40. SIKH SPIRITUAL MEDITATIONS: The Mool

The Sikh spiritual meditations are a subtle powerful change force.  

The change process sets forth the moment the Sikh hears, reads and begins his tryst with Gurbani.

The power of Gurbani has subtle influence on the psyche of the Sikh which initiates the changes in the multifold ways which continue at different levels.

First of all, Gurbani touches the Sikh at emotional level. The shabad Gurbani soothes the nerves, reduces anxiety and fear. Shabad kirtan induces feelings of love, confidence, assurance and oneness of a subtle higher divine force. Shabad kirtan raises the emotional level of the Sikh to experience higher level of feeling.

The Gurbani next imparts knowledge. This knowledge is about the way we have to line in this world and progresses spiritually. The knowledge is a transformer. It makes us view the world spiritually. It makes us change our beliefs towards the true reality that is ‘oneness’. The knowledge is subtle with doors opening as the Sikh progresses spiritually.

Thirdly, the Gurbani induces the change process in us by aligning our thoughts with those of the Guru and takes us through a journey of ever new meditations which brings in new and new spiritual experiments in the journey from the life of separation to the life where oneness is felt, observed, experienced and the jyote swaroop image shines.

Here are some of these meditations which are spiritually transforming:-

THE BASE OF MEDITATIONS : THE MOOL MANTRA

The Mool (Origin) Mantra, as the name suggests is about the origin. It is about nature of the world and that of own self. It is the basic meditation which has levels which keep opening up newer and newer experiences and understanding. All the Gurbani meditation revolves around the Mool Mantra.

The Mool Mantra is:-

Ek oankaar - One Universal Creator God

Sat naam - TheName Is Truth

Karata purakh- CreativeBeingPersonified

Nirabho -NoFear

Niravair- No Hatred

Akal moorath - Image Of The Undying

Ajooni - Beyond Birth

Saibhang - Self-Existent

Gur prasad - By Guru's Grace.

EKONKAR: This one word is at the beginning of SGGSji. The most simplistic translation of Ekonkar is “God is One”.

The very moment Sikh focuses on “Ekonkar” the meaning begins to evolve with more and more insights. The more the Sikh reads Gurbani, there is better appreciation of the vastness of meaning that this single word encompasses and reveals. The word Ekonkar represents the creation and the creator. Ekonkar begins the Sikh’s spiritual journey. The Sikh knows oneness, experiences oneness and is one with oneness.

The Sikh sheds the common notion of GOD, as the experience of vastness unfolds and begins to see oneness.

The meditation on “Ekonkar” is a journey. This journey is a journey of exploration. The letting go of life times of notions on GOD and reality. In this journey we are force to face with the dilemma on nature of reality. The pendulum ever swings as to what is real and which is an illusion. The mind repeatedly keeps its pull towards the comfort accepting what everyone believes. The mind is the first stumbling block that the Sikh has to overcome with the tools that the Guru has provided. The Guru through His grace bestows the Sikh with the fit of simran.

The base of Sikh spiritual meditation is simran. Simran means to remember and repeat. Simran is the basic meditation method which the Sikh makes as part of life. Simran lets the sikh be ever aware of the Guru. Through simran the Sikh keeps alive the change and transformative process with ever awareness of HIS presence.

When the Sikh repeats Gurbani, it is simran. The listening to Gurbani Kirtan is Simran. The Jap of Guru Mantra”Waheguru” is simran.

In the Mool Mantra, the Guru has instructed the Sikh and revealed what the focus of the simran has to be. The word Mantra begins with Ekonkar and has seven words which cannot be exactly translated, only the meaning of these words can be indicated: EKONKAR thus means : There is one God. The universe is His manifestation and there is oneness.

SAT NAAM: this word is composed to two words ‘Sat’ and ‘Naam’ which means ‘HIS’ name and refers to the Divine reality within and bout. The absolute truth is that HE is the only reality. This “truth” is to be ever reinforced through simran so that the developing belief becomes the “truth”.

KARTA PURAKH: Karta Purakh means the creator – the creative force. The creator is not distinct from the creation. HIS Hukam prevails in the creation. The simran is to observe and accept the HUKAM with the creation.

NIRBHAU: Nirbhau means absence of fear. This means that in the underlying reality the fear is an illusion and force that is Maya. The fear is because of duality. The reality is “Anand”. The truth is only LOVE.

NIRVAIR: Nirvair means absence of enmity. Again enmity is because of duality. Simran is to see the illusion so that oneness is observed. How can when all are one, there be enmity?

AKAL MOORAT: The cycle of life and death is a part of creation. The creator is beyond this cycle and “Akal” – one whom death cannot touch. We just cannot go beyond the confirms of this world of relationship. In the world we know happiness through sadness, there is high because there is low. The opposite relationships are all around and an intricate part of our lives. We know life as there is death. How are we to know one who created these and the world we live in? Some connection has to be there with our world. Guruji thus explicitly state HIM to be Akal Moorat. A form or an existence which IS and EVERIS, TIMELESS. There is no Death, just existence.

AJOOIN: Ajoni means ONE who is unincarnated (not having any reincarnation/incarnation). This again is use of a defining way by stating ‘this is not’. There is only ONE and ONENESS. Nothing else. No other second or similar. The world that has birth, death and rebirth is a manifestation – a creation .

SAIBHANG: Saibhang explains the next obvious question. Who created the creator? How the creator came into existence. Another question that arises out of our everyday experiences. Guruji specifies explicitly HE is self-created. HE IS and creates HIM HEMSELF.

GURPRASHAD: Now the last obvious question. How can we know HIM. Where can we find HIM. The answer is in the word,”Gurprashad”- Guru’s Grace. One can know HIM through Guru’s grace only. Only the “Guru’s” “Prashad” can make us find and know HIM. Our shackles of illusion and separateness is thus shattered.

The word “Prashad” is used for a food offered to Guru . In the Gurdwara after the end of worship service Karah Prashad is served to sangat. This Karah Prasad is a kind of sacred pudding which is sweet and a delicacy. This is considered and taken as Guru’s kindness, favor or grace. Spiritually the direction and guidance is of the Guru. This is Guru’s grace and so also the result.

The first real defining direction for the spiritual aspirant, a Sikh is knowing, finding and following the True Guru.

The word Sikh means a disciple. Who is the Guru of a Sikh? We have the Ten Guru’s starting with the First Guru being Guru Nanak Devji and the present ever living eleventh Guru being Guru Granth Sahebji whom the tenth Guru gave Guru gaddi.

The first thing that the learns that the Guru is not the Physical Body but a “Guru Jyote “ that is transferred from one Guru ‘s Physical body to the next and now is within Sree Guru Granth shahebji who are also known as The Shabad Guru.

Has Shabad been throughout the Guru? Guru Nanak Devji in Sidh Ghost bani has stated that his Guru is the Shabad. Right from the first Guru’s time the Sikhs were introduced to Gurbani. The original Gurbani is the Shabad Guru now.

The Sikhs first meditation is seeking of THE GURU.

Knowing THE SHABAD GURU.

Finding and LIVING WITH THE SHABAD GURU.

 

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38.Spiritual Significance of Five Kakars-Sikh symbols Part V

Kachehra

Kachera - Specially designed cotton underwear which although gives natural comfort and is dignified but is at the same time is reflective of modesty and high moral character.
The message of kachera is to live a life that makes Sikh pure.The kachehra is for making the Sikh rises above the five vikars (weaknesses of human personality). The five vikars are kama (lust), karodh(anger), lobh(greed), moha(attachment) and ahankar(egoity).These are often called evils , sins or defects. But still the fact is these are part of human personality and are obstruction in the sikh’s pursuit of spiritual path. These are hindrances which blind the mental vision and make concentration difficult. Apart from these let us see what Guruji tells us about other hindrances.

ਪਉੜੀ ॥

ਸੂਰਬੀਰ ਵਰੀਆਮ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਹੋੜੀਐ ॥ਫਉਜ ਸਤਾਣੀ ਹਾਠ ਪੰਚਾ ਜੋੜੀਐ ॥

ਜਿਣਿ ਜਿਣਿ ਲੈਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਰਲਾਇ ਏਹੋ ਏਨਾ ਲੋੜੀਐ ॥

ਤ੍ਰੈ ਗੁਣ ਇਨ ਕੈ ਵਸਿ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਮੋੜੀਐ ॥

ਭਰਮੁ ਕੋਟੁ ਮਾਇਆ ਖਾਈ ਕਹੁ ਕਿਤੁ ਬਿਧਿ ਤੋੜੀਐ ॥

ਗੁਰੁ ਪੂਰਾ ਆਰਾਧਿ ਬਿਖਮ ਦਲੁ ਫੋੜੀਐ ॥

ਹਉ ਤਿਸੁ ਅਗੈ ਦਿਨੁ ਰਾਤਿ ਰਹਾ ਕਰ ਜੋੜੀਐ ॥੧੫॥

- SGGS 522

PAUREE:
Even brave and mighty men cannot withstand the powerful and
overwhelming army which the five passions have gathered.
The ten organs of sensation attach , even detached renunciates to sensory pleasures. Those these make attached, ever seek sensual pleasures.
The world of the three dispositions is under their influence;
no one can stand against them.
How can the great illusion of Maya like the moat around be broken?
In the Perfect Guru’s ( described) way ,
do Worship and break this awesome forceful collection.
Day and night live with HIM (God in mind), to attach with HIM.
- SGGS 522

The obstructions are forceful, very strong.The pleasure of Kama is short lived but has strength enough to setaside all the minds objections. The Anger stays for some times and ever demans that the life do their bidding.It rises when ever desired outcome or behviour is not their.The greed with the humans even longer . The desire for more directs our actions.The attachment is even subtler and grows ever stronger as one lives.The ahankar (egoity) is a very very stubborn hindrance.

The effect of the five and sensual pleasures is to keep our awareness involved in the outer world and worldly affairs.This is part of the great illusion and the the great play that this world is.
As large are the worldly attractions and engrossments so also are a varity of ways towards self –realization. The realization of our origin and our true nature. In some of these powerfully propogated ways the effect of maya and misdirection is there. Only by following the path described by a Perfect Guru that the viel of illusion is broken .
The way and means that SGGSji presents to the Gursikh is there right in the beginning. In Japuji Saheb Guruji answer as below :

ਕਿਵ ਸਚਿਆਰਾ ਹੋਈਐ ਕਿਵ ਕੂੜੈ ਤੁਟੈ ਪਾਲਿ ॥

ਹੁਕਮਿ ਰਜਾਈ ਚਲਣਾ ਨਾਨਕ ਲਿਖਿਆ ਨਾਲਿ ॥੧॥

SGGS 1
So how can you become truthful?
and how can the veil of illusion be torn away?
It is by walking the path of ‘ Hukam Razazi’

Says Nanak, that is inscribed(meaning is ordained).
- SGGS 1

To explain further the way of ‘Hukam Razazi’ , the Guru ji in the next very lines explained the Hukam .

ਹੁਕਮੀ ਹੋਵਨਿ ਆਕਾਰ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਨ ਕਹਿਆ ਜਾਈ ॥

ਹੁਕਮੀ ਹੋਵਨਿ ਜੀਅ ਹੁਕਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥

ਹੁਕਮੀ ਉਤਮੁ ਨੀਚੁ ਹੁਕਮਿ ਲਿਖਿ ਦੁਖ ਸੁਖ ਪਾਈਅਹਿ ॥

ਇਕਨਾ ਹੁਕਮੀ ਬਖਸੀਸ ਇਕਿ ਹੁਕਮੀ ਸਦਾ ਭਵਾਈਅਹਿ ॥

ਹੁਕਮੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਹੁਕਮ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥

ਨਾਨਕ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਜੇ ਬੁਝੈ ਤ ਹਉਮੈ ਕਹੈ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥੨॥

- SGGS 1

As is HIS Command, the shapes are created;

HIS Command (in operation everywhere) cannot be said to be so.

As is HIS Command, the souls come into being;

As is His Command, the glory and greatness are obtained.

As is HIS Command, some are high and some are low;

As is HIS Command,the pain and pleasure are obtained as is inscribed (karma).

As is HIS Command, some are blessed

and as is HIS Command, some keep wandering.

Everything is subject to HIS Command; nothing is outside HIS Command.

Says Nanak, one who understands the riddle of HIS Command,

does not speak of ego (separate existence).
- SGGS 1

The Hukam and Hukami (giver of command) are together in this world. The creator is everywhere unseen and so is the command unobserved. It is by the Guru’s way that this realization dawns and transformation comes about. This is the way viel is broken light of being jyote swarope shines.

The Gurmukh when see the world then the creator is felt in the creaton .The Hukam behind working of the world is felt to be there.The Gurmukh feels HIS presence. Gurmukh then says in recognition

‘ Tuhi (that’s YOU), Tuhi , Tuhi, Tuhi, Tuhi ,Tuhi ,Tuhi ,Tuhi ,Tuhi ,Tuhi, Tuhi ,Tuhi …..’.

It is when the Gurmukh gets imbued with the Naam-Rang (color of Naam) then the awareness is ever within and without. In this state the focus of awareness operates from within.Everything is done in Naam-Rang.The viel is broken.

In such a state how can the five trouble the Gurmukh. How also can the sensual pleasures be enticing.

The path of Guru Nanak Dev ji is that of faith. To walk the way of Hukam razai is to be in the present. In acceptance of What is withot any resistance and judgement.The Hukam is seen to be prevailing and the Creator is seeneverywhere , in every thing and within too by keeping the individual self assertion aside.
This fact is ever asserted through reciting and singing of gurbani. The Simran is to ever remember HIM ; feel HIM .

First is acceptance that what Guru tells is Sach (truth) , next what the Guru says is then experienced.

The Kachehra is for following a path that truly liberates Sikh from the control of sensual pleasures and the army of the Five. The Gurmukh then lives in this world always getting out of the grip of these untouched.

********

The power of five kakars

The tenth master, Guru Gobind Singh ji at a special congregation at Anandpur on Vaisakhi Day, 30 March 1699 created Khalsa making it the culmination of about 240 years of training given by the ten Gurus to their Sikhs. The Guru wanted to create a way for sikhs to be pure (khalsa) ever in future. The khalsa is a combination of devotion (Bhakti) and strength (Shakti).
The Khalsa was to be of high moral character,strong, courageous, learned and wise. His character would be strengthened by recitation and singing of Gurbani. The khalsa is meant to walk the earth with virtue and courage to stand against exploitation, self-defence and protection. The Khalsa is to live an householders life and has to have a strength for overcoming hurdles through his daily life with Waheguru. His spirit will continue to inspire them for the preservation of peace, order and dignity of mankind for all time to come.

The Sikh is initiated in the Khalsa path through a ceremony of ‘Amrit Sanchar’ through the drinking of the Amrit or the Nectar. The Amrit is administered in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ,the 11th eternal Guru by the five Sikhs, representing panj pyaras, The Sikhs being initiated then adorn the five kakars . These kakars are Kesh , Kanga, Kara ,Kirpan and Kachera.

These blessed kakars were selected and ordained by Guru Gobind Singh ji for ever being adorned by the Khalsa. What power does these have. These have a power that works in a mysterious way by keeping the Khalsa on a right path to attain a pure , pious spiritual life which according to the Guru Granth Sahib. These have an external as well as special significance.

Spiritual Significance of Five Kakars-Sikh symbols Part IV

Kirpan

Kirpan - A Strapped sword, usually small in size is worn by the Sikh all the time. The message of Kirpan is to cut the attachments of ego regularly all the time.Let us see what Guruji explains about these attachments

ਤਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਥਾਪਿ ਕੀਓ ਸਭੁ ਅਪਨਾ ਕੋਮਲ ਬੰਧਨ ਬਾਂਧਿਆ ॥

SGGS 383

He preserves his body and wealth, and takes everything as his own;
such are the subtle bonds which bind him.
SGGS 383

Here is another Shabad which explains in more detail:

ਸਲੋਕੁ ॥

ਰਾਚਿ ਰਹੇ ਬਨਿਤਾ ਬਿਨੋਦ ਕੁਸਮ ਰੰਗ ਬਿਖ ਸੋਰ ॥

ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਹ ਸਰਨੀ ਪਰਉ ਬਿਨਸਿ ਜਾਇ ਮੈ ਮੋਰ ॥੧॥

ਪਉੜੀ

ਰੇ ਮਨ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਹ ਰਚਹੁ ਤਹ ਤਹ ਬੰਧਨ ਪਾਹਿ ॥

ਜਿਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਕਤਹੂ ਨ ਛੂਟੀਐ ਸਾਕਤ ਤੇਊ ਕਮਾਹਿ ॥

ਹਉ ਹਉ ਕਰਤੇ ਕਰਮ ਰਤ ਤਾ ਕੋ ਭਾਰੁ ਅਫਾਰ ॥

ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਨਹੀ ਜਉ ਨਾਮ ਸਿਉ ਤਉ ਏਊ ਕਰਮ ਬਿਕਾਰ ॥

ਬਾਧੇ ਜਮ ਕੀ ਜੇਵਰੀ ਮੀਠੀ ਮਾਇਆ ਰੰਗ ॥

ਭ੍ਰਮ ਕੇ ਮੋਹੇ ਨਹ ਬੁਝਹਿ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸਦਹੂ ਸੰਗ ॥

ਲੇਖੈ ਗਣਤ ਨ ਛੂਟੀਐ ਕਾਚੀ ਭੀਤਿ ਨ ਸੁਧਿ ॥

ਜਿਸਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਏ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਤਿਹ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਬੁਧਿ ॥੯॥

SGGS 252

SHALOK:
Man remains engrossed in women and playful pleasures;
the tumult of his passion is like the dye of the safflower, which fades away all too soon.
Says Nanak, seek God's Sanctuary, and your my and mine shall go away. 1
PAUREE:
O mind: without the Lord,

whatever you are involved in shall bind you in chains.
The faithless cynic does those deeds

which will never allow him to be emancipated;
Acting in egotism saying mine mine, they carry the unbearable load.
When there is no love for the Naam, then these actions are useless.
The rope of death binds those who are in love with the sweet taste of Maya.
Deluded by doubt, they do not understand that God is always with them.
When their accounts are called for, they shall not be released;
their wall of mud (body)cannot be washed clean.
One who is made to understand ,
Says Nanak, that Gurmukh obtains immaculate understanding. 9
SGGS 252

The attachments that a person develops because of ego (self-identity) are bonds which do not allow the person to know about God. These are cut through Naam Simran.The ego then is known and fades away.

ਟੂਟੇ ਬੰਧਨ ਬਹੁ ਬਿਕਾਰ ਸਫਲ ਪੂਰਨ ਤਾ ਕੇ ਕਾਮ ॥

ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਿਟੀ ਹਉਮੈ ਛੁਟੀ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮ ॥

SGGS 300

Through meditation in remembrance of the Lord, the
bonds are broken,so also desires and the karma’s are fritified;
Mind’s misdirection are removed, and ego (being separate from HIM) is effaced.
SGGS 300

Guruji have also explained how the bondage is to be cut through Simran. In Japji Saheb itself the way is shown .

ਹੁਕਮੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਹੁਕਮ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥

ਨਾਨਕ ਹੁਕਮੈ ਜੇ ਬੁਝੈ ਤ ਹਉਮੈ ਕਹੈ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥੨॥

SGGS 1

Everyone is subject to HIS Hukam (divine order); no one is out of Hukam.
Says Nanak, one who understands the Hukam ,does not say there is ego (separate identity).
SGGS 1

ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ਹਉਮੈ ਦੂਰਿ ਕਰੇਇ ॥

SGGS 30
By Guru's Grace, HE abides in the mind,
and egotism(separate Identity) is driven out.
SGGS 30.

With Guru ‘ explained way in Gurbani and Simran the mind realizes and knows that the ego- separate identity is an illusion and there is GOD only everywhere and everything.

ਸਭ ਕਿਛੁ ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ ਹੈ ਹਉਮੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਕਹਨੁ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥

ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਪਛਾਣੀਐ ਦੁਖੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਗਵਾਇ ॥

SGGS 35
Everything is God HIMSELF;
with ego (separate Identity) this cannot be said ( while looking at the world).
Through the Word of the Guru's Shabad, HE is recognised, and the pain of egotism is then gone
SGGS 35

ਹਰਿ ਤੁਧਹੁ ਬਾਹਰਿ ਕਿਛੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਤੂੰ ਸਚਾ ਸਾਈ ॥

ਤੂੰ ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਸਭਨੀ ਹੀ ਥਾਈ ॥

SGGS 83

O Lord, there is nothing outside of YOU. YOU are True Master (in reality).
YOU YOURSELF are operating in all places
SGGS 83

The Haume (ego) which is separate self identity within the divine order prevailing. The ego is part of Hukam and ever asserts to maintain its separate existence . The ego keeps sustaining the illusion that GOD is separate- an higher power.The doubt,explainations ,rationalization are minds ploys.
The mind which is outward focused in the world considers world to be the only reality and when the same mind sees the world with a view from inward focus the reality is different.

For simran to cut the bonds of ego links requires an element of strong faith in the Guru’s Word. The doubting mind ever is at its wits to unshake what we like to believe in. The Sikh takes the word of SGGS ji as absolute truth despite what the mind or senses may be showing initially.

What is true is true.

And Faith of a GurSikh is a total commitment to believe that words of Gurbani are true . Faith is thus having an intense conviction that what is believed to be true , is in fact true.

So whatever be your past experierence or what the mind may be telling you belive that HUKAM is prevailing everywhere and there is onlyONENESS. This faith then actually turns into an actual experience and the Sikh Feels and beholds oneness.
The message and purpose of Kirpan is to cut the Sikhs ego bonds and letting the GOD to dwell within the Siks’s mind.

Have a relationship with Kirpan and cut the ego bonds through Simran.
SEE the truth through words of Gurbani. Repeat Shabads again and again till the mind gets the message.

From saying Mine , Mine shift to Tera , Tera (YOURS, YOURS).

The Kirpan is with the sikh always and so also the Sikh has to cut keep asserting and cutting links whenever by watching the mind ,acting on past behavior, and keep correcting it.

Spiritual Significance of Five Kakars-Sikh symbols Part III

Kara

Kara – an Iron bracelet worn on the right hand is another symbol graced by the Guru.
Kara signifies the manner of outward expression of a Sikh in worldly life. The iron signifies a inner steely resolve in exercising will-power in choice of everyday Karma.
The Karma (kind of life activity) of a Sikh in the worldly life isto be directed towards activities which are for spiritual growth as stated by the Guru SGGSji.

In Japji Saheb Guruji state that :

By the karma of actions, the robe is obtained;and
By HIS Grace, the Gate of Liberation is found.
SGGS 2

The Robe (kapra) refered here is the state which a sikh reaches through right Guru specified spiritual activities and the Sikh then is ready for the Nadar of Karta to know the Door of liberation.
Some of the activities foror the Sikh the Guru advices are :

Reading , listening and understanding Gurbani; Sitting in Sat Sangat;Listening to Katha Kirtan ; Getting up in Amritwela; Simran to be made part daily life ; Living life with Raza ( positive optimistic acceptance) ; Humbleness ; Seva ; Sharing; Control of five passions; Honest livelihood; Equality of all ; Respect of others and everything ; Sweetness in talk; …

The spiritual way of the Guru is different from those traditionally known as Guru explains in this Line :

Meditation, penance and austere self-discipline (for the Sikh) are
surrendering to the True Guru's specified Karma
- SGGS 88

The Sikh who obeys and moulds his life on Guru’s specified path is through this choice of Karma is redy to receive Divine Amrit :

There the Ambrosial Nectar is distributed,
and those with good karma receive this gift.
SGGS 146

The choice of action with regard to daily life is ever before an individual. There are many enticements and allurements.Many in this world are on the wrong path and so the Guru cautions here :

SHALOK, THIRD MEHL:
The world is blind and ignorant; in the love of duality, it engages in actions. But those actions which are performed in the love of duality, cause only pain to the body. By Guru's Grace, peace wells up, when one acts according to the Word of the Guru's Shabad. He acts according to the True Word of the Guru's Bani; night and day, he meditates on the Naam, the Name of the Lord. O Nanak, as the Lord Himself engages him, so is he engaged; no one has any say in this matter.
SGGS 593

To keep away from the worldly enticements and allurements and being steady in Guru directed spiritual pursuits require a strong will-power. The relationship a Sikh develops with the Kara enables him to have an Iron Will to be steadfast on the path.

The Guru-Graced Kara in the Sikh's right hand is more than a mere iron bangle.

The Kara bestows the Sikhs with an iron willpower by relating to it and knowing that Kara is a graced link to the Guru.

By forming relationship withthe Kara the Sikh does not cede control over his life to others and nor does to the fate or circumstances but is steadfast while walking the Guru’s stated way.

That Sikh of the Guru is to be ever respected with a bow,
who walks the Guru’s stated way.
SGGS 593

Spiritual Significance of Five Kakars-Sikh symbols -Part II

KANGA

Kanga - Wooden comb for combing the hair is the symbol closely connected with Sikhee.It is use is for maintenance of the Kesh. The keshas are combed daily with the Kanga.The spiritual significance is regular daily naam simran.

The message of Kanga is to grow in Sikhee with a regular effort.

The Guruji’s advice to the Sikh is

FOURTH MEHL:

Only that can be known as a Sikh of the True Guru,who rises in the early morning hours and meditates on Har Naam.

The effort is to arise early in the morning, take a bathe, and cleanse himself (of false ego) in the pool of nectar(through simran meditation).

As are the Instructions of the Guru (Gurbani) , with the Jap is of Har, Har ( the repeated assertion of Har (the God in the mind through Gurumantra Waheguru) all sins, misdeeds and negativity is erased ( the Godly qualities then dominate) .

Then, at the rising of the sun, the Gurbani is sung;and whether sitting down or standing up, meditation on Har Naam (simran).

One who meditates on my (guru’s advice) Lord, Har, Har, with every breath and every morsel of food that GurSikh becomes pleasing to the Guru's Mind.

SGGS 305

The Guru’s advice for regular daily effort towards Naam Simran is repeatedly stated in Gurbani . Here some lines from SGGSji.

O my mind, give up all these (mind created) efforts (that are not work in your life) . As the Perfect Guru says dwell each day, and develop love with the one Lord pervading as Oneness 1

SGGS 45.

Continually, continuously, remember the Merciful Lord.

Never forget HIM (your origin ) from your mind.

SGGS 132

The continous and regular Simran ( reciting of Gurbani with feeling and remembrance with jap of Gurumantra – Waheguru) is advocated by the Guruji so that the Sikh’s state of mind is lifted from being attached with lower worldly emotions to higher feelings of Love , appreciation , gratitude , cooperation , peace, joy etc. Also the Sikh then rises above thre false ego identification (haume) and reaches the the state of being which Gurbani calls ‘Jyote Swarop’.

A regular continous action is required so that the state of being ‘Jyote Swarop’ is achieved by the Sikh through simran.

Guruji says that :

O my mind, you are the embodiment of the Divine Light - recognize your own origin. O my mind, the Dear Lord is ever with you; through the Guru's Teachings, enjoy the state of Anand.

SGGS 441

The Kanga ever reminds us to be regular in our effort in Simran. So a buildup of a relationship with this symbol chosen and graced by the Guru we get the strength and resolve to make daily and regulay simran a part of our life.

Spiritual Significance of Five Kakars-Sikh symbols (defining emblems)

PART I

The word ‘Sikh’ means a disciple. A Sikh is a disciple and has a Guru.
The Guru of the Sikhs is Shabad Guru Shree Guru Granth Sahebji.

The first Guru of the Sikhs Guru Nanak Dev ji started the spiritual way of Sikhee and thereafter transferred the Guru Jyote to the Guru’s that followed and evolved the way in the physical world. The Tenth Guru – Guru Gobind Singh ji gave the Sikh full form with five kakars- Kesh (unshorn hair) to be kept covered , Kanga (a small comb) ,The Kirpan ( small Sword), Kara ( an Iron Bracelet) and Kacherha ( a stitchedcotton underwear).
The person who takes on the Guru becomes a Sikh popularly known as Amritdhari Sikh as he has ceremoniously taken Amrit to enter into Guru-Sikh relationship. The Amritdhari Sikh adorns these five Sikh kakars which the 10th Guru had asked the Sikhs to adorn.The Sikh accepts Sikhee voluntarily at any time during his life and enters into a well crafted spiritually disciplined life.
To be a Sikh is an individual choice.The keeping and maintaining full natural hair is the first step towards Sikhee that a Sikh has to take.
The people around of other religions and cultures do not keep long hair, so why is the question that is often asked. Even the Sikh children at times ponder on this aspect when the others out of curiosity ask this same question.
The answer starts with the very nature of Sikh spiritualism where the life to be lived is of a householder but the way of life is spiritual. The significance of five kakars is clearly connected with the Sikh spiritual path. Once the spiritual path is seen in broader perspective the relevance of the symbols becomes quite apparent.
The Guru Nanak had come as illuminator in this age of kalyug. In this kalyug there is prevalence of ignorance. The conception and ideas of creator God were grossly distorted. The religious practices had become ritualized. The grandeur and magnitude of ritualistic practices of religions were keeping the minds of people rooted to ignorance. Their life was mired in vices and afflictions. There was a force in collective consciousness that kept the people involved in ritualistic practices leading to little spiritual growth. The sadhus and saints who had spiritual illumination were far and few in numbers and kept away from the society in the mountains.
Only the spiritual knowledge could lift the people out of ignorance and the pulls of ritualistic practices of masses which induces false idea of being the right way.
Guru Nanak’s path was that of spiritual knowledge. The way was connection with the source of creation – Naam. The method was Simran. The effect of Simran was to lift the veils of ignorance. The Simran cuts the attachments and lifts the mind vibrationally at a level where joy and love exists. The spiritual path is that of re-molding of mind. The higher spiritual knowledge coming out of Simran and state of being. The correct knowledge of Creator God and perception through beingness step by step led to highest spiritual growth. All this becoming part of daily life of the individual, who also has to live as a responsible member of the society.
Guru Nanak made use of the well established Guru-Disciple format by giving it a new dimension and thus the Guru-Sikh relationship became cornerstone of Sikhee. The Sikh (disciple) while remaining a householder has to bring spirituality in his daily life.
The daily habits are hard to go. For remolding a strong commitment is required. So also ‘faith’ which was imperative in acceptance of Guru’s direction and statements that through Simran made the Sikh a Gurmukh – the one who lives a higher spiritual life developed as a result of following the Guru’s word and directions.
The Sikh’s life that truly follows Sikhee is deeply spiritual; his approach to issues of a householder is spiritual. He lives above the passions that afflict a person. His life is free from anxieties. The life that he lives is positive with abundance of Seva (welfare of others), Simran (closeness to GOD and oneness), and Kirt (an honest high quality working life of a householder). The prosperity comes to him with ease and life is a smooth flow.
He or she has to have a bond of relationship with the Guru.This commitment is shown and kept by being like the Guru.The Sikh kept long hair and did not cut the hair.The kesh (hair) became a strong bond between the Sikh and the Guru.
The Kesh that became the first Sikh symbol grew in strength with time. The Sikh Gurus were keeping kesh and were wearing turban. The persons who became their Sikhs also kept keshas.
The first step to be a Sikh is to accept the Guru by becoming a Gurmukh. The ideas, beliefs ,and way of life that that the person has from the outside world is to be changed and new ideas and way of life as explained by the Guru is to be followed. This is imperative that the lower vibrational way of living where anger , greed and selfishness ruled the persons life is given up by him new way of living is brought about.
Trust and acceptance is the quality that is required for this change. When a Sikh questions and doubts the wisdom of the Guru with the mind that is only worldly in nature and lacking in perspective and knowledge the change towards being a Gurmukh – with a spiritual life and thinking would become difficult. So the Sikh starts by being like the Guru. The keeping of Keshas signifies his faith towards the Guru’s teaching and way of moulding the mind. The person has come to the Guru for this change and spiritual life and this is what the Guru gives.
The keeping and maintaining of Keshas is the first commitment of a Sikh towards bringing the change. It is the devotion to the Guru and understanding the Guru’s word (Gurbani) that starts his journey in following Sikhee.The Kesh are thus a Symbol of Sikhee.
It is often questioned that what is the need for symbols when the mind is required to be made pure and these external symbols have no purpose and meaning.Here the point that is missed is 'how to achieve purity of mind' . Also missed is the point that what would be behavior of the person with a mind that is pure.Pure mind is that which has control over passions. Such a mind has predominant love feelings. Appreciation,cooperation,understanding,gratitude etc are visible in their behaviour.Such a state of purity , as Guru Sahebji says can only be achieved through 'Naam" connection. It infact comes with spiritual development through guidance,direction and above all 'mehar' of a 'Puran Guru'.
A Guru can take along his disciple only up to the level he has reached. A 'Puran Guru' is one who is ' Nirankari Jyote' and one with Creator GOD.The association with such a Guru is a most fruitful event. The Nirankari Guru "Jyote" Guru Nanak laid the foundation of Sikhism and the Tenth "Guru Jyote" Guru Gobind Singh ji gave it a final shape and leaving the 'Guru Jyote' in Shree Guru Granth Sahebji.The tenth master also declared that ' who soever wants to meet the Creator God should find HIM through the 'Shabad' in SGGSji. The tenth master also introduced the system of partaking Amrit through Panj Pyaras .
The path that the person chooses by taking Amrit is one for becoming a Khalsa (pure). This way choice is exercised to enter into Guru-Sikh relationship formally. The 5K symbols are a daily subtle reminder of the direction, the life of the person adorning them has to take. The symbols have associated with them a group consciousness that subtly makes available to the Sikh subtle subconscious learning and awareness. The power of these symbols is inherent in the way the Sikh develops relationship with them .As a reminder and an object of strength these symbols help shape the mind of the Sikh.
The Kesh reminds the Sikh to make effort to keep Guru-Sikh relation by becoming a Gurmukh. The Guru-Sikh relation is not to be a mere formality but the Gurbani has to be listened, read, understood and followed. The Kesh symbolize commitment of the Sikh towards this relationship and true acceptance of Guru’s words so that faith proper is developed for spiritual growth.
About the 5Ks Bhai nand lal ji has written :
Nishan-e-Sikhi ast in Panj har kaf
Hargiz na bashad azin panj muaf
Kara, Karad, Kacha, Kanga bi dan,
Bina kesh kes hech ast jumla nishan.
- Bhai Nand lal
These five letters of K are emblems of Sikhism.
These five are most incumbent, Steel Bangle,big knife, shorts and a comb;
without unshorn hair the other four are of no significance.
-Bhai Nand Lal
The Kesh thus have paramount importance. Their connection is with Sikhee itself.
The Sikhee is life itself. It is the way a Sikh thinks and feels. It is the way a Sikh behaves. It is the way a Sikh relates to environment and society. It is the way the Sikh contributes to growth and well being of the world at large.


All around what one see is people engaged in so many different practices and worships with different reasons. For some the association with religion is just simply an association. the material world has at present have them in total grip. Some fear the life itself , they have lived through the ups and downs of life. Some are on look out for a way out of anxieties and fears . Whereas some are in need of Creator to resolve their life issues and problems.
Why do we go to a Guru?
Is it for material prosperity or resolution of issues.
Is it for an happy and joyful life.
Is it for growth and support in the material world.
Or Is it to seek the knowledge of mystery that is GOD.
The Gurus word the Gurbani is available as guidance to all in many and varied ways. The level and extent to which the individual relates to the Guru is the extent the result he gets. To the one seeking temporary solution, the solution would be temporary. For the one seeking transformation and a regular joy in life, the result would be so. For this the Guru requires commitment. Both the mind and body has to be placed before the Guru for change.
With this act of surrender of one gives up following the present improper way of thinking and behavior by following the Guru’s way of life as given in Gurbani.
This change is a positive change in a positive affirmative way. The change is as per the pace set by the Sikh and mysteriously at appropriate time appropriate guidance is available.
The next commitment is to accept the words and direction of the Guru. This commitment is the base for developing faith that is imperative to acknowledge as reality the spiritual truths which the Guru reveals gradually. For example when the Guru says ‘HE is everywhere and in everything.’ then this truth is difficult to accept but when faith is there the HE everywhere is a spiritual experience. There are many ways a Guru changes his Sikh as the Guru states in Gurbani itself:

SHALOK: The one who knows the True Lord God, is called the True Guru. In His Company, the Sikh is saved, O Nanak, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. 1

ASHTAPADEE: The True Guru cherishes His Sikh. The Guru is always merciful to one in HIS service. The Guru washes away the filth of the evil intellect of His Sikh. Through the Guru's Teachings, he chants the Lord's Name. The True Guru cuts away the bonds of His Sikh. The Sikh of the Guru abstains from evil deeds. The True Guru gives His Sikh the wealth of the Naam. The Sikh of the Guru is very fortunate. The True Guru arranges this world and the next for His Sikh. O Nanak, with the fullness of His heart, the True Guru mends His Sikh. 1
SGGS-286

The keeping of Kesh depicts this commitment and relates the Sikh with the Guru. There develops a strong bond between the Sikh and the Guru. From the love of this relationship develops Sikhee. The Sikh thereby transforms in to a spiritually evolved individual, a real asset to the society and the world..
The wisdom and growth comes to those who receive ‘Gur-prasad’ through a Guru-Sikh relationship fostered on a regular basis.

(In the next part II -Spiritual Significance of Kanga )

31. Being a Sikh

The Sikh way of life is unique. The Sikh lives a disciplined life even as a householder or a worldly person and at the same time is ever growing spiritually inward. To find God and be with God the Sikh does not wander around. The Sikh way of living, known as Sikhee, is a lifestyle designed by the Guru and intends to keep the Sikh spiritually focused and live a prosperous worldly life.


The creation of the Sikh panth started with Guru Nanak Dev ji, the first Guru and reached the fulfillment during the time of Guru Gobind Singh ji the tenth Guru. The Spiritual Guruship was then enshrined in Sri Guru Granth Sahebji.


The Spiritual path that Sri Guru Granth Sahebji lights up is one of discipline and effort. It is unique in that it gives freedom in the exercise of intention to pursue the path. The path is based on the tradition of Guru-Disciple relationship. The word Sikh means a disciple and the intention to be a Sikh who enters into relationship by accepting the Guru is of paramount importance in Sikhee. The Sikh accepts Sikhee voluntarily at any time during his life and enters into a well crafted spiritually disciplined life.

The spiritual wisdom of Sri Guru Granth Sahebji is for all the humanity. The message is same for all the communities and castes. The Gurdwara is open to all, what so ever be their beliefs, religion, status or position in the society. They may be innocent or full of guilt. They may be thieves or victims. The Guru sees everyone in the same light. The message is same for all and easily accessible. The path is easy to see and look at. Who so ever hears and sees the Guru is by divinely touched.
The Guru is not coercive. The Guru is silent and understanding. The Guru’s presence and hearing of Gurbani is a solace to all. The Guru is ever forgiving and patient.

The choice to enter the Sikh fold and embrace Sikhee is a personal one. Even a person born to Sikh has to exercise this choice. To be a Sikh is to accept and surrender your ‘own’ mind before the Guru and to live life wisely shaped and directed by the Rehat (Code of Conduct and Conventions) in daily life with growth of inner spiritual life closer to God. This choice is like entering a school. It is just like going to an institution.

The first thing that a person does who joins a school is to wear a dress and reports in the school for learning. He or she then is in the fold of culture associated with that institution. This culture is imbibed consciously as well as subconsciously to the major extent. A person who lives in a clan imbibes its culture. This is true and easily seen in the life around us. The group we associate with or the place we live in has an affect on us. The culture in which we are raised reflects in our values, attitudes, and behavior. There are many aspects of our lives that we take for granted are in reality based on cultural influences which can be appreciated only when we visit someone from a different culture, or go abroad or even talk to others. The way we dress, the music we listen to, the ways of living together, the relationships between parents and children, the food choices , attitudes in business , etc are all a result of cultural influence. The Sikh panth has a similar influence. This influence is reflected in the way the Sikh lives life, in the way the Sikh conducts business, the way responsibility is accepted and duty done, the way situations in life are met. The whole approach to life of a Sikh becomes different when the Sikhee is embraced by him or her.

The choice of willingly accepting the Sikh symbol’s is the first one that a Sikh exercises, while embracing Sikhee and to enter the Sikh panth. This choice is reflected by first keeping unshorn hair and thereafter sealing of the relationship with the Guru through a ceremony of Amrit Sanchar. The Sikh chooses to be like his Guru.
The Sikh symbols make a Sikh unique and protects from other cultural influences.
The five symbols of Sikh identity are
1. Kesh - Uncut hair and beard and head is covered by a turban. Hair with a tied turban and beard is a highly visible symbol of membership of the group. Hairs indicate the perfection of God's creation - naturalness. Hairs are also a spiritual aid connected with subtle energies. Devout Sikhs who do regular Simran observe heat on top of the head.
2. Kanga - Wooden comb for hygiene and maintenance of the Kesh.
3. Kara - Iron bracelet worn on the hand. Physical reminder that a Sikh is bound to the Guru and the Sikh has to earn his living in a fair manner. The Kara is a reminder of self esteem and strength of character.
4. Kachera - Specially designed cotton underwear which gives natural comfort and is dignified. The Kachera is reflective of modesty and high moral character.
5. Kirpan - A Strapped sword, usually small in size. It is worn as a reminder to protect the faith. It is meant not to show bravery, nor is a mere weapon but is a reminder to protect the weak and to stand up to injustice.


When the Sikh accepts the ‘Amrit’ from the punj payaras in an ‘Amrit Sanchar” ceremony it seals Guru-Sikh relationship. The amrit gives strength to the spiritual life of the Sikh and a shift occurs within him. A Sikh scholar compared it with a person standing in a queue being picked up and placed ahead. The spiritual change after this ceremony is more profound. This starts the Sikh, also now called Khalsa, to move through worldly life in a path with a new attitude and approach. The Simran gives the Sikh power to walk through worldly issues and situations with an ever inner connection with Waheguru ji (God).Sikh knows that Waheguru ji is ever accessible and always with him. Sikhs effort is to live life in a pure way and ever strive to live life of Simran. All along he is a worldly person with a check on five passions. The five passions a Sikh knows are kept in check by Guru’s grace only.

The Sikhee is devoid of any rituals in spiritual life. The focus all along is to develop inner life and find the God within. The spiritual wisdom of Shree Guru Granth Sahib ji is a guide from the early stage to a stage of deep spiritual living. The Guru is puran – meaning complete. The Sikh need not look towards any other source. The tradition of recitation of Gurbani, Kirtan (singing of hymns from SGGSji), Katha (explanation of Hymns from SGGSji), and discussions of with Gurmukh Sikhs and their writings is sufficient to clear doubts and a source of inspiration.


When looked closely at Sikhee, one is amazed to see that it is designed to make the follower to achieve and live a life of success, happiness, and fulfillment. The life of Simran connects the Sikh with higher power within recognized as Shabad Guru within. All a Sikh has to do is pray. All his thoughts are taken as prayers in fact and the higher power guides him to make the correct decisions in your life. The higher power is his protector and guide


So why do so many people fail to achieve success, happiness, and fulfillment? The answer is simple: not following the Guru’s Guidance. The wrong self willed methods would definitely lead to wrong results.

The persons who live a ritualistic life although accepting SGGSji as Guru without embracing the Amrit are like those who are standing at the bus stop and yet to start a journey.
The persons who keep unshorn hair (by birth in a Sikh household) and call themselves Sikhs are like those who are taking trial classes in an institution but not yet taken admission. They have yet to seal the Guru- Sikh relationship by partaking Amrit.

The persons who visit Gurdwara and so also have faith in other Gurus or Gods/Goddesses are like those who have feet in two boats. Any pain and struggles in their life is thus a result of following self willed path in their worldly life.

The people do have rights of choice. The Sikh thought does not encourage enforcing of choices but at the same time requires others not to temper with Sikh way to suit their own choices.

The Guru advices Sikhs not to follow blind rituals such as fasting, visiting places of pilgrimage, superstitions, worship of the dead, idol worship etc. The Guru teaches that people of different races, religions, or sex are all equal and teaches the full equality of men and women.

The first teaching of the Guru is that there is oneness in the creation with only One Creator God. All the people are the same. The goal of life is to lead an exemplary existence while maintaining a balance between spiritual obligations and temporal obligations so that one may know and become Jyote Swaroop (the same light as the creator). The Sikhee which is Sikh way of life makes possible the living of life as a householder, earning an honest living and avoiding of worldly temptations and sins.

The Sikhee starts with voluntarily embracing of the Sikh Symbols and Amrit Sanchar to seal the Guru- Sikh relationship. The Sikh then advances further in experiencing the nature of Shabad Guru as a higher power. The Gurbani recitation, Gurbani Kirtan and Simran then takes a new dimension taking the Sikh to a new level of spiritual experience.

The base of Sikhee is Simran on the ONE and Sewa ( self-less service ).

The three pillars on which it stands are :
Kirat Karna – Earn an honest livelihood
And carry out good deeds

Naam Japna – Is the remembrance of One God .
By repeating and focusing the mind on His name

through Guru Mantra -Waheguru .

Vand kay Chakhna - means to share ones wealth.To contribute at least

10% of their wealth/income called Dasvandh to the

needy , to distribute in Langar (free Kitchen) or to

a worthy cause.


The Sikh is associated with Truth and strives for truth in living.
The Sikh the ONE pervading everywhere and is ever Humble.
The Sikh sees HIS Hukam (Will) in operation and is compassionate
The Sikh enshrines love for HIM and so loves HIS creation.
The Sikh with Guru’s grace checks the Anger, Lust, Attachment, Greed and Ego.

( This article is also available for download in pdf form in the download section on this page)

30. Finding the Shabad Guru.

The first experience we have of the Guru is out of a tradition. The Guru that we surrender and bow before is Shree Guru Granth Sahebji whose outward look is of a revered big book. We observe the reverence and feel the devotion the Adi Granth Sahebji receives.

To the unaware the reverence appears like that given to the idols. This idea immediately begins to change on hearing the Shabad Kirtan recitation.Where there is Shree Guru Granth Sahebji there is Shabad Gurbani – the hymns recited from SGGSji.

The Gurbani Kirtan when heard touches the soul and the feeling surfaces in the conscious awareness. This starts the journey of meeting the Shabad Guru and living in HIS ever presence. This journey may be one where there are stops, rests and movement but the journey it is.

There are phases in our experience and understanding of SGGSji. The Gurbani first starts with correcting our perception of GOD whom the Guru’s Sikh (disciple) reverently speaks as ‘Waheguru’.

The ੴ Ek Ongkar is the first word of Shree Guru Granth Sahebji . This has been very simply translated as ‘‘One Universal Creator God” and also by some as ‘God is One’.
As the Sikh reads the gurbani this simple translation is found to grow in size . There are depths and depths to the description. This word is seen to symbolize Waheguru ji.

The gurbani begins to lead him towards a wondrous world. A journey that becomes his way of life.

The Sikh being a householder, a member of family, a member of society and a person involved in daily living has demands on his mind and time. The world he lives creates anxieties, concerns and fears. The persons he depends on fail to deliver. The expectations he has strangely take their own course. The body he prides on fails often. The gurudwara is the first choice where there is solace. But for solution he still keeps looking in the world. The world of gurbani is an inner world and he looks to it as a world of peace. The outer world is giving him living, the food, shelter. There are things in the outer world he desires and even covets. The Guru tells that Waheguru is the doer. HIS hukam (HIS WILL) is prevailing.

The life he Lives in the world is different. There are self identities. There are positions , aspirations and a mind and body that ever keeps him involved in its demands and desires. In this world are happy moments , joyous moments , but at the same time there are anxieties, fears, problems , diseases . There are births , a moment of joy and and deaths when sorrow prevails. How so powerful or rich he may be in the world there are moments with feelings of panic, the inadequacy times of feeling so limited , so weak, so short , so helpless.

Whom to turn to? A Guru in a body form would have been convenient. He can talk to him and he would listen to him. WAIT. He suddenly realizes that the Shabad guru has ever been guiding him inwards and that is where he can find the Shabad guru and talk to HIM. Frantically he reads gurbani. Mysteriously the Bani seem to know his mind. He finds before him the answers he seeks. He is led towards path he seeks. The gurbani the wisdom he seeks. Reading and listening to gurbani his heart is touched and a peace subtly settles. He wonders how the words in SGGSji are so different. The form is not of a Guru in human body yet the words are transformative. The words evoke a feeling of peace. The words are a wall of protective security. The words are of confidence and joy. The words evoke feelings of love. A love that is felt towards , all and everything.

The Sikh knows the first ten Gurus’ were in physical form in a human body. The tenth Guru than installed the Granth Sahib ji as Shree Guru Granth Sahebji .In this installation the Jyote was transferred. The Jyote which was there in the first Guru. The first Guru Nanak Dev ji transferred it to Bhai Lehnaji making him the second Guru Angad Devji. The same Jyote has been in the subsequent Gurus.

Right from the first Guru’s time the Sikh was introduced to Bani. His day started with Bani and ended with Bani. He accepted whatever the Bani said as truth. He obeyed and aligned his life as per Bani. He develops faith and accepts the truths of Bani above anything that someone else said and inspite of doubts that his mind conjured up.

The unveiling of truths is a matter of faith. The acceptance of what the Bani says is one of the biggest change in a Sikh. This is his first step to unshackle the bonds of maya and to enter into life of true freedom.
The Guru Himself has said:

O GurSikhs, accept the Bani, the Word of the True Guru,

as truth, absolute truth;
The Creator Lord Himself causes the Guru to chant it.
SGGS 308

The Bani is Guru, and Guru is the Bani.
Within the Bani, the Ambrosial Nectar is contained.
If His humble servant believes, and acts according to
the Words of the Guru's Bani,
then the ever present Guru emancipates him. 5
SGGS 982

As the sikh reads and accepts gurbani, he is informed that

The Guru is the Supreme Transcendent Lord God Himself.
SGGS 387

The Divine Guru is the True Guru, the Supreme Lord God, the Transcendent Lord Himself ; says Nanak bows in humble reverence to the Lord, the Divine Guru. 1
SGGS 262

Know the Guru who is Supreme Lord God Himself, as ever near. 3
SGGS 193

These words of the guru have a meaning when acceptance is there. This is a relationship of faith, acceptance and affirmation. The gursikh ever recites and affirms that :

The Perfect True Guru is always with me.
SGGS 618

My Guru is always with me, near at hand.
SGGS 394

The realization and acceptance begins to seep in new meaning of words are revealed.
‘WAHEGURU’ is the guru mantra. Waheguru is the loving reference to the creator lord.
The Lord God Himself is in the form of the Guru , the Satguru and ever present with the sikh.
HE the formless one is all the forms . HE is ever present and ever accessible. As Satguru he is ever with the Sikh.
The Sikh on Guru’s advice accepts HIS presence ever within and near him.
The Sikh’s ardas (prayer) is to the Guru within.
The Sikhs talks to the Guru within.
The Guru arranges Sikhs affairs.
The Guru is his ever protector.
The Guru subtly guides.
The Guru’s presence can be felt any time.
The Sikh just knows that HE the karta HIMSELF as Guru roop is with him and everywhere in the creation.

One day the Anhad Shabad is heard by the Sikh and he realizes that the Shabad Guru in the text form has now being revealed in the form of celestial sound- the sound of creation.
The Shabad in the form of words having shaped the mind of Sikh made his surt (awareness) subtle enough to hear the sound of creation.
The Shabad creates and Shabad is in everyone and everything.

29. Anhad Shabad : The celestial sound within

Listening to the Shabad within is the Surt-Shabad technique of Guru Nanak Devji enumerated in Shree Guru Granth Sahebji . Shabad in Guru roop is ever with the Sikhs . they only have to keep their surt (conscious awareness) within and listen to the Anhad Shabad . The intuitive guidance of the Shabad Guru is always available to them as HE is ever present.
The sehsa (doubt) a sikh has to remove during Simran efforts is that Waheguruji HIMSELF are shabad swaroop in SGGSji and as Shabad Guru are ever accessible within. Waheguruji is all around in the creation and are the substance of creation as well. HE is player on bothsides. We as jyote swaroop have to go across our ego to be one with HIM.

More has been written on this topic in the eBook titled “Anhad Shabad :the celestial sound within” in pdf form ,which is available for download at the ebook links space on this blog page.

The direct link to this free eBook is here Anhad Shabad :the celestial sound within