Gobind Sarvar 2nd Annual Sikh History Competition Ages 11-12 Package B
Important Dates: Sunday November 11, 2012 – Review/Info Session @ 7:30 pm Saturday November 17, 2012 – Qualification Exam @ 3:30 pm Saturday November 24, 2012 – Main Event Game Show @ 6:30 pm
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Published by: Sikschool.com, California USA Sikhya curriculum(C) (sikhschool.com) (2009) This book is published solely for non‐profit with the kind efforts of volunteers, qualified or experienced in the field of Sikh religion and Punjabi language. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of PUBLISHER, or as expressly permitted by law. Enquiries concerning reproduction should be sent to PUBLISHER, at ([email protected])
Lesson 1 Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji 4 Bhai Lehna Ji’s Life as Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Sikh 6 Lesson 2 Bhai Lehna Ji and Guru Ji’s Requests 8 Complete Surrender to Guru Nanak Dev Ji 9 Lesson 3 Guru Jot at Khadur Sahib 11 Gurmukhi Script 13 Lesson 4 Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji’s Love for Children 14 Lesson to Humayun 15 Guru-Ka-Langar and Mata Khivi Ji 16 Lesson 5 Sri Guru Amar Das Ji 17 Early Life of Sri Guru Amar Das Ji 17 Longing For Guru Sahib 19 Lesson 6 Blessed by Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji 20 Devotion to Service 21 Lesson 7 Guru Jot to Sri Guru Amar Das Ji 23 Baba Datu Ji’s Aimosity 23 Role of Baba Budha Ji in Finding Guru Amar Das Ji 24 Lesson 8 Social Reforms 26 Guru –Ka-Langar 27 Lesson 9 Baoli Sahib at Goindwal Sahib 28 Establishment of Sikh Ceremonies and Festivals 29 Preservation of Life 30 Lesson 10 Guru Amar Das Ji and Equality 31 Establishment of Manji System 31 Equal Respect and Dignity for Women 32 Lesson 11 Some Notable Sikhs of Guru Amar Das Ji 34 Lesson 12 Sri Guru Ram Das Ji 37 Early Life of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji 37 Marriage With Bibi Bhani Ji 38 Lesson 13 Seva 40 Guru Ram Das Ji Becomes Guru: Platform of Humility 41 Lesson 14 Respect From Emperor Akbar 43 Lesson 15 Appearance of a Holy Spot 45 Limitless Humility 47 Lesson 16 Guru Ram Das Ji Visits Lahore 48
Package B Page 1 gurmiq isiKAw
Our Beloved Guru Sahibs
1 Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji sRI gurU nwnk dyv jI 6 Sri Guru Har Gobind Ji sRI gurU hir goibMd jI Parkash 1469, Rai Bhoe Di Talwandi, Parkash 1595, Gur Ki Wadali Nankaana Sahib Father Guru Arjan Dev Ji Father Sri Kalyan Das Ji Mother Mata Ganga Ji Mother Mata Tripta Ji Wife Mata Damodri Ji, Mata Naanki Ji Sister Bibi Naanki Ji Mata Mahan Devi Ji Wife Mata Sulakhni Ji Children Baba Gurditta Ji, Baba Atal Rai Ji Children Baba Sri Chand Ji, Baba Lakhmi Das Baba Anhi Rai Ji, Baba Suraj Mal Ji Ji Guru Teg Bahadar Ji, Bibi Veero Ji
Joyti Jot 1539, Kartarpur Sahib Joyti Jot 1644, Kiratpur Sahib
2 Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji sRI gurU AMgd dyv jI 7 Sri Guru Har Rai Ji sRI gurU hir rwey jI Parkash 1504, Matey Di Saran, Parkash 1630, Kartarpur Sahib Mukatsar Father Sri Pheru Mall Ji Father Baba Gurditta Ji Mother Mata Daya Kaur Ji Mother Mata Nihal Kaur Ji Wife Mata Khivi Ji Wife Mata Krishan Kaur Ji Children Baba Dasu Ji, Baba Datu Ji Children Baba Ram Rai Ji Bibi Amro ji, Bibi Anokhi Ji Guru Harkrishan Ji Joyti Jot 1552, Khadoor Sahib Joyti Jot 1661, Kiratpur Sahib
3 Sri Guru Amar Das Ji sRI gurU Amr dws jI 8 Sri Guru Har Krishan Ji sRI gurU hir ikRSn jI Parkash 1479, Basrke, Amritsar Parkash 1656, Kiratpur Sahib Father Sri Tej Bhan Ji Mother Mata Sulakhani Ji Father Guru Har Rai Ji Wife Mata Ramo Ji Children Baba Mohan Ji Baba Mohri Das Ji Mother Mata Krishan Kaur Ji Bibi Bhaani Ji, Bibi Daani Ji Joyti Jot 1664, Delhi Joyti Jot 1574, Goindwal Sahib
4 Sri Guru Ram Das Ji sRI gurU rwm dws jI 9 Sri Guru Teg Bahadar Ji sRI gurU qyg bhwdr jI Parkash 1534, Chuna Mandi, Lahore Parkash 1621, Guru Ke Mahal, Father Sri Hardas Ji Amritsar Sahib Mother Mata Daya Kaur Ji Father Guru Hargobind Ji Wife Mata Bhaani Ji Mother Mata Nanki Ji Children Baba Prithi Chand Ji Wife Mata Gujri Ji Baba Mahan Dev Ji Children Guru Gobind Singh Ji Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Joyti Jot 1581, Goindwal Sahib Joyti Jot 1675, Delhi
5 Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji sRI gurU Arjn dyv jI 10 Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji sRI gurU goibMd isMG jI Parkash 1563, Sri Goindwal Sahib Parkash 1666, Patna Sahib Father Guru Teg Bahadar Ji Father Guru Ram Das Ji Mother Mata Gujri Ji Mother Mata Bhani Ji Wife Mata Sundar Kaur Ji, Mata Ajit Kaur Ji Wife Mata Ganaga Ji Mata Sahib Kaur Ji Children Sahibzaada Ajit Singh Ji Children Guru Hargobind Ji Sahibzaada Jhujaar Singh Ji Sahibzaada Jorawar Singh Ji Joyti Jot 1606, Lahore, Pakistan Sahibzaada Fateh Singh Ji Joyti Jot 1708, Hazoor Sahib, Nanderh Baba Lakhmi Das Ji Bibi Nanki Ji Sister Sons Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Baba Sri Chand Ji
Sikh
Bibi Amaro Ji Baba Datu Ji Daughters Sons Bibi Anokhi Ji Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji Baba Dasu Ji
Sikh
Baba Mohan Ji Daughters Sons Sri Guru Amar Das Ji Baba Mohri Ji
Bibi Daani Ji Bibi Bhaani Ji SonSikh In-Law
Baba Pirthi Chand Ji Wife Sons Sri Guru Ram Das Ji Baba Mahan Dev Ji
Son
Mother Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Son
Bibi Veero Ji Daughter Sri Guru Hargobind Ji 5 Sons
Grandson
Baba Ram Rai Ji Son Sri Guru Har Rai Ji Son Baba Gurditta Ji
Son Baba Atal Rai Ji
Sri Guru Har Krishan Ji Baba Anhi Rai Ji
Grandfather Baba Suraj Mal Ji Sri Guru Teg Bahadar Ji
Son Sahibjaada Ajit Singh ji Sahibjaada Jhuzaar Singh Ji Sons Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Sahibjaada Jorawar Singh Ji Sahibjaada Fateh Singh Ji
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Lesson 1 Date:______
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji
Date of Parkash: March 31, 1504 (vYswK vdI 1, 5 vYswK sMmq 1561) Place of Parkash: Mattay Di Sarai, Muktsar Sahib Father's Name: Bhai Pheru Mal Ji Mother's Name: Mata Daya Kaur Ji Mahal (Wife): Mata Khivi Ji Sons: Baba Dasu Ji, Baba Datu Ji Daughters: Bibi Amaro Ji, Bibi Anokhi Ji Gurgaddi: September 3, 1539(4 A~sU sMmq 1596) Joti Jot: March 29, 1552(3 vYswK sMmq 1609) Calendar dates: English Calendar; Lunar calendar; Bikrami Calendar
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji‟s previous name was Bhai Lehna Ji. Bhai Lehna Ji‟s father, Bhai Pheru Mal Ji, was employed as the treasurer to the Governor of Ferozepur (i&rojpur). His mother‟s name was Mata Daya Kaur Ji. Bhai Pheru Mal Ji gave Bhai Lehna Ji a good education. At the age of fifteen, Bhai Lehna Ji married Bibi Khivi Ji in the village of Khadur. In 1524 AD, Bhai Pheru Mal Ji moved to Khadur and opened a store there. Bhai Pheru Mal Ji was a devout worshipper of the goddess Durga. Every year he would take other villagers with him to visit the goddess Durga‟s temple. After Bhai Pheru Mal Ji died in 1526, Bhai Lehna Ji started leading the group of villagers. In 1532, on his way to Jawala Ji, Bhai Lehna Ji decided to visit Kartarpur. He had heard from Bhai Jodh Ji that Guru Nanak Dev Ji lived there. He had heard Bhai Jodh Ji singing the Gurbani of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and wanted to meet Him. Bhai Lehna Ji decided to go to Jawala Ji via Kartarpur Sahib. When his party reached near Kartarpur Sahib, Bhai Lehna Ji asked them to wait at the nearby village, and He Himself rode towards Kartarpur Sahib to visit Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The all-knowing (jwxI jwx) Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji came to the outskirts of Kartarpur Sahib to greet Bhai Lehna Ji. But Bhai Lehna Ji
Page 4 gurmiq isiKAw did not recognize Guru Nanak Dev Ji since he had never seen Guru Sahib before. Bhai Lehna Ji asked Guru Sahib the way to the Dharamsala (now known as Gurdwara Sahib) where Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji recited Gurbani. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji said, “Please follow me. I am also going there." When they reached the door of the Dharamsala, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji said to Bhai Lehna Ji, "Please fasten your mare to the stake and go in through that door." When Bhai Lehna Ji entered the door, he was surprised to see that the One who had shown him the way earlier, was actually Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Bhai Lehna Ji felt sorry and fell at Guru Sahib‟s feet and said, “It was my fault that l was riding and You were walking." As Bhai Lehna Ji placed his forehead on Guru Sahib‟s feet, he was blessed with Naam Simran and bliss. Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked, “Bhai; what is your name?" Bhai Lehna Ji replied, "My name is Lehna." Guru Sahib said, "Bhai Lehna, you are to take (laina lYxw) and I am to give (dena dyxw).” Bhai Lehna Ji was moved by Guru Sahib‟s charismatic and humble personality and could not sleep at night. Around midnight Bhai Lehna Ji noticed that a lady with extraordinary glow on her face was sweeping the floors at Guru Sahib‟s front yard - vyhVw. In curiousty, Bhai Lehna Ji asked the lady, “Who are you?” She smiled and said, “Every year, you visit my shrines to seek my blessings, but you don‟t recognize me? I am the Goddess Durga.” She continued further, “Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the personification of Waheguru Ji. I get my powers by serving Him.” Bhai Lehna Ji decided to give up everything and dedicate every breath of his life to Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s seva.
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Key Gurmat Message: Even though He was the Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji stayed humble. That can be seen in how He led Bhai Lehna Ji to His house without disclosing that He was Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Bhai Lehna Ji’s Life as Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Sikh
From the day he met Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Bhai Lehna Ji served Him day and night with deep love and devotion. Bhai Lehna Ji who now had become a Sikh wanted to stay permanently with Guru Sahib. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji advised him to go home for a few days and settle his household affairs before joining. Bowing to the command of Guru Sahib, he returned to Khadur. Bhai Lehna Ji informed his wife, Mata Khivi Ji, about his plans to serve Guru Sahib. He handed over his shop to his eldest son, Bhai Dasu Ji. After a few days, he left for Kartarpur Sahib with a large sack of salt on his head. Mata Khivi Ji asked, "Why don‟t you hire a laborer to carry the bundle of salt to Kartarpur Sahib?" Bhai Lehna Ji replied, "You can get the work done from a laborer, but it is better to do Seva (Guru‟s service) yourself." On reaching Kartarpur, Bhai Lehna Ji left the bundle of salt at Guru Sahib‟s home and went to the fields where Guru Sahib was supervising the work. The Sun was setting as he reached the fields. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji had three loads of fodder collected and tied up to be carried home for the cattle. Since it had rained in the afternoon, the fodder was wet and muddy. When Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji found the peasants unwilling to carry the bundles home, he asked his two sons. They, too, declined saying that they would send a servant to perform the task. At that moment Bhai Lehna Ji appeared on the scene. He picked up the bundles one upon the other and carried all three bundles to Guru Sahib‟s home. Bhai Lehna Ji's expensive clothes were completely soiled. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's wife, Mata Sulakhni Ji, was unhappy to see a Bhai Lehna Ji treated in such a way. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji told her that the load was carried by one who was fit to carry it. She didn't seem to understand and said, "See how his clothes have become dirty.” Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Page 6 gurmiq isiKAw responded, "It is not dirt, it is saffron.” For a moment Mata Sulakhni Ji didn't believe her eyes. It was indeed saffron sprinkled all over Bhai Lehna Ji‟s dress! It is said that the three bundles that he carried represented the three authorities: the spiritual, the temporal, and the successor to carry Guru Jot, which were to fall on his shoulders shortly.
QUESTIONS:
Test your knowledge: Match the correct items in each column.
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji: Match correct information
Mother's Name March 31, 1504
Date of Parkash Mattay Di Sarai, Muktsar Sahib
Joti Jot September 3, 1539
Father's Name Mata Daya Kaur Ji
Place of Parkash Mata Khivi Ji
Gurgaddi March 29, 1552
Mahal (Wife) Bhai Pheru Mal Ji
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Lesson 2 Date:______
Bhai Lehna Ji and Guru Ji’s Requests
In those days, handling dead animals, critters, or entering filthy areas was thought to be only the work of the outcasts, or Shuddras. Bhai Lehna Ji was from a higher Khatri caste. To remove the differences of caste and social status from the mind of Bhai Lehna Ji, Guru Sahib asked him to throw out a dead rat. Immediately, on hearing Guru Sahib‟s command, Bhai Lehna Ji threw the dead rat out. On another day, while returning after bathing, Guru Sahib threw the bowl (kOlw) he was carrying into a dirty pond. Guru Sahib asked his sons, Sri Chand Ji and Lakhmi Das Ji, to retrieve it, but they refused to do so. Guru Sahib looked at Bhai Lehna Ji, who at once jumped into the dirty pond with his brand-new clothes on and took the bowl out.
Key Gurmat Message: Bhai Lehna Ji was always following Guru Sahib's Hukam.He never questioned and never let his ego (haumai, hwaumy) get in the way. We should believe in Guru Sahib with the same devotion and faith, and always obey His Hukam.
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Complete Surrender to Guru Nanak Dev Ji
It was Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s routine to get up early in the morning (after midnight; four hours before sunrise) and go bathe in the Ravi (rwvI) River. Guru Sahib was always accompanied by Bhai Lehna Ji, who was in charge of his clothes. It was winter with freezing wind blowing and hail beginning to fall. Bhai Lehna Ji endured the cold as if it had been the mildest weather. When Guru Sahib came out of the water at sunrise, He congratulated Bhai Lehna Ji on his endurance. Guru Sahib was very pleased with Bhai Lehna Ji‟s devotion and his commitment to Seva. Once, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was holding a coin in his hand and asked the Sikhs, “What is in my hand?” Everyone responded that you have a coin in your hand. When Guru Sahib asked Bhai Lehna Ji, he said, “Only you know what is in your hand, it is the whole universe and much more that I don‟t know.” During one winter night, a portion of the compound wall in Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s house collapsed due to the heavy rain. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji desired that the wall be fixed immediately, preferably that very night. Guru Sahib‟s sons thought it was a job for the masons, who would fix it the next morning. Bhai Lehna Ji volunteered to raise the wall as desired by his Master. Bhai Lehna Ji had hardly completed the job when Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji came and said, "It is all uneven." Bhai Lehna Ji demolished the wall and started doing it all over again. This time, too, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was not satisfied. The wall was pulled down once again. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s sons advised Bhai Lehna Ji not to obey unreasonable orders. But Bhai Lehna Ji would not listen to them. He obeyed his Master and started building the wall once more. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was extremely pleased with Bhai Lehna Ji‟s devotion. Level 4 Page 9 gurmiq isiKAw
Once, an unusually large Sangat (congregation) had gathered and continuous rain fell for three days; it became impossible to light a fire or cook food. There was nothing to eat for the Sangat. Guru Sahib said to his elder son, “Climb this kikar tree, shake it, and it shall rain fruit and sweets to satisfy theSangat.” Sri Chand replied, “Nothing can fall from the kikar but thorns or bitter fruit.” Guru Sahib then addressed his other son, “Climb this tree and shake it.” Lakhmi Das questioned, “Have sweets ever fallen from trees?“ Guru Sahib then told Bhai Lehna Ji to do what his sons had refused. Bhai Lehna Ji climbed the tree, shook it, and heaps of every imaginable form of Indian sweets fell down. When the Sangat had enjoyed the sweets and satisfied their hunger, they began to sing praises of Guru Sahib and his faithful disciple. Bhai Lehna Ji promptly explained that he did not have the power to do what had happened. It was all the miraculous effect of Guru Sahib's words. Guru Sahib, on hearing this, said, “My words are profitable, but only those who obey them shall obtain the fruit thereof.” It was then, for the first time, Guru Sahib's sons and many of His Sikhs realized the value of obedience. There were several other occasions when Guru Nanak Dev Ji tested the devotion of His Sikhs, including His own sons. Each time, it was Bhai Lehna Ji who was able to win Guru Sahib‟s blessings. It was because of this deep devotion towards Guru Nanak Dev Ji that Bhai Lehna Ji was chosen to succeed Him as the next Guru.
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Lesson 3 Date:______
Guru Jot at Khadur Sahib
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was so pleased with Bhai Lehna Ji that He preferred to call him “Angad,” (ang means limb, referring to Bhai Lehna Ji as a part of Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s body). On September 3, 1539, Guru Nanak Dev Ji seated Angad Dev Ji on His throne and placed “Guru Jot” into Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji. Waheguru Ji‟s Jot that came to this earth as Guru Nanak Dev Ji now resided in Guru Angad Dev Ji. Then Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked Guru Angad Dev Ji to move from Kartarpur Sahib and make Khadur Sahib the new Sikh Center. Guru Sahib ordered Sikhs to go to Khadur Sahib to get Guru Nanak Jot‟s blessings and enlightenment. idqw Coif krqwrpur bYiT KfUry joiq jgweI] (BweI gurdws jI) (Guru Angad Dev Ji) left Kartarpur and spread His light (Guru Jot) while sitting at Khadur.
Guru Angad Dev Ji came to Khadur Sahib, but He could not bear the physical separation of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Angad Dev Ji went to his aunt's house at Khadur Sahib and instructed his aunt, Mata Sabhrai Ji, not to disclose his whereabouts to anyone. Guru Sahib shut himself in a room, and chose to stay in deep meditation. Days and months passed, Guru Angad Dev Ji continued to stay in the room, in bliss from the union with Waheguru Ji. Guru Nanak Dev Ji used to hold daily morning and evening Katha and Kirtan Diwans. Six month passed by, but the Sikhs still did not get to see their Guru Sahib. Lots of Sikhs visited Khadur Sahib, but they could not locate Guru Sahib. They went to Kartarpur Sahib but returned disheartened due to not finding him there.
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One day, Sikhs requested Baba Budha Ji to reveal the Guru to them. Baba Budha Ji took the Sikhs with him to Khadur Sahib. He went straight to Mata Sabhrai Ji‟ house. Mata Ji came forward to greet Baba Budha Ji and Sikhs. When Baba Budha Ji asked her about Guru Angad Dev Ji, she said nothing. Baba Budha Ji understood that Guru Sahib was at her home. Baba Budha Ji asked Sikhs to recite Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s Gurbani and do Kirtan. As soon as Guru Angad Dev Ji heard Sangat reciting Gurbani, he came out of the room to join Sangat. Sikhs were delighted to see their Guru. When Guru Angad Dev Ji came out of His seclusion, the Sikhs saw in Him the same aura, the same characteristics, the same speech, as Guru Nanak Dev Ji. joiq Ehw jugiq swie sih kwieAw Pyir pltIAY ] (sRI guru gRMQ swihb jI, 966) They shared the same One Light and the same way; just the body changed.
Baba Budha Ji requested Guru Angad Dev Ji, "There is no one who can guide the Sikhs. Please give audience to the Sikhs and guide them to the right path." Guru Angad Dev Ji accepted Baba Budha Ji‟s request. Guru Sahib selected an elevated site near Khadur Sahib and set up a Dharamsala (Gurdwara Sahib) there. Guru Sahib spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji through daily Katha and Kirtan Diwans at Khadur Sahib. In the early morning hours, Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Shabads were sung in praise of God. Guru Sahib spread Guru Nanak Sahib's message of Naam, honest living, and of loving service to mankind.
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Key Gurmat Message: All Guru Sahiban have the same light (Waheguru‟s Jot). Over time, the same Guru Jot has been transferred from one Guru Sahib to the next. In the present, the same Jot resides in Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj.
Gurmukhi Script
“Gurmukhi” literally means “from the mouth of the Guru." Gurmukhi is a script that is used to write the Punjabi Language. The Gurmukhi alphabet contains thirty-five letters. The Gurmukhi alphabet did not exist before Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Most commonly, the Punjabi language was written in the Landa script. The Landa script had no vowel sounds, which had to be imagined by the reader in order to make sense of the writing. Therefore, there was a need of a script which could faithfully reproduce the true meaning and message of the the hymns of the Gurus. Guru Angad Dev Ji modified or refined the Landa script to reflect pronunciation and tonal expressions, and developed what is known as Gurmukhi today. Gurmukhi has become the medium of writing the Punjabi language.
QUESTIONS:
Fill in the blanks with the correct words: Guru Sahib meditation Guru Granth Sahib Ji Waheguru‟s jot
1. Guru Sahib shut himself in a room, and chose to stay in deep ______. 2. All Guru Sahiban have the same ______
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Lesson 4 Date:______
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji’s Love for Children
Every day, Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji spent time with children. He, himself, taught children the Gurmukhi script after the morning diwan (prayers). He used to write primers for children with his own hands because there were no printing presses back then. Guru Sahib spent a lot of time with children and brought awareness about the importance of spiritual education, worldly education, and a strong body.
Before the evening diwan, Guru Angad Dev Ji organized wrestling and other sports events for entertainment and fitness of his devotees. He advised everyone to do practical service and do honest labor. Guru Sahib himself always twisted strings, which were used to weave cots. He listened to the problems of his devotees and advised solutions.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Angad Dev Ji placed a lot of importance in education. He wanted all children to work hard at school and do well in their studies.
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Lesson to Humayun
When Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun, the emperor of India, Humayun came to seek the blessings of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji to regain his lost empire. At the time, when Humayun came to Khadur Sahib, Guru Sahib was busy teaching children. Since children‟s education was very important to Guru Sahib, He continued to teach while Humayun was waiting. Humayun got offended for not being attended to immediately and put his hand on the handle of his sword. Humayun did this to threaten Guru Ji as if he was going to attack Him. Guru Sahib looked up calmly, smiled and said, "It is wrong for a king to flee from the battlefield and take out his anger on spiritual men." Hearing these bold words of wisdom from Guru Sahib, Humayun realized his mistake and begged for forgiveness. Guru Sahib forgave him, blessed him, and said, "Though your path may be difficult and long, you will win back the throne of Hindustan.” Guru Angad Dev Ji‟s words came true. After some time, Humayun succeeded in getting the throne of Delhi again, and he wanted to do a favor for Guru Sahib. By that time, Guru Amar Das Ji was on the throne of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Sahib replied that Guru's House does not need a personal favor, but providing justice to all, irrespective of race, religion, caste or creed, will be seen as a favor.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Ji is fearless and forgiving. Sooner or later, Guru Sahibs‟ word always come true.
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Guru-ka-Langar and Mata Khivi Ji
Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji continued the practice of maintaining Guru-ka- langar (free community kitchen), to provide food to the devotees and to the needy, and to create a casteless society. Mata Khivi Ji, the pious and noble wife of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji, organized and supervised the langar and personally saw to the needs of the devotees who came to listen to Guru Sahib's discourse on the Divine Word. She lovingly rendered service in the langar in utmost humility, cooking and serving food with her own hands. Mata Khivi Ji prepared langar with great love and kindness. Her heart and soul was deeply dedicated to serving the sangat (the holy congregation). Says Balvand in the Ode of Coronation:
blvMf KIvI nyk jn ijsu bhuqI Cwau pqRwlI ] lµgir dauliq vMfIAY rsu AMimRqu KIir iGAwlI ] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI - AMg 966) Blessed is Kehivi, the Guru's noble and pious wife, who is like a dense leafy tree, giving shade to all. The langar is a source of unlimited bounty in her care.
The institution of langar grew and developed into an important part of the Sikh way of life.
Key Gurmat Message: Langar is an important part of Sikhi. Mata Khivi Ji showed us that the Langar should be prepared and served with love and devotion.
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Lesson 5 Date:______
Sri Guru Amar Das Ji
Date of Parkash: May 5, 1479 (vYswK sudI 14, 9 jyT sMmq 1536) Place of Parkash: Basrke, District Amritsar Father: Sri Tej Bhan Ji Mother: Mata Sulakhni Ji Mahal (Wife): Mata Mansa Devi Ji Sons: Baba Mohan Ji, Baba Mohri Ji Daughters: Bibi Dani Ji, Bibi Bhani Ji Gurgaddi: March 26, 1552. (30 cyq sMmq 1609) Joti Jot: September 1, 1574 (2 A~sU sMmq 1631)
Legend for calendar dates: English Calendar; Lunar Calendar; Bikrami Calendar
Early Life of Sri Guru Amar Das Ji
Sri Guru Amar Das Ji‟s Parkash took place in the village Basarkay (bwsrky) on May 5, 1479, in the present district of Amritsar. His father was Baba Tej Bhan Ji and His mother, Mata Sulakhni Ji.Sri Amar Das Ji was only ten years younger than Guru Nanak Dev Ji.He earned his livelihood by agriculture and trade. He was married to Mata Mansa Devi Ji and had two sons, Baba Mohri Ji and Baba Mohan Ji, and two daughters, Bibi Dani Ji and Bibi Bhani Ji. Like his father, Sri Amar Das Ji carried on the rituals of the Hindu faith with great devotion. It had become part of his daily life to recite Vedic 'Mantras,' give charity to Brahmins, worship gods and goddesses, and discriminate based on the Hindu caste system. At the age of 42, he went for a holy dip to Hardwar and other holy places. Hindus believe a dip in the river Ganga washes away one‟s sins. After that, he made it a routine to go on a pilgrimage every year. Once returning from a pilgrimage, an ascetic became Sri Amar Das Ji‟s companion, thinking him to be a great saint. The ascetic cooked for Level 4 Page 17 gurmiq isiKAw himself and avoided taking food from others. In the company of Sri Amar Das Ji, he began to eat the food Sri Amar Das Ji cooked. He accompanied Sri Amar Das Ji to Basarkay. After staying for a few days with Sri Amar Das Ji, the ascetic, while leaving asked him, "Who is your Guru (spiritual teacher)?" Sri Amar Das Ji replied, "I have not adopted a Guru yet." At this the ascetic was enraged at Sri Amar Das Ji and said, "I have been taking food from one without a Guru. All my pilgrimages have become fruitless. All my life until now has become useless." Having said this, the ascetic departed but left Sri Amar Das Ji very pensive.
Key Gurmat Message: It is very important to have a Guru to guide us in life. jy sau cMdw augvih sUrj cVih hjwr ] eyqy cwnx hoidAW gur ibnu Gor AMDwr ]2]
(sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 463) If a hundred moons were to rise, and a thousand suns appeared, even with such light, there would still be pitch darkness without the Guru. ||2||
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Longing For Guru Sahib
After his departure, Sri Amar Das Ji thought, “The ascetic was right. A person without a Guru cannot get spiritual bliss and his mind cannot attain peace. For complete bliss, one needs a spiritual Guru just as one needs a teacher to learn other things." Thoughts like this kept on rising in his mind throughout the night and consequently he could not get any sleep. Early in the morning, he heard the sweet melody of a hymn being sung by Bibi Amro Ji, while she churned butter for the family. Sri Amar Das Ji was so charmed by the lovely melody and stirring words that he felt a deep solace and peace in his heart. Bibi Amro Ji, the daughter of Guru Angad Dev Ji, was married to Sri Amar Das Ji‟s nephew. On coming to know that she was singing a hymn of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, on whose throne now sat her father, he requested her to take him to Guru Angad Dev Ji. At Khadur Sahib, Guru Angad Dev Ji received Sri Amar Das Ji with great affection and love. One glimpse of the Guru enlightened Sri Amar Das Ji‟s heart and soul. He knew at once that he had found the true Guru, the raft that would take him across the sea of illusion. He immediately placed his head at the feet of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji and prayed. "Please be kind and accept me as your disciple." Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji gave Charnamrit (crnwimRq) and blessed Sri Amar Das Ji with Naam (holy Word). So deep and intense was his passion to remain in the presence of the Guru that he found pleasure only in serving his Master and the Sangat.
Key Gurmat Message:
Guru Ji‟s Gurbani has great effect on our minds and hearts,
especially, if we sing it early in the morning.
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Lesson 6 Date:______
Blessed By Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji
Sri Amar Das Ji was 62 years old at the time when he met Guru Angad Dev Ji. His old age did not deter him from Seva and Simran. He saw that the devotees, who came for audience with Guru Sahib, took up Seva voluntarily Some started cleaning utensils in the Langar (community kitchen). Some would bring firewood from the forest while others took up other small jobs. Sri Amar Das Ji gave up the worldly relationships and like a faithful Sikh, got busy in the service of the Guru and His Sangat. Sri Amar Das Ji requested the cook, Bhai Jodh, and took up the service of bringing water for the Langar. He also took up the responsibility of bringing water from the well for the morning bath of Guru Angad Dev Ji. Sri Amar Das Ji started taking meals in Pangat (sitting together on the floor for meals). The illusion of low and high caste and pride of being a Khatri left his mind. When he got time, he took up cleaning utensils, at the same time applying his mind to listen and recite the Guru's Word.
Key Gurmat Message: Those who serve Guru Sahib and the Sangat with selfless loving devotion are blessed with honor.
syvk kau syvw bin AweI ]
hukmu bUiJ prm pdu pweI ] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 292) The servant's purpose is to serve;obeying the Lord's Command, the supreme status is obtained.
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Devotion to Service
Sri Amar Das Ji spent the next few years in total love and devotion to the service of Guru Angad Dev Ji. He was so devoted that only Guru Ji could understand his devotion and Divine Love. Guru Angad Dev Ji had experienced the same, when Guru Nanak Dev Ji entranced his heart and soul. A new town named Goindwal was being built near Khadur Sahib (KfUr swihb). Guru Angad Dev Ji tested the obedience of Sri Amar Das Ji by asking him to go and make Goindwal his residence and to help in building the new town. Saying „Sat Bachan (siq bcn)‟ to Guru Sahib‟s command, Sri Amar Das Ji started living in Goindwal. But the pain of separation was too much for him to bear. Every day early in the morning, Sri Amar Das Ji would come from the Beas River carrying a pitcher of water on his head for Guru Sahib's bath. While returning from Khadur Sahib to Goindwal, Sri Amar Das Ji never turned his back on Khadur Sahib: he walked backards with his eyes still looking towards his master. He preferred death to turning his back on his Master. During one dark rainy winter night, Amar Das Ji, as usual, was carrying a pitcher full of Beas water for Guru Angad Dev Ji. As he walked by the house of a weaver (someone who makes cloth), Sri Amar Das Ji tripped over a wooden peg fixed in the ground by the weaver and fell in the weaver's loom pit. At the sound of the fall, the weaver called from inside, "Who is it at this early hour?" The weaver's wife told him to calm down and said, "Who else could have fallen at this time? It must be „Amru nithawan (inQwvW)‟ (homeless Amar Das), who never sleeps and never rests."
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Sri Amar Das Ji heard these words and exclaimed, “You must be out of your senses if you think I am homeless, for I am of the Guru. Guru Sahib is my home; Guru Sahib is the home of all.” Sri Amar Das Ji had casually said to the weaver woman, “You must be out of your senses.” After this episode, she lost her wits and started behaving like an insane person. In the morning, the weaver took her along and presented themselves in the morning congregation that gathered before Guru Angad Dev Ji. The weaver narrated to Guru Sahib all that had taken place early that morning and prayed, "May our mistake be forgiven and my wife be cured." When the weaver narrated the above episode to Guru Angad Dev Ji, the word 'nithawan inQwvW' (homeless) used by the weaver's wife moved Guru Sahib deeply. Guru Sahib embraced Sri Amar Das Ji to his bosom and lovingly blessed him, "My Amar Das! My Amar Das is the home of the homeless; He is the shelter for the unsheltered; the protector of the weak and the downtrodden; the abode for those without any abode; he is the hope for the hopeless; He is the last refuge of those for whom no one cares." Guru Sahib advised the congregation, "Never speak bad words of anybody." Guru Sahib pardoned the weaver woman and she got well.
Key Gurmat Message: By doing Seva, one becomes closer to Guru Sahib and earns Guru Sahib‟s pleasure. Sri Amar Das Ji was more than 60 years old, but he still did Seva all day long. Those who do lot of Seva receive Guru Sahib‟s spiritual blessings.
sqgur kI syvw Aiq suKwlI jo ieCy so Plu pwey ] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 31)
Serving the True Guru brings a deep and profound peace, and
one's desires are fulfilled.
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Lesson 7 Date:______
Guru Jot to Sri Guru Amar Das Ji
It was mentioned earlier also that Sri Amar Das Ji served Guru Angad Dev Ji and his Sangat with full devotion for twelve years. Pleased with his service to the Guru and Sangat, Guru Angad Dev Ji asked Baba Budha Ji to anoint Guru Amar Das Ji to Gurgaddi, the throne of Guru Nanak on March 29, 1552. The “Guru Jot” that Guru Nanak Dev Ji placed in Guru Angad Dev Ji, now resided in Guru Amar Das Ji. All the Sikh Sangat bowed to the Guru, but Guru Angad Dev Ji‟s elder son, Baba Datu Ji, was unhappy at not being granted the Gurgaddi. Guru Angad Dev Ji directed Guru Amar Das Ji to settle in Goindwal Sahib to spread the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji far and wide.
Baba Datu Ji’s Animosity
Guru Amar Das Ji, as per the instructions of Guru Angad Dev Ji, settled at Goindwal Sahib. At that time, Guru Amar Das Ji was 72 years old. At Khadur Sahib, Guru Angad Dev Ji‟s son Baba Datu Ji proclaimed himself a Guru, but the Sikhs did not accept him. At this, Baba Datu Ji full of rage went to Goindwal Sahib and struck Guru Amar Das Ji with his foot saying, "What? Only yesterday a servant of ours, made into a Master today?" But Guru Amar Das Ji humbly knelt down and began rubbing Baba Datu Ji‟s feet saying, "O son of my Master, my flesh is old and bones hard; they must have hurt your foot." After this incident, Guru Amar Das Ji quietly left Goindwal Sahib, to let Baba Datu Ji do whatever he Level 4 Page 23 gurmiq isiKAw wished to do. Baba Datu Ji declared himself Guru again, this time at Goindwal Sahib. The Sikhs despised him for insulting Guru Amar Das Ji.On seeing the Sikhs' contempt towards him, Baba Datu Ji loaded his newly acquired wealth on a camel and returned to Khadur Sahib. On his way he encountered some robbers who seized the camel and the wealth. One of the robbers struck Baba Datu Ji on the same foot with which he had kicked Guru Sahib. Baba Datu Ji‟s foot became swollen and caused him great pain for the rest of his life.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Amar Das Ji had full control over His emotions. He did not get angry even when Baba Datu Ji hit Him.
Role of Baba Budha Ji in Finding Sri Guru Amar Das Ji
The Sikhs were very much distressed at losing their Guru. They searched all over but could not find him anywhere. Guru Nanak Dev Ji once blessed Baba Budha Ji, a bRhmigAwnI (Brahmgiani) Gursikh, by saying, “buiFAw, qYQoN auhly kdy nW hosW,” which means,“the Guru Nanak Jot would never hide from you.” The Sikhs requested Baba Budha Ji, to help find Guru Sahib. As per Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s blessings, Baba Budha Ji knew where „Guru Jot‟ was, but he was very humble and did not want to show his powers. Baba Budha Ji along with other Sikhs came to Goindwal Sahib. There they found Guru Sahib‟s horse that would not allow anyone except Guru Sahib to ride on it. Baba Budha Ji and the Sangat prayed to Guru Sahib, put a saddle on Guru Ji‟s horse, and then anxiously followed it. The horse made her way to a room on the outskirts of Guru Sahib's village Basarkay, and stood before its door. On the door was written, "Whoever opens this door is no Sikh of mine, nor am I his Guru." Baba Budha Ji did not open the door, but made an opening in the back wall Level 4 Page 24 gurmiq isiKAw and entered through there. Guru Sahib could not disregard the love and devotion of His Sikhs and returned to Goindwal Sahib. Guru Sahib's return was celebrated with illuminations, rejoicing and feasting. A large number of devotees flocked to Goindwal Sahib to have Guru Sahib‟s darshan (drSn) and obtain guidance.
Key Gurmat Message: Gursikhs who are already close to Guru Sahib can help us get closer to Guru Sahib to get Guru Ji‟s blessings.
jnm mrx duhhU mih nwhI jn praupkwrI Awey ] jIA dwnu dy BgqI lwiein hir isau lYin imlwey ]2] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 749) Those generous, humble beings are above both birth and death.They give the gift of the soul, and practice devotional worship; they inspire others to meet the Lord. ||2||
QUESTIONS:
Fill in the blanks with the correct words: emotions Guru Sahib disregard Baba Budha Ji Sikhs
1. Guru Amar Das Ji had full control over His ______. He did not get angry even when Baba Datu Ji hit Him. 2. The Sikhs requested ______to help find Guru Sahib. 3. Guru Sahib could not ______the love and devotion of his ______and returned to Goindwal Sahib. 4. Gursikhs who are close to ______can help us get closer to Guru Sahib to get Guru Ji‟s blessings.
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Lesson 8 Date:______
Social Reforms
In Guru Sahib‟s time, society was divided into small segments based on caste, economic status, gender, region, religion, etc. A person was considered high or low based on family he/she was born in, and not according to his/her deeds. Divisions based on gender, caste and religious belief were so extreme that: People from different castes would not sit together or eat together. People from different castes would use different wells to draw water or to bathe. People from lower castes were not allowed to enter the temples that belonged to higher caste. Untouchables (the lowest caste) were not even allowed to pray or enter the temple. Women, even if they belonged to higher caste families, were not allowed to enter certain temples, offer prayers, or perform religious rites.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached against discrimination and hate based on race, caste, and status. Guru Sahib aimed at creating a casteless and classless society in which all were treated with respect and dignity and where one member did not exploit the other. Guru Amar Das Ji took steps to ensure his Sikhs were taking steps to practice what they had been learning since Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
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Guru-Ka-Langar (gurU kw lMgr)
Guru Amar Das Ji continued to preach Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s message of equality for mankind. Everyone who came to seek His blessings accepted this message. The food was prepared and distributed to the rich and the poor alike, while they took their seats in a row on the carpeted ground (Pangat, pMgq). Every person was asked to eat in Guru-ka-Langar before he/she could see Guru Sahib. Even Emperor Akbar and the King of Haripur ate in Guru-ka-Langar before they were permitted to have an audience with Guru Sahib. It was Guru Sahib‟s directive – pihly pMgq, pwCy sMgq (Pehlay Pangat, Pachhay Sangat): first take a meal in the Langar, and then join the congregation. Guru-ka-Langar was kept up by the contributions from the devotees. When Akbar offered land for the Guru-ka-Langar, Guru Sahib did not accept it, saying that it is a Sikh institution and must be supported by the offerings and services of the devotees. Every day, fresh food was prepared and served in Langar, which continued day and night. Guru Sahib directed his Sikhs to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the Langar hall and asked Sikhs to recite Gurbani the entire time while cooking and serving Langar. Whatever was left over was given to the birds and animals and even to the fish in the river, Beas, flowing close by. Once, Guru Amar Das Ji came on a visit to the Langar. Bhai Handal Ji, who was kneading dough at the time, was delighted to see him, and prepared to greet him. But in order to maintain the cleanliness, he did not let his hands touch the ground. He put them behind his back, and bowed before the Guru. Guru Sahib was very pleased with Bhai Handal Ji because he maintained respect, both of the Guru and the Langar.
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Lesson 9 Date:______
Baoli Sahib (bwaulI swihb) at Goindwal Sahib
Before Guru Sahib‟s time, there were different wells for people of different castes. Untouchables were not allowed to get water from a well that belonged to higher caste people. By now, Guru Sahib‟s followers from all castes and classes had learned to eat together by sitting on the floor in Guru-ka-Langar. Guru Amar Das Ji took another step to promote equality, and to end centuries‟ old divisions. Guru Sahib wanted His Sikhs to share the same well and bathe from it too. Therefore Guru Sahib decided to build a Baoli, a staircase leading to the source of water. The digging of the Baoli started in 1556 and was completed in 1559. When completed, the Baoli had 84 steps. The Sikh devotees would come in large numbers to Goindwal Sahib, take a bath in the Baoli, and listen to Kirtan and katha (explanation of Gurbani and Sikh History). On completion of the Baoli, Guru Sahib blessed the Sangat by saying, "Whoever will bathe and recite Japuji Sahib with loving devotion on each of the 84 Paurees (step), will experience great peace and happiness. Also, that person will escape from the cycle of eighty four lakh (8.4 Million) forms of life; Joona– jUnW." In the recent times, the Baoli has been beautifully built and artistically decorated. The walls are adorned by rows of frescoes (paintings engraved in color on plaster) depicting scenes from Sikh history. When one crosses the gateway of the Baoli, one enters the enclosure beneath the big dome. Its walls are marbled and studded with colored stone. Many patterns, especially of flower vases, are engraved in the marble slabs. The passage down the 84 steps is lined with marble on the side, Level 4 Page 28 gurmiq isiKAw as well as on the steps.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Amar Das Ji took steps to promote equality and to create a society where everyone lived with dignity and respect.
siqguru isK kw hlqu plqu svwrY ] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 286)
Guru Sahib fulfills his Sikh’s needs for this world and the next.
Establishment of Sikh Ceremonies and Festivals
Guru Sahib issued a directive to all Sikhs to assemble twice a year, on Baisakhi (April) and Diwali (November) festivals, either at Goindwal Sahib or at the Manji of their area. Guru Sahib laid down Sikh ceremonies to make Sikhs distinct from the Hindus. Guru Sahib prescribed the marriage ceremony, when one of the Sikhs, Bhai Dayala Ji, complained that the Brahmins had refused to perform his daughter's marriage. Guru Sahib asked Sikhs to perform Sikh marriage ceremony in the presence of Guru Sahib and Sangat by reciting Gurbani. In a Sikh ceremony, the couple takes four circles (Lavan -lWvW) around Guru Sahib or Gurbani, while in a Hindu marriage ceremony the couple takes seven Lavan around a fire. Guru Sahib also made the recitation of Anand Sahib and Ardas compulsory for a Sikh wedding. The new ceremony constituted a distinct break from Hinduism. Similarly, Guru Sahib gave special directions for a Sikh funeral. Guru Sahib‟s grandson, Bhai Sundar Ji, has mentioned the funeral ceremony in „Sadd‟ (Ang. 923 of SGGS). Hymns in the praise of God are to be sung before and after the cremation. There is to be no crying or syapa because death is natural and inevitable, and takes place according to the Will of God.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Sahib made Sikhism a distinct religion with its own sangat centers and ceremonies.
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Preservation of Life
Guru Amar Das Ji greatly valued human life and regarded it as a wonderful opportunity to merge with Waheguru Ji. The body is the temple of God and as such, it should be looked after and taken care of properly. One day, as Guru Sahib approached a decaying house, He quickly rode past it. When the Sikhs saw this, some questioned if Guru Sahib was afraid of death. Guru Sahib smiled and said He is not afraid of death but He believes in avoiding unnecessary risks. If we protect the body and look after it, we can perform holy and charitable work. Guru Sahib elaborated the idea with an example. If we provide proper fertilizer, water etc., to a fruit tree, it blossoms and bears fruit. Similarly if we maintain a healthy body, it becomes easier to meditate and do charitable work.
Key Gurmat Message: One must maintain a healthy body and use it to earn an honest living, meditate, and do charitable work.
nwnk so pRBu ismrIAY iqsu dyhI kau pwil ]2] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, AMg 554)
QUESTIONS:
Fill in the blanks with following words promote valued distinct dignity healthy body opportunity
1. Guru Amar Das Ji took steps to ______equality and to create a society where everyone lived with ______and respect. 2. Guru Amar Das Ji greatly ______human life and regarded it as a wonderful ______to merge with Waheguru Ji. 3. Guru Sahib made Sikhism a ______religion with its own sangat centers and ceremonies. 4. One must maintain a ______and use it to earn an honest living, meditate, and do charitable work. Level 4 Page 30 gurmiq isiKAw
Lesson 10 Date:______
Guru Amar Das Ji and Equality
Guru Amar Das Ji strongly believed in equality for all people. This meant to treat everyone - men and women, rich and poor, no matter where they came from – with equal respect and dignity. He spread this message through the following:
Guru-ka-Langar: Guru Sahib preached “Pehlay Pangat pachay Sangat” (pihly pMgq pwCy sMgq). Everyone eats together on the ground at the same level.
Baoli Sahib: Guru Sahib ended centuries‟ old divisions based on caste system by asking Sikhs to share the same well and bathe from the same well. Guru Ji appointed both men and women to go out and preach about Sikhi and Naam.
Guru Sahib made Sikhism a distinct religion with its own sangat centers and ceremonies.
Establishment of Manji Sahib
Before Guru Sahib‟s time, a typical preacher was a male Brahmin or, in some instances, a high caste Khatri. Guru Amar Das Ji spread Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s message throughout India by appointing 22 devout Sikh preachers called Masands. The preacher sat on a Manji (a cot) to convey Guru Sahib‟s message while the congregation sat around the Manji or cot. Manji was awarded purely on merit, irrespective of one‟s caste, gender, or social status. Each Manji or sangat center was established wherever there was a sizeable population of Sikh devotees. Each Masand (head of a Manji) was also responsible for the offerings of the Sangat (the Dasvand-10% of one‟s income or 1 tenth of income donated), which the Sangat made as a token of their respect to the Guru. The Sikhs' offerings were used for langar, and
Level 4 Page 31 gurmiq isiKAw paying the expenses of the local chapters; the surplus was passed on to the Guru‟s golak at Goindwal Sahib.
Equal Respect and Dignity for Women
Guru Amar Das Ji stood for equal respect and dignity for women. Guru Sahib took the following great steps towards uplifting women's status in society. 1. Guru Sahib forbade the practice of parda, the veiling of women. In His congregation, women were not allowed to veil their faces 2. Guru Sahib prohibited syapa, the beating of thighs and crying by women on the death of a relative; instead, he exhorted all to sing God's praises and accept His Will 3. Guru Sahib forbade the practice of sati, in which widows burn themselves alive on the funeral pyres of their dead husbands. Guru Sahib said, “True Satis are those who honor their husbands in their hearts and not those who burn themselves on the funeral pyre. Those are considered Satis who live contented, adorn themselves with good conduct, and cherish the Lord." Var Suhi ki- Slok Mahala 3, Ang-787). To be exact, Guru Sahib said, sloku mÚ 3 ] sqIAw eyih n AwKIAin jo miVAw lig jlµin@ ] nwnk sqIAw jwxIAin@ ij ibrhy cot mrMin@ ]1] mÚ 3 ] BI so sqIAw jwxIAin sIl sMqoiK rhMin@ ] syvin sweI Awpxw inq auiT sMm@wlµin@ ]2] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, 787)
4. Guru Sahib not only forbade the practice of sati, but also encouraged widows to remarry. 5. Guru Sahib reversed the then existing practice of excluding women from preaching by appointing women among the 22 preachers who Level 4 Page 32 gurmiq isiKAw
were placed in charge of sangat centers called Manjis (mMjI). Two Manjis were allotted to women: Mai Seva of Goindwal and Bibi Bhago of Kashmir. 6. Guru Amar Das Ji established another organization called the Pihrhi (pIVHI) system. Only the ladies were assigned Pirhis, whose objective was to spread Naam among women. Bibi Bhani, Bibi Dani, and Bibi Pal were some of the most revered women assigned with Pihrhis.
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Sahib uplifted the honor and rights of women at a time when women were denied the basic human rights.
so ikau mMdw AwKIAY ijqu jMmih rwjwn ]
(sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, 473) So why call her bad? From her, kings are born.
QUESTIONS:
Fill in the blanks with the correct words: Syapa rights burn honor veiling
1. Guru Amar Das Ji forbade the practice of “Parda,” the ______of women. 2. Guru Sahib also prohibited ______, the beating of thighs and crying by women on the death of a relative. 3. Guru Amar Das Ji forbade the practice of “Sati” in which widows ______themselves alive on the funeral pyres of their husbands. 4. Guru Sahib uplifted the ______and ______of women at the time when women were denied the basic human rights
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Lesson 11 Date:______
Some Notable Sikhs of Guru Amar Das Ji
Bhai Paro Jhulka Ji (also called Parma Hans) belonged to the village Dalla (f`lw), which is now in the Kapurthala district of Punjab. He received religious instructions and emancipation from Guru Sahib. Allayar, a rich Muslim horse-dealer of Delhi, brought five hundred horses from Arabia and arrived at Beas. He could not continue his journey because the Beas River was flooded and the boatmen refused to take the risk of crossing the swollen river. While Allayar was waiting on the banks of the river, he saw Bhai Paro Jhulka Ji plunge his horse into the foaming river and reach the opposite shore in safety. Allayar met Bhai Paro Ji on his return and complimented his daring feat of crossing the river. Bhai Paro Ji told him that it was through the blessings of Guru Amar Das Ji that he could cross the flooded river. He further informed Allayar about Guru's glory, and Allayar became anxious to meet Guru Sahib. The next morning they both went to see Guru Sahib. Allayar (“Alla” means God, and “yar” means friend) was delighted to see Guru Sahib. Upon hearing Allayar‟s name Guru Sahib said, "It is difficult to become a friend (yar) of God (Alla).” Allayar humbly requested Guru Sahib to bless him so that he could become “yar of Alla.” Pleased with Allayar‟s humility, Guru Sahib blessed him with Naam and he became Guru Sahib‟s disciple. Allayar was also blessed with one of the 22 Manjis that were set up by Guru Amar Das Ji to spread the fragrance of Naam. There are numerous such stories of the Sikhs who were blessed by Guru Sahib.
Key Gurmat Message: Those with faith are blessed by the Guru and bring blessings to their companions. Awip jphu Avrw nwmu jpwvhu ] (sRI gurU gRMQ swihb jI, 289)
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Bhai Sawan Mal Ji, the son of Guru Amar Das Ji's brother, was a devoutSikh. One day, Guru Sahib handed him a handkerchief and asked him to go to Haripur in the Kangra hills, to arrange for the supply of lumber for the construction of buildings in Goindwal Sahib. The ruler of Kangra, Raja Hari Chand, was a devotee of Bairagi Saints, a sect of Hindu Saints. He had ordered all his people not to eat or cook anything on ekadshi, the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight. If smoke was seen emerging from any of the kitchens on this day, the owners of the house were taken to the king and brutally punished. Bhai Sawan Mal Ji ignored the royal ordinance and cooked his food. When the smoke emerged from his kitchen, he was imprisoned for the offence of cooking on ekadshi and presented before Raja Hari Chand. Bhai Sawan Mal Ji politely explained to the Raja that he was following his Guru‟s command not to observe fasting. The arrogant Raja Hari Chand ordered that Bhai Sawan Mal Ji‟s legs be cut off for disobeying his orders. The king returned to his chamber after announcing the punishment and noticed that his only son had gotten critically ill. An acute pain had risen in his son‟s stomach. None of the royal vaids (doctors) could cure him as he became unconscious and was dying. Raja Hari Chand understood that God was punishing him for troubling one of his beloved devotees. The king immediately ran to the cells barefoot and pleaded Sawan Mal to pardon him for his cruel behavior. He begged him to grant life back to his son. Bhai Sawan Mal Ji was moved by the Raja‟s plea and he forgave the king. To help cure the king‟s son, he placed a handkerchief on the prince's face and did Ardaas remembering Guru Amar Das Ji. The prince recovered after the Ardaas. The Raja and the queen fell at Bhai Sawan Mal's feet to thank him for the miraculous saving. Bhai Sawan Mal Ji humbly explained that all he did was Ardaas and that the real savior is Guru Amar Das Ji. From that day, the king and the queen became devout followers of Guru Sahib. They visited Goindwal Sahib and presented precious gifts at Guru Sahib's feet. Raja Hari Chand also arranged lumber to be sent via the Beas River for the construction at Goindwal Sahib. Bhai Sawan Mal was put in charge of a Manji to spread the fragrance of Naam in the Kangra hills area.
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Key Gurmat Message: 1. Guru Sahib takes care of those who have full faith in Him. 2. Guru Sahib is very kind and forgives those who realize their mistakes and take corrective action.
Bhai Gangu Shah Ji, a merchant of Lahore, suffered losses in business and came to Goindwal Sahib to seek the Guru's blessing. Guru Sahib said to him: "Go to Delhi and start your business. Remember God and put one tenth of your income (Daswand, dsvMD) into Guru Nanak‟s account. Use money from Guru Nanak‟s account to help the needy and you will be wealthy.” With Guru Sahib‟s blessings, Gangu Shah started his business in Delhi and in a couple of years became a rich merchant. At Goindwal Sahib, a needy Brahmin sought financial aid from Guru Amar Das Ji for his daughter's marriage. Guru Sahib gave him a letter for Gangu Shah, asking him to help the Brahmin using Guru Nanak‟s account. Wealth had made Gangu Shah arrogant and greedy, however. He thought that if he helped the Brahmin, Guru Sahib might send more men to him for help. So he told the Brahmin that he cannot give him anything, as his registers show no account with the name of Guru Nanak. The Brahmin returned disappointed to Goindwal Sahib. Guru Sahib told the congregation to collect funds and He himself contributed some amount towards the marriage expenses of the Brahmin's daughter. After some time, Bhai Gangu Shah Ji suffered losses in business, and returned to Goindwal Sahib empty-handed. He dared not show his face to Guru Amar Das Ji. For repentance, he cleaned utensils, mopped floors in the Langar, and dedicated all his time to Seva and Simran. One day, Guru Sahib called and blessed him. He was put in charge of the Manji at Lahore to spread Guru‟s message for the rest of his life.
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Lesson 12 Date:______
Sri Guru Ram Das Ji
Date of Parkash: September 24, 1534(k`qk vdI 2, 25 A`sU sMmq 1591) Place of Parkash: Chuna Mandi, Lahore (Pakistan) Father: Sri Haridas Ji Mother: Mata Daya Kaur Ji Mahal (Wife): Bibi Bhani Ji Sons: Baba Prithi Chand Ji, Baba Maha Dev Ji, Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji Gurgaddi: August 30, 1574(31 BwdoN sMmq 1631) Joti Jot: September 1, 1581(2 A`sU sMmq 1638)
Legend for calendar dates: English Calendar; Lunar Calendar; Bikrami Calendar
Early Life of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji
(Guru) Ram Das Ji‟s Parkash took place at Chuna Mandi, Lahore lwhOr (in Pakistan), on September 24, 1534. He was the son of Mata Daya Kaur Ji and Baba Hari Das Ji Sodhi. Being the first-born child of his parents, he was also called Jetha Ji, meaning the eldest. (Guru) Ram Das Ji‟s parents died when he was just 7 years old. His maternal grandmother took Him to her native village Basarkay, Punjab. There He spent the next five years earning His living by selling boiled grains. Imagine yourself at the age of 7. Think how hard life would be if you had to earn a living at such a young age? You miss your parents, you are living with your grandmother, and you have to actually work hard every day in order to survive. But (Guru) Ram Das Ji didn‟t feel angry; instead, He was a very kind hearted and sweet natured child. He was so kind that sometimes He would give boiled grains to the hungry for free.
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Once Guru Amar Das Ji came to village Basarkay to offer support to the grandmother of (Guru) Ram Das Ji at the death of her son-in-law. There, Amar Das Ji developed deep affection with (Guru) Ram Das Ji. (Guru) Ram Das Ji used to hear about God's glories and the Guru's greatness from the Sikh pilgrims going to Goindwal Sahib. (Guru) Ram Das Ji moved to Goindwal Sahib to join in the Seva, and to earn his living, He continued to sell boiled grains. After selling the grains, he made it his daily routine to help in the construction of Goindwal Sahib. (Guru) Ram Das Ji would bring water for the Langar. Whenever he had spare time, he would wash dishes, at the same time he would listen to and recite Gurbani.
Key Gurmat Message: Even though (Guru) Ram Das Ji had to work hard as a child, he was very kind and helpful to the poor and needy people.
Marriage with Bibi Bhani Ji
Guru Amar Das Ji‟s younger daughter, Bibi Bhani Ji was a devout Gursikh who recited Gurbani all the time, even while playing with her girl companions. She dressed simply, and cherished the Divine Name. She was content within herself and cared not for the worldly wealth. One day Bibi Bhani Ji‟s mother conversed with Guru Amar Das Ji about the marriage of their daughter. She said, "Bhani is of marriageable age, and we should find a suitable partner for her." Guru Amar Das Ji asked, "To whom shall we give her hand in marriage?" The mother, pointing towards (Guru) Ram Das Ji said, "To a young man like him." Guru Amar Das Ji remarked, "He is a unique, for God had made none other like him." In this way, (Guru) Ram Das Ji was chosen as the bridegroom for Bibi Bhani Ji. (Guru) Ram Das Ji was Level 4 Page 38 gurmiq isiKAw married to Bibi Bhani Ji in 1553. (Guru) Ram Das Ji and Bibi Bhani Ji were humble at heart and deeply devoted to the Guru. After his marriage, (Guru) Ram Das Ji with his noble wife visited his deceased parents' home, as was the custom. However, he could not remain there for long; as separation from Guru Sahib was unbearable to him. So he returned to Goindwal Sahib and dedicated the rest of his life to the service of Guru Sahib. (Guru) Ram Das Ji and Bibi Bhani Ji were blessed with three sons, Baba Prithi Chand Ji, Baba Maha Dev Ji, and (Guru) Arjan Dev Ji. Guru Amar Das Ji was very impressed by (Guru) Ram Das Ji and blessed him with Naam.
Key Gurmat Message: Those who heed Guru Sahib‟s word and lovingly serve the poor are blessed by Guru Sahib‟s gracious glance. They who surrender themselves to the Guru, realize the Truth, and
forever remain in peace.
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Lesson 13 Date:______
Seva
Guru Amar Das Ji started the construction of Baoli, a step-well at Goindwal Sahib. On hearing the construction of the step-well, the devotees started pouring in to take part in the Seva (service). (Guru) Ram Das Ji spent long hours every day performing Seva including carrying a basket of sand on his head, digging dirt, or any task that needed to be done. One day, some pilgrims including relatives of (Guru) Ram Das Ji‟s ancestral home in Lahore were going for a holy dip to Haridwar, stopped at Goindwal Sahib. They were furious to see (Guru) Ram Das Ji, the son of a high caste Khatri, carrying a basket of sand on his head and working along with people of low castes like an ordinary laborer in his in-law's house. They said to Guru Amar Das Ji very angrily, "You are making our son work like a laborer with low caste people. This does not speak highly of you." Hearing his relatives talk like this, (Guru) Ram Das Ji went to Guru Sahib and pleaded, "Please forgive them. They are ignorant yet innocent. They have no knowledge that Seva is above caste, creed, and relationships."
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Sahib‟s Seva is more important than even the highest
person in this world.
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Guru Ram Das Ji becomes the Guru: Platform of Humility
Guru Amar Das Ji wanted to select his successor just like the first two Guru Sahibs. Guru Amar Das Ji asked both of his sons-in- law, Bhai Rama Ji and (Guru) Ram Das Ji to make him two platforms beside the Baoli at Goindwal. When they completed their platforms, the Guru went to inspect them but disapproved of them. He asked that the platforms be built again. In obedience to his command, new platforms were built the next day but were also disapproved and ordered to be dismantled. Every day Guru Sahib would come to inspect the platforms, disapprove and ask to rebuild. This happened seven times! Rama Ji refused to build it again saying that the Guru had grown old and that there was nothing wrong with his platform. (Guru) Ram Das Ji on the other hand obeyed, asked Guru Sahib for his forgiveness that he wasn‟t building the platforms to Guru Sahib‟s expectation. He started building the platform again. Guru Sahib smiled and embraced him affectionately saying, "You have passed the supreme test! Guru Jot of Guru Nanak Dev Ji needed a new home, which I have found in you.” Guru Amar Das Ji asked Baba Budha Ji to anoint Guru Ram Das Ji as the fourth Guru. Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s “Guru Jot” that Guru Amar Das Ji got from Guru Angad Dev Ji, now resided in Guru Ram Das Ji. Guru Amar Das Ji's younger son Baba Mohri Ji accepted the Guru's verdict with good grace, but His elder son Baba Mohan Ji resented his father‟s decision. He asserted his claim to the Gurgaddi. Guru Amar Das Ji asked Guru Ram Das Ji to move to „Guru Ka Chakk‟ along with his family. Guru Amar Das Ji decided to conclude His earthly abode. Guru Sahib blessed the sangat and instructed them not to weep or wail after His leave. Guru Amar Das Ji immersed in Eternal Light on September 1, 1574 at the age of 95. Guru Ram Das Ji continued the tradition of kirtan, langar, and Level 4 Page 41 gurmiq isiKAw seva (selfless service). In His discourses to the devotees, Guru Ram Das Ji always emphasized the value of seva and simran (meditation) as the primary duty of every Sikh. Guru Sahib encouraged Sikhs to earn their living by honest means, meditate on Naam, and share their material and spiritual wealth with others. This would bring happiness to this world and freedom from the painful cycle of births and deaths. Guru Amar Das Ji had already setup 22 sangat centers. To further propagate Sikhism, Guru Ram Das Ji sent prominent Sikhs like Bhai Handal Ji and Bhai Gurdas Ji to establish contact with the Sikhs outside of Punjab.
Key Gurmat Message: (Guru) Ram Das Ji always followed Guru Amar Das Ji‟s
directions without questions. This is how we should do Seva.
QUESTIONS:
Fill in the blanks using the following words: head 95 Seva earn simran long hours September 1, 1574 meditate dirt Seva share
1.(Guru) Ram Das Ji spent ______every day performing ______including carrying a basket of sand on his______, digging______, or any task that needed to be done. 2.Guru Amar Das Ji immersed in Eternal Light on ______at the age of ____. 3.Guru Ram Das Ji always emphasized the value of ______and ______(meditation) as the primary duty of every Sikh. 4.Guru Sahib encouraged Sikhs to ______their living by honest means, ______on Naam, and ______their material and spiritual wealth with others.
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Lesson 14 Date:______
Respect from Emperor Akbar
After the construction of the Baoli, the step-well, in 1559, the core Sikhi principles of equality and treating everyone with respect received a further boost. Now, the devotees not only sat in Pangat for their meals, they also started bathing at a common place, thus further wiping out the differences of caste and creed from their minds. Sikhs, after visiting Goindwal Sahib, started similar practice at their villages. With this, the false walls in the society based on the caste system began to fall. Brahmins and high caste people, however, could not bear low caste people acting as Baoli Sahib their equals. In October 1566 AD, Emperor Akbar stayed for some time at Lahore. Taking advantage of his presence, the Brahmins and high caste people drafted a memorandum against Guru Amar Das Ji and presented it to Emperor Akbar. Having read the charge sheet, Emperor Akbar sent a message to Guru Amar Das Ji to come to Lahore and reply to those complaints. Guru Amar Das Ji sent (Guru) Ram Das Ji as His representative to Emperor Akbar to reply to those charg es. In the court at Lahore, (Guru) Ram Das Ji began replying to the charges in the complaint one by one. The first complaint was, "Why do the Sikhs not read Vedas or recite the 'Gayatri' and instead only recite Gurbani (Guru's word)?" (Guru) Ram Das Ji said, "The verses in Vedas prohibit Shudras (untouchables) from reciting the Gayatri but the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are accessible to people of all castes and faiths. Moreover, the Vedas are written in Sanskrit, which is beyond the comprehension of common men. Gurbani is easy to understand. Having understood it, life is molded in accordance with Guru Sahib‟s teachings. Gurbani makes it easy to unite with Waheguru (God) while living in this world. " The second question was "Sikhs are very egoistic. They do not go Level 4 Page 43 gurmiq isiKAw on pilgrimages to holy places and bathe, which allows previous sins to be destroyed and allow entrance into heaven in the next world." (Guru) Ram Das Ji replied, "Sangat (Congregation) is the holy place for Sikhs. They get the spiritual wisdom from Gurbani. Sikhs implement Gurbani in their daily life, which saves them from committing sins. Sikhs have no aspirations for the pleasures of heaven. Sikhs rise above this.” The third question was "Why do not Sikhs practice the centuries old caste system?" (Guru) Ram Das Ji replied, "Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s message is that all humans deserve equal respect and dignity. Caste system developed by Manu Brahmin oppresses and mistreats women and lower caste people. It is not for the welfare of the society." The fourth question was "Why do Sikhs not worship idols?" (Guru) Ram Das Ji replied, "Sikhs believe in only one God that is ever alive and is beyond birth, death or aging. He is present everywhere all the time. Idols decay, get destroyed and have no life." The last question was, "If the Sikhs believe in only one God, then why do they bow (Matha Tek) to their Guru?" (Guru) Ram Das Ji replied, “The Sikhs bow to the „Guru Jot‟ inherent in the Guru that dispels the darkness from the mind of every Sikh and unites him/her with Waheguru." Emperor Akbar was convinced by the answers of (Guru) Ram Das Ji. Before leaving, (Guru) Ram Das Ji said to Akbar, "It would be a great relief if you relieved the imposition of Jazia tax on farmers and Pilgrimage Tax on the Hindus." Emperor Akbar could not believe that (Guru) Ram Das Ji was asking about the welfare of Hindu Brahmins who had complained about Guru Sahib. (Guru) Ram Das Ji replied that the house of Guru Nanak Dev Ji works for the welfare of all without caring for what someone gives in return. Emperor Akbar was so pleased that he not only removed the Jazia and Pilgrimage Taxes but also honored (Guru) Ram Das Ji with a robe of honor.
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Lesson 15 Date:______
Appearance of a Holy Spot
While returning to Goindwal Sahib after laying the foundation of Guru Ka Chakk (gurU kw c~k) in 1570 AD, Guru Amar Das Ji had told (Guru) Ram Das Ji that a great place of pilgrimage would appear at this place at the proper time. Due to the shifting of Guru Sahib's abode to Guru Ka Chakk, the devotees started coming to this place to seek Guru Sahib‟s blessings. The people of all trades started settling at this place and the name of the town changed to Chakk Ram Das (c~k rwmdws). In 1577 AD, a woman came to Guru Ram Das Ji accompanied by a man. After bowing to Guru Sahib, that woman said, "Respected Guru Ji! Please listen to all that happened to me. I shall accept the decision you will make." Saying this, the woman started her narration. "My name is Rajni. I am the youngest daughter of Duni Chand, a wealthy landlord of the village Patti. I have four elder sisters. One day our father asked, “Who provides for you to eat?” All the sisters except me replied, “Father, it is you.” I had heard that God provides for everyone. As such I said. “God provides food to everyone. And I believe God provides for my food too.” My father was very angry at my reply. He said, “I shall see how God provides for you.” When I grew older, he made me marry a leper and forced me to leave the house. I put my husband in a basket and while carrying him on my head, started making my living by begging in the villages. This morning, I placed the basket with my husband by the bank of a pond in the shade of a 'ber' tree and went to the village to beg for something to eat. When I returned, the
Level 4 Page 45 gurmiq isiKAw basket in which I had left my husband was empty, and this man was sitting on the bank of that pond under the shade of that tree. When I asked him about my husband, he replied, 'I am none other than your leper husband.'" On being asked by Guru Sahib, that man replied. "I am her husband. When Rajni left for the village, I observed that crows dove in the water of that pond, and when they emerged they became swans of a pure white color and flew away. I also crawled into that pond. By contact with the water in that pond my leprosy was cured except for the hand by which I was holding onto the branch of the ber tree. I told Rajni everything on her return but she does not believe me." Guru Sahib told that woman, "Rajni! He is your husband. This pond is the holy spot of which Guru Amar Das Ji had foretold. Due to your belief in God, you were blessed to visit this pond and your leper husband has been cured with the miraculous virtues of its holy water. Let your husband dip the hand affected with leprosy in the pool and you shall see the results." As he put his hand in the water, it was immediately cured. Rajni, filled with happiness, bowed at Guru Sahib‟s feet. Early next morning, Guru Sahib along with Baba Budha Ji and other Sikhs started an excavation of the pool. The 'ber' tree that still exists at this spot is called Dukh Bhanjani beri, or the destroyer of sorrow. By the construction of this pool of Amrit (nectar), Chakk Ram Das came to be called Amritsar Sahib.
Key Gurmat Message:
The Amrit Sarovar at Darbar Sahib, Amritsar has the powerful
ability to cure any illness.
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Limitless Humility
When Guru Nanak Dev Ji placed the Guru Jot in Guru Angad Dev Ji, his elder son, Baba Sri Chand Ji, felt that injustice had been done to him. Though he was against Guru Angad Dev Ji, he never declared himself a Guru. He had also heard the praises of Guru Amar Das Ji, but he did not meet Him. When Baba Sri Chand Ji heard praises of Guru Ram Das Ji from the people, he came to Amritsar for an audience with the Guru. When Guru Sahib came to know of the arrival of Baba Sri Chand Ji, He went to receive him on the way. With great respect, Guru Sahib took Baba Sri Chand Ji with Him and seated him in the congregation beside Him. Baba Sri Chand Ji saw the long beard of Guru Sahib and asked, "Why have you grown such a long beard?" Guru Sahib replied, "It is to wipe the dust of the feet of great men like you." With His beard in His hands, Guru Sahib tried to approach Baba Sri Chand Ji‟s feet. Baba Sri Chand Ji immediately bowed and stopped Guru Sahib from touching his feet and said, “It is this limitless humility and politeness, which has made you worthy of the Guru Jot. I had heard about your benevolence, generosity, and humility, but now I have seen it with my own eyes. With your devoted service you have not only achieved the Guru Jot but also won the hearts of mankind. Your praise can not be described in words.”
Key Gurmat Message: Guru Ram Das Ji remained very humble to all, even after he became Guru Himself.
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Lesson 16 Date:______
Guru Ram Das Ji Visits Lahore
The elegance and hustle and bustle of Amritsar increased day by day. The pilgrims from all over the country visited the city. Bhai Sihari Mal, a relative of Guru Sahib, along with other Sikhs from Lahore requested Guru Sahib to visit his birthplace. He told Guru Sahib that Sikhs of Lahore were eagerly waiting for him. Guru Sahib agreed and promised that he would reach Lahore within a month. One day Guru Sahib asked Sikhs to make arrangements for His visit to Lahore. Members of the family and some devout Sikhs also accompanied Him. When they reached near Lahore, all prominent Sikhs and other settlers of Lahore came outside of the city to welcome Guru Sahib. They were proud that Guru Sahib belonged to Lahore. They were discussing how an orphan child, because of his selfless service and complete surrender to the Will of the Guru, had become the True Emperor. Guru Ram Das Ji first visited his own house in Chuna Mandi. He stayed there for few days and converted his house into a DharamShala (Gurdwara Sahib). Guru Sahib stayed at Bhai Sihari Mal‟s house. Bhai Sihari Mal had a huge house. A large number of devotees paid their homage to Guru Sahib in Lahore. To manage the time more effectively, Guru Sahib fixed times for dIvwn-assembly. Every morning and evening, the Sangat recited kirtan followed by an address by Guru Sahib. The langar was served all day. Those relatives who had used inappropriate words to Guru Amar Das Ji at Goindwal Sahib also came to pay homage to Guru Sahib and asked for forgiveness. They confessed, "Since we have come from Goindwal Sahib, we are facing many problems. We are always in grief and pain." Guru Sahib advised them to contemplate the holy Name of God with full devotion, give up the pride of higher cast, and serve the Sangat and the true Guru. After staying in Lahore for a long time, Guru Sahib returned to Amritsar along with his family and other Sikhs.
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Glossary of Punjabi Words
Adi Granth (Awid gRMQ): Adi=beginning, first period; Granth= scripture, book, voluminous book; Adi Granth = original scripture. Guru Arjun Dev Ji compiled Adi Granth. Akal Purakh (Akwl purK): Immortal being. It means One Who is beyond the limits and influence of time. It is used as a name for God (Waheguru) Akhand Paath (AKMf pwT): The continuous/nonstop reading of entire Guru Granth Sahib Ji Amrit (AMimRq): Nectar, the drink of immortality; commonly refers to the sacred water used in the Sikh Initiation ceremony. Ang (AMg): Part of body; also refers to the pages of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Ardas (Ardws): Prayer; an act of making plea to Waheguru for our temporal and/or spiritual desires. Assu (A~sU): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of September – October) Ayi Hai (AweI hY): Has come Bala Pir (bwlw pIr): Bala=young child. Pir= a muslim saint (the muslims of Delhi called Guru Harkrishan Ji "Bala Pir" out of respect) Bana (bwxw): Khalsa uniform Bandi Chhorh (bMdI CoV): Bandi=prisoner, Chhorh: release, Bandi Chhorh=release of the prisoners Bandi Chhorh Diwas (bMdI CoV idvs): diwas=day; the anniversary day to celebrate the release of prisoners from Gwalior Fort by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (see 'Diwali') Bani (bwxI, gurbwxI, Dur kI bwxI): The word of Timeless, Formless Waheguru brought to us by Guru Sahibs. Baoli (bwaulI): A staircase leading to a well of water Bebe (byby): Elder sister, mother, or grandmother (most commonly used for Bebe Nanki Ji) Bedawa (bydwvw): Letter of disownment. Ber (byr): Ziziphus jujuba tree and its fruit Beri (byrI): Ziziphus jujuba tree Bhai (BweI): Literally means brother, a word used to address a honored Sikh Bhagti (BgqI): Meditation Bhadon (BwdoN): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of August – September) Bhora (Borw): Underground room/apartment Brahmgiani (bRhm-igAwnI): One who has realized the Supreme Almighty God Brahmin (bRwhmx): High class in Hindus Chandoa (cMdoAw): A canopy that adorns above Guru Granth Sahib Ji as a sign of respect
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Charnamrit (crnwimRq): Charn refers to the pious feet of Guru Sahib and amrit means nectar; Charnamrit is a ceremony in which Guru Sahib dipped His feet into water and gave this sacred water to His disciples. Chet: Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of March-April) Chola (colw): A traditional dress (long baggy shirt) worn by Sikhs. Chor (cor): Thief Chaur (cOr): The Chaur Sahib is used to respectfully wave over Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Damdama Sahib (dmdmw swihb): Damdama means resting place. Darbar (drbwr): The king‟s court, hall of audience Darbar Hall (drbwr hwl): The main hall in Gurduara Sahibs. Darbar Sahib (drbwr swihb): Darbar = the king‟s court; Sahib=used as respect Dargah ((drgwh): A court of law, mosque, a Muslim worship place Daroga (drogw): Police officer Darshan (drSn): To see or meet Darshani Deori (drSnI ifauVI): The entrance door to Gurduara Sahib Daswandh (dsvMD): The giving of one-tenth of one‟s income in charity. Deewan/Diwan (dIvwn): Congregation, royal court Devi (dyvI): a Hindu goddess Dhadi (FwfI): A minstrel; traditional singer who sings the praise of the Sikh Guru and recounts the heroic deeds of the Sikhs. Dhal (Fwl): Shield to protect yourself during attack Dharamsala (Drmswlw): An old name for Gurdwara Sahibs Diwali (dIvwlI): Celebrated by Sikhs as the anniversary day of the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, from the Gwalior fort. (Also known as Bandi-Chor Divas) Dukh Bhanjani Beri (duK BMjnI byrI): Dukh = pain, sorrow; Bhanjani = destroyer of sorrow; Dukh Bhanjani Beri is located at the banks of Amrit Sarovar, Darbar Sahib, Amritsar. Fakir (PkIr): Muslim Sadhu (saint)
Fateh (Pqih): Literally means victory and refers to Sikh greeting vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw vwihgurU jI kI Pqih Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Gatka (gqkw): Sikh martial arts introduced by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Geeta (gIqw): Holy book for Hindus Ghar (Gr): House Golak (golk): An area where offerings to the Guru are placed Granthi (gRMQI): A trained reader of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji who is the functionary incharge of a Gurdwara. Gur Mantar (gurmMqr): “Waheguru” is the Gur Mantar that is given at the Amrit Sanchar ceremony by the five chosen Amritdhari Sikhs in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
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Gurbaani/Gurbani (gurbwxI, bwxI, Dur kI bwxI): The word of Timeless, Formless Waheguru brought to us by Guru Sahibs. Gurdwara (gurduAwrw): Sikh place of worship; Guru's abode Gurgaddi/Gurugaddi (gurg~dI): Passing on the Guruship; a ceremony in which the Guru Jot is transferred into the next Guru Gurh (guV): jaggery (raw brown sugar, made from sugar cane) Gurmat (gurmiq): general term for Sikh core beliefs Gurmukhi (gurmuKI): The script in which Punjabi language is written. This is the script used in the Sikh scriptures. It was propagated by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Angad Dev Ji Gurpurab (gurpurb): a holy celebration in connection with Guru Sahib Guru Jot (gurU joiq): divine light (part of Waheguru) that is transferred from one Guru to the next and now resides in Guru Granth Sahib Ji Haji (hwjI): a pilgrim going to Mecca Harh (hwV): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of June – July) Harmandir (hrmMidr): A Gurdwara Sahib at Amritsar, Punjab that is of historical, spiritual, and emotional significance to Sikhs Haumai (hwaumY): ego; one of the five evils Hukam (hukm): command or order given by Guru Sahib, also refers to the Divine Will of God. Jaap (jwp): holy chant, recitation, repetition of passages from Holy Scriptures or God‟s name Jaikara (jYkwrw): Sikh victory slogan; boly so inhwl ] siq sRI Akwl ] Jand (jMf): a tree, prosopis spicigera tree Janeu (jnyaU): a sacred thread worn by Hindus Japuji (jpujI swihb): the first Bani of the five nitnem baanis; composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Jathedar (jQyydwr): A leader of Sikh volunteers; also refers to the appointed leader of one of the five Sikh Takhats.
Jeth (jyT): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of May – June)
Ji (jI): a term added to the end of a name to show respect Jot (joiq): flame of light; also see “Guru Jot” above Joti Jot Diwas (joqI joiq idvs): the day Guru Sahib physically left this earth. Kakar (kkwr): five symbols of purity and courage Kalma (klmW): Muslim blessing Kamarkassa (kmrk`sw): Waistband Karah Parshad (kVwh pRswid): sacred food that is distributed to the Sangat at the end of the Diwan Kara (kVw): an iron bangle Kattak (k~qk): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of October – November) Kangha (kMGw): a wooden comb
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Katha (kQw): an explanation of Gurmukhi and Sikh History Kaur (kOr): Princess, Last name of Sikh woman
Kirpan (ikrpwn): sword; represents the Sikh commitment to Truth and Protection of the innocent
Kachehra (kiChrw): pair of shorts Kesh (kys): uncut hair Khalsa (Kwlsw): Literally means "Pure". Khalsa is the name Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave to the Sikhs after having administered Khande de Pahul (Amrit) for the first time at Vaisakhi day, March 29, 1699.
Khande–de-pahul (KMfy dI pwhul): name given to Sikh Baptism ceremony; initiation ceremony into the Khalsa "brotherhood"
Kikar (ik~kr): Acacia tree Kirat Karo (ikrq kro): Kirt karo means to work honestly, not to cheat and always be truthful. To do what is right and truthful no matter what. Kirtan (kIrqn): the singing of hymns/Gurbani Koran (kurwn): Holy book for Muslims Kotwal (koqvwl): Police chief Kotwali (koqvwlI): Police station Laina (lYx): to take Langar (lMgr): holy food prepared by the sangat Magh (mwG): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of January – February) Maghar (m~Gr): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of November – December) Mahal (mihl): wife of Guru Sahib Mahant (mhMq): A caretaker of Gurdwara during the war times of Khalsa Panth. But due to some extremely immoral mahants, Khalsa Panth took over the management of Gurudwara Sahib during British Rule and ended mahant activities. Mai (mweI): Mother, A respectful term used to address respectful woman Masand (msMd): The preacher of Sikhism during the time of Guru Amar das Ji to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, but many masands got indulged in immoral activities. Guru Gobind Singh Ji discouraged and ended the masands‟ activities. Mata (mwqw): Mother, A respectful term used to address respectful woman Matha tek(m~Qw tyk): bowing down to Guru Sahib by placing the forehead on the ground and palms on the floor Maulvi (mOlvI): Someone who is an expert in Islamic law Miri (mIrI): Temporal powers Misl (imsl): A fighting clan Mithha Bolna (im~Tw bolxw): a sweet and melodious voice; speaking positively of others
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Mool mantar (mUl mMqr): given to Sikhs at the time of Amrit Sanchar; mool=root, mantar=chant; therefore, this mantar encompasses the Sikh philosophy Mughal (mugl): A south Asian tribe, India was ruled by Mugal emperor for very long time Naam Japo (nwm jpo): Remember Waheguru by reciting Naam. Remember Him by saying His name, Waheguru, with every breath and every step you take. Waheguru is always with you. Naam (nwm): holy word Nagni (nwgxI): a special spear used by Bhai Bachittar Singh to wound the drunken elephant Nawab (nvwb): baron Nithawan (inQwvW): abodeless, shelterless, homeless Paisa (pYsw): One hundrederth part of Indian Rupees Palki (pwlkI): palanquin (a seat carried on poles) Pangat (pMgq): sitting together on the floor to eat meals (langar) Panj Piarey (pMj ipAwry): the five beloved Sikhs that gave their heads at the call of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Panja (pMjw): hand Parkarma (pRkrmw): the act of going around Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Parkash (pRkwS): light; see „Parkash Diwas‟ Parkash Diwas (pRkwS idvs): a respectful term to describe Guru Sahib‟s birthday Panth Parkash (pMQ pRkwS): A renowoned book on Sikh History by Sardar Rattan Singh Bhangu Parsad (pRswd): means blessing; often refers to Karah Parshad (see above) Parshada/Prashade(pRSwdy/pRSwdw): roti; tortilla made of flour Paurees (pwauVI): steps; also refers to stanzas in Gurbani Phagun (P~gux): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (months of February – March) Pir (pIr): spiritual guide, Muslim saint Piri (pIrI): spiritual power Pirri (pIVI): Wooden seating which has lower legs and no back, organization where women were chose to spread the message of God Poh (poh): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (covers months of December – January) Pothi Sahib (poQI swihb): religious book Pothis (poQI): see „Pothi Sahib‟ Qazi (kwzI): judge of Muslim court Rabab (rbwb): string instrument (Guru Nanak Dev Ji used to do kirtan while Bhai Mardana Ji played the rabab) Rabab Chher (rbwb CyV): Touch the strings of Rabab (Guru Sahib asks Bhai Mardana Ji to play Rabab) Rababi (rbwbI): Rabab player Raja (rwjw): King Rani (rwxI): Queen
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Ranjit Nagara (rxjIq ngwrw): a big war drum of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Reetha (rITw): soap-nuts that are used to make shampoo and detergent Roti (rotI): tortilla made of flour Rumalaas (rumwlw): clothes of Guru Granth Sahib Ji Rupees (rupeIey): Indian currency (currently in 2009, 45 rupees=1 dollar) Sabad Kirtan (sbd kIrqn): Singing hymns from Guru Granth Sahib Ji
Sabad (Sbd): A sacred Sikh hymn from Guru Granth Sahib Ji
Sacha Sauda (s~cw sOdw): Ture-Trade. Sadhu (swDU): A religious ascetic or holy person Sahib (swihb): A respectful term used to address Guru Sahibs and other people Sakhi (swKI): Account of the historical events in Sikh History. Salok (slok): The verse in Bani Sambat (sMmq): Indian calendar year Sangat (sMgq): Congregation; people who are worshipping; worshippers Saranda (srMdw, isrMdw): Musical string instrument that was first used by Guru Arjun Dev Ji Sawan (swvx): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Covers months of July – August) Sehaj (shj): A blissful stage of calmness Siropa (isropw): An honorary cloth given to a person in honor of performing a good deed/act Sarbans Dani (srbMs dwnI): who sacrificed all of his possessions and worldly joys for other, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Sarovar (srovr): Holy pool of water Sat-Bachan (s~q-bcn): literally means, ”True is your word and I obey” – Saying satbachan means you will do what is asked of you. Satguru (sqgurU): True Guru Sehaj Path (sihj pwT): The entire reading of Guru Granth Sahib Ji at the readers‟ own pace. Seva (syvw): Self-less service that you do to benefit others without expecting anything in return Shaheedan De Sirtaj (ShIdW dy isrqwj): The one who led martyrdom. This title is used for Guru Arjun Dev Ji as He was the first martyr. Shaheed (ShId): Martyr- the one who accepts death with courage as a witness to his faith. Shaheedi (ShIdI): Martyrdom- Facing death as supreme witness to the truth of faith Shakti (SkqI): Temporal power Simran (ismrn): Remebering Waheguru and meditating on His Naam Singh (isMG): Lion, Last name of Sikh man
Sukh-Aasan (su~K-Awsn): A short ceremony performed when the Guru Granth Sahib is formally taken to His room at the end of day.
Taabiya (qwibAw): In presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji specifically being in reading position
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Takhat (qKq): An eternal throne representing Authority. Tayra (qyrw): Adressing to Waheguru that “it belongs to you; all is yours Lord” Tibbi (it~bI): Mound Tilak (iqlk): Ceremonial symbol Udaasis (audwsI): Journeys of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Vaisakh ( vYswK): Lunar Punjabi calendar month ( Covers months of April - May) Vaisakhi (ivswKI): Vaisakhi (or Baisakhi) - Celebrated as the founding day of Khalsa in 1699 Vand ke Chakko (vMf ky Cko): Sharing with the needy. This is one of the 3 Golden rules of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Waheguru (vwihgurU): “The wonderful Lord"; It is the Gurmantar given to Sikhs by Guru Sahib, meant to be recited while meditating. Zafarnama (zPrnwmw): the Book of Victory- Word is used to describe the letter Guru Gobind Singh Ji wrote to Emperor Aurangzeb
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