"Guru Nanak Sahib" or "Guru Nanak Dev"?

 

Some time ago, I went to a function where I was stopped by an Uncle Ji. He said to me, "It is incorrect to call Guru Sahib "Guru Nanak Dev Ji". Hindus have corrupted us and added the name "Dev" to claim Guru Nanak Sahib Ji was a Hindu. Instead we should call Guru Sahib - Guru Nanak Sahib Ji or Baba Nanak... Look even Muslims call Guru Sahib - Baba Guru Nanak, not Guru Nanak Dev Ji."

Considering this Uncle Ji was a zealous preacher of the Sikh Rehat Maryada document and would probably have different interpretations to any Gurbani I quote, I thought I would reply back using the Sikh Rehat Maryada document. So I said, "Uncle Ji, the Sikh Rehat Maryada, in the first chapter where it defines a Sikh, states Guru Sahib's name as "Guru Nanak Dev Ji"." He replied, "The scholars at the time the Sikh Rehat Maryada was made were not aware of these things. This is a new discovery by the present day modern scholars of the Panth." I had already guessed who these "modern scholars of the Panth" are, who are more wise than the all the scholars, saints and respected Sikhs from Guru Sahib's time till now.

He continued, "Look "Dev" is a Hindu name. What does it have to do with Sikhi?" I replied, "What about "Guru Angad Dev Ji" and "Guru Arjan Dev Ji"?... Gurbani also mentions Guru Nanak Dev." He replied, "Where "Dev" is mentioned with the Guru, it means "Daivee Shaktee" (possessor of Divine-Power), not "Dev" as a Hindu name that makes the Guru into another Devta (god) of the Hindus." I was thinking, if he accept that "Dev" means the possessor of divinity or divine-power, then what's the problem!

I replied, "Guru Ram Das Ji named his son, "Maha Dev". The third and fourth Gurus' name have "Daas". Guru Nanak Dev Ji's and Guru Ram Das Ji's sons had the name "Chand" in their names. Following your logic, all these names are linked to Hindus names and therefore must be rejected." He replied, "No, you are not getting what I am saying. You are not trying to understand. Guru Nanak Sahib Ji sounds much better than Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Baba Guru Nanak or Pir Nanak, sounds better than Guru Nanak Dev. Guru Nanak Dev is only a modern invention."

The conversation cut short and did not continue. But it made me thinking, how much of a Hindu-phobia some people have that they are coming up with weird theories to reject things that are supported by Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Dasam Bani, the writings of Bhai Gurdaas Ji, and other Panth accepted sources of Sikh history. What next - Hindus drink water, so we have to stop drinking water?

Before getting caught up in anyone's argument, we should always check to see if what the person is saying matches Gurbani. Now, when we read Gurbani, you will realise that Guru Arjan Dev Ji calls the first Guru - "Guru Nanak Dev". See below:

ਕਬੀਰਿ ਧਿਆਇਓ ਏਕ ਰੰਗ ॥ 
kabeer dhiaae-o ek rang ||
Kabeer meditated on the One Lord with love. 

ਨਾਮਦੇਵ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਬਸਹਿ ਸੰਗਿ ॥ 
naam-dev har jeeo basehi sang ||
Naam Dev lived with the Dear Lord. 

ਰਵਿਦਾਸ ਧਿਆਏ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਅਨੂਪ ॥ 
ravi-daas dhiaae prabh anoop ||
Ravi Daas meditated on God, the Incomparably Beautiful. 

ਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਗੋਵਿੰਦ ਰੂਪ ॥੮॥੧॥ 
gur naanak dev govind roop ||8||1||
Guru Nanak Dev is the Embodiment of the Lord of the Universe. ||8||1|| 
(Raag Basant - Guru Arjan Dev Ji - Ang 1192)

Someone else on the Internet claimed, "Look, Guru Sahib it referred the majority of the time as "Guru Nanak" in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. So, even if it "Guru Nanak Dev" is mentioned once in Gurbani, we should "Guru Nanak" instead." Using that logic, makes no sense. What appears more often "Nanak" or "Guru Nanak"? The answer is - "Nanak". So does that mean, we should not say "Guru Nanak", and just refer to Guru Sahib as "Nanak"? I am sure, everyone with some sense would say "no".

Furthermore, there is another Shabad in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, in which Giani Harbans Singh translates the word "Dev" to be attached to the name of Guru Nanak Ji:

ਮਿਲੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜਗਤ ਗੁਰ ਕੇਰੈ ॥੨॥੧॥੩੪॥ 
mil naanak dev jagat gur kerai ||2||1||34||
Please come and meet (Guru) Nanak Dev, the Guru of the World. ||2||1||34||
(Raag Kaanraa - Guru Arjan Dev Ji - Ang 1304)

If people have such a "phobia" with the name "Dev" then what will they do where it says "Guru Arjan Dev" in Gurbani?

ਜਪ੍ਯਉ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ ਅਰਜੁਨ ਦੇਵ ਗੁਰੂ ਫਿਰਿ ਸੰਕਟ ਜੋਨਿ ਗਰਭ ਨ ਆਯਉ ॥੬॥ 
japayo jinh arjun dev guroo fir sankatt jon garabh na aayo ||6|| 
Whoever meditates on Guru Arjun Dev, shall not have to pass through the painful womb of reincarnation ever again. ||6|| 
(Svaiyye Mahalla 5 - Bhatt Mathura - Ang 1409)

Then if study Bhai Gurdaas Ji's Bani, it is clear that he refers to Guru Sahib as "Guru Nanak Dev" as well. In Vaar 1, Bhai Gurdaas Ji clearly gives the title "Guru Nanak Dev Ji" to the first episode relating to Guru Sahib's life:

Pauri 24:

੨੪ : ਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਪਹਿਲਾ ਪ੍ਰਸੰਗ 
24 : gur naanak dev jee daa pahilaa prasang 
First episode of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Then in Vaar 26, there are episodes or Pauris that are given the title of "Guru Nanak Dev":

੨੧ : ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ
21 : guroo naanak dev
Guru Nanak Dev 

੨੨ : ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ22 : guroo naanak dev
Guru Nanak Dev 

੩੦ : ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ30 : guroo naanak dev
Guru Nanak Dev

Then the second Kabit of Bhai Gurdaas Ji, it says Guru Sahib's name as "Nanak Dev" three times:

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਪੂਰਨ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ॥

satigur naanak dev, paarbrahm pooran brahm ॥1॥2॥ 
Vahiguru (Lord) who is transcendental and immanent in the form of Guru Nanak Dev.
(Pauri 1)

ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਪੂਰਨ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ॥੨॥੨॥ 
paar-brahm pooran brahm, satigur naanak dev ॥2॥2॥ 
Satgur (True Guru) Nanak Dev is the immanent form of God.
(Pauri 2)

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਦੇਵ ਦੇਵੀ ਸਭ ਧਿਆਵਹਿ ।

satigur naanak Dev, dev devi sabh dhiaavehi ।

All gods and goddesses contemplate on the True Guru, Guru Nanak Dev. 

(Pauri 3)

 

One can respectfully refer to Guru Sahib as "Satguru Nanak Ji", "Guru Nanak Paatshaah Ji", "Guru Nanak Sahib Ji" or "Guru Nanak Ji". However, if someone criticises someone for respectfully saying "Guru Nanak Dev Ji" and saying it is wrong to say it, then it is pretty clear from the above, that the person claiming such a thing is ill-informed. No modern-day Sikh, irrespective of how much a scholar they may claim to be, can be wiser than Guru Arjan Dev Ji or Bhai Gurdaas Ji.

Inspiration: Bhai Dharam Singh Charitable Trust...

Guru Nanak Dev Ji - The Light of the world...

ਬਲਿਓ ਚਰਾਗੁ ਅੰਧ੍ਯਾਰ ਮਹਿ ਸਭ ਕਲਿ ਉਧਰੀ ਇਕ ਨਾਮ ਧਰਮ ॥ 

balio charaag andhyaar mehi sabh kal udharee ik naam dharam || 

(Guru Nanak is) the lamp lit in the darkness; all are saved in this time, through the One Name and faith in the Dharam (preached by Guru Nanak). 

ਪ੍ਰਗਟੁ ਸਗਲ ਹਰਿ ਭਵਨ ਮਹਿ ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਗੁਰੁ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ॥੯॥ 

pragatt sagal har bhavan mehi jan naanak gur paar-braham ||9|| 

O Lord! It has been revealed in the worlds that Your servant Nanak is God in form of the Guru. ||9|| 

 (Svaiyye Mahalla 5 - Guru Arjan Dev Ji - Ang 1387)

Dhan Baba Deep Singh Ji...

 

 

15th November marks the Shaheedi Divas (martyrdom day) of Anokhe Shaheed (the unique martyr)- Baba Deep Singh Ji. Baba Ji’s Shaheedi (martyrdom) illustrates the power of Amrit, Gurbani and Naam. The All-Powerful Guru can make anything happen. He can make a Sikh smile and recite Japji in bliss whilst being sawn alive, make a Sikh happily accept being cut piece by piece and not move an inch of their body, and make a Sikh fight with their severed head held in the palm of their hand. 

 

Baba Deep Singh Ji was a master 15 languages, scribe of 5 Saroops of Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, a Saint-mystic absorbed in Naam, a Sarbloh warrior that was matchless on the battlefield, a leader that knew how to unite the Panth, a Parchaarik (preacher) who inspired countless, a scholar who learnt the meanings of Gurbani from Satguru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, an embodiment of Seva (selfless-service), and a banner of justice who protected the poor and weak. 

ਪਉੜੀ ॥

pauRee ||

Pauree:

ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਕਹੀਐ ਜੋ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਚਰਣੀ ਜਾਇ ਪਇਆ ॥

dhan dhan so gursikh kahee-ai
jo satgur charnee jaae peyaa ||

Blessed, blessed is that Sikh of the Guru, who goes and falls at the Feet of the True Guru.

ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਕਹੀਐ ਜਿਨਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮਾ ਮੁਖਿ ਰਾਮੁ ਕਹਿਆ ॥

dhan dhan so gursikh kahee-ai
jin har naamaa mukh raam kahiaa ||

Blessed, blessed is that Sikh of the Guru, who with his mouth, utters the Name of the Lord.

ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਕਹੀਐ ਜਿਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਸੁਣਿਐ ਮਨਿ ਅਨਦੁ ਭਇਆ ॥

dhan dhan so gursikh kahee-ai
jis har naam suni-ai man anad bheyaa ||

Blessed, blessed is that Sikh of the Guru, whose mind, upon hearing the Lord's Name, becomes blissful.

ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਕਹੀਐ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਵਾ ਕਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਲਇਆ ॥

dhan dhan so gursikh kahee-ai
jin satgur sevaa kar har naam leyaa ||

Blessed, blessed is that Sikh of the Guru, who serves the True Guru, and so obtains the Lord's Name.

ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੰਉ ਹੰਉ ਸਦਾ ਨਮਸਕਾਰੀ ਜੋ ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਭਾਣੈ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਚਲਿਆ ॥੧੮॥

tis gursikh kau hau sadaa namaskaaree
jo gur kai bhaanai gursikh chaliaa ||18||

I bow forever in deepest respect to that Sikh of the Guru, who walks in the Way of the Guru. ||18||

(Raag Vadhans - Guru Amar Daas Ji - Ang 593)

INFORMATION FOR NON-SIKHS: THE SIKH DIWALI...

THE SIKH DIWALI:

BANDI CHHOR DIVAS
(THE DAY OF LIBERATION)

This Wednesday marked the Sikh festival of ‘Bandi Chhor Divas’ (also spent ‘Bandi Shhor Divas’), which coincides with the Indian cultural festival and holiday of Diwali. This whole week Sikhs across the world will be celebrating this festival.

Bandi Chhor Divas, literally meaning the day of liberation, celebrates the release of the sixth Guru of the Sikhs from prison along with fifty-two other political prisoners whose release was secured by the Guru’s refusal to leave prison without them in 1619.

The 17th century intolerant and cruel Emperor of India, wary of those who might oppose his tyrannical rule, arrested the sixth Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who was speaking up for social and religious justice and fighting injustice. Others were also imprisoned in a fort converted as a prison called the Gwalior Fort.

After falling in and receiving advice from various saints, the Emperor realised his error in imprisoning the Guru in which the Light of God shined. As the festival of Diwali approached, the Emperor ordered the release of the Great Guru. To his surprise, the Guru refused to leave unless all the other political prisoners were released at the same time.

The Emperor decided to compromise and said that anyone who could hold onto the Guru’s clothes could be freed with him. He thought that at the most, two or three of his fellow prisoners would be able to go with the Guru through the fort’s narrow passage to freedom. In the event, the Guru walked to freedom followed by all the 52 political prisoners holding onto robe made with 52 flowing segments sewn to it. The Guru became known as ‘Bandi Chhor Daathaa’ (the Giver of Freedom).

The story reminds Sikhs to put the wellbeing of others before our own; in this case the freedom and human rights of the Guru’s fellow captives. Bandi Chhor Divas is a useful reminder to the rest of us to make concern for others part of our daily lives.

Amritsar Visit: Meeting the 'Karhah Prashaad' Sevadaars

Some years ago I watched a video documentary on YouTube that was made by a non-Sikh lady on how Karhah Prashaad is made at Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji. It was very disappointing to see that in the video documentary a non-Amritdhari with cut-hair helping to cook the Karhah Parshaad and then those who carry the Prashaad from the Kitchen were non-Amritdhari cut-haired individuals. Sikh Rehat Maryada was clearly being violated. It was disheartening that where the tradition of Langar being prepared and served by the Khalsa has been mostly lost in the Panth, now the tradition of the Karhah Prashaad being made and served by the Khalsa was lost in the most central shrine of the Sikhs.

ਰਹਿਤ ਬਿਨਾ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦ ਵਰਤਾਵਹਿ |…ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਜਮ ਕਰੈ ਖੁਆਰ |੧੦| 
“A person who doesn’t maintain Rehat distributes Prashaad… Guru Gobind Singh Ji says that that person will be disgraced when death comes.”
(Thankhahnama: Bhai Nand Lal Ji, p. 58

During last month's visit to Panjab, I decided to find out where and how the Karhah Prashaad is made at Sri Harmandir Sahib. When I went to the Karhah Prashaad counter and asked the Sevadaar that I would like to see where Prashaad was made, the Sevadaar replied politely that we can come behind the counter through a door further down. When we entered the area, I was surprised that all the Sevadaars were so welcoming and friendly. There was a small room where the manager for the Karhah Prashaad sat. He, along with all of his colleagues were so friendly and polite. We were welcomed and given full respect. We explained that we wished to see where the Karhah Prashaad is made. A Sevadaar took us up some narrow steps that spiralled upwards. It would be difficult for an outsider to to venture upwards without being guided. Upstairs there was a room that had no windows and was hot. There were a number of large Sarbloh Karhaahees on large stoves. 

There was one Singh preparing the Karhah Prashaad. In one Karhaahee there was a mixture of sugar and water being boiled, and in another the Karhah Prashaad was being made. The Sevadaar told us that he is Amrithari, and that only Amritdharis are allowed to cook Karhah Prashaad. He said unauthorised persons are not allowed in this area, however the cleaners are sometimes non-Amritdharis and sometimes guests may come up to view what is happening, however the cooking and transporting of the Karhah Prashaad is done by Amritdhari employees of the SGPC. 

 

When we went back downstairs we went pass the area manager's office to say thanks. All the Sevadaars were again so polite and welcoming. I shared how I had seen a video documentary on Sri Harmandir Sahib and hence I wanted to see where and how Karhah Prashaad was cooked. The Sevadaars explained that the documentary must have shown Karhah being cooked in the Kitchen of Guru Ram Das Langar. He explained that they have Karhah or Halwa as a dessert, and in the cooking of Langar the rules are relaxed, even though in theory it should be only Amritdharis cooking and serving.

The Sevadaar shared that the Karhah Prashaad served in the early morning hours at Sri Darbar Sahib comes from the Dera of Baba Sham Singh. This Degh is made and served by Rehatvaan Singhs and is eaten by Bibekis and Sarblohis. The Degh offered within the inner sanctum of Sri Darbar Sahib, i.e. the Degh that is offered into your hands whilst sitting down in Sri Darbar Sahib, is made and served by Amritdhari employees of the SGPC. However, the manager shared that the Degh served outside at the entrance and exist of Sri Darbar Sahib near Darshani Deori, has Karhah Parshaad touched by non-Amritdharis. The reason for this is that anyone and everyone can get Prashaad from the counter, which is given in leaves or a steel plate. They take it up to the Prashaad counter near Darshani Deori to have Kirpan Bhet (tucked with a Kirpan). Half the Prashaad is put in a large serving vessel and the the rest the individual keeps. So all the Karhah Prashaad collected in the large serving vessel that is later distributed at the Darshani Deori by Sevadaars who standing and ready to distribute Prashaad, is not suitable for Bibeki Singhs.

ਭਾਦਣੀ, ਹੁਕਈ, ਕੁਰਹਿਤੀਏ ਪਾਸੋਂ ਕੜਾਹ (ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦ) ਕਰਾਏ, ਸੋ ਤਨਖਾਹੀਆ |
“One who gets a shaven-head person, a smoker, or someone who has committed a Kurehat (cardinal prohibition) to give Prashaad, becomes liable for Thankhaah (religious disciplinary action).”
(Thankhahnama: Bhai Chaupa Singh Ji, p. 102)

I then asked about the "Pinni Prashaad" that is offered in packets. They explained that "Pinni" is just a name. It's not actually a "Pinni". The "Pinni Prashaad" is actually Karhah Prashaad mixture without water, which is packed by Amritdharis in a room next to the office we were sitting. I was told if you add hot water to the mixture in the packet, you would get Karhah Prashaad. The "Pinni Prashaad" was for those people who for whatever reason, e.g. health reason, cannot visit Sri Darbar Sahib, but wish to have Prashaad.

Interview: Story of Bhai Pal Singh (France)

"ਪੁਲਸ ਮੈਨੂੰ ਕੁੱਟਦੀ ਰਹੀ ਤੇ ਮੈਂ ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਦਾ ਜਾਪ ਕਰਦਾ ਰਿਹਾ..."

"The Police kept beating me, and I kept chanting Vahiguru..."

Remembering the 1984 Indian State Sponsored Genocide of Sikhs...

Gurbani: What happens to those who are filled with jealosy and spread lies?

Raag Gauree - Guru Raam Daas Ji - Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - Ang 308

ਸਲੋਕ ਮਃ ੪ ॥ 

salok mahallaa chauthhaa ||

Salok, Fourth Nanak: 

ਜਿਸੁ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਤਾਤਿ ਪਰਾਈ ਹੋਵੈ ਤਿਸ ਦਾ ਕਦੇ ਨ ਹੋਵੀ ਭਲਾ ॥ 

jis andar taat paraaee hovai tis daa kadhe na hovee bhallaa ||

One whose heart is filled with jealousy of others, never comes to any good. 

ਓਸ ਦੈ ਆਖਿਐ ਕੋਈ ਨ ਲਗੈ ਨਿਤ ਓਜਾੜੀ ਪੂਕਾਰੇ ਖਲਾ ॥ 

ous dai aakhi-ai koee na laggai nit o-jaaRee pookaare khallaa ||

No one trusts what they say; they are just like fools crying out endlessly in the wilderness. 

ਜਿਸੁ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਚੁਗਲੀ ਚੁਗਲੋ ਵਜੈ ਕੀਤਾ ਕਰਤਿਆ ਓਸ ਦਾ ਸਭੁ ਗਇਆ ॥ 

jis andar chuglee chuglo vajjai keetaa kartiaa ous daa sabh gayaa ||

One whose heart is filled with malicious gossip gets fame by their malicious gossip; and everything they have done in the past goes to vain. 

ਨਿਤ ਚੁਗਲੀ ਕਰੇ ਅਣਹੋਦੀ ਪਰਾਈ ਮੁਹੁ ਕਢਿ ਨ ਸਕੈ ਓਸ ਦਾ ਕਾਲਾ ਭਇਆ ॥ 

nit chuglee kare anhondee paraaee muhu kaddh na sakkai ous daa kaalaa bheyaa ||

Night and day, they continually make false gossip about others; and because of their faces becoming blackened, they cannot show themselves to anyone. 

ਕਰਮ ਧਰਤੀ ਸਰੀਰੁ ਕਲਿਜੁਗ ਵਿਚਿ ਜੇਹਾ ਕੋ ਬੀਜੇ ਤੇਹਾ ਕੋ ਖਾਏ ॥ 

karam dhartee sareer kaljug vich jehaa ko beeje tehaa ko khaae ||

In this Dark Age of Kalyug, the body is the field of karma; as you plant, so shall you harvest. 

ਗਲਾ ਉਪਰਿ ਤਪਾਵਸੁ ਨ ਹੋਈ ਵਿਸੁ ਖਾਧੀ ਤਤਕਾਲ ਮਰਿ ਜਾਏ ॥ 

gallaa(n) upar tapaavas na hoee vis khaadhee tatkaal mar jaae ||

Justice regarding our karma is not passed on mere words; if someone eats poison (even if they talk about eternal life) they die immediately. 

ਭਾਈ ਵੇਖਹੁ ਨਿਆਉ ਸਚੁ ਕਰਤੇ ਕਾ ਜੇਹਾ ਕੋਈ ਕਰੇ ਤੇਹਾ ਕੋਈ ਪਾਏ ॥ 

bhaee vekhahu niaa-o sach karte kaa jehaa koee kare tehaa koee paae ||

O Brother! Look at the justice of the True Creator; as people act, so they are rewarded. 

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਉ ਸਭ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਈ ਹਰਿ ਦਰ ਕੀਆ ਬਾਤਾ ਆਖਿ ਸੁਣਾਏ ॥੧॥ 

jan naanak kau sabh sojhee paaee har dar keeaa baataa aakh sunaae ||1||

O Nanak! That servant who is blessed by the Lord with all this understanding; they speak of these words of the Lord's Court. ||1|| 

Video: ਇਹ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਦੇਖ ਕੇ ਨਿੰਦਕ ਕੰਬ ਉਠਣਗੇ । Consequences of Ninda

Another very informative and well presented video from the Gurmat Bibek team:

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ਆਮ ਤੌਰ ਤੇ ਨਿੰਦਿਆ ਕਰਨ ਦਾ ਬੜਾ ਸੁਆਦ ਆਉਂਦਾ ਹੈ ਪਰ ਇਹ ਪਾਪ ਕਰਨ ਦੇ ਨਤੀਜੇ ਬਹੁਤ ਭਿਆਨਕ ਹਨ। ਅਸੀਂ ਅਜ ਦੀ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਵਿਚ ਨਿੰਦਿਆ ਕਰਨ ਦੀ ਜੋ ਸਜ਼ਾ ਮਿਲਦੀ ਹੈ, ਉਸ ਬਾਰੇ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਦੇ ਆਧਾਰ ਤੇ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਕਰਾਂਗੇ। ਆਪ ਜੀ ਇਹ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਜ਼ਰੂਰ ਦੇਖੋ ਜੀ। 

People find pleasure in slandering and badmouthing others but if they knew the terrible consequences of doing so, they would definitely avoid it. This is the third video in the “Ninda” series in which we discuss in details what repercussions one has to face if one badmouths other people. Please do watch this video and share with others as well. 

If you have any questions or if you have any suggestions, kindly contact us at +1-647-771-5359. 

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What pleases Vahiguru and is most profitable?

Raag Malaar - Guru Amar Daas Ji - Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - Ang 1285 

ਪਉੜੀ ॥ 

Pauree: 

ਸਚਾ ਅਲਖ ਅਭੇਉ ਹਠਿ ਨ ਪਤੀਜਈ ॥ 

 The True, Unseen, Mysterious Lord is not won over by our stubbornness. 

(ਜੀਵਾਂ ਦੇ) ਹਠ ਨਾਲ (ਭਾਵ, ਕਿਸੇ ਹਠ-ਕਰਮ ਨਾਲ) ਉਹ ਸੱਚਾ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਰਾਜ਼ੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੁੰਦਾ ਜੋ ਅਦ੍ਰਿਸ਼ਟ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਜਿਸ ਦਾ ਭੇਤ ਨਹੀਂ ਪਾਇਆ ਜਾ ਸਕਦਾ । 

ਇਕਿ ਗਾਵਹਿ ਰਾਗ ਪਰੀਆ ਰਾਗਿ ਨ ਭੀਜਈ ॥ 

 Some people sing according to traditional Raags (musical measures), but the Lord is not pleased even by these Raags. 

ਕਈ ਲੋਕ ਰਾਗ ਰਾਗਣੀਆਂ ਗਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ, ਪਰ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਰਾਗ ਨਾਲ ਭੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਪ੍ਰਸੰਨ ਹੁੰਦਾ; 

ਇਕਿ ਨਚਿ ਨਚਿ ਪੂਰਹਿ ਤਾਲ ਭਗਤਿ ਨ ਕੀਜਈ ॥ 

Some people dance and dance and keep the beat, but in this devotional worship cannot take place. 

ਕਈ ਬੰਦੇ ਨੱਚ ਨੱਚ ਕੇ ਤਾਲ ਪੂਰਦੇ ਹਨ, ਪਰ (ਇਸ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਭੀ ਭਗਤੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾ ਸਕਦੀ; 

ਇਕਿ ਅੰਨੁ ਨ ਖਾਹਿ ਮੂਰਖ ਤਿਨਾ ਕਿਆ ਕੀਜਈ ॥ 

 Some people refuse to eat grain; but what can be done about these fools? (They do not understand that the Lord is not pleased this way). 

ਕਈ ਮੂਰਖ ਬੰਦੇ ਅੰਨ ਨਹੀਂ ਖਾਂਦੇ, ਪਰ (ਦੱਸੋ) ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦਾ ਕੀਹ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਏ? (ਇਹਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਸਮਝਾਈਏ ਕਿ ਇਸ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਖ਼ੁਸ਼ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾ ਸਕਦਾ) । 

ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਹੋਈ ਬਹੁਤੁ ਕਿਵੈ ਨ ਧੀਜਈ ॥ 

 (Through these stubborn-actions) the ever increasing thirst and desire (of the soul) is not calmed and satisfied. 

(ਜੀਵ ਦੀ) ਵਧੀ ਹੋਈ ਤ੍ਰਿਸ਼ਨਾ (ਇਹਨਾਂ ਹਠ-ਕਰਮਾਂ ਨਾਲ) ਕਿਸੇ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਭੀ ਸ਼ਾਂਤ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾ ਸਕਦੀ; 

ਕਰਮ ਵਧਹਿ ਕੈ ਲੋਅ ਖਪਿ ਮਰੀਜਈ ॥ 

 If people of different world increase the ritualistic practices here, even then will hassle themselves to death. 

ਭਾਵੇਂ ਕਈ ਹੋਰ ਧਰਤੀਆਂ (ਦੇ ਬੰਦਿਆਂ ਦੇ) ਕਰਮ-ਕਾਂਡ (ਇਥੇ) ਵਧ ਜਾਣ (ਤਾਂ ਭੀ) ਖਪ ਕੇ ਹੀ ਮਰੀਦਾ ਹੈ । 

ਲਾਹਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਸੰਸਾਰਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਜਈ ॥ 

 In this world, profit comes by drinking the spiritual-life giving Nectar of Naam. 

ਜਗਤ ਵਿਚ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦਾ ਨਾਮ ਹੀ ਖੱਟੀ ਹੈ, ਆਤਮਕ ਜੀਵਨ ਦੇਣ ਵਾਲਾ ਨਾਮ-ਜਲ ਹੀ ਪੀਣਾ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ । 

ਹਰਿ ਭਗਤੀ ਅਸਨੇਹਿ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਘੀਜਈ ॥੧੭॥ 

 The Guru-centred individuals drown in the love of the Lord through His devotional meditation. ||17|| 

ਗੁਰੂ ਦੇ ਸਨਮੁਖ ਰਹਿਣ ਵਾਲਾ ਮਨੁੱਖ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦੀ ਬੰਦਗੀ ਨਾਲ ਤੇ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦੇ ਪਿਆਰ ਨਾਲ ਭਿੱਜਦਾ ਹੈ ।੧੭।

Discussion with a Muslim and Christian... (Part 2)

 

Continued...

The Christian man then said, "Do you believe that all religions are the same and lead to the same goal?"

I replied, "All religions seek God's Grace, however, their end goals or objectives are not the same... A Christian strives to get to Heaven. A Muslim strives to get to Paradise. A Buddhist strives to achieve Nirvaana or stillness of the mind. A Hindu strives to get to Indarpuri or Shivpuri or the hereafter where their deities reside. On the other hand, a Sikh neither strives for Heaven or Paradise. For a Sikh, the ultimate goal is -- Darshan -- that is to have the Divine-Vision of God whilst alive and ultimately staying in God's Presence forever."

The Muslims man said, "That's similar to what some Sufis say. For them true paradise is being with God, and the true hell is being separated from God." 

The Christian man said, "So, you believe in life after death?"

I replied, "Yes, we accept there is life after death and in reincarnation."

The Christian man said, "So, you just keep getting re-born, over and again?"

I replied, "Whilst one has an ego, you will keep being re-born and die in the reincarnation cycle. The only way to escape re-birth and death is by killing ones ego. This is the Path of the Guru. The Guru shows us the way to shed our ego and become God-like. If God is All-Truth, then falsehood cannot exist with Him. Therefore, we have to rid ourselves of all our falsehoods and vices and purify ourselves through His Praise, His meditation, and living in His way that we can become truthful and able to enjoy His Grace."

Discussion with a Muslim and Christian... (Part 1)

 

A Muslim man asked me, "Who is Guru Nanak for you?" 

I replied, "There is one God. Guru Nanak is God revealed to humanity in a human body. Before Guru Nanak, many prophets and saints came to this earth, but then God Himself decided to come on earth in the form of Guru Nanak." 

The Muslim man then said, "But Sikhism only started about 500 years ago. What was before that? So no God never talked to humanity before that?"

I replied, "God has always communicated with humans. However, those who received the message of God and communicated with Him were also the rare few. The rare few were those saints and spiritual mystics who had earned so much spiritual wealth and shed their ego that God blessed them. With the coming of Guru Nanak, communication with the Divine was made easier and accessible to the masses."

The Muslim man then said, "Okay. So name me names of people who talked to God or communicated with God before Guru Nanak? In Islam, it starts with the first human - Adam. Adam was a Prophet."

I replied, "Well, we don't believe in the story of Adam and Eve. The story of Adam and Eve is a story based on the religions of the Middle East (i.e. Judaism, Christianity and Islam). God spoke to countless saints throughout history. We call them 'Bhagats'. Many names are mentioned in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji."

To be continued...

Gyaan Guru or Shabad Guru?

ਗਿਆਨ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਹਿ ਕਹਿ ਕੇ, ਅਜਕਲ ਭਟਕੇ ਹੋਏ ਪਰਚਾਰਕ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਮਰਾਹ ਕਰ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ। ਸਦੀਆਂ ਤੋਂ ਸਿਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਬੱਚਾ ਬੱਚਾ ਜਾਣਦਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਦਸ ਜਾਮੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਹੁਣ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਨ ਪਰ ਹੁਣ ਸ਼ੰਕਾਵਾਦੀ ਪਰਚਾਰਕ ਗਲਤ ਪਰਚਾਰ ਕਰ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ ਕਿ ਫੋਕਾ ਕਿਤਾਬੀ ਗਿਆਨ ਹੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ। ਸਾਡੀ ਅਜ ਦੀ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਬਹੁਤ ਮਹੱਤਵਪੂਰਨ ਹੈ ਕਿਉਂਕਿ ਇਸ ਵਿਚ ਗਿਆਨ ਗੁਰੂ ਦੇ ਮਿਥਿਆ ਸਿਧਾਂਤ ਦਾ ਜ਼ਬਰਦਸਤ ਖੰਡਨ ਕੀਤਾ ਗਿਆ ਹੈ। ਆਪ ਜੀ ਜ਼ਰੂਰ ਦੇਖਣ ਦੀ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੋ ਅਤੇ ਹੋਰਨਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਸ਼ੇਅਰ ਵੀ ਕਰੋ।

Nowadays some skeptical and atheist-minded preachers are preaching that “Gyaan” (knowledge) is Guru and they are denying the Guruship to Guru Nanak Dev jee and subsequent 9 Gurus. Our today’s video is very important and relevant because it contains a vigorous refutation of the so-called “Gyaan Guru” concept. Kindly watch this video keenly and share with others so that all may benefit from it.  

Gurbani on demi-gods...

Raag Aasaa - Guru Amar Daas Ji - Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - Ang 422 

ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੇ ਕਉ ਦੀਏ ਪੜਿ ਪੜਿ ਕਰੇ ਵੀਚਾਰੀ ॥ 

chaare ved brahme kou dee-e paR paR kare veechaaree || 

(Brahma is considered a great demi-god that is believed that) Brahma was given the four Vedas (to write down, and), he reads again and again and reflecting upon them. 

(ਹੇ ਭਾਈ! ਬ੍ਰਹਮਾ ਇਤਨਾ ਵੱਡਾ ਦੇਵਤਾ ਮੰਨਿਆ ਗਿਆ ਹੈ, ਕਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਨ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਨੇ) ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਬ੍ਰਹਮਾ ਨੂੰ ਦਿੱਤੇ (ਬ੍ਰਹਮਾ ਨੇ ਚਾਰੇ ਵੇਦ ਰਚੇ, ਉਹ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ) ਮੁੜ ਮੁੜ ਪੜ੍ਹਕੇ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਹੀ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਕਰਦਾ ਰਿਹਾ । 

ਤਾ ਕਾ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਨ ਬੂਝੈ ਬਪੁੜਾ ਨਰਕਿ ਸੁਰਗਿ ਅਵਤਾਰੀ ॥੬॥ 

taa kaa hukam na boojhai bapuRaa narak surag avtaaree ||6|| 

The unfortunate person does not understand following God's Command is the true way of life, and is instead stuck in thoughts of reincarnation into heaven and hell. ||6|| 

ਉਹ ਵਿਚਾਰਾ ਇਹ ਨਾਹ ਸਮਝ ਸਕਿਆ ਕਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦਾ ਹੁਕਮ ਮੰਨਣਾ ਸਹੀ ਜੀਵਨ-ਰਾਹ ਹੈ, ਉਹ ਨਰਕ ਸੁਰਗ ਦੀਆਂ ਵਿਚਾਰਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਹੀ ਟਿਕਿਆ ਰਿਹਾ ।੬। 

ਜੁਗਹ ਜੁਗਹ ਕੇ ਰਾਜੇ ਕੀਏ ਗਾਵਹਿ ਕਰਿ ਅਵਤਾਰੀ ॥ 

jugeh jugeh ke raaje kee-e gaavehi kar avtaaree || 

In each and every age, God created holy kings, who were venerated by people as Avatars (incarnations) of God and sung of. 

(ਹੇ ਭਾਈ! ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਨੇ ਰਾਮ ਕ੍ਰਿਸ਼ਨ ਆਦਿਕ) ਆਪੋ ਆਪਣੇ ਜੁਗ ਦੇ ਮਹਾਂ ਪੁਰਖ ਪੈਦਾ ਕੀਤੇ, ਲੋਕ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ (ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦਾ) ਅਵਤਾਰ ਮੰਨ ਕੇ ਸਲਾਹੁੰਦੇ ਚਲੇ ਆ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ । 

ਤਿਨ ਭੀ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ ਤਾ ਕਾ ਕਿਆ ਕਰਿ ਆਖਿ ਵੀਚਾਰੀ ॥੭॥ 

tin bhee ant na paayaa taa kaa kyaa kar aakh veechaaree ||7|| 

Even they have not found God's limits; what can I speak of (God's Virtues) and contemplate (His Greatness)? ||7|| 

ਉਹਨਾਂ ਨੇ ਭੀ ਉਸ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦੇ ਗੁਣਾਂ ਦਾ ਅੰਤ ਨਾਹ ਲੱਭਾ । (ਮੈਂ ਕੀਹ ਵਿਚਾਰਾ ਹਾਂ?) ਮੈਂ ਕੀਹ ਆਖ ਕੇ ਉਸ ਦੇ ਗੁਣਾਂ ਦਾ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਕਰ ਸਕਦਾ ਹਾਂ? ।੭।

Gurbani on the Vedas...

  
Raag Saarang - Guru Angad Dev Ji - Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - Ang 1243 

ਸਲੋਕ ਮਃ ੨ ॥  

salok mahallaa doojaa || 

Salok, Second Guru:

ਕਥਾ ਕਹਾਣੀ ਬੇਦੀਂ ਆਣੀ ਪਾਪੁ ਪੁੰਨੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ 

kathaa kahaanee bedee(n) aanee paap punn beechaar || 

(The Hindu religious books of) the Vedas just bring forth stories and legends, and give instructions on what vice is and what virtue is. 

(ਜੋ) ਤਾਲੀਮ ਵੇਦਾਂ ਨੇ ਲਿਆਂਦੀ (ਭਾਵ, ਦਿੱਤੀ), (ਉਸ ਵਿਚ ਇਹ) ਵਿਚਾਰ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਪਾਪ ਕੀਹ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਪੁੰਨ ਕੀਹ ਹੈ, 

ਦੇ ਦੇ ਲੈਣਾ ਲੈ ਲੈ ਦੇਣਾ ਨਰਕਿ ਸੁਰਗਿ ਅਵਤਾਰ ॥ 

de de lainaa lai lai denaa narak surag avtaar || 

(The Vedas tell that) what is given, they receive (back), and what is received, they give back (in the next life). (According to one's Karma) they are told they are reincarnated in heaven and hell. 

(ਉਸ ਨੇ ਇਹ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਹੱਥੋਂ) ਦੇ ਕੇ ਹੀ (ਮੁੜ) ਲਈਦਾ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਜੋ ਕੁਝ ਕਿਸੇ ਤੋਂ ਲੈਂਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਉਹ (ਅਗਲੇ ਜਨਮ ਵਿਚ) ਮੋੜੀਦਾ ਹੈ, (ਆਪਣੇ ਕੀਤੇ ਕਰਮਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ) ਨਰਕ ਵਿਚ ਜਾਂ ਸੁਰਗ ਵਿਚ ਅੱਪੜੀਦਾ ਹੈ, 

ਉਤਮ ਮਧਿਮ ਜਾਤੀਂ ਜਿਨਸੀ ਭਰਮਿ ਭਵੈ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ 

utam madhim jaatee(n) jinsee bharam bhavai sansaar || 

(The Vedas have made) people being classed high and low, social class and status and makes the world wander in superstition. 

(ਇਸ ਤਾਲੀਮ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ) ਦੁਨੀਆ ਉੱਚੀਆਂ ਨੀਵੀਆਂ ਜਾਤਾਂ ਤੇ ਕਿਸਮਾਂ ਦੇ ਵਹਿਮਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਖ਼ੁਆਰ ਹੁੰਦੀ ਹੈ । 

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਤਤੁ ਵਖਾਣੀ ਗਿਆਨ ਧਿਆਨ ਵਿਚਿ ਆਈ ॥ 

amrit baanee tat vakhaanee giaan dhiaan vich aayee || 

(However,) the spiritual-life (Amrit) filled Gurbani speaks of the ultimate Truth because it's spiritual wisdom has been revealed through pure meditation are contained within it (which are obtained through contemplation of the Word). 

(ਪਰ ਗੁਰੂ ਦੀ) ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਅਸਲੀ ਗਲ ਦਸਦੀ ਹੈ (ਕਿਉਂਕਿ ਇਹ ਬਾਣੀ) ਨਿਰਮਲ ਧਿਆਨ ਦੀ (ਅਵਸਥਾ) ਵਿਚ ਆਈ (ਪ੍ਰਗਟ ਹੋਈ) ਹੈ।

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਆਖੀ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਤੀ ਸੁਰਤੀਂ ਕਰਮਿ ਧਿਆਈ ॥ 

 gurmukh aakhee gurmukh jaatee surtee(n) karam dhiaayee || 

The Guru Himself revealed Gurbani and realized it; and conscious beings (through the Guru's Grace) have meditated upon it.
ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨੇ ਉਚਾਰੀ ਹੈ, (ਜਿਸ ਦੇ ਡੂੰਘੇ ਭੇਤ ਨੂੰ) ਗੁਰੂ ਨੇ ਸਮਝਿਆ ਹੈ ਤੇ (ਜਿਸ ਨੂੰ) ਸੁਰਤਿਆਂ ਨੇ ਜਪਿਆ ਹੈ 

ਹੁਕਮੁ ਸਾਜਿ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਰਖੈ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਵੇਖੈ ॥ 

 hukam saaj hukmai vich rakhai hukmai andar vekhai ||

(Gurbani tells us that) by the Divine-Order of His Command, He formed the Universe, and in His Divine-Order, He keeps it. By His Divine-Order, He keeps it under His Gaze. 

ਇਹ ਬਾਣੀ ਦੱਸਦੀ ਹੈ ਕਿ) ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਆਪਣਾ ਹੁਕਮ (-ਰੂਪ ਸੱਤਿਆ) ਸਾਜ ਕੇ (ਸਭ ਜੀਵਾਂ ਨੂੰ) ਆਪਣੇ ਹੁਕਮ ਵਿਚ ਹੀ ਰੱਖਿਆ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਹੁਕਮ ਵਿਚ ਹੀ ਸੰਭਾਲ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੈ । 

ਨਾਨਕ ਅਗਹੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਤੁਟੈ ਤਾਂ ਕੋ ਲਿਖੀਐ ਲੇਖੈ ॥੧॥ 

naanak agahu haumai tuTai taa(n) ko likhee-ai lekhai ||1|| 

O Nanak! (Through meditation of Gurbani) an individual's ego is first shattered and only then they are accounted and approved of (in the Presence of the Lord). ||1|| 

ਹੇ ਨਾਨਕ! (ਇਸ ਬਾਣੀ ਦੀ ਬਰਕਤਿ ਨਾਲ) ਪਹਿਲਾਂ (ਜੀਵ ਦੀ) ਹਉਮੈ ਦੂਰ ਹੁੰਦੀ ਹੈ ਤਾਂ ਜੀਵ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦੀ ਹਜ਼ੂਰੀ ਵਿਚ ਪ੍ਰਵਾਨ ਹੁੰਦਾ ਹੈ ।੧।

"I was expecting my son-in-law to look like you..."

 
Last week I was invited to an event and came across a lovely Jewish couple. As soon as they saw me their faces lit up with warm smiles and they hand shook me. The lady said, "You look wonderful. Do you always dress like this everyday?" I replied, "Yes, I wear traditional Sikh dress everyday." She responded, "Well, it looks amazing... What's the white scarf you are wearing?" I replied, "It was tradition for servants to have a scarf around their neck. As a Sikh I am the servant of God. The white reminds us to be humble servants of God. When a Sikh is performing a religious duty or service, they wear it around their neck." 

Then the man with a smile said, "Looking at you, I wish I had dressed in my traditional religious dress.... I should at least cover my head with Kippah (Jewish skull cup)." He then pulled out his Kippah from his pocket and covered his head.

"My daughter is married to a Sikh," said the man. I asked, "So, he has uncut hair and a turban?" "No... he is supposed to be a Sikh, but there is nothing Sikh about the way he looks, how he lives or anything else really... a great shame really," he replied. "I was expecting my son-in-law to look like you when my daughter told me that her partner was a Sikh. I was so excited and looked forward to see him and his family. I researched Sikhism to make sure I knew everything about the religion and didn't cause any offense. However, when I met him and his family, they had cut-hair, drank alcohol, ate meat and didn't talk or take any interest in the Sikh religion. On the other hand, I was so eager to have a really good conversation and learn more about the Sikh faith." I said, "So you really mean that he was of 'Sikh heritage' as supposed to an actual Sikh?" "Yes... you are right," he said.

"Researching the Sikh religion I was so fascinated. I expected your religion to be very aggressive because of the swords you wear and your martial history. But I realised you are the most peace-loving religion and your beliefs and practices are wonderful. Trying to relate it to religious traditions I knew, the nearest match I could make was Quakerism. Both Quakers and Sikhs believe and practice equality, see God's presence in all and are dedicated to selfless service and meditation.... I was disappointed that my son-in-law does not follow his faith.... I was looking forward to people with long beards, turbans and dressed in traditional Sikh attire to come on horses through our little English village on the wedding day. But I was really disappointed that no one is his family or friends had a beard and turban. The whole village would have been delighted to have seen Sikhs. It would have been an unforgettable memory. But what can we do?"

With a heavy heart he said, "My daughter wants the children to be connected to their Sikh roots and goes out of her way to take them to the Gurdwara, but her husband is not bothered. We want the grand-children to learn Punjabi, however his family are insistent in not teaching the children Punjabi. I cannot understand why, and it is just a great shame, considering what a wonderful religion Sikhism is."

Vahiguru and the mirror...

 

Raag Kaanraa - Bhagat Naam Dev Ji - Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - Ang 1318 

ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥  

ikOankaar satigur prasaad ||

One Universal Creator God. By The Grace Of The True Guru.

ਰਾਗੁ ਕਾਨੜਾ ਬਾਣੀ ਨਾਮਦੇਵ ਜੀਉ ਕੀ ॥

raag kaanaRaa baanee naam-dev jee-o kee 

Raag Kaanraa, The Word Of Naam Dayv Jee:  

ਐਸੋ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਇ ਅੰਤਰਜਾਮੀ ॥ 

aaiso raam rai antar-jaamee || 

Such is the Sovereign-Lord that he sits inside all life and is the Inner-knower of all; 

ਸੁੱਧ-ਸਰੂਪ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਐਸਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਉਹ ਹਰੇਕ ਜੀਵ ਦੇ ਅੰਦਰ ਬੈਠਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਹੈ 

ਜੈਸੇ ਦਰਪਨ ਮਾਹਿ ਬਦਨ ਪਰਵਾਨੀ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ 

jaise darpan mehi badan parvaanee ||1|| rahaa-o || 

(Dwelling within all) He sees everything as clearly as one's face reflected in a mirror (but remains distinct and detached). ||1||Pause|| 

(ਪਰ ਹਰੇਕ ਦੇ ਅੰਦਰ ਵੱਸਦਾ ਭੀ ਇਉਂ) ਪ੍ਰਤੱਖ (ਨਿਰਲੇਪ ਰਹਿੰਦਾ ਹੈ) ਜਿਵੇਂ ਸ਼ੀਸ਼ੇ ਵਿਚ (ਸ਼ੀਸ਼ਾ ਵੇਖਣ ਵਾਲੇ ਦਾ) ਮੂੰਹ ।੧।ਰਹਾਉ। 

ਬਸੈ ਘਟਾ ਘਟ ਲੀਪ ਨ ਛੀਪੈ ॥ 

bassai ghaTaa ghaT leep na chheepai || 

He dwells in each and every heart but no stain or stigma of Maya (the material world) sticks to Him. 

ਉਹ ਸੁੱਧ-ਸਰੂਪ ਹਰੇਕ ਘਟ ਵਿਚ ਵੱਸਦਾ ਹੈ, ਪਰ ਉਸ ਉੱਤੇ ਮਾਇਆ ਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਭਾਵ ਨਹੀਂ ਪੈਂਦਾ, ਉਸ ਨੂੰ ਮਾਇਆ ਦਾ ਦਾਗ਼ ਨਹੀਂ ਲੱਗਦਾ, 

ਬੰਧਨ ਮੁਕਤਾ ਜਾਤੁ ਨ ਦੀਸੈ ॥੧॥ 

bandhan muktaa jaat na deesai ||1|| 

He is liberated from bondage; He does not belong to any social class. ||1|| 

ਉਹ (ਸਦਾ ਮਾਇਆ ਦੇ) ਬੰਧਨਾਂ ਤੋਂ ਨਿਰਾਲਾ ਹੈ, ਕਦੇ ਭੀ ਉਹ (ਬੰਧਨਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਫਸਿਆ) ਨਹੀਂ ਦਿੱਸਦਾ ।੧। 

ਪਾਨੀ ਮਾਹਿ ਦੇਖੁ ਮੁਖੁ ਜੈਸਾ ॥ 

paanee mehi dekh mukh jaisaa || 

As one's face is reflected in the water (but unaffected by the water), 

ਤੁਸੀ ਜਿਵੇਂ ਪਾਣੀ ਵਿਚ (ਆਪਣਾ) ਮੂੰਹ ਵੇਖਦੇ ਹੋ, (ਮੂੰਹ ਪਾਣੀ ਵਿਚ ਟਿਕਿਆ ਦਿੱਸਦਾ ਹੈ, ਪਰ ਉਸ ਉੱਤੇ ਪਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਕੋਈ ਅਸਰ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੁੰਦਾ), 

ਨਾਮੇ ਕੋ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਬੀਠਲੁ ਐਸਾ ॥੨॥੧॥ 

naame ko suaamee beettal aaisaa ||2||1|| 

so does Naam Dev's Beloved Lord-Master appear. ||2||1|| 

ਇਸੇ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਹੈ ਨਾਮੇ ਦਾ ਮਾਲਕ (ਜਿਸ ਨੂੰ ਨਾਮਾ) ਬੀਠਲ (ਆਖਦਾ) ਹੈ ।੨।੧।

[Video] Interview with Bhai Atinderpal Singh Khalastani

Khalsa Camp UK 2018: A Camper's Testimony

Before camp and during camp

Below is an article written by sister Danielle who attended Khalsa Camp UK 2018. From day one of the camp Bhenji had a Dastaar (turban) tied on. I thought Bhenji was a Western Sikh, however after being introduced found out that Bhenji was not a Sikh but just a spiritual seeker looking for some positivity and direction. I was taken aback at Bhenji's courage and boldness to wear a Dastaar from the first day of camp, and throughout the camp. It seemed a part and parcel of who she was and it seemed hard to imagine her without it. I hoped that Bhenji didn't feel bored in Divaans and feel disengaged when Gurbani is recited or sung because she is not familiar with it. However, quite the opposite, Bhenji was one of the early comers to the Amrit-Vela divaan and sat attentively with a peaceful pose throughout the whole divaan (unlike the average Punjabi who slouches and shuffles around).

When I spoke to Danielle Bhenji near the end of the camp, she said: "I first came to the camp as an observer but then it felt like I was part of all of this and everyone..." Camps are wonderful opportunity to self-reflect and connect with the Ultimate Reality, Vahiguru, with the help of the Saadh Sangat, the Holy Company. I hope Bhenji's reflections of Khalsa Camp UK 2018 gives inspiration to others to come to the Saadh Sangat and begin experiencing Sikhi through Nitnem, Simran, Sangat, Kirtan, and Seva.

'From Faith to Knowing' Khalsa Camp 2018

September 1 2018

Written by Danielle and from Overblog

“The moment I remembered”

Sometimes in life the most extraordinary things happen and it’s difficult to express them in words as the experience is completely personal, but today I will try. For the past two years my friend Harmeet Singh has been asking me to join him on the Khalsa Camp and this year I made the decision to go. Harmeet and I have been friends for nearly 4 years, we met during our time served in the Army. At that point in our lives when we were searching for something but not entirely sure where to look. I had separated from my husband and was following the yogic path in the hope that I would find some peace and balance. As much as I dedicated my time to the practice I would still have fluctuations of the mind. One moment I could be brimming with energy and the next I could not see any meaning to my life. But something deep down inside of me never gave up the search. I looked for it in the clubs, in food, in yoga, in partners, in friends, in travel but my initial highs soon faded, and I would be left with a deep feeling of loneliness. The point came when I realised I was no use to anyone. I decided I needed to make a drastic change and signed off from the Army, from there I travelled to many places around the world in search of my answers. I met incredible people who I can only thank for the point I am at today, now I see each person as a gentle guide showing me the way. After my travels I moved to France to work on a project on a property which was purchased 4 years ago. The space is open to the community and volunteers to practice yoga and connect back to the earth. So, I am not completely sure why I agreed to the Khalsa camp this year as I was so busy. But I never questioned my decision or even considered the experiences I may have.

The time came to leave France and reunite with Harmeet to attend the camp. I had no expectation, my reason for attending was to see Harmeet and have a week to reflect and meditate in the company of spiritual people. So, to be sat here now and share with you the most life changing experience to date is a complete surprise. As soon as I arrived I knew something magical was going to happen, the love and warm smiles made me immediately feel at home. Everybody I met had a soft glow and welcoming eyes which I became absorbed in. I think I was the only person who was not practicing Sikhism, but this didn’t matter. The days were filled with inspiring lectures to fit with the theme ‘Win your mind, conquer the world”. There was a perfect balance of spirituality and science to open the mind of all who attended. Something was happening deep inside of me each time I heard the words of the lecturers, it was like I was being re-taught something I already knew. My mind wasn’t aware, but my heart was. I discovered that Sikhism is all about love, compassion, strength and self-discipline. It is about seeing yourself as a drop of water from the vast ocean, it is about having the courage to stand up for what is right, it is about seeing each person as your family and taking responsibility for the whole. It is about discovering that by understanding the mind we can achieve bliss in this life time, this bliss comes with no selfish gain or desire, this bliss is pure.

I have struggled with my image over the years and have covered it up in many ways or have looked for praise and love in ways that disrespected my gifts. That week I saw the beauty in everything, inside and outside of me. During one of our evening divans I cried as I mother would for their child. I saw my life in flashes of images, getting tattoos and piercings, intoxicating my body, self-harming, meaningless relationships and words of hate. I cried because I saw the perfect creation I was destroying to fit into an uncompassionate society. This realisation made me remove my piercing and vow to care of my body just as you would for a person you loved. This body is a gift to experience this world and be used to serve others to raise the awareness about our deeper connection. 

Each morning we sat for Simran at 2:30 am where we repeated ‘VaheGuru’ until the morning prayers and Kirtan began at 04:45 . It sounds insane to even consider waking up at this time, but I have never felt so much joy in all my life. My mind was at peace and my whole body vibrated, to be merged within the Darbar Sahib with Guru Granth Sahib and all who attended was where I found my home. I looked around and saw myself in each person, I let the words reach my soul without labelling or challenging the meaning. From that moment I knew this wouldn’t be the last time I would be doing this practice.

The Guru Granth Sahib is unique among the world's great scriptures. It is considered the Supreme Spiritual Authority and Head of the Sikh religion, rather than any living person. It is also the only scripture of it's kind which not only contains the works of it's own religious founders but also writings of people from other faiths. This is the living Guru of the Sikhs, the book is treated with the upmost respect. Sikhism rejects idol worship, so the Guru Granth Sahib is not worshipped as an idol, but rather emphasis is placed on respect of the book for the writings which appear within. Guru Granth Sahib is a collection of devotional hymns and poetry which proclaims God, lays stress on meditation on the True Guru (God), and lays down moral and ethical rules for development of the soul, spiritual salvation and unity with God. (sikhs.org, 2011)

One afternoon we sat overlooking the ocean and discussed the matter of love. The answers and reflection led me to this; When we are no longer attached to the fluctuations of the mind and do not allow thoughts of anger, desire, jealousy and lust to rules us we are living in a present moment. We are at our purest state, we live our life with the purpose to help others. We are no longer enslaved by the ideologies of society, are needs for worldly goods and moments of excitement are observed as a distraction to the evaporation of our Ego. We can wake up every day fully energised and ready to make changes in the world. The idea of ‘I’ turns to ‘We’. The beauty of the world is magnified as we hear the gentle sounds of each creation. At this point you no longer live with a faith that you will meet the right partner, you have a knowing that when the time is right that person who will stand by your side and support your journey will come into your life. You will not need to rush into anything as when this person arrives they will stay with you. Here love is not something you possess or need from a person, it is a gift to enjoy.

I will never forget the day when Harmeet pushed me out of my comfort zone to chant, I had no time to let my fears in because before I knew it I was seated in front of the microphone facing Guru Granth Sahib. I was surprised that as soon as I let the sound leave my mouth I had no negative feelings. I spent many moments of my life on stage singing and being judged and compared. At that moment I realised that this was no longer about me. This realisation I will hold with me. When you focus so much on what others think, you lose yourself to the mind. We need to act as role models to everyone we meet to support and encourage. When we judge we are working from the mind and not the heart. In this space you lose your place in this moment.

I can now take this moment to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for helping me to find peace. You are all my gifts.  I apologies in advance if any of the terms used were not correct or if any of my words offended anybody.

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki fateh

Danielle

www.khalsacamp.com/uk

https://www.sikhs.org/granth.htm

http://daniellebaker.over-blog.com/2018/09/from-faith-to-knowing-khalsa-camp-2018.html

Telford Family Gurmat Camp...

From 1st to 2nd September, a Family Gurmat Camp was held at Gurdwara Sangat Parchaar Sabha Telford. During the 2-day camp, adults and children came together to learn about Sikhi. All the Sangat were really eager to learn more about Sikhi. During the camp there was Amrit-Vela, Nitnem, Kirtan, interactive Gurmat Veechaar, fun activities for children, Q&A, self-defense, and Gatka. Although the Gurdwara Sahib and Sangat is small, there was a really positive vibe.

Some photos of the camp:

Kirtan

Break with some exercise for everyone

Gurmat Veechar

 Whilst listening to Vahiguru Simran, the children made a Vahiguru poster. They learnt about the importance of repeating, singing and writing the Name of Vahiguru.

Children having opportunity to see animals

Shastar for Gatka

Children learning Gatka

 Sangat with Gatka team