Gobind Sarvar 2Nd Annual Sikh History Competition Ages 10- Package A

Gobind Sarvar 2nd Annual Sikh History Competition Ages 10- Package A

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

Email: [email protected] | Phone: 604-825-9629 | Web: www.GobindSarvar.com

Age: Under 10

This package has been developed with the generous support of sikschool.com and produced by Gobind Sarvar with the authorization of the publisher. Gobind Sarvar does not hold any copyrights for the below mentioned curriculum. All rights reserved by publisher (Sikhschool.com). If you have any questions please email [email protected] or contact the publisher directly at [email protected].

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])

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 Gur Mantar and Mool Mantar

The Gur Mantar: vwihgurU Waheguru

Waheguru: Literally vwih means wonderful, gu means darkness, rU means light. It is the name for the Almighty God. Guru Sahib gave this as Gur Mantar to the Sikhs.

Package A Page 4 gurmiq isiKAw Mool Mantar

Do we really know our Mool Mantar? Do we know what Guru Nanak Dev Ji told us in Mool Mantar? Let’s figure out what it means to us!

Let’s see what are the most common fears : Fear of someone stronger: For example mouse is afraid of cat, cat is afraid of dog, dog is afraid of lion, and so on.

Package A Page 5 gurmiq isiKAw Fear of something that can harm you: Sometimes we may be afraid of something weak like insects or spiders that can bite, sting, or harm us. Fear of the unknown: Someone may be afraid of dark, because you cannot see what is hiding in the dark. Fear is always of something other than oneself. Since Waheguru lives in everything, Waheguru has no fear. Waheguru is NirBhau. inrvYru - Nirvair “inr -Nir” means without; “vYru - vair” means hate or enmity. Therefore, Nirvair means without hate. Waheguru does not hate anyone. Waheguru is all-loving. Waheguru lives in all of us. We are all His parts. How can He hate anyone or harm anyone? Waheguru made everybody and everything. Waheguru is not afraid of anything and Waheguru does not hate anybody. He is all-loving. So let us remember what we have learned so far! Waheguru is  One god  He exists forever  He creates everything and is present everywhere  He is not afraid of anyone  He doesn't hate anyone That means He is AMAZING !! The meaning of Waheguru…"The Amazing Lord that takes us from darkness to light.

Akwl mUriq - Akaal Moorat "Akwl - Akaal” means timeless; "mUriq - Moorat” means form or existence. Waheguru’s existence is timeless. Or Waheguru is everlasting.

AjUnI - Ajooni “A” means not; “jUn”- one unique existence. (For example, cat is one “Joon”, dog is another “Joon”, and human is also a “Joon”). By definition, Ajooni is someone who is beyond Birth and Death. Guru Sahib says Waheguru is Ajooni. That means Waheguru is never born and He never dies.

Do you know that all living things we see around us were born one day and will die one day? A puppy grows up becomes a dog, and the old dog then dies.

Package A Page 6 gurmiq isiKAw A little baby cub becomes a lion (like Simba from The Lion King movie!), but then one day he will die. A little human baby grows up to be young, then old, and finally dies. You plant a seed, it becomes a big tree, but then it will get old and one day it will die too. But do you know that Waheguru is never born and He never dies? Waheguru is always there, so we say  Waheguru is timeless  Waheguru is endless  Waheguru is beyond time  Waheguru will never go away  Wahguru is Ajooni sYBM – - Saibhang “sY - Sai” means self, “BM - bhang” means illuminated. Saibhang means Waheguru is self-illuminated or self- existent.

Nothing that we see can create itself. For example, a seed is sowed in the ground. With the help of water and air, it grows into a tree over time. Similarly, Engineers make computer parts and put them together to make a computer. Everything that we see was created by someone. But did you know that No one created Waheguru? He is self created! Our Waheguru is Saibhang, which means no one created Him; He is self-existent. gur pRswid - Gur Prasad “gur - Gur” means Guru; “pRswid - Prasad” means blessing. Gur Prasad means Waheguru is realized with the blessings of the Guru. We should follow Guru Sahib’s teachings and do things that please Him. And the only way to get close to Waheguru, become His dear one, His friend is by "GurPrasad," by His grace. jpu - Jap “jpu – Jap” means chant and meditate. Guru Nanak Dev Ji says we can get Guru Sahib’s grace by doing "Jap." Jap means chant or speak. But do you know, just speaking doesn't work either. If we say

Package A Page 7 gurmiq isiKAw "Waheguru," but we keep thinking about Oreo cookies and milk - that doesn't work! We should speak and focus on what we are speaking. That's the easy way of saying "chant and meditate."

Awid scu jugwid scu ] Aad Sach, Jugaad Sach hY BI scu nwnk hosI BI scu ]1] Hai bhi Sach, Nanak hosi bhi Sach Waheguru is:  Aad sach – He was there before anything was created  Jugaad sach- He was there after creation  Hai bhi Sach –He is here today, he is here now  Nanak hosi bhi sach – And he will be here forever and ever and ever!

gurduAwrw swihb dy AsUl Gurdwara Sahib Etiquette

These are some rules and regulations we should follow when we come to the Gurdwara Sahib.

Before you enter the Gurdwara Sahib main hall:  Remove your shoes and socks  Wash your hands and feet  Cover your head

As you enter the Gurdwara Sahib main hall:  Walk slowly to Guru Granth Sahib Ji.  Matha tek with respect by touching your forehead and both palms on the ground/ carpet (stay like that for a few seconds).

Package A Page 8 gurmiq isiKAw  If you have an offering to make (such as money), please place it respectfully on the golak (it should not be thrown towards or on the golak).  Sit quietly in the Darbar Hall and listen to Kirtan and Katha. ● Please sit cross-legged in the Gurdwara Sahib ● Never sit with your feet towards Guru Granth Sahib Ji  While sitting in the Darbar Hall, always face towards Guru Granth Sahib Ji and feel that Guru Sahib is looking at you.  Feel presence of Guru Sahib around you (gurU jI nMU hwzr nwzr smJo).  It is not acceptable to play any video games or attend to anything else in Guru Sahib‟s Darbar (Darbar Hall).  During Ardas you are expected to stand quietly with hands folded facing Guru Granth Sahib Ji. lMgr dy AsUl Langar Etiquette

Like Gurdwara, Langar (Free Kitchen) also has its own set of rules which everyone should follow when we go to the Langar Hall.

Before you enter the Langar Hall:

 Remove shoes and socks  Wash your hands  Cover your head

Inside the Langar Hall,

 Always sit in the Pangat (the Sangat in the Langar hall)  Do Jaap while langar is being served  Take only as much food as you can eat at that time.  Make sure you do not waste any food!

Package A Page 9 gurmiq isiKAw gurbwxI pVHn Aqy siqkwr dy AsUl Gurbani Etiquette

Handling a Gutka Pothi Sahib (gutkw jW poQI swihb sMBwlx dy AsUl)

Gutka is a small booklet, which contains selected Banis and Shabads from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and Sri Dasam Granth Ji.

 Make sure your hands are washed properly and your head is always covered while handling Gutka sahib  Keep your Gutka Sahib covered in a small, clean piece of cloth.  When not in use, keep your Gutka Sahib in a clean, dedicated spot with other Gutkas or Gurbani literature. Don‟t keep other things with it. (A high shelf would be a good choice.)  Do not write, or highlight anything in the Gutka Sahib. Keep a diary to make notes about the page numbers, or anything else you wish to remember.  Do not fold any pages of Gutka Sahib

Rules to Foll ow while doing Paath (pwT) with a Gutka Sahib:

 Take off your shoes and socks. (A clean pair of socks may be okay if you really need them).  Wash your hands and wipe them with a clean towel.  Make sure your head is covered.  Sit in a clean spot.  While doing path, be alert, don‟t let your mind wonder, and concentrate only on doing paath. Don‟t try to multi-task (eat or watch TV or do anything else while doing Paath).  If you have to cough or sneeze, please use your shoulder, don't cough or sneeze into the Gutka Sahib.  Most importantly, pray with your heart and soul. 

Package A Page 10 gurmiq isiKAw gurU Aqy vwihgurU Guru and Waheguru gurU - Guru

In Sikhi the word “gurU (Guru)" refers to the ten Guru Sahibs from Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and our present eternal Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

The Literal Meaning of “gurU-Guru": gu = darkness (of ignorance) rU = light (light for the removal of darkness, enlightenment from ignorance)  “gurU-Guru" provides light for the removal of darkness. Guru leads us away from the darkness of ignorance, towards the enlightenment of reality – a vision of God. vwihgurU - Waheguru

In Sikhi “vwihgurU Waheguru” is the name for the Almighty God. Guru Nanak Dev Ji gave “vwihgurU Waheguru” as Gur Mantar to the Sikhs.

 vwih = wonderful, an expression of awe and wonder  “vwihgurU Waheguru” - the name refers to the wonders of the Divine Light that removes spiritual darkness. It can also imply “Wonderful God whose Name eliminates spiritual darkness.”

is`K &qih - Sikh Fateh = Sikh Greeting

When Sikhs meet each other they greet with the Fateh: vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw ] vwihgurU jI kI Pqih ] Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa || Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh || The Khalsa (Pure One) belongs to Waheguru (God), The victory belongs to Waheguru.

Package A Page 11 gurmiq isiKAw It is the order of Guru Gobind Singh Ji that all Sikhs greet each other by saying “Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.”

is`K jYkwrw - Sikh Jaikara = Si kh Victory Slogan boly so inhwl ] siq sRI Akwl ] Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal! ieh isMGW dw jYkwrw hY jo ik Ardws qoN bwAd iv`c, jW jMgI mYdwnw iv`c gjwieAw jWdw hY [ This slogan has been the war cry of the Sikhs in the battlefield since Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s time. We also say the slogan after all the religious Diwans.  Bole = to speak (say)  So = that person is  Nihal = Blessed  Sat = Eternal Truth (Eternal means that which has been true since before time, is true now and will be true for ever).  Sri = Respectful term.  Akal = Immortal; Timeless; One Who is free from the life and death cycle of this world. It is another name for Waheguru or God.

Now if you put all the above words into one sentence, you get:

Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal "blessed is the one who says, “The Immortal Waheguru is truth”.

King Janak: How to Meditate

There was once a great wise monk and his disciple. One day, the wise man sent his disciple to the court of King Janak to learn how to meditate. The disciple did not want go but since his master had ordered him, he went. When he reached the court of the King, he saw the King living a very luxurious lifestyle. He was confused why his master, the great wise man, would send him to a King who was so engrossed in this temporary wealth and thought what could such a person could have to teach a monk like me. The disciple bowed to the king. King Janak noticed the disciples’ mental state and said to the disciple that if he wanted he could return the very next day and the disciple decided to stay one night.

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King Janak did a lot of seva of the monk and then took the monk to the bedroom for the monk to spend the night. The bedroom was very luxurious and comfortable. The monk got into bed and tried to sleep. Just then he saw a sword hanging from a thin thread above him. The slightest touch of the breeze and the sword could fall and injure him. So the monk spent the entire night in a state of fear and extreme alertness since he knew that if he stopped being watchful for even a moment he might lose his life.

The next morning King Janak asked the monk if he had a comfortable sleep. The monk was not happy and asked about the meaning of having him sleep under a hanging sword above him because he had not slept the whole night even though he was very tired from his long journey. King Janak smiled and replied that this was exactly the lesson on how to meditate that he had wanted the monk to learn. The monk had to be alert and aware the whole night. It was a matter of life and death to him. King Janak said that despite living in luxury and all else he remained aware of the sword hanging over his head. The sword was invisible, but it was very real. It was his own impending death. Since King Janak kept the awareness of death in his mind, he was able to stay detached from his luxurious lifestyle. He knew that it could end any moment; that in fact it would inevitable end one day. In this manner he lived in the palace and yet was a hermit.

Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji tell us that this is exactly the attitude to be brought when are learning how to meditate or to life itself. You can remain unaware if you think that you will live forever. But how can you be unaware when you know that life can end any moment. You will be constantly aware and on your guard.

Bgqu vfw rwjw jnku hY gurmuiK mwieAw ivic audwsI] bhagath vaddaa raajaa janak hai guramukh maaeiaa vich oudhaasee| King Janak was a great saint who amidst Maya remained indifferent to it. - Vaaran Bhai Gurdas Ji

Package A Page 13 gurmiq isiKAw Our 1st Guru Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Parkash 1469, Rai Bhoe Di Talwandi, Nankaana Sahib - which is now in Pakistan. Father Sri Kalyan Das Ji, We also often refer to him as Mehta Kalu Ji or Mehta Kalyan Das Ji. Mother Mata Tripta Ji Sister Bibi Naanki Ji Wife Mata Sulakhni Ji Children Baba Sri Chand Ji, Baba Lakhmi Das Ji Joyti Jot 1539, Kartarpur Sahib 3 Golden Rules

Guru Sahib gave us 3 golden rules that we all must remember and obey. 1) Kirat Karo- We should always work honestly. 2) Naam Japo – We should always remember Waheguru and do Naam Simran. 3) Vand Chakko- We should always share with others who need help.

Nature Serves Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, our first Guru Sahib was loved by everyone: humans, plants, and animals. How many of you know or have seen a snake? What do you know about snakes? Well, when we talk about Guru Sahib being loved by all living creatures, we see how this is true in the Sakhi below.When Guru Nanak Dev Ji was about 10 years old, his father sent him out to do some work in the fields.

Guru Sahib took the cattle to graze in the fields. After some time, Guru Sahib decided to rest under a tree and was absorbed in deep meditation. While Guru Nanak Dev Ji was resting, a snake started to slither towards Him. Rai Bular was amazed at what he saw! The snake, which was a cobra, opened its hood. And then guess what? The opened hood provided shade for Guru Sahib from the sun. Can you believe it? Isn’t that cool? This Sakhi tells us Guru Nanak Dev Ji was

Package A Page 14 gurmiq isiKAw loved by everyone…but don’t you go playing with any snakes now! Sacha Sauda

How many of you have ever traded a thing with some one for something else? Sometimes, you might trade snacks at school, or toys with your brothers and sisters or you trade in colors because you like something else better, right? Well, being good at trading was a big deal for Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s father and he wanted Guru Sahib to be a good trader.

One day, His dad sent Him to make a true trade and gave Him 20 rupees. Back then, that was a lot of money. On His way to the market, Guru Nanak Dev Ji saw a group of holy saints and realized they hadn’t eaten for days. Can you guess what Guru Sahib did?

If you guessed, He bought food for the h o l y s a i n t s with His twenty rupees then you’re right! Guru Sahib knew this was the best trade ever because He was able to feed people who needed food. Sure, His dad was upset with Him at first but then His sister, Bebe Nanaki Ji stood up for her brother and said it was the right thing to do because the best type of business and trading is when we feed the hungry, help the needy and receive Waheguru’s blessings.

Malik Bhago and Bhai Laalo Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji traveled all over to spread the message of Waheguru. You know, lots of people wanted Guru Sahib to come to their house including rich kings and people with huge houses. While Guru Nanak Dev Ji was in Emnabad, He stayed with a simple honest man named Bhai Lalo who worked hard for his living. In the same city, also lived a rich powerful man named Malik Bhago who invited Guru Sahib to come to his house. After many requests, Guru Sahib agreed to go to Malik Bhago’s house but didn’t eat any of the rich, fancy looking food given to him. Malik Bhago was not very happy and didn’t like the fact that Guru Sahib didn’t eat his food.

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Guru Sahib took the roti made by Bhai Lalo Ji and the bread from Malik Bhago and squeezed both. Blood came out of the bread of Malik Bhago while pure white milk came out of the roti of Bhai Lalo Ji.

Do you know why this happened? Bhai Lalo Ji worked hard for an honest living and made his food out of love. Malik Bhago was mean to poor people and did not pay them enough for their work. Guru Ji wants us to live honestly and help people in need. If we want Guru Sahib’s blessings, we need to make sure we live an honest life and we help people in need.

Bhai Mardana Ji and the Stone

One afternoon Bhai Mardana Ji and Guru Nanak Sahib JI were resting near the Ganges River at Patna. Bhai Mardana Ji was inspecting the stone they had picked up along the side of the road and were in deep thought about the many people who came to see and listen to the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji. Bhai Mardana Ji asked, “Guru Sahib Ji, you teach every person about remembering God so they can become free of the mind and worldly attachments in order to merge with God. But why do many of them who listen still seem to spend a lot of their time doing all the things you have told them to avoid so they can have a happier life and meet God. Why do they waste away their lives that way?”

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji smiled and said, “Most people do not recognize the value of life even though human life is the most valuable treasure they have on this earth.” Bhai Mardana Ji was a little bit surprised and said, “But surely most people can see the value of life.” Guru Sahib Ji looked at Bhai Mardana Ji and said “No, each person places his own value to things according to what he or she thinks. A different man with different knowledge will place a different value to things.”

Package A Page 16 gurmiq isiKAw Then while pointing to the stone in Bhai Mardana Ji’s hand, Guru Sahib Ji said, “that stone you found in the dirt will make a good example of this. Take it to the market and see what you can get for it. Bhai Mardana Ji was puzzled but obeyed Guru Sahib Ji and took the stone to the marketplace.

Bhai Mardana Ji first went to a stall that sold sweets and asked the person, “What would you trade for this stone?” The man laughed at Bhai Mardana Ji and said, “Go away, you’re wasting my time.” Bhai Mardana Ji was not surprised about this because who would trade anything for a stone found on the side of a road. Then Bhai Mardana Ji went to a produce seller and asked the same thing. The seller replied, “I have customers who pay me money so go away and don’t bother me, I am busy.” Bhai Mardana Ji tried many other shops with no better response.

Finally, Bhai Mardana Ji came to the shop of Salis Raj, a jewelry store owner. Bhai Mardana Ji showed him the stone and asked what he could get for the stone? Salis Raj was shocked to see the stone and said, “I’m sorry but I don’t have enough money to buy your gem. I can give you a hundred rupees if you will let me look at it a while longer.” Bhai Mardana Ji was very surprised and hurried back to Guru Sahib Ji to tell them what had happened.

Upon hearing the story, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji replied, “See, when we are not aware about the value of something, we can mistake a valuable gem for a worthless stone. If someone had told you its value before you knew what it was, you would have thought the sweets and produces sellers were crazy. Human life is also an unrecognized jewel, whatever you trade for it, that is what is yours.”

hIry jYsw jnmu hY kaufI bdly jwie ]1] Human life is such a precious jewel, but it is being lost in exchange for a mere shell. ||1|| [Ang 156]

Guru Sahib Ji taught us through this Sakhi that we should not waste our precious life. Guru Sahib Ji has given us the ability to recognize the benefits of this life and choose the right path. Some see this life as punishment full of obstacles and bad luck whereas others have recognized the value of life and see it as a blessing full of happiness and joy. We must at once begin on the path towards Guru Sahib

Package A Page 17 gurmiq isiKAw Ji so we can enjoy this life and be able to meet Guru Sahib during this life time. Importance of Hukam

Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji and Bhai Mardhana Ji were on their travels, when they came across a very humble sevadar of Guru Sahib Ji who had nothing but a little mud hut to live in. Guru Sahib Ji and Bhai Mardhana Ji decided to stay at the Gursikhs hut for the night. The Gursikh was very happy but he only had a little to eat in the house. So he prepared everything he had for Guru Sahib Ji and Bhai Mardhana Ji. However, Bhai Mardhana Ji felt a little sad knowing that this humble Gursikh had very little and he was giving most of it to them.

Guru Sahib knew this and told Bhai Mardhana Ji not to worry and said, “We must live in the will of Waheguru.” The Gursikh’s humility and love was his everything. Once they had finished their langar, Guru Sahib Ji looked to be in deep thought. Then Guru Sahib Ji told Bhai Mardhana Ji to break the little mud plates they had been eating their food on! Bhai Mardhana Ji looked confused and surprised. Bhai Mardhana Ji looked at the Gursikh and the Gursikh agreed saying “I am your humble sevadar, whatever Guru Sahib Ji wishes, you should do”. So Bhai Mardhana Ji proceeded to break the belongings that the Gursikh had.

The next day, Guru Sahib Ji arose and told the Gursikh that they would need to continue with their travels. The Gursikh was very sad that Guru Sahib Ji were leaving already and asked Guru Sahib Ji if he could walk some distance with them so he could spend a little more time with them. Guru Sahib Ji agreed and before leaving the house of the Gursikh, Guru Sahib Ji again after some deep thought asked Bhai Mardhana Ji to destroy the little mud hut of the Gursikh.

At this point, Bhai Mardhana Ji was puzzled about why Guru Sahib Ji would want to destroy the Gursikh’s only place to live. However, the Gursikh turned to Bhai Mardhana Ji with pleading eyes and said, “Please do as my Guru Sahib Ji says, whatever Hukam they give you, please just do it. Nothing here is mine; it is all Guru Sahib Ji’s. They always do everything to help me and even though we may not

Package A Page 18 gurmiq isiKAw be able to see the end result of this, Guru Sahib Ji will never let us down.” After listening to the Gursikh, Bhai Mardhana Ji began to taken down the mud hut with a little bit of hesitation. Guru Sahib Ji and Bhai Mardhana Ji continued their journey and the humble Gursikh followed them on their journey for a very short while. As night began to fall Guru Sahib Ji advised the Gursikh that he should now be getting back to what little was left of his hut and blessed the Gursikh for his seva. As the Gursikh returned to the place where his home used to be, he noticed a little two feet tall wall still remained. He thought that Bhai Mardhana Ji did not complete the task properly so he began breaking down the remaining wall.

As he broke down the wall bit after bit, he noticed the ground beneath becoming weaker and separating. The Gursikh said, “Dhan Guru Nanak Sahib Ji” as he saw that beneath those two foot walls laid a gold mine and the amazing Gursikh had been living on a goldmine without knowing about it. Guru Sahib Ji’s blessing came in such a disguise that far from destroying everything of the Gursikh, Guru Sahib Ji blessed him with more than he could have ever imagined. The Gursikh stood there with his eyes closed and did Ardaas thanking Guru Sahib Ji for the blessing and allowing the Gursikh to follow the Hukam of Guru Sahib Ji.

Guru Nanak Sahib Ji taught us a very valuable lesson about Hukam. Sometimes, we may believe that following Guru Sahib Ji’s Hukam like doing Nitnem everyday is boring and repetitive at first but it will make us stronger very quickly. It’s like learning how to ride a bike for the first time. At first, we fall down a lot and get bruises which doesn’t seem to be so much fun but once we learn how to ride a bike properly then we very much enjoy it and think that the bruises were a small cost for this much fun. Similarly, after a while we will enjoy the goldmine of Nitnem a lot and will want to read Gurbani all the time. Gurbani will sharpen our focus and we will not be distracted easily so we can enjoy even small tasks as walking, breathing and have more fun while playing sports.

Package A Page 19 gurmiq isiKAw Our 2nd Guru Sahib Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji

Parkash 1504, Matey Di Saran, Mukatsar Father Sri Pheru Mall Ji Mother Mata Daya Kaur Ji Wife Mata Khivi Ji Children Baba Dasu Ji, Baba Datu Ji Bibi Amro ji, Bibi Anokhi Ji Joyti Jot 1552, Khadoor Sahib

“Ang” means part of body.

He was chosen as the second Guru because of his willingness to obey Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Hukam.

Following Hukam (Obeying)

Guru Angad Dev Ji, our second Guru, taught us about many different things. He didn’t just teach us by talking though, He showed us how to be loyal Sikhs. One of the important concepts we learn from Guru Angad Dev Ji is to follow Guru Sahib’s Hukam.

Well, before Guru Angad Dev Ji became Guru and he was Bhai Lehna Ji, he spent a lot of time with Guru Nanak Dev Ji and did whatever he was told to do. One time, Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked him to throw out a dead rat! Can you believe it? Bhai Lehna Ji didn’t care, he just knew it was Guru Ji’s Hukam and he did it. Another time, Guru Nanak Dev Ji threw his mug into a dirty muddy pit. He asked his sons to grab it but they said no. He looked at Bhai Lehna Ji and did not even have to ask. Bhai Lehna Ji jumped into the pit, with his brand new clean clothes on and grabbed the mug.

Bhai Lehna Ji, now Guru Angad Dev Ji, always obeyed Guru Ji’s Hukam.

Package A Page 20 gurmiq isiKAw Gifts given to us by Guru Sahib

How many of you go to Punjabi class? Did you know that the a A e you learn, Guru Angad Dev Ji started that! He created those letters and started the first Khalsa School because he really loved children. And He wanted all the children to learn how to read and write Gurmukhi or Punjabi.

Imagine where we would be without Guru Ji starting this? We probably wouldn’t know how to speak Punjabi, or read or write. You know another cool thing Guru Sahib did?

He wanted Sikhs to play sports! He got his Sikhs together before evening diwaan for wrestling, and other sports. Guru Sahib wanted His Sikhs to exercise and be healthy and fit! And staying fit meant being healthy in all ways, including the food we eat. Guru Angad Dev Ji, along with his wife Mata Khivi Ji, really made sure Guru Ka Langar was always available and served to anyone.

It did not matter if the person coming to langar was rich or poor. You know the secret ingredients to langar? It should always be prepared with love and devotion and lots of it! The more the better! Bhai Mahna Ji – Seva and Humility

Once upon a time, there used to be a very hard working Sikh name Bhai Mahna. He did a lot of Seva in the Langar of Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji. He used to serve everyone Langar with a lot of love and Guru Sahib Ji was very pleased with his hard work. However, Bhai Mahna began to start thinking about how much more Seva he did than others and how he spent a lot more time in Langar Seva than others. His started thinking in

Package A Page 21 gurmiq isiKAw his mind that he was Guru Sahib Ji’s favourite Sikh because he worked the hardest and he was better than the other Sikhs.

When Sangat came to have Langar, Bhai Mahna was not as nice to the Sangat and would not serve them as he did before. Although he was doing his duty well, sometimes he would be rude and mean to some Sikhs because he thought that he worked harder than them so does not have to treat them with respect. When the hungry Sikhs used to ask him for meals, he would rudely tell them, “I am not your servant; I am servant of only my Guru Sahib Ji. Go away I can’t serve you people.” The Sikhs were hurt by these words and complained to Guru Sahib Ji about the misbehavior of Bhai Mahna. Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji called Bhai Mahna Ji and told him that, “all our Sikhs are equal to us so please treat them with respect. Please apologize to them and change your behavior.”

Bhai Mahna Ji did not like that the Sikhs complained against him to Guru Sahib Ji and became angry at the other Sikhs. He continued his mean and rude behavior with the other Sikhs. Sometimes, instead of serving the Sikhs according to their needs, Bhai Mahna would tell the other Sikhs that, “if you need something ask Guru Sahib Ji.”

The Sikhs again complained to Guru Sahib Ji and this time Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji called Bhai Mahna Ji and all of the Sangat. In front of all the Sangat, Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji told Bhai Mahna Ji, “Please leave the Langar and go to your home. Your Seva here is no good because whoever doesn’t serve the Sangat doesn’t serve us. We only recognize the Seva of those Sikhs, who instead of serving me serve the Sangat first.” Then Guru Sahib Ji said to all of the Sangat as well, “The first duty of a Sikh is to serve the needful. A Sikh should serve the Sangat by becoming more humble than them. One who feels incorrectly proud of his Seva, is in darkness. God has created everyone equally so there is no one higher or lower. We should serve everyone equally regardless of who they are.”

Upon hearing Guru Sahib Ji’s words, Bhai Mahna Ji began to cry and apologized to

Package A Page 22 gurmiq isiKAw Guru Sahib and the Sangat for his misbehavior. After that Bhai Mahna Ji was allowed to remain in the Langar Seva and became a very humble servant of all. Guru Sahib Ji teaches us that we must do Seva with humility and if we do a lot of Seva, we must be very careful not to allow our mind to get more ego. Sometimes after doing a lot of Seva, we start to think that we are better than others and lose Guru Sahib Ji’s happiness. Guru Sahib Ji is only happy with us when we serve the Sangat as if we are serving Guru Sahib Ji. We should serve them equally with love and dedication. Only then will Guru Sahib Ji be very happy with us.

Our 3rd Guru Sahib: Sri Guru Amar Das Ji

Parkash 1479, Basrke, Amritsar Father Sri Tej Bhan Ji Mother Mata Sulakhani Ji Wife Mata Ramo Ji Children Baba Mohan Ji Baba Mohri Das Ji Bibi Bhaani Ji, Bibi Daani Ji Joyti Jot 1574, Goindwal Sahib

Guru Amar Das Ji was 72 years old when he was chosen to be the next Guru. Baba Amar Das Ji served Guru Angad Dev Ji for 12 years. One of the banis that we recite every morning is Anand Sahib which was composed by Guru Amardas Ji.

Sri Guru Amar Das Ji’s Seva

Before Guru Amar Das Ji became Guru Sahib, Sikh Sangat used to address Him as Baba Amar Das Ji or Sri Amar Das Ji. Baba Amar Das Ji was loyal to Guru Angad Dev Ji and was always doing Seva. Every day he would go to the river with a pitcher on his head to get water for Guru Sahib’s bath, even when it was freezing cold and raining. Baba Amar Das Ji was ALWAYS doing Seva. Some people made fun of him, and called him homeless but he was not homeless. He told those people “You do not know what you are talking about. I am not homeless! Guru Sahib is my home; Guru Sahib is the home for all.” Guru Angad Dev Ji knew what Sri Amar Das

Package A Page 23 gurmiq isiKAw Ji was doing. He was completely in love with serving his Guru, the same way Guru Angad Dev Ji served Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Angad Dev Ji, in front of everyone hugged Sri Amar Das Ji and said, “My Amar Das is the home for homeless, protector of the weak, and hope for everyone.” We should never speak bad words about anybody and no matter what anyone else says or thinks, you should always continue to do Seva. No matter what!

Seva is 'selfless service', that is service performed without any thought of reward or personal benefit. For a Sikh, Seva is very important. It is the highest blessing from Waheguru.

Let’s look at some ways we can do Seva:  Washing dishes  Picking up trash  Dusting Sangat’s shoes  Helping the needy  Distributing Langar

Our 4th Guru Sahib Sri Guru Ram Das Ji

Parkash 1534, Chuna Mandi, Lahore Father Sri Hardas Ji Mother Mata Daya Kaur Ji Wife Mata Bhaani Ji Children Baba Prithi Chand Ji, Baba Mahan Dev Ji Guru Arjan Dev Ji Joyti Jot 1581, Goindwal Sahib

His previous name was Bhai Jetha Ji. Guru Ram Das Ji was married with Bibi Bhani Ji. Guru Sahib started construction of Amrit sarovar at Chak Guru Ram Das (Now Amritsar Sahib)

Guru Ram Das Ji was the fourth Guru of the Sikhs.

Before he became the Guru, His name was Bhai Jetha Ji. His parents died when

Package A Page 24 gurmiq isiKAw He was really young. He lived with His grandmother and worked really hard selling grains to make some money. Can you imagine having to do a job when you are 7 years old! It must be so hard but Bhai Jetha Ji never complained.

After some time, Bhai Jetha Ji moved to Goindwal Sahib with his grandmother. He continued selling grains. Then he would find time to go to Guru Amar Das Ji and do Seva and wash dishes and listen to Gurbani. What do you do when you have some time…..Watch T.V.? Play Games? How much time do we spend doing Simran and Seva?

Healing Powers of the Sarovar

How many of you have been to Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar? Have you heard or seen a tree there called Dukh Bhanjani Beri? Well, Dukh Bhanjani Beri is at the bank of the Amrit sarovar which has magical healing powers. Lots of Sikhs used to come to visit Guru Ram Das Ji at Amritsar Sahib.

In 1570, Guru Amardas Sahib Ji told Sri Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji that a great place of pilgrimage would appear at future site of Amritsar Sahib. In 1577, Sikhs presented themselves before Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji with a woman and a man. After matha taking to Guru Sahib Ji, the woman requested, “Guru sahib Ji, please listen to all that has happened to me and tell me what I should do. I will accept your decision that you make after that.”

The woman told her story to Guru Sahib Ji. She stated, “My name is Rajni. I am the youngest daughter of Duni Chand, a landlord of village Patti. I have four elder sisters. One day our father asked us, ‘Who provides for you all the food you eat?’ All of the sisters except me replied, ‘Father, it is you.’ I had heard that God provides for everyone so I told the truth and said, ‘It is God that gives me food to eat.’ My father became very angry after listening to my answer. He said, ‘I will see you if God provides for you or I do!’ When I grew up, he purposely married me off to a physically handicapped man and told me to leave his house to show me

Package A Page 25 gurmiq isiKAw that he can only help me and not God. I happily accepted this because I knew God will always be with me and help me. So I put my husband in a cart because he wasn’t able to walk and pulled him from village to village and begged for food. This morning, I placed the cart with my husband near the edge of a pond in the shade of a ‘Ber’ tree and went to the village to beg for something to eat for both of us. When I returned, the 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 crippled husband.’ Guru Sahib Ji please help me as I am confused of how this healthy person could be my disabled husband.

Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji asked the man, “Is this true?” The man replied, “Yes Guru Sahib Ji, I am her husband. When Rajni went to beg for food and left me in the cart by the pond, I saw that black crows would dive into the pond and would come out with their color changed to white like doves. I was amazed by this and slowly started to crawl towards the pond. I first put my hand in the water and when I took it out, it was healed of all the disease and became healthy! So I put dipped my whole body into that pond and by contact of water of that pond I was cured and my body is healthy again. I told Rajni everything on her return but she does not believe me. Guru Sahib Ji please help.”

Then Guru Sahib Ji closed their eyes for a few moments as they knew everything. They told that woman, “Rajni, he is your husband! You believed in God truthfully and from your heart and that is why God is very pleased with you and has cured your crippled husband with the touch of the water from that pond.” Bibi Rajni was amazed and fell to the Maharaj Ji’s feet and thanked Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji. Afterwards in Sangat, Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji told everyone that, “this pond is the holy spot about which Guru Amardas Sahib Ji had foretold us 7 years ago.” Early next morning, Guru Sahib took Baba Budha Ji along with them and began the excavation of the sarovar by the Ber which is now called the Dukh Bhanjani Ber beside the sarovar at Amritsar. The same Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree is still at Darbar Sahib in Amritsar today.

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Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji taught us a very valuable lesson that Guru Sahib Ji will always help us. All we have to do is honestly and truthfully believe in Guru Sahib Ji. Whenever we need help, we should close our eyes and ask Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji to kindly help us because we are his children and the father will always help his children.

Platform of Humility

Guru Amardas Sahib Ji had two son in laws, Bhai Jetha Ji (later Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji) and Bhai Rama Ji. Both did a lot of seva during the construction of Baoli Sahib at Goindwal Sahib and other sevas. Lots of Sangat was coming from many places to do seva at Goindwal Sahib and one day Sri Guru Amardas Sahib Ji wanted to show the sangat a higher level of seva. Guru Sahib Ji called both Bhai Jetha Ji and Bhai Rama Ji and said, “there is a lot of sangat coming to do darshan of Baoli Sahib and we would like you both to make a nice platform for us to sit on so that all of the Sangat can hear and see us from far away.” Bhai Jetha Ji and Bhai Rama Ji both humbly accepted the seva and began construction of the platform.

After a lot of work, the platform was finally completed and looked very nice. But when Guru Amardas Sahib Ji came to inspect it, they did not like it and said, “The platform is not straight, bring it down and rebuild it.” Both humbly obliged and demolished the newly built platform and began to build a new one as per Guru Sahib Ji’s instruction. When Sri Guru Amardas Sahib Ji inspected it again they said, “I do not like it. Demolish it and build another one.” Bhai Rama Ji was not happy with Guru Sahib Ji’s decision, whereas, Bhai Jetha Ji apologized and began to build a new one.

Package A Page 27 gurmiq isiKAw When the platform was built the third time, Sri Guru Amardas Sahib Ji said, “this is not built correctly either, build it again.” Upon hearing Guru Sahib Ji, Bhai Rama Ji was very frustrated and refused to build the platform again. But Bhai Jetha Ji said, “Guru Sahib Ji, I am very sorry that I cannot understand how to build the platform, please bless me so that I can build the platform correctly.” Bhai Jetha Ji again demolished the platform and started to build it again. Guru Amardas Sahib Ji continued to find faults with the platform until it was re-built the seventh time.

Then Guru Amardas Sahib Ji asked Bhai Jetha Ji, “Jetha, how come you are not frustrated and have built the platform seven times without any complaint?” Bhai Jetha Ji, fell to Guru Sahib Ji’s feet and begged for forgiveness and said, “Guru Sahib Ji, I am very sorry that I cannot build the platform properly as you would like, You possess all knowledge and are all knowing, please kindly bless me with the wisdom so that I may be able to build the platform to your liking.”

Upon hearing this, Sri Guru Amardas Sahib Ji smiled and embraced Bhai Jetha Ji and said, “You have built such a beautiful platform for us and now the same platform has been built inside you to seat Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Ji’s Jot. By obeying my order, you have built the platform seven times, so seven generations of yours shall sit on the throne of Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji.”

Then he asked Bhai Ballu to bring coco-nut and five paise. He asked Jetha Ji to bathe and clothe in new clothing. Then Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji descended from the throne and made Bhai Jetha Ji sit on the throne and called Bhai Jetha Ji, Guru Ram Das. Baba Buddha Ji, according to the custom, attached the tilak of Sovereignty to Sri Guru Ram Das Sahib Ji’s forehead. This ceremony was performed on August 30, 1574 at Goindwal Sahib.

Package A Page 28 gurmiq isiKAw Our 5th Guru Sahib Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji

Parkash 1563, Sri Goindwal Sahib Father Guru Ram Das Ji Mother Mata Bhani Ji Wife Mata Ganaga Ji Children Guru Hargobind Ji Joyti Jot 1606, Lahore, Pakistan

Guru Arjun Dev Ji compiled the Adi Granth Guru Arjun Dev Ji completed the construction of Sri Harmandir Sahib

Child Arjun Dev Ji spent his childhood days with his parents and his grandfather Guru Amar Das Ji. Guru Amar Das Ji knew from the beginning that there was something special about His youngest grandson. Guru Sahib knew this baby was a blessed soul and would become Guru one day.

One day, child Arjun Dev was playing with a ball and the ball rolled into the room. The child went into his grandfather’s room searching for his ball. At that time Guru Amar Das Ji was resting on His bed. The child was so busy in searching for the ball, that he didn’t notice he was disturbing his Grandfather during His rest. He crawled under the bed to get the ball. When he went underneath the bed, it was lifted from one side and Guru Amar Das Ji was disturbed from His rest. He arose and spoke suddenly, “Who is this great man who has shaken the whole of my bed?” On hearing these words, mother Bhani Ji ran to her father’s room and said, “This is your grandson, dear Father.” Guru Sahib Ji again said, “My grandson will be a great ship to carry the Word of God” Which was Guru Sahib’s way of telling that this child will become Guru in the future.

Harimandir Sahib

Located in the city of Amritsar Sahib Harimandir Sahib was built by Guru Arjun Dev Ji It is the most important Gurdwara Sahib for us. Harimandir Sahib is surrounded by Sarovar (tank)

Package A Page 29 gurmiq isiKAw Two important things to remember about Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji

st He was the 1 Guru Sahib who played a musical instrument himself while doing Kirtan. The instrument was called Saranda. Today, there are other instruments like Harmonium that we see.

Guru Sahib also gave us the gift of Adi Granth. Guru Sahib compiled the banis of our first four Guru Sahib’s and His own Bani. Guru Sahib also added banis from other saints and Sikhs. Guru Sahib compiled the bani into one Granth and it was named “Adi Granth”

Our 6th Guru Sahib: Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji

Parkash 1595, Gur Ki Wadali Father Guru Arjan Dev Ji Mother Mata Ganga Ji Wife Mata Damodri Ji, Mata Naanki Ji Mata Mahan Devi Ji Children Baba Gurditta Ji, Baba Atal Rai Ji, Baba Anhi Rai Ji, Baba Suraj Mal Ji Guru Teg Bahadar Ji, Bibi Veero Ji Joyti Jot 1644, Kiratpur Sahib

He is called the Bandi Chhorh Guru. He is also called Miri-Piri de Malik.

Guru Sahib completed the construction of Akal Takhat Sahib in front of Harmandir Sahib.

Package A Page 30 gurmiq isiKAw Miri Piri de Malik Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji

Why do we call Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Miri Piri de Malik?

th It’s because when Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji became the the 6 Guru, He decided to wear two swords: one of Miri, and the other of Piri.

Miri was for self-defense (Gatka and Martial Arts)

Piri was for spiritual power (Kirtan, Seva, and Simran)

Guru Sahib also built Akal Takhat Sahib right in front of Harmandir Sahib.

Diwali and Bandi Chhorh Day

Diwali is celebrated by Sikhs in remembrance of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Emperor Jahangir had imprisoned Guru Sahib at Gwalior Fort for a long time. Finally Emperor Jahangir realized his mistake and ordered the release of Guru Sahib. However, Guru Sahib said that He would not leave without the other 52 kings who were imprisoned

there as well. Jahangir told Guru Sahib that He could take the kings with him; however, Guru Sahib could only take those kings that could hold on to a piece of his chola. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had a chola with 52 strings made, so all of the kings could leave Gwalior Fort. That is why we call Guru Sahib “Bandi Chhorh”

Package A Page 31 gurmiq isiKAw (Bandi means prisoner, Chhorh means release). Upon His return to Amritsar, Sikhs were over-joyed; they were so happy to see Guru Sahib that they lighted the whole city of Amritsar including Harimandir Sahib. This day is known as Diwali, which means the festival of lights. Even today, on Diwali, Harimandir Sahib is lit with so many lights!

Our 7th Guru Sahib: Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji

Parkash 1630, Kartarpur Sahib Father Baba Gurditta Ji Mother Mata Nihal Kaur Ji Wife Mata Krishan Kaur Ji Children Baba Ram Rai Ji Guru Harkrishan Ji Joyti Jot 1661, Kiratpur Sahib

Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji was the grandson of Guru Hargobind th Sahib Ji. He was only 14 years old when he became our 7 Guru Sahib. He was known as the kind-hearted Guru Sahib.

Kind Hearted Guru

th Our 7 Guru was very kind hearted. He wanted to help everyone, so He opened a hospital at Kiratpur Sahib, where everyone could go and get treatment. It was free to everyone, and everyone was cured.

Even when the emperor’s son got sick, no one could cure him, so he came to Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji. Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji gave him medicine, and the emperor’s son was cured!

Guru Sahib also built a zoo in Kiratpur Sahib where he had all kinds of animal life.

Package A Page 32 gurmiq isiKAw Our 8th Guru Sahib Sri Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji

Parkash 1656, Kiratpur Sahib Father Guru Har Rai Ji Mother Mata Krishan Kaur Ji Joyti Jot 1664, Delhi

Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji is our youngest Guru. He was the youngest son of Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji. He was five years old th when he became our 8 Guru Sahib. He is also known as Bala-Pir or child Guru.

Remembering Sri Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji

You know, every time we do Ardas, we always remember Guru Har Krishan Ji when we say “Sri Har Krishan Dhiaayee, Jis Dithey Sab Dukh Jae”. This line means “Meditate on the name of Guru Har Krishan Ji, because by seeing Him, all the pain vanishes and all the diseases are cured”.

The Sakhi behind that is about the time when Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji went to Delhi. People were dying from diseases such as cholera and smallpox. Guru Sahib went around the city visiting people and curing them. That is why we still remember Guru Sahib by saying “Sri Har Krishan Dhiaayee, Jis Dithey Sab Dukh Jae” - Whoever saw Guru Sahib and got His blessing was cured of their illness.

Our 9th Guru Sahib: Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji

Parkash 1621, Guru Ke Mahal, Amritsar Sahib Father Guru Hargobind Ji Mother Mata Nanki Ji Wife Mata Gujri Ji Children Guru Gobind Singh Ji Joyti Jot 1675, Delhi

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Guru Teg Bahudur Ji sacrificed his life for the right of every person to worship the religion of his/her choice.

Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is built in New Delhi where Guru Sahib was martyred.

Kind-hearted Guru Teg Bahadur Ji

When Guru Sahib was younger, he was at the wedding of his older brother, Baba Gurditta Ji. Guru Sahib saw a boy around His age staring at Him and realized that the boy was very poor. Guru Sahib also noticed that the boy was staring at Guru Sahib’s nice clothes. Guru Sahib knew that His mother, Mata Nanaki Ji could buy Him new clothes, but the little boy’s mother couldn’t. So Guru Sahib took off his clothes without a word, and gave it to the little boy. That is how kind-hearted and generous Guru Teg Bahadur Ji was.

Practice What You Preach

Once upon a time when Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji were young, they used to play with their friends a lot. Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji were very wise and thoughtful at a young age. They believed that you can only tell others to do something if you practice it yourself. Thus, Guru Sahib Ji practiced all their teachings before teaching others.

One day, the mother of Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji’s friend came to Guru Sahib Ji with a very strange request. Their friend’s mother said to Guru Sahib Ji, “My young son has gotten into the habit of eating too much gurh and it is not healthy for him to eat that much gurh because it is very sweet.” So she requested Guru Sahib Ji to please speak to her son so that he does not eat so much gurh as it is not good for him.

Young Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji thought about what their friend’s mother had asked them to do. Guru Sahib Ji themselves ate gurh everyday! Guru Sahib Ji knew that they could not tell their friend to stop when they were eating gurh everyday too? So Guru Sahib Ji replied and said, “Ok, I will tell him, but please give me a week before I talk to my friend about eating less gurh.” Their friend’s mother was very pleased that Guru

Package A Page 34 gurmiq isiKAw Sahib Ji would talk to her son about eating less gurh.

Guru Sahib Ji decided to stop eating gurh themselves. After one week, Guru Sahib Ji spoke to their friend and said, “Friend, It is not good to eat too much gurh because too much gurh is not healthy.” Their friend happily agreed but his mother was confused and asked young Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji, “If you just had to say this simple thing to make him agree, why did you wait for one week to tell my son such a simple thing?” Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji smiled and said, “Mata Ji, last week I was eating gurh too, so I had to stop eating too much gurh before I could tell my friend to stop. Otherwise, it would not be fair for me to tell my friend to stop while I did not learn from the lesson.” Their friend’s mother smiled and realized how wise Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji were at such a young age and thanked them.

Guru Sahib Ji taught us that we must improve ourselves first and then help others from what we havelearned. So if we tell someone to do seva, then we should do seva ourselves too. This way our friends will listen to us. Even if we are very young, we can still ask others to do seva if we ourselves do seva too. Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji taught us not to ask someone to do something that we are not doing ourselves. You can only tell someone to be good if you are good yourself!

Waheguru Listens to our Ardas

Makhan Shah was a devoted Sikh. He was a business man and used to travel a lot for his business especially across the oceans. One time while he was traveling on ship, there came a sea storm and Makhan Shah’s ship was going to sink. He knew that he could only be saved if he did Ardas. So he prayed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Because of his humble Ardas, the storm passed away and Makhan Shah was saved. He came to Baba Bakale and found Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and bowed before him. It was the power of his Ardas !

Package A Page 35 gurmiq isiKAw Our 10th Guru Sahib Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Parkash 1666, Patna Sahib Father Guru Teg Bahadar Ji Mother Mata Gujri Ji Wife Mata Sundar Kaur Ji, Mata Ajit Kaur Ji Mata Sahib Kaur Ji Children Sahibzaada Ajit Singh Ji Sahibzaada Jhujaar Singh Ji Sahibzaada Jorawar Singh Ji Sahibzaada Fateh Singh Ji Joyti Jot 1708, Hazoor Sahib, Nanderh

The childhood name of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was

Gobind Rai. After the Parkash of (Guru) Gobind Rai, a Muslim saint by the name of Pir Bhikan Shah came to visit Gobind Rai Ji. He had a question in his mind, and he wanted to see if the child ((Guru) Gobind Rai Ji) would answer his question.

Pir Bhikan Shah came in with two pots of sweets: one from a Hindu shop and the other from a Muslim shop. He placed both of the pots in front of (Guru) Gobind Rai Ji, and watched quietly. (Guru) Gobind Rai Ji looked at Pir Bhikan Shah, and smiled, and placed both hands on both pots.What did that mean?

That meant that (Guru) Gobind Rai would be the Guru to Hindus and Muslims. He would treat everyone equally! Pir Bhikan Shah was pleased.

Package A Page 36 gurmiq isiKAw Young Heros: The Sons of the Guru Never Gave Up!

Guru Gobind Singh is a great light in the world. People who live in darkness do not like the light. Even though Guru Ji never threatened or attacked anyone, many people had decided to become enemies of the Guru.

Lead by Governor Wazir Khan, huge armies surrounded Anandpur. The Guru and the Sikhs were cut off from food and water. The Sikhs were starving. They went for months in a very desperate condition. Wazir Khan promised the Guru, "If you leave Anandpur, I will allow you to go wherever you want. No one will attack you. I swear on the holy Qu'ran." This imperial promise was written on the holy Qur'an, which is the Muslim Holy Book. It was signed by the emperor himself.

The Guru knew that the opposing armies were all liars... but the Sikhs convinced the Guru’s mother, Mata Guru Ji, to leave the fort, "My son, if we stay here, we will all die. We have no food or water. We have no choice but to believe their promise. We must leave."

Everyone left during the night to cross the river. Wazir Khan lied! He broke the

oath written on the holy Qu'ran, "ATTACK THE SIKHS!!!"

It was a fierce battle, many were captured and killed. The Guru's two younger sons were only 6 and 8 years old. Fateh and Zoraavar -- the sahibzade; the princes -- crossed the river and ended up alone with their grandmother, Mata Gujri.

They wandered through the jungle looking for shelter. "Grand-mother do you think we will see Guru Pita again?" "Even if we don't see Pita Ji again, it just matters that we remember God." Mata Gujri always kept a spiritual mood, "My dear children, remember that your grandfather Guru Teg Bahadur was a brave saint! When his life was taken, he never forgot to meditate on God"

They came across another traveller in the jungle, "You must be lost, come with me, you will be safe with me! You remember me right!? I used to serve you in the

Package A Page 37 gurmiq isiKAw Guru's house. You recognise me... Yes of course you do... You can trust me, come" They trusted him and stayed at his house, but very soon found out he lied and betrayed them for money. The young boys and Mata Gujri were captured and taken away. The situation was awful but Mata Gujri Ji held a very sacred prayer. "Bless you my dear boys. Never forget the sacred tradition of the Gurus. May God bless you. May you be in high spirits!" The boys were fearless and kept having fun. "We will! Haha" "We will never give up our faith! Haha!"

Wazir Khan ordered, "Bring me the sons of that wretched Gobind Rai!" He was corrected, "Sir, I believe they call him Gobind Singh now-" "-I DON'T CARE WHAT THEY CALL HIM... just bring the children to me so I can convert them to be one of us!!!"

The two young boys were brought to the Governors court. A soldier told the boys, "You cannot go through the normal door. You will have to go through this.... special tiny.... door here." You see he was trying to trick the Guru's sons. But the boys saw through the trap! "They are trying to get us to bow to the governor!" "Haha, than let's go in feet first!" They boys laughed and crawled through the little door backwards with their feet first! Then they called out: "Waheguru Ji ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji ki Fateh!"

Everyone in the court was surprised at their bold spirit! They thought, "It will be great to have them with us.... once they embrace our religion, of course." One of them said, "You should have some respect for your ruler. Bow to him like a proper subject." The boys boldly responded, "We are Sikhs of Guru Nanak." "We do not bow to any man, we bow only to the Guru."

Governor Wazir Khan saw how fearless and bright these small ones were. He thought that history would see him as a great man if he could change them to be in his religion, "How sweet and brave they are. They will be great men one day! They will make excellent Muslims!... Ahem, my dear boys, our religion will be proud to have you. Recite our religious prayers and you will be welcomed as one of us. Land, wealth, wives, happiness, I will give you anything you ask for."

Package A Page 38 gurmiq isiKAw The Sahibzade talked to each other for a moment, Zoravar said, “Little Fateh said, “Our grandfather gave his head but not his faith. We must follow his example. We have taken Amrit. We are blessed by spirit and by sword. Why should we worry about death? Let’s give our lives, Sikh Dharma will grow and these tyrants will fall!”

The Sahibzade spoke to the wicked Wazir Khan, “We come from a virtuous family. Our father is Guru Gobind Singh, our grand-father is Guru Teg Bahadur and our great-grand-father is Guru Hargobind. We will follow their example!” "Our faith is more important than life. We don't care for your wealth! You cannot bribe us, you fool!! We will never give up the Sikh Dharma! When you killed our grand-father, you started a fire... and when you kill us that fire will explode! You will be destroyed and we will not lose our faith!!" "We won't give up the Sikh Dharma no matter what. Death has no meaning for us."

Governor Wazir Khan wasn't used to being talked to like that especially from children! He said to his priest, "Did you hear these....WRETCHED MONSTERS??!! Don't think they are just innocent children! These boys are just rebels like their father. WE MUST PUNISH THEM!!" The priest didn't know what to say, "But your governorship, we cannot punish them... they have not committed any crimes, it says in the law of our religion that-" Wazir Khan interrupted, "But they are a threat!! Haven't you heard how...... RUDE they are!!!?"

He really had no good reason to punish these innocent and brave sons of the Guru, so he tried convincing them again, "Ahem, You are still so young, you should be enjoying life. If you listen to me you will get happiness in this life, and in the afterlife, you will live in paradise!" The Sahibzade laughed and said, "We do not fear death, we will sacrifice everything to keep our faith."

The Governor was outraged that he couldn't convince the boys in any way. He tried to taunt them, "Don't you know that your older brothers are dead now. Your father also died on the battlefield." The Governor was not right about that, and in their hearts, the boys knew the truth. They said, "Our father is a great man, no one can kill him, he is protected by the Immortal God! He will never fall into your hands. He could destroy all of you in a moment if he wanted to, but instead he follows the laws of the heavens."

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They were so brave, the Governor was really impressed. He wanted to convert them to his religion even more. So instead of giving them a punishment right away he gave them another chance, "Why don't you ask your grandmother if she would prefer you die at such a young age... or if she wants you to change your religion.... and live."

When they got back to Mata Gujri Ji, she kissed their precious foreheads. They told her everything. She blessed them, "You are in such high spirits, I'm very proud of you. You both have shown the greatest strength. You are the light of the Guru. Don't forget the sacrifice of Guru Arjun Dev Ji and Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. Don't ever give up. God's love is always with you."

That night they all slept in a freezing cold tower and in the morning they were taken to the court again. The boys listened to what their grandmother said and the whole day they didn't give an inch. That night they again slept in the freezing tower with their grandma. On the third day they were given another chance to convert or die. They stood firm, "Until the end of our lives, we will stand up to those who manipulate and control others!!"

Wazir Khan asked them, "Boys... what will you do if I allow you to live?" They boldly responded, “We will dedicate our lives to ending tyrants like you!”

Wazir Khan told his priest that he would have to punish the children for all the crimes they would commit in the future, "They will definitely be rebels against us when they grow up. You heard what they said! Priest! Tell me what is the punishment for being a rebel according to our religious laws?" The priest obeyed, "Yes sir.... crimes in the future... well... the most reasonable punishment for being rebels is... they should be... bricked alive inside a wall."

Wazir Khan ordered that the children be brought out to be killed in the open so that everyone could see what happens to rebels. The torturer began building the bricks up The common people were surprised, "What a horrible thing to do to children!!!" "If the rulers end these precious young lives, it will mean the end of

Package A Page 40 gurmiq isiKAw this empire."

Mata Gujri Ji couldn't see what was happening to her precious and heroic grandchildren. Up in the cold tower she was praying for them constantly, "My precious children, may God and Guru continue to bless you with the sweetness of the holy Naam. May you live forever in deathlessness. May you continue with fearless hearts? Bless your precious souls...... " Her prayer continued to hold them.

They looked so beautiful even the torturers heart brightened to see them, "Psssst, kids... I have to do this to you, but... I don't want to. Why don't you reason with the Governor, you don't have to die today!" The boys wouldn't hear of it. They said, "Build the bricks fast and bury the Mughol Empire quickly! Do it as quick as possible." The brave princes chanted and remembered the Naam, "Ik Ongkaar, Satinaam, Karta Purkh, Nirbao, Nirvair, Akal Murat Ajooni, Saibhang, Gurprasad, Jap, Aad Sach, Jugaad Sach, Hai Bhi Sach, Nanak Hosi Bhi Sach..." The bricks were being built higher, and higher, and higher...

Zoraavar, the royal son of the Guru, started crying. His brother asked, "Why are you crying?" Zoraavar said, "...I'm crying.... because... I'm older and stronger than you right now." Fateh was confused, "Why would this make you cry brother?" Zoraavar explained, "If you leave your body first, you'll be in the lap of Grandpa Guru Teg Bahadur... you'll be with God before I will.... I don't want to be separate from God for one second. I want to be merged; I want it so much..." People in the crowd began to cry too,”They are like angels on earth. So beautiful, so brave, so precious."

The fearless sons of Guru Gobind Singh had gone through the worst. As they were being closed up inside a wall, they got lost in meditating on God. Finally the air inside ran out and they became unconscious. The torturer decided to end their pain and finished their lives. The two courageous, bright souls went to meet their

Package A Page 41 gurmiq isiKAw true family with the angels.

When Mata Gujri Ji heard about the children, she knew that her purpose in life was also complete, so her graceful soul also left her body and joined them.

Later Guru Gobind Singh heard what happened. He was not sad but he knew what needed to happen. He took his arrow and pulled a plant from the ground with it. Then he said, "Oppression and injustice need to be taken out... from the root."

Inspired by these young boys sacrifice, the Khalsa later swept across the land and wiped out Wazir Khan and many other tyrants. Eventually the Khalsa built a huge kingdom all throughout the land.

We always remember that as Khalsa, we are here to chase away the darkness and bring light to this world. We remember Mata Gujri for her sacred prayer... for her grace... her strength... and her love.

If you ever feel shy about standing out as a Sikh, remember these young princes and you will have courage. If you ever see a bully or a tyrant, remember the Sahibzade, their courage, and their happiness.

Let us always be fearless of death and always remember our sweetness.

Baba Budha Ji

Baba Budha Ji is one of the great gursikhs in Sikh history. He met with Guru Nanak Dev Ji when he was only 11 years old. His original name was Bura (bUVw) and was given the name of Budha by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Over the years, he was known as Baba Budha Ji. Guru Nanak Dev Ji had told him that He (Guru Sahib) could never remain hidden from Baba Budha Ji. Baba Budha Ji was the one to do Ardas for Mata Ganga Ji and Guru Arjun Dev Ji to Ask Waheguru ji to bless them with a son.

Package A Page 42 gurmiq isiKAw Baba Budha Ji was given the responsibility for teaching Hargobind Sahib Ji how to read the Holy Scriptures and learn horsemanship and swodsmanship. When the work of digging the Amrit Sarovar at Harmandir Sahib began, Baba Budha Ji was given the responsibility to oversee the sewa. He used to sit underneath the Ber (Jujubee) tree and oversee the work. That Ber tree is still there at Harmandir Sahib and its called Ber Baba Budha Ji.

He is the only Gursikh who had seen eight of the ten Guru Sahibs, He also performed the Gurgaddi Ceremony for 5 Guru Sahibs. Baba Budha Ji was also the first Head Granthi (Priest) at Harmandir Sahib. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had lot of respect and affection for Baba Budha Ji. In fact, it was Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji who performed the cremation ceremony of Baba Budha Ji when Baba Ji left this world.

Bebe Nanaki Ji

Bebe Nanaki Ji was the elder sister of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.She was born in 1464 at her mother‟s village. She was 5 years older than Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Sahib and Bebe Nanaki Ji had a close relationship. She was Guru Nanak Dev Ji‟s first Sikh (first follower).

Bebe Nanaki Ji was the first to recognize that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was not an ordinary man. While Sri Kalyan Das Ji and Mata Tripta Ji, and others would get upset with Guru Sahib for His actions, Bebe Nanaki Ji would always take His side and encourage her brother on His mission. It was Bebe Nanaki Ji who pleaded with her father to try to understand Guru Nanak Dev Ji when he was upset with Guru Sahib for spending the 20 rupees on the hungry saints.

Bebe Nanaki Ji was married to Bhai Jai Ram Ji and lived in Sultanpur after her marriage. Guru Sahib continued to live with His parents in Talwandi, but His

Package A Page 43 gurmiq isiKAw parents were very much worried about Him. Sri Kalyan Das Ji would get upset with Guru Sahib because He would spend all day meditating or visiting saints and would not do any work around the house. Before her marriage, Bebe Nanaki Ji would calm her father, but now that she had moved away there was no one to stand up for Guru Sahib. Rai Bullar arranged for a job for Guru Sahib with Daulat Khan, the Nawab of Sultanpur. So Guru Sahib moved to Sultanpur and started living with Bebe Nanaki Ji and Bhai Jai Ram Ji.

When Guru Nanak Dev Ji came to Sultanpur, Bebe Nanaki Ji started to bow to her younger brother. Guru Sahib stopped her and told her that she was His older sister and she should not bow to Him. However, Bebe Nanaki Ji responded, "That would be true if you were an ordinary man, but you are more to me. I see God in you."

Bhai Jai Ram Ji himself had a great respect for his younger brother-in-law. He respected Guru Sahib very much and considered himself blessed for being related to Him. When Guru Nanak Dev Ji went missing in the byeIN River, everyone had given up hope, they all thought that Guru Sahib had drowned. But Bebe Nanaki Ji kept faith. She told everyone, “My brother came to this world on a mission and He will not leave until the mission is completed. My brother cannot drown, He will come out. You wait and see.”

When Guru Nanak Dev Ji was going away on one of the Udaasis, Bebe Nanaki Ji asked Guru Sahib, “How will I live without seeing my dear brother?” Guru Nanak Dev Ji replied, “Dear sister, whenever you shall think of me I shall come to visit you.” Guru Sahib kept his promise. Once When Bebe Nanaki Ji was making Parshadey (roti), the Parshada was inflated and looked really great. Bebe Nanaki Ji remembered how Guru Nanak Dev Ji loved this kind of Parshada and she wished her brother would come to eat it. Right at that very moment Guru Nanak Dev Ji walked in and said, “I'm so hungry.” Bebe Nanaki Ji was overjoyed!

During the rest of their lives, Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited His sister many times.

Package A Page 44 gurmiq isiKAw The last time Guru Sahib met Bebe Nanaki Ji was in 1518. She breathed her last in the presence of Guru Sahib, while JapuJi Sahib was being recited to her. Bhai Jai Ram Ji himself did not live much longer. He passed away three days later. For Guru Nanak Dev Ji, this was His last visit to Sultanpur. He had kept His promise to His sister and visited her whenever her heart had called out for Him.

5 Kakaars kys Kes (Uncut Hair):By keeping our hair uncut, we are accepting how Waheguru created us and honoring His will. A Sikh must not remove any hair from any part of the body - not only the head. kMGw Kanga (Wooden Comb):A wooden comb that every Sikh must keep in his/her hair (Kes), which serves the purpose of keeping Kes neat and tidy. Out of respect and thanks for the gift of Kes, Sikhs use the Kanga twice a day to comb their hair.

kVw Karha (Iron Circlet): A Sikh must wear a Karha on his/her working hand as a reminder to always do the right thing. The unbroken braclet represents the ongoing circle of life and death, and reminds us of Waheguru, our only savior. ikrpwn Kirpan (Siri Sahib – dagger or sword): ikrpw means Mercy and Awn means Honor Sikhs are taught only to use the kirpan, in self-defense or in the defense of those who need their help. A Sikh is required to wear a Kirpan at all times.

kCihrw Kacchera (Underwear): A Sikh must wear a Kachhera long enough to cover his/her legs up to the knees. The Kachhera is a reminder to exercise self control and remain pure in one’s dedication to Guru Sahib.

Package A Page 45 gurmiq isiKAw Glossary of Punjabi Words

 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)  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.  Bani (bwxI, gurbwxI, Dur kI bwxI): The word of Timeless, Formless Waheguru brought to us by Guru Sahibs.  Bebe (byby): Elder sister, mother, or grandmother (most commonly used for Bebe Nanki Ji)  Bhai (BweI): Literally means brother, a word used to address a honored Sikh  Bhagti (BgqI): Meditation  Brahmin (bRwhmx) High class in Hindus  Chandoa (cMdoAw): A canopy that adorns above Guru Granth Sahib Ji as a sign of respect  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.  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  Darshan (drSn): To see or meet  Deewan/Diwan (dIvwn): Congregation, royal court  Dharamsala (Drmswlw): An old name for Gurdwara Sahibs  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!  Ghar (Gr): House  Golak (golk): An area where offerings to the Guru are placed

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 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.  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  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 ( Julian month of June – July)  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  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  Kara (kVw): an iron bangle Level 3 Page 47 gurmiq isiKAw

 Karam (krm): Deeds  Kangha (kMGw): a wooden comb  Katha (kQw): an explanation of Gurmukhi and Sikh History  Kaur (kOr): Princess, Last name of Sikh woman  Kesh (kys): uncut hair  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  Laina (lYx): to take  Mahal (mihl): wife of Guru Sahib  Mai (mweI): Mother, A respectful term used to address respectful woman  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  Mithha Bolna (im~Tw bolxw): a sweet and melodious voice; speaking positively of others  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  Nithawan (inQwvW): abodeless, shelterless, homeless  Paisa (pYsw): One hundrederth part of Indian Rupees  Palki (pwlkI): palanquin (a seat carried on poles)  Panja (pMjw): hand  Parkarma (pRkrmw): the act of going around Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Level 3 Page 48 gurmiq isiKAw

 Parkash (pRkwS): light; see „Parkash Diwas‟  Parkash Diwas (pRkwS idvs): a respectful term to describe Guru Sahib‟s birthday  Parsad (pRswd): means blessing; often refers to Karah Parshad (see above)  Parshada/Prashadey (pRSwdy/pRSwdw): roti; tortilla made of flour  Paurees (pwauVI): steps; also refers to stanzas in Gurbani  Pir (pIr): spiritual guide, Muslim saint  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  Reetha (rITw): soap-nuts that are used to make shampoo and detergent  Roti (rotI): tortilla made of flour  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  Sangat (sMgq): Congregation; people who are worshipping; worshippers  Sehaj (shj): A blissful stage of calmness  Siropa (isropw): An honorary cloth given to a person in honor of performing a good deed/act  Sarovar (srovr): Holy pool of water

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 Sat-Bachan (s~q-bcn): 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 reader‟s own pace.  Seva (syvw): Self-less service that you do to benefit others without expecting anything in return  Shakti (SkqI): Temporal power  Simran (ismrn): Remebering Waheguru and meditating on His Naam  Singh (isMG): Lion, Last name of Sikh man  Taabiya (qwibAw): In presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji specifically being in reading position  Takhat (qKq): An eternal throne representing Authority.  Tayra (qyrw): Adressing to Waheguru that “it belongs to you; all is yours Lord”  Tilak (iqlk): Ceremonial symbol  Udaasis (audwsI): Journeys of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.  Vaisakh ( vYswK): Lunar Punjabi calendar month (Months of April - May)  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.

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