Dear Jarnail Singh ji,

Vahgur ji ka Khalsa, Vahgur ji ki Fateh!

I shall respond with my interpretation of Siddh Gosht (hopefully soon). Meanwhile, I thank you for discussing the critical need for a grounding in Gurbani grammar. It is important for seekers of Gurmat.

There is something in your post that caught my eye and I wish to bring it to your attention, considering you have discussed grammatical rules.

You had correctly pointed to the rule concerning the Aunkarh. However, if you apply that rule to the line to which you have referred, then it will change the focus of your argument.

Invariably, whenever people refer to this Shabad they claim that Guru Sahib is saying only fools argue about meat. However, this particular line in the Shabad talks specifically about the "learned" Pandit who judges others (as sinners) because of what they eat. Here, the khakha in Murakh has an aunkarh. The Shabad refers to those particular Murakhs who do not understand that we (humans) are all meat, we come from it, we marry it, we produce it and are sustained by it, and judge others for what they eat. This complete Shabad & Paurhi, more than any other, addressed the "meat issue". If only people had the courage to discuss it.

Guru Sahib explains that we are all meat and that an ignorant fool does not eat Bhakh - that which is fit to eat - food, including so-called meat, yet will eat Abhakh - that which is not fit for consumption - Paraya Haq, that which belongs to others. Guru Nanak says that those who cannot make this distinction and judge others are guided by a blind zeal (Andh Guru).

If we sit in judgment of others because of what they eat, or think ourselves superior because of what we eat, then we are the Murakh referred to by Guru Nanak.

The Paurhi's essence refers to the fact that people waste their time (life) over frivolous arguments while wallowing in hypocrisy. It also shows that the alternative is to seek guidance from the Universal Enlightener (Wisdom).

Akal Sahai!

Gaurav Singh