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Guru Nanak Dev

Questions & Answers Dr. Mandeep Singh Nanak Dev

Questions & Answers Dr. Mandeep Singh

Sikh Book Trust International

Model Town Extension, Ludhiana -141002 Ph : 0161-2450352, 98882-66676 “Disclaimer : GGSSC has tried it’s best to provide material from free resources. Please note that there might be differences in the historical dates or some other data. In totality the focus is on morals and conceptual authenticity though care has been taken to use commonly accepted resources for historical information. All reference materials are to be weighed against teaching of ji.”

Guru Nanak Dev - Life & Teachings Dr. Mandeep Singh

ISBN : 978-93-87152-73-1

© Publishers

First Edition : October, 2020

Price : Rs. 80/-

Printer : Printwell , Sri

Published by : Virsa Publications (Sikh Book Trust International) Study Circle Model Town Extension, Ludhiana-141002 Ph : 0161-2450352 Email : [email protected] Dedicated to

the 550th birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Objective Sri Guru Nanak Dev was the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikh Faith. The Infinite Supreme Spirit, God himself was the Guru or Teacher of Guru Nanak Dev. The Celestial Verse of the God, Ksm kI bwxI, was revealed to Guru Nanak and to other five , his spiritual , and was revealed to the humankind.

Guru Nanak Dev also initiated the rich tradition of collection of Celestial Verses which were revealed by and . He started an illustrious faith with the message of sbdu gurU suriq Duin cylw (AMg 943) (My Guru is His Word and my consciousness is the disciple).

The status of Eternal Guru to Sri Guru Granth Sahib has been granted as per the orders of Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru. Baptism of Sword and practice of the last verse of Japuji Sahib is the practical way to live Sikh way of life. The life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev and his Celestial Verse are proficient to make our personal and social life meaningful.

The Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle, on the occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, has strived to publish a book, for curious readers of schools, colleges and universities, on the life and teachings of the Guru in the form of Questions and Answers. S Mandip Singh, the writer of this book has worked hard with commitment and feelings to complete this task. We are greatly indebted to Prof. Maninder Singh Abohar for translating it into English.

We are thankful of S Baljit Singh, the Chief of Manuscript Approval Committee and Vice Chairman, Dr Balwinderpal Singh, Convener and Addl. Chief Organiser, S Prithi Singh Secretary General, Dr Avininderpal Singh, Director General, all of Guru Gobind 4 Singh Study Circle and S Satbir Singh Editor of Cosmic Faith and other member of the organization; who have all contributed their valuable time for giving splendid facelift to this book, resulting in publication of “Guru Nanak Dev- Life and Teachings” and making this available to the eager readers.

We hope that the readers will welcome this book enthusiastically and will not hesitate to give suggestion for further improvement of this book. This will give us tremendous pleasure for improving the future editions. In the end we thank the Immortal Divine for blessing us to accomplish this service.

Jasbir Singh Deputy Director Sikh Book Trust International Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle

5 Preface Five hundred and fifty years ago, in 1469 A.D, the Creator blessed His creation with the Spirit we call ‘Guru Nanak Dev ji ’. Now, in 2019 A.D. the world unites in gratitude of the Almighty Lord and rejoicing the event which revolutionized human life thereafter. Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘holy tune’ of the Lord’s rebec (Rabaab) which, flowing in the air (pavan) and mingling with the water (paani), infuses new life in every grain of sand on this earth (Dharat). Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘roaring beat’ of the eternal drum (nagaara) which, wherever heard, banishes evil, injustice and oppression. Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘eternal power’ which stands by the meekest of the meek and demolishes the barriers of narrow mindedness and falsehood which chain the humanity in bondage. Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘dazzling light’ that removes all darkness from the path of humanity, making life simple, beautiful, meaningful and blissful, Guru Nanak Dev ji is a ‘selfless life’ dedicated to love amd empathy for humanity, across boundaries - political, social and economical. Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘blissful journey’ which one undertakes from ‘Dharm Khand’ to ‘Sacch Khand’, from being a responsible citizen to realizing the highest realms of , of oneness with the Lord. Guru Nanak Dev ji is the ‘soothing message’ of eternal Truth and all those blessed souls who see, understand and imbibe are emancipated and in ecstacy hail thee as ‘Guru’ Nanak , ‘Peer’ 6 Nanak, ‘Lama’ Nanak, ‘’ Nanak, ‘Baba’ Nanak, Nanak ‘Shah Fakeer’, ‘Dhann Guru’ Nanak ‘Dev’! Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle contributes on this auspicious occasion with a humble effort to record the human journey of Guru Nanak Dev ji and the inherent message in a simple question- answer form focusing on the school going students in particular though others too will find it connecting and fulfilling. We pray that the Almighty bless us all to imbibe the message of Guru Nanak Dev ji and lead blissful lives. Academic Council Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle

7 From Writer’s Desk ordains that “Gur Nanak Jinh Suneya Paekhiya Sei Phir Garbhaas Na Pariaah Rae” which literally means that people who have listened to & witnessed Guru Nanak are able to free themselves from that cycle of life & death. Now the question arises whether we can witness Guru Nanak Dev Ji from the picture made by an artist based on his preconceived notions? Here Ji beautifully explains that “Gurmurat Gurshabad hai” which means that shabad of Guru ji is the true picture of the Guru himself. Shabad Guru can be witnessed in the Gurbani which means that Guru Nanak Dev ji’s philosophy has to be imbibed to free oneself from the worldly woes. This book was penned down to commemorate the 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Sahib in the sincere hope that it will spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Sahib amongst the mankind. The book is based on simple format of questions & answers for easy comprehension, followed by the crux of the sakhi for easy learning. The emphasis is on the authenticity of concept and message though care has been taken to be historically correct as per com- monly accepted resources/references. The need of hour is to understand & internalize the teachings of Guru Sahib by being motivated by his life. Dr Mandeep Singh Zonal Secretary Abohar-Sri Ganga Nagar Zone Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle

8 Guru Nanak Dev Life & Teachings Questions & Answers

1. When and where was Guru Nanak Dev ji born? Guru Nanak Dev ji was born on 15th April, 1469 at ‘Talwandi Rai Bhoi’, since called ‘Nanakana Sahib’, now in . Some historians say it was katak puranmashi of samvat 1526 (1469 AD) and hence is celebrated on Katak Puranmashi. ------2. What was the name and occupation of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s parents? ji–the mother and Mehta Kaliyan Chand ji was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s father. His was an affluent Hindu family and ‘Mehta Kalu ji’, as his father was commonly called, was a ‘patwari’, an officer for land records, taxation and revenue. He had 10 villages under his supervision. ------3. What does the prefix ‘Mehta’ indicate? The prefix ‘Mehta’ implies important/respectable. As he was entrusted with an important and responsible task, people respectfully called him ‘Mehta’ Kalu ji. ------4. What did the renowned scholar Bhai Gurdas write on the advent of Guru Nanak Dev ji? ‘Satgur Nanak pargateya miti dhund jag chanan hoa’: Implies that with the advent of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the dense fog of ignorance vanished and the light of knowledge illuminated everything. ------9 5. Who was entrusted with the job of teaching young Nanak? The written down by Guru Nanak Dev ji showcase a striking evidence of his expertise in Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian and Punjabi. He was tutored at the young age by: Pandit Gopal – Hindi; Pandit Brij Lal – Sanskrit; Maulvi Qutab ud din – Persian. ------6. What does the Janeu symbolize? Guru Nanak Dev ji was born in a Hindu khatri family and the janeu-a thread worn across the body, was considered essential as initiation into and spirituality. ------7. Who was assigned to perform the janeu ceremony? Pandit Hardayal, the family priest was requested to do the courtesy in a grandly organized ceremony well attended by all relatives and friends. ------8. What reason did Pandit Hardayal give to satisfy Guru Nanak Dev ji’s curiosity about the utility of the janeu ceremony? He replied that the janeu ceremony would usher in a new life for Nanak, the spiritual life. ------9. Why was young Guru Nanak Dev ji not satisfied with the statement? The janeu meant for nurturing a spiritual life must be befitting. The janeu of cotton thread that was being offered was a physical entity subject to physical conditions. It would get soiled and even break through wear and tear over time and will have to be sought again. It would burn with the body 10 while the soul was everlasting. How could it benefit the soul? The Pandit had no answer to young Guru Nanak Dev ji’s queries. ------10. What alternate form of janeu did Guru Nanak Dev ji suggest the Pandit to offer? dfJnk egkj ;zsoy[ ;{s[ is[ rzYh ;s[ tN[] “ kapah sut jat gandhi sat vat; J/j[ iB/T{ ihn ek jJh s gkv/ xs[] Ehu janeu jeo ka hai ta pandey ghatt: Bk J/j[ s[N? B wb[ br? Bk J/j[ ib? B ikfJ] Na ehu tuttai na malu laggai na ehu jaley na jaaye; XzB[ ;[ wkD; BkBek i o rfb ub/ gkfJ] Dhan so manas nanka jo gall challey paaye:” (SGGS 471) ------11. What is the meaning of the statement above? O’ pandit , if you have a janeu that could benefit the spirit/ soul then please give me that instead. Let compassion be the cotton, contentment be the thread, discipline be the knots and truthfulness be the twist of this janeu. A janeu made not from perishable materials but from like compassion, contentment, discipline and truthfulness is what could transform and benefit spiritually. Lucky are those who wear such a janeu around their neck. ------12. What was the end result of the discussion at the ceremony? The priest had no answer to the logical query of the young boy and the ceremony ended without Guru Nanak Dev ji wearing that janeu. ------11 13. “Lakh choriya lakh jariya lakh kooriya lakh gaal; lakh thuggiya pahinamiya raat dinas jee naal”. What is the meaning of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s verse? Man commits thousands of robberies, thousands of acts of adultery, thousands of falsehoods and thousands of abuses. He practices thousands of deceptions and shady deeds, night and day, against his fellow beings. Of what use is then the superficial ritualistic wearing of the janeu. ------14. What do we learn from this verse? Without imbibing the virtues inside and mere outward religious appearance is useless and deceptive. It does no good to the soul. ------15. What is the implicit message for the modern youth from this incident? Dare to ask; but be respectful and logical, with a yearning to learn. All practices and rituals should be made to pass through the test of logic and reason. Dogmatic practices and meaningless rituals should be discarded as they make life hard and complicated. To make life simple, blissful and purposeful sincere efforts should be made for the spiritual elevation of self and mankind by imbibing the humane virtues of love, compassion, contentment, self discipline and truth. ------16. Where and when was Guru Nanak Dev ji married? Guru Nanak Dev ji, at the age of 18, was married to Bibi Sulakhni, daughter of Sri Mool Chand of , presently a township in , . ------12 17. Who was ? His father Mir Baadra and mother Lakkho belonged to the chonbhad caste of miraasis. He was blessed with the intimacy and holy company of Guru Nanak Dev ji for about 47 years. He was elder to Guru Nanak Dev ji by 9 years and 2 months and a master musician of the rabaab, a versatile string instrument. ------18. What was the impact of his companionship with the Guru on the society? With the caste system deeply rooted in the society it was revolutionary to see a despicable low caste, poor Mardana being befriended and honoured by the high caste Khatri, son of a patwari, Guru Nanak Dev ji. Both used to sit together for long hours, unmindful of the social opinion, singing hymns in praise of the Almighty. People saw the two together on the long journeys, udaasis, undertaken by Guru Nanak Dev ji for spreading the message of love and truth. Their being together had a demolishing impact on the divisions existing on religious, social and economic grounds. ------19. What was ‘Sacha Sauda’, - the true bargain, incident related to the life of Guru Nanak Dev ji? At the age of eighteen, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was sent by his father Mehta Kalu Ji to the city to do some profitable business. His father was disappointed that Guru Sahib’s mind was not into farming and other worldly work, therefore, he thought perhaps engaging him in trade would firstly, be a good profitable profession, and secondly his son would be happy all day talking to his clients about his business. Thinking this way and choosing an auspicious day, he called Bhai Mardana Ji to accompany Guru Sahib. Mehta Kalu Ji gave twenty rupees to Bhai Mardana Ji and said, “Go with Nanak. Buy and bring some genuine goods by 13 selling of which we may make profit. In this way if you make a profitable transaction, next time I will send you with more money to buy goods.” Guru Nanak Dev ji and Bhai Mardana Ji started from Talwandi towards Choohar-kaana to purchase some merchandise. They had hardly gone ten or twelve miles from the village when they came across a group of ascetics (Sadhus) who were hungry. It was a famine like situation in those days and no one offered them food. Guru Nanak Dev ji was appalled at their self inflicted state of misery and wanted to guide them out of it. But seeing that any advice will be effective only after their basic and immediate need was met, he took Bhai Mardana Ji to the next nearest village dwelling, where he bought plentiful supply of food and clothing. After feeding them he advised them that it is futile to beg for your needs and think that renunciation of work and family life would lead to salvation. They should live in tune with nature and only then can they lead a virtuous life. The sadhus felt blessed and enlightened and thanked Guru Nanak Dev ji . Taking leave from the sadhus, they started back empty- handed. Mehta Kalu ji did not appreciate this and was very angry. For father Mehta Kalu Ji, amassing of wealth was the only true bargain because in this world it is money which is the mark of nobility, it is the wealthy that is wise. Guru Nanak Dev ji tried to convince his father by telling that he had not done anything wrong with the money but has done a ‘Sacha Sauda’ (True bargain) in the true sense. He had fed the hungry, unemployed, wandering Sadhus but in lieu empowered them with the wisdom never to beg again and earn their livelihood through hard work and share their earnings with the needy thereby being an asset and not a burden to the society. 14 At the place where the true bargain took place, Sacha Sauda Sahib is built. In current day Pakistan the Gurdwara Sacha Sauda is in the city of . The true bargain of life is earning goodness; sharing one’s earning/ knowledge with the needy and helping in whatever way we can. ------20. What message does this incident give us? We should not merely help or serve the needy but also empower them to overcome the handicap and be self reliant in future. ------21. What job did Guru Nanak Dev ji take up at ? The Nawab Daulat Khan appointed him as the store keeper (Modi). ------22. What were the duties and responsibilities of Guru Nanak Dev ji as the ‘Modi’? The farmers paid the tax in the form of their produce. Employees of the government were paid from this produce. To collect and disburse the produce in true measure was the task of the ‘modi’. The leftover produce in the store was sold and the earnings were deposited in the state treasury by the ‘modi’. ------23. What type of a person was required for that post? The job required an honest and efficient person to handle the task. Usually corrupt officers at this post weighed more from the farmers and paid less to the state servants thereby greedily usurping the extra charged and deducted respectively from both sides. ------15 24. What change was observed in the affairs of the store (modikhana)? Guru Nanak Dev ji set all the records in order. The farmers were no longer cheated, nor were the state employees paid less. Complete fairness prevailed in all deals and even the state revenue increased. From his own share as wages, Guru Nanak Dev ji would take only the requisite portion and the rest was kept in the store itself and disbursed to the needy. ------25. What did the corrupt officials do in retaliation and to what result? The corrupt officials, deprived of their extra earnings, plotted to defame and get Guru Nanak Dev ji off the job. They complained to the Nawab that Guru Nanak Dev ji was distributing food grains freely to the poor. This loot would lead to loss in state revenue. The Nawab ordered an inquiry and everything was found correct. This made Guru Nanak Dev ji all the more respectable as an officer and popular among the masses. 26. What do we learn from this incident of the modikhana? Firstly, anything we do must be taken seriously and done in all fairness with the best efforts. Secondly, we should share our honest earnings with the needy as a duty towards humanity. ------27. What does the holy Guru Granth Sahib guide us in this context? xkfb ykfJ feS[ jEj[ d/fJ]BkBe okj[ gSkDfj ;/fJ] ‘Ghaal khaye kichh hatthon dei, nanak raahu pachhaney sei”. (SGGS 1245) He who earns an honest living and shares it with the needy has discovered the true way to higher living. ------16 28. How did Bhai Bhagirath come in contact with Guru Nanak Dev ji? When Guru Nanak Dev ji was at the modikhana, Bhai Bhagirath, a (numberdar) state nominee belonging to Malsihan village used to visit and was so impressed with the serene personality and personal conduct of Guru Nanak Dev ji that he became his disciple. ------29. How did the trader Mansukh happen to meet Bhai Bhagirath? While working at the modikhana, a poor Brahmin requested Guru Nanak Dev ji for help to marry off his daughter. Guru Nanak Dev ji deputed Bhai Bhagirath to buy some necessities from . It was here that Bhai Bhagirath met the trader named Mansukh. ------30. How did this meeting change the life of Mansukh? Mansukh was of the view that all sadhus and saints were idlers and merely duped the common folk. On hearing about the life and ways of Guru Nanak Dev ji from Bhai Bhagirath he was mighty impressed and visited the Guru. He too became an ardent disciple of the Guru. Being a trader he visited far off lands and his earnest ways and simple living impressed all he met. Shivnabh, the king of Sangladeep, modern Sri Lanka, was highly impressed by his virtuous personality and wished to meet his mentor, Guru Nanak Dev ji. ------31. What was the global political scene prevalent during the time of Guru Nanak Dev ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji saw the world suffering out of hatred, fanaticism, falsehood and hypocrisy. There was unrest and insecurity in every corner of India. The ruling class abused, 17 exploited and looted the common man. They lived a life of opulence while there was misery all around. ------32. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji pen down the situation of those times? efb eksh oki/ ek;kJh Xow[ gzy efo T[vfonk] “Kal kaati raje kasai pankh kar udriya”. (SGGS 145) The kalyugi nature is like a dagger and the rulers have become cruel. It seems that dharma has righteousness (dharma) drawn its wings and flown away. ------33. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji describe the loot of the masses by the kings and their courtiers? oki/ ;hj w[edw e[s/] ikfJ irkfJfB- - - p?m/ ;[s/] ukeo Bjdk gkfJfB--- xkT[] os[ fgs[ e[fsj' ufN ikj[] “Raje shinh mukaddam kuttey jaaye jagayan baithey suttey. Chaaker nahda payan ghaau, ratt pitt kutteyho chatte jaahu”. (SGGS 1288). The kings are lions and their courtiers like the dogs that disturb the masses at odd hours. The courtiers act as the claws of the lion to bruise the masses and then these kings lick the blood of the masses through these courtiers. ------34. What do we infer from the description of the times given by Guru Nanak Dev ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji describes the helplessness of the citizens and their exploitation by the rulers. ------35. What was the religious scene that Guru Nanak Dev ji saw around him? Instead of the worshipping the Almighty Lord, the people were wasting their precious lives in futile rites and rituals. Religious 18 leaders were themselves lost to truth and a lot of unethical practices were prevalent in the name of . There was hatred and violence among the people in the name of religious differences. Religion was a tool to exploit and loot the masses. ------36. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji record this degradation of religion? ;ow[ Xow[ d[fJ Sfg yb'J/ e{V[ fco? goXkB[ t/ bkb'] “Saram dharma doey chhap khaloey kood phirai pardhan ve Lalo.” (SGGS 471) The virtues of saram (hard work) and dharma (virtuous living) have vanished and falsehood rules the society. ------37. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji proclaim to the world after he returned from the ‘Bein’ river at Sultanpur Lodhi? Guru Nanak Dev ji proclaimed “na ko hindu na mussalman”. This implies the eternal truth that we are all human beings and the differences of being a Hindu or Muslim are superficial and meaningless. ------38. What was the reaction of Nawab Daulat Khan to this proclamation? He told Guru Nanak Dev ji, (knowing he was born in a Hindu khatri family), “If you don’t make any difference in Hindus and Muslims then come and join me at the masjid for namaz today”. ------39. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji respond to the Nawab’s invitation? Guru Nanak Dev ji promptly accepted the invitation and accompanied the Nawab, the Qazi and other Muslims present to the Masjid. ------19 40. What was Nawab unhappy about after the namaz? The Nawab complained that while all of them were offering namaz Guru Nanak Dev ji stood still and did not join them. ------41. What reason did Guru Nanak Dev ji have for not joining them in the ? Guru Nanak Dev ji had agreed to join the Nawab in offering namaz but stood still instead because the Nawab and even the Qazi were not praying. Elaborating further Guru Nanak Dev ji said that they both were only physically involved in the process here as the Nawab was mentally in Kandhar, buying good horses and the Qazi was thinking that his newborn foal may not fall in the open well dug in his courtyard. So how could he join them? At this both of them felt astounded and ashamed. ------42. What is the significance of this incidence? Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasized that while in or any other task for that matter; we must be involved not merely physically but mentally as well. Else it is nothing more than a ritual and a futile exercise. ------43. What as per Guru Nanak Dev ji is true namaz? gzfi fBtkik tys gzfi gzik gzi/ BkT[] “Panj niwaja vakhat panj panja panje ; gfjbk ;u[ jbkb d[fJ shik y?o y[dkfJ] Pahila sachu, halal dui, teeja khair khudai; uT[Eh Bhnfs okf; wB[ gzith f;cfs ;BkfJ] Chouthi neeyat raas manu, panjvi sifat sanai; eoDh ebwk nkfy e? sk w[;bwkD[ ;dkfJ] Karni kalma aakh kai, ta mussalman sadai”. (SGGS-141) 20 The Muslims offer prayers five times a day and each time a different one with a different name. Guru Nanak Dev ji gives his version of the five namaz as: First – Truth; Second – honest earnings; Third – seeking the welfare of all; Fourth – purity of thought Fifth – appreciating the glory and grace of the Almighty. Imbibing these virtues is the kalma which defines a true Muslim. ------44. What are the journey/tours of Guru Nanak Dev ji for the propagation of truth called? Each of these travels is called “Udassi”. (Odyssey) ------45. What was the purpose behind the extensive travels of Guru Nanak Dev ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji travelled extensively; 1. Meeting people, to deliver humanity suffering from falsehood by guiding them to the light of truth. 2. To look for and meet enlightened souls living earnestly in the light of truth. ------46. Who accompanied Guru Nanak Dev ji on his travels? Bhai Mardana ji with his rebec (a medieval string instrument like a violin but having a pear shaped body, called rabaab), accompanied Guru ji. fJe pkpk nekb o{g[ d{ik opkph wodkBk. “Ikk Baba Akaal roop doojaa rabaabi Mardana” (Bhai Gurdas vaar 1-35) ------21 47. How does the great scholar Bhai Gurdas comment on the travels of Guru Nanak Dev ji? pkpk d/y? fXnkB Xfo ibsh ;fG fgqEth fdf; nkJh. “Baba dekhai dhiyan dhar. Jalti sabh prithvi dis aayee. pkMj[ r[o{ r[pko j? j? j? eodh ;[Dh b[ekJh. Bajhou guru gubaar hai, hai hai kardi suni lokaee. pkp/ G/y pDkfJnk T[dk;h eh ohfs ubkJh. Babey bhekh banaya udassi ki reet chalayee. ufVQQnk ;'XfD Xofs b[ekJh] Chadiya sodhan dhart lokayee” He means to say that when Guru Nanak Dev ji saw with empathy the world around he found that the whole creation was embroiled in the fire of vices. Without the guiding light all was engulfed in darkness of ignorance and could feel the people crying for help. He put on the guise of an ascetic and set out to heal the world. This was a trendsetting decision/ event for future generations to emulate by leaving their comfort zone to serve humanity. ------48. What made the travels of Guru Nanak Dev ji unique? It is natural for the thirsty to seek and go to a well but Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s travels were unique in the sense that it was he who sought the needy and went to them to quench their thirst, travelling thousands of miles in the process, to different parts of the world, spreading the light of truth. Guru Nanak Dev ji is believed to have travelled more than 28000 miles from 1500 AD to 1524 AD. ------49. What problems would Guru Nanak Dev ji have to face while embarking upon such a journey? Guru Nanak Dev ji must have envisaged that exposing the excesses and wrongs of the ruling class would invite their wrath; getting the subdued and dejected people to rise and 22 oppose oppression would amount to revolt in the system. The challenges of travelling thousands of miles on foot through unknown lands, jungles, deserts or mountains and different people, cultures, languages at all were not simple either. Despite all this he was determined to go for the human welfare. ------50. How many such travels () did Guru Nanak Dev ji undertake? There is a controversy regarding the number of Udasis undertaken by Guruji among the historians. On the basis of the Puratan Janam Sakhi and the Vars of Bhai Gurdas, some historians claim the number of Udasis undertaken by Guruji is four whereas some historians claim it to be five in number. But Dr. Fauja Singh and Dr. claim the number of udasis as three though the places of visit are the same in all cases. ------51. Which important places are recorded to have been visited by Guru Nanak Dev ji during the first udasis? Sultanpur, (now Makhdumpur in district , Pakistan), , Nanak Matta (district Nainital, Uttarkhand), Tanda Vanraja (district Rampur), Kamrup (Assam), Aasa desh Des (Assam), Saidpur (Eaimnabad), Parsur, (Pakistan), Dhanasari ghaati, Sangladeep (Sri Lanka), Kashmir, Sumer Parbat, Tashkent, Nepal, Sikkim, etc. were the main places he visited during his travels. He also visited , the holy place of Muslims and various Arab countries which are on record. ------52. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji embark on his first ? First udasi was from September 1508 AD up to 1515 AD (as per eminent historian and theologian Prof. ). ------23 53. What sort of places did he visit and what was special about his plan of the tour? He visited the sites of Hindu pilgrimage and planned his tour such that he reached there at the festival time of that site and maximum number of would gather there. ------54. Why did Indian sadhus wear deep saffron coloured robes? This colour suited them as they were constantly on the move and washing and cleaning regularly was not possible. Even soiled robes did not look dirty in this colour. Gradually with time this colour got recognition as the colour for religious people. ------55. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji manage to communicate with people of different languages? Guru Nanak Dev ji was formally trained in Persian and Sanskrit during childhood. Secondly, the ascetics in India and even beyond had developed a common language “sadh bhasha” which included words from various languages and dialects. Thirdly, Guru Nanak Dev ji used to travel only a few miles daily and halted at every village on the way, talking to people and thus got acquainted with new vocabulary which he imbibed and used in his discourses. ------56. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji carry on his udasis? ‘Awsw hiQ ikqwb kiC ...... ’ ‘Aasa hath kitab kachh’ (Bhai Gurdas vaar) Bhai Gurdas writes that Guru Nanak Dev ji always held a staff in his hand and carried a notebook under his arm. He would record his hymns in it and also would record the hymns of other worthy saints. ------24 57. What lesson did Guru Nanak Dev ji bless Duni Chand with? Duni Chand was a millionaire of khatri caste in Lahore. He invited Guru Nanak Dev ji and other religious sadhus of the area for the lunch, as was customary, for the ‘shradh’ ceremony of his late father. Guru Sahib explained to him that it was a futile ritual as the food and the gifts would not benefit his dead father in any way. It is necessary that we serve well our living parents and the other needy people to be blessed by the almighty. ------58. Can you cite a quote from gurbani in this context? ihts fgso B wkB? eT{o w{J/A f;okX eokjh] “Jeevat pitar na mane kou muey siradh karayee” (Bhakt Kabeer ji, SGGS 332). It means “people don’t respect and serve their parents when They are alive but host ‘shradh’ lunches and donate a lot in their name after death. How will this food and gifts reach the dead? ------59. What can man get at the Lord’s court? BkBe nr? ;o fwb? fi yN/ xkb/ d/fJ] “Nanak aggey so milai je khattey ghaley dey”. (SGGS 472) O’ Nanak there he will get only the outcome of what he has earned and given to the world. No one else can support him there. ------60. What lesson do we learn from the quote above? We should abstain from futile rituals as directed by the Guru. Anything such as cots, clothes, utensils etc. donated in the memory of the deceased with the belief that it will reach the dead is senseless and should be stopped. ------25 61. “Lahore sahar zahar kaher sava pahar”, (SGGS 1410). What does Guru Nanak Dev ji mean by this? bkj"o ;jo[ ijo[ ejo[ ;tk gjo[] This quote has a historical connect that when Guru Nanak Dev ji reached the city of Lahore he observed that the rulers and the people there were engulfed in unethical and inhuman activities. They were oblivious to the grace of the Almighty God. The city of Lahore was like poison for the lifestyle there brought spiritual death to its residents. The mornings which should have been devoted to prayers and to seek the blessings of God for a meaningful life were spent in killing animals for delicious meals. A life of leisure and luxury devoid of ethics and values was prevalent there. After this, in 1524 AD, Babar, the Mogul, invaded Hindustan and set the city on fire which burned for a quarter of the day. This incident is recorded in Tuzak-e-Babri. ------62. “Lahore sahar amrit sar sifti da ghar”. (SGGS 1412). What does this verse indicate? bkj"o ;jo[ nzfwqs ;o[ f;csh dk xo[] This verse has been quoted by the third Nanak, Guru Amardass. Guru Nanak Dev ji had in his time preached and promoted a culture of ethics and human values. There were gatherings (sangats) and people sat singing in praise of the Almighty God. Much had changed in the lifestyle of the people after the visit of Guru Nanak Dev ji. Guru Amardass, on seeing people in prayer, singing praises of the Lord and leading a noble life, said that if earlier the city was like poison to its citizens, now it was like a pool of nectar. ------26 63. With whom did Guru Nanak Dev ji stay at Saidpur (Eminabad)? Starting from Sultanpur Lodhi first of all he came to Saidpur (Eminabad). There Guruji chose to stay at the humble dwelling of a very poor carpenter, . ------64. Why did Guru Nanak Dev ji choose to stay at Bhai Lalo’s place? Bhai Lalo, his wife Bhagwanti and their two children lived in poverty but Bhai Lalo earned his living with hard work and honest means. He had a spiritual bent of mind but being a ‘low caste’, he was not allowed the company of the learned. He prayed for someone to help him unite with the Almighty. Answering his prayers Guru Nanak Dev ji not only chose to stay with him, he blessed Lalo with true knowledge and honored him as a preacher for the region. ------65. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji do to uplift the socially opressed classes in society? Guru Nanak Dev ji raised his voice in support of the downtrodden. Bhuk nzdfo Bhu ikfs Bhuh j{ nfs Bhu[] “Neechan andar neech jaat, neechie hu att neech; BkBe[ fsB e? ;zfr ;kfE tfvnk f;T[ fenk oh;] Nanak tin ke sang saath vadhian siyo kiya rees”. (SGGS 15). Meaning: O’ Lord, Nanak seeks the company of the lowest of the low class, the very lowest of the low; why should he try to compete with the ‘high’? ------66. What benefits does Guru Nanak Dev ji guarantee to those who care for the underpriviledged? fiE? Bhu ;wkbhnfB fsE? Bdfo s/oh py;h;] 27 “Jitthey neech sambhaliyan titthey nader teri bakhshish”. (SGGS 15) Guru Nanak Dev ji declares that “The Lord Almighty showers his blessings where the underprivileged are taken care of”. ------67. Who was the rich landlord of Saidpur who had invited Guru Nanak Dev ji to a feast? Malik Bhago invited Guru Nanak Dev ji to the feast. ------68. Who was Malik Bhago? Malik Bhago (Bhag Mall) was an official of the Nawab of Saidpur. He had hoisted a grand feast as a ritual in the memory of his ancestors and invited ascetics and saints of the region. ------69. Did Guru Nanak Dev ji accept his invitation? Guru Nanak Dev ji refused to accept food from Malik Bhago because he had earned his livelihood throughout by corruption and cheating. ------70. How did Malik Bhago react to Guru Nanak Dev ji’s response to his invitation? He ordered his guards to bring Guru Nanak Dev ji forcibly to his place. ------71. What did Malik Bhago say when he saw Guru Nanak Dev ji? On seeing Guru Nanak Dev ji having been forced to come, Malik Bhago was furious and remarked, “You are eating the dry bread made of ‘kodhra’ at the poor carpenter’s. Don’t you like the variety and delicious food offered here”? ------28 72. What does ‘kodhra’ mean? It’s a type of grass. Its seed is crushed to powder and used to make bread by the poor folk instead of wheat. ------73. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji reply to Malik Bhago’s query? Guru Nanak Dev ji calmly replied, “The bread at poor Lalo’s house was baked out of honest labour and thus is like nectar and fulfilling. Your delicacies come from dishonest means and loot and plunder of the common man. I can see blood and sweat of the poor people in it. By donating a part of this ill gotten wealth to the saints it doesn’t get sanctified. Such a feast cannot be termed as a religious act.” ------74. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say to the sadhus attending the feast? Addressing the ascetics present there Guru Nanak Dev ji said, “The seeds of Babool (kikkar) tree are very soft but the tree bears thorns right from the beginning. Similarly the feast prepared out of ill gotten wealth seems delicious to eat but will have a damaging impact on the noble hearts.” ------75. What impact did the incident have on Malik Bhago? Malik Bhago promised to earn honestly henceforth and also started propagating the message of the Guru. ------76. What do we learn from this incident? Donations or service from ill gotten wealth through corrupt means is not acceptable at the altar of the Almighty Lord. ------77. How does Gurbani warn us from usurping what rightly belongs to others? je[ gokfJnk BkBek T[;[ ;{no T[;[ rkfJ] 29 “Haq paraya Nanaka us sooar us gaaye. r[o[ gho[ jkwk sk Go/ ik w[odko[ B ykfJ] Gur peer haama ta bharey ja murdaar na khaaye”. (SGGS 141) Meaning: usurping the rights of others is like eating pork for the Muslim and eating beef for the Hindu (forbidden by their respective ). Even Guru for the Hindus and Pir for the Muslims will stand in testimony only for such people who do not usurp others’ rights. ------78. What advice did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the rulers? i/ os[ br? egV? ikwk j'fJ gbhs[] “Je ratt laggey kapadey jama hoey paleet. i' os[ ghtfj wkD;k fsB feT[ fBowb[ uhs[] Jo ratt peevey maansa tin kio nirmal cheet. BkBe BkT[ y[dkfJ ek fdfb jS? w[fy b/j[] Nanak nao khudai ka dil hachhai mukh lehu”. (SGGS 140) Meaning: if blood stains make the cloth impure and cannot offer namaz wearing those then those who live on the earnings of others and are like parasites sucking the blood of the society then how can the heart of such people be deemed to be pure and fit for offering namaz? Nanak says recite the name of the holy Lord with a pure heart. ------79. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji establish the first dharmshala? The first dharamshala was established at Saidpur and Bhai Lalo was its first sewadar. But according to some historians it was at Tulumba. ------80. Does Dharmshala signify the name of a building? Not necessarily building, it could be a place (an open space) 30 where the Guru’s message could be delved upon collectively and singing hymns in praise of the Creator. ------81. Who is a dharmshalia? He who would coordinate the congregation of people at the dharmshala was called a dharmshalia. He would have to be a person of high moral character. ------82. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji define ‘Satsang’, the holy congregation? ;s;zrfs e?;h ikDhn?] fiE? J/e' Bkw[ tykDhn?] ‘Satsangat kaisi janiae; jitthey aeiko naam vakhaniye’, (SGGS 72) Guru Sahib first plants a question as to what sort of a congregation can be called a holy congregation. Then he clarifies that such a congregation is holy where only the holy name of the Creator, the almighty lord is recited; only His praises are sung. ------83. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji reach ? He reached Haridwar on day when it is festival time and pilgrims from all over gather there. ------84. To whom did Guru Nanak Dev ji send Mardana to get some fire? Bhai Mardana went to a Vaishnav sadhu as instructed by the Guru. ------85. Why was the sadhu disturbed on the coming of Bhai Mardana? The sadhu, as per the ritual, had purified his cooking place by a coat of cow dung but when Bhai Mardana went there his 31 shadow fell on the cooking place. Bhai Mardana was considered a low caste by birth and the sadhu felt his cooking place had been defiled because of this. He got very upset and ran after Bhai Mardana threatening to hit him with a burning wood in his hand. ------86. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say to pacify and educate the sadhu? The Lord Almighty does not care for the outer purity of the food court. He resides in the heart and so the purity of the heart is the necessity. If the heart is filled with cruelty, hatred, anger and ill will for others then such a heart is not a suitable place that God likes. See the Creator in the whole creation. Don’t look towards anyone as of inferior caste and hate him. ------87. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji recite at this time to bless the sadhu with wisdom? e[p[fX v{wDh e[dfJnk e;kfJfD go fBzdk xN u{jVh w[mh e'qfX uzvkfb] ‘Kubudhh doomanee kudaeiaa kasaaein par nindaa ghatt chooharee muthee chandaal. ekoh eYh fenk Ehn? iK uko/ p?mhnk Bkfb] Kaaree kaddhee kiaa thheeai ja chaarae baitheeaa naal’. (SGGS 91) False-mindedness is the drummer woman; cruelty is the butcheress; Slander of others in one’s heart is the cleaning- woman; and deceitful anger is the outcast-woman. What good are the ceremonial lines drawn around your kitchen, when these four are seated there with you? ------88. What is the message the Guru gives through the meaning of the above hymn? The so-called upper castes hated the so called low castes to 32 the extent that they felt defiled even by their shadow if cast upon them. Guru Sahib explains that man is not low by birth but by the evil he does. So the evil thoughts are the mirassan (a low caste name), heartlessness is the butcheress; others’ slander in the heart is a sweepress and deceitful wrath is a pariah-woman. What does drawing lines for purity on food court avail thee when these four are seated within your heart? ------89. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say to the people gathered there? Guru Sahib said that alongwith outer cleanliness the purity of heart with human values and ethics is very important. God loves those who shun evil and nurture good values and lead a life of high moral character. “Truth is above all; truthful living is higher still”. (SGGS 62) ------90. Should we ask anybody his caste? ikDj[ i'fs B g{Sj[ iksh nkr? ikfs B j/] “jaanahu jot n pooshhahu jaatee aagai jaat n hae”.(SGGS 349) Recognise the Lord’s light within all and inquire not the caste, as there is no caste in the Lord’s court. ------91. Who is a low-caste as per Gurbani? y;w[ ft;kofj s/ ewikfs] BkBe Bkt? pkM[ ;Bkfs] “Khasam visaaarehi te kamjaat; Nanak naavai baajh sanaat”. (SGGS 10). Vile are they who forget their Master. O Nanak! Without God’s name, men are out caste wretches. ------92. What message does this hymn give us? We should never differentiate between people on the basis of so called castes and creeds. ------33 93. In which direction were the pilgrims offering water at the Kumbh festival at Haridwar? The pilgrims were offering towards the rising sun; the east direction. ------94. What was their intention in doing so? They believed that this water would reach the spirits of their dead ancestors and benefit them. ------95. What did Guru do on seeing this activity? Without talking to anybody Guru Nanak Dev ji quietly started offering water in the opposite direction, towards the west. ------96. What was the reaction of the pilgrims and how did Guru Nanak Dev ji justify his act? The pundits (priests) were shocked to see this act of the Guru and inquired as to why he was doing so. Instead of giving an answer Guru Nanak Dev ji counter questioned them as to what they were doing. To this the pundits replied that they were offering water to their dead in the ether world. Guru Nanak Dev ji then calmly replied that he was offering water to his crops in Talwandi. The pundits mocked at him for his ignorance. Guru Nanak Dev ji asked them as to how far the ether world was. A learned pandit promptly replied that it was 409, 500, 0000 Kos (1 Kos =3,075m). Now Guru Nanak Dev ji explained that if his water could not reach a few hundred Kos then their offering would not reach that far. ------97. By this interaction what message does Guru Nanak Dev ji give to humanity? False beliefs and baseless rituals, without any reason and logic, are futile exercises and we should desist from such activities. ------34 98. What is unique about Guru Nanak Dev ji’s interaction? Guru Nanak Dev ji is unwavering on truth and dares to propagate it everywhere and anywhere and in any circumstances but he does so in a very subtle way such as the occasion, the timing, the tone and the temperament, all mixed with reason and empathy, synchronize so well that he is readily accepted and adored. ------99. What do we observe from the above incident? Where one needs to have a deep understanding of truth and the guts to stand by it, one also needs the proper way to propagate it effectively in the world. Truth never hurts; if communicated properly. Truth heals. ------100. Which place did Guru Nanak Dev ji visit after moving from Haridwar? Gorakh Matta ------101. What were the reasons of the influence of the jogis on the people? The people believed that due to their , the jogis had acquired super powers. Some served them expecting special blessings while others for the fear of their curse. ------102. What false belief was prevalent at Gorakh Matta? The rulers of this area killed humans who were travelers or brought from adjoining regions at the sacrificial altar believing that it would please the goddess Chandi. ------103. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji preach to those people? Let the Creator of the whole universe be the focus of your prayers. To please Him you will have to see Him manifested 35 in all His creation and then it is mandatory that you love all the creation to please Him. God does not need any such sacrifices. ------104. What was the method stressed by the jogis for emancipation of man? The jogis professed tough body postures in meditation for long hours, smearing of ash on the body, piercing the ears and renunciation of family life. They would blow the conch shell and beg for food and considered all this the best way of life. ------105. What hymn did Guru Nanak Dev ji recite to refute the claims of this lifestyle? i'r[ B fyzEk i'r[ B vzv? i'r[ B G;w uVkJhn?] “Jog n khinthha jog n dandai jog n bhasam charraaeeai; i'r[ B w[zdh w{zfv w[vkfJn? i'r[ B f;zCh tkJhn?] Jog n mundhee moond mudaaeiai jog n singee vaaeeai; …… i'r[ B pkjfo wVh w;kDh i'r[ B skVh bkJhn?] Jog n baahar marree masaanee jog n taarri laaeeai i'r B d/f; fd;zsfo Gftn? i'r[ B shofE BkJhn?] Jog n des disantar bhaviai jog n tirath naaeeai.” (SGGS 730) ------106. What is the message inherent in the above hymn? Wearing tattered clothes, holding a staff in hand, smearing the body with ash, piercing ears and wearing ear rings , shearing off the head or blowing the conch shell do not unite you with God. Similarly living in graveyards, meditating in different postures, roaming to far off places and bathing at sites of pilgrimage does not bring you closer to God. ------36 107. What way did Guru Nanak Dev ji suggest to realize God? nziB wkfj fBozifB ojhn? i'r i[rfs sT[ gkJhn?] “Anjun maahi niranjan raheeai jog jugat tao paaeeai.” (SGGS 730) Meaning: Abide purely amidst the worldly impurities, don’t be obsessed by materials even though not renouncing them; thus you shall find the way to ‘jog’ i.e. union with God. ------108. What symbols did the jogis wear as a sect? Glass ear rings, begging bowl, loose cloth bag for storing the offerings, a patched coat made of rags, a walking stick in hand and the body smeared with ash. ------109. What substitutions did Guru Nanak Dev ji suggest to them instead? w[zdk ;zs'y[ ;ow[ gs[ M'bh fXnkB eh eofj fpG{fs] “Mundha santokh saram pat jholee dhian ki karehi bibhoot; fyzEk ekb[ e[nkoh ekfJnk i[rfs vzvk goshfs] Khinthha kaal kuaaree kaaeiaaa jugat danddaa parteet”. (SGGS 6) Make contentment your ear rings; hard work your begging bowl and focus (concentration) the ash that you apply to your body. Let the remembrance of death (end) be the patched coat, a healthy body free of vices be your technique and let faith in the Lord be your walking stick. Imbibe these virtues instead of the external physical symbols and you shall be enlightened. ------110. How do these substitutions help in leading a blissful life? Contentment leads to an equilibrium state of mind (sehaj) 37 which is a pre condition to sound thinking. Hard work is required to put the good thoughts into action. Focus in the work at hand accomplishes the task effectively. Keep the end (death) in mind and one does not indulge in meaningless distractions. Physical fitness supports the realization of the mental plans. Unflinching Belief in the Creator supports in tough times and overcome hurdles. Thus a meaningful and blissful life can be lived. ------111. What does ‘Aaiee panthi’ mean in the jogi cult? Jogi sect is classified into 12 levels and ‘Aaiee panth’ denotes the highest level. ------112. Who does Guru Nanak Dev ji consider to be of the ‘Aaiee panth’? nkJh gzEh ;rb iwksh wfB ihs? ir[ ihs[] ‘Aaiee panthee sagal jamaati…’ (SGGS 6) He who considers the whole creation as his own and equal, belongs to the ‘aaiee panth’ as per Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------113. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji advise the jogis on using the super powers? Indulgence in showing off super powers (riddhi siddhi) acquired through meditation distracts you from realizing higher spiritual levels. A life bereft of love and service to the almighty God is a life wasted. ------114. What was the impact of Guru’s message there? Many jogis were impressed by Guru Nanak Dev ji’s advice and resolved to live the rest of their lives as ordained by him and preach his message. People of the region who served the jogis out of fear were enlightened and empowered and 38 stopped pampering the jogis. So the jogis left the place. Guru Nanak Dev ji established a dharmshala and people would congregate to delve over the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji and sing praises of the Almighty God. The place got renamed from ‘Gorakh Matta’ to ‘Nanak Matta’. ------115. What do we learn from this incident? Real jog () of human life is to live in synchronization with the laws of nature, earning an honest living, sharing the assets with others, treating all humans as equals and thanking the Creator for all His gifts. ------116. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji reach Prayag? He reached Prayag in mid January, on the first day (sangraand) of the magh (a month as per the Bikrami calendar). It is a place of confluence of three rivers and on this day bathing at this place was considered auspicious and would free from the cycle of rebirth. So a huge number of pilgrims would gather here on this day. ------117. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the pilgrims present there for the holy dip? Guru Nanak Dev ji advised them that mere bathing in the rivers would not wash away their sins and free them from the cycle of rebirth. Bathing merely washes your body but not the mind (soul). ------118. Which alternative did Guru Nanak Dev ji suggest them? shofE BktD ikT[ shoE[ Bkw[ j?] “Teerathh naavan jaao teerathh naam hai; 39 shoE[ ;pd phuko[ nzsfo frnkB[ j?] Teerath sabad beechaar antar giyaan hai.” (SGGS 687). Meaning: The Naam, the name of the Lord is the sacred shrine of pilgrimage to bathe in. My sacred shrine of pilgrimage is the spiritual wisdom within, and contemplation of the Word of the Sabad. Simply put; Singing the Lord’s praises washes clean the soul. That is the real bathing for pilgrims. ------119. What is the purpose behind installation of pools (sarowars) and wells (baoli)? Bathing in pools and using water from wells is open to all and gives the message of equality and universal brotherhood. ------120. What according to Gurbani is true bathing? ;kuk BktD[ r[o eh ;/tk] ‘Saacha naavan gur ki ’. (SGGS 484) Living a life as per the directions of the Guru is the real bathing that emancipates. ------121. What method did Guru Nanak Dev ji reveal to wash out the negativity of the mind? Gohn? wfs gkgk e? ;zfr] Uj[ X'g? Bkt? e? ozfr] ‘Bhariae matt paapan ke sang; oh dhopae naavae kai rang’. (SGGS 4) If the human mind gets corrupted with malicious thoughts then it can be washed to purity by imbueing the holy ‘Naam’, which is reciting the praises of the Almighty God. ------122. What false belief was propagated in Prayag to loot the pilgrims by the shrewd priests? There was a banyan tree, which they called called ‘Akshay 40 vat’, meaning indestructible tree, It was propagated that whosoever donated his all belongings and fell to death from this tree would attain immortality. ------123. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji clear the pilgrims of this misconception? Guru Nanak Dev ji explained to the pilgrims that this misdeed and falsehood was propagated by unholy imposters to loot the common man such that in search of immortality one would willingly give all he had and then commit suicide. The pilgrims could now see through the plan. ------124. What did the pilgrims ask Guru Nanak Dev ji? They asked Guru Nanak Dev ji why they could not relish worship and prayer. ------125. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in response? o;[ ;[fJBk o;[ o[gk ekwfD o;[ gowb eh tk;[] ‘Rass suina rass roopa kaaman rass parmal ki vaas; o;[ x'V/ o;[ ;/ik wzdo o;[ whmk o;[ wk;[] Rass ghode rass seja mandar rass meethha rass maas; J/s/ o; ;oho e/ e? xfN Bkw fBtk;[] Eatae ras sareer ke kai ghatt naam nivaas.’ (SGGS 15) Guru Nanak Dev ji replied: The pleasures of gold and silver, the pleasures of women, the pleasure of the fragrance of sandalwood, the pleasure of horses, of a soft bed in a palace, of sweet treats and the pleasure of hearty meals; these pleasures of the human body are so numerous; how can Naam, the name of the Lord, find its dwelling in the heart? ------41 126. Should worldly things be renounced to attain the pleasure of Naam? No. Guru Nanak Dev ji says it’s not the worldly materials and relations that need to be renounced but the obsession of these which needs to be avoided. He explains that as the lotus flower grows in a pond of filthy water but remains untouched by the filth similarly while living the normal life of a householder and using the entire materials one should not be obsessed by any of these and stay aloof. As is commonly said, “we should eat to live not live to eat”. ------127. What is the other name of Banaras? Kaashi. ------128. What misconceptions were prevelant in Kashi? It was propagated that he who died in Kashi would be liberated. He who donates all his belongings and get himself cut to pieces by the saw installed there would go straight to ‘shivpuri’, Heaven. ------129. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji convey to the people there? It is by nurturing love for the Creator and the creation, living a truthful life by adopting humane virtues and shunning vices that one can attain liberation. He cautioned them against the ulterior motives of the priests and the futility of the sacrificial saw. ------130. What impact did Guru Nanak Dev ji’s message have on the pundits (priests)? The pundits felt that Guru Nanak Dev ji was exposing their 42 plot and preaching to the people the simple, easy and inexpensive way to salvation. This would adversely affect their income. They were jealous of Guru Nanak Dev ji and tried to oppose him under the leadership of a pandit by the name Chatur Das. ------131. What advice did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the pundits? Carrying out futile rituals, which have no spiritual impact, in the name of religion is like irrigating barren land which yields nothing. Don’t waste your valuable life in such rituals and live a life of honesty and service to humanity instead. ------132. Who were the saints whose hymns Guru Nanak Dev ji collected from Kashi? Guru Nanak Dev ji met the followers of Bhakt Kabeer ji and Bhakt Ravidass ji and collected their compositions. Apart from this Guru Nanak Dev ji also collected one hymn each composed by Bhakt Ramanand ji, Bhakt Sain ji and Bhakt Peepa ji from Kashi. ------133. Where is the town of Gaya situated? What were the beliefs prevalent in the people there? Gaya is situated on the banks of Falgu river in Bihar state. The people there donated kneaded flour balls (called pind) to the pandits for the liberation of their dead ancestors. The pandit doing the service was also given gifts. ------134. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji advise the people there? Guru Nanak Dev ji asked them, “How long would your ancestors survive with four kneaded flour balls (pind) donated after a year?” Guru Nanak Dev ji explained to them that no ritual on earth could benefit the soul of the dead. So burning 43 lamps, breaking earthen pitchers, hoisting feasts for priests etc. are useless and wasteful expenditure and should be stopped. ------135. What was the purpose behind burning lamps? When a person was breathing his last he was laid on the floor and a burning lamp was placed on his palm assuming that the soul may have to travel through unknown dark lanes and will benefit by the light of the lamp. ------136. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji nullify this belief? dhtk w/ok J/e[ Bkw[ d[y[ ftfu gkfJnk s/b[] “Deeva mera ek Naam dukh vicch paaia tel ; T[fB ukBfD Uj[ ;'fynk u{ek iw f;T[ w/b[] Un chanan ohu soukhia chooka jamm siyo mel.” (SGGS 358) The Naam of the Lord is the lamp for me which renders spiritual light in my life. I have put my sufferings in it as oil which burn in the spiritual illumination and I have escaped my meeting with the masssenger of death. ------137. How should the dead body be disposed off such that the person gets liberated? fJe dMfj fJe dphnfj fJeBk e[s/ ykfj] “ik dajhhe ik ddabbiai ikkna kuttey khahey; fJfe gkDh ftfu T[;Nhnfj fJfe Gh fcfo j;fD gkfj] Ik paani vich ushtiae ikki bhi phire Hassan paahe; BkBe J/t B ikgJh feE? ikfJ ;wkfj] Nanak ev n jaapaee kitthey jaaie samahey.” (SGGS 648) Nanak says that some burn their dead, some bury, some dead are savoured by dogs, and some dispose them in flowing water while some put them in dry wells. But no one knows ultimately 44 where the soul goes. Thus the way one disposes off the dead body doesn’t have any bearing on the soul. ------138. Presently where does the area of Kamrup lie? Kamrup is an area on the border of Bhutan in Assam State of India. ------139. Which cult of meditation was prevalent there? The ‘Vaam Maarg’ cult was prevalent in Kamrup region. They propagated the fulfillment of desires as a way of overcoming distractions in union with God. This promoted all sorts of vices and brazen disrespect of the social fabric. Non , alcoholism, prostitution were regarded as acceptable and religious activities. One of these, by the name Keena Ram, started the ‘Aghori’ cult which promoted feeding on human defecation. Human skulls were collected from cremation grounds and used as utensils to eat and drink considering it to be auspicious. ------140. What was the impact of the Vaam Maargis on the society? They propagated their ideology from their temples which they called ‘Yonipeeth’. The value of human life got degraded and human sacrifices became prevalent. The rulers would capture humans from adjoining territories and kill them as sacrificial offerings in front of the idols of the goddess Kali and such others. Gradually the heads of even small ethnic groups started this practice. ------141. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji organize the people to check the unholy practices of the Vaam Margis? As Guru Nanak Dev ji travelled from towards Guwahati 45 the impact of Vaam Maargis was on the rise. He preached in the affected villages for six months. The sweet music of the rabaab (Rebec) enchanted the people and they came to the Guru’s congregation. Gradually they shunned addiction of intoxicants and also other unethical and characterless activities adhering to the Guru’s advice. ------142. What message these anecdotes have for the modern youth? The Youth should not get entrapped in the consumerist attitude under the influence of the market forces and adhere to social ethics and moral values. A life of honest earning, sharing, sacrifice and love for fellow humans and in gratitude of the Creator only can be blissful and fulfilling; not the “Khao piyo aish karo” attitude. ------143. Who was the lady expert in witchcraft Guru Nanak Dev ji encountered at Dhanpur? Noor Shah was her name and she ruled the area. ------144. How did she treat Guru Nanak Dev ji? She tried to subdue Guru Nanak Dev ji through her skill of witchcraft but in vain. ------145. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji do in response? When she had tried her best and failed to have any impact on Guru Nanak Dev ji , then he lovingly explained to her that she was misusing her powers. “This world is already full of humans behaving as animals. Instead of making normal humans behave as animals, if you use your skills for their uplift those misguided people you could be blessed by the Lord.” ------46 146. What was the impact of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s words on Noor Shah? Noor Shah was captivated by the empathetic words and understood the Guru’s message. She was a transformed person and resolved to serve humanity. Her house now became a dharmshala, a place of religious congregation where she preached the message of Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------147. Where did Bhoomia meet Guru Nanak Dev ji? He met Guru Nanak Dev ji in one of the congregations in Assam. ------148. How did Bhoomia get introduced to Guru Nanak Dev ji? In one of the congregations which Bhoomia attended, he was very impressed by the hallowed personality of Guru Nanak Dev ji . So at the end of the session he requested Guru Nanak Dev ji to accompany him to his house. Guru Nanak Dev ji agreed and when he offered meals to Guru Nanak Dev ji and Bhai Mardana, the Guru asked him about his job and how he earned his livelihood. He then confessed that he was a thief and did not do anything else for a living. ------149. What was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s response to this confession of his? Guru Nanak Dev ji refused to accept any food at his house. Bhoomia pleaded in all and Guru Nanak Dev ji agreed on the condition that he would never again commit theft and earn an honest living. ------150. Did Bhoomia accept Guru Nanak Dev ji’s condition? No. He pleaded that he knew no others means of earning 47 and be exempted of this condition. But he assured that he would gladly obey any other orders of the Guru. ------151. What other options did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to Bhoomia? Guru Nanak Dev ji considered his request and further laid down three conditions to be followed in lieu of permission for theft. 1. Don’t loot the poor 2. Don’t tell a lie 3. Stay true to him whose salt you eat. Bhoomia earnestly agreed to comply with these three conditions. ------152. What happened to Bhoomia after this meeting with the Guru? Bhoomia stopped stealing from the poor. He planned to steal from the king’s palace. Wearing good attire he went to the palace. The gatekeepers inquired about his visit. He realized his commitment of not telling a lie. He stated truthfully, “I’m a thief and I’ve come to steal from the palace”. ------153. What was the gatekeepers’ reaction to Bhoomia’s statement? They thought that he was someone close to the king and just joking with them. They respectfully allowed him in. ------154. What did Bhoomia do after getting in the palace? Bhoomia hid himself in the palace and at night, when all were asleep, he started collecting all valuables he could find and tied them in a large cloth.Just as he was about to leave with his bounty he saw a golden plate. There was some powdery substance in it and out of curiosity he tasted it. It turned out to 48 be salt. He realized his commitment to Guru Nanak Dev ji and left the palace without the bounty he had compiled to steal. ------155. What was the King’s reaction to the news of the attempted theft in the palace? Though nothing was taken away but the fact, that the thief could enter the palace, was in itself a challenge. The king’s men rounded up some notorious men and started beating them to get someone to confess. When Bhoomia came to know that innocents were suffering because of him, he presented himself before the king and confessed. The king was surprised. When Bhoomia told him about his promise to Guru Nanak Dev ji, the king was pleased with his honesty and commitment. He instead honored and rewarded him. ------156. What change did come in Bhoomia’s life after this incident? He realized that by abiding the Guru’s advice just once he was feeling highly honored for the first time in his life. If he lived the rest of his life as directed by the Guru his life could be blissful. He resolved never to steal again. ------157. What do we learn from the life story of Bhoomia? It is important in the first place to introspect and admit one’s shortcomings. Then keeping good company and honestly trying with baby steps, the worst of habits can be got rid of. ------158. Quote a hymn of the Guru in this context. ;kM eohi? r[Dj e/oh S'fv ntrD ubhn?] “Saanjh kareejai gunai keree, chhod avgun challeeai”. (SGGS 766) 49 Look for and share virtues and ignore/shun the vices in others. In this way one can gradually gain virtues and easily weed out the vices and lead a virtuous life. ------159. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji proceed from Assam? From Assam Guru Nanak Dev ji proceeded to Jagan Puri through . It was in Bengal that he collected the hymns of Bhakt Jaidev. ------160. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji recite the true ‘Aarti’ of the Lord? At Jagan Nath Puri. ------161. What is this true cosmic “Aarti” (adulation) of the almighty Lord? rrB w? Ekb[ oft uzd[ dhge pB/ skfoek wzvb iBe w'sh] “Gagan meh thhaal rav chandd Deepak baney Taarika mandal janak moti ; X{g wbnkBb' gtD[ uto' eo/ ;rb pBokfJ {bzs i'sh] dhoop maliaanlo pawan chavro karey sagal banrai foolantt joti.” (SGGS 663) ------162. What does the above hymn (Aarti) mean? Upon that cosmic plate of the sky, the sun and the moon are the lamps. The stars and their orbs are the studded pearls. The fragrance of sandalwood in the air is temple incense, and the wind is the fan. All the plants of the world are the altar flowers in offering to You, O Luminous Lord. ------50 163. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji convey by this hymn at Jagan Nath Puri? The ritual of adulation (Aarti) of the Creator of the cosmos, the Lord Almighty by placing some lamps in a plate and a few other materials in the temples by the priests is futile and unworthy of Him. He will be pleased only if human beings lived a life in accordance with the eternal natural laws (). Everything in the Nature, working in his will, was an apt adulation of His Highness. ------164. What did the Nobel Laurate Rabinder Nath Tagore say about this hymn? He translated it in Bengali and declared that it was the “Cosmic Anthem”. ------165. What was the name of the Pandit whom Guru Nanak Dev ji met at Jagan Nath Puri? His name was Kaliyug. ------166. What did Kaliyug do to befool the pilgrims? He pretended to sit in deep meditation and proclaimed that he could see all the three worlds - past, present and future. The people were in awe and offered money to him in a small utensil placed before him. ------167. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji expose him? When he closed his eyes and pretended to go into meditation, Guru Nanak Dev ji quietly picked up the utensil and placed it behind him. When he opened his eyes, he was furious to see his utensil of money missing and started shouting. Guru Nanak Dev ji calmly asked him to close his eyes again and locate the utensil as he could see all the three worlds. At this he felt ashamed and exposed. ------51 168. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the people? Guru Nanak Dev ji made people to see through the trickery of the pandit. “How can he claim to see the three worlds when he cannot see his utensil lying just behind him?” Guru Nanak Dev ji cautioned people against wasting their hard earned money on such frauds. ------169. Which hymn is recorded about the incident by Guru Nanak Dev ji? nyh s whNfj Bke geVfj mrD eT[ ;z;ko[]ojkT[] Akhee th meetehi naak pakarrehi thhagan ko sansaar|| 1 || rehaao||; nKN ;/sh Bke[ geVfj ;{Ms/ fsfB b'n] Aaantt saetee naak pakarrehi soojhate thin loa|| wro gkS? eS[ B ;{M? J/j[ gdw[ nb'n] Magar paachhai kachh n soojhai eaehu padham aloa||2|| (SGGS 663) ------170. What does this verse mean? Some people try to deceive the world by closing their eyes and holding their nostrils closed. They close off their nosetrills with their fingers and claim to see the three worlds. But they cannot even see what is behind them. What a strange lotus pose this is. ------171. What do we learn from this incident? We should ourselves pray to the Almighty Lord for our needs and it is foolish to expect anything from such vile mediators. ------52 172. Who is a Bheel? The area along the eastern coast from Odisha to Rameshvaram is called ‘dravid’. People here are expert bow men. In the Dravidian language a bow is called ‘bheel’ and so the people there came to be known as ‘Bheels’. ------173. Can the ‘Bheels’ be called demons (Raakshas)? No. when the Aryans came to India, they pushed the natives from the fertile food producing lands to jungles and hills and down south. Those who submitted were categorized as ‘shudras’ and allowed to stay as workers for menial jobs. Those who fled to save their honor nursed a deep sense of hatred for the invaders. So, some of them resorted to dacoity and even cannibalism. ------174. Who was the cannibal Bheel Bhai Mardana encountered? During their travel in that area Bhai Mardana got somehow separated from Guru Nanak Dev ji and was captured by the Bheel ‘Kaudda’, also mentioned as ‘Kaoudda rakshas’ in contemporary literature. ------175. How did Kaoudda treat the foreigners? He had become so inhuman out of rage that he would not hesitate to kill and eat even the stranded foreign travelers who happened to come his way. ------176. How did Bhai Mardana escape from the clutches of Kaoudda, the Bheel? Looking for Bhai Mardana, Guru Nanak Dev ji reached the place where Kaudda had captivated him. The radiance of Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s face and the warmth of his words full 53 of love and acceptance melted the stone hearted Kaudda. He not only released Bhai Mardana but also renounced cannibalism and resolved to face aggression and injustice bravely but with a humane heart. ------177. What is unique about this incidence? On one side we observe that huge cache of police and army are deployed by the governments to counter the dacoits in such areas whereas Guru Nanak Dev ji , well aware of the area and its dangers, went alone and unarmed. He displayed exemplary courage and compassion which is unique. ------178. What message does this incidence hold for governments combating revolts globally? Hate breeds hate and violence promotes violence. One cannot win over the oppressed by oppression and silence the voices of dissent by force. Guru Nanak Dev ji had in his armory the lethal weapon of love for the whole creation and the constant remembrance of the omnipresent Creator by which he won over the most difficult of enemies. Governments need be compassionate and just, to effectively overcome dissent. ------179. What is the modern name of the erstwhile Sangla Deep? Sri Lanka. Guru Nanak Dev ji reached there in May 1511 AD. ------180. How did the king of Sangla Deep, Shiva Naabh, get to know of Guru Nanak Dev ji? Bhai Mansukh, a trader from Lahore, Panjab, was a devotee of Guru Nanak Dev ji and led a life of high morals. He had 54 come for business in this country. When the king met him he was highly impressed by the personality and was curious to meet his guru, Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------181. How did the imposters try to exploit this curiosity of King Shivnaabh? They tried to present themselves as Guru Nanak Dev ji and obtain his faith for favours. ------182. What did King Shivnaabh do to recognize the real Guru Nanak Dev ji and filter out the imposters? He would receive the claimant in a garden and offer costly gifts and beautiful women. The imposter would get indulged in the pleasures. ------183. What did the king do when Guru Nanak Dev ji reached there? The king followed the same procedure as he did with other imposters. ------184. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji respond to the situation? Guru Nanak Dev ji showed no interest in the costly gifts and addressed the women as, “ ’O princesses, my daughters, run away from this place. the True Name and embellish your days. Serve your beloved Lord God, and lean on the support of His love. Through the Word of the Guru’s shabad, abandon your thirst for corruption and poison.” rkSj[ g[sqh oki e[nkfo] “Gaachhahu putree raaj kuaar. Bkw[ GDj[ ;u[ d's[ ;tkfo] Naam bhanahu sach dhoth savaar.” (SGGS 1187) ------55 185. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji attribute to, the act of, gazing upon the beauty of another man’s wife? He attributed it to the impurity of the eyes. nyh ;{se[ t/yDk go fsqn go XB o{g[] “Akhee soothak vekhanaa par thria par dhhan roop”. (SGGS 472). ------186. What does Gurbani say about the eyes that gaze upon the beauty of another man’s wife? fwfEnk B/sqq g/ys go fsqn o{gkd] “Mithhiaa naetr paekhath par thria roopaadh” (SGGS 269) False are the eyes that gaze upon the beauty of another man’s wife. ------187. How does the renowned scholar, Bhai Gurdas ji, guide humanity to treat other women, in accordance with Gurbani? d/fy gokJhnk uzrhnk wktK G?DK XhnK ikD?. “Dekh paraaeeaan changeeaan maavaan bhainaan dheeaan jaanai” Bhai Gurdas advised every human to treat beautiful women of others as his mothers, sisters and daughters. ------188. What lesson do we learn from the above incident? A human should look at women respectfully, and all except his wife, as his mother, sister or daughter. Guru Nanak Dev ji looked upon even the dancing girls blessingly as his daughters. ------189. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji return from Sangla deep? He returned in April 1512 AD. ------56 190. What false belief was propagated by the priests of in the public? It was that: “No pilgrimage is complete without bathing at Pushkar”. ------191. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji advise the people there? Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasized that mere bathing physically doesn’t purify the mind of evil thoughts. To gauge the success of life we should introspect and find out how many vices like jealousy, lust, anger, ego and such others have been cleared out of our mind or decreased. ------192. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji say about the evolution of the cosmos? ik eosk f;omh eT[ ;ki/ nkg/ ikD? ;'Jh] “ja kartaa sirthhe ko saajai aapey jaane soae” (SGGS 4). The Creator who created this creation, only He Himself knows. ------193. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji reveal about the pre evolution status? nopd Bopd X[zX{ekok] “Arbadh narbadh dhhundhookaaraa. XofD B rrBk j[ew[ ngkok] Dharan n gaganaa hukam apaaraa. Bk fdB[ o?fB B uzd[ B ;{oi[ ;[zB ;wkfX brkfJdk] Naa din raen na chandh n sooraj sunn samaadh lagaaeidhaa.” (SGGS 1035). For endless eons, there was only utter darkness. There was no earth or sky; there was only the infinite command of His ‘Hukam’. There was no day or night, no moon or sun; God sat in primal, profound ‘’. ------57 194. As per Guru Nanak Dev ji how did the Almighty Lord create the cosmos? ehsk g;kT[ J/e' etkT[] fs; s/ j'J/ by dohnkT[] “keeta pasaao aeiko kavaao. Tis te hoye lakkh dariyao.” (SGGS 3) The Creator created the vast expanse of the universe with One Word. Hundreds of thousands of rivers began to flow. ------195. Does Gurbani conform to the prevalent theory of evolution? etD[ ;[ t/bk tys[ etD[ etD fEfs etD[ tko[] “kavan s vaelaa vakhath kavankavan thhith kavan vaar. etfD f; o[sh wkj[ etD[ fis[ j'nk nkeko[] Kavan s ruthee maahu kavan jith hoaa aakaar. ik eosk f;omh eT[ ;ki/ nkg/ ikD? ;'Jh] Jaa karta sirtthee ko saajae aapae jaanai soee.” (SGGS 4). What was the time, the moment, the date, the day; what were the season and the month; nobody knows only the creator Himself knows. So Gurbani does not approve of the prevalent theories. ------196. What belief was prevalent about kaliyug in Hindustan? It refers to an era, in the ancient Indian scriptures which divide the time into four parts. The Satyug was in the initial stages of the creation and then Treta and Dwapar followed and now Kaliyug, the last in this sequence, with Kaliyug having the longest duration of all. Every era symbolizes a particular nature of humanity in that period. While Satyug signifies the era of truth, Kaliyug signifies the prevalence of evil and falsehood. ------58 197. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji say about the changing of eras (Yug)? Guru Nanak Dev ji observes that if the changing eras affected the nature of people then with the change of an era the nature of people would change overnight. But this is not so. He states in a hymn: ;'Jh uzd[ uVfj ;/ sko/ ;'Jh fdBhno[ sgs oj?] “Soee chand charrehi sae taarae soee dhineear thapath rehai. ;k Xosh ;' gT[D[ M[bko/ i[r ihn y/b/ Ekt e?;/] Sa dharathee so poun jhulaarae jug jeea khaelae thhaav kaisae”. (SGGS 902) The same moon rises, and the same stars; the same sun shines in the sky. The Earth is the same and the same wind blows. The age in which we dwell affects living beings but not these places. It is only in the minds, the state of our thoughts which determines if we are in Satyug or Kaliyug. ------198. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji say about the long period of Kaliyug? Guru Nanak Dev ji doesn’t give any authenticity to the existence of Kaliyug at all. fes? d/f; B nkfJnk ;[Dhn? shoE gkf; B p?mk] Kitae des n aaeiaa suneeai teerath paas n baithaa. dksk dkB[ eo/ sj Bkjh wjb T[;kfo B p?mk] Daatha daan karae the naahee mehal ussar n baithaa. (SGGS 902) Kal yug has not been heard to have come to any country, or to be sitting at any sacred shrine. It is not where the generous person gives to charities, nor seated in the mansion he has built. ------59 199. What is Kaliyug according to Guru Nanak Dev ji? ihtB sbp fBtkfo] “Jeevan talab nivaar. j't? gotkDk eofj fXCkDk efb byD thukfo]ojkT[] Hovai parvaanaa karehi dhingaanaa kal lakhan veechaar. Pause”. (SGGS 902) Give up your attachment to life. Those who act like tyrants and are accepted and approved; recognize that this is the sign of the Dark Age, the Kaliyug. ------200. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji portray the division of Ages? BkBe w/o[ ;oho ek fJe[ oE[ fJe[ oEtkj[] Nanak maeru sareer ka eik rathh eik rathhvaahu, i[r[ i[r[ c/fo tNkJhnfj frnkBh p[Mfj skfj] Jug jug fer vattaaeeahi bujhahi thaahi.” (SGGS 470) O Nanak the soul of the body has one chariot (nature) and one charioteer (aim). In age after age they change; the spiritually wise understand this. ------201. What is Satyug as per Guru Nanak Dev ji? ;si[fr oE[ ;zs'y ek Xow[ nr? oEtkj[] “Satyug rathh santokh ka dharma aagai rathhvaahu” (SGGS 470) In the golden age of Satyug, contentment is the chariot and righteousness the charioteer. Simply stating when righteousness is your aim then contentment is your nature and you are living in the golden age of Satyug. ------60 202. What are the symptoms of the Treta yug? s/qs? oE[ is? ek i'o[ nr? oEtkj[] “Tretae rathu jatae ka jor aggae rathhwahu”. (SGGS 470) In the silver age of Treta Yug, celibacy is the chariot and power is the charioteer. Simply stating when power is your aim then celibacy, self control becomes your nature and you are living in the Treta Yug. ------203. What are the symptoms of people living in the Dhuaapur Yug as per Guru Nanak Dev ji? d[nkg[fo oE[ sg? ek ;s[ nr? oEtkj[] “Dhuaapur rathh thapai kaa sathagai rathhavaahu”. (SGGS 470) In the brass age of Dhuaapur yug, penance is the chariot and truth the charioteer. Simply stating when one controls physical desires and endures hardships for a high character then truth becomes his nature and is living in the brass age of Dhuaapur Yug. ------204. What are the symptoms of people living under the influence of Kaliyug as per Guru Nanak Dev ji? ebi[fr oE[ nrfB ek e{V[ nr? oEtkj[] “Kalyug rathhu agann kaa koor aggai rathhvaahu”. (SGGS 470) In the iron age of kalyug; fire is the chariot and falsehood the charioteer. Simply stating; when fire of desires becomes the vehicle, the driving force (aim), then falsehood becomes the nature, the charioteer. This is the state of Kalyug. ------61 205. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji want to clarify by the above sermons? Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasizes that to identify in which age of the four, Satyug, Traeta yug, Dhuaapur yug and Kalyug is prevalent at present, one must observe the nature of the person. Where righteousness prevails then it is Sathyug while if falsehood prevails then it is Kalyug. It implies that at any moment of time, every member of one family may be living in a different age or a human being, may at different times of the day, live in a different age as per his thoughts and nature. ------206. What does the above discussion indicate? By this explanation one can understand how the yug changes. It implies that the changing of age (Yug) does not mean change in time and the changing times are not responsible for the degradation of human values but human beings themselves are. ------207. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji go to Kurukshetra? It was on the day of solar eclipse. Pilgrims used to gather there on this day to take the holy dip and make donations to priests as a religious ritual. ------208. What false belief was propagated by the priests regarding the solar eclipse? At war with the gods, Raahu and Ketu have imprisoned the sun and the moon (in their mouth). So as long as the gods are in trouble no human beings should eat or drink anything. ------209. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji do to clear the pilgrims and priests of this misconception? Guru Nanak Dev ji built and lit fire in an earthen furnace and 62 cooked food. He ate the food and explained to the people gathered there that solar eclipse was just a simple natural incident and no gods are in any such trouble which can be alleviated by staying hungry or making donations to priests. Help the poor and needy instead. ------210. What do we learn from this incident? We must be alert and aware by logically understanding the falsehood being promoted in the garb of religion by the priestly class for their own vested interests. We should not waste time, energy and resources on futile rituals. Instead a life of remembrance of the Lord (Naam ) and pure deeds is a blissful life. Living in tune with the Laws of Nature is the best way of life. fet ;funkok j'Jhn? fet e{V? s[N? gkfb] Kiv sachiaaraa hoeeai kiv koorrae tutte paal. j[efw oikJh ubDk BkBe fbfynk Bkfb] Hukam razai challana Nanak likhia naal. (SGGS 1) All rituals in the name of religion are futile in uplifting the soul. Keep good company and recite the virtues of the Lord. ntfo eki s/o? fes? B ekw] “Avar kaaj tere kitey n . fwb[ ;kX;zrfs Gi[ e/tb Bkw] Millu saadh bhaju kewal naam”. (SGGS 12). ------211. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the pilgrims? The aim of Human life is to live in the love of the Lord and not to strive for a heaven after death. In the love of the Lord there is no need to abstain from food or make donations to the priests. Guru Nanak Dev ji also exhorted the priests to desist from exploiting the devotion of the pilgrims. ------63 212. Is it possible to make a heaven of earth? Guru Nanak Dev ji propagated that by earning an honest living and reciting the virtuous name of the Lord one can experience heavenly bliss here itself and not after death. ------213. What were the prominent messages Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasized in his first odyssey (Udaasi)? Guru Nanak Dev ji ecouraged the people to live in peace and love for each other and treat all human beings as equals. One should not believe in castes and creeds that create differences, discriminations and exploitation. Guru Nanak Dev ji also advised the ascetics who had renounced the world in search of God to adopt the productive family way of life and earn an honest and dignified living instead of begging for food and other needs from householders. Guru Nanak Dev ji preached that so called religious rituals were futile and should be avoided. He advocated a life of high character and honest earnings, sharing with others and reciting the virtuous name of the Lord. ------214. What is the distance covered by Guru Nanak Dev ji during the first odyssey (Udaasi)? He travelled for about approximately 6862 miles. ------215. Which township was established by Guru Nanak Dev ji after the first Udasi? Kartarpur (now in Pakistan). ------216. Where is Kartarpur situated? It is situated on the banks of river Ravi, near Pakhoke Randhava. The land for this purpose was given by Chaudhary Ajitta. ------64 217. What was the purpose behind establishing the town of Kartarpur? For any new ideology to get established and to prosper in society, the old has to be proved superfluous which is not a smooth job. So it was pertinent to establish a new township where the new ideology could be practically implemented and lived. Here Guru Nanak Dev ji showed to the world how by living the natural family way and working to earn an honest living, one could realize union with the almighty Lord. ------218. What does “” mean? Kartarpur, now being across the Indian border in Pakistan after the partition in 1947, is inaccessible to Indian pilgrims. Commemorating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji in 2019 AD the governments of Pakistan and India agreed to build a special corridor across the border in 2018 and this will facilitate the Indian pilgrims to visit the shrine freely. ------219. What opinion did the group of sadhus visiting Kartarpur form about Guru Nanak Dev ji on the first day at Kartarpur? The group of sadhus observed Guru Nanak Dev ji working in the farm and his hands full of dirt. They saw his disciples cutting firewood, preparing food (). They said “Nanak, you have got a herd of bulls”. ------220. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji respond to their observation? He requested them to stay for a few days. ------221. What did the sadhus feel after a few days? They observed the attitude of hard work, service and love 65 towards humanity in the disciples and said, “Nanak you have got a group of very good humans”. Guru Nanak Dev ji requested them to stay further. ------222. What did the sadhus say after a few more days? They observed the disciples keenly joining together in prayer early in the morning. Then they were reciting the naam while doing their routine chores during the day. The sadhus said “ ’O Nanak you have the gods in your company.” ------223. What did the sadhus say when they took leave after a few more days at Kartarpur? They bowed in respect at Guru Nanak Dev ji’s feet and said “Maharaj, you have a holy congregation which resembles the almighty Lord”. ------224. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji start the second Udaasi? He went on his second Udaasi in September 1517AD. ------225. What ritual was prohibited by Guru Nanak Dev ji in Johadsar? The ritual of animal sacrifice to please the gods was prohibited by Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------226. At which place did Guru Nanak Dev ji hold a dialogue with the siddh jogis (Ascetics)? He met them at ‘Sumer Parbat’. ------227. Where does this place lie? ‘Sumer’ means the highest among the mountains. Rudra Himalaya in the garhwal region is called Sumer Parbat. ------66 228. Why were the jogis surprised to see him there? To reach there one has to go through Badrinath, Saptshring and Hemkund. This is a treacherous and risky track. Wild animals and snakes are a plenty in the area. It is extremely cold as you go higher. ------229. What did the surprised Siddh jogis ask Guru Nanak Dev ji? f;X g[SfD ;[fD pkfbnk eT[D[ ;efs s[fj J/E/ fbnkJh. “Siddh puchhan sun baaleaa kaounu kaounu sakati tuhi aythhay liaaee.”(Vaaraan Bhai Gurdas). The Siddh jogis asked “Listen ‘O young boy, which power brought you here?”. ------230. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in response? jT[ ifgnk gow/;o' GkT[ Grfs ;zfr skVh bkJh. “hou japia parmasaro bhaao sang taari laayee” (Vaaraan-Bhai Gurdas). Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that for coming to this place “I have remembered the Lord with loving devotion and meditated upon Him deeply.” ------231. What did the Siddhs want to know about ‘Maat Lok” mother earth? fcfo g[SfD f;X BkBek wks b'e ftfu fenk toskok< “Phir puchhan siddh Naanakaa maat lo vich kiaa vartaaraa”. (varran Bhai Gurdas) The Siddhs then asked, “‘O Nanak! How are the dealings on mother earth?” ------232. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in reply? pkp/ nkfynk BkE ih ‘;u[ uzdqwK e{V nzXkok. 67 Baabe aakhiaa naath ji sach chandhramaan koor andhaaraa. e{V[ nwktf; tofsnk jT[ GkbfD ufVQnk ;z;kok. Koor amaavas varatiaa hou bhaalan charihaa sansaaraa. gkfg frok;h fgoEwh XT[b[ yVk Xfo j/m g[ekok. Paap giraasee pirathamee dhaul kharaa dhar hett pukaaraa. f;X Sfg p??m/ gopsh eT[D[ irfsq eT[ gkfo T[skok. Siddh chhap baithe parbatee kaun jagat kau paar autaaraa. i'rh frnkB ftj{fDnk fB;fdB nzfr brkfJfB Skok. Jogi giaan vihooniaa nis dhin ang lagaae ahhaaraa. pkM[ r[o{ v[pk ir[ ;kok] Baajh ddubaa jag saaraa||29|| (Vaaraan Bhai Gurdas) Baba Nanak replied: O respected Nath; the truth is dim like the moon and the falsehood like deep darkness. The darkness of the moonless night of falsehood has spread around and I, in order to search for the (truthful) world, have undertaken this journey. The earth is engrossed with sin and its support, the dharma in the form of ox, is crying and wailing (for rescue). In such circumstances, when the siddhs, the adepts, (by becoming repudiators) have taken refuge in the mountains, how the world could get redeemed. Jogis are also bereft of knowledge and simply applying ashes to their bodies are lying down unconcerned. Without Guru the world is getting drowned. ------68 233. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji advise the Siddhs to do? Renouncing the family way, surviving on leaves and fruits of the jungle, smearing the body with ash, piercing the ears and wearing ear rings and practicing other penance activities do not help in union with the Lord. The real jogi is he who toils with his hands and simultaneously praises the virtuous almighty Lord and leads a productive life. ------234. Impressed by Guru Nanak Dev ji what did the siddhs say? f;fX p'bfB ;[G pufB XB[ BkBe s/oh tvh ewkJh. “Siddh bolan subh bachan dhan Nanak teree vaddee kamaaiee.” (Vaaraan Bhai Gurdas) Now, speaking kind words, the Siddhs said, “O Nanak your achievement is great.” ------235. Through out this dialogue what unique point attracts attention? When Guru Nanak Dev ji went to the siddhs, they called him “O young Boy”. But during the course of the dialogue they were highly impressed by his knowledge, conceptual clarity, steadfast beliefs and fearless nature and finally addressed him as “Dhann Nanak” (‘O Blessed Nanak). ------236. Which route did Guru Nanak Dev ji take on return from Sumer Parbat? From Sumer parbat Guru Nanak Dev ji travelled to Nepal, Sikkim, Tibet, Laddakh, and Leh and reached in Kashmir. ------237. Which memorials stand witness to his visit to these places? There is a Gurdwara in Nepal; in Tibet people worship him as 69 the of ‘Padam Sambhav’. Gurudwara ‘Daangmaar’ in Sikkim and Gurdwara ‘Patthar Sahib’ in Leh commemorate his visit to these places. He is also revered as Nanak Lama. ------238. Who were the two prominent disciples of Guru Nanak Dev ji in Kashmir? Pandit Brahmdaas and Pandit Chaturdaas became disciples after meeting Guru Nanak Dev ji there. ------239. Who was Pandit Brahmdaas? He was a learned scholar and would engage in dialogue with other scholars on the condition that the loser would submit all his writings to the winner. He would always travel with loads of books. ------240. Why did Brahmdaas become a disciple of Guru Nanak Dev ji? As per his condition he held a dialogue with Guru Nanak Dev ji too. After a detailed dialogue, Pandit Brahmdaas was highly impressed and felt blessed and submitted. ------241. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji help him get rid of his ego? gfV gfV rvh bdhnfj gfV gfV Gohnfj ;kE] “Parh parh gaddee ladhaahai parh parh bharee’eh saath. gfV gfV p/Vh gkJhn? gfV gfV rvhnfj yks] parh parh beree paieeaai parh parh gaddee’eh khaat. gVhnfj i/s/ po; po; gVhnfj i/s/ wk;] parhee’ehjete baras baras paree’eh jete maas. gVhn? i/sh nkoik gVhnfj i/s/ ;k;] Paree’eh jetee aarajaa paree’eh jete saas. 70 BkBe b/y? fJe rb j'o[ jT[w? MyDk Mky] Naanak lekhei ik gal hor jhakhanaa jhaakh.”(SGGS 467) Guru Nanak Dev ji blessed him saying one may read multitudes of books, read them year after year, month after month; one may read them all his life , with every breath, but meditating on the virtuous lord is the only one act that is of any account and all else is useless babbling and idle talk in ego. ------242. What do we learn from this incident? Knowledge, whether material or spiritual, is useful only if applied for the benefit of others else it only leads to a bloated ego and is useless and waste of precious time as a human being. ------243. What were the people of Sialkot worried about? Pir Hamza Gaous, a religious man, was annoyed with the people of Sialkot for some reason and he sat in penance for forty days without food with the objective to wreck the city. People feared that by of this the city would be doomed. ------244. Why was Pir Hamza annoyed? A childless couple had prayed for and promised that if he blessed them with children they would offer in his service their first son. But after the birth of the child the couple could not bring themselves to part with him and failed in their promise which annoyed Pir Hamza. ------245. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji alleviate the fear of the people of Sialkot? Though nobody was allowed near the place where Pir Hamza sat in penance, Guru Nanak Dev ji managed to get near and 71 started singing hymns in praise of the Lord. This disturbed the meditating Pir. He came out of the place full of anger but facing the serene Guru Nanak Dev ji he fell silent and at peace. Guru Nanak Dev ji then exhorted him to use the meditative powers he had obtained in the service of humanity. “If God gifted powers are used to terrify or destroy His children then He won’t be pleased with you.” Pir Hamza Gaous felt blessed and assured to follow Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s advice. ------246. When did the second udaasi end? In the mid of 1518 AD. ------247. In which direction did Guru Nanak Dev ji proceed for his third udaasi? Guru Nanak Dev ji proceeded towards Mecca and other Arab and Islamic countries. Some historians record it as the fourth udaasi. ------248. What was the prevalent name of ? Aajodhan. ------249. Whom did Guru Nanak Dev ji meet in Pakpattan? At Pakpattan Guru Nanak Dev ji met Sheikh Brahm, the eleventh heir in the lineage of Baba Sheikh Farid ji. It was from him that Guru Nanak Dev ji collected the writings of Sheikh Farid ji. ------250. Who was Sajjan ‘thug’ (the cheat)? Sajjan had built a rest house for the travelers/traders and to project himself as a religious and pious person he established a mandir and a masjid in the courtyard of the rest house. He 72 would welcome the guests and serve them well but loot them at night. ------251. What did the people of the area address him as? Ignorant of the reality people respectably called him “Sheikh ji”. ------252. How did Sajjan treat Guru Nanak Dev ji? He thought that Guru Nanak Dev ji looked like a rich sadhu and expecting good loot he treated them very cordially. When Guru Nanak Dev ji and Bhai Mardana went on with their discussions late in the night he came and requested them to sleep and have rest. ------253. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji respond to his request? Guru Nanak Dev ji promptly replied that he had come not to sleep but to awaken someone asleep. He then asked Bhai Mardana to tune the rebec (rabab) and sang the following hymn: T[ib[ e?jk fubeDk x'fNw ekbVh w;[] “Ujjal keha chilkana ghotum kalri massu; X'fsnk i{fm B T[so? i/ ;T[ X'tk fs;[] Dhotian jooth na uttrey je sau dhova tissu.” (SGGS 729). ------254. What does the above hymn mean? It means that though bronze is bright and shining, but by rubbing, its sable blackness appears. By washing its impurity is removed not, even though it is washed a hundred times. Similarly, people posing as pious and religious on the exterior for impressing others are like the bronze and though they shine on the outer appearance but their inner filth is never removed. ------73 255. What impact did the hymn have on Sajjan? The hymn compelled Sajjan to introspect. He was ashamed and shattered. He fell at the Guru’s feet and confessed to his misdeeds. He promised to lead a life of truth and servitude henceforth. ------256. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji bless Sajjan with? As long as the basis of living is the wealth earned through unfair means, one’s mind cannot bear pure thoughts. So, start a new life, do away with the ill gotten wealth and start earning honestly. ------257. What impact did this advice have on Sajjan? He immediately disbursed the loot among the needy and started earning by honest means. Thus Sajjan’s became a place of worship (Dharamsala). ------258. What does the incident hold for us today? If Sajjan could change himself from a ‘thug’ to a by hearing and contemplating on just one hymn of the Guru, we too can and need to mend our ways but that will be possible only if we listen to the Gurbani with the same intensity and contemplate with introspection. Life then will be honorable and blissful. ------259. How was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s decision to go to Kaaba a bold step? It was a bold step because it was prohibited for non-Muslims and if anyone else went there and was recognized he could face death penalty. ------260. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji plan his entry into Kaaba? Guru Nanak Dev ji dressed up like the ‘haajis’ at Tulamba 74 and joined their group. On the way he discussed with the haajis that Allah was omnipresent and did not abide in a particular place or in a particular direction. He could be realized through true love and praising Him for His virtues. ------261. What is the prayer place called in Mecca? The Muslims call this sacred place ‘Kaaba’. ------262. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji stay on reaching Mecca? Guru Nanak Dev ji stayed at a masjid outside the courtyard of ‘Kaaba’ where haajis from Hindustan were put up. ------263. What transpired with Guru Nanak Dev ji at the Masjid that night? The Qazi Jeevan, who came to wake up the haajis for prayers (Namaaz) early the next morning, saw Guru Nanak Dev ji resting with his feet towards ‘Kaaba’. He was furious and hit Guru Nanak Dev ji with his foot and abused him for the unholy act. ------264. What historical evidence is recorded of this incident? Guru Nanak Dev ji’s contemporary Bhai Buddha ji related the incident and Bhai Gurdas; the renowned scholar recorded it in his vaars as under: p?mk ikfJ w;hs ftfu fiE? jkih jfi r[ikoh. “Baithhaa jaaie maseet vichh jitthai haaji hajj gujaari. ik pkpk ;[sk okfs B' tfb wjokp/ gkfJ g;koh. Ja baba sutta raat no vall mehraabe paair pasaaree. ihtfD wkoh bfs dh e/jVk ;[sk e[co e[ckoh< Jeevan maari latt di kehda sutta kufar kufaari. bsk tfb y[dkfJd/ feT[ efo gfJnk j'fJ pfirkoh. Lattan vall khudaai de kiyon kar paiya hoye bajgaari. 75 Nzr'A gefV x;hfNnk fcfonk wek ebk fdykoh. Tangge pakad ghaseetiya phiriya mecca kalaa dikhaaree. j'fJ j?okB[ eo/fB i[jkoh] Hoye hairaan karey joohaari.”||32|| Now he sat in a mosque where the pilgrims (haajis) had gathered. When Baba (Nanak) slept in the night spreading his legs towards the alcove of mosque at Kaaba, The qazi named jeevan kicked him and asked who was this infidel enacting blasphemy. Why this sinner is sleeping his legs spread towards God, khuda. Catching hold of the legs he lynched (Baba Nanak) and lo and behold the miracle, the whole of Mecca seemed to be revolving. All got surprised and they all bowed.||32|| ------265. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in response? Guru Nanak Dev ji in his unique humble style asked him the reason for getting annoyed. ------266. What did the haajis say in reply to Guru Nanak Dev ji? The Haajis said tersly, “Don’t you know this way (pointing towards Kaaba) is the abode of Allah and it is not right to have your feet in this direction.” ------267. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji pacify the haajis? He asked Jeevan to move his feet in the direction where Allah does not abide. At this Jeevan was dumbstruck and realized that Allah (God) was everywhere. Even verses of the holy Koran testify that Allah is omnipresent. They all bowed in reverence to Guru Nanak Dev ji. ------76 268. What other question did the Haajis ask Guru Nanak Dev ji? They asked Guru Nanak Dev ji, who kept a notebook under his arm to refer to it and tell who is better, Hindu or Muslim. ------269. As per Bhai Gurdas’ records what answer did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to them? pkpk nky/ jkihnK ;[fG nwbk pkMj[ d'B' o'Jh] “Baba aakhey haajeean shubh amlaan baajhon dhono royee”.||33|| Baba replied to the pilgrims (haajis) that, without good deeds both will have to weep and wail. It implies that mere tag of a religion or wearing the dress and following the rituals of any religion doesn’t make one religious. It is the good thoughts and deeds which qualify one as a good, religious human being. ------270. What message did Guru Nanak Dev ji give to the Haajis? Allah (God) loves only those human beings who lead a life of high character; whose behavior and intentions are pious. ------271. What did Pir Rukkandin think of Guru Nanak Dev ji? The Pir held Guru Nanak Dev ji in high esteem and thought that he was the great scholar who had clearly understood the message of the Prophet (Hazrat Mohammad Sahib). ------272. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji proceed from Mecca? From Mecca Guru Nanak Dev ji went to Medina and then through Basra he reached . ------77 273. What surprised the Sikh soldiers, when they reached Basra during the World War 1? They were surprised to meet many disciples of Guru Nanak Dev ji there, leading a life as per his teachings. ------274. Which renowned holy men held a dialogue with Guru Nanak Dev ji in Baghdad? ‘Pir Dastgeer’ and ‘Pir Behlol’. ------275. Which hymn of Guru Nanak Dev ji annoyed Pir Dastgeer? gkskbk gkskb by nkrk;k nkrk;] “paataalaan paataal lakkh aagaasaa aagaasu.” (SGGS 5) Meaning : There are nether worlds beneath nether worlds, and hundreds of thousands of heavenly worlds above. This infuriated Pir Dastgeer because believes only in seven nether worlds beneath and seven heavenly worlds above. He ordered the Guru to be stoned to death (sangsaar). But when people picked up stones for the act they were so awed by the personality of Guru Nanak Dev ji that their hands stopped and couldn’t carry out the orders. ------276. What misconception was cleared by Guru Nanak Dev ji through dialogue with Pir Dastgeer? Allah (God) doesn’t abide at the seventh heavenly world but is omnipresent and is everywhere and in his creation there are countless nether worlds and heavenly worlds. ------277. What was the attitude of the Muslims towards music? Muslims believed that music was blasphemous and listening to music led to vicious thoughts in the mind. ------78 278. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji justify music and tunes? Music is not bad in itself. It depends on how you use it. Hazrat Muhammad Sahib warned from listening to only that music which incited vices. So it is not the tunes but the base lyrics which should be shunned as they lead to spiritual death, while singing praises of the Lord is empowering and uplifting for the soul. ------279. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when asked if he was a Shia or a Sunni? “I am only a seeker of Allah (God).” No religion is bad. Fanaticism and narrow mindedness are a huge hindrance in the social and spiritual development. ------280. What was the impact on Pir Dastgeer after meeting with Guru Nanak Dev ji? He was very impressed by the Guru’s thoughts. He held long discussions with Guru Nanak Dev ji and was satisfied on every question he put to Guru Nanak Dev ji. Pir Dastgeer and Pir Behlol became devotees of Guru Nanak Dev ji and spent the rest of their lives propagating the message of Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------281. What did Fakir Behlol get inscribed on a stone slab? “Be beehn cheh muraad karadh hazrat rabb-e-mazeed Baba Nanak taameer bishavad naagaah immarat-e-nau Hafat avtaad madad kardand aamir ke taareekh hoo Karad nau aab jaari b zameen”. Mureed sayyed 917 hijri ------282. What does this inscription mean? “Behold! How a wish has been fulfilled by Holy and High providence. 79 That building of Baba Nanak has been newly built with the help of seven avtaad (great valis); that the happy murad of God (Baba Nanak) has started a fountain of grace issuing new water in the land. 917 Hijri.” ------283. Where, is this inscribed stone slab, installed? It is at a distance of one and a half (1.5) miles from Baghdad railway station. Near the tomb of ‘Fakir’ Bahlol, the shrine dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev ji with the inscribed slab in the wall, about 4 feet above the ground, was found in 1931AD. It is made of sandstone and measures 21 inches by 15 inches. ------284. What is the uniqueness of the well which was got dug by Guru Nanak Dev ji in Baghdad? People of Baghdad depend on river Tigris for water. Wells, in and around Baghdad, are brackish. Guru Nanak Dev ji got a well dug in the southeast corner and it produced sweet water. Even now it is the only well with sweet drinking water. Its diameter is about 21 feet and date of construction is 917 Hijri as given on the plaque ------285. What were the notable messages of Guru Nanak Dev ji in the Arab countries? He advocated that: 1. God (‘Khudaa’) is omnipresent. 2. Music is not to be prohibited but it is the base lyrics that spoil the life. Musically praising God (Allah) changes life for good and unites the soul with Him. 3. The endless Lord’s creation is also endless. ------80 286. Which route did Guru Nanak Dev ji take on his return from Baghdad? Guru Nanak Dev ji proceeded from Baghdad to Iran, Turkistan, Kabul, and then Hassan Abdaal en route to Hindustan. ------287. Where was Guru Nanak Dev ji when invaded Hindustan? He was at Saidpur (Eminabaad). ------288. Which dynasty ruled Hindustan at this time? The Lodhi dynasty ruled from at that time. ------289. What was the main reason for the defeat of the Lodhis against Babur? The incompetent, alcoholic rulers neglected the duty to protect the region and citizens from external threats. Also, instead of organizing the army, on hearing the news of impending invasion of Babur, they called the pirs and tantriks to magically blind the advancing enemy. ------290. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji record in his hymns about the incident? e'Nh j{ gho tofi ojkJ/ ik who[ ;[fDnk XkfJnk] “koti hoo pir varj rahai jaa meer suniaa dhaaiaa”. (SGGS 417) Meaning: Millions of pirs (religious men who claimed to have super magical powers and could blind the advancing enemy) were ordered to sit and apply their powers when the news of Babur’s (Mir) impending invasion reached the king. ------81 291. Did the magical powers of the pirs have any impact? No. Instead Guru Nanak Dev ji records the incident further as: e'Jh w[rb[ B j'nk nzXk feB? B gouk bkfJnk] “koee mughal n hoaa andhaa kinnai n parccha laaiaa”(SGGS 417) Meaning: No mughal was blinded, nor could any pir show any miracles. ------292. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji comment about the lifestyle of the rulers of Hindustan? ;kjK ;[ofs rtkJhnk ozfr swk;? ukfJ] “Saahaa surat gavaaeeaa rang tamaasai cchaaee” (SGGS 417) Meaning: The kings had lost their , reveling in pleasure and sensuality. ------293. To what does Guru Nanak Dev ji compare the invasion of Babur? gkg eh izR b? ekpbj[ XkfJnk i'oh wzr? dkB[ t/ bkb'] “paap kee janj lai kaabulahu dhaiaa joree mangai dhaan ve Laalo.” (SGGS 722) Guru Nanak Dev ji relates the invasion to a marriage party of sin led by Babur from Kabul and demanding the land of Hindustan as wedding gift. ------294. Why does Guru Nanak Dev ji make this comparison? Rejoicing on their victory, the invading soldiers fell upon the public as hell. They looted, butchered and burnt the people and property at will. Women were dishonored and there was 82 anarchy all around. The whole city was ransacked and destroyed and those alive were captured. So Guru Nanak Dev ji compared them to the wedding procession of sin. ------295. How did Babur’s army treat the captives? Babur took the captives beyond Saidpur and camped at village Avaann in Sialkot on the banks of river Ravi. The captives were scared of the tyranny of Babur. They were made to grind grains into flour on the manual chhakkis. They would toil and weep in pain. ------296. How did the army treat Guru Nanak Dev ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji along with Bhai Mardana were also captured and made to grind flour along with other people. ------297. What surprised the soldiers of Babur? They were surprised to note that Guru Nanak Dev ji and Bhai Mardana did not show any signs of fear. They did the work taking it as the will of God and were a source of solace and courage for the others. The captives in their company were also losing fear and getting morally strong. ------298. What did Babur do when he was informed about Guru Nanak Dev ji? Babur wished to meet Guru Nanak Dev ji and the soldiers presented him before the king. Guru Nanak Dev ji was dressed as a Muslim fakir. He boldly told Babur to be humane in his dealings. He impressed upon him to introspect and conveyed to him,” Human life is a precious gift of Allah (God). So you should live it sensibly.” ------83 299. What was the impact of Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s words on Babur? After meeting Guru Nanak Dev ji, Babur ordered the release of all the captives immediately. ------300. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji help the survivors? The released people were afraid to go back to the devastated city. Guru Nanak Dev ji encouraged them and accompanied them to Saidpur. The scene there was pathetic. It was full of dead bodies, mutilated, bodies of disrobed young ladies, bodies of young men being prey of scavengers like crows and vultures. Guru Nanak Dev ji exhorted the people to be courageous and helped them bury or burn the dead as per their beliefs. He helped them bring life back on track sharing their sorrows and guiding them to lead a virtuous life. ------301. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say about the invasion of Babur after seeing the plight of the public? y[ok;kB y;wkBk ehnk fjzd[;skB[ vokfJnk] “Khuraasaan khasmaana keeaa hindostaan daraaia. nkg? d';[ B d/Jh eosk iw[ efo w[rb[ uVkfJnk] Aapey dhos n dhaiee kartaa jamm kar mughal chadaaiaa. J/sh wko gJh eobkD? s?A eh dod[ B nkfJnk] Etee maar payee karlaane tae ki dhardhu n aaiaa.” (SGGS 360) Khuraasaan You took under Your refuge ‘O Lord, but Hindostaan was terrified. The Creator Himself doesn’t take the blame, but has sent the mughal as the messenger of death. There was so much slaughter that the people screamed. Didn’t You feel compassion ‘O Lord? ------84 302. “Sakta seehu maarey pai vagai khasmaai saa pursaaee” (SGGS 360). What does ‘seehu’ indicate? ;esk ;hj[ wko/ g? tr? y;w? ;k g[o;kJh] The above hymn means literally: “If a powerful Lion attacks a flock of sheep and kills them, then its master must answer for it.” The ‘seehu’ (Lion) here indicates to the invader king, Babur. ------303. What is the significance of this incidence? When a majority of the rulers in Hindustan could not muster up the courage to stop Babur; at that time Guru Nanak Dev ji, without any army, not only challenged him but also dared to call him a “Tyrant” in his presence. This gives a strong message to the world that it is a sin to be cruel to anyone and equally a sin to meekly endure cruelty and injustice. ------304. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji setle after his last Udaasi? He settled down at Kartarpur. ------305. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji continue preaching while at Kartarpur? He would hold congregations in the mornings and in the evenings. Apart from this he would travel two to three miles in the region every day for the purpose and return. ------306. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji visit Acchall? He visited Acchall at the festival time of Shivratri. ------307. With whom did Guru Nanak Dev ji hold a dialogue there? He went there with the intention of meeting the Siddhs and 85 Jogis who would gather there annually and held a detailed dialogue with them there. ------308. Why was a large number of the youth inclined to become jogi in those times? Due to the indifferent and partisan attitude of the Mughal rulers towards the non-Muslims, many young men chose to leave homes and escape out of frustration to become jogis. ------309. What miraculous acts did the jogis display at Acchal to impress the public of their prowess? Someone stood on one leg; someone would stand on his head, and someone would bury his head in the ground. Some claimed of the power to live without breathing while another said he could fly like the birds. Someone claimed that he could walk on water. ------310. What did the jogis ask Guru Nanak Dev ji to do? They asked him to show some miracles. ------311. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in response? pkM' ;u/ Bkw d/ j'o[ eokwkfs n;K s/ Bkjh. “Baajhon sacchey naam de hor karaa maat asaan te naahi”(Bhai Gurdas , Vaar 1-43) Meaning: Without the Name of the True Lord I don’t have any miraculous powers. ------312. What according to Guru Nanak Dev ji is the biggest miracle one could perform? To be able to imbibe the ‘Naam’, name of the True Lord, in ones heart is the biggest miracle. ------86 313. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say about miraculous spiritual powers? nkfg BkE[ BkEh ;G ik eh fofX f;fX ntok ;kd] “Aap naath naathhee sabh ja kee riddh siddh avra saad.”(SGGS 6). He alone and Himself is the master of all, and show of wealth and miraculous spiritual powers are base tastes which distract from His path. ------314. How does show of miraculous spiritual powers distract one from the real path of humanity? Guru Nanak Dev ji feels so and says: f;X[ j'tk f;fX bkJh fofX nkyk nkT[] “Siddh hova siddh laaee riddh aakhan aao. r[gs[ gorN[ j'fJ p?;k b'e[ oky? GkT[] Gupat pargat hoe baisaa loku raakhae bhaao ws[ d/fy G{bk th;o? s/ok fufs B nkt? BkT[] Matt dhekh bhoolaa veesrai tera chiti n aavai naao.” (SGGS 14) Meaning: If I were to become a siddh, work miracles and summon wealth. And become visible and invisible at will so that people would hold me in awe. Seeing thees I might go astray and forget You, and Your Name might not enter into my heart. ------315. What did Guru Sahib advise the people? Religion is the way of virtuous life. It is ignorant to take miracles and jugglery as religious acts. ------316. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji comment about the tendency of Jogis to perform miracles? Guru Nanak Dev ji questioned their powers saying that when 87 the tyrant rulers unleash terror on the people of Hindustan and defile their religious places, why at that time they fail to use their powers. ------317. To what does Guru Nanak Dev ji attribute his success in convincing the public? He attributes this to the impact of holy congregation and the holy hymns. r[o ;zrfs pkDh fpBk d{ih UN BjhA jfj okJh. “gur sangat bani bina dhooji oat nahi hai raaee”. ( Bhai Gurdas vaar 1-42) I have no support except of the Guru (God), the sangat (holy congregation) and the Word (Bani). ------318. What did the Siddhs complain to Guru Nanak Dev ji? The Siddhs objected to his wearing the dress of Fakirs (ascetics) despite being a family man. ------319. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in response? I have not denounced the family way but its pleasures and obsessions. r[ow[fy y'is GJ/ T[dk;h] “gurmukh khojath bhaye udaasi. do;B e? skJh G/y fBtk;h] Dharsan kai thaaee bhekh niwaasi,” (SGGS 939). I have become a wandering udaasee searching for gurmukhs (saints) I have adopted these robes seeking the blessed vision of those saints. ------88 320. “Teerath naaiae sukh phall paaeeai mail n laagae kaaiee.” (SGGS 939) Does this verse contradict Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s thought? shofE BkJhn? ;[y[ cb[ gkJhn? w?b[ B br? ekJh] There is no contradiction in Gurbani. In the above verse Jogi Lohareepa says, “We bathe at the sacred shrines of pilgrimage and obtain the fruits of peace; not an iota of filth sticks to us”. Guru Nanak Dev ji then replies as recorded in the next verse: “bin naave mann tek n tikaee nanak bhookh n jaaee.” Meaning: Without the Name the mind has no firm support; ‘O Nanak, this hunger never departs. ------321. What does jogi Charpat refer to as ‘Dhuttar saagar’? He refers to the world and asked Guru Nanak Dev ji : d[Bhnk ;kro[ d[so[ ejhn? feT[ efo gkJhn? gko'] “Dunia saagar dhuttar kahiai kio kar paaiai paaro” (SGGS 938) The world – ocean is treacherous and impassable; how can one cross over? To this Guru Nanak Dev ji replied: ;[ofs ;pfd Gt ;kro[ sohn? BkBe Bkw[ tykD/] “Surrat sabad bhav saagar tariae nanak naam vakhaane.” (SGGS 938) With one’s consciousness focused on the word of the ‘Sabad’, one goes across the terrifying world-ocean; ‘O Nanak, chant the ‘naam’, the Name of the Lord. ------322. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji reply to their query as to how would his followers cross over the world-ocean? The jogis asked Guru Nanak Dev ji , feT[ efo ;kE[ bzxktj[ gko/] “kio kar saath langhavoh pare”; 89 Meaning; how will those who follow you cross over? Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that he who follows the path of the Guru(God) crosses over. BkBe r[ow[fy T[sof; gko/] “Nanak gurmukh auterass pare.” (SGGS 939) ------323. Who is hidden and who is liberated? How did Guru Nanak Dev ji answer this question of the jogis? They asked, etB[ ;[ r[gsk etB[ ;[ w[esk] “kavanu su gupataa, kavanu su mukataa.” Guru Nanak Dev ji replied, xfN xfN r[gsk r[ow[fy w[esk] “ghat ghat gopataa, guramukh mukataa.” (SGGS 939) Meaning: He, the Lord, is hidden in every heart and guramukh (the one follows His path) is liberated. ------324. What was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s answer to the query,” How does one become pure and how is the darkness of ignorance removed?” feT[ efo fBowb[ feT[ efo nzfXnkok] “Kio ka nirmal kio kar andhiaaraa;” Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that when one follows the path of the True Guru the darkness of confusion is dispelled and the mind becomes pure: ;fsr[o[ fwb? nzX/ok ikfJ] “Satgur milaai andheraa jaae.”(SGGS 939) ------325. What was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s reply to the question, “What merchandise do you trade in?” fe;[ tyo d/ s[w tDiko/] “kis vakhar ke tum vanjaare?” 90 The Guru replied that he traded in the merchandise of Truth, the holy ‘naam’ of the virtuous Lord saying: ;ku tyo e/ jw tDiko/] “Saacch vakhar ke ham vanjaare.” (SGGS 939) ------326. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when they wanted to know how he had changed the course of his life? fes[ fpfX g[oyk iBw[ tNkfJnk] “kitu bidhu purkhaa janam vataaiaa.” To this Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that as he followed the path of the True Guru (God), his mind became stable and settled. Born into the House of the True Guru my wandering in ended. ;fsr[o{ e? iBw/ rtB[ fwNkfJnk] “ ke janame gavan mitaiaa.” (SGGS 939-940) ------327. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when they wanted to know with what had he attached his mind? ekj/ eT[ s[M[ fJj[ wB[ bkfJnk] “Kaahe kau tujh ehu mann laaiaa.” (SGGS 939-940) To this Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that as he turned his mind to the unstruck sound current of the Lord he experienced blisss and got attuned to it saying: nBjfs oks/ fJj[ wB[ bkfJnk] “Anhat rate ehu mann laaiaa.” (SGGS 940) ------328. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when they wanted to know how he had subdued his hopes and desires and found the Light within? fes[ fpfX nk;k wB;k ykJh] fes[ fpfX i'fs fBozsfo gkJh] 91 “Kithu bidhu aasa mansaa khaaee, Kit bidhu joth niranthar paaee” Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that through the word of shabad his hopes and desires have burnt away and by following the Lord he had found the Light within, saying: wB;k nk;k ;pfd ibkJh] r[ow[fy i'fs fBozsfo gkJh] “mansaa aasa sabad jalaaee. Guramukh jot nirantar paaee.” (SGGS 940). ------329. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when they wanted to know the place where evil thoughts are destroyed? e[p[fX utkt? ;' fes[ mkfJ] “kubudh chavaave so kitu tthao.” Guru Nanak Dev ji replied that evil thoughts can be erased by contemplating the Shabad of the Lord, saying; e[p[fX fwN? r[o ;pd[ phukfo] “kubuddh mitai gur sabad bichaar.”(SGGS 944) ------330. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say when they wanted to know who was his Guru? ;pd[ r[o{ ;[ofs X[fB u/bk] “sabadh guroo srrat dhun chelaa.” Meaning: Shabad is the Guru and my consciousness focused in it is the disciple (chelaa). It implies that the physical body is neither Guru (guide) nor the disciple. ------331. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji advise the jogis? Guru Nanak Dev ji told the jogis that though they survived on the donations of the householders, they despised that way of life. This is a misconception and the householder way of life is better than theirs. They earn their livelihood and support 92 their families and the other needy people thereby leading a respectable life. ------332. How does Bhai Gurdas ji record this in his vaars? j'fJ nshs[ frqj;fs sfi fcfo T[Bj[ e/ xfo wzrfD ikJh. “hoey atheeth grihasth thaj fir aunhu ke ghar mangan jaaee.” (vaar1 – 40) Meaning: You, while distancing and repudiating household life, go again to those householders for begging. ------333. What was the effect of this whole discourse on the jogis? Bhangar Nath, Charpat, Lohareepa and other eminent Jogis adopted the teachings and way of life as propagated by Guru Nanak Dev ji . After this historic dialogue with Guru Nanak Dev ji , Charpat jogi wrote the following verse which shows the total change in their ideology: “Kaahe kaaran kanan cheera khaaoon; Vibhootee n lagaaoo je auter auter jaaee; Khar jiu dhoori laetae meri balaee; sailee n bandhau levo n a prgaanee; Audaaoo n khinthha jo hoye purani; padh n poojo n AUjhaa n authaavon; Kuttey ki niyaaee maanganae n jaavon; duarey duarey dhooaa n paaoo; Bhekh ka jogi mai n kahaaoo; aatamaa ka jogi charpat naaou.” Meaning: Why should I pierce my ears and wear ear rings; ‘Why should I smear ash on my body when it gets off after some time; It is like the donkey wriggling in dust; 93 I won’t tie the ‘sailee’(a silky thread symbolizing abstinence) on my head; I won’t wear the ‘khinthha’(cloth of rags) which gets worn out and has to be discarded; I won’t go like a dog begging door to door. I don’t want to be an imposter jogi; I am the spiritual jogi Charpat by name.’ ------334. Under what name is this dialogue with the Jogis at Acchal Vattaalaa recorded in Guru Granth Sahib? It is known by the name ‘Siddh Gosht’. ------335. Where did Guru Nanak Dev Ji proceed from Acchal Vattaalaa? Multan. ------336. The mausoleum of which sufi saint is situated in Multan? The mausoleum of Shams Tabrez, who came from Sabzwar city of Ghazni, is situated near Multan. He used to say ‘An Al Haque’ (which means, “I am Truth”).The devout Muslims in Multan thought this was blasphemous equated to saying ‘I am God’ and he was sentenced to death. ------337. What did the religious heads of Multan do when they came to know of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s presence outside the city of Multan? They sent a bowl of milk full up to the brims. It may be perceived as sent to indicate that there were already enough saints in Multan and there was no place for more. ------338. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji respond to the act? Guru Nanak Dev ji lightly placed a jasmine flower on the milk without letting a drop fall out of the bowl. This may be 94 perceived to indicate back that his presence won’t disturb them in any way. Like the flower, he too had no weight (ego) and won’t claim any space to displace anyone. ------339. What was the consequence of this? The Pirs of Multan welcomed Guru Nanak Dev ji gracefully into the city. They were curious to know his viewpoint. Guru Nanak Dev ji explained that as a river loses its identity when it merges into the ocean, so should we shed our ego to merge with the Lord. Our chant should not be ‘I’ but only ‘You’, the lord. Stop worshipping the tombs of the dead and get connected with the deathless and omnipresent Lord. ------340. What was the childhood name of ? He was called Boora. ------341. Where did Guru Nanak Dev ji meet Boora? Guru Nanak Dev ji met him in a village called Ramdas where he was grazing buffaloes. Guru Nanak Dev ji halted for rest and he came and sat nearby. ------342. What did Boora say that impressed Guru Nanak Dev ji? He brought a bowl of milk and offered it to Guru Nanak Dev ji. He pleaded Guru Nanak Dev ji to deliver him of the cycle of rebirth. Guru Nanak Dev ji wondered, “You are a small boy. From where did you get this wisdom?” To this Boora politely replied, “When the Mughals invaded, they cut all the crops without distinction of ripe or raw. So I felt that age is not the criteria and death could come anytime.” These wise words impressed Guru Nanak Dev ji. ------95 343. What else did Guru Nanak Dev ji say to Boora? At your age you ought to play and have fun. How come you are so wise? ------344. What did Boora say in response? Boora politely said, “ ‘O Master, one day my mother was lighting the fire in the chullah and I observed that small twigs caught fire earlier than the bigger sticks. Then I thought that as I am young, I might die earlier. So I started seeking the company of saints. ------345. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say after listening to Boora? He blessed Boora saying, “You are not Boora but ‘Buddah’ (elderly and wise). ------346. What type of a social order did Guru Nanak Dev ji envisage and try for? He worked for a welfare state; A social order of equality, universal brotherhood, mutual love and understanding; where there was no discrimination between human beings; no exploitation, economic social or mental, of man by man. Everybody contributed to the society and served the needy. The basic human needs of food, shelter and clothing and the basic right to freedom of thought are ensured. ------347. Why is Guru Nanak Dev ji called ‘Jagat Guru’(Guru of the world)? It is so because Guru Nanak Dev ji viewed all as humans irrespective of the gender and religions or sects they claimed to belong. His sermons were for the mental transformation. His sermons focused on the virtues and virtuous living which is applicable to all humans. ------96 348. Which religion is attributed to have been founded by Guru Nanak Dev ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasized human virtues and exhorted people to lead a virtuous, productive and meaningful life. He refuted the rituals and false beliefs being carried out in the name of religion; the bloodshed by those treating religions as ‘groups’ for political gains. He simplified and glorified the human life. His teachings are a ‘religion for the religions’ in the real sense. Those seekers who adopted his way of life are called ‘’ (students, disciples), and the world views Sikhi as a religion. ------349. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji attain the knowledge of Gurbani as recorded in Guru Granth Sahib? i?;h w? nkt? y;w eh pkDh s?;Vk eoh frnkB[ t/ bkb'] “Jaisee mai aavaeh khasam ki baani taesaraa karee giaan ve Lalo.” (SGGS 722) Meaning: As the Word of the Lord comes to me, so do I express it, ‘O Lalo. Simply stating, the Gurbani, as recorded in Guru Granth Sahib, is that eternal wisdom which transpires when the Guru is attuned to and is one with the Lord, the source of all knowledge. ------350. ‘Gurbani is the knowledge obtained from the source of all knowledge’. Which verse in Guru Granth Sahib says so? jT[ nkgj[ p'fb B ikDdk w? efjnk ;G[ j[ewkT[ ihT[] “Haou aapahu bol n jaanadaa mai kahiaa sabh hukmaao jeeo.” (SGGS 763) By myself, I do not even know how to speak; I speak all that the Lord commands. ------97 351. In how many different did Guru Nanak Dev ji recite the holy hymns? He composed the hymns in 19 ragas. ------352. What is religion as per Guru Nanak Dev ji? Truth is Religion; and truth is one but to reach to that Truth. There can be many different ways which we call religions. ------353. In what context does Guru Nanak Dev ji talk of religion? Guru Nanak Dev ji does not consider religion as mere knowledge of the Almighty Lord and various ways of worship but as a complete and ideal human lifestyle. ------354. Quote the Gurbani verse which guides us to learn the art of life from the Guru? r[o fwfb ui[ nuko[ f;y[ s[X[ ed/ B br? d[y[] “Gur mil chaj achaar sikh thudhu kadhe n laggai dukh.” (SGGS 50) Meeting with the Guru, be a sincere student of proper conduct and suffering shall never touch you. ------355. What is the aim of religion? To shape an ideal human being who in all aspects of life such as spiritual, social, economic, political and psychological, has the right attitude and approach and lives according to that. ------356. What does religion develop in the life of a person? Religion develops in a person the virtues and a good character where the ups and downs of life do not affect the good behavior and leads an exemplary life free of vices and of service to all. ------98 357. How does Satguru impact the life of a person in His company? ;fsr[o[ y'fNnj[ yo/ eo/ ;pfd ;tkoDjko[] “Satigur khoteo khare karai sabadh milaavanhaar.” (SGGS 143) The True Guru converts the counterfeit into genuine; through the Word of the Shabad. He embellishes and exalts us. ------358. Why is the remembrance of God required to be good? This is so because He is the source of all goodness and by remembering and singing His praises one acquires the same values. i? f;T[ oksk s?;' j't?] “jai seo raataa taeso hovaaie” (SGGS 411) We become like the One with whom we are imbued. ------359. How has Guru Nanak Dev ji recorded the virtues of the Lord? Guru Nanak Dev ji has recorded some virtues of the unfathomable Lord in the beginning, before his famous composition ‘Japu’, in Guru Granth Sahib. The disciples refer to it as ‘Mool Mantar’. ------360. How many times is it repeated in the Guru Granth Sahib? It comes 33 times in the whole scripture comprising 1430 pages. ------361. What are those virtues? “Ik Oankaar Satinaamu Kartaa Purakhu Nirbhau Nirvair Aakaal Murat Aajooni Saibhang Gurprasad.” One Universal Creator God, The Name Is Truth, Creative 99 Being Personified, No Fear, No Hatred, Image Of The Undying, Beyond Birth, Self Existent, By Guru’s Grace. ------362. What is the unique way of worship of the Lord that Guru Nanak Dev ji revealed to the world? Living a householder’s life, farmers tending to the farms, business persons looking after business, shopkeepers running their shops, kings ruling their kingdoms and workers doing their work could simultaneously be in worship by keeping His presence in mind. Keeping the company of seekers (congregations) and sharing virtues and ignoring the others’ shortcomings helps in strengthening the bonds of love with Him. Abstinence, and performance of rituals are futile. ------363. Which verse in Gurbani reinforces this view? ;fsr[o eh n?;h tfvnkJh] g[sq ebsq ftu/ rfs gkJh] “Satigur ki aisiee vadiaaee. Puttar kalattar vicchey gathi paaee.” (SGGS 661) Such is the glory of the True Guru; in the midst of children and spouse they attain emancipation. ------364. What is the definition of a holy congregation as per Guru Nanak Dev ji? ;s;zrfs e?;h ikDhn?] fiE? J/e' Bkw[ tykDhn?] “Satisangat kaisee jaaneeae: jitthey aeiko naam vakhaaniae.” (SGGS 72) How is the society of saints to be known? There The Name of The One Lord Is Chanted. ------365. For a Satsang (Holy congregation) how many people are required as per Bhai Gurdas ji? fJe[ f;y[ d[fJ ;kX ;zr[ gzihA gow/;o[. 100 “Ikk sikh dooee saadh sang panjhi parmesar” (Vaar 13–19) Meaning one is a seeker and if two get together then it is Sattsang (holy congregation). ------366. What is the benefit of the holy congregation (Satsang)? ;s;zrfs ;fsr[o uN;kb j? fis[ jfo r[D f;yk] “Satasangat satigur chatsaal hai jit har gun sikha.” (SGGS 1316) The Sat Sangat, The True Congregation of The True Guru, is The School of the Soul, where the Glorious Virtues of The Lord are studied. ------367. When does the bond of love with God get created? rzY[ gohsh fwm/ p'b] “Gandd preetee mithey bol.” (SGGS 143) As God, the Creator resides within the Creation; the bond of love with God is created when sweet words become our habit. ------368. When does this bond of love break? Harsh words have the opposite impact and the bond of love breaks. N{fN gohfs rJh p[o p'fb] “tooti preeti gaiee bur bole.” (SGGS 929). ------369. What are the three salient features of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s message? “Kirrat karo; ; Vandd chakko: feos eo', Bkw ig', tzv Se' These imply: Remain active and productive always and earn an honest living; 101 Keep in mind the remembrance of the omnipresent Lord and contemplate His virtues; Live for others by sharing material and spiritual assets for the welfare of all. ------370. What efforts did Guru Nanak Dev ji put in for social equality? Guru Nanak Dev ji gave special attention to the poor and downtrodden sections of the society. He strongly promoted universal brotherhood and worked for a genderless, casteless and classless society. He exhorted people to live a life of self respect and dignity and that all were the children of the same God. He identified himself with the so called lowest of the lowly castes. Bhuk nzdfo Bhu ikfs Bhuh j{ nfs Bhu[] “Neecha andar neech jaat neechee hu att neech; BkBe[ fsB e? ;zfr ;kfE tfvnk f;T[ fenk oh;] nanak tin ke sang saath vaddhiaan sio kia rees; fiE? Bhu ;wkbhnfB fsE? Bdfo s/oh py;h;] jitthey neech samaliyann titthey nadar teri bakhsheesh.” (SGGS 15) Emphasizing thus that - Where the lowly are cared for, there thy glance of Grace rains O Lord. ------371. How did the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji reach the people in congregations? Guru Nanak Dev ji used to write down himself in a notebook. As per some sources Bhai Mansukh, Hansoo Lohaar, Seeha Chheemba, Saidon Ghehon, Jhadoo Malal etc. who were disciples of the Guru made copies of his verses and sent to various places as per demand. ------102 372. Name the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji as recorded in Guru Granth Sahib? Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s hymns have been recorded under various names as Japu, Aasaa di vaar, Siddh Gosht, Oankaar, Patti, Barahmahaa Thukhaari, Pahirey, Kucchajji, Succhajji and alaahniaa. ------373. What name did Guru Nanak Dev ji use for God in the beginning? Guru Nanak Dev ji calls Him ‘Truth’. This Truth is eternal. nkfd ;u[ i[rkfd ;u[] j? Gh ;u[ BkBe j';h Gh ;u[] “Aad sach jugaad sach hai bhi sach Nanak hose bhee sach.” (SGGS 1) True in the Primal beginning; True throughout the Ages; True Here and Now; ‘O Nanak, forever and ever True. ------374. How can this Truth be sought? fenk izrb[ Y{Yh ikfJ w? xfo pB[ johnktbk] “Kia jungle dhoodhee jaaye mai ghari bann hariaavlaa” (SGGS 420) Truth is in every heart and not outside. In the above verse the Guru says why I should go searching Him in the jungles when the woods in my home (heart) are so green. ------375. What is the condition for obtaining this Truth? ;uh eko? ;u[ fwb? r[owfs gb? gkfJ] Sachee kaare sach milai palley paaee.” (SGGS 19) By true actions, the True Lord is met and the Guru’s Teachings are found. ------103 376. What status does Gurbani give to Truthful living? ;uj[ Uo? ;G[ e' T[gfo ;u[ nkuko[] “sachahu oarai sabh ko aupar sach aachaar.” (SGGS 62) Truth is higher than everything; but higher still is Truthful living. ------377. Who is a real Jogi as per Gurbani? ;' i'rh i' i[rfs gSkD?] r[o go;kdh J/e' ikD?] “So jogi jo jugati pachhaane; gur parsaadee aeko jaane.” (SGGS 662) He alone is a Jogi who understands the Way. By the Guru’s Grace he knows the One Lord. ------378. Who is a real Qazi according to Gurbani? ekih ;' i' T[bNh eo?] r[o go;kdh ihts[ wo?] Qazi so jo aulti karai; Gur Parsaadi jeevat marai.” (SGGS 662) He alone is a qazi who turns away from the world, and who by Guru’s Grace remains dead (to worldly desires) while yet alive. ------379. Who is a real Brahmin according to Gurbani? ;' pqkjwD i' pqjw phuko?] nkfg so? ;rb/ e[b sko?] “So jo braham beechaare. Aap tarey sagaley kul taarey.” (SGGS 662) He alone is a Brahmin who contemplates God. He saves himself and his generations as well. ------380. Who is really wise as per Gurbani? dkB;pzd[ ;'Jh fdfb X't?] “daanasbandh soee dil dhovai.” (SGGS 662) One who cleanses his own mind is wise. ------104 381. Who is a real Muslim as per Gurbani? w[;bwkD[ ;'Jh wb[ y't?] “Mussalmaan soee malu khovai.” (SGGS 662) He is a true Muslim who washes off the filth of vices from his mind. ------382. Who is a real scholar as per Gurbani? gfVnk p{M? ;' gotkD[] “Pariaa boojhai so parvanu.” (SGGS 662) He who reads and understands is acceptable. He is a real scholar as he applies the knowledge to go on the virtuous path. ------383. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji record the vices that had crept into the priestly class of various religions? ekdh e{V[ p'fb wb[ ykfJ] pqkjwD[ Bkt? ihnk xkfJ] Kaadi koor bol mal khaae; braahaman naavai jeeaan ghaai; i'rh i[rfs B ikD? nzX[] shB/ T[ikV/ ek pzX[] Jogi jugat n jaane andh; teene aujaare ka bandhu.” (SGGS 662) The Qazi tells lies and eats filth. The Brahmin kills (exploits low castes) and then takes cleansing baths. The jogi is blind and does not know the way. All the three devise their own destruction (spiritual death). ------384. What message does Guru Nanak Dev ji Convey? The clear message is that to unite with the Lord these priests should not be depended upon. ------385. Is Guru Nanak Dev ji’s ‘baani’ influenced by other religious texts? It appears so when we observe similar vocabulary being used. 105 But it is not so because the vocabulary now used has new meanings. ------386. What was the status of women in society at the time of Guru Nanak Dev ji? The woman was expected to do the chores at home, give birth and rear children. To please her husband was her religion and if the husband died before her then she would have to burn to death along with his corpse (sati). ------387. What directions did the priests give her for serving her husband? The husband should be worshipped as the Lord even if he is an alcoholic, robber, murderer, adulterer or the like. ------388. Who was the first disciple of Guru Nanak Dev ji? Bebe Nanaki ji (his elder sister) was his first disciple. ------389. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say in support of the woman? ;' feT[ wzdk nkyhn? fis[ izwfj okikB] “So kio manda aakheeai jitu jammeh raajaan.” (SGGS 473) Guru Nanak Dev ji logically questioned the society saying, “Why is she called bad who gives birth to kings?” ------390. Guru Nanak Dev ji struck at the root of the male hegemony. How? He referred to God as genderless. He said the Lord, the creator, is the mother as well as the father. He said all souls (men and women) were brides and God the bridegroom. ------106 391. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji advice those who are trying to explore the end of the cosmos? Those who, on the basis of their intellect, try to define the Lord and His Creation will never reach their goal and are wasting their time as fools. The unfathomable Lord and His Creation cannot be gauged by human intellect. One should try to appreciate and sync with Nature and sing His praises instead to lead a virtuous and blissful life. tvk ;kfjp[ tvh BkJh ehsk ik ek j't?] “vadda sahib vaddi naaiee keetaa ja ka hovai; BkBe i/ eo nkg" ikD? nr? rfJnk B ;'j?] Nanak je ko aapo jaane aggay gaiaa na sohai.” (SGGS 8) Great is the Master, great is His Name. Whatever happens is according to His Will. O Nanak, one who claims to know everything, shall not be decorated in the world hereafter. ------392. What rituals performed in the name of religion yield nothing? shoE[ sg[ dfJnk ds[ dkB[] “Teerath tap daya datt daan; je ko pave til ka maan.” (SGGS 4) Pilgrimages, austere discipline compassion and charity These by themselves, bring only an iota of merit. ------393. What merits the most? ;[fDnk wzfBnk wfB ehsk GkT[] “sunniaa manniaa mann keetaa bhaao; nzsorfs shofE wfb BkT[] Antargat teerath mal naao.”(SGGS 4) 107 Listening and believing with love and humility in your mind; Cleanse yourself with the Name at the sacred shrine deep within. ------394. In what context are the terms hell and heaven used in Gurbani? sjk p?e[zm[ ij ehosB[ s/ok s{z nkg/ ;oXk bkfJfj] “taha baikunth jaha keertan tera tu aapey sardhaa laaeehe.” (SGGS 749) That place is heaven, where the of Lord’s praises is sung. You Yourself instill faith in us. As these terms were prevalent in those times and Guru Nanak Dev ji in order to put through the feeling of bliss of a virtuous life compared it to the mythical heaven and a life bereft of virtues, troubled by greed, hatred, and other vices, to the mythical hell. ------395. What does Gurbani say about the concept of Heaven and Hell? etB[ Boe[ fenk ;[or[ fpukok ;zsB d'T{ okd/] “kavan nark kiya suargu bichaaraa, santan douoo raade; jw ekj{ eh ekfD B eYs/ ngB/ r[o go;kd/] Hum kaahoo ki kaan n kadhate, apane gur parsaade.” (SGGS 969) What is hell and what is heaven? The saints reject them both. I have no obligation to either of them, by the Grace of my Guru. epho ;[or Boe s/ w? ofjU ;fsr[o e/ go;kfd] “ surag narak te mai rahio satigur ke parsaad; uoB ewb eh wT[i wfj ojT[ nzfs no[ nkfd] 108 Charan kamal ki maouj meh rahaou ant aour aad.” (SGGS 1370) Kabeer says, I have been spared from heaven and hell, by the grace of the True Guru. From beginning to end, I abide in the joy of the Lord’s lotus feet. Thus Gurbani refutes the concept of heaven or hell after death. Gurbani desists from the lure of heaven or the fear of hell. ------396. What is the concept of ‘’? We reap what we sow. So our deeds should be such that we reap happiness, love, liberty and respect. You cannot escape the consequences of your bad deeds either. ------397. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji say in this regard? Guru Nanak Dev ji says that if one repents his bad deeds and resolves never to repeat them, and starts following the virtuous path as shown by the Guru, then he will be absolved of his previous bad deeds and their consequences. fgSb/ nT[r[D pyf; bJ/ gqG[ nkr? wkofr gkt?] “Picchhale augun baksh laye prabhu aagey maarg paavai.”(SGGS 624) Please forgive my past actions God, and place me on Your path for the future. ------398. Can the destiny be changed? ;zsB w' eT[ g{zih ;T[gh sT[ T[sfonk wB ek X'yk] “santan mou kou poonji sounpee tou autriya mann ka dhokha; Xow okfJ np ejk eo?r' iT[ ckfNU ;rb' b/yk] Dharma rai ab kaha kraaigo jaou faattiou saglau lekhaa.” (SGGS 614) 109 The Saints entrusted to me the capital, and my mind’s delusion was dispelled. What can the Righteous Judge of Dharma do now? All my accounts have been torn up. Thus by abiding to the path of the Guru one’s destiny can be changed for good. ------399. What is the concept of liberation, ‘Mukti’ propounded by Guru Nanak Dev ji? It was prevalent that one could be freed from the cycle of rebirth after death. It was possible by meditating, by severe penance, through ascetism and many other easier modes devised by the priests who exploited this concept to loot the public. Guru Nanak Dev ji propounded that by living in constant loving memory of the omnipresent gracious Lord one could allay the fear of death. Only the one who has not done his duty properly fears the master. He who sows the seed of sin fears at the time of harvest (Death). So real ‘mukti’ is not after death but while living and is possible by freedom from the vices and remembering the good Lord with every breath. ------400. What is the concept of ‘Sootak’ and ‘Paatak’? The house, where a woman has given birth to a baby (Sootak) or where someone died (Patak), was considered impure. For a specific number of days food from that house was considered impure. ------401. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji say about ‘Sootak’ and ‘Patak’? ;G' ;{se[ Gow[ j? d{i? br? ikfJ] “sabho sootak bharam hai doojai laggaai jaaey.” (SGGS 472) 110 All impurity comes from doubt and attachment to duality. Guru Nanak Dev ji logically explained that if impurity was associated with birth and death then all grains of food have micro organisms taking birth and dying at any time. So, by that logic, all food is impure. This is not right and all food is pure as it is provided by the Lord for the sustenance of the creation. ykDk ghDk gfts[q j? fds'B[ foie[ ;zpkfj] “khaanaa peenaa pavittar hai dhitton rijakk sambaahe.” (SGGS 472) ------402. Alternatively what does Guru Nanak Dev ji say is real “Sootak and Paatak”(impurity)? wB ek ;{se[ b'G[ j? fijtk ;{se[ e{V[] “Mann ka sootak loabh hai, jehvaa sootak kood; nyh ;{se[ t/yDk go fsqn go XB o{g[] Aakkhee sootak vekhanaa par thria par dhann roop; ezBh ;{se[ ezfB g? bkfJspkoh ykfj] Kannee sootak kanni pai laaitbaaree khaahe.” (SGGS 472) Guru Nanak Dev ji says: Impurity of the mind is greed and impurity of the tongue is falsehood. Impurity of the eyes is to gaze upon the beauty of another man’s wife and wealth. Impurity of the ears is to listen to the slander of others. ------403. What does Guru Nanak Dev ji advise about the king and the scholar? syfs pj? sys? eh bkfJe] “Takhat bahaai takhtai ki laaeik.” ( SGGS 1309) He alone sits on the throne of his mind who has controlled, as 111 per the advice of the Guru, and is the master of his five sense organs. oki/ u[bh fBnkt eh gfVnk ;u[ fXnkB[] “Raaje choolee niaav ki, padiaa sach dhiyaan.” (SGGS 1240) For the king cleansing is ‘justice’ and for the scholar meditating on the Truth. So Truth and Justice are important characterics required in the character of a wise ruler. ------404. Why were the Hindustanis not able to effectively counter the invaders? They were divided into castes and only the Khatri caste or Rajputs were allowed to learn the art of war and use weaponry and defend the territories. The Brahmins were the scholar priests who studied religion and philosophy and guided the kings. The vaish caste was to work for the economy and the shudras were the untouchables who were meant only to serve the upper castes and do menial jobs. Life had become very cumbersome in the name of religion due to futile rituals and social degradation which made the society vulnerable to invasions and subjugation. ------405. What did Guru Nanak Dev ji do to deliver the society out of this hell? Guru Nanak Dev ji , as an expert social engineer or an expert doctor diagnosed the problem and worked on a three point formula. He instilled self respect, by propagating the eternal truth of universal brotherhood and equality, in every human being. He instilled in them the dignity of labour and that service to humanity was the best way of life. 112 He organized the brotherhoods of social workers as sangats which thereby multiplied the effort. ------406. How can one become fearless? ;' fBoGT[ r[o ;pfd gSkD?] “So nirbhau gur sabad pachhaane.” (SGGS 1042) He alone is fearless who realizes the Word of the Guru’s Shabad. He then is in the perpetual company of the Almighty Lord. ------407. How does Gurbani conceptualize the fear of God? Gurbani does not take it in the sense of a weakness but clarifies that it actually is a respect and equates it to fear of parents at home and to the rule of law in a society which makes one desist from evil and anti social activities, therby helping us be better human beings. ------408. What form of pooja (worship) is recommended by Guru Nanak Dev ji? g{ik ehu? Bkw[ fXnkJhn? fpB[ Bkt? g{i B j'fJ]ojkT[] “pooja keecchey naam dhiaaeeai bin naave pooj n hoee.” (SGGS 489) Perform worship and adoration by meditating on the Naam, the Name of the Lord; without delving upon the Name no worship is acceptable. Meditating on the Name of the Virtuous Almighty Lord one imbibes the virtues and is emancipated. ------409. Should we worship the portraits or idols of the Guru? r[o w{ofs r[o[ ;pd[ j? ;kX;zrfs fwfb nzfwqs t/bk. “gur moorat gur sabad hai saadhsangati mili amrit vela.” (Bhai Gurdas ji, vaar 24-11) 113 No. Bhai Gurdas ji clarifies that: “Only the Guru’s Word is the idol of the Guru and this word is received in the holy congregation, in the ambrosial hours of the day.” ------410. How many stages of spiritual elevation does Guru Nanak Dev ji state in Japu ji? Guru Nanak Dev ji describes five stages and he refers to them as ‘khand’. ------411. What are the five khand called? 1. Dharam khand 2. Gyaan khand 3. Saram khand 4. Karam khand and 5. Sacch khand. ------412. What is Dharam khand? It is the stage where one understands one’s duties as a human being and that the earth is a place to contribute as humans and gain virtues. ------413. What knowledge does one get in Gyan khand? It is the stage when one comes to know that the creation and the Creator are unfathomable. With this huge humbling knowledge one loses all ego and submits to the overwhelming Lord. ------414. What does Saram khand mean? It is the stage when one, after understanding ones duties and knowing the expanse of the creation, works to shape his intellect, his consciousness and his mind in tune with the Lord’s holy will. ------415. What does Karam khand mean? It is the stage when one’s efforts become worthy of the grace 114 of the Lord and one becomes strong and fearless warrior against the vices. The mind is ever attuned with the Lord and experiences eternal bliss. ------416. What are the vices that are conquered at this stage? fBjs/ gzfi i[nkB w? r[o Ekgh fdsh ezfv ihT[] “Nihaate panj juaan main gur thhaapee diti kand jio,” (SGGS 74). I have thrown the five challengers on the ground and the Guru has patted (blessed) me on the back. The five are; 1. Lust (kaam), 2. Anger (krodh), 3. Greed (), 4. Attachment/Obsession () and 5. Ego (Ahankaar) ------417. What is Sacch khand? It is the stage where by His Grace; one loses one’s identity and becomes one with the Almighty Lord. All differences vanish there and only the Lord prevails. ------418. How does Guru Nanak Dev ji describe Sacch khand? ;u yzfv t;? fBozeko[] “Sacch khand vasai Nirankaar,” (SGGS 8) Here the realization downs upon one that it is the Lord and Only the Lord prevalent everywhere. ------419. When did Bhai Mardana ji breathe his last? Bhai Mardana ji breathed his last in 1534AD at Kartarpur. ------420. From whom did Bhai Lehna hear the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji? He heard the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji from Bhai Jodh at a place now called Khadoor Sahib. ------115 421. What impact did the verses have on Lehna ji? It was the first time that he had heard any hymns in praise of the Lord in his mother tongue. His mind was captivated by the simplicity and depth of emotions in them. He was eager to see Guru Nanak Dev ji at the earliest. ------422. How did Bhai Lehna meet Guru Nanak Dev ji? Bhai Lehna used to go on pilgrimage as the leader of a group to Vaishno Devi shrine every year. This year (1532 AD) when he was going on that pilgrimage, he stopped on the way at Kartarpur, to meet Guru Nanak Dev ji . ------423. What was the impact of Guru Nanak Dev ji on Bhai Lehna during the first meeting? Guru Nanak Dev ji was working in the farm and when Bhai Lehna asked him about Guru Nanak Dev ji ’s residence, he politely asked him to sit on the horse and offered to take him there. Bhai Lehna complied and Guru Nanak Dev ji escorted the horse by the rein to his place. He then changed his soiled clothes and appeared before Bhai Lehna who was so captivated by the simplicity, humility and the grace that he dropped the idea of proceeding on the pilgrimage and felt blessed there. ------424. Why did Guru Nanak Dev ji take Bhai Lehna to the farm? He took Bhai Lehna to the rice plantation in the farm to pluck out the weeds. ------425. How did Guru Nanak Dev ji explain the process of deweeding to him? The weeds too suck energy from the soil and if not removed the rice plantation will suffer the loss. The same applies to 116 vices which if not plucked out disturb the mind and hamper spiritual growth. ------426. Whom did Guru Nanak Dev ji appoint his successor? Guru Nanak Dev ji had two sons and many devout disciples but his keen observation selected Bhai Lehna to be his spiritual successor. He then ceremoniously appointed Bhai Lehna ji and handed him over the booklet containing his hymns and those of other saints collected from elsewhere during his travels. He asked him to go to Khadoor Sahib and guide the people on the path of Truth and righteousness. ------427. When did Guru Nanak Dev ji breathe his last? Guru Nanak Dev ji breathed his last on 22nd September 1539 AD at Kartarpur at the age of about 70 years. ------428. What is the United Nations ‘Faith for Rights’ initiative? In March 2017, the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights launched its initiative on ‘Faiths for Rights’ which provides space for a cross disciplinary reflection on the deep and mutually enriching connections between religions and human rights. ------429. How did the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji (Guru Granth Sahib) get mentioned in the first UN official document? It is due to the efforts of UN advisory committee member Dr. Iqtidar Cheema that three hymns got mentioned in the UN document. ------430. Which are the Hymns that have been documented by the UN? 1H j[fD j[ew[ j'nk fwjotkD dk] g? e'fJ B fe;? oRkDdk] 117 “Hun hukam hoaa mehervaan da; pai koe n kisai ravaanada; ;G ;[ykbh t[mhnk fJj[ j'nk jb/wh oki[ ihT[] Sabh sukhaali vutthiaa ehu hoa halemi raaj jeeo.” (SGGS 73) “No one shall coerce another; no one shall exploit another. Everyone, each individual has the inalienable birth right to seek and pursue happiness and self-fulfilment. Love and Persuasion is the only law of social coherence.”

2H Gzfv izwhn? Gzfv fBzwhn? Gzfv wzrD[ thnkj[] “Bhand jammiai bhand nimmiai bhand mangan viaahu. Gzvj[ j't? d';sh Gzvj[ ub? okj[] Bhando hovai dostee, bhando challey raahu. Gzv w[nk Gzv[ Gkbhn? Gzfv j't? pzXkB[] Bhand mooaa bhand bhaaleeae bhande hovai bandhaan. ;' feT[ wzdk nkyhn? fis[ izwfj okikB] So kiyo manddaa aakheeai jitu jammeh raajaan Gzvj[ jh Gzv T{gi? Gzv? pkM[ B e'fJ] Bhandahu hi bhand aupjai bhandai baajh n koe. BkBe Gzv? pkjok J/e' ;uk ;'fJ] Nanak bhande baharaa eikko saacchaa soey.” (SGGS 473) “It is a woman who is a friend and partner for life. It is woman who keeps the race going. How may we think low of her of whom are born the greatest. From a woman a woman is born; none may exist without a woman.”

3H pqjw frnkBh ;dk fBod'y] i?;/ ;{o[ ;op eT[ ;'y] “Brahm gyaani sadaa nirdokh. Jaisae sooru sarab kao sokh. 118 pqjw frnkBh e? fdq;fN ;wkfB] i?;/ oki oze eT[ bkr? s[fb gtkB] Braham gyaani kai drisht samani. Jaise raaj rank kao laagai tuli pavaan (SGGS 272) “The God-conscious being is always unstained, like the sun, which gives its comfort and warmth to all. The God-conscious being looks upon all alike, like the wind, which blows equally upon the king and the poor beggar.” ------431. Which places and serve as some of the prominent memorials to Guru Nanak Dev ji? ´ , Pakistan ´ Panja Sahib, Pakistan ´ Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan ´ Gurdwara Sahib, Baghdad, Iraq ´ Majnu Tilla, Delhi ´ Nanak Jhira, Bidar-Karnatka ´ Gyan Godri, Haridwar-Uttarakhand ´ Reettha Sahib, Uttarakhand ´ Sahib, Uttarakhand ´ Gurudwara Puri, Oddisha ´ Gurdwara Rameshwaram, Kerala ´ Patthar Sahib, Laddakh ´ Daangmaar Sahib, Sikkim ´ Sultanpur Lodhi, Panjab. Etc. ------432. How should we befittingly celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji? A befitting tribute to Guru Nanak Dev ji on the 550th birth anniversary would be: ´ To imbibe his message in letter and spirit and live a life as role models for the world to emulate; 119 ´ To live a life not merely to serve others, but to empower them; ´ To live a life of piety, love, sacrifice and uphold the dignity of labour and the sanctity of Truth; ´ To stand by the meek and speak up against injustice and social evils; ´ To live as a global citizen and work for the welfare of all the Creation.

120 Thus they spoke of Guru Nanak: “King of revolution of religious thought, the great Guru Nanak. In each of his mild words are concealed myriads of swords which write in human blood. The Name, whose lyrical repetition is to found the future empire of the laboring man on Love, Labour and Utter Renunciation.” The Spirit born people, - Prof. Puran Singh “It was Guru Nanak who, for the first time in the and for the first time in the history of the world, perceived that there can be no enduring democratic culture unless grounded in unreserved recognition of full equality of woman with man.” Contributions of Guru Nanak, - Sirdar Kapur Singh ICS “...after centuries of subjection, Nanak was the first among the Hindus to raise his voice against tyranny and oppression.” Narang, Dr. Gokul Chand, Transformation of Sikhism, Lahore, — 1912, p. 40, fn. “He (Guru Nanak) cut himself adrift from all associations with the prevailing sectarian religions; and although his approach to God was through love and devotion, he did not adopt the imagery or symbolism of Vaishnavism or any other creed. His was the first and also the last successful attempt to gather the Hindus and Mus- lims in a common fold of spiritual and social brotherhood...” His- tory & Culture of the Indian People, Bhartiya Bhavan, Bombay, 1960, Vol. VI, p. 569. References: 1. Guru Nanak Dev – Jeevan Birtaant Ate Sandesh- Dr Mandeep Singh 2. Guru Nanak – Prof Sahib Singh 3. Guru Nanaks Impact on History – Dr. Ganda Singh 4. ‘The Spirit Born People’ – Prof. Puran Singh 5. Contributions of Guru Nanak – Sirdar Kapur Singh 6. ‘Bandi Chhod’ Guru Nanak – Gurbax Singh Preetlari 7. Guru Nanak And His Mission – Principal 8. Guru Nanak-Advocate of Communal Concord – Brahma Singh “Brahma” 9. ‘Guru Nanak di adhunikta nu den’ – S Gutej Singh IAS. 121