Sunday, February 26, 2006

Before, After Rehansbhaaee Keertan

hhThis is a follow on article from last weeks Rehansbhaaee article, *Qualities of a Sikh* will be posted next week.

One should not fall in to the trap of laziness after a Rehansbhaaee Keertan.

Before A Rehansbhaaee Keertan

Some Gurmukhs sleep a couple of hours in order to sit through the Rehansbhaaee Keertan. Daas' personal opinion is that one should leave this to nature, sleep when it comes and always stay focussed on Naam Simran with every breath Athai Pehar (24/7). This is when one meditates in ones sleep 'Ajapaa Jaap state', otherwise one is preparing for the future, Gurmukhs live in the now which is Naam. It is not a bad thing sleeping before a Rehansbhaaee Keertan in order to sit through one, it is ones personal opinion; but don’t fall in to the trap of laziness!

(Ang 34)
ਮਨ ਮੇਰੇ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਜਾਗੁ hiਰ ਚੇiਤ ॥
mun maerae anadhin jaag har chaeth
O my mind, remain awake and aware night and day, and think of the Lord.
ਆਪਣੀ ਖੇਤੀ ਰਖਿ ਲੈ ਕੂੰਜ ਪੜੈਗੀ ਖੇਿਤ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
aapunee khaethee rakh lai koonj purraigee khaeth
Protect your crops, or else the birds shall descend on your farm. 1Pause
ਮਨ ਕੀਆ ਇਛਾ ਪੂਰੀਆ ਸਬਦਿ ਰਿਹਆ ਭਰਪੂਿਰ ॥
mun keeaa eishaa pooreeaa subadh rehiaa bhurupoor
The desires of the mind are fulfilled, when one is filled to overflowing with the Shabad.
ਭੈ ਭਾਇ ਭਗਤਿ ਕਰਿਹ ਿਦਨੁ ਰਾਤੀ ਹਿਰ ਜੀਉ ਵੇਖੈ ਸਦਾ ਹਦੂਿਰ ॥
bhai bhaae bhugath kurehi dhin raathee har jeeo vaekhai sudhaa hudhoor
One who fears, loves, and is devoted to the Dear Lord day and night, sees Him always close at hand.
ਸਚੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਦਾ ਮਨੁ ਰਾਤਾ ਭ੍ਰਮੁ ਗਇਆ ਸਰੀਰਹੁ ਦੂਿਰ ॥
suchai subadh sudhaa mun raathaa bhrum gaeiaa sureeruhu dhoor
Doubt runs far away from the bodies of those, whose minds remain forever attuned to the True Word of the Shabad.
ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਸਾਿਹਬੁ ਪਾਇਆ ਸਾਚਾ ਗੁਣੀ ਗਹੀਰੁ ॥੨॥
nirumul saahib paaeiaa saachaa gunee geheer
The Immaculate Lord and Master is found. He is True; He is the Ocean of Excellence. 2
jo jwgy sy aubry sUqy gey muhwie ]
jo jaagae sae ouburae soothae geae muhaae
Those who remain awake and aware are saved, while those who sleep are plundered.
ਸਚਾ ਸਬਦੁ ਨ ਪਛਾਣਿਓ ਸੁਪਨਾ ਗਇਆ ਿਵਹਾਇ ॥
suchaa subudh n pushaaniou supunaa gaeiaa vihaae
They do not recognize the True Word of the Shabad, and like a dream, their lives fade away. ਸੁੰਞੇ ਘਰ ਕਾ ਪਾਹੁਣਾ ਜਿਉ ਆਇਆ ਿਤਉ ਜਾਇ ॥
sunnjae ghur kaa paahunaa jio aaeiaa thio jaae
Like guests in a deserted house, they leave just exactly as they have come.
ਮਨਮੁਖ ਜਨਮੁ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਗਇਆ ਿਕਆ ਮੁਹੁ ਦੇਸੀ ਜਾਇ ॥੩॥
munumukh junum biruthaa gaeiaa kiaa muhu dhaesee jaae
The life of the self-willed manmukh passes uselessly. What face will he show when he passes beyond? 3
ਸਭ ਕਿਛੁ ਆਪੇ ਆਿਪ ਹੈ ਹਉਮੈ ਿਵਿਚ ਕਹਨੁ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥
subh kish aapae aap hai houmai vich kehun n jaae
God Himself is everything; those who are in their ego cannot even speak of this.
ਗੁਰ ਕੈ ਸਬਦਿ ਪਛਾਣੀਐ ਦੁਖੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਿਵਚਹੁ ਗਵਾਇ ॥
gur kai subadh pushaaneeai dhukh houmai vichuhu guvaae
Through the Word of the Guru's Shabad, He is realized, and the pain of egotism is eradicated from within.
ਸਤਗੁਰੁ ਸੇਵਨਿ ਆਪਣਾ ਹਉ ਿਤਨ ਕੈ ਲਾਗਉ ਪਾਇ ॥
suthugur saevan aapunaa ho thin kai laago paae
I fall at the feet of those who serve their True Guru.
ਨਾਨਕ ਦਰਿ ਸਚੈ ਸਿਚਆਰ ਹਿਹ ਹਉ ਿਤਨ ਬਿਲਹਾਰੈ ਜਾਉ ॥੪॥੨੧॥੫੪॥
naanuk dhar suchai sachiaar hehi ho thin balihaarai jaao
O Nanak, I am a sacrifice to those who are found to be true in the True Court. 42154

After A Rehansbhaaee Keertan

Daas' personal opinion once again one should not use this as an excuse to sleep and loose everything they have gained as it says in the Shabad above, protect your crops or the Birds shall descend on your farm, crops is ones earnings, Birds are 5 thieves and the minds desires, they will run away with ones profit of Naam and Baanee. One should come home, sleep no more than 2 hours after doing Sohilaa Sahib and start the day fresh. Doing Ishnaan (physical bathing) will refresh the body, personal hygiene is also essential, completing ones Nitname (daily routine) of Baanee will prepare one for the day ahead spiritually, as all this is laahaa (profit). Some Gurmukhs do not sleep at all as they have realized they do not want to loose everything they have earned, through laziness, they will come home, prepare for more Sangat and Keertan, most probably nip down to the local Gurdwara, as they realize life is here to earn profit (laahaa).

ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਤੂੰ ਆਇਆ ਲਾਹਾ ਲੈਣਿ ॥
praanee thoon aaeiaa laahaa lain
O mortal, you came here to earn a profit.
ਲਗਾ ਕਿਤੁ ਕੁਫਕੜੇ ਸਭ ਮੁਕਦੀ ਚਲੀ ਰੈਿਣ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
lugaa kith kufukurrae subh mukudhee chulee rain
What useless activities are you attached to? Your life-night is coming to its end. 1Pause
(Ang 43)

They also realize they have enjoyed Guru Sahibs Sangat so much they find it difficult to stay away. Physical bathing is not essential if one wants to earn more profit of Naam Baanee right away, this is also known as Ishnaan (spiritual bathing), however one is refreshed through physical Ishnaan. One should also remember single minded concentration of many hours of Naam and Baanee is a lot more equivalent to physical sleep as Daas has mentioned this in previous posts. The main thing is we are receiving bodily rest whilst we are seated at the Keertans. Spiritualists have said 1 hour of single-minded meditation is appropriate to 8 hours sleep. Some Gurmukhs will say coming home and reading Baanee is not important, as one has been blessed all night in the Rehansbhaaee. Daas agrees but one has to remember daily routine is also very important as this is also more laahaa and extra blessings, helping one to progress further in ones Jeevan (life)

SO PLEASE DON’T FALL IN TO THE TRAP OF LAZINESS AFTER A REHANSBHAAEE KEERTAN

(Ang 156)
ਰੈਣਿ ਗਵਾਈ ਸੋਇ ਕੈ ਿਦਵਸੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ਖਾਇ ॥
rain guvaaee soe kai dhivus guvaaeiaa khaae
The nights are wasted sleeping, and the days are wasted eating.
hIry jYsw jnmu hY kaufI bdly jwie ]1]
heerae jaisaa junum hai kouddee budhulae jaae
Human life is such a precious jewel, but it is being lost in exchange for a mere shell. 1
ਨਾਮੁ ਨ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਰਾਮ ਕਾ ॥
naam n jaaniaa raam kaa
You do not know the Name of the Lord.
ਮੂੜੇ ਫਿਿਰ ਪਾਛੈ ਪਛੁਤਾਿਹ ਰੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
moorrae fir paashai pushuthaahi rae
You fool - you shall regret and repent in the end! 1Pause
ਅਨਤਾ ਧਨੁ ਧਰਣੀ ਧਰੇ ਅਨਤ ਨ ਚਾਹਿਆ ਜਾਇ ॥
anuthaa dhun dhurunee dhurae anuth n chaahiaa jaae
You bury your temporary wealth in the ground, but how can you love that which is temporary? Anq kau cwhn jo gey sy Awey Anq gvwie ]2]
anuth ko chaahun jo geae sae aaeae anuth guvaae
Those who have departed, after craving for temporary wealth, have returned home without this temporary wealth. 2

Vahiguroooooooooo!

Monday, February 20, 2006

Rehansbhaee Keertan


Daas would like to confirm, Daas is not trying to promote any Jathebandee (organisation), Keertan is Guru Sahibs Vadiyaee (praise) of God, anyone is welcome to sit and join in. Those Gurmukhs who think Keertan belongs to a certain Jathebandee are deluded by self ego. Daas is only trying to help progression in ones Jeevan with Gurus Kirpa (benevolent grace).

ਕਲਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਪਰਧਾਨਾ ॥
kulujug mehi keeruthun purudhaanaa
In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, the Kirtan of the Lord's Praises are most sublime and exalted.
gurumukh jupeeai laae dhiaanaa
ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਪੀਐ ਲਾਇ ਧਿਆਨਾ ॥
Become Gurmukh, chant and focus your concentration.
ਆਪਿ ਤਰੈ ਸਗਲੇ ਕੁਲ ਤਾਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਤਿ ਸਿਉ ਜਾਇਦਾ ॥੬॥
aap thurai sugulae kul thaarae har dhurugeh path sio jaaeidhaa
You shall save yourself, and save all your generations as well. You shall go to the Court of the Lord with honor. 6
(Ang 1075)

Guru sahib has shown the importance of Keertan in this Shabad.

(Ang 10, Bhai Sahib Gurdaas Jee)

ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਰਾਤੀਂ ਕਰੈ ਭਲਕੇ ਰਾਜ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਜਾਈ॥
praem bhugath raathee kurai bhulukae raaj dhuaarai jaaee
In the night he would immerse in loving devotion and in the morning he would serve at the door of the king.
ਆਏ ਸੰਤ ਪਰਾਹੁਣੇ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਹੋਆ ਰੈਣ ਸਬਾਈ॥
aaeae sunth puraahunae keeruthun hoaa rain subaaee
On one night some sadhus came to him and the whole night was spent in singing the Lord's praises
ਪਰਗਟ ਕਰੈ ਭਗਤ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥
purugutt kurai bhuguth vaddiaaee
God himself manifests the grandeur of the devotee.

Like Daas has said in previous posts, one has to read the Shabads in full in order get the full essence and to realize the full true meaning of the Shabads. In this Shabad Bhai Sahib Gurdaas Jee says that Bhagat Sain saw the loving devotion of Bhagat Kabir towards Vahiguroo, God and similarly became a disciple of Bhagat Ramanand, in the night he would immerse in loving devotion towards God and in the morning he would serve the King. One night some Saints came to visit Sain Jee and they sung the Lords praises (Keertan) all night, he was imbued in the love of these Rangley Sajjan (divinely coloured friends) he did not want them to leave. Sain Jee did not perform service at the King’s palace the next morning. God in Sains manifestation served the King, and the King was overjoyed with Sains service. The time came and the Saints had to leave, Bhagat Sain Jee bid them fairwell and returned to the Kings palace, the King saw him from a distance and shouted him nearby and offered his own robes to the Bhagat, he said “you have overpowered me” these words were heard by everyone at the palace.

ਭਗਤਾ ਕੀ ਪੈਜ ਰਖਹਿ ਤੂ ਆਪੇ ਏਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਵਿਡਆਈ ॥
bhuguthaa kee paij rukhehi thoo aapae eaeh thaeree vaddiaaee
You Yourself save the honor of Your devotees; this is Your Glory, O Lord.
ਜਨਮ ਜਨਮ ਕੇ ਕਿਲਿਵਖ ਦੁਖ ਕਾਟਿਹ ਦੁਿਬਧਾ ਰਤੀ ਨ ਰਾਈ ॥੩॥
junum junum kae kilavikh dhukh kaattehi dhubidhaa ruthee n raaee
You cleanse them of the sins and the pains of countless incarnations; You love them without even an iota of duality. 3
ਹਮ ਮੂੜ ਮੁਗਧ ਕਿਛੁ ਬੂਝਿਹ ਨਾਹੀ ਤੂ ਆਪੇ ਦੇਿਹ ਬੁਝਾਈ ॥
hum moorr mugudh kish boojhehi naahee thoo aapae dhaehi bujhaaee
I am foolish and ignorant, and understand nothing. You Yourself bless me with understanding.
(Ang 1155)

This is the power of singing the Lords praises all night in the company of the Saints. The word Rehan subha aee means from night day has come, alternately serving the lord all night the day has arrived. Rehan=night, subha=day, aee=arrived.

Why is it important to sit through a Rehansbaaee Keertan all night without leaving the Darbaar (Hall in where sangat sit)?

When Daas first came in to Sikhee, Daas was introduced to Rehansbhaaees by some Gurmukhs, Daas still remembers Daas' first Rehansbhaaee; Daas will never forget this it was like being in heaven. Daas was more familiar with doing all nighters at clubs, never went to a Gurdwara and all of a sudden was doing an all nighter sitting in Guru Sahibs hazooree singing the praises of the Lord in amongst the Saints.

Wow heaven on hell, Guru Sahib has called the Sangat Saints where the Lords praises are being sung.

ਸਾਂਤਿ ਸੂਖ ਸਹਜ ਧੁਿਨ ਉਪਜੀ ਸਾਧੂ ਸੰਿਗ ਿਨਵਾਸਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੧॥
saath sookh sehuj dhun oupujee saadhoo sung nivaasaa jeeo
The music of intuitive peace, poise and tranquility wells up within; I dwell in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy. 1
(Ang 105)


Daas struggled through the Rehansbhaaee, Daas had to leave the Darbaar 2 to 3 times. As Daas continued attending Rehansbaaees Daas noticed a few Gurmukh Sajjan who sat all night (7pm to 5am) Daas was totally amazed, after experiencing this Daas did Ardaas (prayer) to Guru Sahib asking him if he would please bless Daas with the Anand (ecstasy) and effort to sit through full Rehansbhaaees and every Darbaar Daas attended, this Ardaas came true through the blessings of Guru Sahib. One has to be subconsciously aware of Guru Sahib when one does Ardaas, when the Ardaas comes true one has to thank Guru Sahib as we can not do anything through personal effort.

ਬਿਰਥਾ ਕੋਇ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਿਜ ਆਵੈ ਤੁਧੁ ਆਿਹ ॥੯॥
biruthaa koe n jaae j aavai thudh aahi
Those who come to You with love and faith are never turned away empty-handed. 9
(Ang 961)

Daas' personal opinion is that it is very important for one to attend Rehansbhaaees above this it is more important to sit through the full Rehansbhaaee. Before we enter the Darbaar Sahib one should use the lavatory and eat if one is hungry therefore there will be no physical hindrances or excuses for one to leave the Darbaar. When we leave the Darbaar once, it becomes very difficult to focus afterwards as one gets stuck in indreaan de ras (taste of five senses).

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਹੋਰਿ ਅਨ ਰਸ ਸਿਭ ਵੀਸਰੇ ਜਾ ਹਿਰ ਵਸੈ ਮਿਨ ਆਇ ॥੩੨॥
kehai naanuk hor an rus sabh veesurae jaa har vusai man aae
Says Nanak, all other tastes and essences of the 5 senses are forgotten, when the Lord comes to dwell within the mind. 32
(Ang 917)


When we come to Guru Sahibs Darbaar there should only be one focus - this is only of Naam and Baanee anything else is a delusion of ego, we should not come to meet friends, have meetings, discussions, socialize etc as these are of no use to our mind and soul, and one will loose focus of the true reason why one is here. Before one sits down one should greet Guru Sahib with Fateh (Vahiguroo Jee Kaa Khalsaa, Vahiguroo Jee Kee Fateh), the Khalsa (pure beings) belong to God, victory is Gods. Daas usually does a little Ardaas (prayer) here to Guru Sahib asking Guru Sahib for Anand in the Keertan and his support for Daas to sit through the full Rehansbhaaee in total Anand, if this Ardaas is done in full faith it will always come true, as Daas is aware what is going on outside the Darbaar is a waste of time.

Daas is aware of three ways in which will help sit through a full Rehansbhaaee Keertan, ten hours of constant praising the lord. Firstly one focuses ones concentration single mindedly on the Gurmantar (Vahiguroo) and practices a ten hour Abhiyaas on Naam, using their tongue, breath or mind, depending on what stage one is at.

ਪੰਚਾ ਕਾ ਗੁਰੁ ਏਕੁ ਧਿਆਨੁ ॥
punchaa kaa gur eaek dhiaan
The chosen ones meditate single-mindedly on the Guru.
(Ang 3)


Secondly, one can train ones mind to listen to the Keertan and listen to the Gurmantar at the same time, this takes a lot of practice.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮਨੁ ਸਮਝਾਈਐ ਆਤਮ ਰਾਮੁ ਬੀਚਾਿਰ ॥੨॥
gurumukh mun sumujhaaeeai aathum raam beechaar
The Gurmukhs train their minds to contemplate the Lord, the Supreme Soul. 2
(Ang 18)


Thirdly, one can focus ones concentration in the crown Chakra in ones head and sing along with the Keertan loud all night, doing this one will be aware of Guru Sahib (Saabhdhaanee) because ones concentration will be Tikkhee (poised) above in the crown Chakra of the head and one will not be distracted by anything as all one will hear is the praises of the Lord.

Daas' personal advice is only use one of the three through the full Rehansbhaaee at any one time, if we chop and change we will loose our focus. Praatan (olden day) Singhs are seen singing Keertan with their head in the air in many photographs (the head in the air is a sign of concentration in the higher consciousness). Ones stays in Anand for 1 hour with ones head in the air then gets tired lack of Abhiyaas and concentration. Praatan Gurmukhs lived in the higher consciousness and constantly had their heads raised in the air through Keertan as this naturally happens when one is in the state of Bliss; Gursikhs live in this Anand. The length of time it happens for is down to an individual’s Jeevani (earning of Naam and Baanee in ones life)

ਰਾਜਾ ਰਾਮ ਅਨਹਦ ਕਿੰਗੁਰੀ ਬਾਜੈ ॥
raajaa raam anehudh kinguree baajai
The Unstruck Melody of the Sovereign Lord's Harp vibrates;
ਜਾ ਕੀ ਦਿਸਿਟ ਨਾਦ ਿਲਵ ਲਾਗੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
jaa kee dhisatt naadh liv laagai by His Glance of Grace, we are lovingly attuned to the Sound-current of the Naad. 1Pause
ਭਾਠੀ ਗਗਨੁ ਸਿੰਿਙਆ ਅਰੁ ਚੁੰਿਙਆ ਕਨਕ ਕਲਸ ਇਕੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
bhaathee gugun sinngiaa ar chunngiaa kunuk kulus eik paaeiaa
The Tenth Gate of my crown chakra is the distilling fire, and the channels of the Ida and Pingala are the funnels, to pour in (naam) and empty out the golden vat.
(Ang 92)

Obviously we will struggle at first as our concentration will be weak but with Abhiyaas (practice) if we hang on in there the concentration becomes a lot stronger (total anand) all night. The mind forces us to get up and makes weak excuses this is the battle we have to conquer, we should not struggle in one position, if one needs to move around one should feel free, as pain will take away Anand of Keertan, one should feel free to do Chohar Sahib Sevaa (Sevaa behind Guru Sahib) or even switch legs but main focus is to stay in Darbaar Sahib; this is where the true blessings are. With Abhiyaas this practice becomes very easy and our account of Naam and Baanee rises. With practice and blessing one will sit through Rehansbhaaees all night in one Chawnkrda (position), again personal Jeevanee and concentration.

(Ang 872)
Kabir gond
ਕੂਟਨੁ ਸੋਇ ਜੁ ਮਨ ਕਉ ਕੂਟੈ
koottun soe j mun ko koottai
He alone is a pimp, who pounds down his mind.
ੰਨ ਕੂਟੈ ਤਉ ਜਮ ਤੇ ਛੁਟੈ ॥
mun koottai tho jum thae shoottai
Pounding down his mind, he escapes from the Messenger of Death.
ਖੁਟਿ ਕੁਿਟ ਮਨੁ ਕਸਵਟੀ ਲਾਵੈ ॥
kutt kutt mun kusuvuttee laavai
Pounding and beating his mind, he puts it to the test;
ਸੋ ਕੂਟਨੁ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਬਹੁ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੧॥
so koottun mukath buhu paavai
such a pimp attains total liberation. 1
ਕੂਟਨੁ ਕਿਸੈ ਕਹਹੁ ਸੰਸਾਰ ॥
koottun kisai kehuhu sunsaar
Who is called a pimp in this world?
ਸ਼ਗਲ ਬੋਲਨ ਕੇ ਮਾਹਿ ਬੀਚਾਰ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
sugul bolun kae maahi beechaar
In all speech, one must carefully consider. 1Pause
ਨਾਚਨੁ ਸੋਇ ਜੁ ਮਨ ਸਿਉ ਨਾਚੈ ॥
naachun soe j mun sio naachai
He alone is a dancer, who dances with his mind.
ਝੁਠਿ ਨ ਪਤੀਐ ਪਰਚੈ ਸਾਚੈ ॥
jhooth n putheeai puruchai saachai
The Lord is not satisfied with falsehood; He is pleased only with Truth.
ਇਸੁ ਮਨ ਆਗੇ ਪੂਰੈ ਤਾਲ ॥
eis mun aagae poorai thaal
So play the beat of the drum in the mind.
ਇਸੁ ਨਾਚਨ ਕੇ ਮਨ ਰਖਵਾਲ ॥੨॥
eis naachun kae mun rukhuvaal
The Lord is the Protector of the dancer with such a mind. 2
ਬਜਾਰੀ ਸੋ ਜੁ ਬਜਾਰਹਿ ਸੋਧੈ ॥
bujaaree so j bujaarehi sodhai
She alone is a street-dancer, who cleanses her body-street,
ਪਾਂਚ ਪਲੀਤਹ ਕਉ ਪਰਬੋਧੈ ॥
paach puleetheh ko purubodhai and educates the five passions.
ਂਉ ਨਾਇਕ ਕੀ ਭਗਤਿ ਪਛਾਨੈ ॥
no naaeik kee bhugath pushaanai
She who embraces devotional worship for the Lord
ਸੋ ਬਾਜਾਰੀ ਹਮ ਗੁਰ ਮਾਨੇ ॥੩॥
so baajaaree hum gur maanae -
I accept such a street-dancer as my Guru. 3
ਤਸਕਰੁ ਸੋਇ ਜਿ ਤਾਿਤ ਨ ਕਰੈ ॥
thusukur soe j thaath n kurai
He alone is a thief, who is above envy,
ਇੰਦ੍ਰੀ ਕੈ ਜਤਨਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਉਚਰੈ ॥
eindhree kai juthan naam ouchurai
and who uses his sense organs to chant the Lord’s Name.
ਖਹੁ ਕਬੀਰ ਹਮ ਅੇਸੇ ਲਖਨ ॥
kuhu kubeer hum aisae lukhun
Says Kabeer, these are the qualities of the one
ਧਮਨੁ ਗੁਰਦੇਵ ਅਤਿ ਰੂਪ ਿਬਚਖਨ ॥੪॥੭॥੧੦॥
dhunn gurudhaev ath roop bichukhun
I know as my Blessed Divine Guru, who is the most beautiful and wise. 4710

In this shabad Bhagat Kabir Jee talks about beating ones mind physically and mentally as this filthy mind does not understand any other language, it is always stuck in the taste of the senses, this is when the Gurmukh is liberated.

Why does Daas recommend Rehansbhaaee Keertans?

Firstly, this is a practice in which definitely takes place once a month if not more. Secondly, one will not receive this type of Sangat in Ghirastee Jeevan (house holder in society) regularly as often as once a month, Daas' personal opinion is that they should be held more often. In this Sangat are spiritually blessed spirits with an amazing Jeevan and Nitnem (daily routine), sitting in the same Sangat as these Gursikhs one has to be truly blessed (Vadbhagee).

ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਮਿਲੁ ਸੰਗਤੀ ਸਚਾ ਸਬਦੁ ਿਵਸਾਹੁ ॥
vuddubhaagee mil sunguthee suchaa subudh visaahu
O most fortunate ones, join the Sangat, the Blessed Congregation; purchase the True Word of the Shabad.
(Ang 46)

Thirdly, Rehansbhaaees are attended by Naujvaan (young) and older, mostly Amritdhaaree Gursikhs from many Jathebandeeaan (organizations) as these Gurmukhs realize the true essence of Keertan.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਬੁਢੇ ਕਦੇ ਨਾਹੀ ਿਜਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਅੰਤਿਰ ਸੁਰਿਤ ਿਗਆਨੁ ॥
gurumukh budae kudhae naahee jinuaa anthar surath giaan
The Gurmukhs never grow old; within them is intuitive understanding and spiritual wisdom. ਸਦਾ ਸਦਾ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਣ ਰਵਿਹ ਅੰਤਿਰ ਸਹਜ ਿਧਆਨੁ ॥
sudhaa sudhaa har gun ruvehi anthar sehuj dhiaan
They chant the Praises of the Lord, forever and ever; deep within, they intuitively meditate on the Lord.
ਓਇ ਸਦਾ ਅਨੰਦਿ ਿਬਬੇਕ ਰਹਿਹ ਦੁਿਖ ਸੁਿਖ ਏਕ ਸਮਾਿਨ ॥
oue sudhaa anundh bibaek rehehi dhukh sukh eaek sumaan
They dwell forever in blissful knowledge of the Lord; they look upon pain and pleasure as one and the same.
ਤਿਨਾ ਨਦਰੀ ਇਕੋ ਆਇਆ ਸਭੁ ਆਤਮ ਰਾਮੁ ਪਛਾਨੁ ॥੪੪॥
thinaa nudhuree eiko aaeiaa subh aathum raam pushaan
They see the One Lord in all, and realize the Lord, the Supreme Soul of all. 44
(Ang 1413)

Daas used the word older Gursikhs, subconsciously Daas felt bad so used this Shabad to prove Gursikhs might look older physically but mentally and spiritually are a lot healthier and wiser, ONLY the ones who live in Guru Sahibs hukum of Athe Pehar Naam Abhiyaas (24/7 Naam Jap). Last of all every Human being has the potential to sit through a full Rehansbhaaee but one does not believe in ones self, sitting through a Rehansbaahee makes a Gurmukhs Amrit velaa a lot stronger, as one thinks if I can do it in Sangat, then I can most certainly do it at home, one needs to have faith and always needs to be positive, ones Nitnem (daily routine and Kamaaee meditating during the day becomes a lot stronger and focused). Daas would like to say some bitter words - if one can not sit through full Rehansbhaaees or does not attempt to, it will become very difficult for ones concentration and Jeevan (life) to develop further and one might not receive Jeevan Mukhatee (liberated whilst alive) in this life.

Bentee: Please if one comes to Rehansbhaaee sit through the full Rehansbhaaee and one will realize an amazing change in ones Jeevan, Bhull Chuk Maaf. Praatan Singhs sat through full Akhand Paaths; 48 hours of Abhiyaas. Rehansbhaaee is only a fifth of an Akhand Paath, we are decreasing in Abhiyaas as time goes on.

ਸਬਦਿ ਮਰੈ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਰੈ ਅਪੁਨਾ ਮੁਕਤੀ ਕਾ ਦਰੁ ਪਾਵਿਣਆ ॥੩॥
subadh murai mun maarai apunaa mukuthee kaa dhur paavaniaa
Those who die in the Shabad and subdue their own minds, obtain the door of liberation. 3
(Ang 116)

ਸੰਤ ਸਭਾ ਗੁਰੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਪਦਾਰਥੁ ਧੇਣੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
sunth subhaa gur paaeeai mukath pudhaaruth dhaen
In the Society of the Saints, the Guru is found. He is the Treasure of Liberation, the Source of all good fortune. 1Pause
(Ang 18)

It is very rare you get so many Amritdhaaree Gursikhs together at any one time, so earn Lahaa (profit).

ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀ ਤੂੰ ਆਇਆ ਲਾਹਾ ਲੈਣਿ ॥
praanee thoon aaeiaa laahaa lain O mortal, you came here to earn a profit.
ਲਗਾ ਕਿਤੁ ਕੁਫਕੜੇ ਸਭ ਮੁਕਦੀ ਚਲੀ ਰੈਿਣ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
lugaa kith kufukurrae subh mukudhee chulee rain
What useless activities are you attached to? Your life-night is coming to its end. 1Pause
(Ang 43)

When Guru Sahib talks about a profit in this Shabad, Guru Sahib refers to Naam and Baanee, Guru Sahib says ones night is passing away in vain. Lets earn our profit of Naam and Baanee and sit through full Rehansbhaaees for one to progress a lot further in ones personal Jeevan (life). Rehansbhaaee Keertans helped Daas amazingly in Daas' Jeevan as ones concentration most certainly develops further. One should attend Naam Abhiyaas camps, Keertan Darbaars, camps in general, divaans in general and persuade ones mind not to get up until after smaapthee (end), the mind will make many excuses as it is ones enemy until it is liberated. Rehansbhaaee Keertans are once every month in different cities and there is usually transport available if one wants to know more please visit the a.k.j. Site: www.akj.org.

(Ang 190)

ਹਰਿ ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਸੁਣੈ ਹਿਰ ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਗਾਵੈ ॥
har keeruthun sunai har keeruthun gaavai
Listening to the Kirtan of the Lord's Praises, and singing the Lord's Kirtan,
ਤਿਸੁ ਜਨ ਦੂਖੁ ਿਨਕਿਟ ਨਹੀ ਆਵੈ ॥੨॥
this jun dhookh nikatt nehee aavai misfortune shall not even come near you. 2
ਹਰਿ ਕੀ ਟਹਲ ਕਰਤ ਜਨੁ ਸੋਹੈ ॥
har kee ttehul kuruth jun sohai
Working for the Lord, His humble servants look beautiful.
ਤਾ ਕਉ ਮਾਇਆ ਅਗਨਿ ਨ ਪੋਹੈ ॥੩॥
thaa ko maaeiaa agan n pohai
The fire of Maya (attachment to materialistic pleasure) does not touch them. 3
ਮਨਿ ਤਿਨ ਮੁਿਖ ਹਿਰ ਨਾਮੁ ਦਇਆਲ ॥
man than mukh har naam dhaeiaal
Within their minds, bodies and mouths, is the Name of the Merciful Lord.
ਨਾਨਕ ਤਜੀਅਲੇ ਅਵਰਿ ਜੰਜਾਲ ॥੪॥੫੨॥੧੨੧॥
naanuk thujeealae avar junjaal
Nanak has renounced other worldly entanglements. 452121


Vahigurooooooooooooooooo!

If anybody is aware of regular Abhiyaas programs that take place around the world please confirm to the Sangat by replying in the comments box as one will only reach higher planes of spirituality by single mindedly sitting through lengthy Abhiyaas programs (practices).

Next weeks article is *Qualities of a Sikh*

Sunday, February 12, 2006

How is Sikhee different?

The only way in which Daas can prove how Sikhee is different is to compare it with other faiths through divine Baanee (teachings from Guru Granth Sahib). Daas does not mean to offend or slander any religion, but will also not hesitate in speaking the truth.

ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਚੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਧੁਰਿ ਬਖਸ ਨ ਮੇਟੈ ਕੋਇ ॥੬॥
kuram milai such paaeeai dhur bukhus n maettai koe
Receiving His Grace, we obtain Truth. No one can erase His Primal Blessing.

(ang 62)

Islam

(Ang 140)
ਸਲੋਕੁ ਮ: ੧ ॥
shalok mehlaa 1.Shalok, First Mehl:
ਮਿਹਰ ਮਸੀਤਿ ਸਿਦਕੁ ਮੁਸਲਾ ਹਕੁ ਹਲਾਲੁ ਕੁਰਾਣੁ ॥
mihar maseet sidak muslaa hak halaal kuraan.
Let mercy be your mosque, faith your prayer-mat, and honest living your Koran.
ਸਰਮ ਸੁੰਨਤਿ ਸੀਲੁ ਰੋਜਾ ਹੋਹੁ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ॥
saram sunat seel rojaa hohu musalmaan.
Make modesty your circumcision, and good conduct your fast. In this way, you shall be a true Muslim.
ਕਰਣੀ ਕਾਬਾ ਸਚੁ ਪੀਰੁ ਕਲਮਾ ਕਰਮ ਨਿਵਾਜ ॥
karNee kaabaa sach peer kalmaa karam nivaaj.
Let good conduct be your Kaabaa, Truth your spiritual guide, and the karma of good deeds your prayer and chant.
ਤਸਬੀ ਸਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਭਾਵਸੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਰਖੈ ਲਾਜ ॥੧॥
tasbee saa tis bhaavsee naanak rakhai laaj. 1
Let your rosary be that which is pleasing to His Will. O Nanak, God shall preserve your honor. 1


Guru Nanak Dev Jee has made it crystal clear in this Shabad to become a pure Muslim or a pure minded being; virtuous living is of highly importance.

(Ang 141)
ਮ: ੧ ॥
mehlaa 1.
First Mehl:
ਪੰਜਿ ਨਿਵਾਜਾ ਵਖਤ ਪੰਜਿ ਪੰਜਾ ਪੰਜੇ ਨਾਉ ॥
panj nivaajaa vakhat panj panjaa panje naa-o.
There are five prayers and five times of day for prayer; the five have five names.
ਪਹਿਲਾ ਸਚੁ ਹਲਾਲ ਦੁਇ ਤੀਜਾ ਖੈਰ ਖੁਦਾਇ ॥
pehilaa sach halaal du-e teejaa khair khudaa-e.
Let the first be truthfulness, the second honest living, and the third charity in the Name of God.
ਚਉਥੀ ਨੀਅਤਿ ਰਾਸਿ ਮਨੁ ਪੰਜਵੀ ਸਿਫਤਿ ਸਨਾਇ ॥
chauthee nee-at raas man panjvee sifat sanaa-e.
Let the fourth be good will to all, and the fifth the praise of the Lord.
ਕਰਣੀ ਕਲਮਾ ਆਖਿ ਕੈ ਤਾ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ਸਦਾਇ ॥
karnee kalmaa aakh kai taa musalmaaN sadaa-e.
Repeat the prayer of good deeds, and then, you may call yourself a Muslim.
ਨਾਨਕ ਜੇਤੇ ਕੂੜਿਆਰ ਕੂੜੈ ਕੂੜੀ ਪਾਇ ॥੩॥
naanak jete kooRi-aar kooRai kooRee paa-e. 3
O Nanak, the false obtain falsehood, and only falsehood. 3

Guru Sahib has made it apparent in this Shabad that just by praying 5 times a day one does not become a good Muslim, one has to praise the Lord with every breath.

ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ਕਹਾਵਣੁ ਮੁਸਕਲੁ ਜਾ ਹੋਇ ਤਾ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ਕਹਾਵੈ ॥
musalmaan kahaavaN mushkal jaa ho-e taa musalmaaN kahaavai.
It is difficult to be called a Muslim; if one is truly a Muslim, then he may be called one.
(Ang 141)


Guru Sahib says in this Shabad one has to put away the delusions of life and death, submit to Gods will, rid selfishness and be mercyful to all beings; Guru Jee says it is difficult to become a true Muslim - a disciple of Prophet Mohammeds faith.

ਸਕਤਿ ਸਨੇਹੁ ਕਰਿ ਸੁੰਨਤਿ ਕਰੀਐ ਮੈ ਨ ਬਦਉਗਾ ਭਾਈ ॥
sakat sanehu kar sunat karee-ai mai na bad-ugaa bhaa-ee.
Because of the love of woman, circumcision is done; I don't believe in it, O Siblings of Destiny.
ਜਉ ਰੇ ਖੁਦਾਇ ਮੋਹਿ ਤੁਰਕੁ ਕਰੈਗਾ ਆਪਨ ਹੀ ਕਟਿ ਜਾਈ ॥੨॥
jau re khudaa-e mohi turak karaigaa aapan hee katt jaa-ee. 2
If God wished me to be a Muslim, it would be cut off by itself. 2
ਸੁੰਨਤਿ ਕੀਏ ਤੁਰਕੁ ਜੇ ਹੋਇਗਾ ਅਉਰਤ ਕਾ ਕਿਆ ਕਰੀਐ ॥
sunat kee-e turak je ho-igaa aurat kaa ki-aa karee-ai.
If circumcision makes one a Muslim, then what about a woman?
(Ang 477)


This shabad is by Bhagat Kabeer Jee, a Muslim who meditated on the Mantra Raam. He says I teach both Hindus and Muslims, I meditate with every breath.

ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੁ ਸੋਈ ਮਲੁ ਖੋਵੈ ॥
musalmaa so-ee mal khovai.
One who cleanses himself of impurity is a Muslim.
(Ang 662)


Guru Sahib has made it quite clear the only way to become a true Muslim is to purify ones mind through the praises of the Lord 24 hours a day. Guru Sahib has written extensively about the Hindus and Muslims failing in their practice, it is difficult to express. Muslims say all non-Muslims are classed as Kaafirs (non-believers) and we have no right to live unless we convert to Islam.

ਢੂੰਡੇ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਤੁਰਕ ਸਭ ਪੀਰ ਪੈਕੰਬਰ ਕਉਮਿ ਕਤੇਲੇ॥
dhoondde hindoo turak sabh peer paikambar koum katele
All the sects, pirs, paigambars of the Hindus and Muslims were seen (by Baba Nanak).
(Vaar 1, PauRee 26)


Bhai Gurdaas Jee says all the holy men of Hindus and Muslims threw away their teachings of God through their ego. There is no equality; Muslim women keep themselves covered where as men don’t, men are allowed 4 wives, women just 1 husband, Muslims do good for 1 month during fast, for the rest of the year they are slaves to their minds desires. Women are not allowed in mosque for prayer (Muslim holy place of worship). There are many more negatives, but there is no need to continue so Daas will stop here.

Hinduism

Hindus believe in many rituals, for example, Rakhree, wearing threads around their bodys to class themselves higher than others (Janeoo), they believe in high and low castes, idol worship - God cannot be seen through a stone he is only found from within through devotional worship of Simran (meditation). They believe in more than one God, Gods and goddesses. There are so many flaws in these religions, Daas feels bad in going through so many negative points of each religion.

ਨਾਨਕ ਸਚੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਕਿਆ ਟਿਕਾ ਕਿਆ ਤਗੁ ॥੧॥
naanak sache naam bin ki-aa tikaa ki-aa tag. 1
O Nanak, without the True Name, of what use is the frontal mark of the Hindus, or their sacred thread? 1
(ang 467)


ਹਿੰਦੂ ਅੰਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਤੁਰਕੂ ਕਾਣਾ ॥
hindoo anHaa turkoo kaaNaa.
The Hindu is sightless; the Muslim has only one eye.
(ang 874)


Most of the Shabads in Guru Granth Sahib Jee Guru Jee talks about Muslims and Hindus together, on how they should improve their practices. In this Shabad Bhagat Naamdayv, a Hindu Bhagat is saying a Hindu has no spiritual wisdom and a Muslim has realized a little bit, then he says Naamdayv knows more as he meditates on the Lord.

(Ang 951)
ਮ: ੧ ॥
mehlaa 1.
First Mehl:
ਹਿੰਦੂ ਕੈ ਘਰਿ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਆਵੈ ॥
hindoo kai ghar hindoo aavai.
The Hindu comes to the house of a Hindu.
ਸੂਤੁ ਜਨੇਊ ਪੜਿ ਗਲਿ ਪਾਵੈ ॥
soot jane-oo paR gal paavai.
He puts the sacred thread around his neck and reads the scriptures.
ਸੂਤੁ ਪਾਇ ਕਰੇ ਬੁਰਿਆਈ ॥
soot paa-e kare buri-aa-ee.
He puts on the thread, but does evil deeds.
ਨਾਤਾ ਧੋਤਾ ਥਾਇ ਨ ਪਾਈ ॥
naataa Dhotaa thaa-e na paa-ee.
His cleansings and washings will not be approved.
ਮੁਸਲਮਾਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥
musalmaan kare vaddi-aa-ee.
The Muslim glorifies his own faith.
ਵਿਣੁ ਗੁਰ ਪੀਰੈ ਕੋ ਥਾਇ ਨ ਪਾਈ ॥
vin gur peerai ko thaa-e na paa-ee.Without the Guru or a spiritual teacher, no one is accepted.
ਰਾਹੁ ਦਸਾਇ ਓਥੈ ਕੋ ਜਾਇ ॥
raahu dasaa-e othai ko jaa-e.They may be shown the way, but only a few go there.
ਕਰਣੀ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਭਿਸਤਿ ਨ ਪਾਇ ॥
karNee baajhahu bhisat na paa-e.
Without the karma of good actions, heaven is not attained.
ਜੋਗੀ ਕੈ ਘਰਿ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਦਸਾਈ ॥
jogee kai ghar jugat dasaa-ee.
The Way of Yoga is demonstrated in the Yogi's monastery.
ਤਿਤੁ ਕਾਰਣਿ ਕਨਿ ਮੁੰਦ੍ਰਾ ਪਾਈ ॥
tit kaaraN kan mundraa paa-ee.
They wear ear-rings to show the way.
ਮੁੰਦ੍ਰਾ ਪਾਇ ਫਿਰੈ ਸੰਸਾਰਿ ॥
mundraa paa-e firai sansaar.
Wearing ear-rings, they wander around the world.
ਜਿਥੈ ਕਿਥੈ ਸਿਰਜਣਹਾਰੁ ॥
jithai kithai sirjaNhaar.
The Creator Lord is everywhere.
ਜੇਤੇ ਜੀਅ ਤੇਤੇ ਵਾਟਾਊ ॥
jete jee-a tete vaattaa-oo.
There are as many travellers as there are beings.
ਚੀਰੀ ਆਈ ਢਿਲ ਨ ਕਾਊ ॥
cheeree aa-ee dhil na kaa-oo.
When one's death warrant is issued, there is no delay.
ਏਥੈ ਜਾਣੈ ਸੁ ਜਾਇ ਸਿਞਾਣੈ ॥
eithai jaaNai so jaa-e sinjaaNai.
One who knows the Lord here, realizes Him there as well.
ਹੋਰੁ ਫਕੜੁ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣੈ ॥
hor fakaR hindoo musalmaaNai.
Others, whether Hindu or Muslim, are just babbling.
ਸਭਨਾ ਕਾ ਦਰਿ ਲੇਖਾ ਹੋਇ ॥
sabhnaa kaa dar lekhaa ho-e.
Everyone's account is read in the Court of the Lord;
ਕਰਣੀ ਬਾਝਹੁ ਤਰੈ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
karNee baajhahu tarai na ko-e.
without the karma of good actions, no one crosses over.
ਸਚੋ ਸਚੁ ਵਖਾਣੈ ਕੋਇ ॥
sacho sach vakhaaNai ko-e.
One who speaks the True Name of the True Lord,
ਨਾਨਕ ਅਗੈ ਪੁਛ ਨ ਹੋਇ ॥੨॥
naanak agai puchh na ho-e. 2
O Nanak, is not called to account hereafter. 2


Daas has cut this Shabad short as it is quite a long Shabad.

(Ang 1158)
Bhagat Kabeer Jee
ਹਮਰਾ ਝਗਰਾ ਰਹਾ ਨ ਕੋਊ ॥
hamraa jhagraa rahaa na ko-oo.
I have no quarrel with anyone.
ਪੰਡਿਤ ਮੁਲਾਂ ਛਾਡੇ ਦੋਊ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
panddit mulaa(n) chhaade do-oo. 1 rahaa-o.
I have abandoned both the Pandits, the Hindu religious scholars, and the Mullahs, the Muslim priests. 1Pause
ਬੁਨਿ ਬੁਨਿ ਆਪ ਆਪੁ ਪਹਿਰਾਵਉ ॥
bun bun aap aap pehiraavau.
I weave and weave, and wear what I weave.
ਜਹ ਨਹੀ ਆਪੁ ਤਹਾ ਹੋਇ ਗਾਵਉ ॥੨॥
jeh nehee aap tehaa ho-e gaavau. 2
Where egotism does not exist, there I sing God's Praises. 2
ਪੰਡਿਤ ਮੁਲਾਂ ਜੋ ਲਿਖਿ ਦੀਆ ॥
panddit mulaa(n) jo likh dee-aa.
Whatever the Pandits and Mullahs have written,
ਛਾਡਿ ਚਲੇ ਹਮ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਲੀਆ ॥੩॥
chhaad chale ham kachhoo na lee-aa. 3
I reject; I do not accept any of it. 3
ਰਿਦੈ ਇਖਲਾਸੁ ਨਿਰਖਿ ਲੇ ਮੀਰਾ ॥
ridai ikhlaas nirakh le meeraa.
My heart is pure, and so I have seen the Lord within.
ਆਪੁ ਖੋਜਿ ਖੋਜਿ ਮਿਲੇ ਕਬੀਰਾ ॥੪॥੭॥
aap khoj khoj mile kabeeraa. 47
Searching, searching within the self, Kabeer has met the Lord. 47

The Bhramins would not let the shadow of a so called low caste come in to contact with their body. They would take a bath saying they are filthy.

dieAw kpwh sMqoKu sUqu jqu gMFI squ vtu ]
dhaeiaa kupaah sunthokh sooth juth guntee suth vutt
Make compassion the cotton, contentment the thread, modesty the knot and truth the twist.
eyhu jnyaU jIA kw heI q pwfy Gqu ]
eaehu junaeoo jeea kaa hee th paaddae ghuth
This is the sacred thread of the soul; if you have it, then go ahead and put it on me.
nw eyhu qutY nw mlu lgY nw eyhu jlY n jwie ]
naa eaehu thuttai naa mul lugai naa eaehu julai n jaae
It does not break, it cannot be soiled by filth, it cannot be burnt, or lost.
DMnu su mwxs nwnkw jo gil cly pwie ]
dhunn s maanus naanukaa jo gal chulae paae
Blessed are those mortal beings, O Nanak, who wear such a thread around their necks.

ਸਲੋਕੁ ਮ ੧ ॥
shalok mehlaa 1.
Shalok, First Mehl:
ਦਇਆ ਕਪਾਹ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਸੂਤੁ ਜਤੁ ਗੰਢੀ ਸਤੁ ਵਟੁ ॥
de-i-aa kapaah santokh soot jat gandhee sat vatt.
Make compassion the cotton, contentment the thread, modesty the knot and truth the twist.
ਏਹੁ ਜਨੇਊ ਜੀਅ ਕਾ ਹਈ ਤ ਪਾਡੇ ਘਤੁ ॥
eihu jane-oo jee-a kaa ha-ee ta paadde ghat.
This is the sacred thread of the soul; if you have it, then go ahead and put it on me.
ਨਾ ਏਹੁ ਤੁਟੈ ਨ ਮਲੁ ਲਗੈ ਨਾ ਏਹੁ ਜਲੈ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥
naa eihu tuttai na mal lagai naa eihu jalai na jaa-e.
It does not break, it cannot be soiled by filth, it cannot be burnt, or lost.
ਧੰਨੁ ਸੁ ਮਾਣਸ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਜੋ ਗਲਿ ਚਲੇ ਪਾਇ ॥
Dhan so maaNas naankaa jo gal chale paa-e.
Blessed are those mortal beings, O Nanak, who wear such a thread around their necks.
ਚਉਕੜਿ ਮੁਲਿ ਅਣਾਇਆ ਬਹਿ ਚਉਕੈ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
chaukaR mul anaa-i-aa behi chaukai paa-i-aa.
You buy the thread for a few shells, and seated in your enclosure, you put it on.
ਸਿਖਾ ਕੰਨਿ ਚੜਾਈਆ ਗੁਰੁ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣੁ ਥਿਆ ॥
sikhaa kann chaRaa-ee-aa gur braahmaN thi-aa.
Whispering instructions into others' ears, the Brahmin becomes a guru.
ਓਹੁ ਮੁਆ ਓਹੁ ਝੜਿ ਪਇਆ ਵੇਤਗਾ ਗਇਆ ॥੧॥
ohu mu-aa ohu jhaR pa-i-aa vetgaa ge-i-aa. 1
But he dies, and the sacred thread falls away, and the soul departs without it. 1

The janeoo thread is put around the neck of a Hindu Bhramin stating he is high class and well versed in the Hindu scriptures. Guru Nanak Dev Jee refused to wear this thread when the Bhramins come to put it on him as a child, Nanak repeated the Shabad above. Guru Sahib made it quite clear the only way these 2 religions would purify their practice would be to praise the Lord Athe Pehar (24 hours). Both the Hindus and the Muslims tried to claim Guru Nanak was their Peer (saint).

Jains

Jain is a religion in which practices a lot of different forms of meditation and takes virtues like compassion to the extreme penance, they always keep their mouth covered believing bacteria is in the air which has life and if it enters the mouth they would have sinned by killing. They sweep the floor before them sweeping aside any Insects to prevent them from stepping on them.

This is most definately not Gurmat (teachings of the Guru) this is a hinderance in ones practice in attaining the Lord through devotional worship, the other thing is if we are not aware of something it is not a sin, Guru Sahib made us Gristhee (householder life in society) it is difficult to take up these extreme practices in society this is why Guru Sahib took extremism away from Sikhee to teach the world by example by living in it, just like when Guru Nanak went to do parchaar (preach) he wore their robes so they would listen to him, Gods message was sent to liberate the world and not just Sikhs.

(Ang 265)
ਜੈਨ ਮਾਰਗ ਸੰਜਮ ਅਤਿ ਸਾਧਨ ॥
jain maarag sanjam at saaDhan.
you may adopt the self-mortifying ways of the Jains and great spiritual disciplines;
ਨਿਮਖ ਨਿਮਖ ਕਰਿ ਸਰੀਰੁ ਕਟਾਵੈ ॥
nimakh nimakh kar sareer kattaavai.
piece by piece, you may cut your body apart;
ਤਉ ਭੀ ਹਉਮੈ ਮੈਲੁ ਨ ਜਾਵੈ ॥
tau bhee haumai mail na jaavai.
but even so, the filth of your ego shall not depart.
ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਨਾਮ ਸਮਸਰਿ ਕਛੁ ਨਾਹਿ ॥
har ke naam samsar kachh naahi.
There is nothing equal to the Name of the Lord.
ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਤ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਹਿ ॥੨॥
naanak gurmukh naam japat gat paahi. 2
O Nanak, as Gurmukh, chant the Naam, and obtain salvation. 2

ang 674)
ਜਾਪ ਤਾਪ ਭ੍ਰਮਨ ਬਸੁਧਾ ਕਰਿ ਉਰਧ ਤਾਪ ਲੈ ਗੈਨ ॥
jaap taap bhraman basuDhaa kar uraDh taap lai gain.
Chanting, deep meditation and penance, wandering over the face of the earth, the performance of austerities with the arms stretched up to the sky -
ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਨਹ ਪਤੀਆਨੋ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਜੋਗ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਜੈਨ ॥੨॥
eh biDh neh patee-aano thaakur jog jugat kar jain. 2
the Lord is not pleased by any of these means, though one may follow the path of Yogis and Jains. 2

Christianity

Guru Sahib talked more about the Eastern religions in his Baanee as they were slightly more spiritual and they were the areas he did his preaching, very little is said in Gurbaanee about Christians. Daas' personal view after talking to a few Christians is that they do not meditate on the Lord so therefore, their mind cannot be purified through the name of the Lord. They believe in virtues but these are a waste of time without Naam as one is only virtuous through self ego. They say Jesus was the Son of God, Guru Sahib says we are all the Sons and Daughters of God and we can become one to one with the Lord, Christians do not believe this, they do not believe in life after death, nobody knows the true teachings of Christianity as the bible has been changed numerous number of times, the women cover their heads in church the men don’t (no equality). Daas believes any faith which does not believe in liberation whilst alive (Jeevan Mukhatee) has weaknesses in its practice.

Buddhism

Buddhism is a beautiful religion created by lord Buddha he was a very rich prince who gave up his wealth for compassion, contentment and spiritual wisdom, it is very similar to Sikhee in the sense that one can be liberated whilst alive, they believe in many forms of meditation and it is a very virtuous religion spiritually, but sorry to say this beautiful faith which Daas himself loves also has a lot of flaws. Guru Sahib has not directly talked much about the Buddhs in his baanee but he has mentioned them along with the Jains, Yogees, Sidhs, etc as very spiritual beings.

Buddhists do not believe in God, they say the mind is another name for God once one purifies the filthy mind one will be liberated. This is totally true but as Daas has mentioned in previous posts, having faith in a supreme being (God) reduces ego quicker rather than saying 'I' have to purify 'MY' mind, this is what we are trying to kill 'THE I'.

(Ang 339)
ਜਬ ਹਮ ਹੋਤੇ ਤਬ ਤੁਮ ਨਾਹੀ ਅਬ ਤੁਮ ਹਹੁ ਹਮ ਨਾਹੀ ॥
jab ham hote tab tum naahee ab tum hahu ham naahee.
When I was, then You were not; now that You are, I am not.
ਅਬ ਹਮ ਤੁਮ ਏਕ ਭਏ ਹਹਿ ਏਕੈ ਦੇਖਤ ਮਨੁ ਪਤੀਆਹੀ ॥੧॥
ab ham tum eik bhe-e heh eikai dekhat man patee-aahee. 1
Now, You and I have become one; seeing this, my mind is content. 1


Buddhists shave their hair saying it keeps them simple and it hinders their practice they do not realize all spiritual energy comes from hair (rom), lord Buddha kept his Kes (hair). Women are not allowed to be ordained as Monks, they believe in celibacy; if everyone became a Buddhist what would happen to mankind? We would be extinct.

Buddhists do not earn a living they beg (bhikhsha). In countries like Thailand they are so well respected people offer them money, who would we beg off if we all became Buddhists, they meditate and spend most their time in monasteries, Guru Nanak Dev Jee declined this type of practice as it does nothing to liberate mankind. They worship idols and also believe in many gods and goddesses. Out of the 5 religions Daas has mentioned, Daas has honestly got to say this is a beautiful religion and spiritually have both eyes open.

(ang 7)
ਕੇਤੇ ਸਿਧ ਬੁਧ ਨਾਥ ਕੇਤੇ ਕੇਤੇ ਦੇਵੀ ਵੇਸ ॥
kete siDh buDh naath kete kete devee ves.
So many Siddhas and Buddhas, so many Yogic masters. So many goddesses of various kinds.


This Shabad states so many religions including the Buddhs only reached the realm of Gyan khand (spiritual wisdom) this is the 2nd khand out of 5, Dharm khand, Gyan khand, Saram khand, Karam khand and Sach khand where God himself resides in all his glory, this is an article on its own so we wont go in to too much detail.

(Ang 476)
ਜੋਗੀ ਜਤੀ ਤਪੀ ਸੰਨਿਆਸੀ ਬਹੁ ਤੀਰਥ ਭ੍ਰਮਨਾ ॥
jogee jatee tapee sani-aasee baho teerath bhramanaa.
The Yogis, celibates, penitents and Sannyaasees make pilgrimages to all the sacred places.
ਲੁੰਜਿਤ ਮੁੰਜਿਤ ਮੋਨਿ ਜਟਾਧਰ ਅੰਤਿ ਤਊ ਮਰਨਾ ॥੧॥
luNjit muNjit mon jataaDhar ant ta-oo marnaa. 1
The Jains with shaven heads, the silent ones, the beggars with matted hair - in the end, they all shall die. 1
ਤਾ ਤੇ ਸੇਵੀਅਲੇ ਰਾਮਨਾ ॥
taa te sevee-ale raamnaa.
Meditate, therefore, on the Lord.

How is Sikhee different?

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਜਾਣਹੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਤਾ ਆਪਿ ਮੁਹਹੁ ਕਢਾਏ ॥
satgur kee baaNee sat sat kar jaaNhu gursikhahu, har kartaa aap muhhu kadhaa-e.
O GurSikhs, know that the Bani, the Word of the True Guru, is true, absolutely true. The Creator Lord Himself causes the Guru to chant it.
ਗੁਰਸਿਖਾ ਕੇ ਮੁਹ ਉਜਲੇ ਕਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਜੈਕਾਰੁ ਸੰਸਾਰਿ ਸਭਤੁ ਕਰਾਏ ॥
gursikhaa ke muh ujle kare har pi-aaraa, gur kaa jaikaar sansaar sabhat karaa-e.
The Beloved Lord makes the faces of His GurSikhs radiant; He makes the whole world applaud and acclaim the Guru.
(Ang 308)


ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿ ਸਰੂਪੁ ਹੈ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਬਣੀਐ ॥
satgur kee banee sat saroop hai gurbaanee banee-ai.
The Word of the True Guru's Bani is the embodiment of Truth; through Gurbani, one becomes perfect.
(ang 304)

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਮਾਨਹੁ ਇਉ ਆਤਮ ਰਾਮੈ ਲੀਨਾ ਹੇ ॥੧੪॥
satgur kee baaNee sat sat kar maanhu i-o aatam raamai leenaa he. 14
Accept as True, Perfectly True, the Word of the True Guru's Bani. In this way, you shall merge in the Lord, the Supreme Soul. 14
(ang 1027)

ਧੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਆਈ ॥
Dhur kee baaNee aa-ee.
The Bani of His Word emanated from the Primal Lord.
ਤਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਚਿੰਤ ਮਿਟਾਈ ॥
tin saglee chint mittaa-ee.
It eradicates all anxiety.
(Ang 627)

How can it be any clearer that Baanee came from God himself through the spirit of Guru Nanak. This amazing faith is the most recent of faiths created by God, he sent Guru Nanak in 1469 to liberate the world after he saw all the other spiritual leaders failed as it is stated in one of the Shabads above, this faith took 230 years to create, this faith was created by 10 Gurus only 6 have written in the Guru Granth Sahib, 19 Bhagats and 11 Bhatts all these souls had purified their mind and become one with God so therefore they spoke the word of God.

The bhagats were from different faiths and so called lower castes this,shows the equality of this amazing faith. Guru Jee was sent to liberate mankind and spread the message others had failed to do, he took away all rituals, superstitions, extremism, caste system, gave Women equal rights and taught humans how to become one with the Lord in society.

jab ehu gehe bipran ki reet, main na karun in ki parteet

Guru Gobind Singh Jee says here when we bring rituals and extreme rules in our life like the bhramins I will not stand by you. An extreme Rehit without Athai Pehar 24 hour Naam Simran, virtuous living is not Gurmat this is where the Bhramins failed as they were not suitable to live in society and spread spiritual wisdom. If the mind has to do any form of Pakhand (hypocrisy) in order to keep a certain Rehit this is also not Gurmat as Guru Sahib kept us clear from Pakhand and blessed us with Sach (truthful living), we should let no practice hinder our loving devotion to God.

ਕਰਮ ਧਰਮ ਪਾਖੰਡ ਜੋ ਦੀਸਹਿ ਤਿਨ ਜਮੁ ਜਾਗਾਤੀ ਲੂਟੈ ॥
karam Dharam pakhandd jo deesehi tin jam jaagaatee loottai.
The religious rites, rituals and hypocrisies which are seen, are plundered by the Messenger of Death, the ultimate tax collector.
(Ang 747)


ਬੇਦ ਕਤੇਬ ਸਿਮ੍ਰਿਤਿ ਸਭਿ ਸਾਸਤ ਇਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਪੜਿਆ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਈ ॥
bed kateb simrit sabh saasat inH pai-aa mukat na ho-ee.
One may read all the books of the Vedas, the Bible, the Simritees and the Shaastras, but they will not bring liberation.
ਏਕੁ ਅਖਰੁ ਜੋ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਪੈ ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਸੋਈ ॥੩॥
eik akhar jo gurmukh jaapai tis kee nirmal so-ee. 3
One who, as Gurmukh, chants the One Word, acquires a spotlessly pure reputation. 3
ਖਤ੍ਰੀ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣ ਸੂਦ ਵੈਸ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਚਹੁ ਵਰਨਾ ਕਉ ਸਾਝਾ ॥
khatree braahmaN sood vais updes chahu varnaa kau saa(n)jhaa.
The four castes - the Kh'shaatriyas, Brahmins, Soodras and Vaishyas - are equal in respect to the teachings.
ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪੈ ਉਧਰੈ ਸੋ ਕਲਿ ਮਹਿ ਘਟਿ ਘਟਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਮਾਝਾ ॥੪॥੩॥੫੦॥
gurmukh naam japai uDhrai so kal meh ghatt ghatt naanak maajhaa. 4350
One who, as Gurmukh, chants the Naam, the Name of the Lord, is saved. In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, O Nanak, God is permeating the hearts of each and every being. 4350
(Ang 4350)


Guru Sahib states in this Shabad that the Gurus teachings are to liberate mankind not just Sikhs as stated in the Shabad above, Guru Sahib says be truthful in your own faith but you will not be liberated without meditating on the Lords name Athai Pehar 24 hours.

Guru sahib was strictly against conversions.

AMg 1
ang 1
Page 1
Bhai Gurdaas Jee
siqgur nwnk pRgitAw imtI DuMD jg cwnx hoAw]
sathigur naanuk prugattiaa mittee dhundh jug chaanun hoaa
With the emergence of the true Guru Nanak, the mist cleared and the light scattered all around. ijauN kr sUrj inkilAw qwry Cpy AMDyr ploAw]
jio kur sooruj nikaliaa thaarae shupae andhaer puloaa
As if at the sun rise the stars disappeared and the darkness dispelled.
isMG buky imrgwvlI BMnI jwey n DIr DroAw]
singh bukae mirugaavulee bhunnee jaaeae n dheer dhuroaa
With the roar of the lion in the forest the flocks of escaping deer now cannot have endurance. ijQY bwbw pYr DrY pUjw Awsx Qwpx soAw]
jithai baabaa pair dhurai poojaa aasun thaapun soaa
Wherever Baba put his feet, a religious place was erected and established.
isD Awsx sB jgq dy nwnk Awd mqy jy koAw]
sidh aasun subh juguth dhae naanuk aadh muthae jae koaa
All the siddh-places now have been renamed on the name of Nanak.
Gr Gr AMdr Drmswl hovY kIrqn sdw ivsoAw]
ghur ghur andhur dhurumusaal hovai keeruthun sudhaa visoaa
Everyhome has become a place of dharma where singing.
bwby qwry cwr ck nO KMf ipRQmI scw FoAw]
baabae thaarae chaar chuk nu khundd prithumee suchaa toaa
Baba liberated all four directions and nine divisions of earth.
gurmuK kil ivc prgt hoAw ]ò÷]
gurumukh kal vich purugutt hoaa Gurmukh (Guru Nanak) has emerged in this kaliyug, the dark age.

WOW this Shabad says it all about the pure Guru Nanak, there is no equal. Nanak was the Avtar of Kal Jug (dark age). Avtar means immortal being whose mind is pure and is sitting in Sach khand (the gate of truth) waiting for duty by the Lord to come and liberate the world. All the religions above were also created in Kal Jug.

ਸਰਬ ਧਰਮ ਮਹਿ ਸ੍ਰੇਸਟ ਧਰਮੁ ॥
sarab Dharam mehi sresatt Dharam. Of all religions, the best religion
ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਿ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਕਰਮੁ ॥
har ko naam jap nirmal karam. is to chant the Name of the Lord and maintain pure conduct.(ang 266)

ਸਗਲ ਧਰਮ ਮਹਿ ਸ੍ਰੇਸਟ ਧਰਮੁ ॥
sagal Dharam meh srestt Dharam. Of all faiths, this is the most sublime and excellent faith.
ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰਨਿ ਤੇਰਾ ਹੋਇ ਉਧਾਰੁ ॥
har simran teraa ho-e uDhaar.
Meditating in remembrance on the Lord, you shall be saved.
ਜਨਮ ਜਨਮ ਕਾ ਉਤਰੈ ਭਾਰੁ ॥੩॥
janam janam kaa utrai bhaar. 3
You shall be rid of the burden of countless incarnations. 3
(ang 895)

This Shabad is showing equality, he did not preach faith, he preached the name of the Lord in every line of his Baanee.

ਕਰਮ ਧਰਮ ਨੇਮ ਬ੍ਰਤ ਪੂਜਾ ॥
karam Dharam nem barat poojaa.
The karma of good actions, the Dharma of righteous living, religious rituals, fasts and worship -
ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਜਾਨੁ ਨ ਦੂਜਾ ॥੨॥
paarbrahm bin jaan na doojaa. 2
practice these, but do not know any other than the Supreme Lord God. 2
ਤਾ ਕੀ ਪੂਰਨ ਹੋਈ ਘਾਲ ॥
taa kee pooran ho-ee ghaal.
The works are brought to fruition,
ਜਾ ਕੀ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਅਪੁਨੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਨਾਲਿ ॥੩॥
jaa kee preet apune prabh naal. 3
who place their love in God. 3
(ang 199)

How amazing is Sikhee, Guru Sahib is saying practice religious rituals, fasts etc but if you keep hold of the name with every breath you will be liberated. (there is no need to practice these religious rituals).

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਜਿਨਾ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਗੀ ਤਿਨੀ ਵਿਚੇ ਮਾਇਆ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੨੯॥
kehai naanak gur parsaadee jinaa liv laagee tinee viche maa-i-aa paa-i-aa. 29
Says Nanak, by Guru's Grace, those who enshrine love for the Lord find Him, in the midst of Maya. 29
(ang 917)

Guru sahib states here that those who love the lord may have wealth, live house holders life, do all the deeds that need to be done in society, have many material luxuries but they will still be detached from all of them because they will have learnt how to let go through the love of Naam.

Sikhee is different from every faith, Daas can talk all day long about Sikhee through the reference of Gurbaanee, Daas realizes this article is very long and people struggle to read solid text so Daas will try and stop soon, you can judge for your self how Gurbaanee proves we are blessed to be Sikhs. We must have good karam (deeds) to be born into Sikh families but only if we realize what we are here for, so why waste time liberate yourselves through Amrit, Rehit, Naam and Baanee. A Sikh can not be liberated without these four.

Pritham rehit eh jaan, khandey ki pahul shakey
The first Rehit is Gurus Amrit.

Rehit bina na sikh kahaavai,
without Rehit (discipline) one can not be called a Sikh.

Without Naam and Gurbaanee one can not be liberated.

ਭਈ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਦੇਹੁਰੀਆ ॥
bhe-ee paraapat maanukh dhuree-aa.
This human body has been given to you.
ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਮਿਲਣ ਕੀ ਇਹ ਤੇਰੀ ਬਰੀਆ ॥
gobind milan kee eh teree baree-aa.
This is your chance to meet the Lord of the Universe.
ਅਵਰਿ ਕਾਜ ਤੇਰੈ ਕਿਤੈ ਨ ਕਾਮ ॥
avar kaaj terai kitai na kaam.
Nothing else will work.
ਮਿਲੁ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਭਜੁ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮ ॥੧॥
mil saaDhsangat bhaj keval naam. 1
Join the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy; vibrate and meditate on the Jewel of the Naam. 1
(Ang12)


In the Sikh faith Guru Sahib gave all Vadiyaaee (praise) to God, no human being.

ਤੇ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਉ ਰਲਿ ਮਿਲੇ ਜੈਸੇ ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਲਲੈ ਸਲਲ ਮਿਲਾਤਿ ॥੨॥੧॥੮॥
te har ke jan har si-o ral mile jaise jan naanak sallai salal milaat. 218
Those humble servants of the Lord merge with their Lord, O Nanak, like water merging with water. 218
(ang 1200)


In no faith does the soul merge with God unlike the Sikh faith stated above. Gurbaanee is a treasure we have failed to pass on to the world, the only way the world will be liberated is through baanee.

ਇਹੁ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਜਪੈ ਮਨਿ ਕੋਇ ॥
ehu niDhaan japai man ko-e.
One who chants this treasure in his mind -
ਸਭ ਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਤਾ ਕੀ ਗਤਿ ਹੋਇ ॥
sabh jug mehi taa kee gat ho-e.
in every age, he attains salvation.
ਗੁਣ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਨਾਮ ਧੁਨਿ ਬਾਣੀ ॥
gun gobind naam Dhun baaNee.
In it is the Glory of God, the Naam, the chanting of Gurbani.
ਸਿਮ੍ਰਿਤਿ ਸਾਸਤ੍ਰ ਬੇਦ ਬਖਾਣੀ ॥
simrit shaastar bed bakhaaNee.
The Simritees, the Shaastras and the Vedas speak of it.
ਸਗਲ ਮਤਾਂਤ ਕੇਵਲ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮ ॥
sagal mataaNt keval har naam.
The essence of all religion is the Lord's Name alone.
ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਭਗਤ ਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮ ॥
gobind bhagat kai man bisraam.
It abides in the minds of the devotees of God.
ਕੋਟਿ ਅਪ੍ਰਾਧ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਿ ਮਿਟੈ ॥
kott apraaDh saaDhsang mittai.
Millions of sins are erased, in the Company of the Holy.
ਸੰਤ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਤੇ ਜਮ ਤੇ ਛੁਟੈ ॥
sant kripaa te jam te chhuttai.
By the Grace of the Saint, one escapes the Messenger of Death.
ਜਾ ਕੈ ਮਸਤਕਿ ਕਰਮ ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਪਾਏ ॥
jaa kai mastak karam parabh paa-e.
Those, who have such pre-ordained destiny on their foreheads,
ਸਾਧ ਸਰਣਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਤੇ ਆਏ ॥੭॥
saaDh saran naanak te aa-e. 7
O Nanak, enter the Sanctuary of the Saints. 7
(Ang 296)

Daas has had veechar (discussions) with many religious people from many faiths and this has bought Daas so much closer to Sikhee, there is no faith like Sikhee, Daas is not being biased - only speaking the truth, Sikhee is not a religion it is a way of life to reunite our souls with the supreme soul God (Param Atma), this is not only for Sikhs it is for the whole of mankind. If anybody knows of even just 1 flaw in Sikhee please email Daas, Daas will try to resolve your query through the light of Gurbaanee as Daas is fully aware this faith is unique.

Jaago Gursikho, jaago, Panth di thae poore sansar di seva karo Naam thae bani da aasra lai ke, awake Gursikh brothers and sisters serve the Khalsa Panth and the Universe through the teachings of the true Guru (Sat Guru) by meditating 24 hrs with every breath.

Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Jee sacrificed all his family and many Gursikhs in battle for Chardee Kalaa (higher spirits, upliftment of Panth), (Saint soldier article) lets ask ourselves what are we doing for the upliftment of the Panth, Guru Sahib is only asking for time towards Sevaa and Simran. If every Gursikh in the Panth pulled together and did they’re little bit in spreading the true word of Guru Nanak Dev Jee Paatsaah Sikhee would be in Chardee Kalaa, there would be so many more Gurmukh sSjjan (beloved friends), and less quarreling over controversial issues which in the end only bring negativity between Gursikhs and the Panth stays at a stand still.

Can you please email this article to any Monae brothers and sisters you know (Sikhs with cut hair), or alternately introduce them to the blog. *monae brothers and sisters who have not come in to sikhi as yet. Next weeks article is 'Rehansbaaee keertan', why it is important to sit through a full Rehansbhaaee Keertan without going out of the Darbaar? Daas is not trying to promote any Jathebandee when one reads the article one will realize.

Sunday, February 05, 2006

Naam Drug

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਕਰਹੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਅਪਨੀ ਮੁਖਿ ਦੇਵਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਿਮਖਾਤੀ ॥੧॥
O Lord God, please bless me with Your Mercy, and pour Your Name into my mouth, even if for only an instant. 1
ਹਰਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਰਹਿ ਸਕਉ ਇਕ ਰਾਤੀ
Without the Lord, I cannot live for even a second.
ਜਿਉ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਮਲੈ ਅਮਲੀ ਮਰਿ ਜਾਈ ਹੈ ਤਿਉ ਹਰਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਮ ਮਰਿ ਜਾਤੀ ਰਹਾਉ
Like the addict who dies without his drug, I die without the Lord. Pause
(ang 668)


Here in this Shabad Guru RaamDaas Jee is doing a Bentee (plea) to Akaal Purakh (God) and begging for just one drop of Amrit-Naam to be put in to his mouth, he is also stating he cannot live without praising the Lord Vahiguroo for even a second just like a drug addict suffers and cries out without Heroin. He/she will do anything to get Heroin, they forsake self respect; self honour and go out and commit the saddest of crimes for that few seconds of buzz, these people will not rest until the drug is back into their system. This is the same way a Sikh suffers without Naam.

ਨਿਕਟਿ ਦੇਖੈ ਪਰ ਗ੍ਰਿਹਿ ਜਾਇ
The mortal does not see the Lord near at hand; instead, he goes to the homes of others.
ਦਰਬੁ ਹਿਰੈ ਮਿਥਿਆ ਕਰਿ ਖਾਇ
He steals their wealth and lives in falsehood.
ਪਈ ਠਗਉਰੀ ਹਰਿ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ
Under the influence of the drug of illusion, he does not know that the Lord is with him.
(ang 1139)


Many years before coming in to the fold of Sikhee, Daas used to take drugs. When we (myself and friends) used to go out clubbing to dance to Garage music we used to take Class B drugs just to be on the same level as other clubbers. The drugs we took were speed also known as Wizz and e-tablets. These drugs had a massive effect on the energy levels of ones body, no one with a straight head can go in to a dance club and dance all night and all day up to dinner time; they would be tired after the first hour and then begin to think 'wow' what are these people on! We also had to keep a bottle of Water with us to stop our body from de-hydrating, the same fast pace of dancing was kept all night. Every body was in total ecstasy, jolly, happy, loving and just enjoying themselves to the max because they were all on the same level. I remember what this drug did to me. I took this drug a couple of hours before entering the club, when I got in to the club and was hit by the music and happy faces all the energy in my body rushed to the top of my head and kept me dancing at a fast pace for several hours, the energy was sat at the top of my head for all these hours, this is what kept me going. We used to drive back from the clubs using highways and look at each other in the eye and we were all wide eyed, the reason for this, again is because the energy was in the top of the head, we used to smoke Marawana to help us come down from this state. This drug originally makes one lazy and drowsy but even this could not bring us down from this uplifted state. We used to get home in the early hours of the morning, around 7am and sneak in to bed, we then woke up around 2pm went downstairs sat in a corner all day drained from having no energy because it had all been used the night before, feeling weak and awful waiting for the next night to go back and do it all again. We ended up losing a lot of weight and our parents would call us amlee (drugy). I am aware I have not used the term 'Daas' in the top half of the article, the reason for this is I talked a lot about my past life and did not feel comfortable using the term daas for a total slave to ones mind.
Daas means to be a slave of Guru Sahib (God).

ਮੋਹ ਠਗਉਲੀ ਪਾਈਅਨੁ ਵਿਸਰਿਆ ਗੁਣਤਾਸੁ
Emotional attachment has drugged him, and he has forgotten the Lord, the treasure of virtue. ਮਤੁ ਜਾਣਹੁ ਜਗੁ ਜੀਵਦਾ ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਮੁਇਆਸੁ
Don't think that he is alive in the world - he is dead, through the love of duality.
(ang 643 )


Daas would now like to sum up what Daas is trying to say in the message above. Firstly everything what Daas did in the past life was totally and utterly against Gurmat - Gurus teachings and had no value or goal. Daas was a slave to the mind. Daas is not recommending drugs as being a good thing they destroy our life just like they did to Daas. The point Daas wants to make is through experience, the drug (speed) only keeps ones energy up for a certain length of time after this length of time one feels a come down in energy and feels down in the dumps until this drug is taken again. THE DRUG NAAM (meditation) does exactly the same as the worldly drug the only difference is once Naam reaches the higher consciousness (top of the head, crown chakra) just like the worldly drug did, through Abhiyaas (practice) and blessing the Naam will stay there and one will constantly stay uplifted, one will never feel down, never suffer from negative worldly emotions, ones eyes will constantly be widened like Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh Jee for example in his photographs, (stare). The reason for this is when the body is intoxicated in extreme energy it shows in the eyes, one will always have plenty of energy, one will not need to sleep at night, ones concentration through Naam will keep one awake, ones face will be khiriya (glow) have lali (radiance), one will feel the energy in every hair of the body (rom) ones hair contains a large amount of energy and produces a lot more through Naam this is the reason why most of the praatan Bhagats were all Kesadhaaree, daas was told this by a Woman practicing spirituality through a different faith. Daas will talk about rom at another time.

The eyes of a Naam Abhiyaasee

ਏ ਮਨ ਹਰਿ ਜੀ ਧਿਆਇ ਤੂ ਇਕ ਮਨਿ ਇਕ ਚਿਤਿ ਭਾਇ ॥
O mind, meditate on the Dear Lord, with single-minded conscious concentration.
ਹਰਿ ਕੀਆ ਸਦਾ ਸਦਾ ਵਡਿਆਈਆ ਦੇਇ ਨ ਪਛੋਤਾਇ ॥
The glorious greatness of the Lord shall last forever and ever; He never regrets what He gives.
(ang 653)


Here are a few physical examples for when energy rises to our head for a very short period of time: When somebody instantly gets very frightened by something their eyes are immediately widened because of the energy rushing to their head. When somebody is having a great laugh and joke, very excited if one ever notices, the energy again will be in the head area. Boxers relax for a full day before going in to the ring, again to preserve energy. We talk about all this energy staying in the crown of our heads (Dasam Duaar) through Naam 24 hours a day, what is the reason for this? God is energy, God is a force, God is a power in every single atom of the universe so when we meditate and reach high levels of spirituality we are bringing energy of the universe (God) in to our very own being which settles in the Dasam Duaar and the force of this energy causes it to open. This is why the more Abhiyaas one does the more ones concentration increases and more energy is produced, one cannot imagine how much energy a Bhramgyanis being has produced as he/she is Parmesar (God). Daas remembers listening to a lecture by Late Sant Singh Maskeen Jee, he quoted a Bhramgyanis aura has a 12 mile radius, all beings can feel the vibrant layers of energy coming from this immortal pure being. Daas humbly agrees with this statement by Maskeen Jee, 'Bhramgyani Aap Parmesar'. A person who reaches this state is God himself so all beings in the universe will feel his/her aura as God created the universe and reunited us with ones self.

(ang 273)
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਸਭ ਸ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਕਾ ਕਰਤਾ
The God-conscious being is the Creator of all the world.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਸਦ ਜੀਵੈ ਨਹੀ ਮਰਤਾ
The God-conscious being lives forever, and does not die.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਜੀਅ ਕਾ ਦਾਤਾ
The God-conscious being is the Giver of the way of liberation of the soul.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਪੂਰਨ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਬਿਧਾਤਾ
The God-conscious being is the Perfect Supreme Being, who orchestrates all.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਅਨਾਥ ਕਾ ਨਾਥੁ
The God-conscious being is the helper of the helpless.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਕਾ ਸਭ ਊਪਰਿ ਹਾਥੁ
The God-conscious being extends his hand to all.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਕਾ ਸਗਲ ਅਕਾਰੁ
The God-conscious being owns the entire creation.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਆਪਿ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ
The God-conscious being is himself the Formless Lord.
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਕੀ ਸੋਭਾ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਬਨੀ
The glory of the God-conscious being belongs to the God-conscious being alone.
ਨਾਨਕ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਸਰਬ ਕਾ ਧਨੀ ॥੮॥੮॥
O Nanak, the God-conscious being is the Lord of all. 88


This is one of the reasons why we hear a lot about Praatan Singhs doing physical sevaa constantly without getting tired. When we get to this stage where Shabad and Surat become one in the crown chakra of the head and create a massive amount of energy in the head area everyday people will find it difficult to look in ones eyes, comments will also be made like I bet you’ve had a good nights sleep; your eyes are always wide open. In the same way we also don’t want to make eye contact with everyday beings because we know exactly what our being is going through, it also becomes very difficult to string a sentence together when we are in full focus this is why a lot of Abhiyaasee (concentrated practice) Gurmukhs don’t speak much - they are not on the same level as society so they say its better staying quite. Daas has heard a lot of stories about the more Simran one does the louder the Shabad gets. This is not true, the more Abhiyaas (practice) one does, the lighter the Shabad gets because it becomes one to one with our being but will get stronger in concentration, this comes in the form of a constant pulling in the head area, the head also feels radiant and the mind is in total tik-ka (steady) to be in this state 24 hours is an amazing blessing by Guru Sahib. This energy/pull is the same sort of feeling as when one lifts his eyebrows up or just stares at something.

(ang 5)
ਅਮੁਲੁ ਬਖਸੀਸ ਅਮੁਲੁ ਨੀਸਾਣੁ ॥
Priceless are His Blessings, Priceless is His Banner and Insignia.


Just want to add: Daas is not making anything up it is all personal experience only with Guru Jees Kirpaa. THERE IS NO DRUG MORE POWERFUL THAN THE DRUG OF NAAM AS THIS WILL KEEP US UPLIFTED ATHAI PEHAR (24 hours) ONLY WHEN SHABAD AND SURAT (concentration) COME TOGETHER IN THE DASAM DUAAR (tenth gate).

Once the drug of Naam becomes one-to-one with our mind, body and soul it is very difficult to let go, even if one tried not to Jap Naam, Naam would vibrate in ones being automatically this; is the power of this amazing drug. Just like to add now that Daas has tasted both worldly and spiritual drugs the worldly drug is of no comparison even in the slightest way to the spiritual drug

ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਮਰਿ ਜਾਈਐ ਮੇਰੇ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਜਿਉ ਅਮਲੀ ਅਮਲਿ ਲੁਭਾਨਾ ॥੨॥
Without the Name, I would die; the Name of my Lord and Master is to me like the drug to the addict. 2
(ang 697)

ਹਿਰਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਗਾਸੁ ਗਿਆਨ ਗੁਰ ਗੰਮਿਤ ਗਗਨ ਮੰਡਲ ਮਹਿ ਧਿਆਨਾਨਾਂ ॥
My heart is illuminated by spiritual wisdom; meeting the Guru, I meditate in the Sky of the Tenth Gate.
(ang 339)

DAAS WOULD JUST LIKE TO REPEAT THE ENERGY IN WHICH DAAS HAS TALKED ABOUT THROUGHOUT THIS ARTICLE ONLY REACHES THE TOP OF THE HEAD CROWN CHAKRA THROUGH INTENSE NAAM ABHIYAAS AND GURU JEES KIRPA. THIS ENERGY IS CREATED BY SHABAD AND SURAT (CONCENTRATION) COMING TOGETHER IN THE CROWN CHAKRA AND THEN STAYING THERE IN THE FORM OF DHIAAN (CONCENTRATION). ONCE THE SHABAD AND SURAT SETTLE IN THE CROWN CHAKRA AND STAY THERE THIS IS WHEN THE DASAM DUAAR (TENTH GATE) OPENS, TO KEEP THE TENTH GATE OPEN SHABAD AND SURAT HAVE TO STAY IN THE CROWN CHAKRA MEANING TOP OF HEAD. WE WILL KNOW WHEN SHABAD AND SURAT ARE THERE, IT FEELS LIKE A CONSTANT KHICH (PULL) IN THE TOP OF THE HEAD AREA IT IS NOT PAINFUL IT IS ALWAYS UPLIFTING TO ONES BEING. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP DHIAAN UP HERE IN GIRASTEE (HOUSE HOLDER LIFE) BUT THROUGH ABHIYAAS IT NATURALLY STAYS THERE. IN THE EARLY STAGES THE DHIAAN WILL KEEP ON COMING BACK DOWN TO THE LOWER CONCIOSNESS BELOW THE CHIN AREA, THIS IS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT WITH GURU JEES KIRPA AND THE RAS OF THE HIGHER CONCIOUSNESS ONE WILL ALWAYS STRIVE ON TAKING DHIAAN BACK TO THE TOP, THE MOST DIFFICULT PART IS KEEPING IT THERE.

ਭਾਠੀ ਗਗਨੁ ਸਿੰਙਿਆ ਅਰੁ ਚੁੰਙਿਆ ਕਨਕ ਕਲਸ ਇਕੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
The Tenth Gate of my crown chakra is the distilling fire, and the channels of the Ida and Pingala are the funnels, to pour in and empty out the golden vat.
(ang 92)

ਊਂਧ ਕਵਲੁ ਜਿਸੁ ਹੋਇ ਪ੍ਰਗਾਸਾ ਤਿਨਿ ਸਰਬ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਡੀਠਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੨॥
Those, whose inverted lotus of the crown chakra is illuminated, see the Immaculate Lord everywhere.
(ang 108)


One has to read both these Shabads in full to get a clear picture in what Guru Jee is saying, please take time out to research.

ਸਾਗਰ ਮਹਿ ਬੂੰਦ ਬੂੰਦ ਮਹਿ ਸਾਗਰੁ ਕਵਣੁ ਬੁਝੈ ਬਿਧਿ ਜਾਣੈ ॥
The drop is in the ocean, and the ocean is in the drop. Who understands, and knows this?
ਉਤਭੁਜ ਚਲਤ ਆਪਿ ਕਰਿ ਚੀਨੈ ਆਪੇ ਤਤੁ ਪਛਾਣੈ ॥੧॥
He Himself creates the wondrous play of the world. He Himself contemplates it, and understands its true essence. 1
ਐਸਾ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੈ ਕੋਈ ॥
How rare are those who contemplate this spiritual wisdom.
ਤਿਸ ਤੇ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਪਰਮ ਗਤਿ ਹੋਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Through this, the supreme state of liberation is attained.
ਦਿਨ ਮਹਿ ਰੈਣਿ ਰੈਣਿ ਮਹਿ ਦਿਨੀਅਰੁ ਉਸਨ ਸੀਤ ਬਿਧਿ ਸੋਈ ॥
The night is in the day, and the day is in the night. The same is true of hot and cold.
ਤਾ ਕੀ ਗਤਿ ਮਿਤਿ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਮਝ ਨ ਹੋਈ ॥੨॥
No one else knows His state and extent; without the Guru, this is not understood. 2
ਪੁਰਖ ਮਹਿ ਨਾਰਿ ਨਾਰਿ ਮਹਿ ਪੁਰਖਾ ਬੂਝਹੁ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ॥
The female is in the male, and the male is in the female. Understand this, O God-realized being!
ਧੁਨਿ ਮਹਿ ਧਿਆਨੁ ਧਿਆਨ ਮਹਿ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਅਕਥ ਕਹਾਨੀ ॥੩॥
The music of shabad is in the concentration, and knowledge is in concentration. Become Gurmukh, and speak the Unspoken Speech.
ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਮਹਿ ਮਨੂਆ ਪੰਚ ਮਿਲੇ ਗੁਰ ਭਾਈ ॥
The Light is in the mind, and the mind is in the Light. The Guru brings the five senses together, like brothers.
ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨ ਕੈ ਸਦ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਜਿਨ ਏਕ ਸਬਦਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥੪॥੯॥
Nanak is forever a sacrifice to those who enshrine love for the One Word of the Shabad.
(ang 878
)

This is an amazing shabad by Guru Nanak Dev Jee explaining to us how any one of these cannot live with out the other i.e, the ocean is in the drop just as the drop is in the ocean, the night is in the day just as the day is in the night, the female can not live without the male just as the male can not live without the female, then Guru Sahib says there is no point having Shabad without concentration just as concentration will be of no use without shabad. The moral is it is difficult to japna naam athe pehar, it is even more difficult to Jap Naam Athai Pehar with single minded concentration, there is no progression without concentration. May Guru Sahib bless us with addiction of the universes most powerful drug -> NAAM.

Stay posted for next weeks article 'HOW IS SIKHI DIFFERENT?' Please can you introduce this blog to Monae (Punjabi brothers and sisters who have not come in to sikhi) relatives, friends and family as next weeks article will be interesting for them to read. lso would you like Daas to post stories, shabads and the background of every Bhagat in Guru Granth Sahib Jee? Please reply.
Please search the ARCHIVES section for more posts