Gurmat Saachi Saacha Vichaar

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.

How can one say all these names in one go? Not possible. However, looking at all these and many more names one starts wondering that who is such a wonderful entity who serves as a spiritual ladder, boat and raft for Guru Nanak Sahib? – the answer automatically comes ‘What a Wonderous Guru’ – WAHEGURU, which includes all His names and attributes.

The first Guru of the Sikh is UNDOUBTEDLY the One who is and was the GURU of Guru Nanak, and that is WAHEGURU. All other Gurus and Bhagats and Mahpurakhs testify in the same in the entire Gurbani of the Guru Granth Sahib.

However, the Gurbani points out:-

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||

Guru Nanak Sahib is Har Jan – ik mik with WAHEGURU. So Guru Nanak Sahib is God/Waheguru for me. The reasons being various as given below and endorsed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, The Editor of Adi Granth Sahib and Bhatt Kirat Ji:-

1. ਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਤੇਰਿਆ ਚਰਣਾ ਕਉ ਬਲਿਹਾਰਾ ॥੪॥੧॥੪੭॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 747-2).
Gur Naanak Miliaa Paarabreham Thaeriaa Charanaa Ko Balihaaraa ||4||1||47||
Guru Nanak has met the Supreme Lord God; I am a sacrifice to Your Feet. ||4||1||47||

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

3. ਸਤਿ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, 286-12).
Sath Purakh Jin Jaaniaa Sathigur This Kaa Naao ||
The one who knows the True Lord God, is called the True Guru.

ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਿਖੁ ਉਧਰੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਉ ॥੧॥
This Kai Sang Sikh Oudhharai Naanak Har Gun Gaao ||1||
In His Company, the Sikh is saved, O Nanak, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||1||

4. ਸਭ ਤੇ ਵਡਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਕਲ ਰਾਖੀ ਮੇਰੀ ॥੪॥੧੦॥੫੭॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 750-4).
Sabh Thae Vaddaa Sathigur Naanak Jin Kal Raakhee Maeree ||4||10||57||
Guru Nanak is the greatest of all; He saved my honor in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga. ||4||10||57||

5. ਜਨਮ ਮਰਣ ਦੁਹਹੂ ਮਹਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਜਨ ਪਰਉਪਕਾਰੀ ਆਏ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 749-3).
Janam Maran Dhuhehoo Mehi Naahee Jan Paroupakaaree Aaeae ||
Those generous, humble beings are above both birth and death.

ਜੀਅ ਦਾਨੁ ਦੇ ਭਗਤੀ ਲਾਇਨਿ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਉ ਲੈਨਿ ਮਿਲਾਏ ॥੨॥
Jeea Dhaan Dhae Bhagathee Laaein Har Sio Lain Milaaeae ||2||
They give the gift of the soul, and practice devotional worship; they inspire others to meet the Lord. ||2||

ਸਚਾ ਅਮਰੁ ਸਚੀ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹੀ ਸਚੇ ਸੇਤੀ ਰਾਤੇ ॥
Sachaa Amar Sachee Paathisaahee Sachae Saethee Raathae ||
True are their commands, and true are their empires; they are attuned to the Truth.

ਸਚਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਸਚੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਜਿਸ ਕੇ ਸੇ ਤਿਨਿ ਜਾਤੇ ॥੩॥
Sachaa Sukh Sachee Vaddiaaee Jis Kae Sae Thin Jaathae ||3||
True is their happiness, and true is their greatness. They know the Lord, to whom they belong. ||3||

6. ਆਪਿ ਨਰਾਇਣੁ ਕਲਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਪਰਵਰਿਯਉ ॥ (Savaiye (praise of Guru Amar Das) Bhatt Kirat, GGS. 1395-6).
Aap Naraaein Kalaa Dhhaar Jag Mehi Paravariyo ||
The Lord Himself wielded His Power and entered the world.

ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰਿ ਆਕਾਰੁ ਜੋਤਿ ਜਗ ਮੰਡਲਿ ਕਰਿਯਉ ॥
Nirankaar Aakaar Joth Jag Manddal Kariyo ||
The Formless Lord took form, and with His Light He illuminated the realms of the world.

ਜਹ ਕਹ ਤਹ ਭਰਪੂਰੁ ਸਬਦੁ ਦੀਪਕਿ ਦੀਪਾਯਉ ॥
Jeh Keh Theh Bharapoor Sabadh Dheepak Dheepaayo ||
He is All-pervading everywhere; the Lamp of the Shabad, the Word, has been lit.

ਜਿਹ ਸਿਖਹ ਸੰਗ੍ਰਹਿਓ ਤਤੁ ਹਰਿ ਚਰਣ ਮਿਲਾਯਉ ॥
Jih Sikheh Sangrehiou Thath Har Charan Milaayo ||
Whoever gathers in the essence of the teachings shall be absorbed in the Feet of the Lord.

ਨਾਨਕ ਕੁਲਿ ਨਿੰਮਲੁ ਅਵਤਰ੍ਯ੍ਯਿਉ ਅੰਗਦ ਲਹਣੇ ਸੰਗਿ ਹੁਅ ॥
Naanak Kul Ninmal Avathariyo Angadh Lehanae Sang Hua ||
Lehnaa, who became Guru Angad, and Guru Amar Daas, have been reincarnated into the pure house of Guru Nanak.

ਗੁਰ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਤਾਰਣ ਤਰਣ ਜਨਮ ਜਨਮ ਪਾ ਸਰਣਿ ਤੁਅ ॥੨॥੧੬॥
Gur Amaradhaas Thaaran Tharan Janam Janam Paa Saran Thua ||2||16||
Guru Amar Daas is our Saving Grace, who carries us across; in lifetime after lifetime, I seek the Sanctuary of Your Feet. ||2||16||

ਜਪੁ ਤਪੁ ਸਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਪਿਖਿ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਗੁਰ ਸਿਖਹ ॥
Jap Thap Sath Santhokh Pikh Dharasan Gur Sikheh ||
Gazing upon the Blessed Vision of His Darshan, the Gursikh is blessed with chanting and deep meditation, truth and contentment.

ਸਰਣਿ ਪਰਹਿ ਤੇ ਉਬਰਹਿ ਛੋਡਿ ਜਮ ਪੁਰ ਕੀ ਲਿਖਹ ॥
Saran Parehi Thae Oubarehi Shhodd Jam Pur Kee Likheh ||
Whoever seeks His Sanctuary is saved; his account is cleared in the City of Death.

ਭਗਤਿ ਭਾਇ ਭਰਪੂਰੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਉਚਰੈ ਕਰਤਾਰੈ ॥
Bhagath Bhaae Bharapoor Ridhai Oucharai Karathaarai ||
His heart is totally filled with loving devotion; he chants to the Creator Lord.

ਗੁਰੁ ਗਉਹਰੁ ਦਰੀਆਉ ਪਲਕ ਡੁਬੰਤ੍ਯ੍ਯਹ ਤਾਰੈ ॥
Gur Gouhar Dhareeaao Palak Ddubanthyeh Thaarai ||
The Guru is the river of pearls; in an instant, he carries the drowning ones across.

ਨਾਨਕ ਕੁਲਿ ਨਿੰਮਲੁ ਅਵਤਰ੍ਯ੍ਯਿਉ ਗੁਣ ਕਰਤਾਰੈ ਉਚਰੈ ॥
Naanak Kul Ninmal Avathariyo Gun Karathaarai Oucharai ||
He was reincarnated into the House of Guru Nanak; He chants the Glorious Praises of the Creator Lord.

ਗੁਰੁ ਅਮਰਦਾਸੁ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਸੇਵਿਅਉ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਦੁਖੁ ਦਰਿਦ੍ਰੁ ਪਰਹਰਿ ਪਰੈ ॥੩॥੧੭॥
Gur Amaradhaas Jinh Saeviao Thinh Dhukh Dharidhra Parehar Parai ||3||17||
Those who serve Guru Amar Daas – their pains and poverty are taken away, far away. ||3||17||

ਚਿਤਿ ਚਿਤਵਉ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਕਹਉ ਪਰੁ ਕਹਿ ਭਿ ਨ ਸਕਉ ॥
Chith Chithavo Aradhaas Keho Par Kehi Bh N Sako ||
I consciously pray within my consciousness, but I cannot express it in words.

ਸਰਬ ਚਿੰਤ ਤੁਝੁ ਪਾਸਿ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਹਉ ਤਕਉ ॥
Sarab Chinth Thujh Paas Saadhhasangath Ho Thako ||
I place all my worries and anxieties before You; I look to the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, for help.

ਤੇਰੈ ਹੁਕਮਿ ਪਵੈ ਨੀਸਾਣੁ ਤਉ ਕਰਉ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਕੀ ਸੇਵਾ ॥
Thaerai Hukam Pavai Neesaan Tho Karo Saahib Kee Saevaa ||
By the Hukam of Your Command, I am blessed with Your Insignia; I serve my Lord and Master.

ਜਬ ਗੁਰੁ ਦੇਖੈ ਸੁਭ ਦਿਸਟਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਮੁਖਿ ਮੇਵਾ ॥
Jab Gur Dhaekhai Subh Dhisatt Naam Karathaa Mukh Maevaa ||
When You, O Guru, gaze at me with Your Glance of Grace, the fruit of the Naam, the Name of the Creator, is placed within my mouth.

ਅਗਮ ਅਲਖ ਕਾਰਣ ਪੁਰਖ ਜੋ ਫੁਰਮਾਵਹਿ ਸੋ ਕਹਉ ॥
Agam Alakh Kaaran Purakh Jo Furamaavehi So Keho ||
The Unfathomable and Unseen Primal Lord God, the Cause of causes – as He orders, so do I speak.

ਗੁਰ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਕਾਰਣ ਕਰਣ ਜਿਵ ਤੂ ਰਖਹਿ ਤਿਵ ਰਹਉ ॥੪॥੧੮॥
Gur Amaradhaas Kaaran Karan Jiv Thoo Rakhehi Thiv Reho ||4||18||
O Guru Amar Daas, Doer of deeds, Cause of causes, as You keep me, I remain; as You protect me, I survive. ||4||18||

7. ਨਿਰਗੁਨੁ ਆਪਿ ਸਰਗੁਨੁ ਭੀ ਓਹੀ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 287-17).
Niragun Aap Saragun Bhee Ouhee ||
He Himself is absolute and unrelated; He Himself is also involved and related.

ਕਲਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਮੋਹੀ ॥
Kalaa Dhhaar Jin Sagalee Mohee ||
Manifesting His power, He fascinates the entire world.

ਅਪਨੇ ਚਰਿਤ ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਆਪਿ ਬਨਾਏ ॥
Apanae Charith Prabh Aap Banaaeae ||
God Himself sets His play in motion.

ਅਪੁਨੀ ਕੀਮਤਿ ਆਪੇ ਪਾਏ ॥
Apunee Keemath Aapae Paaeae ||
Only He Himself can estimate His worth.

ਹਰਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਦੂਜਾ ਨਾਹੀ ਕੋਇ ॥
Har Bin Dhoojaa Naahee Koe ||
There is none, other than the Lord.

ਸਰਬ ਨਿਰੰਤਰਿ ਏਕੋ ਸੋਇ ॥
Sarab Niranthar Eaeko Soe ||
Permeating all, He is the One.

The above Gurbani quotes point out All Gurus, Bhagats and Mahapurakhs whose Bani is incorporated in the Guru Granth Sahib were Surgun Saroops of God/Waheguru.

With Waheguru’s blessings.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Guru Nanak Sahib and his Gurmat Messages*

Personality of Guru Nanak Sahib

Guru Nanak Sahib gives a glimpse of his profound association with his Khasam (God/Akalpurakh) in the following verses:-

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.

ਢਾਢੀ ਸਚੈ ਮਹਲਿ ਖਸਮਿ ਬੁਲਾਇਆ ॥
Dtaadtee Sachai Mehal Khasam Bulaaeiaa ||
My Lord and Master has summoned me, His minstrel, to the True Mansion of His Presence.

ਸਚੀ ਸਿਫਤਿ ਸਾਲਾਹ ਕਪੜਾ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
Sachee Sifath Saalaah Kaparraa Paaeiaa ||
He has dressed me in the robes of His True Praise and Glory.

ਸਚਾ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਭੋਜਨੁ ਆਇਆ ॥
Sachaa Anmrith Naam Bhojan Aaeiaa ||
The Ambrosial Nectar of the True Name has become my food.

ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਖਾਧਾ ਰਜਿ ਤਿਨਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
Guramathee Khaadhhaa Raj Thin Sukh Paaeiaa ||
Those who follow the Guru’s Teachings, who eat this food and are satisfied, find peace.

ਢਾਢੀ ਕਰੇ ਪਸਾਉ ਸਬਦੁ ਵਜਾਇਆ ॥
Dtaadtee Karae Pasaao Sabadh Vajaaeiaa ||
His minstrel spreads His Glory, singing and vibrating the Word of His Shabad.

ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਲਾਹਿ ਪੂਰਾ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੨੭॥ ਸੁਧੁ
Naanak Sach Saalaahi Pooraa Paaeiaa ||27|| Sudhhu
O Nanak, praising the True Lord, I have obtained His Perfection. ||27||Sudh||

Guru Nanak shows his gratitude to One GOD:-

-ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਗੁਰ ਆਪਣੇ ਦਿਉਹਾੜੀ ਸਦ ਵਾਰ ॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak, GGS. 462-19).
Balihaaree Gur Aapanae Dhiouhaarree Sadh Vaar ||
A hundred times a day, I am a sacrifice to my Guru;

ਜਿਨਿ ਮਾਣਸ ਤੇ ਦੇਵਤੇ ਕੀਏ ਕਰਤ ਨ ਲਾਗੀ ਵਾਰ ॥੧॥
Jin Maanas Thae Dhaevathae Keeeae Karath N Laagee Vaar ||1||
He made angels out of men, without delay. ||1||

One God of Guru Nanak is defined as IK OANKAR in the Mool Mantar in Jap Ji Sahib:-
ੴ ਸਤਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ਅਕਾਲ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਅਜੂਨੀ ਸੈਭੰ ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥ (Jap Ji Sahib, 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.

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

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

ਏਕੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ ਦੂਜਾ ਮਾਰਿ ਸਬਦਿ ਪਛਾਤਾ ॥੬॥
Eaek Niranjan Guramukh Jaathaa ||Dhoojaa Maar Sabadh Pashhaathaa ||6||
The Gurmukh knows the One Immaculate Lord. Subduing duality, one comes to realize the Word of the Shabad. ||6||

ਏਕੋ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਵਰਤੈ ਸਭ ਲੋਈ ॥ ਏਕਸੁ ਤੇ ਸਭ ਓਪਤਿ ਹੋਈ ॥੭॥
Eaeko Hukam Varathai Sabh Loee ||Eaekas Thae Sabh Oupath Hoee ||7||
The Command of the One Lord prevails throughout all the worlds. From the One, all have arisen. ||7||

ਰਾਹ ਦੋਵੈ ਖਸਮੁ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਣੁ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਪਛਾਣੁ ॥੮॥
Raah Dhovai Khasam Eaeko Jaan ||Gur Kai Sabadh Hukam Pashhaan ||8||
There are two routes, but remember that their Lord and Master is only One. Through the Word of the Guru’s Shabad, recognize the Hukam of the Lord’s Command. ||8||

ਸਗਲ ਰੂਪ ਵਰਨ ਮਨ ਮਾਹੀ ॥ ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਏਕੋ ਸਾਲਾਹੀ ॥੯॥੫॥
Sagal Roop Varan Man Maahee ||Kahu Naanak Eaeko Saalaahee ||9||5||
He is contained in all forms, colors and minds. Says Nanak, praise the One Lord.. ||9||5||

Guru Nanak Sahib gives full credit to Divine Nadr/Gurparsad (Grace) for his emancipation:-

ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰਮੁ ਤਿਨ ਕਾਰ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰੀ ਨਦਰਿ ਨਿਹਾਲ ॥੩੮॥(Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-9).
Jin Ko Nadhar Karam Thin Kaar || Naanak Nadharee Nadhar Nihaal ||38||
Such is the karma of those upon whom He has cast His Glance of Grace. O Nanak, the Merciful Lord, by His Grace, uplifts and exalts them. ||38||

Guru Nanak Sahib is Har Jan – ik mik with WAHEGURU. So Guru Nanak Sahib is Sargun Saroop of God/Waheguru for me. The reasons being various as given below and endorsed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, The Editor of Adi Granth Sahib, Bhatt Kirat Ji and Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and Bhai Gurdas Ji:-

– . ਸਭ ਤੇ ਵਡਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਕਲ ਰਾਖੀ ਮੇਰੀ ॥੪॥੧੦॥੫੭॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 750-4).
Sabh Thae Vaddaa Sathigur Naanak Jin Kal Raakhee Maeree ||4||10||57||
Guru Nanak is the greatest of all; He saved my honor in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga. ||4||10||57||

– ਜਨਮ ਮਰਣ ਦੁਹਹੂ ਮਹਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਜਨ ਪਰਉਪਕਾਰੀ ਆਏ ॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS.. 749-3).
Janam Maran Dhuhehoo Mehi Naahee Jan Paroupakaaree Aaeae ||
Those generous, humble beings are above both birth and death.

ਜੀਅ ਦਾਨੁ ਦੇ ਭਗਤੀ ਲਾਇਨਿ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਉ ਲੈਨਿ ਮਿਲਾਏ ॥੨॥
Jeea Dhaan Dhae Bhagathee Laaein Har Sio Lain Milaaeae ||2||
They give the gift of the soul, and practice devotional worship; they inspire others to meet the Lord. ||2||

– ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਮਹਿ ਜਨੁ ਜਨ ਮਹਿ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ॥ ਏਕਹਿ ਆਪਿ ਨਹੀ ਕਛੁ ਭਰਮੁ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 287-3).
Breham Mehi Jan Jan Mehi Paarabreham ||Eaekehi Aap Nehee Kashh Bharam ||
The servant is in God, and God is in the servant. He Himself is One – there is no doubt about this.

– ਸਤਿ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਿਖੁ ਉਧਰੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਉ ॥੧॥(Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 286-12).
Sath Purakh Jin Jaaniaa Sathigur This Kaa Naao ||This Kai Sang Sikh Oudhharai Naanak Har Gun Gaao ||1||
The one who knows the True Lord God, is called the True Guru. In His Company, the Sikh is saved, O Nanak, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. ||1||

– ਨਿਰਗੁਨੁ ਆਪਿ ਸਰਗੁਨੁ ਭੀ ਓਹੀ ॥ ਕਲਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਮੋਹੀ ॥(Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 287-17).
Niragun Aap Saragun Bhee Ouhee ||Kalaa Dhhaar Jin Sagalee Mohee ||
He Himself is absolute and unrelated; He Himself is also involved and related. Manifesting His power, He fascinates the entire world.

-. ਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਤੇਰਿਆ ਚਰਣਾ ਕਉ ਬਲਿਹਾਰਾ ॥੪॥੧॥੪੭॥ (Raag Suhi M. 5, GGS. 747-2).
Gur Naanak Miliaa Paarabreham Thaeriaa Charanaa Ko Balihaaraa ||4||1||47||
Guru Nanak has met the Supreme Lord God; I am a sacrifice to Your Feet. ||4||1||47||

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

– ਆਪਿ ਨਰਾਇਣੁ ਕਲਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਪਰਵਰਿਯਉ ॥ (Savaiye (praise of Guru Amar Das) Bhatt Kirat, GGS. 1395-6).
Aap Naraaein Kalaa Dhhaar Jag Mehi Paravariyo ||
The Lord Himself wielded His Power and entered the world.

ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰਿ ਆਕਾਰੁ ਜੋਤਿ ਜਗ ਮੰਡਲਿ ਕਰਿਯਉ ॥
Nirankaar Aakaar Joth Jag Manddal Kariyo ||
The Formless Lord took form, and with His Light He illuminated the realms of the world.

– 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||

– ਸੁਣੀ ਪੁਕਾਰਿ ਦਾਤਾਰ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਗ ਮਾਹਿ ਪਠਾਇਆ। (Bhai Gurdas, Vaar 1, Pauri 23, page 1).
Sunee Pukaari Daatar Prabhu Guru Naanak Jag Maahi Pathhaaiaa |
The benefactor Lord listened to the cries (of humanity) and sent Guru Nanak to this world.
………………….

ਕਲਿ ਤਾਰਣ ਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਆਇਆ ॥੨੩॥
Kali Taarani Guru Naanaku Aaiaa ||23 ||
Guru Nanak came to redeem the kaliyug.

The above Gurbani quotes point out that Guru Nanak Sahib enjoyed the grace of Waheguru. As a result he was himself a Surgun Saroop of God/Waheguru (Ik-Mik/ Sito-Sita) . Guru Nam Sahib describes this awastha in Jap Ji Sahib:-

ਕਰਮ ਖੰਡ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਜੋਰੁ ॥ ਤਿਥੈ ਹੋਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ਹੋਰੁ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-3).
Karam Khandd Kee Baanee Jor || Thithhai Hor N Koee Hor ||
In the realm of karma, the Word is Power.. No one else dwells there,

ਤਿਥੈ ਜੋਧ ਮਹਾਬਲ ਸੂਰ ॥ ਤਿਨ ਮਹਿ ਰਾਮੁ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰ ॥
Thithhai Jodhh Mehaabal Soor || Thin Mehi Raam Rehiaa Bharapoor ||
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 ॥
Thithhai Seetho Seethaa Mehimaa Maahi || Thaa Kae Roop N Kathhanae Jaahi ||
Myriads of Sitas are there, cool and calm in their majestic glory. Their beauty cannot be described.

ਨਾ ਓਹਿ ਮਰਹਿ ਨ ਠਾਗੇ ਜਾਹਿ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਕੈ ਰਾਮੁ ਵਸੈ ਮਨ ਮਾਹਿ ॥
Naa Ouhi Marehi N Thaagae Jaahi || Jin Kai Raam Vasai Man Maahi ||
Neither death nor deception comes to those, Within whose minds the Lord abides.

ਤਿਥੈ ਭਗਤ ਵਸਹਿ ਕੇ ਲੋਅ ॥ ਕਰਹਿ ਅਨੰਦੁ ਸਚਾ ਮਨਿ ਸੋਇ ॥
Thithhai Bhagath Vasehi Kae Loa || Karehi Anandh Sachaa Man Soe ||
The devotees of many worlds dwell there. They celebrate; their minds are imbued with the True Lord.

ਸਚ ਖੰਡਿ ਵਸੈ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ॥ ਕਰਿ ਕਰਿ ਵੇਖੈ ਨਦਰਿ ਨਿਹਾਲ ॥
Sach Khandd Vasai Nirankaar || Kar Kar Vaekhai Nadhar Nihaal ||
In the realm of Truth, the Formless Lord abides.
Having created the creation, He watches over it. By His Glance of Grace, He bestows happiness.

As a result, Guru Nanak was so versatile to address the various aspects of Universal Humanity, such as:-

A. Spiritual Guidance

1. ਪਵਨ ਅਰੰਭੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਮਤਿ ਵੇਲਾ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 943-1).
Pavan Aranbh Sathigur Math Vaelaa ||
From the air came the beginning. This is the age of the True Guru’s Teachings..
ਸਬਦੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਧੁਨਿ ਚੇਲਾ ॥
Sabadh Guroo Surath Dhhun Chaelaa ||
The Shabad is the Guru, upon whom I lovingly focus my consciousness; I am the chaylaa, the disciple.
2. ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ॥(Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-10).
Sikhee Sikhiaa Gur Veechaar ||
Contemplating the Guru, I have been taught these teachings;
3. ਗੁਰਾ ਇਕ ਦੇਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥ (Japji, GGS. 2)
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||
4.. ਸਬਦੁ ਬੀਚਾਰਿ ਭਏ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkalee, M. 1, GGS 904).
sabadh beechaar bheae nirankaaree ||
Contemplating the Shabad, we become Nirankaari – we come to belong to the Formless Lord God.
ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਜਾਗੇ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਪਰਹਾਰੀ ॥
guramath jaagae dhuramath parehaaree ||
awakening to the Guru’s Teachings, evil-mindedness is taken away.

B. Spiritual Path (Marg) and Satsangat

1.ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲਾ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਉ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 2-5).
Anmrith Vaelaa Sach Naao Vaddiaaee Veechaar ||
In the Amrit Vaylaa, the ambrosial hours before dawn, chant the True Name, and contemplate His Glorious Greatness.
ਕਰਮੀ ਆਵੈ ਕਪੜਾ ਨਦਰੀ ਮੋਖੁ ਦੁਆਰੁ ॥
Karamee Aavai Kaparraa Nadharee Mokh Dhuaar ||
By the karma of past actions, the robe of this physical body is obtained. By His Grace, the Gate of Liberation is found.
ਨਾਨਕ ਏਵੈ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਸਭੁ ਆਪੇ ਸਚਿਆਰੁ ॥੪॥
Naanak Eaevai Jaaneeai Sabh Aapae Sachiaar ||4||
O Nanak, know this well: the True One Himself is All. ||4||
2. ਮਨਿ ਜੀਤੈ ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤੁ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 6-17).
Man Jeethai Jag Jeeth ||
Conquer your own mind, and conquer the world.
3. ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਕੈਸੀ ਜਾਣੀਐ ॥ (Raag Sriraag, M. 1, GGS 72).
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.

C. Economic needs and prosperity

1. ਕੀਤਾ ਲੋੜੀਐ ਕੰਮੁ ਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਪਹਿ ਆਖੀਐ ॥ (Raag Sri Rag M. 1, GGS 91)
keethaa lorreeai kanm s har pehi aakheeai || Whatever work you wish to accomplish-tell it to the Lord
ਕਾਰਜੁ ਦੇਇ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਖੀਐ ॥
kaaraj dhaee savaar sathigur sach saakheeai ||
He will resolve your affairs; the True Guru gives His Guarantee of Truth.
2. . ਸਾਈ ਵਸਤੁ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਹੋਈ ਜਿਸੁ ਸੇਤੀ ਮਨੁ ਲਾਇਆ II (Raag Soohee, M. 1, GGS 764).
saaee vasath paraapath hoee jis saethee man laaeiaa ||
I have obtained that thing, which my mind desired.
3. ਘਾਲਿ ਖਾਇ ਕਿਛੁ ਹਥਹੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ (Raag Saran, M. 1, GGS 1245).
ghaal khaae kishh hathhahu dhaee ||
One who works for what he eats, and gives some of what he has.
ਨਾਨਕ ਰਾਹੁ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਸੇਇ ॥੧॥
naanak raahu pashhaanehi saee ||1||
– O Nanak, he knows the Path. ||1||

D. Personality Development

1. ਮਿਠਤੁ ਨੀਵੀ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਗੁਣ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ਤਤੁ ॥ ( Raag Aasaa, M. 1, GGS 470).
mithath neevee naanakaa gun changiaaeeaa thath ||
Sweetness and humility, O Nanak, are the essence of virtue and goodness.
2. ਨਾਨਕ ਫਿਕੈ ਬੋਲਿਐ ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਫਿਕਾ ਹੋਇ ॥ ( Raag Aasaa, M. 1, GGS 473).
naanak fikai boliai than man fikaa hoe ||
O Nanak, speaking insipid words, the body and mind become insipid.
3. ਕੂੜ ਨਿਖੁਟੇ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਓੜਕਿ ਸਚਿ ਰਹੀ ॥੨॥ (Raag Raamkalee M. 1, GGS 953).
koorr nikhuttae naanakaa ourrak sach rehee ||2||
Falsehood will come to an end, O Nanak, and Truth will prevail in the end. ||2||

4. ਫਿਟੁ ਇਵੇਹਾ ਜੀਵਿਆ ਜਿਤੁ ਖਾਇ ਵਧਾਇਆ ਪੇਟੁ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਵਿਣੁ ਸਭੋ ਦੁਸਮਨੁ ਹੇਤੁ ॥੨॥ (Raag Suhi M. 1, GGS. 790-18).
Fitt Eivaehaa Jeeviaa Jith Khaae Vadhhaaeiaa Paett ||

Cursed is that life, in which one only eats to fill his belly. O Nanak, without the True Name, all one’s friends turn to enemies. ||2||

5. ਮੰਦਾ ਕਿਸੈ ਨ ਆਖੀਐ ਪੜਿ ਅਖਰੁ ਏਹੋ ਬੁਝੀਐ ॥ ਮੂਰਖੈ ਨਾਲਿ ਨ ਲੁਝੀਐ ॥੧੯॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, 473-13).
Mandhaa Kisai N Aakheeai Parr Akhar Eaeho Bujheeai ||
Do not call anyone bad; read these words, and understand. Don’t argue with fools. ||19||

E. Social Reforms

1. ਸੋ ਕਿਉ ਮੰਦਾ ਆਖੀਐ ਜਿਤੁ ਜੰਮਹਿ ਰਾਜਾਨ ॥ ((Rag Asaasa M. 1, GGS 473-9).
So Kio Mandhaa Aakheeai Jith Janmehi Raajaan ||
So why call her bad? From her, kings are born.
ਭੰਡਹੁ ਹੀ ਭੰਡੁ ਊਪਜੈ ਭੰਡੈ ਬਾਝੁ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
bhanddahu hee bhandd oopajai bhanddai baajh n koe |
From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be no one at all.
ਨਾਨਕ ਭੰਡੈ ਬਾਹਰਾ ਏਕੋ ਸਚਾ ਸੋਇ ॥
naanak bhanddai baaharaa eaeko sachaa soe ||
O Nanak, only the True Lord is without a woman
2. ਹਕੁ ਪਰਾਇਆ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਉਸੁ ਸੂਅਰ ਉਸੁ ਗਾਇ ॥ (Raag Maajh M. 1, GGS. 141-1).
Hak Paraaeiaa Naanakaa Ous Sooar Ous Gaae ||
To take what rightfully belongs to another, is like a Muslim eating pork, or a Hindu eating beef.
3. ਜੇ ਲੋੜਹਿ ਚੰਗਾ ਆਪਣਾ ਕਰਿ ਪੁੰਨਹੁ ਨੀਚੁ ਸਦਾਈਐ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 465-16).
Jae Lorrehi Changaa Aapanaa Kar Punnahu Neech Sadhaaeeai ||
If you yearn for goodness, then perform good deeds and feel humble.
4. ਬਾਬਾ ਹੋਰੁ ਖਾਣਾ ਖੁਸੀ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥ (Sri Raag M.1, GGS. 16-13).
Baabaa Hor Khaanaa Khusee Khuaar ||
O Baba, the pleasures of other foods are false.
ਜਿਤੁ ਖਾਧੈ ਤਨੁ ਪੀੜੀਐ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਚਲਹਿ ਵਿਕਾਰ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Jith Khaadhhai Than Peerreeai Man Mehi Chalehi Vikaar ||1|| Rehaao ||
Eating them, the body is ruined, and wickedness and corruption enter into the mind. ||1||Pause||
………..
ਬਾਬਾ ਹੋਰੁ ਪੈਨਣੁ ਖੁਸੀ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥
Baabaa Hor Painan Khusee Khuaar ||
O Baba, the pleasures of other clothes are false.
ਜਿਤੁ ਪੈਧੈ ਤਨੁ ਪੀੜੀਐ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਚਲਹਿ ਵਿਕਾਰ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Jith Paidhhai Than Peerreeai Man Mehi Chalehi Vikaar ||1|| Rehaao ||
Wearing them, the body is ruined, and wickedness and corruption enter into the mind. ||1||Pause||

F. Human Equality

Guru Nanak Sahib promotes Universal brotherhood (presence of God in all of us) and in turn offers scope for peace and prosperity in the world:-
1. ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਹੈ ਸੋਇ ॥ (Raag Dhanasree M. 1, GGS. 663-8).
Sabh Mehi Joth Joth Hai Soe ||
The Divine Light is within everyone; You are that Light.
ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਚਾਨਣਿ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਹੋਇ ॥
This Kai Chaanan Sabh Mehi Chaanan Hoe ||
Yours is that Light which shines within everyone.
2. ਫਕੜ ਜਾਤੀ ਫਕੜੁ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Sri Raag M. 1, GGS. 83-13).
Fakarr Jaathee Fakarr Naao ||
Pride in social status is empty; pride in personal glory is useless.
ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਇਕਾ ਛਾਉ ॥
Sabhanaa Jeeaa Eikaa Shhaao ||
The One Lord gives shade to all beings.

G. Quality Education and Life-style

1. 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.
2. 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||
3. ਸੂਚੇ ਸੇਈ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਜਿਨ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਸੋਇ ॥੨॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 472-10).
Soochae Saeee Naanakaa Jin Man Vasiaa Soe ||2||
Only they are pure, O Nanak, within whose minds the Lord abides. ||2||

H. Scientific realm and Expanse of Universe

ਪਾਤਾਲਾ ਪਾਤਾਲ ਲਖ ਆਗਾਸਾ ਆਗਾਸ ॥ (Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS, 5-2).
Paathaalaa Paathaal Lakh Aagaasaa Aagaas ||
There are nether worlds beneath nether worlds, and hundreds of thousands of heavenly worlds above.
ਓੜਕ ਓੜਕ ਭਾਲਿ ਥਕੇ ਵੇਦ ਕਹਨਿ ਇਕ ਵਾਤ ॥
Ourrak Ourrak Bhaal Thhakae Vaedh Kehan Eik Vaath ||
The Vedas say that you can search and search for them all, until you grow weary.
ਸਹਸ ਅਠਾਰਹ ਕਹਨਿ ਕਤੇਬਾ ਅਸੁਲੂ ਇਕੁ ਧਾਤੁ ॥
Sehas Athaareh Kehan Kathaebaa Asuloo Eik Dhhaath ||
The scriptures say that there are 18,000 worlds, but in reality, there is only One Universe.
ਲੇਖਾ ਹੋਇ ਤ ਲਿਖੀਐ ਲੇਖੈ ਹੋਇ ਵਿਣਾਸੁ ॥
Laekhaa Hoe Th Likheeai Laekhai Hoe Vinaas ||
If you try to write an account of this, you will surely finish yourself before you finish writing it.
ਨਾਨਕ ਵਡਾ ਆਖੀਐ ਆਪੇ ਜਾਣੈ ਆਪੁ ॥੨੨॥
Naanak Vaddaa Aakheeai Aapae Jaanai Aap ||22||
O Nanak, call Him Great! He Himself knows Himself. ||22||

I. Respect for Environment

1.ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਕੁਦਰਤਿ ਵਸਿਆ ॥ (Raag Asa, Guru Nanak, GGS. 469-10).
Balihaaree Kudharath Vasiaa ||
I am a sacrifice to Your almighty creative power which is pervading everywhere.
2. ਪਵਣੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਪਾਣੀ ਪਿਤਾ ਮਾਤਾ ਧਰਤਿ ਮਹਤੁ ॥ ਦਿਵਸੁ ਰਾਤਿ ਦੁਇ ਦਾਈ ਦਾਇਆ ਖੇਲੈ ਸਗਲ ਜਗਤੁ ॥ (Salok Guru Nanak, GGS. 8-10).
Pavan Guroo Paanee Pithaa Maathaa Dhharath Mehath || Dhivas Raath Dhue Dhaaee Dhaaeiaa Khaelai Sagal Jagath ||
Air is the Guru, Water is the Father, and Earth is the Great Mother of all. Day and night are the two nurses, in whose lap all the world is at play.

J. Respect towards different Faiths

ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਹੋਏ ਸਚਿਆਰ ॥ ਪੜਹਿ ਗੁਣਹਿ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਚਾਰ ਵੀਚਾਰ ॥ (Raag Asa, M.1, GGS. 470-8)
Chaarae Vaedh Hoeae Sachiaar || Parrehi Gunehi Thinh Chaar Veechaar ||
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||

When translated in simple words it reads:-
i).Love for God/Waheguru ii). devotional worship with iii). total loss of one’s ego/houmai/duality (abiding in humility iv). The above three steps lead to the final state of attaining Salvation.

K. Against Rituals

– ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਕਿਆ ਟਿਕਾ ਕਿਆ ਤਗੁ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, 467-6).
Nanak sache naam bin kya tikka kya tag?
O Nanak, without the True Name, of what use is the frontal mark of the Hindus, or their sacred thread? ||

L. How to reach the Divine Path?

1. ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਈਐ ਤਾ ਸਹੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਅਉਰੁ ਕੈਸੀ ਚਤੁਰਾਈ ॥ Raag Tilang, M.1 GGS. 722-130.
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?
2. ਭਗਤ ਤੇਰੈ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵਦੇ ਦਰਿ ਸੋਹਨਿ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਗਾਵਦੇ ॥ (Raag Asa, M. 1, GGS. 468-3).
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.
………………………..
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.

Guru Nanak Sahib himself proclaimed the importance of Naam as his only support in the following verse:-

ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Sri Raag, M. 1, GGS 24).
thaeraa eaek naam thaarae sansaar || mai eaehaa aas eaeho aadhhaar ||1|| rehaao ||
Your Name alone, Lord, saves the world. This is my hope; this is my support. ||1||Pause||

Panacea of all ills – Repeated twice by Guru Nanak Sahib:-

1. ਸਾਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਲਾਗੈ ਭੂਖ ॥ ਤਿਤੁ ਭੂਖੈ ਖਾਇ ਚਲੀਅਹਿ ਦੂਖ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 349-7).
Saachae Naam Kee Laagai Bhookh || Thith Bhookhai Khaae Chaleeahi Dhookh ||1||
If someone feels hunger for the True Name. Then that hunger shall consume his pains. ||1||

2. ਸਾਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਲਾਗੈ ਭੂਖ ॥ ਉਤੁ ਭੂਖੈ ਖਾਇ ਚਲੀਅਹਿ ਦੂਖ ॥੧॥ ( Sodar Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 9-16).
Saachae Naam Kee Laagai Bhookh || Outh Bhookhai Khaae Chaleeahi Dhookh ||1||
If someone feels hunger for the True Name,That hunger shall consume his pain. ||1||

ਸੋ ਕਿਉ ਵਿਸਰੈ ਮੇਰੀ ਮਾਇ ॥ ਸਾਚਾ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸਾਚੈ ਨਾਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
So Kio Visarai Maeree Maae || Saachaa Saahib Saachai Naae ||1|| Rehaao ||
How can I forget Him, O my mother? True is the Master, True is His Name. ||1||Pause||

So for a Sikh, it is made clear in the Gurbani to accept that “ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕਾ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਸਭ ਤੇ ਊਚਾii” (prabh kaa simaran sabh thae oochaa ).(Raag Gauri, M. 5, GGS. 263) and ਨਾਨਕ ਕੈ ਘਰਿ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮੁ ॥੪॥੪॥ -“naanak kai ghar kaeval naam ||4||4||”- (Raag Bhaira-o, M. 5, GGS. 1136).
Note: All translations are from the Internet

With Waheguru’s blessings
Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com
——————————————————————————————————————
*Towards 550th Parkash Divas of Guru Nanak Sahib. Excerpts to be presented in Wellington Gurduara Sahib on Sunday, 13th October 2019.

This is just a humble attempt to elaborate on the followings Sabds which were close to my heart from my childhood while being a student of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa Higher Secondary School, Karol Bagh/Dev Nagar, New Delhi. These has ever stood with me in spirit in guiding and providing adequate strength in life till date.

ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰਾ ਰਾਖਾ ਸਭਨੀ ਥਾਈ ਤਾ ਭਉ ਕੇਹਾ ਕਾੜਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੧॥ – ‘Toon mera rakha sabni thaien…..’ Could this be a reality borne simple lesson ingrained on one’s mind in early childhood as an imprint to guide in rest of one’s life out of simple grace/kirpa/gurparsad of Waheguru?

In order to stay protected under all circumstances, one needs to have Almighty on one’s side as a composite of father, mother, brother and other relatives. When Waheguru is in the Driving Seat of one’s life, a personal relationship with Almighty develops with a loss of one’s houmai/ego bring total trust and faith in Divine Will operating in the Universe. This leads to an awastha of Sehaj being engrossed in Waheguru Simran and forgetting of worldly worries.

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

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

ਤੁਮਰੀ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਤੇ ਤੁਧੁ ਪਛਾਣਾ ॥ ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰੀ ਓਟ ਤੂੰਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਾਣਾ ॥
Thumaree Kirapaa Thae Thudhh Pashhaanaa || Thoon Maeree Outt Thoonhai Maeraa Maanaa ||
By Your Grace, I recognize You. You are my Shelter, and You are my Honor.

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

ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਸਭਿ ਤੁਧੁ ਉਪਾਏ ॥ ਜਿਤੁ ਜਿਤੁ ਭਾਣਾ ਤਿਤੁ ਤਿਤੁ ਲਾਏ ॥
Jeea Janth Sabh Thudhh Oupaaeae || Jith Jith Bhaanaa Thith Thith Laaeae ||
You have created all beings and creatures. As it pleases You, You assign tasks to one and all.

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

ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਇ ਮਹਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਇ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਨੁ ਸੀਤਲਾਇਆ ॥
Naam Dhhiaae Mehaa Sukh Paaeiaa || Har Gun Gaae Maeraa Man Seethalaaeiaa ||
Meditating on the Naam, I have found great peace. Singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, my mind is cooled and soothed.

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

On taking the sanctuary of Waheguru, the awareness of strength of Almighty becomes handy to guide through the battlefield of life with a promise – “ਬਿਰਥਾ ਕੋਇ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਜਿ ਆਵੈ ਤੁਧੁ ਆਹਿ “॥੯॥ (Divine Promise):-

ਤਿਥੈ ਤੂ ਸਮਰਥੁ ਜਿਥੈ ਕੋਇ ਨਾਹਿ ॥ ਓਥੈ ਤੇਰੀ ਰਖ ਅਗਨੀ ਉਦਰ ਮਾਹਿ ॥ (Raag Raamkali, M. 5, GGS. 962-1).
Thithhai Thoo Samarathh Jithhai Koe Naahi || Outhhai Thaeree Rakh Aganee Oudhar Maahi ||
Where You are, Almighty Lord, there is no one else.There, in the fire of the mother’s womb, You protected us.

ਸੁਣਿ ਕੈ ਜਮ ਕੇ ਦੂਤ ਨਾਇ ਤੇਰੈ ਛਡਿ ਜਾਹਿ ॥ ਭਉਜਲੁ ਬਿਖਮੁ ਅਸਗਾਹੁ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਪਾਰਿ ਪਾਹਿ ॥
Sun Kai Jam Kae Dhooth Naae Thaerai Shhadd Jaahi || Bhoujal Bikham Asagaahu Gur Sabadhee Paar Paahi ||
Hearing Your Name, the Messenger of Death runs away. The terrifying, treacherous, impassible world-ocean is crossed over, through the Word of the Guru’s Shabad.

ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਲਗੀ ਪਿਆਸ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸੇਇ ਖਾਹਿ ॥ ਕਲਿ ਮਹਿ ਏਹੋ ਪੁੰਨੁ ਗੁਣ ਗੋਵਿੰਦ ਗਾਹਿ ॥
Jin Ko Lagee Piaas Anmrith Saee Khaahi || Kal Mehi Eaeho Punn Gun Govindh Gaahi ||
Those who feel thirst for You, take in Your Ambrosial Nectar. This is the only act of goodness in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, to sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord of the Universe.

ਸਭਸੈ ਨੋ ਕਿਰਪਾਲੁ ਸਮ੍ਹ੍ਹਾਲੇ ਸਾਹਿ ਸਾਹਿ ॥ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਕੋਇ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਜਿ ਆਵੈ ਤੁਧੁ ਆਹਿ ॥੯॥ (Divine Promise)
Sabhasai No Kirapaal Samhaalae Saahi Saahi || Birathhaa Koe N Jaae J Aavai Thudhh Aahi ||9||
He is Merciful to all; He sustains us with each and every breath. Those who come to You with love and faith are never turned away empty-handed. ||9||

Closeness to Almighty develops in one a high degree of humbleness and a sense of gratitude for Divine guidance through life to acknowledge the following while being immerssed in Waheguru’s name:-

ਤੇਰਾ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਤੋ ਨਾਹੀ ਮੈਨੋ ਜੋਗੁ ਕੀਤੋਈ ॥ (Mundaavani M. 5, GGS. 1429-14).
Thaeraa Keethaa Jaatho Naahee Maino Jog Keethoee ||
I have not appreciated what You have done for me, Lord; only You can make me worthy.

ਮੈ ਨਿਰਗੁਣਿਆਰੇ ਕੋ ਗੁਣੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਆਪੇ ਤਰਸੁ ਪਇਓਈ ॥
Mai Niraguniaarae Ko Gun Naahee Aapae Tharas Paeiouee ||
I am unworthy – I have no worth or virtues at all. You have taken pity on me.

ਤਰਸੁ ਪਇਆ ਮਿਹਰਾਮਤਿ ਹੋਈ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਸਜਣੁ ਮਿਲਿਆ ॥
Tharas Paeiaa Miharaamath Hoee Sathigur Sajan Miliaa ||
You took pity on me, and blessed me with Your Mercy, and I have met the True Guru, my Friend.

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਤਾਂ ਜੀਵਾਂ ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਥੀਵੈ ਹਰਿਆ ॥੧॥
Naanak Naam Milai Thaan Jeevaan Than Man Thheevai Hariaa ||1||
O Nanak, if I am blessed with the Naam, I live, and my body and mind blossom forth. ||1||

The next stage brings one to ‘ਥਿਰੁ ਘਰਿ ਬੈਸਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਪਿਆਰੇ ॥’ with a rise in status as ‘ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਪਿਆਰੇ’ and
with a promise – ‘ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਤੁਮਰੇ ਕਾਜ ਸਵਾਰੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥’ by taking away all troubles and worries as a proctector:-

ਥਿਰੁ ਘਰਿ ਬੈਸਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਪਿਆਰੇ ॥ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਤੁਮਰੇ ਕਾਜ ਸਵਾਰੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 201-6).
Thhir Ghar Baisahu Har Jan Piaarae || Sathigur Thumarae Kaaj Savaarae ||1|| Rehaao ||
Remain steady in the home of your own self, O beloved servant of the Lord. The True Guru shall resolve all your affairs. ||1||Pause||

ਦੁਸਟ ਦੂਤ ਪਰਮੇਸਰਿ ਮਾਰੇ ॥ ਜਨ ਕੀ ਪੈਜ ਰਖੀ ਕਰਤਾਰੇ ॥੧॥
Dhusatt Dhooth Paramaesar Maarae || Jan Kee Paij Rakhee Karathaarae ||1||
The Transcendent Lord has struck down the wicked and the evil. The Creator has preserved the honor of His servant. ||1||

ਬਾਦਿਸਾਹ ਸਾਹ ਸਭ ਵਸਿ ਕਰਿ ਦੀਨੇ ॥ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮ ਮਹਾ ਰਸ ਪੀਨੇ ॥੨॥
Baadhisaah Saah Sabh Vas Kar Dheenae || Anmrith Naam Mehaa Ras Peenae ||2||
The kings and emperors are all under his power; He drinks deeply of the most sublime essence of the Ambrosial Naam. ||2||

ਨਿਰਭਉ ਹੋਇ ਭਜਹੁ ਭਗਵਾਨ ॥ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਕੀਨੋ ਦਾਨੁ ॥੩॥
Nirabho Hoe Bhajahu Bhagavaan || Saadhhasangath Mil Keeno Dhaan ||3||
Meditate fearlessly on the Lord God. Joining the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, this gift is given. ||3||

ਸਰਣਿ ਪਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਅੰਤਰਜਾਮੀ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਓਟ ਪਕਰੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਸੁਆਮੀ ॥੪॥੧੦੮॥
Saran Parae Prabh Antharajaamee || Naanak Outt Pakaree Prabh Suaamee ||4||108||
Nanak has entered the Sanctuary of God, the Inner-knower, the Searcher of hearts He grasps the Support of God, his Lord and Master. ||4||108||

The overall message of the above Sabds is captured in the following Sabd in the following central idea – ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਨਿਤ ਧਿਆਈ…….ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਦਾਰਥੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਮਾਂਗੈ :-

ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਨਿਤ ਧਿਆਈ ॥ ਸੰਗੀ ਸਾਥੀ ਸਗਲ ਤਰਾਂਈ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa M. 5, GGS. 394-2).
Har Kaa Naam Ridhai Nith Dhhiaaee || Sangee Saathhee Sagal Tharaanee ||1||
Meditate continually on the Name of the Lord within your heart. Thus you shall save all your companions and associates. ||1||

ਗੁਰੁ ਮੇਰੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਦਾ ਹੈ ਨਾਲੇ ॥ ਸਿਮਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਿ ਤਿਸੁ ਸਦਾ ਸਮ੍ਹ੍ਹਾਲੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Gur Maerai Sang Sadhaa Hai Naalae || Simar Simar This Sadhaa Samhaalae ||1|| Rehaao ||
My Guru is always with me, near at hand. Meditating, meditating in remembrance on Him, I cherish Him forever. ||1||Pause||

ਤੇਰਾ ਕੀਆ ਮੀਠਾ ਲਾਗੈ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਦਾਰਥੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਮਾਂਗੈ ॥੨॥੪੨॥੯੩॥
Thaeraa Keeaa Meethaa Laagai || Har Naam Padhaarathh Naanak Maangai ||2||42||93||
Your actions seem so sweet to me.
Nanak begs for the treasure of the Naam, the Name of the Lord. ||2||42||93||

‘Gurbani eis jag mein channan’ ,  ‘Gurmat Saachi Saacha Vichaar’ and ‘Dhur Ki Bani aaiee tin sagali chint mittaiee’

With Waheguru’s blessings.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

In order to understand the concept of Dhur Ki Bani, one needs to understand an other Gurmat concept of ‘Dhur Karam’ as both the concepts are interrelated.

‘Dhur Karam‘ in Gurbani means one being short-listed in the run for unstoppable growth on spiritual path to be branded as ‘VADBHAGI’..

ਧੁਰਿ ਕਰਮਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਤੁਧੁ ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਸਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਲਾਗੇ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 917-13).
Dhhur Karam Paaeiaa Thudhh Jin Ko S Naam Har Kai Laagae ||
Those who have such pre-ordained destiny are attached to the Lord’s Name.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਤਹ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਆ ਤਿਤੁ ਘਰਿ ਅਨਹਦ ਵਾਜੇ ॥੫॥
Kehai Naanak Theh Sukh Hoaa Thith Ghar Anehadh Vaajae ||5||
Says Nanak, they are at peace, and the unstruck sound current vibrates within their homes. ||5||

‘ ਸਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਲਾਗੇ’ is an awastha (state) beyond description in Spiritual sense as Guru Arjan Dev Ji says in Sukhmani Sahib. It attracts Grace/Kirpa to make a person immaculately pure – free from homai/ego and dubida resulting in Divine Sohjee/Budh-bebik:-

– ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਜਿਸ ਕਉ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੀਆ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੋ ਜਨੁ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਥੀਆ ॥੭॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 283-12).
Kar Kirapaa Jis Ko Naam Dheeaa || Naanak So Jan Niramal Thheeaa ||7||
One whom the Lord, in His Grace, blesses with His Name – O Nanak, that person becomes immaculate and pure. ||7||

Naam makes all the needed difference to draw one closer to Waheguru:-

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

The outcome of obtaining Naam leads to divine connectivity i. e. Sohjee/Budh-bebik to further Gurparsad that makes the person know his/her worth thus losing his/her ego leading to a state of blissfulness – crossing Dharam Khand, Gian Khand, Saram Khand, Karam Khand and reaching the Sach Khand.

ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਆਪਨ ਆਪੁ ਸੁਝੈ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਜਾਨਹੁ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਬੁਝੈ ॥
Gur Prasaadh Aapan Aap Sujhai || This Kee Jaanahu Thrisanaa Bujhai ||
By Guru’s Grace, one understands himself; Know that then, his thirst is quenched..

Arrival in the Sach Khand awastha fills such a person with deep Devotion of Waheguru thus culminating in flow of Amrit Bani and or its essence to lead a life enjoying divine Nadr/Grace:-

ਭਾਂਡਾ ਭਾਉ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਤਿਤੁ ਢਾਲਿ ॥ ਘੜੀਐ ਸਬਦੁ ਸਚੀ ਟਕਸਾਲ ॥(Guru Nanak, Jap Ji Sahib, GGS. 8-9).
Bhaanddaa Bhaao Anmrith Thith Dtaal || Gharreeai Sabadh Sachee Ttakasaal ||
In the crucible of love, melt the Nectar of the Name, And mint the True Coin of the Shabad, the Word of God.

ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰਮੁ ਤਿਨ ਕਾਰ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਦਰੀ ਨਦਰਿ ਨਿਹਾਲ ॥੩੮॥
Jin Ko Nadhar Karam Thin Kaar || Naanak Nadharee Nadhar Nihaal ||38||
Such is the karma of those upon whom He has cast His Glance of Grace. O Nanak, the Merciful Lord, by His Grace, uplifts and exalts them. ||38||

On enjoying ‘Dhur Karam’, Gurparsad, Nadr/Grace/Kirpa are tools that start working together till one becomes “Ik-mick/Sito-Sita as experienced by Guru Teg Bhadhur Ji (Pani sang pani) and Kabir Ji (Ram Kabira ek bhaihe hain).

Dhur Ki Bani

My personal belief in ‘Dhur Ki Bani’ starts with the following pankti in Gurbani when Guru Nanak pronounces the following:-

ਜੈਸੀ ਮੈ ਆਵੈ ਖਸਮ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਤੈਸੜਾ ਕਰੀ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਵੇ ਲਾਲੋ ॥ (Raag Tilang M. 1, GGS. 722-16).
Jaisee Mai Aavai Khasam Kee Baanee Thaisarraa Karee Giaan Vae Laalo ||
As the Word of the Forgiving Lord comes to me, so do I express it, O Lalo.

Furthermore, in order to accept that the Gurbani is ‘Dhur Ki Bani’, one has to first accept that the Gurus were truthful beings and whatever they said was/is nothing but Truth (ਸੰਤਨ ਕੀ ਸੁਣਿ ਸਾਚੀ ਸਾਖੀ॥ ਸੋ ਬੋਲਹਿ ਜੋ ਪੇਖਹਿ ਆਖੀ as given below. Unless one acknowledges this truth one cannot make progress on this important concept in Sikhi.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji first describes the abiding strength of his Truthful-Sahib (Lord/Waheguru) in terms of ‘ਅਗਮ ਅਗੋਚਰੁ ਸਚੁ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਮੇਰਾ’ and ‘ਨਾਨਕ ਕਾ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ’. And then Guru Ji acknowledges- “ਨਾਨਕੁ ਬੋਲੈ ਬੋਲਾਇਆ ਤੇਰਾ”. Nowhere Guru Ji places himself before Waheguru.

ਸੰਤਨ ਕੀ ਸੁਣਿ ਸਾਚੀ ਸਾਖੀ ॥ਸੋ ਬੋਲਹਿ ਜੋ ਪੇਖਹਿ ਆਖੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 894-8).
Santhan Kee Sun Saachee Saakhee ||So Bolehi Jo Paekhehi Aakhee ||
Listen to the true story of the Saints. They speak only of what they see with their eyes.

Guru Ram Das Ji has the following to add:-

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਜਾਣਹੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਤਾ ਆਪਿ ਮੁਹਹੁ ਕਢਾਏ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 4, GGS. 308-5).
Sathigur Kee Baanee Sath Sath Kar Jaanahu Gurasikhahu Har Karathaa Aap Muhahu Kadtaaeae ||
O GurSikhs, know that the Bani, the Word of the True Guru, is true, absolutely true. The Creator Lord Himself causes the Guru to chant it.

ਧੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਆਈ ॥ ਤਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਚਿੰਤ ਮਿਟਾਈ ॥(Raag Sorath M. 5, GGS. 628-2)
Dhhur Kee Baanee Aaee ||Thin Sagalee Chinth Mittaaee ||
The Bani of His Word emanated from the Primal Lord. It eradicates all anxiety.

ਦਇਆਲ ਪੁਰਖ ਮਿਹਰਵਾਨਾ ॥ਹਰਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੁ ਵਖਾਨਾ ॥੨॥੧੩॥੭੭॥
Dhaeiaal Purakh Miharavaanaa ||Har Naanak Saach Vakhaanaa ||2||13||77||
The Lord is merciful, kind and compassionate.And enlightener of Truths ||2||13||77||

– ਇਕਿ ਭਰਮੇ ਇਕਿ ਭਗਤੀ ਲਾਏ ॥ ਅਪਣਾ ਕੀਆ ਆਪਿ ਜਣਾਏ ॥੩॥(Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 894-7).
Eik Bharamae Eik Bhagathee Laaeae || Apanaa Keeaa Aap Janaaeae ||3||
Some wander around, while others are linked to His devotional worship. He Himself makes Himself known. ||3||

– ਸੇਵਕੁ ਅਪਨੀ ਲਾਇਓ ਸੇਵ ॥੩॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 5, GGS. 898-18).
Saevak Apanee Laaeiou Saev ||3||
He links His servant to His service. ||3||

The Gurus first as individuals (receivers) received the Brahm Gyan from God (transmitter) through a process of faith and devotion. Later, when the Guru acquired Brahm Gyan as Sabd- Guru, then they became one with God. So no difference between God and Guru i.e disappearance of two distinct entities. This is also supported in Gurbani:-

ਖਟੁ ਮਟੁ ਦੇਹੀ ਮਨੁ ਬੈਰਾਗੀ ॥ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਧੁਨਿ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਜਾਗੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 1, GGS. 904)
khatt matt dhaehee man bairaagee ||surath sabadh dhhun anthar jaagee ||
In the six -ringed abbey of the human body is the seat of the detached mind. The love for the Name’s meditation has awakened within it.

ਵਾਜੈ ਅਨਹਦੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਨੁ ਲੀਣਾ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਬਚਨੀ ਸਚਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਪਤੀਣਾ ॥੧॥
vaajai anehadh maeraa man leenaa ||gur bachanee sach naam patheenaa ||1||
The celestial strain rings within me and my soul is absorbed therein. By Guru’s instruction, my soul is pleased with the True Name.

ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਰਾਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਈਐ ॥ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਮੀਠਾ ਲਾਗੈ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਸਮਾਈਐ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
praanee raam bhagath sukh paaeeai ||guramukh har har meethaa laagai har har naam samaaeeai ||1|| rehaao ||
O mortal, it si through the Lord’s devotional service that peace is procured. By Guru’s grace, the Lord Master seems sweet and in the Lord Master’s name, the mortal merges.Pause.

ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹੁ ਬਿਵਰਜਿ ਸਮਾਏ ॥ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਭੇਟੈ ਮੇਲਿ ਮਿਲਾਏ ॥
maaeiaa mohu bivaraj samaaeae ||sathigur bhaettai mael milaaeae ||
Banishing the love of worldly valuables, one merges in the Lord and meeting with the True Guru, he unitest in His union.

ਨਾਮੁ ਰਤਨੁ ਨਿਰਮੋਲਕੁ ਹੀਰਾ ॥ ਤਿਤੁ ਰਾਤਾ ਮੇਰਾ ਮਨੁ ਧੀਰਾ ॥੨॥
naam rathan niramolak heeraa ||thith raathaa maeraa man dhheeraa ||2||
The Lord’s name is an invaluable jewel and emerald ; Imbued with that my mind is rendered fortitudious.

ਹਉਮੈ ਮਮਤਾ ਰੋਗੁ ਨ ਲਾਗੈ ॥ ਰਾਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਜਮ ਕਾ ਭਉ ਭਾਗੈ ॥
houmai mamathaa rog n laagai ||raam bhagath jam kaa bho bhaagai ||
By the Lord’s devotion, the mortal is afflicted not withthe ailment of ego and self-hood and his fear of death flees.

ਜਮੁ ਜੰਦਾਰੁ ਨ ਲਾਗੈ ਮੋਹਿ ॥ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਹਰਿ ਸੋਹਿ ॥੩॥
jam jandhaar n laagai mohi ||niramal naam ridhai har sohi ||3||
Death’s courier, the enemy of life, touches me not, as the God’s Immaculate Name sparkles within my mind.

ਸਬਦੁ ਬੀਚਾਰਿ ਭਏ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੀ ॥ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਜਾਗੇ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਪਰਹਾਰੀ ॥
sabadh beechaar bheae nirankaaree ||guramath jaagae dhuramath parehaaree ||
Reflecting on the Lord’s Name, one comes to belong to the Formless Lord.
Awakening to the Guru’s instruction, one’s evil -intellect is erased.

ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਜਾਗਿ ਰਹੇ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥ ਜੀਵਨ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਗਤਿ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਪਾਈ ॥੪॥
anadhin jaag rehae liv laaee ||jeevan mukath gath anthar paaee ||4||
By remaining wakeful night and day, and professing love for the Lord, he is emancipated in life and finds this state from within him.

ਅਲਿਪਤ ਗੁਫਾ ਮਹਿ ਰਹਹਿ ਨਿਰਾਰੇ ॥ ਤਸਕਰ ਪੰਚ ਸਬਦਿ ਸੰਘਾਰੇ ॥
alipath gufaa mehi rehehi niraarae ||thasakar panch sabadh sanghaarae ||
I live detached in the secluded body-cave. The five thieves, I have salin with the Lord’s Name.

ਪਰ ਘਰ ਜਾਇ ਨ ਮਨੁ ਡੋਲਾਏ ॥ ਸਹਜ ਨਿਰੰਤਰਿ ਰਹਉ ਸਮਾਏ ॥੫॥
par ghar jaae n man ddolaaeae ||sehaj niranthar reho samaaeae ||5||
My soul visits not another’s house, nor does it wabble now. I now remain continually absorbed in God.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਗਿ ਰਹੇ ਅਉਧੂਤਾ ॥ ਸਦ ਬੈਰਾਗੀ ਤਤੁ ਪਰੋਤਾ ॥
guramukh jaag rehae aoudhhoothaa ||sadh bairaagee thath parothaa ||
By Guru’s grace, I remain wakeful, immaculate, ever detached and weaved into quintessence.

ਜਗੁ ਸੂਤਾ ਮਰਿ ਆਵੈ ਜਾਇ ॥ ਬਿਨੁ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦ ਨ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਇ ॥੬॥
jag soothaa mar aavai jaae ||bin gur sabadh n sojhee paae ||6||
The world is asleep, it dies and continues coming and going. Without the Guru’s instruction, it obtains not understading.

ਅਨਹਦ ਸਬਦੁ ਵਜੈ ਦਿਨੁ ਰਾਤੀ ॥ ਅਵਿਗਤ ਕੀ ਗਤਿ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਤੀ ॥
anehadh sabadh vajai dhin raathee ||avigath kee gath guramukh jaathee |
Day and night, the Divien music resounds within him, who, by Guru’s grace, knows the wondrous state of the Deathless Lord.

ਤਉ ਜਾਨੀ ਜਾ ਸਬਦਿ ਪਛਾਨੀ ॥ ਏਕੋ ਰਵਿ ਰਹਿਆ ਨਿਰਬਾਨੀ ॥੭॥
tho jaanee jaa sabadh pashhaanee ||eaeko rav rehiaa nirabaanee ||7||
When one knows the Name, then realises he the One Detached Lord, pervading all.

ਸੁੰਨ ਸਮਾਧਿ ਸਹਜਿ ਮਨੁ ਰਾਤਾ ॥ ਤਜਿ ਹਉ ਲੋਭਾ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਤਾ ॥
sunn samaadhh sehaj man raathaa ||thaj ho lobhaa eaeko jaathaa |I
My mind is easily absorbed in seedless trance and forsaking self-conceit and greed, I now know but One Lord.

ਗੁਰ ਚੇਲੇ ਅਪਨਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੂਜਾ ਮੇਟਿ ਸਮਾਨਿਆ ॥੮॥੩॥
gur chaelae apanaa man maaniaa ||naanak dhoojaa maett samaaniaa ||8||3||
When the disciple’s own soul accepts the lead of the Guru, then eradicating his duality, he merges in the Lord, O Nanak.

The above Sabd clearly spells out the process of merger with God to be in position to receive and appreciate ‘Dhur Ki Bani’. It opens door for all of us to achieve merger guided by the examples of Gurus, Bhaghats, Bhatts and others who find place in the Guru Granth Sahib.

Guru Nanak Sahib further identifies in the following Sabd those who can or have access to ‘Dhur Ki Bani’ – Dhur here is Waheguru and Dhur Ki Bani is Brahmgian and not just a geet (ref. Kabir Ji).

ਸੁਣਿ ਵਡਾ ਆਖੈ ਸਭ ਕੋਈ ॥ ਕੇਵਡੁ ਵਡਾ ਡੀਠਾ ਹੋਈ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GSS. 19-
Sun Vaddaa Aakhai Sabh Koee || Kaevadd Vaddaa Ddeethaa Hoee ||
Hearing, everyone calls You Great, But only one who has seen You, knows just how Great You are.

ਕੀਮਤਿ ਪਾਇ ਨ ਕਹਿਆ ਜਾਇ ॥ ਕਹਣੈ ਵਾਲੇ ਤੇਰੇ ਰਹੇ ਸਮਾਇ ॥੧॥
Keemath Paae N Kehiaa Jaae || Kehanai Vaalae Thaerae Rehae Samaae ||1||
No one can measure Your Worth, or describe Yo Those who describe You, remain absorbed in You. ||1||

ਵਡੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਸਾਹਿਬਾ ਗਹਿਰ ਗੰਭੀਰਾ ਗੁਣੀ ਗਹੀਰਾ ॥ ਕੋਈ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਤੇਰਾ ਕੇਤਾ ਕੇਵਡੁ ਚੀਰਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Vaddae Maerae Saahibaa Gehir Ganbheeraa Gunee Geheeraa || Koee N Jaanai Thaeraa Kaethaa Kaevadd Cheeraa ||1|| Rehaao ||
O my Great Lord and Master of Unfathomable Depth, You are the Ocean of Excellence. No one knows the greatness of Your expanse. ||1||Pause||

ਸਭਿ ਸੁਰਤੀ ਮਿਲਿ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਕਮਾਈ ॥ ਸਭ ਕੀਮਤਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਕੀਮਤਿ ਪਾਈ ॥
Sabh Surathee Mil Surath Kamaaee || Sabh Keemath Mil Keemath Paaee ||
All the contemplators met together and practiced contemplation; All the appraisers met together and tried to appraise You.

ਗਿਆਨੀ ਧਿਆਨੀ ਗੁਰ ਗੁਰ ਹਾਈ ॥ ਕਹਣੁ ਨ ਜਾਈ ਤੇਰੀ ਤਿਲੁ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥੨॥
Giaanee Dhhiaanee Gur Gur Haaee || Kehan N Jaaee Thaeree Thil Vaddiaaee ||2||
The theologians, the meditators and the teachers of teachers Could not express even an iota of Your Greatness. ||2||

ਸਭਿ ਸਤ ਸਭਿ ਤਪ ਸਭਿ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ॥ ਸਿਧਾ ਪੁਰਖਾ ਕੀਆ ਵਡਿਆਈਆਂ ॥
Sabh Sath Sabh Thap Sabh Changiaaeeaa || Sidhhaa Purakhaa Keeaa Vaddiaaeeaaan ||
All Truth, all austerities, all goodness, And the greatness of the Siddhas, the beings of perfect spiritual powers.

ਤੁਧੁ ਵਿਣੁ ਸਿਧੀ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਈਆ ॥ ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਠਾਕਿ ਰਹਾਈਆ ॥੩॥
Thudhh Vin Sidhhee Kinai N Paaeeaa || Karam Milai Naahee Thaak Rehaaeeaa ||3||
Without You, none has attained such spiritual powers. They are obtained by Your Grace; their flow cannot be blocked. ||3||

ਆਖਣ ਵਾਲਾ ਕਿਆ ਬੇਚਾਰਾ ॥ ਸਿਫਤੀ ਭਰੇ ਤੇਰੇ ਭੰਡਾਰਾ ॥
Aakhan Vaalaa Kiaa Baechaaraa || Sifathee Bharae Thaerae Bhanddaaraa ||
What can the helpless speaker do? Your bounties are overflowing with Your Praises.

ਜਿਸੁ ਤੂੰ ਦੇਹਿ ਤਿਸੈ ਕਿਆ ਚਾਰਾ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੁ ਸਵਾਰਣਹਾਰਾ ॥੪॥੧॥
Jis Thoon Dhaehi Thisai Kiaa Chaaraa || Naanak Sach Savaaranehaaraa ||4||1||
And the one, unto whom You give – why should he think of any other? O Nanak, the True Lord is the Embellisher. ||4||1||

Any one who is literally educated or otherwise, a professional scholar, an entrepreneur ………can be recipient of Dhur Ki Bani, provided one is at the same Divine wave-length that comes by:-

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.

Bottom line is ਕਾਮਣਿ ਨਉ ਨਿਧਿ ਪਾਈ – need is to become ਕਾਮਣਿ by renouncing/surrendering oneself.

Daily Nit-nem of Gurbani coupled with Ardas certainly works.

According to Guru Amar Das Ji ‘Dhur Ki Bani’ is always there for for those who are truthful and connected to Almighty God (Waheguru) who is all-pervading

ਸੁਣਤੇ ਪੁਨੀਤ ਕਹਤੇ ਪਵਿਤੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰੇ ॥ (Raag Raamkali M. 3, GGS. 922-18).
Sunathae Puneeth Kehathae Pavith Sathigur Rehiaa Bharapoorae ||
Pure are the listeners, and pure are the speakers; the True Guru is all-pervading and permeating.

ਬਿਨਵੰਤਿ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਗੁਰ ਚਰਣ ਲਾਗੇ ਵਾਜੇ ਅਨਹਦ ਤੂਰੇ ॥੪੦॥੧॥
Binavanth Naanak Gur Charan Laagae Vaajae Anehadh Thoorae ||40||1||
Prays Nanak, touching the Guru’s Feet, the unstruck sound current of the celestial bugles vibrates and resounds. ||40||1||

With Waheguru’s blessings.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

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

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

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

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

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

Guru Nanak Sahib further makes no secret in proclaiming that the Doer is his GURU (Ik oankar/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 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, 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 ॥
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 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 (Waheguru) is the founder of Sikhi/Sikh Religion. Whereas, historically speaking Guru Nanak Sahib was instrumental for founding Sikhi and other Gurus, Bhagats and Mahapurakhs contributed their share in building and supporting Sikhi founded by Guru Nanak.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Bhagat Namdev ( 1270-1351) was born in a ‘Sheepa’ family of Maharashtra province of India in a family of Calico-printer. His 60 Sabds in 18 Raags are included in the Guru Granth Sahib with basic themes revolving around Waheguru, Guru and Naam Simran.

Since childhood, Bhagat Namdev was different from his fellow children and was attracted to the company of saints and spiritually enlightened persons. He believed that gaining of spirituality is not linked to birth in high caste & creed but in acquiring trough Gurmat full faith in Waheguru, Guru and Gur-sabd and Simran of Waheguru:-

– ਛੀਪੇ ਕੇ ਘਰਿ ਜਨਮੁ ਦੈਲਾ ਗੁਰ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਭੈਲਾ ॥ ਸੰਤਹ ਕੈ ਪਰਸਾਦਿ ਨਾਮਾ ਹਰਿ ਭੇਟੁਲਾ ॥੨॥੫ii (Raag Asa Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 486-3).
You have given me birth in the house of a calico-printer, but I have found the Teachings of the Guru. By the Grace of the Saint, Naam Dayv has met the Lord. ||2||5||

– ਮੈ ਅੰਧੁਲੇ ਕੀ ਟੇਕ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਖੁੰਦਕਾਰਾ ॥ ਮੈ ਗਰੀਬ ਮੈ ਮਸਕੀਨ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ਅਧਾਰਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Tilang Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 727-12).
I am blind; Your Name, O Creator Lord, is my only anchor and support. I am poor, and I am meek. Your Name is my only support. ||1||Pause||

ਕਰੀਮਾਂ ਰਹੀਮਾਂ ਅਲਾਹ ਤੂ ਗਨੀਬ਼ ॥ ਹਾਜਰਾ ਹਜੂਰਿ ਦਰਿ ਪੇਸਿ ਤੂੰ ਮਨੀਬ਼ ॥੧॥
O beautiful Lord, benevolent and merciful Lord, You are so wealthy and generous. You are ever-present in every presence, within and before me. ||1||

Guru Arjan Dev Ji attests the spiritual height of Bhagat Namdev in Gurbani and Bhagat Ji himself claims to to be immersed in Waheguru and sees Him all around and everywhere:-

– ਨਾਮਦੇਵ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਬਸਹਿ ਸੰਗਿ॥ (Raag Basant M. 5, 1192-13).
Naam Dayv lived with the Dear Lord.

According to Bhagat Namdev Ji, Waheguru is wondrous and jiwan-data who is ever pervading and permeating; and He can be realised when the Divine Grace ascends as per his own experience of Simran of Waheguru. Bhagat Ji used various names for Waheguru: such as Ram, Hari, Narain, Allah, Beetala, Beidi, Gopal, Gobind, Jagjivan, Kesva and Purkhotam etc):-

– ਏਕ ਅਨੇਕ ਬਿਆਪਕ ਪੂਰਕ ਜਤ ਦੇਖਉ ਤਤ ਸੋਈ ॥ ਮਾਇਆ ਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਬਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਬਿਮੋਹਿਤ ਬਿਰਲਾ ਬੂਝੈ ਕੋਈ ॥੧॥ (Raag Asa Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 485-1).
In the one and in the many, He is pervading and permeating; wherever I look, there He is. The marvellous image of Maya is so fascinating; how few understand this. ||1||

ਸਭੁ ਗੋਬਿੰਦੁ ਹੈ ਸਭੁ ਗੋਬਿੰਦੁ ਹੈ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਬਿਨੁ ਨਹੀ ਕੋਈ ॥ ਸੂਤੁ ਏਕੁ ਮਣਿ ਸਤ ਸਹੰਸ ਜੈਸੇ ਓਤਿ ਪੋਤਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸੋਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
God is everything, God is everything. Without God, there is nothing at all. As one thread holds hundreds and thousands of beads, He is woven into His creation. ||1||Pause||

Bhagat Ji attaches a lot of importance to finding a True Gurur who could lead him to Waheguru:-

– ਹੋਹੁ ਦਇਆਲੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮੇਲਿ ਤੂ ਮੋ ਕਉ ॥ ਪਾਰਿ ਉਤਾਰੇ ਕੇਸਵਾ ॥੩॥ (Raag Basant Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 1196-3).
Please be merciful, and unite me with the True Guru; Carry me across, O Lord. ||3||

– ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਜਾਨਿਆ ॥ ਜਨੁ ਨਾਮਾ ਸਹਜ ਸਮਾਨਿਆ ॥੪॥੧॥ (Raag Sorath Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 657-4).
By Guru’s Grace, I know this. Servant Naam Dayv is absorbed in the Celestial Lord. ||4||1||

– ਜਾ ਕੇ ਮਸਤਕਿ ਲਿਖਿਓ ਕਰਮਾ ॥ ਸੋ ਭਜਿ ਪਰਿ ਹੈ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਰਨਾ ॥ (Raag Bhaira-o Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 1165-5).
One who has good karma recorded on his forehead, Hurries to enter the Guru’s Sanctuary.

ਕਹਤ ਨਾਮਦੇਉ ਇਹੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ ਇਨ ਬਿਧਿ ਸੰਤਹੁ ਉਤਰਹੁ ਪਾਰਿ ॥੪॥੨॥੮॥
Says Naam Dayv, consider this: O Saints, this is the way to cross over to the other side. ||4||2||8||

Bhagat Ji further describes the role of GURU in his life style:-

– ਸਫਲ ਜਨਮੁ ਮੋ ਕਉ ਗੁਰ ਕੀਨਾ ॥ ਦੁਖ ਬਿਸਾਰਿ ਸੁਖ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਲੀਨਾ ॥੧॥ (Raag Bilaaval Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 857-19).
The Guru has made my life fruitful. My pain is forgotten, and I have found peace deep within myself. ||1||

ਗਿਆਨ ਅੰਜਨੁ ਮੋ ਕਉ ਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਨਾ ॥ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਜੀਵਨੁ ਮਨ ਹੀਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
The Guru has blessed me with the ointment of spiritual wisdom. Without the Lord’s Name, life is mindless. ||1||Pause||

Bhagat Namdev claims that in his Spiritual realization, SIMRAN of Waheguru was instrumental:-

– ਕਉਨ ਕੋ ਕਲੰਕੁ ਰਹਿਓ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਲੇਤ ਹੀ ॥ਪਤਿਤ ਪਵਿਤ ਭਏ ਰਾਮੁ ਕਹਤ ਹੀ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Todee Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 719-13).
Whose blemishes remain, when one chants the Lord’s Name? Sinners become pure, chanting the Lord’s Name. ||1||Pause||

– ਨਾਮਦੇਇ ਸਿਮਰਨੁ ਕਰਿ ਜਾਨਾਂ ॥ ਜਗਜੀਵਨ ਸਿਉ ਜੀਉ ਸਮਾਨਾਂ ॥੨॥੧॥ (Raag Bilaaval Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 857-19).?
Meditating in remembrance, Naam Dayv has come to know the Lord. His soul is blended with the Lord, the Life of the World. ||2||1||

Bhagat Ji was so drenched in meditating and contemplating of Waheguru Naam that he did not want to be in the company of those were not in harmony with Waheguru:-

– ਜੋ ਨ ਭਜੰਤੇ ਨਾਰਾਇਣਾ ॥ ਤਿਨ ਕਾ ਮੈ ਨ ਕਰਉ ਦਰਸਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Bhaira-o Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 1163-14).
Those who do not meditate and vibrate on the Lord – I do not even want to see them. ||1||Pause||

ਜਿਨ ਕੈ ਭੀਤਰਿ ਹੈ ਅੰਤਰਾ ॥ ਜੈਸੇ ਪਸੁ ਤੈਸੇ ਓਇ ਨਰਾ ॥੨॥
Those whose inner beings are not in harmony with the Lord, Are nothing more than beasts. ||2||

– ਨਾਮਾ ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹਿਆ ਕਹੈ ਤਿਲੋਚਨੁ ਮੀਤ ॥ ਕਾਹੇ ਛੀਪਹੁ ਛਾਇਲੈ ਰਾਮ ਨ ਲਾਵਹੁ ਚੀਤੁ ॥੨੧੨॥ (Salok Bhagat Kabir, GGS. 1375-18).
Trilochan says, O Naam Dayv, Maya has enticed you, my friend. Why are you printing designs on these sheets, and not focusing your consciousness on the Lord? ||212||

ਨਾਮਾ ਕਹੈ ਤਿਲੋਚਨਾ ਮੁਖ ਤੇ ਰਾਮੁ ਸੰਮ੍ਹ੍ਹਾਲਿ ॥ ਹਾਥ ਪਾਉ ਕਰਿ ਕਾਮੁ ਸਭੁ ਚੀਤੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨ ਨਾਲਿ ॥੨੧੩॥
Naam Dayv answers, O Trilochan, chant the Lord’s Name with your mouth. With your hands and feet, do all your work, but let your consciousness remain with the Immaculate Lord. ||213||

Bhagat Namdev on attaining his spiritual heights became a rebel in denouncing empty rituals of Hindus and Muslims in strongest possible language as given in his Bani:-

-ਹਿੰਦੂ ਅੰਨ੍ਹਾ ਤੁਰਕੂ ਕਾਣਾ ॥ ਦੁਹਾਂ ਤੇ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਸਿਆਣਾ ॥ (Raag Bilaaval Gond Bhagat Namdev, GGS. 875-2).
The Hindu is sightless; the Muslim has only one eye. The spiritual teacher is wiser than both of them.

ਹਿੰਦੂ ਪੂਜੈ ਦੇਹੁਰਾ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ਮਸੀਤਿ ॥ ਨਾਮੇ ਸੋਈ ਸੇਵਿਆ ਜਹ ਦੇਹੁਰਾ ਨ ਮਸੀਤਿ ॥੪॥੩॥੭॥
The Hindu worships at the temple, the Muslim at the mosque. Naam Dayv serves that Lord, who is not limited to either the temple or the mosque. ||4||3||7||
………………………………………………………

Kirpal Singh

Wellington, New Zealand

kirpal2singh@yahoo.com