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 ||

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

A person always has some sort of expectation of reward everytime he/she performs any action (karam). If that reward is not recieved by committing to that action , it is like a sown seed could not develop at all, like a planted tree could not bear any fruit. A gardener, who dedicatedly takes care of the flowers and plants he planted, feels really disappointed if his plants dry up despite his efforts. We get up and perform our daily actions of doing Nitnem in the morning, the reward or fruit of these actions according to Gurbani is presented as follows:

There are approximately (Maskeen Ji guesses) 150 or so questions in the Dasam Granth. Each of these questions, found in the Akaal Ustat, is extremely valuable and important. These questions are the very questions a seeker of Truth often faces on his journey from time to time. But, the Bani only puts forth the questions and does not provide any answers. People who have had the fortunate opportunity to see (darshan) of Dasam Granth Ji will know this, although these days people don’t even seem to have time to visit Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

I [Maskeen Ji] would like to clarify the doubts as to why Dhan Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaaj did not register his Bani in the Dhan Dhan Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The point that I [Maskeen Ji] often put across to explain this are these:

1. Firstly, the entire Bani of Dhan Dhan Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj is about Brahm Gyaan, pure Knowledge of God. However, in Dasam Granth Ji, Dhan Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s own discourse and story is also present.

Ab mY ApnI kQw bKwno ] qp swDq ijh ibiD muih Awno ]
Now I relate my own story of how God sent me in the world while I was absorbed in meditation. (Panna 132, Sri Dasam Granth Ji)

This is the autobiographical discourse by Guru Gobind Singh Ji like, where and why he was born, how he spent his childhood, and the wars he fought which are explained in vast detail in the Bani Bachittar Natak. In Dhan Dhan Guru Granth Sahib Ji, however, is pure Brahm Gyaan, one will not find any mention of any historical facts, for example where and when was Guru Nanak Dev Ji born and so forth. Therefore, keeping this fact in consideration, Guru Gobind Singh Ji chose not to register his Bani in Dhan Dhan Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj.

2. The second argument often given is this: Why did Guru Gobind Singh Ji write his life story himself? In general, the life story of prophets and great religious figures (Avtaari Purash) has been written by people other than themselves. For example, the story of Sri Ram was written by Tulsi and Valmiki and people like Pandit Hirda Ram, etc. Similarly, the entire life history of Sri Krishna was written by Ved Vyaas, and by people like Kavi Nirotam, Kaisho Dutt and others. So, the question that is asked is while there were people who could write the life history of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, why did he choose to write it himself?

A writer who wishes to write about any avtaari purash needs both the true feeling and knowledge about him. If the story is told with pure emotional feelings, the work would be nothing but wrong meanings. I [Maskeen Ji] have read books written by such people, and they were full of emotional exaggerations with no real knowledge behind it, so much so that miracles have been attached to even the trivial of things. For example, Tulsi, in his emotional outburst has written saloks where he has gone as far as calling Sri Ram the God incarnate. In the same fashion, Surdaas, Nirotam and others write about Sri Krishan and call him God. However, if even deep knowledge has no emotional element attached to it, then arguments take place. So, there has to be a proper balance between both these two elements.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was aware of the difficulty of keeping the right balance. He was concerned that some sikh, flowing in the sea of emotions, might end up equating him with God while writing his life history. That is why, Guruji decided to write his autobiography, and wrote the following in it:

jy hm ko prmysr aucir hY ] qy sB nrk kuMf mih pir hY ]
Those who call me God, will fall into the pit of hell.

mo kO dwsu qvn kw jwno ] Xw mY Byd n rMc pCwno ] 32 ]
Regard me as a humble servant of the Lord and have no doubt about it.

mY hO prm purK ko dwsw ] dyKn AwXo jgq qmwsw ]
I am a slave of the Supreme Being and have come to witness the drama of the world. (Bachittar Natak, Sri Dasam Granth)

God is the supreme power, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji clearly states that he is not God, but just a human being.

I [Maskeen Ji] was reading a book by Khushwant Singh in which he writes there are about 84 people in India who call themselves Bhagwaan, that includes people like Rajneesh. Sadly, there are few others, like the Nirankaaris, who like to be called as Nirankaars. Blindly, fools started following them without even realising the meaning of the word ‘Nirankaar’. Nirankaar word means One that has no form, then how can someone made of five elements be a Nirankaar? Such people are in our panth as well who call themselves Gurus and Sants and persuade people to follow their royalty and their own ways. Such people try and break people from our Guruji rather than bonding them closer to the true Gurus. Anyhow, sooner or later, maybe in the next century, the whole world will have to accept the fact that a human being made of flesh and bones can never be God. Anyone who attracts people to his own belief system is a cheat. Our Ten Gurus never told us to worship them and treat them as God. Instead, the whole effort of Gurus is to connect us to the words written in the praise of God.

Now, I [Maskeen Ji] would like to present some really beautiful thoughts written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Sri Dasam Granth in regards to various aspects of life and religion. Another reason that Guru Gobind Singh Ji did not add bani in Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj is that Guruji has done teeka of various other religious scriptures, the philosophies of which Guruji do not endorse, it is just a teeka of the religious texts for understanding.

ਦਸਮ ਕਥਾ ਭਾਗਉਤ ਕੀ ਭਾਖਾ ਕਰੀ ਬਨਾਇ ॥ ਅਵਰ ਬਾਸਨਾ ਨਾਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਧਰਮ ਜੁੱਧ ਕੇ ਚਾਇ ॥੨੪੯੧॥
kathaa Bhaagaut kibhaakhaa karibanaae|| Avar baasnaa naah(i) prabh dharam juddh ke chaae||2491||

I have composed the discourse of the tenth part (Skandh) of Bhagavat in the vernacular; O Lord ! I have no other desire and have only the zeal for the war fought on the basis of righteousness.2491. (Panna 1133, Sri Dasam Granth)

As you might be aware, Banis like Ram Avtar, Krishna Avtar, as well as discourses on Chaubees Avtar are present in Sri Dasam Granth. The discourses on the twenty four avtars was originally completely written in Sanskrit. In those days, a brahmin used to teach Sanskrit to fellow brahmins only because they used to believe that understanding of Sanskrit is right of only the brahmins. As such, common man was unable to decipher what was written in those texts. Guru Gobind Singh Ji, with his infinite wisdom, did teekas of all the 24 avtars at Sri Paonta Sahib so that even the common man could know what it is all about. Even though Guruji wrote these texts, he made it absolutely clear that these are not his thoughts. For instance, after completing Krishna Avtar, Guruji wrote:

ਮੈ ਨ ਗਨੇਸ਼ਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਿਥਮ ਮਨਾਊਂ ॥ ਕਿਸ਼ਨ ਬਿਸ਼ਨ ਕਬਹੂੰ ਨਹ ਧਿਆਊਂ ॥ਕਾਨ ਸੁਨੇ ਪਹਿਚਾਨ ਨ ਤਿਨ ਸੋਂ ॥ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਗੀ ਮੋਰੀ ਪਗ ਇਨ ਸੋਂ ॥੪੩੪॥
Mai na Ganeshah(i) pritham manaaoon|| Kishan Bishan kab-hoon nah dhiaaoon|| Kaan sune paihchaan na tin son|| Liv laagimoripag in son||434||

I do not adore Ganesha in the beginning and also do not mediatate on Krishna and Vishnu; I have only heard about them with my ears and I do not recognize them; my consciousness is absorbed at the feet of the Supreme Kal (the Immanent Brahman).434. (Panna 732, Sri Dasam Granth)

The reason Guruji felt the need to write these lines after Krishna Avtar is to dispel any thought that Guruji worships Krishna. Sadly, some people still misunderstood, like Bhagat Chela Ram. He has written a book called ‘Murali Mehma’. He writes in the preface of the book that Guru Gobind Singh Ji has accepted Krishna as the most superior amongst all the Avtars. And although he could not continue to go into detail, but he did let his intentions know. Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to let the masses know what the ’secret’ knowledge is all about, because brahmins used to claim that nobody else except them have the right to gain this knowledge.

Before the Chaubees Avtar Bani comes the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, called ‘Bachittar Natak’. In Akal Ustat, there is no mention of any kings, it is pure praises of Akal Purakh. There are a few questions in Akal Ustat that I [Maskeen Ji] would like to present before you:

ਕੋ ਸੂਰਾ ਸੁੰਦਰ ਕਵਨ ਕਹਾ ਜੋਗ ਕੋ ਸਾਰ ॥
Ko sooraa sundar kavan kahaa jog ko saar||

Who is hero and who is beautiful? What is the essence of Yoga?

ਕੋ ਦਾਤਾ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਕਵਨ ਕਹੋ ਬਿਚਾਰ ਅਬਿਚਾਰ ॥੧੦॥੨੧੦॥
Ko daataa giaanoo kavan kaho bichaar abichaar||10||210||

Who is the Donor and who is the Knower? Tell me the judicious and injudicious.10.210. (Panna 78, Sri Dasam Granth)

Guruji talks about the things in this world that atrracts and influences a person. Similarly, Guruji asks:

ਕਹਾ ਨੇਮ ਸੰਜਮ ਕਹਾ ਕਹਾ ਗਿਆਨ ਅਗਿਆਨ ॥
Kahaa nem sanjam kahaa kahaa giaan agiaan||

What are the observance and restraint? What are the knowledge and nescience. (Panna 78, Sri Dasam Granth)

There are many more questions that Guruji puts forward, and all of them are the topics which we are not always clear about, and often misunderstand and misinterpret their real meanings. However, anyone who has understood these questions and has found the answers to them, consider such a person as having the knowledge of all the four directions of the Dharam.

Lets discuss the following question:

ਕੋ ਸੂਰਾ ਸੁੰਦਰ ਕਵਨ ਕਹਾ ਜੋਗ ਕੋ ਸਾਰ ॥
Ko sooraa sundar kavan kahaa jog ko saar||

Who is hero and who is beautiful? What is the essence of Yoga?

So, who is brave? One that has got great strength in his body? Or someone who is ready to take others’ turbans off all the time? No. The peak of Bhagti is:

ਕਹੁ ਕਬੀਰ ਸੁਖਿ ਸਹਜਿ ਸਮਾਵਉ ॥
kahu kabeer sukh sehaj samaavo ||

Says Kabeer, I am now immersed in intuitive peace and poise.

ਆਪਿ ਨ ਡਰਉ ਨ ਅਵਰ ਡਰਾਵਉ ॥੩॥੧੭॥
aap n ddaro n avar ddaraavo ||3||17||

I do not fear anyone, and I do not strike fear into anyone else. ||3||17|| (Ang 327, Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

Guru Teg Bahadur Ji says:

ਭੈ ਕਾਹੂ ਕਉ ਦੇਤ ਨਹਿ ਨਹਿ ਭੈ ਮਾਨਤ ਆਨ ॥
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|| (Ang 1427, Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

It is said that the answers to these questions were originally present in Sri Dasam Granth, but somr part of it has been lost. Wise men believe that a part of Dasam Granth was lost during the time when wars were being fought against Mughals. Yet another set of scholars believe that Guruji has embedded subliminal answers to these questions within the questions themselves. Such a shabad by Bhagat Kabir Ji is in Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, where question is the answer and answer is the question.

ਜਉ ਤੁਮ ਅਪਨੇ ਜਨ ਸੌ ਕਾਮੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
jo thum apanae jan sa kaam ||1|| rehaao ||

if you require any work from Your humble servant. ||1||Pause||

ਇਹੁ ਮਨੁ ਬਡਾ ਕਿ ਜਾ ਸਉ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ॥
eihu man baddaa k jaa so man maaniaa ||

Is this mind greater, or the One to whom the mind is attuned?

ਰਾਮੁ ਬਡਾ ਕੈ ਰਾਮਹਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ ॥੧॥
raam baddaa kai raamehi jaaniaa ||1||

Is the Lord greater, or one who knows the Lord? ||1||

ਬ੍ਰਹਮਾ ਬਡਾ ਕਿ ਜਾਸੁ ਉਪਾਇਆ ॥
brehamaa baddaa k jaas oupaaeiaa ||

Is Brahma greater, or the One who created Him?

ਬੇਦੁ ਬਡਾ ਕਿ ਜਹਾਂ ਤੇ ਆਇਆ ॥੨॥
baedh baddaa k jehaan thae aaeiaa ||2||

Are the Vedas greater, or the One from which they came? ||2||

ਕਹਿ ਕਬੀਰ ਹਉ ਭਇਆ ਉਦਾਸੁ ॥
kehi kabeer ho bhaeiaa oudhaas ||

Says Kabeer, I have become depressed;

ਤੀਰਥੁ ਬਡਾ ਕਿ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਦਾਸੁ ॥੩॥੪੨॥
theerathh baddaa k har kaa dhaas ||3||42||

is the sacred shrine of pilgrimage greater, or the slave of the Lord? ||3||42||(Ang 331, Dhan Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

Those who have the knowledge of the grammer of Gurbani and those familiar with this style of writing will know that the questions have got the answers within them. Kabeer Ji says the one whose mind has agreed to Akal Purakh is greater. Similarly, the one who has known Akal Purakh is greater, because one might never know God exists if there are no Sants around who have found the True Creator. A great soul came on this earth in a small village Talwandi, only then it became Nankana Sahib, it never existed before Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Similarly, Sheesh Ganj in Chandni Chowk, where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave Shaheedi became a pilgrimage, otherwise it was just a ordinary place. So, has that place given importance to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji or has Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji has given birth to that place? It is Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Shaheedi that created that place.

Download katha
-Taken from www.sikhawareness.com by Amardeep

Sacrificing and giving of all possessions

One time Gurmukh Singh gathered whatever money he had, his warm lohee (shawl), mattress, his books, and whatever possessions that belonged to him and took them to Mahpursh Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji Khalsa and placed them on a table in front of Mahpursh. Totally lost in Anand, colored in Naam with no attachment for anything of his own Gurmukh Singh was about to say,

Maharaaj, please accept my offerings!

However knowing all, Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji got up and before Gurmukh Singh could say a word, started an Ardaas on behalf of Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji and directed the question Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji was going to ask into the lap to Guru Sahib saying,

Dear Trurthful Lord, Bhai Gurmukh Singh Aurdeesa sacrifices all his belongings and entirety to your Sangat. In return please bless Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji with the love of your name and have him forever imbued in this love of your name across all planes.

The Ardaas was said in such a way, that hearing such an Ardaas would bring a tear to ones eyes, and an amazing rejuvenating feeling would have overcome them. Gurmukh Singh’s spirit was greatly uplifted. A Singh also witnessing this later, asked Mahpursh,

Hey maharajah, if he gave up all these normal usual items that you yourself gave him, how is that giving everything (sarbans)?

Absorbed in Naam, Sant replied,

Singho! Understand this. Gurmukh Singh sacrificed all that he had from head to toe, and sacrificed all that he felt belonged to him. Whatever he thought was his, he gave it all to Guru Sahib Ji, and this is called Sarbans Daan, sacrificing everything. It doesn’t matter if you have a little or a lot. Whatever you think is yours if you give it all up then that alone is sarbans daan. But not anyone can just do this.

Through countless hours of seva serving in serving Sangat, Guru Sahib blessed Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji with such kirpa to do such a thing (give up everything he had).

May I Forever be with Sant Ji

One day upon being pleased by Gurmukh Singh’s Seva-Simran Jeevan, Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji approached Gurmukh Singh Ji and said,

Come, Bhai Aurdeesa Ji! Ask for what your heart desires. I am very pleased and delighted with your service here.

Gurmukh Singh Ji with folded hands then requested,

Maharaaj! I have no other desires except for my one desire that I pass from this life with you and not have to spend this life without you and then repeated the following lines of Gurbani,

O Saint, You are attuned to the Lord. Please stand by me, Architect of Destiny; please take me to my destination, Great Giver.

Sant joyfully replied,

By the grace of the Great Guru, and with the Guru’s supreme and divine blessings, then you too can pass with me.

At that time the other Singh’s who were present, did not understand the deeper meanings as to what Mahpursh and Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji’s conversation was all about All they understood about the conversation was that, Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji, was asking, Mahpursh that since they brought him into the Jatha, to allow him to remain with the Jatha until his end. The reality of what Gurmukh Singh Ji and Mahpursh talked about and the deeper meanings of saying until the end came to light, at Kiratpur Sahib Patalpuri, when Gurmukh Singh jumped into the angeeta sahib and clutched Mahpursh and held onto them close, being burned alive and cremated alongside them,

Those who witnessed Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji Aurdeesa jump into the flames that day where all shocked and left speechless. From Singhs of the jatha, Panthic leaders, politicians, people of great honor and reputation , police and those in civil service where all unable to hide there shock at what they had seen when they witnessed Gurmukh Singh Ji, jumped into the flames with Mahapursh Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji. The only thought that repeated in the minds of all sangat present was,

Blessed is the Guru, Blessed is the Guru’s Sikh, Sant Giani Gurbachan Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindranwale, and blessed is Bhai Gurmukh Singh Ji Aurdeesa.

Bhai Gurmukh Singh ji on Sant Gurbachan Singh ji's funeral pyre

-from www.sikhawareness.com

For those interested in learning the truth behind the horrifying events during and leading up to Operation Bluestar in 1984, AR Darshi’s book “The Gallant Defender” is a must read. Written by a man with an impeccable resume, including serving as a magistrate and Joint Secretary to the Punjab, he had access to behind the scenes knowledge of Bluestar. Unfortunately, those who wish for the truth to remain hidden attempt to explain away explanations of the events, claiming that they are written by Sikhs and therefore must be false. If it matters to anyone, Mr. Darshi is a Hindu.

The entire book is available at: The Gallant Defender

This is the prologue:

I have ventured to make a humble effort to write this book for some compulsive reasons and meaningful purpose. The first reason is that during my long service in Punjab in the capacity of Judicial Magistrate, Sub Divisional Magistrate, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Joint Secretary to Government of Punjab, I have carefully watched and monitored all politico-religious agitations and consequent developments right from the reign of late Partap Singh Kairon to the present day government of Parkash Singh Badal which is still crumblingly lurking on till this last day of 1998. The second reason is that during the long stint of my service in Punjab I have developed very close and cordial relations with the top leaders of all the political parties especially with the leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal. I have the privilege of having “personal close relations with late Baba Joginder Singh, father of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, Jathedar Gurcharan Singh Tohra, President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee and Jathedar Jagdev Singh Talwandi, who had been the President of the Shiromani Akali Dal from 1977 to 1980. He at present is the Senior Vice President of Shiromani Akali Dal. Thirdly, being a post graduate in Political Science and Psychology I have developed very keen interest in political affairs and day to day politics. And, therefore, I have been keenly observing all political developments for the last three decades. However, my service in the capacity of PCS officer in Punjab was simply incidental. Therefore, whatever matter I have included in this book is either based on my personal conversations held with the political leaders or my direct knowledge derived from political and other events. These events include intra-contradictions prevailing among the Akali leaders; their confrontation with the discriminatory Congress governments; their conflicts with Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale; and last but not the least, Sant Bhindranwale’s’ struggle against the offensive launched by the Nirankaris headed by Gurbachan Slngh, to subvert the Sikh religion.

Activities of the Akalis carried out behind the scene were confided to me by Jathedar Jagdev Singh °Talwandi, Gurcharan Singh Tohra }ate Balwant Singh and others while Congress leaders such as Darbara Singh and Beant Singh, both late Chief Ministers, leaked out their own strategies and tactical manoeuvres. Comrade Harkishan Singh Surjit, with whom I have had the oldest relations, kept me feeding with political wheel-deals and other developments that had been taking place at the national and the state levels. Comrade Surjit, who is a very shrewd politician and always keeps himself at the centre stage, has been maintaining close relations with Badal, Tohra, Talwandi, Surjit Singh Barnala till today. Late Balwant Singh and Longowal always sought his advice on all matters. Very often than not these leaders of all hues and shades discussed subjects of political interests among themselves collectively and severally. So I used to get continuous feedback on the latest political developments through all these leaders.

So when I touched a delicate and sensitive subject of the agreement that had been reached in 1977 between Badal, Tohra and Talwandi that Tohra would be the Chief Minister of Punjab, it is not in any way a hear say story: Both Tohra and Talwandi confidentially but separately revealed and confirmed this episode of trust and mistrust. Tohra was treacherously deceived and deprived of his just right to ride the chair of Chief Minister. Unfortunately he is still being kept at bay by Badal and his supporters. Similarly when I referred to the agreement that had been reached in respect of Punjab in 1983 in the tripartite meeting held at Delhi, from which agreement Indira Gandhi had later resiled, is also not a newspaper story. It was confided to me personally by Comrade Surjit who had participated in that tripartite meeting.

The purpose of writing this book is twofold. Firstly, it is to recall and commemorate the outstanding contribution made by Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale who had raised the emaciated spirit of the Khalsa. Secondly, it is for the loving memory of Sant Bhindranwale who had made an unparalleled and unique sacrifice in defense of the faith and the philosophy of the Khalsa so fondly created and nourished by Guru Gobind Singh.

Although this book was written in 1985, after assassination of Longowal, yet it could not be published then, Now I am prompted to publish it so that it may precede or coincide with the tercentenary celebrations of birth of the Khalsa. I am deeply pained to observe that those leaders whose role during the Bhindranwale time was anti-panthic, have now come to the forefront to farcically celebrate this auspicious event. And none of these failed leaders has bothered to remember or even mention his name.

They have conveniently forgotten the outstanding services rendered by Sant Bhindranwale who has resuscitated the dead spirit of the Khalsa with his blood. Hence this book is being published on this auspicious occasion to refresh and revive the forgotten memory of the gallant defender.

A.R. Darshi B-XX-2939,
Gurdev Nagar, Civil Lines,
Ludhiana-141 001, Punjab, India.
January 1, 1999

Some items of interest related to the 1984 attack on the Sikh community:

-Documentary on the effects of the attack on British Sikhs

-Bleeding Punjab documentary

-Examination of the fortifications used in defence of the Akaal Takht complex (note that defenders were aware of plans for the attack well in advance as the Indian army had been practicing the assault on mockups for months beforehand).

Some informative websites:

-Never Forget 1984

-Saint Soldiers

The Life of Gurmukh Singh Aurdeesa

Gurmukh Singh Aurdeesa, was by birth a Hindu and born into a poor Hindu family. Coming from a poor family he was made at an early age to leave home in search of work and moved around before settling down in Calcutta.

Due to good deeds in his past lives Gurmukh Singh would visit various Gurdwara Sahibs and with utmost devotion and love do Seva in the Langar of washing the dirty pots and pans. It was with such good Karm that Gurmukh Singh found Sangat of many famous sadhus and saints. It was this same good Karm that brought Gurmukh Singh into the sangat where he heard the glorious praises of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji recited by such holy Sikh Saints as those of Sant Baba Ajaib Singh Ji, and learned of Gurmat and the Gurmat way from the spiritually uplifting dharna Kirtan and Katha of Sant Baba Isher Singh Ji (Rara Sahib).

The darshan and sangat of such great Sikh Mahpursh (Saints) led, Gurmukh Singhus mind to be filled with Gurmat and Gursikhi thoughts. Even while being Hindu, Gurmukh Singh started to keep his Kes (hair) and started to lead a life in accordance with Gurmat.

Everyday after spending a laborious day at work in the factory Gurmukh Singh would come and devote whatever time he had, to the service of the Sangat at the Gurdwara Sahib. Only after spending countless hours lovingly washing and cleaning dirty dishes, in the service of the holy Sangat of the Guru would Gurmukh Singh feel content and at peace and feel all his desires fulfilled. Such satisfaction is told of in Sri Rahiraas Sahib (evening prayer),

Jin Har Sevaiya Tin Mukh Paiya ||
Those who serve You find peace.

Upon the request of Sangat, Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji Khalsa and jatha visited Calcutta. On arrival Sri Akhand Paht Sahib paths where started at Gurdwara Sahib Jugat Sudaar. Kirtan and Katha darbaars where also organized and done on behalf of the Jatha.

During Katha, vadiyaartis (students) would sit and have Sri Pothi Sahibs open and follow along as Mahpursh did Katha. Listening to the Katha of Mahpursh and seeing the love and devotion all the students had for Gurbani, topped it off for Gurmukh Singh and his mind now wanted nothing more but to learn more about Gurbani and Gurmat and he craved for nothing more but to take Amrit and join the Khalsa fold.

When the seed of the karma of past actions sprouted, I met the Lord; He is both the Enjoyer and the Renunciate.
My darkness was dispelled when I met the Lord. O Nanak, after being asleep for countless incarnations, I have awakened.
-(Raag Gauree, Ang 204)

Gurmukh Singh wanting to do darshan of Mahpursh (Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji Khalsa) went up to Mahpursh when they where not holding a diwan and with folded hands went to bow his head at the feet of Mahpursh, when Mahpursh stopped him and said,

Hey Premia (Lover of the Guru) !! You should only bow your head to Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Instead you should meet me with folded hands and say, VAHEGURU JE KA KHALSA, VAHEGURU JE KE FATEH !

Some nearby Singhs who where friends of Gurmukh Singh and knew of his hearts desires then said out loud,

Mahpurkho, this premi is from a Hindu family, but today after hearing your Katha his heart has been set to join with you and the Jatha and learn more about Gurmat and be trained in reading of Gurbani. He does tremendous amounts of Seva and the sangat here loves him dearly.

Sant Mahpursh then replied,
“First this premi should take Amrit and be on the path of the Guru. Then he must abide by the conditions set for all Singhs who wish to be part of the Jatha. If he is willing then he can come and be trained in Gurmat.

Hearing this Gurmukh Singh was extremely pleased with being able to take Amrit and join the Guru’s Fauj (army), and have the privilege to learn Gurmat vidyia from the Jatha. In the following days an Amrit Sinchaar was organized and Gurmukh Singh took Amrit from the punj pyarai (five beloved) who then changed and kept his name as Gurmukh Singh.

That evening when Gurmukh Singh met with Mahpursh Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh Ji, Mahpursh called for Giani Pritam Singh Ji and told them,

“This premi (Gurmukh Singh) was born into a Hindu family, but today he has taken Amrit from the Punj Pyarai who have bestowed upon him the name of Gurmukh Singh. He has a deep interest in learning Sikhiya from the Jatha. Let it be known that he is now with the Jatha. Not only is he a gurmukh but that is also his name.

Baba Lohara Singh Ji was also sitting close by, and mahpursh called to them and instructed them as such,
Lohara Singh Ji, this Singh has studied in a Hindu school and can read and understand Hindi. He can also read Gurmukhi. Sit with him and help him get started on his schooling in Gurbani.”

Then on behalf of Baba Loharaa Singh Ji, Bhai Kartaar Singh Ji “premi” & Bhai Kishan Singh Ji, Gurmukh Singh learned the proper ucharan of Gurbani and in no time became an Akhand Pathi, and quickly memorized his Nitnem and other banian.

Although many students would further there gyian in such areas as Katha or Kirtan, Gurmukh Singh instead preferred to do Seva in the Langar where he would prepare the dough, start the fires, prepare roti, wash the dirty dishes, distribute the langar alongside any other duties that needed doing. However no matter what task Gurmukh Singh took on, he did it with full enthusiasm and with great amounts of devotion and love, while always remaining humble.

Whenever Mahpursh where physically ill or tired Gurmukh Singh would help take care of them. In the summer times, Gurmukh Singh would take on the Seva of fanning sangat and spent much time in the Seva of Mahpursh.

During Amrit Vela, Gurmukh Singh would recite Sri Sukhmani Sahib for the older Singhs, and for the Singhs who where preparing Langar. Regardless of whatever else was going on, Gurmukh Singh would always complete his Nitnem and never tire or get sloppy while doing Seva.

No matter what the situation Gurmukh would never act lazy and Mahpursh respected and held Gurmukh Singh in high esteem for the amount of Simran, & Seva that he did and with the love and respect he would show to all those around him while doing it.

-From Sikhawareness

Das has recently returned from a well deserved vacation. I will resume posting soon.

In the meantime, Sikhawareness is back up and running. Currently, Sikhawareness is the best Sikhi forum on the net. I usually learn something new, and often something useful, from that forum. That’s more than I can say about any other sikh forum at this time.

Bhakti Yoga

There are certain Do’s and Dont’s for the spiritual journey, called yam and Niyam. These are ten each in numbers as per details :

Yam : – (X)

1. Non-Violence :- Do not cause harm to anybody, through mind, body, intellect or speech. Pray from the core of your heart, “The glory of Name Divine is highest. Let all human beings be happy by the grace of God.”

2. Truthfulness :- Live truthful life and indulge not in hypocrisy.

3. Theft :- Theft of body and mind is avoided. Theft of mind means when you do some bad act behind the curtain, i.e. in aloofness so as there is no witness to your act, like act of adulteration etc. To conceal other man’s articles is theft of body.

4. Brahmcharya :- Celibacy is an essential requirement for the spiritual journey. It is like fuel of the body, which must be preserved. Married persons should be faithful to each other observing moderation.

5. Patience o not feel agitated over trifles. Patience brings power- Saints must have patience in abundance.

6. Forgiveness :- When you have the strength to harm somebody, but you forgive him and don’t harm him, you are on the right path.

7. Mercy :- Mercy is a must for meditation. Those who kill animals for palate, cannot imbibe mercy. You kill today and you will be killed tomorrow. That is the Divine law.

8. Tender Heart :- Be of tender heart, and do not be stone-hearted or a hypocrite. Don’t indulge in rebukes and slander. Always speak softly, politely and truthfully.

9. Self-discipline :- Eat less and feel contented. Follow the dictum of the Guru :-

“Eat moderately, sleep less, show mercy and forgiveness and love your prime possession, the real self. (Guru Gobind Singh)

There are three kinds of food that we eat viz. pertaining to

i) tamoguna (ii) rajasguna (iii) satoguna

‘tamas’ food, includes intake of meat, fish, wine eggs etc. This food brings laziness to the man. He is likely to turn away from God and his God-consciousness is diminished. In ‘rajas’ is included pertaining of spicy and rich food for the sake of palate only. Heavy and rich food leads to numerous diseases.’ Eat a bit less than your requirement. ‘Satoguna’ food includes partaking of vegetables, milk, curd, butter and cereals etc. 10. It means purity of mind, purity of body, purity of speech, purity of clothes, and purity of thought. These are ten ‘yam’ principles

THE TEN NIYAM (RULES)

1. Penances and devotion :- Yoke yourself to the service of humanity. Service is of three kinds ie. pertaining to rajas guna, tamas guna and sats guna. The service of Guru is at the top of all the Penances.

2. Charity :- Charity is also of three types – rajas, tamas and sats charity. In tamas, one gives away something in charity under duress and in anger and at inappropriate time which may result in sin. In rajas, one distributes alms to earn glorification. While in sats guna, one gives away in all humility with a faith in the fact that everything is gift of God. This kind of generosity is rewarded.

3. Contentment :- There cannot be full satisfaction without contentment. Unless there is contentment, the mind writhing in desire wanders in wilderness.

4. Theistic intellect means a staunch believer in Guru’s teachings.

5. Worship :- Worship of the Guru. It should not be external and ceremonial only, but with all the mind and soul accepting Guru as embodiment of God.

6. Faith in the shabad of Guru. If you have faith in Gurbani, you will be rewarded. If you sit quietly with closed eyes, but you don’t have in Gurbani, it is of no avail. Have full faith in Gurbani.

7. Abide by teachings of Gurbani. Mould your life accordingly. Don’t go against the tenets of Gurbani.

8. Peaceful Mind :- Let anger not disturb your mind at all, even when provoked by somebody. Keep cool and have perseverance.

9. Nitnem :- Keep regularity in you daily prayers, meditation and recitation of Gurbani.

10. Brahm-hom means feeding the hungry Hom implies burning of ‘I’ and I-am-ness, effacing ego of every type. Inviting Saints and Gursikhs for partaking food is known as Brahm-hom.

These are two disciplines – Yam and Niyam and third is ‘Asan’.

Asan :- Find out quite place, where there is no noise, and where one can sit comfortably without any disturbance. Make a seat (asan) for meditation and use this ‘asan’ daily for prayers and meditation.

from Atam Marg magazine  by Sant Isher Singh ji.

http://khojee.wordpress.com

Section II

The meaning of Sadh or Sant: The English word ‘Saint’ does not mean the same as the ‘Sant’ in Gurbani. The former commonly means someone canonized by the church or the Vatican, while a Sikh Saint or Sant is someone who has achieved spiritual perfection and mastery over the personal self through Guru’s mercy. Being the most humble person on earth, a Sant lives without any regard to recognition by people or by a religious body.

A Sant is an extremely rare soul (1123:3). This should not discourage us, confuse us, or cloud our understanding that Sant is the model of a perfect Sikh, the person that Gurbani urges us to become. As Guru Ji says, “The season comes over and over, but a seed germinates only if it were whole” (468:17), in order to understand Gurmat properly, we must remember that Sikh Panth is an inner journey, a path of Bhakti or Divine love. Without this insight, we can gain only a fragmented understanding of Gurmat.

A Sant is someone who is devoted only to God and always lives in God’s presence. Gurbani emphasizes upon company of a Sant as an essential, so we can learn the correct way (e.g., 999:12, 622:1, 610:7-12). Obviously, these verses are of little value to those who are not mystically inclined, and most people are not. To them, Sant is, at best, an idyllic dream of perfection, a state unattainable in the real world. It is difficult to interpret Gurmat and make it palatable to the masses as well.

Panth thrives only on account of those few Gursikhs who quietly practice the edict ‘Guru Granth and Guru Panth’ in the real sense. Others attempt to reinterpret Gurbani to make it fit us just as we are, as if we, the ordinary and ignorant Sikhs constitute ‘Guru Panth’ and that we do not need to seek someone better and more advanced than us. As a result, instead of aspiring to realize these supreme goals, seeking and respecting our venerated Sikhs, and striving to follow Gurbani as it was meant to be followed, we have succeeded only in lowering its high standards down to the level of our own mediocrity and stolidity. For example, we delegate the recital of our Guru’s Bani to paid singers and CD players. Then we wonder what went wrong. This is sad.

Our greatest foes are not outside. They are living among us. At one extreme are those teachers who misrepresent Gurmat. In an apparent effort to save us from the charlatans, they shroud and suppress our need to adore perfect Gursikhs as our role models, by distorting the meaning in Gurbani. At the other extreme, people revere some individuals as a Guru, when Guru Ji makes it clear that only Shabad, not a person, is the Guru. We also see people creating division in the Sangat, on the basis of which Sant which Jatha or which Dera is genuine. Such acts should be declared off limits in the Panth, because all such acts create splinter groups, destroying our unity. Panth is meant to be a family of humans following one God under the umbrella of Gurbani and Sadh Sangat, not under some person or some religion.

So, what would a Sant look like today? With the institution of Sangat, the Panj Piyare, and with the rules laid down for the Khalsa Panth, if followed correctly, Guru Ji has eliminated all danger from impostors. We submit only to the Panj Piyare in the physical form of the Guru, Guru Granth Ji in the spiritual form, and we seek the company of a Sant in the Sangat, not in someone who claims to be a Sant. Those who claim to be a Guru or a Sant, leading the Sikhs away from mainstream Panth, are the ones we need to worry about. Additionally, we must avoid those teachers who disregard the Rehit prescribed by the tenth Master. Today’s Sikh Sant is a Gursikh who keeps the Rehit of Khalsa, and someone who would not lead people into joining a ‘Jatha’ or a ‘Dera’ and thus, would not engage in fragmentation of the mainstream Sangat.

It is imperative that every Sikh learns to be responsible and not promote someone living as, a Sant. As we know, a “Puran Gursikh” (perfect Sikh) would be an acceptable designation of a Gursikh living today whom we may respect and revere. Ignoring this simple but important rule is, in a way, defiance of the institution of the Panj Piyare. Such acts contradict Guru Ji’s goal to eliminate our differences and to unite us, nay, to unite the entire world some day.

An interesting post by YSL on SikhSangat.

I was listening to katha a few weeks ago:

Dhan Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was on their travels, when they came across a humble servant of the lord who had nothing but a little mud hut to live in. Guru Sahib and Bhai Mardhana Ji decided to grace the humble Gursikh with their presance, agreeing to reside at the hut for the night. This Gursikh was most pleased, he had little to eat in the house, but prepared what he did have for Guru Ji – Bhai Mardhana Ji felt a little sad, knowing this humble servant had very little – and eating out of it.

Guru Sahib knew this and told Bhai Mardhana not to worry, we must live in the will of Vaheguru. The Gursikhs humblessness and love was his everything.

Once they had finished their langar, Guru Sahib looked deep in thought, before asking Bhai Mardhana ji to break the little mud plates they had ben eating on. Bhai Mardhana Ji looked confused, but led a sat-bachni lifestyle and agreed to what Guru Sahib was saying. The Gursikh agreed saying “I’m am your humble slave, whatever you wish, you should do”. So Bhai Mardhana Ji proceeded to break the few belongings the Gursikh had.

The following day, Guru Sahib arose and advised the Gursikh that they would need to continue with their travels. The Gursikhs could not bear the thought of his Guru leaving his home and asked Guru Ji if he could walk some distance with them, and at least spend a little more time in their presance. Guru Ji agreed, and the humble Guriskh followed them on their journey for a very short while.

Before they left their home, Guru ji, again after some deep thought asked Bhai Mardhana Ji to destroy the little mud hut of the Gursikh, at this point, Bhai Mardhana ji questioned Guru Ji and asked why he should destory what little this humble slave had. The Gursikh turned to Bhai Mardhana Ji with pleading eyes and said “Please, do as my Guru say’s – whatever hukam they give you, just adhere to it. Nothing here is mine, it is all Guru Ji’s please” – his pleading came to use and Bhai Mardhana grudgingly proceeded to destory the mud hut.

Guru Ji, Bhai Mardhana Ji and the Gursikh the continue a little of their journey. As night began to fall. The Gursikh advised Guru Ji that he should now be getting back to what little was left of his hut. Guru Ji gave him hukam to do so and blessed the Gursikh for his seva over the course of the night.

As the Gursikh returned to the place where his home used to be, he saw what he considered the blessing of Maharaj Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. As he circled what used to be his home, he noticed a little two foot wall remained – thinking that Bhai Mardhana ji did not complete the task thoroughly he began breaking down the last of the wall….

As he broke down bit after bit, he noticed the ground beneath becoming weaker and seperating, beneath those two foot walls lay a gold mine… This humble servent, amazing Gursikh had been living on a goldmine without knowing about it. Guru Ji’s blessings came in such a disguise, that far from destory everything this humble being had, they in fact gave him more than he ever imagined having…

This is the beauty of our Guru Ji’s blessings – we are all living on Gold mines without actually knowing it. If we, and me especially, lived the life whereby we adhered to every one of our Guru Ji’s hukams, then we too would be rewarded with a gold mine each…

How humbleness, seva, and piyaar can lead us to the most amazing riches in the world – our Guru Ji’s blessings…

Detail explanation of Sant and Bramgyani: ” Written by Yuktanand singh.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa!
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!!

Sadh Sangat and Shabad Guru, these two are important pillars of the Panth. Guru Ji has said, “Have friendship with a Gurmukh, and set your heart on the true Guru” (1421:5). This is our staple in our spiritual journey on this earth. These days, we have the Shabad as our Guru, but we seem to be losing the art of Sadh Sangat. So, here is an article on this difficult and touchy subject.

I have been reluctant to post it because I do not have the time to keep up with discussions and I find myself quite inadequate, just like a fish trying to climb up a tree. But, considering the continued confusion and controversy generated by the so-called saints sprouting everywhere, I have decided to post it.

Please excuse its length. It is divided into six sections. It is difficult to be cognizant of various contentions and still keep it short and free of redundancy. An effort is made to keep it within the tenets of Gurmat. Please offer correction of mistakes.

Section I

During the time of Guru Nanak, there was a Gurmukh who, in his Dharamsal, would serve every holy man passing through his village. He asked all these holy men the same question, “What is the benefit of meeting or serving the Sant or a Sadhu?” Everyone said that one is blessed with happiness, riches, health, long life, children, etc. but being a Gurmukh, he was not satisfied with their answer.

One day he met Guru Nanak and asked him this question. Guru Nanak, instead of explaining it, told him to go in the jungle early in the morning, sit below a certain tree and repeat ‘Waheguru’ for some time. The Gurmukh did exactly as he was told. He noticed a pair of crows sitting on the tree. While he was sitting there they had transformed into white cranes. But he felt that he still did not receive the answer to his question. So Guru Nanak told him to repeat the same the next day.

Next day he noticed that these white cranes turned into swans. He still did not see the answer to his question. So Guru Ji told him to go back. Next morning, while sitting and reciting ‘Waheguru’ he observed that pair of swans transform into humans. They came and sat close to him.

Gurmukh asked them the question also. The pair explained that they were born as crows but upon meeting the Gurmukh, they became cranes, upon meeting him again, they became swans, and then humans. Upon meeting a Sadhu, within the course of three days they were blessed with what would have otherwise taken several lifetimes.

(The above was paraphrased from ‘Divine Mystic Reflections on Gurmat’ p. 183)

Recently, while strolling in a state of spiritual reflection, I saw a pair of crows, and I remembered the incident above. As I approached the crows they flew away the instant they saw me. But they soon returned. Still as crows.

What are the lessons to be learned here? Here are some choices:

1. Such supernatural phenomena occurred only during the time of the Gurus, not today.
2. The pair of crows that returned could be a different pair, not the same that flew away.
3. I am not a Gurmukh. Therefore, it was foolish of me to expect similar results.
4. Sitting early in the morning and repeating ‘Waheguru’ would yield a better outcome.
5. The actual process is much subtler than how it is symbolically presented in those books.
6. Meeting Guru Nanak accelerated the process, so that the Gurmukh learns the lesson quickly.
7. The desire to meet a Gurmukh had turned this Sikh into a Gurmukh, worthy of Darshan himself.
8. Spiritual people teach by example and they avoid arguments and elaborate explanations.
9. Before the advent of Sangat, Dharamsals and Teerath (pilgrimage) facilitated meeting holy people.
10. Truth is always the same. Thus, regardless, the lesson applies to us just as much today as it did then.

In my opinion, the correct choice is all of the above, except the first one. Let us see why meeting a Gurmukh is so important and what is the significance of Sat Sangat.

Sikh Panth is a living Panth. Do we understand what makes it a living path; is it the ordinary Sikhs or a Gurmukh like the one in the episode above? What makes this Panth different and superior than all the religions? Which ingredients assure its survival, undiluted and unadulterated, for the future generations? Most of us would say, Gurbani. But in my opinion, it is the implementation of Gurbani. Not to mention the Khalsa Rehit, but that is a separate subject.

Gurbani lists Sangat as essential to living a normal life as a human (427:6). Sat Sangat is just as important as reading Gurbani, because it transforms our heart so that we can truly understand the message of Gurbani (1316:6-. We need to examine ourselves: is the Sangat working for us in this sense? If not, why not? Do we understand what Sat Sangat means? Does a crowd of people like us represent Sat Sangat? Does the company of others just like us, adequately fulfill all the conditions of being in the Sadh Sangat? In other words, what is the role of a Sadh or a Sant in Sikh Panth?

A series of articles written by Yuktanand Singh will be posted on this important topic.

Summary of Article (will be posted below in installments)
Section I

An introduction to why meeting a Gurmukh is so important and what is the significance of Sat Sangat. In Gurbani, Sangat is listed as essential to living normal life as a human. Sat Sangat is just as important as reading Gurbani, because it transforms our heart so that we can truly understand the message of Gurbani.

Is the Sangat working for us in this sense? If not, why not? Do we understand what Sat Sangat means? Does a crowd of people like us represent Sat Sangat? Does the company of others just like us, adequately fulfill all the conditions of being in the Sadh Sangat? In other words, what is the role of a Sadh or a Sant in Sikh Panth?

Section II

The meaning of Sadh or Sant: A Sikh Saint or Sant is someone who has achieved spiritual perfection and mastery over the personal self through Guru’s mercy. A Sant is an extremely rare soul. But this should not discourage us, confuse us, or cloud our understanding that Sant is the model of a perfect Sikh, the person that Gurbani urges us to become. A Sant is someone who is devoted only to God and always lives in God’s presence.

In an apparent effort to save us from the charlatans, our scholars shroud and suppress our need to adore perfect Gursikhs as our role models, by distorting the meaning in Gurbani. However, the institution of Sangat, the Panj Piyare, and the rules of the Khalsa Panth, eliminate all danger from impostors.

Those who claim to be a Guru or a Sant, leading the Sikhs away from mainstream Panth, are the ones we need to worry about. Additionally, we must avoid those teachers who disregard the Rehit prescribed by the tenth Master. Today’s Sikh Sant is a Gursikh who keeps the Rehit of Khalsa, and someone who would not lead people into joining a ‘Jatha’ or a ‘Dera’ and thus, would not engage in fragmentation of the mainstream Sangat.

Section III

How is a Sant produced? We stay oblivious towards the essence, being busy all our life mistaking the shell for the kernel. Except for that rare individual called Sant, we all vacillate, and thus, we remain imperfect and keep falling off the path. Those rare individuals who seek the kernel, the essence, and through Guru’s mercy, never turn their attention away from it, become perfect and they are known as a Sant. Being in dust from the feet of Sat Sangat, we can learn how to maintain a balance on this path.

Judging by the numerous references to Sant it should be obvious to us that an insight into its meaning, and more importantly, its application is absolutely vital to our understanding of Gurmat and to succeed as a Sikh. The terms, Sikh, Gursikh, Brahmgyani, Gurmukh, Jan or HariJan, Mahapurush, Sadh, and Sant, are the names given to Sikhs at various spiritual stages. The Sant is a sacred and supreme state recognized within the Panth.

Section IV

How do we find a Sant? Since the establishment of Sat Sangat, we no longer wander in search of such an individual and we no longer follow someone who claims to be a Sant. Sadh Sangat is the place to be. Nevertheless, we must have a burning desire to be uplifted through company of such Gursikhs.

Before we can solve our internal problems, we need to remedy our lack of faith in the Panth, its garden, Sat Sangat, and its fruit, the Sant. We may sing and read Gurbani all our life, but without faith, our inner progress remains stunted.

We must help each other in the Sangat by being absorbed in Gurbani with a sincere desire to be uplifted by the Sangat. Sadh Sangat or company of perfect Sikhs is essential. Just as, one lamp lights another. But there is no need to worship such Sikhs. The mere sight of a Sant is uplifting. But first, we need that burning desire to see them. Only then, can we benefit from their company or recognize them.

Section V

If we continue to live as if this goal is unreachable and disregard seeking company of such Sikhs, then, either Gurbani has failed us or we have failed Gurbani. Our faith in Gurbani is valid only if we have a yearning and a hope to meet a perfect Gursikh, sometime soon, within our lifetime. Guru Ji promises that there is always a Sant living somewhere in this world.

Sant is our role model, a testimony to the ultimate triumph of the Guru. Coming to Sangat with a desire to see such a Gursikh is the road towards spiritual awakening. The Shabads regarding the qualities of Sant, as one example given, should be studied carefully.

Guru Nanak introduced a unique method to liberate us en masse: Sat Sangat generated with Gurbani, augmented with music and singing from the heart. Kirtan of GurShabd or God’s Word, in Sadh Sangat can gradually, or instantly, convert ordinary masses into Saints. However, a multitude joined for singing Gurbani, but lacking faith in the outcome of Sangat, succeeds in creating only, a multitude singing Gurbani. Let us never confuse the two as the same.

Section VI

The formula: “Meditate upon the formless God, connect with the Shabad, and seek the glorious sight of the Khalsa” needs to be followed thoroughly, with full faith and conviction. A Sant in the Sikh Panth today would keep the Rehit prescribed by the tenth Master, would dislike being called a Sant or a Guru, and would never lead the Sikhs away from mainstream Sangat into some eccentric group.

These are some important qualities of a perfect Gursikh. Sangat of Guru Khalsa or such perfect Sikhs, and submitting to the Panj Piyare is the foundation of Sikh Panth. Spiritual words of Sri Naranjan Singh Ji on this subject are recorded in this section.

Saints are the only humans truly alive in this world. The rest of us make up the bulk of Sikh Panth. Their company enlivens us. Sant is the lifeblood on Panth. God hides Himself in a Sant’s heart. Guru Ji says, “The sole purpose of a Sant coming into this world is that we remember Naam in their company.”

End of summary