or describe You.

ਕਹਣੈ ਵਾਲੇ ਤੇਰੇ ਰਹੇ ਸਮਾਇ ॥੧॥
Kehanai Vaalae Thaerae Rehae Samaae ||1||
Those who describe You, remain absorbed in You. ||1||

ਵਡੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਸਾਹਿਬਾ ਗਹਿਰ ਗੰਭੀਰਾ ਗੁਣੀ ਗਹੀਰਾ ॥
Vaddae Maerae Saahibaa Gehir Ganbheeraa Gunee Geheeraa ||
O my Great Lord and Master of Unfathomable Depth, You are the Ocean of Excellence.

ਕੋਈ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਤੇਰਾ ਕੇਤਾ ਕੇਵਡੁ ਚੀਰਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Koee N Jaanai Thaeraa Kaethaa Kaevadd Cheeraa ||1|| Rehaao ||
No one knows the greatness of Your expanse. ||1||Pause||

ਸਭਿ ਸੁਰਤੀ ਮਿਲਿ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਕਮਾਈ ॥
Sabh Surathee Mil Surath Kamaaee ||
All the contemplators met together and practiced contemplation;

ਸਭ ਕੀਮਤਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਕੀਮਤਿ ਪਾਈ ॥
Sabh Keemath Mil Keemath Paaee ||
All the appraisers met together and tried to appraise You.

ਗਿਆਨੀ ਧਿਆਨੀ ਗੁਰ ਗੁਰ ਹਾਈ ॥
Giaanee Dhhiaanee Gur Gur Haaee ||
The theologians, the meditators and the teachers of teachers

ਕਹਣੁ ਨ ਜਾਈ ਤੇਰੀ ਤਿਲੁ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥੨॥
Kehan N Jaaee Thaeree Thil Vaddiaaee ||2||
Could not express even an iota of Your Greatness. ||2||

ਸਭਿ ਸਤ ਸਭਿ ਤਪ ਸਭਿ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ॥
Sabh Sath Sabh Thap Sabh Changiaaeeaa ||
All Truth, all austerities, all goodness,

ਸਿਧਾ ਪੁਰਖਾ ਕੀਆ ਵਡਿਆਈਆਂ ॥
Sidhhaa Purakhaa Keeaa Vaddiaaeeaaan ||
And the greatness of the Siddhas, the beings of perfect spiritual powers

ਤੁਧੁ ਵਿਣੁ ਸਿਧੀ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਈਆ ॥
Thudhh Vin Sidhhee Kinai N Paaeeaa ||
Without You, none has attained such spiritual powers.

ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਠਾਕਿ ਰਹਾਈਆ ॥੩॥
Karam Milai Naahee Thaak Rehaaeeaa ||3||
They are obtained by Your Grace; their flow cannot be blocked. ||3||

The Gurmat paths and windows of openings are as follows:-

• ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਸੇਵਹਿ ਸੇ ਪਰਧਾਨਾ ॥ (Raag Maroo M. 1, GGS. 1032-6).
  Sathigur Saevehi Sae Paradhhaanaa ||
  Those who serve the True Guru are supreme and famous.

ਤਿਨ ਘਟ ਘਟ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਪਛਾਨਾ ॥
Thin Ghatt Ghatt Anthar Breham Pashhaanaa ||
Deep within each and every heart, they recognize God.

ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਕੀ ਸੰਗਤਿ ਦੀਜੈ ਜਿਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜਾਤਾ ਹੇ ॥੧੭॥੫॥੧੧॥
Naanak Har Jas Har Jan Kee Sangath Dheejai Jin Sathigur Har Prabh Jaathaa Hae ||17||5||11||
Please bless Nanak with the Lord’s Praises, and the Sangat, the Congregation of the Lord’s humble servants; through the True Guru, they know their Lord God. ||17||5||11||

• ਆਪੁ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਸਰਨਿ ਗੁਰਦੇਵ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 288-13).
  Aap Thiaag Saran Guradhaev ||
  Give up your selfishness and conceit, and seek the Sanctuary of the Divine Guru.
• ਹਰਿ ਜਨੁ ਐਸਾ ਚਾਹੀਐ ਜੈਸਾ ਹਰਿ ਹੀ ਹੋਇ ॥੧੪੯॥ (Salok Kabir, GGS. 1372-9).
  Har Jan Aisaa Chaaheeai Jaisaa Har Hee Hoe ||149||
  The humble servant of the Lord should be just like the Lord. ||149||

Saint Kabir Ji gets so romantic with God that he looses himself and instead sees himself in Him and says:

• ਕਬੀਰ ਮਨੁ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਭਇਆ ਜੈਸਾ ਗੰਗਾ ਨੀਰੁ ॥ (Salok Bhagat Kabir, GGS. 1367).
  Kabeer, my mind has become immaculate, like the waters of the Ganges.

ਪਾਛੈ ਲਾਗੋ ਹਰਿ ਫਿਰੈ ਕਹਤ ਕਬੀਰ ਕਬੀਰ ॥੫੫॥
The Lord follows after me, calling, “”Kabeer! Kabeer!””||55||

Gurbani nicely sums up:

• 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.
• ਸੰਤ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਕੈ ਏਕੈ ਕਾਮ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Gond M. 5, GGS. 867).
  The Saints, and God, have only one job to do. ||1||Pause||
• ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੨੯॥ ( Salok Guru Teg Bahadur, GGS. 1428-1).
  Har Jan Har Anthar Nehee Naanak Saachee Maan ||29||
  There is no difference between the Lord and the humble servant of the Lord; O Nanak, know this as true. ||29||

Gurjatinder Singh Ji – kindly keep in mind the following Gurmat message of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Editor of Guru Granth Sahib Ji – clearly indicating that God is very much accessible by Bhagats on contemplating of Gurbani with full faith and trust:-

• ਭਗਤ ਸੰਗਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਗੋਸਟਿ ਕਰਤ ॥ (Raag Raam kali M. 5, GGS. 894-1).
  Bhagath Sang Prabh Gosatt Karath ||
  God holds conversations with His devotees.
• ਜੋ ਮਾਗਹਿ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਅਪੁਨੇ ਤੇ ਸੋਈ ਸੋਈ ਦੇਵੈ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 681-18).
  Jo Maagehi Thaakur Apunae Thae Soee Soee Dhaevai ||
  Whatever I ask for from my Lord and Master, he gives that to me.

ਨਾਨਕ ਦਾਸੁ ਮੁਖ ਤੇ ਜੋ ਬੋਲੈ ਈਹਾ ਊਹਾ ਸਚੁ ਹੋਵੈ ॥੨॥੧੪॥੪੫॥
Naanak Dhaas Mukh Thae Jo Bolai Eehaa Oohaa Sach Hovai ||2||14||45||
Whatever the Lord’s slave Nanak utters with his mouth, proves to be true, here and hereafter. ||2||14||45||

1 – ਹੁਕਮੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਹੁਕਮ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥ (Jap Guru Nanak, GGS. 1-9).
Hukamai Andhar Sabh Ko Baahar Hukam N Koe ||
Everyone is subject to His Command; no one is beyond His Command.

ਨਾਨਕ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਜੇ ਬੁਝੈ ਤ ਹਉਮੈ ਕਹੈ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥੨॥
Naanak Hukamai Jae Bujhai Th Houmai Kehai N Koe ||2||
O Nanak, one who understands His Command, does not speak in ego. ||2||

2 – ਮੰਨੈ ਮਗੁ ਨ ਚਲੈ ਪੰਥੁ ॥ (Jap Guru Nanak Dev, GGS. 3-9).
Mannai Mag N Chalai Panthh ||
The faithful do not follow empty religious rituals.

ਮੰਨੈ ਧਰਮ ਸੇਤੀ ਸਨਬੰਧੁ ॥
Mannai Dhharam Saethee Sanabandhh ||
The faithful are firmly bound to the Dharma.

3 – ਜਿਤੁ ਬੋਲਿਐ ਪਤਿ ਪਾਈਐ ਸੋ ਬੋਲਿਆ ਪਰਵਾਣੁ ॥ (SGGS: M.1- Page 15-14)
Jit Boleeai Pat Paaeeai So Boliaa Paravaan ||
Those words are acceptable, which, when spoken, bring honour.

ਫਿਕਾ ਬੋਲਿ ਵਿਗੁਚਣਾ ਸੁਣਿ ਮੂਰਖ ਮਨ ਅਜਾਣ ॥
Phikaa Bol Viguchanaa Sun Moorakh Mann Ajaan ||
Harsh words bring only grief. Listen, O foolish and ignorant mind- listen O people

4 – ਸੋ ਜੀਵਿਆ ਜਿਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਸੋਇ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 142-10)
So Jeeviaa Jis Man Vasiaa Soe ||
They alone are truly alive, whose minds are filled with the Lord.

ਨਾਨਕ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਜੀਵੈ ਕੋਇ ॥
Naanak Avar N Jeevai Koe ||
O Nanak, no one else is truly alive;

5 – ਆਪੇ ਕਰਤਾ ਆਪੇ ਭੁਗਤਾ ॥ (Raag Maroo M. 1, 1035-5).
Aapae Karathaa Aapae Bhugathaa ||
| He Himself is the Creator, and He Himself is the Enjoyer.

ਆਪੇ ਤ੍ਰਿਪਤਾ ਆਪੇ ਮੁਕਤਾ ॥
Aapae Thripathaa Aapae Mukathaa ||
He Himself is satisfied, and He Himself is liberated.

ਆਪੇ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਦਾਨੁ ਮੁਕਤੀਸਰੁ ਮਮਤਾ ਮੋਹੁ ਚੁਕਾਇਦਾ ॥੧੪॥
Aapae Mukath Dhaan Mukatheesar Mamathaa Mohu Chukaaeidhaa ||14||
The Lord of liberation Himself grants liberation; He eradicates possessiveness and attachment. ||14||

6- ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਸਾਖੀ ਮੇਰੀ ਸਿੰਙੀ ਬਾਜੈ ਲੋਕੁ ਸੁਣੇ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 877-9).
Surath Sabadh Saakhee Maeree Sinn(g)ee Baajai Lok Sunae ||
Awareness of the Shabad and the Teachings is my horn; the people hear the sound of its vibrations.

ਪਤੁ ਝੋਲੀ ਮੰਗਣ ਕੈ ਤਾਈ ਭੀਖਿਆ ਨਾਮੁ ਪੜੇ ॥੧॥
Path Jholee Mangan Kai Thaaee Bheekhiaa Naam Parrae ||1||
Honor is my begging-bowl, and the Naam, the Name of the Lord, is the charity I receive. ||1||

7- ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਕੈਸੀ ਜਾਣੀਐ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 72-1).
Sathasangath Kaisee Jaaneeai ||
How is the Society of the Saints to be known?

ਜਿਥੈ ਏਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਵਖਾਣੀਐ ॥
Jithhai Eaeko Naam Vakhaaneeai ||
There, the Name of the One Lord is chanted.

ਏਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਹੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਆ ਬੁਝਾਇ ਜੀਉ ॥੫॥
Eaeko Naam Hukam Hai Naanak Sathigur Dheeaa Bujhaae Jeeo ||5||
The One Name is the Lord’s Command; O Nanak, the True Guru has given me this understanding. ||5||

8 – ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾਂ ਹਰਿ ਧਨੁ ਜਸੁ ਪਿਆਰਾ ॥ (Raag Maroo M. 1, GGS. 1043-3).
Santh Janaan Har Dhhan Jas Piaaraa ||
The wealth of the Lord’s Praise is very dear to the humble Saints.

ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਨਾਮੁ ਤੁਮਾਰਾ ॥
Guramath Paaeiaa Naam Thumaaraa ||
Through the Guru’s Teachings, I have obtained Your Name, Lord.

ਜਾਚਿਕੁ ਸੇਵ ਕਰੇ ਦਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਹਰਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਜਸੁ ਗਾਇਆ ॥੬॥
Jaachik Saev Karae Dhar Har Kai Har Dharageh Jas Gaaeiaa ||6||
The beggar serves at the Lord’s door, and in the Court of the Lord, sings His Praises. ||6||

9 – ਹੁਕਮਿ ਮੰਨਿਐ ਹੋਵੈ ਪਰਵਾਣੁ ਤਾ ਖਸਮੈ ਕਾ ਮਹਲੁ ਪਾਇਸੀ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 471-13).
Hukam Manniai Hovai Paravaan Thaa Khasamai Kaa Mehal Paaeisee ||
Obeying the Order of His Will, he becomes acceptable, and then, he obtains the Mansion of the Lord’s Presence.

ਖਸਮੈ ਭਾਵੈ ਸੋ ਕਰੇ ਮਨਹੁ ਚਿੰਦਿਆ ਸੋ ਫਲੁ ਪਾਇਸੀ ॥
Khasamai Bhaavai So Karae Manahu Chindhiaa So Fal Paaeisee ||
One who acts to please His Lord and Master, obtains the fruits of his mind’s desires.

10 – ਹਉ ਢਾਢੀ ਵੇਕਾਰੁ ਕਾਰੈ ਲਾਇਆ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 150-16).
Ho Dtaadtee Vaekaar Kaarai Laaeiaa ||
I was a minstrel, out of work, when the Lord took me into His service.

ਰਾਤਿ ਦਿਹੈ ਕੈ ਵਾਰ ਧੁਰਹੁ ਫੁਰਮਾਇਆ ॥
Raath Dhihai Kai Vaar Dhhurahu Furamaaeiaa ||
To sing His Praises day and night, He gave me His Order, right from the start.

11 – 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||

12 – ਭਗਤ ਤੇਰੈ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵਦੇ ਦਰਿ ਸੋਹਨਿ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਗਾਵਦੇ ॥ (Raag Asa N. 1, GGS. 469-2).
Bhagath Thaerai Man Bhaavadhae Dhar Sohan Keerath Gaavadhae ||
Your devotees are pleasing to Your Mind, Lord. They look beautiful at Your door, singing Your Praises.

ਨਾਨਕ ਕਰਮਾ ਬਾਹਰੇ ਦਰਿ ਢੋਅ ਨ ਲਹਨ੍ਹ੍ਹੀ ਧਾਵਦੇ ॥
Naanak Karamaa Baaharae Dhar Dtoa N Lehanhee Dhhaavadhae ||
O Nanak, those who are denied Your Grace, find no shelter at Your Door; they continue wandering.

ਇਕਿ ਮੂਲੁ ਨ ਬੁਝਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਆਪਣਾ ਅਣਹੋਦਾ ਆਪੁ ਗਣਾਇਦੇ ॥
Eik Mool N Bujhanih Aapanaa Anehodhaa Aap Ganaaeidhae ||
Some do not understand their origins, and without cause, they display their self-conceit.

ਹਉ ਢਾਢੀ ਕਾ ਨੀਚ ਜਾਤਿ ਹੋਰਿ ਉਤਮ ਜਾਤਿ ਸਦਾਇਦੇ ॥
Ho Dtaadtee Kaa Neech Jaath Hor Outham Jaath Sadhaaeidhae ||
I am the Lord’s minstrel, of low social status; others call themselves high caste.

ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਮੰਗਾ ਜਿ ਤੁਝੈ ਧਿਆਇਦੇ ॥੯॥
Thinh Mangaa J Thujhai Dhhiaaeidhae ||9||
I seek those who meditate on You. ||9||

13 -ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਆਖੈ ਆਪਣਾ ਜਿਸੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੋ ਚੁਣਿ ਕਢੀਐ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 473-11).
Sabh Ko Aakhai Aapanaa Jis Naahee So Chun Kadteeai ||
All call You their own, Lord; one who does not own You, is picked up and thrown away.

ਕੀਤਾ ਆਪੋ ਆਪਣਾ ਆਪੇ ਹੀ ਲੇਖਾ ਸੰਢੀਐ ॥
Keethaa Aapo Aapanaa Aapae Hee Laekhaa Sandteeai ||
Everyone receives the rewards of his own actions; his account is adjusted accordingly.

ਜਾ ਰਹਣਾ ਨਾਹੀ ਐਤੁ ਜਗਿ ਤਾ ਕਾਇਤੁ ਗਾਰਬਿ ਹੰਢੀਐ ॥
Jaa Rehanaa Naahee Aith Jag Thaa Kaaeith Gaarab Handteeai ||
Since one is not destined to remain in this world anyway, why should he ruin himself in pride?

ਮੰਦਾ ਕਿਸੈ ਨ ਆਖੀਐ ਪੜਿ ਅਖਰੁ ਏਹੋ ਬੁਝੀਐ ॥
Mandhaa Kisai N Aakheeai Parr Akhar Eaeho Bujheeai ||
Do not call anyone bad; read these words, and understand.

ਮੂਰਖੈ ਨਾਲਿ ਨ ਲੁਝੀਐ ॥੧੯॥
Moorakhai Naal N Lujheeai ||19||
Don’t argue with fools. ||19||

14 – ਨਾਨਕ ਫਿਕੈ ਬੋਲਿਐ ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਫਿਕਾ ਹੋਇ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS 473-14)
Naanak Fikai Boliai Than Man Fikaa Hoe ||
O Nanak, speaking insipid words, the body and mind become insipid.

ਫਿਕੋ ਫਿਕਾ ਸਦੀਐ ਫਿਕੇ ਫਿਕੀ ਸੋਇ ॥
Fiko Fikaa Sadheeai Fikae Fikee Soe ||
He is called the most insipid of the insipid; the most insipid of the insipid is his reputation.

ਫਿਕਾ ਦਰਗਹ ਸਟੀਐ ਮੁਹਿ ਥੁਕਾ ਫਿਕੇ ਪਾਇ ॥
Fikaa Dharageh Satteeai Muhi Thhukaa Fikae Paae ||
The insipid person is discarded in the Court of the Lord, and the insipid one’s face is spat upon.

ਫਿਕਾ ਮੂਰਖੁ ਆਖੀਐ ਪਾਣਾ ਲਹੈ ਸਜਾਇ ॥੧॥
Fikaa Moorakh Aakheeai Paanaa Lehai Sajaae ||1||
The insipid one is called a fool; he is beaten with shoes in punishment. ||1||

15 – ਗੁਰ ਸੇਵਾ ਤੇ ਲਹੈ ਪਦਾਰਥੁ ॥ (Raag Bilaaval M.1, GGS. 832-9).
Gur Saevaa Thae Lehai Padhaarathh ||
Serving the Guru, the treasure is found.

ਹਿਰਦੈ ਨਾਮੁ ਸਦਾ ਕਿਰਤਾਰਥੁ ॥
Hiradhai Naam Sadhaa Kirathaarathh ||
With the Naam in the heart, one always prospers.

16 – ਭੁਲਣ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਅਭੁਲੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਰਤਾਰੁ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 61-7).
Bhulan Andhar Sabh Ko Abhul Guroo Karathaar ||
Everyone makes mistakes; only the Guru and the Creator are infallible.

ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਨੁ ਸਮਝਾਇਆ ਲਾਗਾ ਤਿਸੈ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥
Guramath Man Samajhaaeiaa Laagaa Thisai Piaar ||
One who instructs his mind with the Guru’s Teachings comes to embrace love for the Lord.

17- ਸਾਚਾ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ਨਿਜ ਥਾਇ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 14-11).
Saachaa Nirankaar Nij Thhaae ||
The True Lord, the Formless One, is Himself in His Own Place.

ਸੁਣਿ ਸੁਣਿ ਆਖਣੁ ਆਖਣਾ ਜੇ ਭਾਵੈ ਕਰੇ ਤਮਾਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Sun Sun Aakhan Aakhanaa Jae Bhaavai Karae Thamaae ||1|| Rehaao ||
I have heard, over and over again, and so I tell the tale; as it pleases You, Lord, please instill within me the yearning for You. ||1||Pause||

18 – ਮਤਿ ਵਿਚਿ ਰਤਨ ਜਵਾਹਰ ਮਾਣਿਕ ਜੇ ਇਕ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਿਖ ਸੁਣੀ ॥ ((Jap Guru Nanak, GGS. 2-12))
Math Vich Rathan Javaahar Maanik Jae Eik Gur Kee Sikh Sunee ||
Within the mind are gems, jewels and rubies, if you listen to the Guru’s Teachings, even once.

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||

19 -ਭਾਂਡਾ ਭਾਉ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਤਿਤੁ ਢਾਲਿ ॥ (Jap Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-9).
Bhaanddaa Bhaao Anmrith Thith Dtaal ||
In the crucible of love, melt the Nectar of the Name,

ਘੜੀਐ ਸਬਦੁ ਸਚੀ ਟਕਸਾਲ ॥
Gharreeai Sabadh Sachee Ttakasaal ||
And mint the True Coin of the Shabad, the Word of God.

ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰਮੁ ਤਿਨ ਕਾਰ ॥
Jin Ko Nadhar Karam Thin Kaar ||
Such is the karma of those upon whom He has cast His Glance of Grace.

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰੀ ਨਦਰਿ ਨਿਹਾਲ ॥੩੮॥
Naanak Nadharee Nadhar Nihaal ||38||
O Nanak, the Merciful Lord, by His Grace, uplifts and exalts them. ||38||

20 – ਜਿਨੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਇਆ ਗਏ ਮਸਕਤਿ ਘਾਲਿ ॥ (Salok Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-12).
Jinee Naam Dhhiaaeiaa Geae Masakath Ghaal ||
Those who have meditated on the Naam, the Name of the Lord, and departed after having worked by the sweat of their brows

ਨਾਨਕ ਤੇ ਮੁਖ ਉਜਲੇ ਕੇਤੀ ਛੁਟੀ ਨਾਲਿ ॥੧॥
Naanak Thae Mukh Oujalae Kaethee Shhuttee Naal ||1||
-O Nanak, their faces are radiant in the Court of the Lord, and many are saved along with them! ||1||

21 – ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 24-15).
Thaeraa Eaek Naam Thaarae Sansaar ||
Your Name alone, Lord, saves the world.

ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Mai Eaehaa Aas Eaeho Aadhhaar ||1|| Rehaao ||
This is my hope; this is my support. ||1||Pause||

22 – ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਈਐ ਤਾ ਸਹੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਅਉਰੁ ਕੈਸੀ ਚਤੁਰਾਈ ॥ (Raag Tilang M. 1, GGS. 722-13).
Aap Gavaaeeai Thaa Sahu Paaeeai Aour Kaisee Chathuraaee ||
Give up your selfhood, and so obtain your Husband Lord; what other clever tricks are of any use?

ਸਹੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰਿ ਦੇਖੈ ਸੋ ਦਿਨੁ ਲੇਖੈ ਕਾਮਣਿ ਨਉ ਨਿਧਿ ਪਾਈ ॥
Sahu Nadhar Kar Dhaekhai So Dhin Laekhai Kaaman No Nidhh Paaee ||
When the Husband Lord looks upon the soul-bride with His Gracious Glance, that day is historic – the bride obtains the nine treasures.

23 – ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ॥ ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮਿ ਲਘਾਏ ਪਾਰਿ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-10).
Sikhee Sikhiaa Gur Veechaar || Nadharee Karam Laghaaeae Paar ||
Contemplating the Guru, I have been taught these teachings; Granting His Grace, He carries His servants across.

24 -ਨਾਉ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ਹੈ ਨਾਇ ਲਇਐ ਨਰਕਿ ਨ ਜਾਈਐ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-15).
Naao Thaeraa Nirankaar Hai Naae Laeiai Narak N Jaaeeai ||
Your Name is the Fearless Lord; chanting Your Name, one does not have to go to hell.

ਜੀਉ ਪਿੰਡੁ ਸਭੁ ਤਿਸ ਦਾ ਦੇ ਖਾਜੈ ਆਖਿ ਗਵਾਈਐ ॥
Jeeo Pindd Sabh This Dhaa Dhae Khaajai Aakh Gavaaeeai ||
Soul and body all belong to Him; asking Him to give us sustenance is a waste.

25 – ਸਾਗਰ ਮਹਿ ਬੂੰਦ ਬੂੰਦ ਮਹਿ ਸਾਗਰੁ ਕਵਣੁ ਬੁਝੈ ਬਿਧਿ ਜਾਣੈ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, 878-18).
Saagar Mehi Boondh Boondh Mehi Saagar Kavan Bujhai Bidhh Jaanai ||
The drop is in the ocean, and the ocean is in the drop. Who understands, and knows this?

ਉਤਭੁਜ ਚਲਤ ਆਪਿ ਕਰਿ ਚੀਨੈ ਆਪੇ ਤਤੁ ਪਛਾਣੈ ॥੧॥
Outhabhuj Chalath Aap Kar Cheenai Aapae Thath Pashhaanai ||1||
He Himself creates the wondrous play of the world. He Himself contemplates it, and understands its true essence. ||1||

26 – ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋਈ ਨਿਰਧਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਬੂਝ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥੪॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS. 1232-11).
Without the Name, everyone is poor; the True Guru has imparted this understanding. ||4||

27 – ਬਾਝੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਬਾਰੁ ਹੈ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਬੂਝ ਨ ਪਾਇ ॥ (Raag Sriraag, M.1. GGS. 55).
Without the Guru, there is only pitch darkness; without the Shabad, understanding is not obtained.

28 – ਪਰਵਾਹ ਨਾਹੀ ਕਿਸੈ ਕੇਰੀ ਬਾਝੁ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਹ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 473-18).
Paravaah Naahee Kisai Kaeree Baajh Sachae Naah ||
I do not care for anything else, except the True Husband Lord.

ਦਰਿ ਵਾਟ ਉਪਰਿ ਖਰਚੁ ਮੰਗਾ ਜਬੈ ਦੇਇ ਤ ਖਾਹਿ ॥
Dhar Vaatt Oupar Kharach Mangaa Jabai Dhaee Th Khaahi ||
Sitting, waiting at the Lord’s Door, I beg for food of enlightenment, and when He gives to me, I consume.

29 – ਗਿਆਨੁ ਨ ਗਲੀਈ ਢੂਢੀਐ ਕਥਨਾ ਕਰੜਾ ਸਾਰੁ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-1).
Giaan N Galeeee Dtoodteeai Kathhanaa Kararraa Saar ||
Wisdom cannot be found through mere words. To explain it is as hard as iron.

ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਤਾ ਪਾਈਐ ਹੋਰ ਹਿਕਮਤਿ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥੨॥
Karam Milai Thaa Paaeeai Hor Hikamath Hukam Khuaar ||2||
When the Lord bestows His Grace, then alone it is received; other tricks and orders are useless. ||2||

30 – ਕਰਮ ਖੰਡ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਜੋਰੁ ॥ ਤਿਥੈ ਹੋਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ਹੋਰੁ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-3).
In the realm of karma, the Word is Power. No one else dwells there,

ਤਿਥੈ ਜੋਧ ਮਹਾਬਲ ਸੂਰ ॥ ਤਿਨ ਮਹਿ ਰਾਮੁ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰ ॥
Except the warriors of great power, the spiritual heroes. They are totally fulfilled, imbued with the Lord’s Essence.

ਤਿਥੈ ਸੀਤੋ ਸੀਤਾ ਮਹਿਮਾ ਮਾਹਿ ॥ ਤਾ ਕੇ ਰੂਪ ਨ ਕਥਨੇ ਜਾਹਿ ॥
Those engrossed in Divinity remain cool and calm in their majestic glory. Their beauty cannot be described.

ਨਾ ਓਹਿ ਮਰਹਿ ਨ ਠਾਗੇ ਜਾਹਿ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਕੈ ਰਾਮੁ ਵਸੈ ਮਨ ਮਾਹਿ ॥
Neither death nor deception comes to those, Within whose minds the Lord abides.

ਤਿਥੈ ਭਗਤ ਵਸਹਿ ਕੇ ਲੋਅ ॥ ਕਰਹਿ ਅਨੰਦੁ ਸਚਾ ਮਨਿ ਸੋਇ ॥
The devotees of many worlds dwell there. They celebrate; their minds are imbued with the True Lord.

31 – ਸਬਦੁ ਗੁਰ ਪੀਰਾ ਗਹਿਰ ਗੰਭੀਰਾ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਜਗੁ ਬਉਰਾਨੰ ॥ (Raag Sorath M. 1, GGS. 635-6).
Sabadh Gur Peeraa Gehir Ganbheeraa Bin Sabadhai Jag Bouraanan ||
The Word of the Shabad is his Guru and spiritual teacher, profound and unfathomable; without the Shabad, the world is insane.

32 – ਹਉਮੈ ਛੋਡਿ ਭਈ ਬੈਰਾਗਨਿ ਤਬ ਸਾਚੀ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਮਾਨੀ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 1, GGS. 1197-7).
Houmai Shhodd Bhee Bairaagan Thab Saachee Surath Samaanee ||
Abandoning egotism, I have become detached. And now, I absorb true intuitive understanding.

ਅਕੁਲ ਨਿਰੰਜਨ ਸਿਉ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ਬਿਸਰੀ ਲਾਜ ਲਦ਼ਕਾਨੀ ॥੩॥
Akul Niranjan Sio Man Maaniaa Bisaree Laaj Luokaanee ||3||
The mind is pleased and appeased by the Pure, Immaculate Lord; the opinions of other people are irrelevant. ||3||

ਭੂਰ ਭਵਿਖ ਨਾਹੀ ਤੁਮ ਜੈਸੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ ਪ੍ਰਾਨ ਅਧਾਰਾ ॥
Bhoor Bhavikh Naahee Thum Jaisae Maerae Preetham Praan Adhhaaraa ||
There is no other like You, in the past or in the future, O my Beloved, my Breath of Life, my Support.

ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਨਾਮਿ ਰਤੀ ਸੋਹਾਗਨਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਰਾਮ ਭਤਾਰਾ ॥੪॥੧॥
Har Kai Naam Rathee Sohaagan Naanak Raam Bhathaaraa ||4||1||
The soul-bride is imbued with the Name of the Lord; O Nanak, the Lord is her Husband. ||4||1||

33 – ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਹੋਏ ਸਚਿਆਰ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 470-8).
Chaarae Vaedh Hoeae Sachiaar ||
The four Vedas each claim to be true.

ਪੜਹਿ ਗੁਣਹਿ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਚਾਰ ਵੀਚਾਰ ॥
Parrehi Gunehi Thinh Chaar Veechaar ||
Reading and studying them, four doctrines are found.

ਭਾਉ ਭਗਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਨੀਚੁ ਸਦਾਏ ॥
Bhaao Bhagath Kar Neech Sadhaaeae ||
With loving devotional worship, abiding in humility,

ਤਉ ਨਾਨਕ ਮੋਖੰਤਰੁ ਪਾਏ ॥੨॥
Tho Naanak Mokhanthar Paaeae ||2||
O Nanak, salvation is attained. ||2||

34 – ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਕਿਆ ਟਿਕਾ ਕਿਆ ਤਗੁ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 467-6).
Naanak Sachae Naam Bin Kiaa Ttikaa Kiaa Thag ||1||
O Nanak, without the True Name, of what use is the frontal mark of the Hindus, or their sacred thread? ||1||

35- ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਹੈ ਸੋਇ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਚਾਨਣਿ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਹੋਇ ॥ (Raag Dhanasree M. 1, GGS.13-5).
Sabh Mehi Joth Joth Hai Soe ||
Amongst all is the Light-You are that Light.

ਤਿਸ ਦੈ ਚਾਨਣਿ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਹੋਇ ॥
This Dhai Chaanan Sabh Mehi Chaanan Hoe ||
By this Illumination, that Light is radiant within all.

36- . ਫਕੜ ਜਾਤੀ ਫਕੜੁ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਇਕਾ ਛਾਉ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 83-13).
Fakarr Jaathee Fakarr Naao || Sabhanaa Jeeaa Eikaa Shhaao ||
Pride in social status is empty; pride in personal glory is useless.
The One Lord gives shade to all beings.

37- ਵਿਦਿਆ ਵੀਚਾਰੀ ਤਾਂ ਪਰਉਪਕਾਰੀ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 356-14).
Vidhiaa Veechaaree Thaan Paroupakaaree ||
Contemplate and reflect upon knowledge, and you will become a benefactor to others.

38 – ਸਚਹੁ ਓਰੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਉਪਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਆਚਾਰੁ ॥੫॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 62-11).
Sachahu Ourai Sabh Ko Oupar Sach Aachaar ||5||
Truth is higher than everything; but higher still is truthful living. ||5||

ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਊਚਾ ਆਖੀਐ ਨੀਚੁ ਨ ਦੀਸੈ ਕੋਇ ॥
Sabh Ko Oochaa Aakheeai Neech N Dheesai Koe ||
Call everyone exalted; no one seems lowly.

ਇਕਨੈ ਭਾਂਡੇ ਸਾਜਿਐ ਇਕੁ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਤਿਹੁ ਲੋਇ ॥
Eikanai Bhaanddae Saajiai Eik Chaanan Thihu Loe ||
The One Lord has fashioned the vessels, and His One Light pervades the three worlds.

ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਚੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਧੁਰਿ ਬਖਸ ਨ ਮੇਟੈ ਕੋਇ ॥੬॥
Karam Milai Sach Paaeeai Dhhur Bakhas N Maettai Koe ||6||
Receiving His Grace, we obtain Truth. No one can erase His Primal Blessing. ||6||

39-. ਘਾਲਿ ਖਾਇ ਕਿਛੁ ਹਥਹੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਰਾਹੁ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਸੇਇ ॥੧॥ (Raag Sarang, M. 1, GGS 1245 -19).
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||

40-. ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਕਿਸੈ ਨ ਲਥੀ ਭੁਖ ॥੩॥ (Raag Maaroo, M.1, GGS. 1091-4).
Naanak Sachae Naam Bin Kisai N Lathhee Bhukh ||3||
O Nanak, without the True Name, no one’s hunger is appeased. ||3||

The entire Bani of Jap Ji Sahib especially the opening verse with ੴ and the concept of Gurparsad carry awakening messages beside Asa di Vaar, Sidh Gosht etc

ੴ ਸਤਿਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ਅਕਾਲ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਅਜੂਨੀ ਸੈਭੰ ਗੁਰਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥ (Jap, Guru Nanak, GGS. 1-1).
Ikoankaar Sathnaam Karathaa Purakh Nirabho Niravair Akaal Moorath Ajoonee Saibhan Gurprasaadh||
One Universal Creator God, TheName Is Truth Creative Being Personified No Fear No Hatred Image Of The Undying, Beyond Birth, Self-Existent. By Guru’s Grace~

ਆਦਿ ਸਚੁ ਜੁਗਾਦਿ ਸਚੁ ॥ (Jap, Guru Nanak, GGS. 1-4).
Aadh Sach Jugaadh Sach ||
True In The Primal Beginning. True Throughout The Ages.

ਹੈ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹੋਸੀ ਭੀ ਸਚੁ ॥੧॥
Hai Bhee Sach Naanak Hosee Bhee Sach ||1||
True Here And Now. O Nanak, Forever And Ever True. ||1||

Wishing you all happy a Parkash Divas of Guru Nanak Sahib.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

Punjabi is a spoken language (dialect) but Gurmukhi is its script, in which it is written. Punjabi has been the spoken language of the people in Punjab since prehistoric times. Baba Farid who was a mystic poet (1173-1266), born in Multan, now in Pakistan wrote his kalam in Punjabi around 8oo years ago rather than in Persian as was the norm of the day. A part of Baba Farid’s writings appear in the Guru Granth Sahib. In Pakistan, Punjabi is written in Shahmukhi.

Punjabi, until the birth of Sikhism was only a spoken dialect and did not have a script for its proper pronunciation expressions and writing. Guru Nanak Sahib developed the script for Punjabi language by selecting appropriate letters from other scripts current in north India and creating some new ones. He perfected the script with acrophils and laid down the rules for its grammar. The alphabet has thirty five letters. He composed a hymn enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib in Rag Asa M1, on pages 432 to 434, as “Patti” in the form of an acoustic, making use of the 35-letter alphabet. Thus the Sikhs developed their dialect into written language.

It gave the Sikhs a written language distinct from language of Hindus (Sanskrit / Vedas) and Muslims (Arabic / Quran). The script was named Gurmukhi (The script used to write the language spoken from the mouth of the Guru) by his successor,

Guru Angad, who greatly propagated the use of Gurmukhi letters in his drive for literacy among his followers–“The Sikhs”. He prepared primers (Bal-updesh) of Punjabi / Gurmukhi alphabet and made copies of Guru Nanak’s hymns and distributed them among the people leading to the increase in the number of literates in the Punjab. Thus he broke the monopoly of the Brahmin over learning.

Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru compiled , Aad Granth (Guru Granth Sahib), the holy Sikh scripture in Gurmukhi script in 1604 A.D and installed the first volume reverentially in the building, which had been completed by him three years earlier.

Teaching of Punjabi in Gurmukhi script started in Oriental College Lahore in 1877. The Punjab Legislative Assembly under the Chief-Minister Sardar Lachman Singh Gill in 1967, legislated and made Punjabi in Gurmukhi script as the official language of the Punjab. Now there is Punjabi University in Patiala, which is the second university in the whole world established in the name of a language, the first one being Hebrew university in Israel.

In order to understand Gurbani, it is essential have a grasp of Punjabi and Gurmukhi:-

• ਦੀਵਾ ਬਲੈ ਅੰਧੇਰਾ ਜਾਇ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 1, GGS. 791-2),
  Dheevaa Balai Andhhaeraa Jaae ||
  When the lamp is lit, the darkness is dispelled;

ਬੇਦ ਪਾਠ ਮਤਿ ਪਾਪਾ ਖਾਇ ॥
Baedh Paath Math Paapaa Khaae ||
Reading the Vedas, sinful intellect is destroyed.

ਉਗਵੈ ਸੂਰੁ ਨ ਜਾਪੈ ਚੰਦੁ ॥
Ougavai Soor N Jaapai Chandh ||
When the sun rises, the moon is not visible.

ਜਹ ਗਿਆਨ ਪ੍ਰਗਾਸੁ ਅਗਿਆਨੁ ਮਿਟੰਤੁ ॥
Jeh Giaan Pragaas Agiaan Mittanth ||
Wherever spiritual wisdom appears, ignorance is dispelled.

ਬੇਦ ਪਾਠ ਸੰਸਾਰ ਕੀ ਕਾਰ ॥
Baedh Paath Sansaar Kee Kaar ||
Reading the Vedas is the world’s occupation;

ਪੜ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਪੜ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਕਰਹਿ ਬੀਚਾਰ ॥
Parrih Parrih Panddith Karehi Beechaar ||
The Pandits read them, study them and contemplate them.

ਬਿਨੁ ਬੂਝੇ ਸਭ ਹੋਇ ਖੁਆਰ ॥
Bin Boojhae Sabh Hoe Khuaar ||
Without understanding, all are ruined.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਉਤਰਸਿ ਪਾਰਿ ॥੧॥
Naanak Guramukh Outharas Paar ||1||
O Nanak, the Gurmukh is carried across. ||1||

• ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਇਸੁ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਕਰਮਿ ਵਸੈ ਮਨਿ ਆਏ ॥੧॥ (Sri Raag M. 3, GGS. 67-10).
  Gurabaanee Eis Jag Mehi Chaanan Karam Vasai Man Aaeae ||1||
  Gurbani is the Light to illuminate this world; by His Grace, it comes to abide within the mind. ||1||

Gurbani is light-house and Gurbani without Punjabi and Gurmukhi cannot be accessed. So there is need to learn to speak Punjabi and write in Gurmukhi.

It is sad that some people in Punjab during census say in Punjabi that their Maa Boli is other than Punjabi even when they communicate with their elders only in Punjabi. Such people are unlucky to deprive themselves of the treasure in Guru Granth Sahib.

The best that happened to me after witnessing the horrors of partition of India was that I was able to enroll in the Sri Teg Bahadur Khalsa Higher Secondary School in Karol Bagh/Dev Nagar in Delhi (1948), where I learnt Punjabi language after learning Urdu in my primary School in Rawalpindi. Learning Gurmukhi/Punjabi gave me a new lease of life of joy and fulfilment. I was able to read the Guru Granth Sahib at age 15 and was placed in merit in the all India Dharmak Examination held by the SGPC at the age of 17.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
PS – The Indian High Commission of India in Wellington, NZ is going to celebrate Punjabi Week on the 3rd November 2024. I shall endeavour to share an excerpts from the above write-up to the gathering on this occasion.