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Guru Granth Sahib
Composition, Arrangement & Layout
ਜਪੁ | Jup
ਸੋ ਦਰੁ | So Dar
ਸੋਹਿਲਾ | Sohilaa
ਰਾਗੁ ਸਿਰੀਰਾਗੁ | Raag Siree-Raag
Gurbani (14-53)
Ashtpadiyan (53-71)
Gurbani (71-74)
Pahre (74-78)
Chhant (78-81)
Vanjara (81-82)
Vaar Siri Raag (83-91)
Bhagat Bani (91-93)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਝ | Raag Maajh
Gurbani (94-109)
Ashtpadi (109)
Ashtpadiyan (110-129)
Ashtpadi (129-130)
Ashtpadiyan (130-133)
Bara Maha (133-136)
Din Raen (136-137)
Vaar Maajh Ki (137-150)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗਉੜੀ | Raag Gauree
Gurbani (151-185)
Quartets/Couplets (185-220)
Ashtpadiyan (220-234)
Karhalei (234-235)
Ashtpadiyan (235-242)
Chhant (242-249)
Baavan Akhari (250-262)
Sukhmani (262-296)
Thittee (296-300)
Gauree kii Vaar (300-323)
Gurbani (323-330)
Ashtpadiyan (330-340)
Baavan Akhari (340-343)
Thintteen (343-344)
Vaar Kabir (344-345)
Bhagat Bani (345-346)
ਰਾਗੁ ਆਸਾ | Raag Aasaa
Gurbani (347-348)
Chaupaday (348-364)
Panchpadde (364-365)
Kaafee (365-409)
Aasaavaree (409-411)
Ashtpadiyan (411-432)
Patee (432-435)
Chhant (435-462)
Vaar Aasaa (462-475)
Bhagat Bani (475-488)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗੂਜਰੀ | Raag Goojaree
Gurbani (489-503)
Ashtpadiyan (503-508)
Vaar Gujari (508-517)
Vaar Gujari (517-526)
ਰਾਗੁ ਦੇਵਗੰਧਾਰੀ | Raag Dayv-Gandhaaree
Gurbani (527-536)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਿਹਾਗੜਾ | Raag Bihaagraa
Gurbani (537-556)
Chhant (538-548)
Vaar Bihaagraa (548-556)
ਰਾਗੁ ਵਡਹੰਸ | Raag Wadhans
Gurbani (557-564)
Ashtpadiyan (564-565)
Chhant (565-575)
Ghoriaan (575-578)
Alaahaniiaa (578-582)
Vaar Wadhans (582-594)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸੋਰਠਿ | Raag Sorath
Gurbani (595-634)
Asatpadhiya (634-642)
Vaar Sorath (642-659)
ਰਾਗੁ ਧਨਾਸਰੀ | Raag Dhanasaree
Gurbani (660-685)
Astpadhiya (685-687)
Chhant (687-691)
Bhagat Bani (691-695)
ਰਾਗੁ ਜੈਤਸਰੀ | Raag Jaitsree
Gurbani (696-703)
Chhant (703-705)
Vaar Jaitsaree (705-710)
Bhagat Bani (710)
ਰਾਗੁ ਟੋਡੀ | Raag Todee
ਰਾਗੁ ਬੈਰਾੜੀ | Raag Bairaaree
ਰਾਗੁ ਤਿਲੰਗ | Raag Tilang
Gurbani (721-727)
Bhagat Bani (727)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸੂਹੀ | Raag Suhi
Gurbani (728-750)
Ashtpadiyan (750-761)
Kaafee (761-762)
Suchajee (762)
Gunvantee (763)
Chhant (763-785)
Vaar Soohee (785-792)
Bhagat Bani (792-794)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਿਲਾਵਲੁ | Raag Bilaaval
Gurbani (795-831)
Ashtpadiyan (831-838)
Thitteen (838-840)
Vaar Sat (841-843)
Chhant (843-848)
Vaar Bilaaval (849-855)
Bhagat Bani (855-858)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗੋਂਡ | Raag Gond
Gurbani (859-869)
Ashtpadiyan (869)
Bhagat Bani (870-875)
ਰਾਗੁ ਰਾਮਕਲੀ | Raag Ramkalee
Ashtpadiyan (902-916)
Gurbani (876-902)
Anand (917-922)
Sadd (923-924)
Chhant (924-929)
Dakhnee (929-938)
Sidh Gosat (938-946)
Vaar Ramkalee (947-968)
ਰਾਗੁ ਨਟ ਨਾਰਾਇਨ | Raag Nat Narayan
Gurbani (975-980)
Ashtpadiyan (980-983)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਲੀ ਗਉੜਾ | Raag Maalee Gauraa
Gurbani (984-988)
Bhagat Bani (988)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਰੂ | Raag Maaroo
Gurbani (889-1008)
Ashtpadiyan (1008-1014)
Kaafee (1014-1016)
Ashtpadiyan (1016-1019)
Anjulian (1019-1020)
Solhe (1020-1033)
Dakhni (1033-1043)
ਰਾਗੁ ਤੁਖਾਰੀ | Raag Tukhaari
Bara Maha (1107-1110)
Chhant (1110-1117)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕੇਦਾਰਾ | Raag Kedara
Gurbani (1118-1123)
Bhagat Bani (1123-1124)
ਰਾਗੁ ਭੈਰਉ | Raag Bhairo
Gurbani (1125-1152)
Partaal (1153)
Ashtpadiyan (1153-1167)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਸੰਤੁ | Raag Basant
Gurbani (1168-1187)
Ashtpadiyan (1187-1193)
Vaar Basant (1193-1196)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸਾਰਗ | Raag Saarag
Gurbani (1197-1200)
Partaal (1200-1231)
Ashtpadiyan (1232-1236)
Chhant (1236-1237)
Vaar Saarang (1237-1253)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਲਾਰ | Raag Malaar
Gurbani (1254-1293)
Partaal (1265-1273)
Ashtpadiyan (1273-1278)
Chhant (1278)
Vaar Malaar (1278-91)
Bhagat Bani (1292-93)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕਾਨੜਾ | Raag Kaanraa
Gurbani (1294-96)
Partaal (1296-1318)
Ashtpadiyan (1308-1312)
Chhant (1312)
Vaar Kaanraa
Bhagat Bani (1318)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕਲਿਆਨ | Raag Kalyaan
Gurbani (1319-23)
Ashtpadiyan (1323-26)
ਰਾਗੁ ਪ੍ਰਭਾਤੀ | Raag Prabhaatee
Gurbani (1327-1341)
Ashtpadiyan (1342-51)
ਰਾਗੁ ਜੈਜਾਵੰਤੀ | Raag Jaijaiwanti
Gurbani (1352-53)
Salok | Gatha | Phunahe | Chaubole | Swayiye
Sehskritee Mahala 1
Sehskritee Mahala 5
Gaathaa Mahala 5
Phunhay Mahala 5
Chaubolae Mahala 5
Shaloks Bhagat Kabir
Shaloks Sheikh Farid
Swaiyyae Mahala 5
Swaiyyae in Praise of Gurus
Shaloks in Addition To Vaars
Shalok Ninth Mehl
Mundavanee Mehl 5
ਰਾਗ ਮਾਲਾ, Raag Maalaa
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<blockquote data-quote="vsgrewal48895" data-source="post: 105891" data-attributes="member: 8024"><p style="text-align: center"><p style="text-align: left"> </p> </p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><p style="text-align: left"> </p> </p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><p style="text-align: center"><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">SIKH VALUES ACCORDING TO SABD GURU</span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><strong>The values of Sikh faith are contained in AGGS. Their emphasis is mostly on subjugating the lower human instincts and developing the higher virtues, to become a Guru Willed </strong></span><span style="color: black">(</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">) </span><span style="color: black"><strong>better person</strong></span><span style="color: black">.</span><span style="color: black"><strong> AGGS is a path to grow in spirituality, to find the Higher Power in the Higher Self hidden behind the lower self of ego (</strong></span></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਹਉਮੈ</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">)</span></span><span style="color: black">.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਭੂਲੇ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਜਿਨਹਿ ਬਤਾਇਆ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਐਸਾ ਗੁਰੁ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਪਾਇਆ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਸਿਮਰਿ ਮਨਾ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਚਿਤਾਰੇ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਬਸਿ ਰਹੇ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਗੁਰ ਚਰਨ ਪਿਆਰੇ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em>Bhoolay Maarag Jineh Bataa-i-aa, Aisaa Gur Vadbhaagee Paa-i-aa, Simar Manaa Raam Naam Chitaaray, Bas Rahay Hirdai Gur Charan Pi-aaray.</em></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Guru places the one who strays back on the Path; such a Guru is found by great good fortune. Meditate; contemplate on Its Name, O mind. The Beloved Feet of the Guru abide within my heart. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Arjan, Raag Bilawal, AGGS, Page, 803-18 & 19</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">The Principles laid down in Sabd Guru, when followed honestly, earnestly, willingly, with total acceptance, and truthfully lead to spiritual progress by rooting out ego, doubt, duality, lust, greed, anger and bondage. </span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਬਿਨੁ</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਸਬਦੈ</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਭਰਮੁ ਨ ਚੂਕਈ ਨਾ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਜਾਇ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਬਿਨੁ ਪ੍ਰੀਤੀ</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਭਗਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਥਾਇ ਨ ਪਾਇ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span></p><p><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Bin Sabdai Bharam Na Chooka-ee Na Vichoh Haoumai Jaaey, bin pareetee bhagat na hova-ee bin sabdai thaa-ay na paa-ay.</span></span></em></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Without understanding and reflecting on Sabd, doubt is not dispelled, and egotism is not eliminated from within. <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">With out love, there is no devotional worship and without the Sabd, no one finds acceptance.</span></span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 67-4</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Sabd Guru incorporates the teachings of 6, Sikh Gurus, 15 Bhagats of different faith, 17 Bhatts, and 3 Sikh Bards, thus making it a universal secular Holy book. </span>The holy text comprises over 5000 Sabds or hymns which are poetically constructed; are designed to be sung in 31 musical Ragas – only a few know about their modes. These hymns impart instructions for spiritual growth of the humanity. It also contains a hymn of Guru Gobind Singh at Page, 1429-7 as hymn # 54 ,which is a reply to hymn#53, Dohira, of Guru Tegh Bahadur (1429-6):</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਲੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਛੁ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਟਕਿਓ ਬੰਧਨ ਪਰੇ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਹੋਤ ਉਪਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਅਬ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਓਟ ਹਰਿ ਗਜ ਜਿਉ ਹੋਹੁ ਸਹਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">੫੩</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">(ਮ–੯)</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> <strong><span style="color: black"> </span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Bal Chutkeo Bandhan Paray Kachoo Na Hoat Oupaa-ey, Kaoh Nanak Ub OaT Gaj Jeo Hoh Sahaa-ey. (M-9)</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">My strength is exhausted, and I am in bondage; I cannot do anything at all. Says Nanak, now, the Akal Purkh is my Support; and will help me, as It did the elephant.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਲੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਹੋਆ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਬੰਧਨ ਛੁਟੇ ਸਭੁ ਕਿਛੁ ਹੋਤ ਉਪਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਨਾਨਕ ਸਭੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਿ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਛੁ ਤੁਮਰੈ ਹਾਥ ਮੈ ਤੁਮ ਹੀ ਹੋਤ ਸਹਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">੫੪</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">(</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">–</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">੧੦)</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Bal Hoaa Bandhan Chutay Sabh Kich Hoat Oupaa-ey, Nanak Sabh Kich Tumrai Haath Mai Tum Hee Hoat Sahaa-ey. (M-10)</span></em></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">My strength has been restored, and my bonds have been broken; now, I can do everything. Nanak: everything is in Your hands, O, Akal Purkh; You are my Helper and Support.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"> -----</span><span style="color: black">Ref- Mahan Kosh & Old Birs in the library of Punjabi University, Patiala.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Sikhs were instructed by the 10th Guru that after his death there will be no living guru as his successor after his death. Sikhs are to follow the “Sabd Gur/AGGS” which is the embodiment of the instructions for the humanity to follow. Sikh Gurus never claimed themselves to be God. Guru Gobind Singh writes in “Bachitar Natak,” his autobiography on this question.</span></span> </span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਜੇ ਹਮ ਕੋ ਪਰਮੇਸ਼ਰ ਉਚਰ ਹੈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਤੇ ਸਭ ਨਰਕ ਕੁੰਡ ਮਹਿ ਪਰਿ ਹੈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black"> </span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Jay Ham Ko Parmayshar Ouchar Hai, Tay Sabh Narak Kound Meh Par Hai.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Whosoever calls me God, will fall in to the ditch of hell.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Hence Sabd Guru is not to be considered God but only respected like other Sikh Gurus and followed in thought, word, and spirit the teachings contained there in. It aims to root out idolatry, ritualism and ignorance of worship, Spiritual Ignorance, from the Sikh faith. AGGS contains the tools for the humanity to progress in spirituality to become better human being. But unfortunately this universal book of spiritual wisdom has been hijacked, made in to an idol and kept in lock and key by the uneducated clergy and Sikh politicians, for their own personal, egotistical reasons. They restrict its use in the Hotels, where smoking and drinking takes place outside the Gurudwara fearing disrespect to the AGGS. But Guru Amardas had a different point of view in Raag Asa, on this subject:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਜਿਥੈ ਜਾਇ ਬਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਸੋ ਥਾਨੁ ਸੁਹਾਵਾ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Jithai Jaey Bahai Nayra Satguru So Thaan Sohava Raam Raajay.</span></span></span></em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Wherever my True Guru goes and sits, that place is beautiful, O, Akal Purkh The King.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> -----Guru Ramdas, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 450-17</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">They also have made it difficult for the </span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">Sikhs</span></span><span style="color: black"> to buy a copy of AGGS for their homes. Under empty Fatwa’s called Hukamnamas, by making artificial rules that verge on idolatry, knowing fully well that is available at every place on each PC. This all is indicative of Spiritual Ignorance.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Spiritual Ignorance;</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਗਿਆਨ ਹੀਣੰ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਪੂਜਾ</em></span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>॥</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਔਧ ਵਰਤਾਵਾ ਭਾਉ ਦੂਜਾ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>॥</em></span></p><p><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Giaan HeeNan Agiaan Poojaa, Andh Vartaavaa Bhaou Doojaa.</span></span></span></em></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Without spiritual wisdom, people worship ignorance. They grope in the dark, in the love of duality. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> -----Guru Nanak, Sloke Vaaran To Vadheek, AGGS, Page, 1412-4</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">ਅਗਿਆਨੀ</span> <span style="font-size: 12px">ਮਾਨੁਖੁ ਭਇਆ ਜੋ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੋ ਲੋਰੈ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><span style="font-size: 12px">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> <span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਰੈਣਿ ਅੰਧਾਰੀ</span> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਕਾਰੀਆ ਕਵਨ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਜਿਤੁ ਭੋਰੈ</span> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ</span> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਹਾਰਿਆ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਿਧੀ ਕਰਿ ਟੋਰੈ</span> </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ</span> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਭਈ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਨਿਧਿ ਮੋਰੈ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span> </span><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Agiani Manukh Bhaiaa Jo Nahin So Lorai, Rain AnDhaaree Kaaree-aa Kavan Jugat Jit Bhorai, Bharmato Bharmato Haari-aa Anik BiDhee Kar Torai, Kaho Nanak Kirpaa Bha-ee SaaDhsangat NiDh Morai.</span></span></span></em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Humanity is in spiritual ignorance; people see things that do not exist. The night is dark and gloomy; how will the morning dawn? Wandering, wandering all around, I have grown weary; trying all sorts of things, I have been searching.</span> <span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Says Nanak, Akal Purkh has shown mercy to me; I have found the treasure of the Sadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy. -----Guru Arjan, AGGS, Page 212-11</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">The purpose of developing spirituality is to be free of spiritual ignorance, free of selfish or destructive behavioral patterns and free to return home to our eternal home in God. All the present problems are self-inflicted in ignorance and our performance of mostly empty, meaningless rituals. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Ignorance of reality is no excuse. The only cure is self-knowledge and becoming conscious of one’s own infinite worth so that he can grow spiritually towards God. Sikhism is a way of life, to be lived with internal piety. The prescription to clean the inside is to subjugate the 5 animal instincts of Lust, Anger, Greed, Attachment to Maya, and Ego. These need to be supplanted through the development of virtues. Guru Nanak explains in Japji, AGGS, Page, 4-11, 12, and 13 that every one knows how to clean the outer filth. But it is the Sabd, which cleans the inside through positive right action on the instructions in:</span></span> </span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ਭਰੀਐ ਹਥੁ ਪੈਰੁ ਤਨੁ ਦੇਹ ॥ ਪਾਣੀ ਧੋਤੈ ਉਤਰਸੁ ਖੇਹ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> ਮੂਤ ਪਲੀਤੀ ਕਪੜ ਹੋਇ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> ਦੇ ਸਾਬੂਣ ਲਈਐ ਓਹੁ ਧੋਇ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> ਭਰੀਐ ਮਤਿ ਪਾਪਾ ਕੈ ਸੰਗ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> ਓਹ ਧੋਪੈ ਨਾਵੈ ਕੈ ਰੰਗ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> <strong> </strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Bharia Hath Pair Tan Deh, PaaNee Dhotai Outras Kheh, Moot Pleeti Kaparh Hoey,Day SabooN La-ee-ai Oh Dhoey,Bharia Mat Papaa Kai Sung, Oh Dhopai Navai Kai Rung.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">When the hands and the feet and the body are dirty, water can wash away the dirt. When the clothes are soiled and stained by urine, soap can wash them clean. <span style="color: black">But to clean the inside one needs the help of Naam </span>to progress in spirituality <span style="color: black">obtained through Sabd Guru. </span>When the intellect is stained and polluted by sin, it can only be cleansed by the Love of the Name.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black">Guru’s help</span></strong><span style="color: black"> is absolutly necessary for progress in spirituality.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਿਨੁ ਗੁਰ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਿ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਗਵਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਮਨਮੁਖ ਕਰਮ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਮਾਵਣੇ ਦਰਗਹ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਜਾਇ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Bin Gur Kinai Na Paa-eo Birtha Janam Gavaa-ey, </span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Manmukh Karam Kamaavnay Dargeh Milai Sajaa-ay</span></span><span style="color: black">.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Without the Guru, no one has obtained spirituality and they waste away their lives in vain.</span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> The self-willed self-wiled create karma, and in the Court of the Akal Purkh, they receive their punishment.</span></span><span style="color: black"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Ramdas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 33-15 & 16</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮਾਈ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਨ ਪਾਈਆ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਅਨਿਕ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਪ੍ਕਾਰ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਫਿਰਤ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਬਿਲਲਾਤੇ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮਿਲਤ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨਹੀ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਗੋਸਾਈਐ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Maa-ee Gur Bin Gian Na Paa-eeai, Anek Parkar Firat Billaatay Milat Nahee Gosaa-ee-aa.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">O mother, without the Guru, Divine knowledge is not obtained and one wanders crying and not finding God. They wander around, weeping and crying out in various ways, but the Creator of the World does not meet them. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Devgandhari, AGGS, Page, 532-11 & 12</span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨਾਨਕ ਮਨਮੁਖਿ ਔਧੁ ਪਿਆਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਬਾਝੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਗੁਰੂ ਡੁਬਾ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> </span></span></span><strong> </strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Nanak Manmukh Undh Piaar, Baajh Guru Dubaa Sansaar.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">The self-willed loves the Spiritual darkness. Without the Guru, the world is drowning.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Majh Ki Var, AGGS, Page, 138-1</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">It is the message in the Sabd Guru, which has to be respected with contemplation, deliberation and reflection in daily life as worship of the Truth. Guru Nanak stressed that it is the Truth which is God, which never gets old.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Truth;</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Sikhism is about Truth and Sikhism is Truth. That is how Guru Nanak defined God. It was Truth before time, it is true now and it will be true in the future. </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em>Truth</em> is a comprehensive term that in all of its nuances implies accuracy and honesty. It is considered to be the supreme reality and to have the ultimate meaning and value of existence. The study of Truth is part of philosophy and epistemology. Falsehood is an offensive weapon, truth is defensive armor.</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਚੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਪੁਰਾ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਣਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੀਤਾ ਕਦੇ ਨ ਪਾਟੈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸਚੋ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਚਾ ਤਿਚਰੁ ਜਾਪੀ ਜਾਪੈ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Sach Purana Hovai Naahee Seeta Kaday Na Paatai, </span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Nanak Saahib Sacho Sachaa Tichar Jaapee Jaapai</span></span><span style="color: black">.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">The Truth never gets old; and when it stitches, it does not torn again.</span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> O Nanak, the Akal Purkh and Master are the Truest of the True, manifests to mind, during contemplation.</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Sorath, AGGS, page 956-1</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"></span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"></span></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਤਜੁਗਿ ਸਤੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਸਰੀਰਾ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਵਰ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਤੈ ਗਹਿਰ ਗੰਭੀਰਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Satjug Sat Santokh Sareeraa,</span></span><span style="color: black"> Sat Sat Vartai Gehr Ganbheeraa.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">In the Golden Age of Truth, Truth and contentment filled the bodies.</span></span><span style="color: black"> Truth is pervasive, deep, profound and <strong>unfathomable</strong>. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1023-13 & 14</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕੇਤੇ ਬੰਧਨ ਜੀਅ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕੇ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਚਹੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਓਰੈ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਉਪਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਆਚਾਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Kaytay BanDhan Jee-a Kay Gurmukh Mokh Du-aar,</span></span><span style="color: black"> Sachoh Oarai Sabh Ko Ouper Such Aachaar.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">There are so many entanglements for the soul. Only as Guru willed do we find the Gate of Liberation.</span></span><span style="color: black"> Truth</span> is higher than everything; but higher still is truthful living.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 62<span style="color: black"> -11 </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Spirituality is being of the spirit. It is a devotion to the metaphysical matters and activities, which renew uplift, comfort, heal, and inspire others with whom we interact. It is the development of the self to the point that one’s spirit reaches the Holy Spirit of God, the Divine Truth, the highest spiritual achievement possible. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Spirituality is not the domain and inherited property of any religion, it can be obtained individually. Sikhism is a way of life lived according to the teachings incorporated in AGGS. But unfortunately idolatry with rituals is more in vogue in the Sikh ways of life and institutions at the present time. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">The original intentions of all religions were to promote and teach true spirituality among all. Over time they have become organized and institutionalized. They have started to control people. Development of true spirituality is independent of any church/temple/mosque or religion. God is the Holy Spirit and has no religion. There is only one religion of Righteousness, which</span><span style="color: black"> represents the individual's internal "law," to which obedience must be given. This means living in accordance with the Divine Will, Divine Creative Principle. </span><span style="color: black">Dharma essentially means living as per a universal value system.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Dharma;</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Dharma (Righteousness) is one of the Sikh virtues, which requires an individual’s active participation to obey the universal eternal laws of Mother Nature. It is the essential character or nature of all that is, of the universe and of each of us. It is the natural and rightful order and foundation of everyone and everything. It is both why things are as they are and the path to awakening. As such, dharma is the underlying Truth of all spiritual traditions. </span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ਏਕੋ ਧਰਮੁ ਦਿ੍ੜੈ ਸਚੁ ਕੋਈ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਪੂਰ ਜੁਗਿ ਜੁਗਿ ਸੋਈ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"> </span><strong> </strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Ayko Dharam Dirrhai Sach Ko-ee, Gurmit Poora Joug Joug So-ee.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">There is only one religion of </span>Righteousness<span style="color: black">; let everyone grasp this truth. One can become perfect in all ages by following the teachings incorporated in SGGS. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Basant, AGGS, 1188-15</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਰਬ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਧਰਮ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮਹਿ ਸ੍ਰੇਸਟ ਧਰਮੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮ ਜਪਿ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਕਰਮ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Sarb Dharam Meh SraysaT Dharam, Har Ko Naam Jap Nirmal Karam.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Of all religions, the best religion is to deliberate, contemplate and reflect on the Name of the Akal Purkh and maintain pure conduct. </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">-----Gur Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, 266-13</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><strong>ਮੰਨੈ ਮਗੁ ਨ ਚਲੈ</strong></span> <span style="color: black"><strong>ਪੰਥੁ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> <span style="color: black">ਮੰਨੈ</span> <span style="color: black">ਧਰਮ</span> <span style="color: black">ਸੇਤੀ ਸਨਬੰਧੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Mannai Mag Na Chalai Panth, </span></span></em><em><span style="color: black">Mannai Dharam Saytee Sanbandh.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">By acting on Akal Purkh’s Will, one follows the path of righteousness and is not led astray by rituals. </span></span><span style="color: black">The faithful are firmly bound to the righteousness. -----Guru Nanak, Japji, AGGS, Page, 3-9 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਨਾ ਜਾਣਾ ਕਰਮ ਕੇਵਡ ਤੇਰੀ ਦਾਤਿ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਰਮੁ ਧਰਮੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਤੇ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਰੇ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਜਾਤਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥ </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Nā jā</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ā karam kevad </span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">erī </span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ḏ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ā</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">. Karm Dharam Tayray Naam Ki Jaat.</span></em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">I do not know about karma, or how great Your gifts are? Actions, righteousness, social class and status, are all contained within Your Name. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page 154-2 </span></span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਬੀਰਾ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜਹਾ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਗਿਆਨੁ ਤਹ ਧਰਮੁ ਹੈ ਜਹਾ ਝੂਠੁ ਤਹ ਪਾਪੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਜਹਾ ਲੋਭੁ ਤਹ ਕਾਲੁ ਹੈ ਜਹਾ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਖਿਮਾ ਤਹ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਆਪਿ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span></p><p><em><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Kabir Jhaa Giaan Teh Dharam Hai Jhaa Jhooth Teh Paap, Jhaa Loabh Teh Kaal Hai Jhaa Khima Teh Aap.</span></span></em></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Kabir, where there is spiritual wisdom, there is righteousness. Where there is falsehood, there is sin. Where there is greed, there is death. Where there is forgiveness, there is God It self.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Kabir Sloke 155, AGGS, Page 1372</span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Discipline;</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">A spiritual <strong>discipline</strong> is necessary for spiritual growth and character. Character implies a broad understanding of life choices that a person makes for the purpose of entering in to deeper awareness and relationship with God. It emerges from a cleaning of the inner self. Sikhism is all about internal piety and absolute truthful conduct. “We humans are undisciplined people. So we let God discipline us with action and more action”. For spiritual growth one has to follow the prescribed discipline of his faith in his way of living. Guru Nanak describes the true way of life in Raag Bilawal;</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਾਚੀ ਰਹਤ ਸਾਚਾ ਮਨਿ ਸੋਈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਮਨਮੁਖ ਕਥਨੀ ਹੈ ਪਰੁ ਰਹਤ ਨ ਹੋਈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਨਾਵਹੁ ਭੂਲੇ ਥਾਉ ਨ ਕੋਈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Saachee Rahat Saacha Man So-ee, Manmukh Kathnee Hai Par Rahat Na Ho-ee, Navoh Bhoolay Thaou Ko-ee.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Through the lifestyle of Truth, the True Akal Purkh comes to dwell in the mind. The self-willed talks about it, but does not practice it.</span> Forgetting the Name, he finds no place of rest<span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Bilawal, AGGS, Page, 831-12 & 13 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Guru Arjan ponders in Raag Devgandhari;</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਰਤ ਫਿਰੇ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਨ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਭੇਖ ਮੋਹਨ ਰਹਤ ਨਿਰਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕਥਨ ਸੁਨਾਵਨ ਗੀਤ ਨੀਕੇ ਗਾਵਨ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਧਰਤੇ ਗਾਰ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਅਤਿ ਸੁੰਦਰ ਬਹੁ ਚਤੁਰ ਸਿਆਨੇ ਬਿਦਿਆ ਰਸਨਾ ਚਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਮਾਨ ਮੋਹ ਮੇਰ ਤੇਰ ਬਿਬਰਜਿਤ ਏਹ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਖੰਡੇ ਧਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨਿ ਭਵਜਲੁ ਤਰੀਅਲੇ ਪ੍ਭ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਸੰਤ ਸੰਗਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Karat Firay Ban Bhaykh Mohan Rahat Niraar, Kathan Sunaavan Neekay Gaavan Man Meh Dhartay Gaar. Ut Sundar Boh Chatur Siaanay Bidiaa Rasnaa Chaar, Maan Moh Mayr Tayr Bibarjat Ayh Maarg Khanday Dhaar, Koh Nanak Tin Bhavjal Tari-alay Prabh Kirpa Sant Sangaar.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Some wander around in the forests, wearing religious robes. But the Fascinating Akal Purkh remains distant from them. They talk, preach, and sing their lovely songs, but within their minds, the filth of their sins remains. They may be very beautiful, extremely clever, wise and educated, and they may speak very sweetly. But to forsake pride, emotional attachment, and the sense of 'mine and yours', is the path of the double-edged sword. They alone will swim across the terrifying world-ocean, who, by God's Grace, joins the Society of the Saints, says Nanak. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Devgandhari, AGGS, Page, 534-12</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Spirituality is preparing, body and mind, to receive God's inspiration and translating it in thinking, speech, and actions that lead to the formation of virtuous habits, the foundation of character. Developing Humility, Love, Contentment, Truth and Compassion is the Goal of Life. They lead to Spiritual Enlightenment, which unites the Conscious Mind with the Universal Consciousness. The Divine love & fear of the Creator removes the Ego, the goal of true spirituality. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Kabir says in Raag Kidara, on Fear & Love of God:</span></span> </span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਭੈ ਬਿਚਿ ਭਾਉ ਭਾਇ ਕੋਊ ਬੂਝਹਿ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਭਾਈ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜੇਤੇ ਘਟ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਮਹਿ ਭਾਵੈ ਤਿਸਹਿ ਪੀਆਈ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> </span></span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Bhai Bich Bhaaou Ko-ou Boojheh Har Ras Paavai Bhaa-ee.</span></span></em> <em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Je</span></span></em></span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">e g</span></span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">at amri</span></span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> sab</span></span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> hī mėh b</span></span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">āvai </span></span></em><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">isėh pī▫ā▫ī</span></span></em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">.</span></span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">In the Fear of God, is the Love of God? Only those few who understand Its Love obtain the sublime essence of the It, O Siblings of Destiny.</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">As many hearts as there are - in all of them, is Its Ambrosial Nectar; as It pleases, It causes them to drink it. -----Kabir, Raag Kidara, AGGS, Page, 1123-15</span></span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can Spirituality be obtained by mere verbal talk?</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px">Sikhs are not obeying the teachings to modify their way of life and are in total spiritual ignorance. But spirituality cannot be obtained by mere talk or following hollow rituals. It depends on the favor of God’s Grace. </span></span><span style="color: black">Guru Nanak, explains this in Raag Asa:</span></span> </p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਗਿਆਨੁ ਨ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਗਲੀ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਈ ਢੂਢੀਐ ਕਥਨਾ ਕਰੜਾ ਸਾਰੁ</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਤਾ ਪਾਈਐ ਹੋਰ ਹਿਕਮਤਿ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਖੁਆਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Giaan Na Galee-ee Dhudhee-ai Kathna Karrhaa Saar, Karam Milai Ta Paa-eeai Hoar Hikmat Hukam Khuaar.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Wisdom cannot be found through mere words. To explain it is as hard as iron. When the Lord bestows Its Grace, then alone it is received; other tricks and orders are useless. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 465-1 & 2</span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality or love of God be bought?</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Guru Arjan in Chaubolay Sloke and advises a dedicated Sikh “Samman” that Spiritual Wisdom or the love of God cannot be bought. God cannot be bribed. Unfortunately bribing God is very prevalent now days as a way of liberation in different ritual forms;</span></span> </p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੰਮਨ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜਉ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਇਸ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕੀ ਦਮ ਕ੍ਯ੍ਯਿਹੁ ਹੋਤੀ ਸਾਟ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਰਾਵਨ ਹੁਤੇ ਸੁ ਰੰਕ ਨਹਿ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਿਰ ਦੀਨੇ ਕਾਟਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Samman Jaou Iss Praym Kee Dam Kehoh Hoatee Saat, Raavan Hutay So Runk Neh Jin Sir Deenay Kaat.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">O Samman, if one could buy the love of God with money, then consider the king Rawan, who was not poor, but he could not buy it, even though he offered one of his heads to Shiva. </span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Arjan, Chaubolay Slokes, AGGS, Page, 1368-18 </span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Kabir refers to the way bribing God in Raag Gauri: </span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਕੰਚਨ ਸਿਉ ਪਾਈਐ</em></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਨਹੀ ਤੋਲਿ </em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em> ਮਨੁ ਦੇ ਰਾਮੁ ਲੀਆ ਹੈ</em></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਮੋਲਿ</em></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span></span><em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></em></p><p><em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"></span></em><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">Kanchan Si-o Paa-ee-ai Nahee Tol, Man Day Raam Lee-aa Hai Mol.</span></span></em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">God cannot be obtained by offering your weight in gold. But I have bought God by giving my mind. </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> -----Kabir, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 327-10</span></span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality be obtained by visiting religious places?</span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Spirituality cannot be obtained by mere visiting religious places as explained by </span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Guru Amardas, Raag Dhanasari:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸੇਵਕ ਸਿਖ ਪੂਜਣ ਸਭਿ ਆਵਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਗਾਵਹਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਊਤਮ ਬਾਨੀ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਗਾਵਿਆ ਸੁਣਿਆ ਤਿਨ ਕਾ ਹਰਿ ਥਾਇ ਪਾਵੈ ਜਿਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਆਗਿਆ ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਮਾਨੀ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span> <span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Sayvak Sikh PoojaN Sabh Aaveh Sabh Gaaveh Har Har Ootam Baani, Gaaviaa SuNiaa Tin Ka Har Thaey Paavai Jin Satgur Ki Aagia Sat Sat Kar Maanee.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">All the Sikhs come to worship and adore God; they sing the sublime Bani of the Eternal Akal Purkh. Their singing and listening is approved by God; they accept the Order of the True Guru as totally True.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> -----Guru Amardas, Raag Dhanasari, AGGS, Page, 669-14 & 15 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Guru Amardas further clarifies this in Raag Vadhans: </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਤਿਗੁਰ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨੋ</span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਵੇਖਦਾ ਜੇਤਾ ਜਗਤੁ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਡਿਠੈ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਜਿਚਰ ਸਬਦਿ ਨ ਕਰੇ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ </span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> </span></span></span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></strong></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Satgur No Sabh Ko Vaykhda Jayta Jagat Sansaar, Dhithai Mukat Na Hova-ee Jichar Sabd Na Karay Veechaar.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">All the living beings of the world behold the True Guru but one is not liberated by merely seeing, unless one contemplates and deliberates on the message of the Sabd with reflection in daily life. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> ------Guru Amardas, Raag Vadhans, AGGS, Page, 594-11</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">The word Vichar is repeated at least 378 times in AGGS but how many actually do it.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Are the Sikhs carrying the message home to change their life style? An individual has to change himself by reflecting on the message; otherwise Bani itself is not a magic potion. It needs individual’s action. Those who behold the Akal Purkh do not fathom It. Those who fathom the Akal Purkh cannot behold It. One cannot fathom the unfathomable. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਹਰਿ ਅਗਮ ਅਗਾਹੁ ਅਗਾਧਿ ਨਿਰਾਲਾ </span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਗੁਰ ਗੋਪਾਲਾ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥ </span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਮਤਿ ਤਾਰੇ ਤਾਰਣਹਾਰਾ ਮੇਲਿ ਲਏ ਰੰਗਿ ਲੀਨਾ ਹੇ </span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong> </strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="font-size: 12px">Har Agam Agaah Agaadhi Niralaa. Har an</span></em></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> na pā▫ī▫ai gur gopālā. Sa</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">gur ma</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span> </em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">āre </span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">āra</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">hārā mel la▫e rang līnā he.</span></em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">The Akal Purkh is inaccessible, inscrutable, unfathomable and unattached. Its limits cannot be found; the Guru is the God of the World. Through the Teachings of the True Guru, It carries us across to the other side uniting with It those who are colored by Its Love. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1027-17</span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality be obtained with filth in side?</span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Kabir clarifies in Raag Asa about inside filth-484-14 &15: </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਔਤਰ ਮੈਲੁ ਜੇ ਤੀਰਥ ਨਾਵੈ ਤਿਸ ਬੈਕੁੰਠ ਨ ਜਾਨਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਲੋਕ ਪਤੀਣੇ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਰਾਮੁ ਅਯਾਨਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Untar Mail Jay Tirath Naavai Tis Baikunth Na Janan, Loak PateeNay Kachoo Na Hovai Naahee Raam Iaanaa.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">With filth within the heart, even if one bathes at sacred places of pilgrimage, shall not go to heaven. Nothing is gained by trying to please other people as the God cannot be fooled.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਪੂਜਹੁ ਰਾਮੁ ਏਕੁ ਹੀ ਦੇਵਾ </span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਸਾਚਾ ਨਾਵਣੁ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸੇਵਾ </span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Poojoh Raam Ayk Hee Dayva, Saachaa NaavaN Hur Ki Sayva.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Worship the One Divine God. The true cleansing bath is service to the Guru. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Similarly Guru Nanak declares in Raag Parbhati, that worship is useless with filth inside.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਕੋ੍ਧ ਮਹਾ ਅਹੰਕਾਰਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਪੂਜਾ ਕਰਹਿ ਬਹੁਤੁ ਬਿਸਥਾਰਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਕਰਿ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਤਨਿ ਚਕ੍ ਬਣਾਏ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਔਤਰ ਕੀ ਮਲੁ ਕਬ ਹੀ ਨ ਜਾਏ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਇਤੁ ਸੰਜਮਿ ਪ੍ਭੁ ਕਿਨ ਹੀ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਭਗਉਤੀ ਮੁਦਾ੍ ਮਨੁ ਮੋਹਿਆ ਮਾਇਆ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Man Meh Krodh Mhaa Ahankaraa, Pooja Kareh Bahut Bisthara, Kar Isnaan Tan Chakar BaNaey, Untar Ki Mal Kab Hee Na Jaaey, It Sanjam Prabh Kin Hee Na Paaeaa</span></em> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>,</em></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Bhag-utee Mudraa Man Mohi-aa Maa-i-aa</span></span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Arial'">.</span></em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Within the mind dwell anger and massive ego. Worship services are performed with great pomp and ceremony. Ritual cleansing baths are taken, and sacred marks are applied to the body. But still, the filth and pollution within never depart. No one has ever found God in this way.</span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> The sacred mudras - ritualistic hand gestures -- are made, but the mind remains enticed by Maya. </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Arial'"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Parbhati, AGGS, Page, 1348-1</span></span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality be obtained by outward show of piety e.g. bowing etc?</span></span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Spirituality cannot be achieved by the various postures of the body like bowing and going down on knees etc; Guru Nanak mulls this in Asa Di Var, 470-15:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੀਸਿ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਨਿਵਾ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਇਐ ਕਿਆ ਥੀਐ ਜਾ ਰਿਦੈ ਕੁਸੁਧੇ ਜਾਹਿ </span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> </span></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Sees Nivaae-ai Kia Theeai Ja Ridhai Kasudhay Jaaeh.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">What can be achieved by bowing the head, when the heart is impure?</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Bhai Gurdas ponders on the same issue: </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਸਿਰ ਤਲਵਾਏ ਪਾਈਐ ਚਮਗਿਦੜ ਜੂਹੈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮੜੀ ਮਸਾਣੀ ਜੇ ਮਿਲੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਖੁਡਾਂ ਚੂਹੈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black"> </span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Sir Talvaa-ay Paa-eeai Chamgidharh Joohai, Marhee MasaaNee Jay Milai Vich Khudan Choohay.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">If bowing could grant liberation than bats hanging upside down in the forest or the rats living in crematories in seclusion should get liberation in their holes. -----Bhai Gurdas, Var 36-Pauri, 13</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality be obtained by verbal recitation of the Path with out relishing it? </span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Answer is big NO. I have been reciting Path daily since the age of 12 for 63 years, which was just mechanical recitation with out understanding. I have read SGGS, over 63 times from A-Z in my life but it was mechanical reading with out understanding and reflection. But the last 5 readings of SGGS read very slowly were more enjoyable. When I started understanding its meaning with the help of dictionaries, translations and further reflections on the message in my daily life, I became more satisfied. I relish the “Sabd”, and occasionally become overwhelmed and get lost in it.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">Guru Amardas replies my question;</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਪੰਡਿਤ ਪੜਹਿ ਸਾਦੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਮਾਇਆ ਮਨੁ ਭਰਮਾਵਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black"> </span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Pundit Parheh Saad Na Paaveh, Doojai Bhaey Maya Man Bharmaaveh.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">The religious scholars read, but they do not taste the essence due to unfocussed mind in the love of duality and Maya. -----Guru Amardas, Raag Majh, AGGS, Page, 116-18 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">He further stresses;</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਪਾਠੁ ਪੜੈ ਨਾ ਬੂਝਈ ਭੇਖੀ ਭਰਮਿ ਭੁਲਾਇ </em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>॥</em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em> ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਹਰਿ ਸਦਾ ਪਾਇਆ ਰਸਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਸਮਾਇ </em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>॥</em></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span> </em></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Path Parhai Na Boojha-ee Bharam Bhulaey, Gurmatee Har Sada Paaeaa Rasna Har Ras Smaaey.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Akal Purkh cannot be understood by reading scriptures; the deceitful pretenders are deluded by doubt. It is always found through the Guru’s teachings, and the tongue is permeated with the Sublime Essence It. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 66-18 & 19</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਥਨੀ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਦਨੀ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਹਉਮੈ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਜਾਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Kathnee Badnee Na Paaeeai Haoumai Vichoh Jaaey.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Akal Purkh is not obtained by mouthing mere words, but by rooting out ego from within.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 32-19</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਙੰਙਾ ਙਿਆਨੁ ਨਹੀ ਮੁਖ ਬਾਤਉ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਅਨਿਕ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਸਾਸਤ੍ ਕਰਿ ਭਾਤਉ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਙਿਆਨੀ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਦਿ੍ੜ ਸੋਉ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਕਹਤ ਸੁਨਤ ਕਛੁ ਜੋਗੁ ਨ ਹੋਊ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span></p><p> </p><p><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Nganga Ngiaan Mukh Batou, Anek Jugat Saaster Kar Bhatou, Ngianee Soey Ja Kai Dirrh Souoo, Kehat Sunat Kuch Joag Na Houoo.</span></span></em></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">NGANGA: Spiritual wisdom is not obtained by mere words of mouth. It is not obtained through the various debates of the Shaastras and scriptures. They alone are spiritually wise, whose minds are firmly fixed on the Akal Purkh.</span> <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Hearing and telling stories, no one attains Yoga. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 251</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਵੇਦ ਕਹਹਿ ਵਖਿਆਣ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਣਾ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਪੜਿਐ</em></span> <span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਨਾਹੀ ਭੇਦੁ ਬੁਝਿਐ ਪਾਵਣਾ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em> ਖਟੁ ਦਰਸਨ ਕੈ ਭੇਖਿ ਕਿਸੈ ਸਚਿ ਸਮਾਵਣਾ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਸਚਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਅਲਖੁ ਸਬਦਿ ਸੁਹਾਵਣਾ </em></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ve</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ḏ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> kahėh vak</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">i▫ā</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> an</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṯ</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> na pāv</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span>ā. Parhia Naahee Bhayd Bujhia PaavNaa.</em> <em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">K</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">at </span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ḏ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">arsan kai b</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ek</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> kisai sac</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> samāv</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ā</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">. Sac</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ā purak</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> alak</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ẖ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> saba</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ḏ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> suhāva</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'">ṇ</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">ā</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">The Vedas speak and expound on the God, but they do not know Its limits. Akal Purkh’s mystery is revealed only by understanding and not by studying the scriptures. There are six pathways in the Shaastras, but how rare are those who merge in the True God through them. The True Akal Purkh is Unknowable; through the Word of Its Sabd, we are embellished. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Majh, AGGS, Page, 148-3</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black">Sabd can only be relished with spiritual growth as explained by the following hymns;</span></strong></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਥਾਲੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਤੈ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਹਰਿ ਭੋਜਨੁ ਔਮਿ੍ਤ ਸਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਜਿਤੁ ਖਾਧੈ ਮਨੁ ਤਿ੍ਪਤੀਐ ਪਾਈਆ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Thaalai Vich Tai Vastoo Pa-eeou Har Bhojan Anmrit Saar, Jit Khaadhai Man Tirpateeai Paa-eeai Mokh Duaar.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Three things (Truth, Contentment, and Contemplation) have been placed on the plate, which is the sublime, ambrosial food of the Akal Purkh. Eating this, the mind is satisfied, and the Door of Salvation is found. -----Guru Amardas, Raag Sorath, AGGS, Page, 645-12</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Guru Arjan confirms the same in Mundavani-1429-12 & 13</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><span style="font-size: 12px">ਥਾਲ </span></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਵਿਚਿ ਤਿੰਨਿ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਸਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖ ਵੀਚਾਰੋ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਔਮਿ੍ਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਕਾ ਪਇਓ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਸਭਸੁ ਅਧਾਰੋ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜੇ ਕੋ ਖਾਵੈ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਭੁੰਚੈ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਹੋਇ ਉਧਾਰੋ </strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>॥</strong></span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'GurbaniAkharHeavy'"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Thaal Vich Tinn Vastoo Paeeou Sat Santokh Veecharo, Anmrit Naam Thakur Ka Paeou Jis Ka Sabhs Adhaaro, Jay Ko Khavai Jay Ko Bhunchai Tis Ka Hoey Oudharo.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Three things Truth, Contentment and Contemplation have been placed on the plate. The Ambrosial Nectar of the God’s Naam has also been placed upon it; it is the Support of all. One who eats and relishes it shall be saved.</span></span></p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can spirituality be obtained by rituals? </span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Kabir in Raag Maru 1103-7 points out;</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜਟਾ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਭਸਮ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਲੇਪਨ ਕੀਆ ਕਹਾ ਗੁਫਾ ਮਹਿ ਬਾਸੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਮਨੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜੀਤੇ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤਿਆ ਜਾਂ ਤੇ ਬਿਖਿਆ ਤੇ ਹੋਇ ਉਦਾਸੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Jataa Bhasam Laypan Kee-aa Kaha Gufaa Meh Baas, Man Jeetay Jug Jeetiaa Jaan Tay Bikhia Tay Hoey Oudaas.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">What is the use of wearing matted hair, smearing the body with ashes, and living in a cave? Conquering the mind, one conquers the world, and then remains detached from corruption.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Guru Nanak confirms the above in Raag Ramkali, 903-3 that to get on the spiritual path, one has to get the inside clean; </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਨਾਵਹੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਧੋਵਹੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਤਿਲਕੁ ਚੜਾਵਹੁ ਸੁਚ ਵਿਣੁ ਸੋਚ ਨ ਹੋਈ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Navoh Dhovoh Tilak Charhavoh Souch ViN Soach Na Ho-ee.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">You may bathe and wash, and apply a ritualistic tilak mark to your forehead, but without inner purity, there is no understanding. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">He further clarifies in Asa Di Var-472-4</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਸੁਚ ਹੋਵੈ ਤਾ ਸਚੁ ਪਾਈਐ </em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>॥</em></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></em></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em>Souch Hovai Ta Such Paaeeai.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">If you are clean in side, you will obtain the True Lord.</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">It is the understanding, contemplation with deliberation and controlling the mind with reflection of the message in daily life which helps in the spiritual growth. </span></span> </span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਮਨਿ ਜੀਤੈ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> </span><span style="color: black"> </span><span style="color: black"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><em>Man Jeetai Jug Jeet.</em></span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Conquer your own mind, and conquer the world. </span><span style="color: black">-----Guru Nanak, Japji, AGGS, Page, 6-17 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਮਨੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਬਸਿ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਆਵੈ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਜੇ ਪੂਰਨ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਹੋਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'"> </span></span> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Man Bas Aavai Nanaka Jay Pooran Kirpa Hoey.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Akal Purkh’s Grace only can control mind. It can only be obtained by Its service by becoming a better human (</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">). -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 298-17 </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Kabir ponders on Spirituality & Liberation in Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 324:</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">If Yoga could be obtained by wandering around naked, then all the deer of the forest would be liberated. If the spiritual perfection could be obtained by shaving the head, then why haven't sheep found liberation? If someone could save himself by celibacy, why then haven't eunuchs obtained the state of supreme dignity? Kabir says that without the God's Name, none has found spirituality & salvation?</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Guru Arjan Ponders in Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1003- </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Someone may practice intensive meditation, and discipline of his body, but his mind still runs around in ten directions. The celibate practices celibacy, but his heart is filled with pride. The Sannyaasi wanders around at sacred shrines of pilgrimage, but he is mindless. The temple dancers tie bells around their ankles to earn their living. Others go on fasts, take vows, perform the six rituals and wear religious robes for show. Some sing songs and melodies and hymns, but their minds do not sing of the God. Says Nanak, I met the Perfect Guru, and then the anxiety of my mind was removed.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Can Spiritual wisdom be obtained by saying Ram Ram etc? </span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Guru Amardas replies in Raag Gujri, AGGS, Page, 491-1 & 2 </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਰਾਮ ਰਾਮ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਭੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕੋ ਕਹੈ ਕਹਿਐ ਰਾਮੁ ਨ ਹੋਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਰਾਮੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ਤਾ ਫਲੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਕੋਇ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">Raam Raam Sabh Ko Kahai Kahai-aa Raam Na Ho-ee, Gurparsadee Raam Man Basai Ta Fal Paavai Koey.</span></span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Everyone chants the God's Name, Ram, Ram, but by such chanting, It is not obtained. By Guru's Grace, It comes to dwell in the mind, and then, the fruits are obtained. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">The spirit, mind and sensuality form a triad of reality. To achieve harmony a delicate balance must be maintained with contentment in the unity with the universe. Spirit is the non-physical aspect of existence. Mind is a bridge between spirit and body. It is by rooting out self deceit by the selfless service that one prepares himself for the possible blessing of God’s Grace as elucidated by Guru Angad in Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 470-10:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਇ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੇਵਾ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕਰੇ ਤਾ ਕਿਛੁ ਪਾਏ ਮਾਨੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨਾਨਕ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਲਗਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਲਗਾ ਸੋ ਪਰਵਾਨੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black"> </span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Aap Gavaaey Sayva Karay Ta Kich Paaey Maan, Nanak Jis No Lagaa Tis Milai Lagaa So Parvaan.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">But if he eliminates his self-conceit and then performs service, he shall be honored. O Nanak, if he merges with the one with whom he is attached, his attachment becomes acceptable. Selfless service of the humanity is only useful if done without expecting anything in return as explained by Guru Angad, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 469-3:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਧਰਮੀ</em></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਧਰਮੁ</em></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em>ਕਰਹਿ ਗਾਵਾਵਹਿ ਮੰਗਹਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ </em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'"><em>॥</em></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em> </em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><em> </em></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Dharmee Dharam Kareh Gavaaveh Mangeh Mokh Duaar.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">The righteous waste their righteousness, by asking for the door of salvation.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Selfless service leads to spiritual growth and ultimately, we come to understand that serving humanity and serving God are one and the same. In other words selfless service is meditation in action.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Spirituality is a two-stroke process. The upward stroke relates to inner growth through reflection on the teachings of the Sikh Gurus and the downward stroke manifests improvements in the reality around us as a result of the inward change as we root out the ego with Its Grace.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਹਉਮੈ ਏਹੋ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਹੁ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਕਮੁ ਹੈ ਪਇਐ ਕਿਰਤਿ ਫਿਰਾਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਹਉਮੈ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਦੀਰਘ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਰੋਗੁ ਹੈ ਦਾਰੂ ਭੀ ਇਸੁ ਮਾਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜੇ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਆਪਣੀ ਤਾ ਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਸਬਦੁ ਕਮਾਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong> ਨਾਨਕੁ ਕਹੈ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੁ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਣਹੁ ਜਨਹੁ ਇਤੁ ਸੰਜਮਿ ਦੁਖ ਜਾਹਿ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><em><span style="color: black">Houmai Ayho Hukam Hai Paeaa Kirat Firaaeh, Houmai Deeragh Roag Hai Daroo Bhee Iss Maaeh, Kirpa Karay Jay aapnee Ta Gur Ka Sabd Kamaeh, Nanak Kahai SuNoh Janoh It Sanjam Dukh Jaaeh.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">This ego exists by the Akal Purkh's Order; people wander according to their past actions. Ego is a chronic disease, but it contains its own cure as well.</span></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">If It grants Its Grace, one acts according to the Teachings of the Guru's Sabd. Nanak says, listen people: in this way, troubles depart:</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> -----Guru Angad, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 466</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><strong><span style="color: black">Spiritual practices</span></strong><span style="color: black"> can be sound and helpful, but they can become the home of superstition and magic, too.<strong> NO</strong> external piety or body position or sequence of words or numbers, has <em>ever</em> made God respond any better to any prayer, nor made heaven or earth or hell or anything else supernaturally bend to anyone's bidding. Devotional aids are there to help <em>you</em> direct <em>yourself</em> toward God. The moment you believe they have any powers or merit of their own, you believe in magic, idolatry, and you are in breach of the teachings of AGGS as explained by Guru Arjan In his Sahskirti Sloke 60-1359: </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'"><span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਸਿਆਮਲੰ</span> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਮਧੁਰ ਮਾਨੁਖ੍ਯ੍ਯੰ ਰਿਦਯੰ ਭੂਮਿ ਵੈਰਣਹ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Tahoma'"> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਨਿਵੰਤਿ</span> <span style="font-family: 'AnmolUniPr'">ਹੋਵੰਤਿ ਮਿਥਿਆ ਚੇਤਨੰ ਸੰਤ ਸ੍ਵਜਨਹ </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Siaamlan Madhur Manukhn Ridhian Bhoom VairNeh, Nivanti Hovanti Mithia Chaytanan Sant Savajneh.</span></em></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">The mortal is beautiful and speaks sweet words, but in the farm of his heart, he harbors cruel vengeance. He pretends to bow in worship, but he is false. Beware of him, O friendly Saints. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">By altering the patterned performance of the conscious mind, the ego gradually diminishes and the stance of the individual shifts in its relationship to space and time. Perceptions heighten, alternate flows of powerful and pertinent knowledge and creativity results, and the mind is elevated to a new level of intellectual and intuitive functioning. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black">The Guru, faith, Truth, and the capital of God’s name are necessary for spiritual growth. Without Guru there is no spiritual, Divine knowledge. Without faith there is no meditation. Without Truth there is no credit and without capital there is no balance. The best act is the desire to help mankind, without which human birth is accursed. Alms, gifts, penance and sacrifices are not equal to Philanthropy. </span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Conclusion:</span></span></span></strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਇਸੁ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਕਰਣੀ ਹੈ ਸਾਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਹੋਰ ਮੋਹੁ ਗੁਬਾਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਸਬਦੇ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਖੈ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> ਸਬਦੇ ਗਤਿ ਮਤਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> <span style="font-size: 12px"><em>Iss Jag Meh Sabd KarNee Hai Saar, Bin Sabdai Hoar Moh Gubaar, Sabday Naam Rakhai Uri Dhaar, Sabday Gat Mit Mokh Duaar.</em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">In this world, the practice of the Sabd is the most excellent occupation. Without the Sabd, everything else is the darkness of emotional attachment. Through the Sabd, the Naam is enshrined within the heart. Through the Sabd, one obtains clear understanding and the door of salvation.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"> -----Guru Nanak, Raag Parbhatee Bibhas, AGGS, Page, 1342</span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">Prayer, Meditation, Remembrance of the Word of God, Contentment, acceptance of the Will of God, Morality, Selflessness, Integrity, Honor, Dignity, Trustworthiness, Restraint, and Deferred gratification of desires lead to spiritual progress As spiritual awakening begins, motivations inevitably shift from the egocentric toward the desire to serve the others. This kind of service is seen as being absolutely necessary if the awakening and development are to continue. Spiritual growth requires a life of service. A person is not a conqueror in the spiritual sense unless he is willing to give his inner life in exchange for any significant advantage. Each of us must bring out what is best in him. When our lower nature no longer exerts itself in us, whatever may be the provocation, then self-conquest is complete. One should be concerned about internal cleanliness and discipline rather external cleanliness. The discipline of life is very wonderful for mind and body. Spiritual disciplines help to keep our relationship with God in good working order, and even help develop intimacy. Disciplines and practices are tools that are a part of cooperating with the Spirit on the task of remaking us into what God wants us to be, as explained by Guru Arjan in Raag Asa 12-8 & 9:</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਜਪੁ ਤਪੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ੰਜਮੁ ਧਰਮੁ ਨ ਕਮਾਇਆ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸੇਵਾ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਾਧ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਨ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਇਆ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਕਹੁ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਨਾਨਕ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਹਮ ਨੀਚ ਕਰੰਮਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਸਰਣਿ</strong></span></span> <span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"><strong>ਪ</strong></span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'">ਰੇ ਕੀ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਸਰਮਾ </span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Mangal'">॥</span></span><span style="color: black"><span style="font-family: 'Raavi'"> </span></span> </p><p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px"><em><span style="color: black">Jap Tap Sanjam Dharam Na Kamaaeaa, Sayva Sadh Na Jaaneaa Har Raaeaa, Koh Nanak Ham Neech Karma, SaraN Paray Kee Raakhoh Sarma.</span></em></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black">I have not practiced meditation, self-discipline, self-restraint or righteous living. I have not served the Holy; I have not acknowledged the God. My actions are contemptible, O, Akal Purkh I seek Your Sanctuary; please, preserve my honor, says Nanak! </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="color: black"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">The danger to the Sikh philosophy comes from degeneration of morals, beclouded mental horizons and atrophy of the human spiritual nature. Individuals put their vested interest first, and truths and ideals go begging. Moral life cannot be lived in aloofness. Morality is the nurse of spirituality. For the truly faithful, no miracle is necessary, but for those who doubt, no miracle is sufficient.</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Cordially,</span></span></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: black"><span style="font-size: 12px"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Virinder S. Grewal</span></span></span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="vsgrewal48895, post: 105891, member: 8024"] [CENTER][LEFT][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [/LEFT][/CENTER][LEFT][/LEFT] [CENTER][LEFT][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [/LEFT][/CENTER][LEFT][/LEFT] [CENTER][CENTER][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]SIKH VALUES ACCORDING TO SABD GURU[/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/CENTER] [CENTER][FONT=Arial Unicode MS][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/CENTER][/CENTER] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][B]The values of Sikh faith are contained in AGGS. Their emphasis is mostly on subjugating the lower human instincts and developing the higher virtues, to become a Guru Willed [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]([/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]) [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]better person[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black].[/COLOR][COLOR=black][B] AGGS is a path to grow in spirituality, to find the Higher Power in the Higher Self hidden behind the lower self of ego ([/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਹਉਮੈ[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi])[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black].[/COLOR][COLOR=black][B][/B][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Raavi]ਭੂਲੇ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਜਿਨਹਿ ਬਤਾਇਆ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi] ਐਸਾ ਗੁਰੁ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਪਾਇਆ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi] ਸਿਮਰਿ ਮਨਾ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਚਿਤਾਰੇ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi] ਬਸਿ ਰਹੇ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਗੁਰ ਚਰਨ ਪਿਆਰੇ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/SIZE][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I]Bhoolay Maarag Jineh Bataa-i-aa, Aisaa Gur Vadbhaagee Paa-i-aa, Simar Manaa Raam Naam Chitaaray, Bas Rahay Hirdai Gur Charan Pi-aaray.[/I] Guru places the one who strays back on the Path; such a Guru is found by great good fortune. Meditate; contemplate on Its Name, O mind. The Beloved Feet of the Guru abide within my heart. [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Arjan, Raag Bilawal, AGGS, Page, 803-18 & 19[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]The Principles laid down in Sabd Guru, when followed honestly, earnestly, willingly, with total acceptance, and truthfully lead to spiritual progress by rooting out ego, doubt, duality, lust, greed, anger and bondage. [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Raavi][I]ਬਿਨੁ[/I][/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਸਬਦੈ[/I][/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਭਰਮੁ ਨ ਚੂਕਈ ਨਾ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਹਉਮੈ ਜਾਇ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I] [/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਬਿਨੁ ਪ੍ਰੀਤੀ[/I][/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਭਗਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਥਾਇ ਨ ਪਾਇ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][/FONT] [I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Bin Sabdai Bharam Na Chooka-ee Na Vichoh Haoumai Jaaey, bin pareetee bhagat na hova-ee bin sabdai thaa-ay na paa-ay.[/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Without understanding and reflecting on Sabd, doubt is not dispelled, and egotism is not eliminated from within. [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]With out love, there is no devotional worship and without the Sabd, no one finds acceptance.[/FONT][/COLOR] [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 67-4[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Sabd Guru incorporates the teachings of 6, Sikh Gurus, 15 Bhagats of different faith, 17 Bhatts, and 3 Sikh Bards, thus making it a universal secular Holy book. [/COLOR]The holy text comprises over 5000 Sabds or hymns which are poetically constructed; are designed to be sung in 31 musical Ragas – only a few know about their modes. These hymns impart instructions for spiritual growth of the humanity. It also contains a hymn of Guru Gobind Singh at Page, 1429-7 as hymn # 54 ,which is a reply to hymn#53, Dohira, of Guru Tegh Bahadur (1429-6):[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਲੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਛੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਟਕਿਓ ਬੰਧਨ ਪਰੇ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਹੋਤ ਉਪਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਅਬ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਓਟ ਹਰਿ ਗਜ ਜਿਉ ਹੋਹੁ ਸਹਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]੫੩[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi](ਮ–੯)[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Bal Chutkeo Bandhan Paray Kachoo Na Hoat Oupaa-ey, Kaoh Nanak Ub OaT Gaj Jeo Hoh Sahaa-ey. (M-9)[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]My strength is exhausted, and I am in bondage; I cannot do anything at all. Says Nanak, now, the Akal Purkh is my Support; and will help me, as It did the elephant.[/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਲੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਹੋਆ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਬੰਧਨ ਛੁਟੇ ਸਭੁ ਕਿਛੁ ਹੋਤ ਉਪਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਨਾਨਕ ਸਭੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਛੁ ਤੁਮਰੈ ਹਾਥ ਮੈ ਤੁਮ ਹੀ ਹੋਤ ਸਹਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]੫੪[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]([/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]–[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]੧੦)[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Bal Hoaa Bandhan Chutay Sabh Kich Hoat Oupaa-ey, Nanak Sabh Kich Tumrai Haath Mai Tum Hee Hoat Sahaa-ey. (M-10)[/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]My strength has been restored, and my bonds have been broken; now, I can do everything. Nanak: everything is in Your hands, O, Akal Purkh; You are my Helper and Support.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black] -----[/COLOR][COLOR=black]Ref- Mahan Kosh & Old Birs in the library of Punjabi University, Patiala.[/COLOR][COLOR=green][FONT=AnmolLipiHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Sikhs were instructed by the 10th Guru that after his death there will be no living guru as his successor after his death. Sikhs are to follow the “Sabd Gur/AGGS” which is the embodiment of the instructions for the humanity to follow. Sikh Gurus never claimed themselves to be God. Guru Gobind Singh writes in “Bachitar Natak,” his autobiography on this question.[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਜੇ ਹਮ ਕੋ ਪਰਮੇਸ਼ਰ ਉਚਰ ਹੈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਤੇ ਸਭ ਨਰਕ ਕੁੰਡ ਮਹਿ ਪਰਿ ਹੈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Jay Ham Ko Parmayshar Ouchar Hai, Tay Sabh Narak Kound Meh Par Hai.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Whosoever calls me God, will fall in to the ditch of hell.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Hence Sabd Guru is not to be considered God but only respected like other Sikh Gurus and followed in thought, word, and spirit the teachings contained there in. It aims to root out idolatry, ritualism and ignorance of worship, Spiritual Ignorance, from the Sikh faith. AGGS contains the tools for the humanity to progress in spirituality to become better human being. But unfortunately this universal book of spiritual wisdom has been hijacked, made in to an idol and kept in lock and key by the uneducated clergy and Sikh politicians, for their own personal, egotistical reasons. They restrict its use in the Hotels, where smoking and drinking takes place outside the Gurudwara fearing disrespect to the AGGS. But Guru Amardas had a different point of view in Raag Asa, on this subject:[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਜਿਥੈ ਜਾਇ ਬਹੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਸੋ ਥਾਨੁ ਸੁਹਾਵਾ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][SIZE=3]Jithai Jaey Bahai Nayra Satguru So Thaan Sohava Raam Raajay.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Wherever my True Guru goes and sits, that place is beautiful, O, Akal Purkh The King.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] -----Guru Ramdas, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 450-17[/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]They also have made it difficult for the [/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]Sikhs[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] to buy a copy of AGGS for their homes. Under empty Fatwa’s called Hukamnamas, by making artificial rules that verge on idolatry, knowing fully well that is available at every place on each PC. This all is indicative of Spiritual Ignorance.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Spiritual Ignorance;[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [FONT=Raavi][I]ਗਿਆਨ ਹੀਣੰ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਪੂਜਾ[/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]॥[/I][/FONT][I][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/I][FONT=Raavi][I]ਔਧ ਵਰਤਾਵਾ ਭਾਉ ਦੂਜਾ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]॥[/I][/FONT][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/I] [I][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Giaan HeeNan Agiaan Poojaa, Andh Vartaavaa Bhaou Doojaa.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/I] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Without spiritual wisdom, people worship ignorance. They grope in the dark, in the love of duality. [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] -----Guru Nanak, Sloke Vaaran To Vadheek, AGGS, Page, 1412-4[COLOR=black][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]ਅਗਿਆਨੀ[/SIZE] [SIZE=3]ਮਾਨੁਖੁ ਭਇਆ ਜੋ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੋ ਲੋਰੈ [/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][SIZE=3]॥[/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Mangal] [/FONT][SIZE=3][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਰੈਣਿ ਅੰਧਾਰੀ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਕਾਰੀਆ ਕਵਨ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਜਿਤੁ ਭੋਰੈ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=3][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਹਾਰਿਆ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਿਧੀ ਕਰਿ ਟੋਰੈ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਭਈ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਨਿਧਿ ਮੋਰੈ [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Mangal] [/FONT][/SIZE][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][I][FONT=Arial][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/I] [I][FONT=Arial][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Agiani Manukh Bhaiaa Jo Nahin So Lorai, Rain AnDhaaree Kaaree-aa Kavan Jugat Jit Bhorai, Bharmato Bharmato Haari-aa Anik BiDhee Kar Torai, Kaho Nanak Kirpaa Bha-ee SaaDhsangat NiDh Morai.[/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/I][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][FONT=Arial]Humanity is in spiritual ignorance; people see things that do not exist. The night is dark and gloomy; how will the morning dawn? Wandering, wandering all around, I have grown weary; trying all sorts of things, I have been searching.[/FONT][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][FONT=Arial]Says Nanak, Akal Purkh has shown mercy to me; I have found the treasure of the Sadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy. -----Guru Arjan, AGGS, Page 212-11[/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][FONT=Arial][/FONT][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]The purpose of developing spirituality is to be free of spiritual ignorance, free of selfish or destructive behavioral patterns and free to return home to our eternal home in God. All the present problems are self-inflicted in ignorance and our performance of mostly empty, meaningless rituals. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Ignorance of reality is no excuse. The only cure is self-knowledge and becoming conscious of one’s own infinite worth so that he can grow spiritually towards God. Sikhism is a way of life, to be lived with internal piety. The prescription to clean the inside is to subjugate the 5 animal instincts of Lust, Anger, Greed, Attachment to Maya, and Ego. These need to be supplanted through the development of virtues. Guru Nanak explains in Japji, AGGS, Page, 4-11, 12, and 13 that every one knows how to clean the outer filth. But it is the Sabd, which cleans the inside through positive right action on the instructions in:[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]ਭਰੀਐ ਹਥੁ ਪੈਰੁ ਤਨੁ ਦੇਹ ॥ ਪਾਣੀ[FONT=Arial] [/FONT]ਧੋਤੈ ਉਤਰਸੁ ਖੇਹ[FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] ਮੂਤ ਪਲੀਤੀ ਕਪੜ ਹੋਇ[/FONT][FONT=Mangal] [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] ਦੇ ਸਾਬੂਣ ਲਈਐ ਓਹੁ ਧੋਇ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] ਭਰੀਐ ਮਤਿ ਪਾਪਾ ਕੈ ਸੰਗ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] ਓਹ ਧੋਪੈ ਨਾਵੈ ਕੈ ਰੰਗ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B] [/B][B] [/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][/B][SIZE=3][I]Bharia Hath Pair Tan Deh, PaaNee Dhotai Outras Kheh, Moot Pleeti Kaparh Hoey,Day SabooN La-ee-ai Oh Dhoey,Bharia Mat Papaa Kai Sung, Oh Dhopai Navai Kai Rung.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]When the hands and the feet and the body are dirty, water can wash away the dirt. When the clothes are soiled and stained by urine, soap can wash them clean. [COLOR=black]But to clean the inside one needs the help of Naam [/COLOR]to progress in spirituality [COLOR=black]obtained through Sabd Guru. [/COLOR]When the intellect is stained and polluted by sin, it can only be cleansed by the Love of the Name.[/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black]Guru’s help[/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black] is absolutly necessary for progress in spirituality.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਿਨੁ ਗੁਰ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਗਵਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਮਨਮੁਖ ਕਰਮ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਮਾਵਣੇ ਦਰਗਹ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਜਾਇ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Bin Gur Kinai Na Paa-eo Birtha Janam Gavaa-ey, [/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Manmukh Karam Kamaavnay Dargeh Milai Sajaa-ay[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black].[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Without the Guru, no one has obtained spirituality and they waste away their lives in vain.[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] The self-willed self-wiled create karma, and in the Court of the Akal Purkh, they receive their punishment.[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Ramdas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 33-15 & 16[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮਾਈ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਨ ਪਾਈਆ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਅਨਿਕ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਪ੍ਕਾਰ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਫਿਰਤ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਬਿਲਲਾਤੇ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮਿਲਤ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨਹੀ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਗੋਸਾਈਐ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Maa-ee Gur Bin Gian Na Paa-eeai, Anek Parkar Firat Billaatay Milat Nahee Gosaa-ee-aa.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]O mother, without the Guru, Divine knowledge is not obtained and one wanders crying and not finding God. They wander around, weeping and crying out in various ways, but the Creator of the World does not meet them. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Devgandhari, AGGS, Page, 532-11 & 12[COLOR=black][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨਾਨਕ ਮਨਮੁਖਿ ਔਧੁ ਪਿਆਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਬਾਝੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਗੁਰੂ ਡੁਬਾ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][B] [/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][/B][SIZE=3][I]Nanak Manmukh Undh Piaar, Baajh Guru Dubaa Sansaar.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]The self-willed loves the Spiritual darkness. Without the Guru, the world is drowning.[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Majh Ki Var, AGGS, Page, 138-1[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]It is the message in the Sabd Guru, which has to be respected with contemplation, deliberation and reflection in daily life as worship of the Truth. Guru Nanak stressed that it is the Truth which is God, which never gets old.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Truth;[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Sikhism is about Truth and Sikhism is Truth. That is how Guru Nanak defined God. It was Truth before time, it is true now and it will be true in the future. [/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][I]Truth[/I] is a comprehensive term that in all of its nuances implies accuracy and honesty. It is considered to be the supreme reality and to have the ultimate meaning and value of existence. The study of Truth is part of philosophy and epistemology. Falsehood is an offensive weapon, truth is defensive armor.[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Arial Unicode MS][/FONT][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਚੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਪੁਰਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਣਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੀਤਾ ਕਦੇ ਨ ਪਾਟੈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸਚੋ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਚਾ ਤਿਚਰੁ ਜਾਪੀ ਜਾਪੈ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Sach Purana Hovai Naahee Seeta Kaday Na Paatai, [/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Nanak Saahib Sacho Sachaa Tichar Jaapee Jaapai[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black].[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]The Truth never gets old; and when it stitches, it does not torn again.[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] O Nanak, the Akal Purkh and Master are the Truest of the True, manifests to mind, during contemplation.[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Sorath, AGGS, page 956-1 [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਤਜੁਗਿ ਸਤੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਸਰੀਰਾ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਵਰ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਤੈ ਗਹਿਰ ਗੰਭੀਰਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Satjug Sat Santokh Sareeraa,[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] Sat Sat Vartai Gehr Ganbheeraa.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]In the Golden Age of Truth, Truth and contentment filled the bodies.[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] Truth is pervasive, deep, profound and [B]unfathomable[/B]. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1023-13 & 14[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕੇਤੇ ਬੰਧਨ ਜੀਅ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕੇ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਚਹੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਓਰੈ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਉਪਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਆਚਾਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Kaytay BanDhan Jee-a Kay Gurmukh Mokh Du-aar,[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] Sachoh Oarai Sabh Ko Ouper Such Aachaar.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]There are so many entanglements for the soul. Only as Guru willed do we find the Gate of Liberation.[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] Truth[/COLOR] is higher than everything; but higher still is truthful living.[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 62[COLOR=black] -11 [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Spirituality is being of the spirit. It is a devotion to the metaphysical matters and activities, which renew uplift, comfort, heal, and inspire others with whom we interact. It is the development of the self to the point that one’s spirit reaches the Holy Spirit of God, the Divine Truth, the highest spiritual achievement possible. [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Spirituality is not the domain and inherited property of any religion, it can be obtained individually. Sikhism is a way of life lived according to the teachings incorporated in AGGS. But unfortunately idolatry with rituals is more in vogue in the Sikh ways of life and institutions at the present time. [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]The original intentions of all religions were to promote and teach true spirituality among all. Over time they have become organized and institutionalized. They have started to control people. Development of true spirituality is independent of any church/temple/mosque or religion. God is the Holy Spirit and has no religion. There is only one religion of Righteousness, which[/COLOR][COLOR=black] represents the individual's internal "law," to which obedience must be given. This means living in accordance with the Divine Will, Divine Creative Principle. [/COLOR][COLOR=black]Dharma essentially means living as per a universal value system.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Dharma;[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Dharma (Righteousness) is one of the Sikh virtues, which requires an individual’s active participation to obey the universal eternal laws of Mother Nature. It is the essential character or nature of all that is, of the universe and of each of us. It is the natural and rightful order and foundation of everyone and everything. It is both why things are as they are and the path to awakening. As such, dharma is the underlying Truth of all spiritual traditions. [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman]ਏਕੋ ਧਰਮੁ ਦਿ੍ੜੈ ਸਚੁ ਕੋਈ [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਪੂਰ ਜੁਗਿ ਜੁਗਿ ਸੋਈ [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Mangal] [/FONT][B] [/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][/B][SIZE=3][I]Ayko Dharam Dirrhai Sach Ko-ee, Gurmit Poora Joug Joug So-ee.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]There is only one religion of [/COLOR]Righteousness[COLOR=black]; let everyone grasp this truth. One can become perfect in all ages by following the teachings incorporated in SGGS. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Basant, AGGS, 1188-15[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਰਬ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਧਰਮ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮਹਿ ਸ੍ਰੇਸਟ ਧਰਮੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮ ਜਪਿ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਕਰਮ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Sarb Dharam Meh SraysaT Dharam, Har Ko Naam Jap Nirmal Karam.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Of all religions, the best religion is to deliberate, contemplate and reflect on the Name of the Akal Purkh and maintain pure conduct. [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]-----Gur Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, 266-13[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][B]ਮੰਨੈ ਮਗੁ ਨ ਚਲੈ[/B][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][B]ਪੰਥੁ [/B][/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black]ਮੰਨੈ[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black]ਧਰਮ[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black]ਸੇਤੀ ਸਨਬੰਧੁ [/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Mannai Mag Na Chalai Panth, [/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black]Mannai Dharam Saytee Sanbandh.[/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]By acting on Akal Purkh’s Will, one follows the path of righteousness and is not led astray by rituals. [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black]The faithful are firmly bound to the righteousness. -----Guru Nanak, Japji, AGGS, Page, 3-9 [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/B] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਨਾ ਜਾਣਾ ਕਰਮ ਕੇਵਡ ਤੇਰੀ ਦਾਤਿ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਰਮੁ ਧਰਮੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਤੇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਰੇ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਜਾਤਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman]Nā jā[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]ā karam kevad [/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]erī [/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ḏ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]ā[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]. Karm Dharam Tayray Naam Ki Jaat.[/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]I do not know about karma, or how great Your gifts are? Actions, righteousness, social class and status, are all contained within Your Name. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page 154-2 [/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਬੀਰਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜਹਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਗਿਆਨੁ ਤਹ ਧਰਮੁ ਹੈ ਜਹਾ ਝੂਠੁ ਤਹ ਪਾਪੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਜਹਾ ਲੋਭੁ ਤਹ ਕਾਲੁ ਹੈ ਜਹਾ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਖਿਮਾ ਤਹ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਆਪਿ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR] [I][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Kabir Jhaa Giaan Teh Dharam Hai Jhaa Jhooth Teh Paap, Jhaa Loabh Teh Kaal Hai Jhaa Khima Teh Aap.[/FONT][/SIZE][/I] [I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Kabir, where there is spiritual wisdom, there is righteousness. Where there is falsehood, there is sin. Where there is greed, there is death. Where there is forgiveness, there is God It self.[/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Kabir Sloke 155, AGGS, Page 1372[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Discipline;[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]A spiritual [B]discipline[/B] is necessary for spiritual growth and character. Character implies a broad understanding of life choices that a person makes for the purpose of entering in to deeper awareness and relationship with God. It emerges from a cleaning of the inner self. Sikhism is all about internal piety and absolute truthful conduct. “We humans are undisciplined people. So we let God discipline us with action and more action”. For spiritual growth one has to follow the prescribed discipline of his faith in his way of living. Guru Nanak describes the true way of life in Raag Bilawal;[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਸਾਚੀ ਰਹਤ ਸਾਚਾ ਮਨਿ ਸੋਈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਮਨਮੁਖ ਕਥਨੀ ਹੈ ਪਰੁ ਰਹਤ ਨ ਹੋਈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਨਾਵਹੁ ਭੂਲੇ ਥਾਉ ਨ ਕੋਈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Saachee Rahat Saacha Man So-ee, Manmukh Kathnee Hai Par Rahat Na Ho-ee, Navoh Bhoolay Thaou Ko-ee.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Through the lifestyle of Truth, the True Akal Purkh comes to dwell in the mind. The self-willed talks about it, but does not practice it.[/COLOR] Forgetting the Name, he finds no place of rest[FONT=Raavi]. [/FONT][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Raavi][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Bilawal, AGGS, Page, 831-12 & 13 [/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Guru Arjan ponders in Raag Devgandhari;[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਰਤ ਫਿਰੇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਨ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਭੇਖ ਮੋਹਨ ਰਹਤ ਨਿਰਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕਥਨ ਸੁਨਾਵਨ ਗੀਤ ਨੀਕੇ ਗਾਵਨ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਧਰਤੇ ਗਾਰ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਅਤਿ ਸੁੰਦਰ ਬਹੁ ਚਤੁਰ ਸਿਆਨੇ ਬਿਦਿਆ ਰਸਨਾ ਚਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਮਾਨ ਮੋਹ ਮੇਰ ਤੇਰ ਬਿਬਰਜਿਤ ਏਹ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਖੰਡੇ ਧਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨਿ ਭਵਜਲੁ ਤਰੀਅਲੇ ਪ੍ਭ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਸੰਤ ਸੰਗਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Karat Firay Ban Bhaykh Mohan Rahat Niraar, Kathan Sunaavan Neekay Gaavan Man Meh Dhartay Gaar. Ut Sundar Boh Chatur Siaanay Bidiaa Rasnaa Chaar, Maan Moh Mayr Tayr Bibarjat Ayh Maarg Khanday Dhaar, Koh Nanak Tin Bhavjal Tari-alay Prabh Kirpa Sant Sangaar.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Some wander around in the forests, wearing religious robes. But the Fascinating Akal Purkh remains distant from them. They talk, preach, and sing their lovely songs, but within their minds, the filth of their sins remains. They may be very beautiful, extremely clever, wise and educated, and they may speak very sweetly. But to forsake pride, emotional attachment, and the sense of 'mine and yours', is the path of the double-edged sword. They alone will swim across the terrifying world-ocean, who, by God's Grace, joins the Society of the Saints, says Nanak. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Devgandhari, AGGS, Page, 534-12[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Spirituality is preparing, body and mind, to receive God's inspiration and translating it in thinking, speech, and actions that lead to the formation of virtuous habits, the foundation of character. Developing Humility, Love, Contentment, Truth and Compassion is the Goal of Life. They lead to Spiritual Enlightenment, which unites the Conscious Mind with the Universal Consciousness. The Divine love & fear of the Creator removes the Ego, the goal of true spirituality. [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Kabir says in Raag Kidara, on Fear & Love of God:[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਭੈ ਬਿਚਿ ਭਾਉ ਭਾਇ ਕੋਊ ਬੂਝਹਿ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਭਾਈ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜੇਤੇ ਘਟ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਮਹਿ ਭਾਵੈ ਤਿਸਹਿ ਪੀਆਈ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/B][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Bhai Bich Bhaaou Ko-ou Boojheh Har Ras Paavai Bhaa-ee.[/FONT][/COLOR][/I] [I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Je[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]e g[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]at amri[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] sab[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] hī mėh b[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]āvai [/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]isėh pī▫ā▫ī[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial].[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]In the Fear of God, is the Love of God? Only those few who understand Its Love obtain the sublime essence of the It, O Siblings of Destiny.[/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]As many hearts as there are - in all of them, is Its Ambrosial Nectar; as It pleases, It causes them to drink it. -----Kabir, Raag Kidara, AGGS, Page, 1123-15[/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can Spirituality be obtained by mere verbal talk?[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][SIZE=3]Sikhs are not obeying the teachings to modify their way of life and are in total spiritual ignorance. But spirituality cannot be obtained by mere talk or following hollow rituals. It depends on the favor of God’s Grace. [/SIZE][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Guru Nanak, explains this in Raag Asa:[/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਗਿਆਨੁ ਨ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਗਲੀ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਈ ਢੂਢੀਐ ਕਥਨਾ ਕਰੜਾ ਸਾਰੁ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕਰਮਿ ਮਿਲੈ ਤਾ ਪਾਈਐ ਹੋਰ ਹਿਕਮਤਿ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਖੁਆਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Giaan Na Galee-ee Dhudhee-ai Kathna Karrhaa Saar, Karam Milai Ta Paa-eeai Hoar Hikmat Hukam Khuaar.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Wisdom cannot be found through mere words. To explain it is as hard as iron. When the Lord bestows Its Grace, then alone it is received; other tricks and orders are useless. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 465-1 & 2[/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality or love of God be bought?[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Guru Arjan in Chaubolay Sloke and advises a dedicated Sikh “Samman” that Spiritual Wisdom or the love of God cannot be bought. God cannot be bribed. Unfortunately bribing God is very prevalent now days as a way of liberation in different ritual forms;[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੰਮਨ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜਉ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਇਸ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕੀ ਦਮ ਕ੍ਯ੍ਯਿਹੁ ਹੋਤੀ ਸਾਟ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਰਾਵਨ ਹੁਤੇ ਸੁ ਰੰਕ ਨਹਿ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਿਰ ਦੀਨੇ ਕਾਟਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Samman Jaou Iss Praym Kee Dam Kehoh Hoatee Saat, Raavan Hutay So Runk Neh Jin Sir Deenay Kaat.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]O Samman, if one could buy the love of God with money, then consider the king Rawan, who was not poor, but he could not buy it, even though he offered one of his heads to Shiva. [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Arjan, Chaubolay Slokes, AGGS, Page, 1368-18 [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Kabir refers to the way bribing God in Raag Gauri: [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਕੰਚਨ ਸਿਉ ਪਾਈਐ[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਨਹੀ ਤੋਲਿ [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I] ਮਨੁ ਦੇ ਰਾਮੁ ਲੀਆ ਹੈ[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਮੋਲਿ[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/I][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial]Kanchan Si-o Paa-ee-ai Nahee Tol, Man Day Raam Lee-aa Hai Mol.[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]God cannot be obtained by offering your weight in gold. But I have bought God by giving my mind. [/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] -----Kabir, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 327-10[/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality be obtained by visiting religious places?[/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Spirituality cannot be obtained by mere visiting religious places as explained by [/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Guru Amardas, Raag Dhanasari:[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਸੇਵਕ ਸਿਖ ਪੂਜਣ ਸਭਿ ਆਵਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਗਾਵਹਿ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਊਤਮ ਬਾਨੀ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਗਾਵਿਆ ਸੁਣਿਆ ਤਿਨ ਕਾ ਹਰਿ ਥਾਇ ਪਾਵੈ ਜਿਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਆਗਿਆ ਸਤਿ ਸਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਮਾਨੀ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black]Sayvak Sikh PoojaN Sabh Aaveh Sabh Gaaveh Har Har Ootam Baani, Gaaviaa SuNiaa Tin Ka Har Thaey Paavai Jin Satgur Ki Aagia Sat Sat Kar Maanee.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]All the Sikhs come to worship and adore God; they sing the sublime Bani of the Eternal Akal Purkh. Their singing and listening is approved by God; they accept the Order of the True Guru as totally True.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] -----Guru Amardas, Raag Dhanasari, AGGS, Page, 669-14 & 15 [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Guru Amardas further clarifies this in Raag Vadhans: [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Raavi]ਸਤਿਗੁਰ[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Raavi]ਨੋ[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Raavi]ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਵੇਖਦਾ ਜੇਤਾ ਜਗਤੁ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi] ਡਿਠੈ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਜਿਚਰ ਸਬਦਿ ਨ ਕਰੇ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ [/FONT][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Tahoma][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][B][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/B][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman]Satgur No Sabh Ko Vaykhda Jayta Jagat Sansaar, Dhithai Mukat Na Hova-ee Jichar Sabd Na Karay Veechaar.[/FONT][/I][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]All the living beings of the world behold the True Guru but one is not liberated by merely seeing, unless one contemplates and deliberates on the message of the Sabd with reflection in daily life. [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] ------Guru Amardas, Raag Vadhans, AGGS, Page, 594-11[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]The word Vichar is repeated at least 378 times in AGGS but how many actually do it.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Are the Sikhs carrying the message home to change their life style? An individual has to change himself by reflecting on the message; otherwise Bani itself is not a magic potion. It needs individual’s action. Those who behold the Akal Purkh do not fathom It. Those who fathom the Akal Purkh cannot behold It. One cannot fathom the unfathomable. [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Raavi]ਹਰਿ ਅਗਮ ਅਗਾਹੁ ਅਗਾਧਿ ਨਿਰਾਲਾ [/FONT][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Raavi]ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਗੁਰ ਗੋਪਾਲਾ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥ [/FONT][FONT=Raavi]ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਮਤਿ ਤਾਰੇ ਤਾਰਣਹਾਰਾ ਮੇਲਿ ਲਏ ਰੰਗਿ ਲੀਨਾ ਹੇ [/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B] [/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][/B][I][SIZE=3]Har Agam Agaah Agaadhi Niralaa. Har an[/SIZE][/I][/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] na pā▫ī▫ai gur gopālā. Sa[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]gur ma[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]āre [/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]āra[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]hārā mel la▫e rang līnā he.[/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/I][B][/B][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]The Akal Purkh is inaccessible, inscrutable, unfathomable and unattached. Its limits cannot be found; the Guru is the God of the World. Through the Teachings of the True Guru, It carries us across to the other side uniting with It those who are colored by Its Love. [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1027-17[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality be obtained with filth in side?[/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Kabir clarifies in Raag Asa about inside filth-484-14 &15: [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਔਤਰ ਮੈਲੁ ਜੇ ਤੀਰਥ ਨਾਵੈ ਤਿਸ ਬੈਕੁੰਠ ਨ ਜਾਨਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਲੋਕ ਪਤੀਣੇ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਹੋਵੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਰਾਮੁ ਅਯਾਨਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Untar Mail Jay Tirath Naavai Tis Baikunth Na Janan, Loak PateeNay Kachoo Na Hovai Naahee Raam Iaanaa.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]With filth within the heart, even if one bathes at sacred places of pilgrimage, shall not go to heaven. Nothing is gained by trying to please other people as the God cannot be fooled.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [FONT=Raavi]ਪੂਜਹੁ ਰਾਮੁ ਏਕੁ ਹੀ ਦੇਵਾ [/FONT][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][FONT=Raavi] ਸਾਚਾ ਨਾਵਣੁ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸੇਵਾ [/FONT][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][SIZE=3][I]Poojoh Raam Ayk Hee Dayva, Saachaa NaavaN Hur Ki Sayva.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Worship the One Divine God. The true cleansing bath is service to the Guru. [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Similarly Guru Nanak declares in Raag Parbhati, that worship is useless with filth inside.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਕੋ੍ਧ ਮਹਾ ਅਹੰਕਾਰਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਪੂਜਾ ਕਰਹਿ ਬਹੁਤੁ ਬਿਸਥਾਰਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਕਰਿ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਤਨਿ ਚਕ੍ ਬਣਾਏ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਔਤਰ ਕੀ ਮਲੁ ਕਬ ਹੀ ਨ ਜਾਏ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਇਤੁ ਸੰਜਮਿ ਪ੍ਭੁ ਕਿਨ ਹੀ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਭਗਉਤੀ ਮੁਦਾ੍ ਮਨੁ ਮੋਹਿਆ ਮਾਇਆ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black]Man Meh Krodh Mhaa Ahankaraa, Pooja Kareh Bahut Bisthara, Kar Isnaan Tan Chakar BaNaey, Untar Ki Mal Kab Hee Na Jaaey, It Sanjam Prabh Kin Hee Na Paaeaa[/COLOR][/I][I][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/I][/FONT][/SIZE][FONT=Raavi][I],[/I][/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial][FONT=Times New Roman]Bhag-utee Mudraa Man Mohi-aa Maa-i-aa[/FONT][/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Arial].[/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Within the mind dwell anger and massive ego. Worship services are performed with great pomp and ceremony. Ritual cleansing baths are taken, and sacred marks are applied to the body. But still, the filth and pollution within never depart. No one has ever found God in this way.[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] The sacred mudras - ritualistic hand gestures -- are made, but the mind remains enticed by Maya. [/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Parbhati, AGGS, Page, 1348-1[/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality be obtained by outward show of piety e.g. bowing etc?[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Spirituality cannot be achieved by the various postures of the body like bowing and going down on knees etc; Guru Nanak mulls this in Asa Di Var, 470-15:[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੀਸਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਨਿਵਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਇਐ ਕਿਆ ਥੀਐ ਜਾ ਰਿਦੈ ਕੁਸੁਧੇ ਜਾਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Sees Nivaae-ai Kia Theeai Ja Ridhai Kasudhay Jaaeh.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]What can be achieved by bowing the head, when the heart is impure?[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Bhai Gurdas ponders on the same issue: [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਸਿਰ ਤਲਵਾਏ ਪਾਈਐ ਚਮਗਿਦੜ ਜੂਹੈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮੜੀ ਮਸਾਣੀ ਜੇ ਮਿਲੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਖੁਡਾਂ ਚੂਹੈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Sir Talvaa-ay Paa-eeai Chamgidharh Joohai, Marhee MasaaNee Jay Milai Vich Khudan Choohay.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]If bowing could grant liberation than bats hanging upside down in the forest or the rats living in crematories in seclusion should get liberation in their holes. -----Bhai Gurdas, Var 36-Pauri, 13[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality be obtained by verbal recitation of the Path with out relishing it? [/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Answer is big NO. I have been reciting Path daily since the age of 12 for 63 years, which was just mechanical recitation with out understanding. I have read SGGS, over 63 times from A-Z in my life but it was mechanical reading with out understanding and reflection. But the last 5 readings of SGGS read very slowly were more enjoyable. When I started understanding its meaning with the help of dictionaries, translations and further reflections on the message in my daily life, I became more satisfied. I relish the “Sabd”, and occasionally become overwhelmed and get lost in it.[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]Guru Amardas replies my question;[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਪੰਡਿਤ ਪੜਹਿ ਸਾਦੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਮਾਇਆ ਮਨੁ ਭਰਮਾਵਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Pundit Parheh Saad Na Paaveh, Doojai Bhaey Maya Man Bharmaaveh.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]The religious scholars read, but they do not taste the essence due to unfocussed mind in the love of duality and Maya. -----Guru Amardas, Raag Majh, AGGS, Page, 116-18 [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]He further stresses;[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਪਾਠੁ ਪੜੈ ਨਾ ਬੂਝਈ ਭੇਖੀ ਭਰਮਿ ਭੁਲਾਇ [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I] ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਹਰਿ ਸਦਾ ਪਾਇਆ ਰਸਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਸਮਾਇ [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Path Parhai Na Boojha-ee Bharam Bhulaey, Gurmatee Har Sada Paaeaa Rasna Har Ras Smaaey.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Akal Purkh cannot be understood by reading scriptures; the deceitful pretenders are deluded by doubt. It is always found through the Guru’s teachings, and the tongue is permeated with the Sublime Essence It. [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 66-18 & 19[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਥਨੀ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਦਨੀ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਹਉਮੈ ਵਿਚਹੁ ਜਾਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Kathnee Badnee Na Paaeeai Haoumai Vichoh Jaaey.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Akal Purkh is not obtained by mouthing mere words, but by rooting out ego from within.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Amardas, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 32-19[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਙੰਙਾ ਙਿਆਨੁ ਨਹੀ ਮੁਖ ਬਾਤਉ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਅਨਿਕ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਸਾਸਤ੍ ਕਰਿ ਭਾਤਉ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਙਿਆਨੀ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਦਿ੍ੜ ਸੋਉ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਕਹਤ ਸੁਨਤ ਕਛੁ ਜੋਗੁ ਨ ਹੋਊ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR] [I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Nganga Ngiaan Mukh Batou, Anek Jugat Saaster Kar Bhatou, Ngianee Soey Ja Kai Dirrh Souoo, Kehat Sunat Kuch Joag Na Houoo.[/SIZE][/FONT][/I] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]NGANGA: Spiritual wisdom is not obtained by mere words of mouth. It is not obtained through the various debates of the Shaastras and scriptures. They alone are spiritually wise, whose minds are firmly fixed on the Akal Purkh.[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma] [/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]Hearing and telling stories, no one attains Yoga. [/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 251[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Raavi][I]ਵੇਦ ਕਹਹਿ ਵਖਿਆਣ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਣਾ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਪੜਿਐ[/I][/FONT][FONT=Arial][I][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਨਾਹੀ ਭੇਦੁ ਬੁਝਿਐ ਪਾਵਣਾ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I] ਖਟੁ ਦਰਸਨ ਕੈ ਭੇਖਿ ਕਿਸੈ ਸਚਿ ਸਮਾਵਣਾ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][FONT=Raavi][I]ਸਚਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਅਲਖੁ ਸਬਦਿ ਸੁਹਾਵਣਾ [/I][/FONT][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT] [FONT=Mangal][I] [/I][/FONT][FONT=GurbaniLipiLight][I][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/I][/FONT] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman]ve[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ḏ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] kahėh vak[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman]i▫ā[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] an[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ṯ[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] na pāv[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT]ā. Parhia Naahee Bhayd Bujhia PaavNaa.[/I][FONT=Tahoma] [/FONT][I][FONT=Times New Roman]K[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]at [/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ḏ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]arsan kai b[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]ek[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman] kisai sac[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman] samāv[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]ā[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]. Sac[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]ā purak[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman] alak[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ẖ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman] saba[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ḏ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman] suhāva[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma]ṇ[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman]ā[/FONT][/I][I][FONT=Times New Roman].[/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]The Vedas speak and expound on the God, but they do not know Its limits. Akal Purkh’s mystery is revealed only by understanding and not by studying the scriptures. There are six pathways in the Shaastras, but how rare are those who merge in the True God through them. The True Akal Purkh is Unknowable; through the Word of Its Sabd, we are embellished. [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Majh, AGGS, Page, 148-3[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black]Sabd can only be relished with spiritual growth as explained by the following hymns;[/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਥਾਲੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਤੈ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਹਰਿ ਭੋਜਨੁ ਔਮਿ੍ਤ ਸਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਜਿਤੁ ਖਾਧੈ ਮਨੁ ਤਿ੍ਪਤੀਐ ਪਾਈਆ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][I]Thaalai Vich Tai Vastoo Pa-eeou Har Bhojan Anmrit Saar, Jit Khaadhai Man Tirpateeai Paa-eeai Mokh Duaar.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Three things (Truth, Contentment, and Contemplation) have been placed on the plate, which is the sublime, ambrosial food of the Akal Purkh. Eating this, the mind is satisfied, and the Door of Salvation is found. -----Guru Amardas, Raag Sorath, AGGS, Page, 645-12[/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Guru Arjan confirms the same in Mundavani-1429-12 & 13[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][SIZE=3]ਥਾਲ [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਵਿਚਿ ਤਿੰਨਿ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਸਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖ ਵੀਚਾਰੋ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਔਮਿ੍ਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਕਾ ਪਇਓ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਸਭਸੁ ਅਧਾਰੋ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜੇ ਕੋ ਖਾਵੈ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਭੁੰਚੈ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਹੋਇ ਉਧਾਰੋ [/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]॥[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman]Thaal Vich Tinn Vastoo Paeeou Sat Santokh Veecharo, Anmrit Naam Thakur Ka Paeou Jis Ka Sabhs Adhaaro, Jay Ko Khavai Jay Ko Bhunchai Tis Ka Hoey Oudharo.[/FONT][/I][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Three things Truth, Contentment and Contemplation have been placed on the plate. The Ambrosial Nectar of the God’s Naam has also been placed upon it; it is the Support of all. One who eats and relishes it shall be saved.[/FONT][/SIZE] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can spirituality be obtained by rituals? [/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Kabir in Raag Maru 1103-7 points out;[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜਟਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਭਸਮ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਲੇਪਨ ਕੀਆ ਕਹਾ ਗੁਫਾ ਮਹਿ ਬਾਸੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਮਨੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜੀਤੇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤਿਆ ਜਾਂ ਤੇ ਬਿਖਿਆ ਤੇ ਹੋਇ ਉਦਾਸੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Jataa Bhasam Laypan Kee-aa Kaha Gufaa Meh Baas, Man Jeetay Jug Jeetiaa Jaan Tay Bikhia Tay Hoey Oudaas.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]What is the use of wearing matted hair, smearing the body with ashes, and living in a cave? Conquering the mind, one conquers the world, and then remains detached from corruption.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Guru Nanak confirms the above in Raag Ramkali, 903-3 that to get on the spiritual path, one has to get the inside clean; [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਨਾਵਹੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਧੋਵਹੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਤਿਲਕੁ ਚੜਾਵਹੁ ਸੁਚ ਵਿਣੁ ਸੋਚ ਨ ਹੋਈ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black]Navoh Dhovoh Tilak Charhavoh Souch ViN Soach Na Ho-ee.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]You may bathe and wash, and apply a ritualistic tilak mark to your forehead, but without inner purity, there is no understanding. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]He further clarifies in Asa Di Var-472-4[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਸੁਚ ਹੋਵੈ ਤਾ ਸਚੁ ਪਾਈਐ [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][I][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][FONT=Raavi][/FONT]Souch Hovai Ta Such Paaeeai.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Raavi][I][/I][/FONT][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]If you are clean in side, you will obtain the True Lord.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]It is the understanding, contemplation with deliberation and controlling the mind with reflection of the message in daily life which helps in the spiritual growth. [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਮਨਿ ਜੀਤੈ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਜਗੁ ਜੀਤੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][I]Man Jeetai Jug Jeet.[/I][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Conquer your own mind, and conquer the world. [/COLOR][COLOR=black]-----Guru Nanak, Japji, AGGS, Page, 6-17 [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਮਨੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਬਸਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਆਵੈ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਜੇ ਪੂਰਨ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਹੋਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Man Bas Aavai Nanaka Jay Pooran Kirpa Hoey.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Akal Purkh’s Grace only can control mind. It can only be obtained by Its service by becoming a better human ([/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]). -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 298-17 [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Kabir ponders on Spirituality & Liberation in Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 324:[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]If Yoga could be obtained by wandering around naked, then all the deer of the forest would be liberated. If the spiritual perfection could be obtained by shaving the head, then why haven't sheep found liberation? If someone could save himself by celibacy, why then haven't eunuchs obtained the state of supreme dignity? Kabir says that without the God's Name, none has found spirituality & salvation?[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Guru Arjan Ponders in Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1003- [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Someone may practice intensive meditation, and discipline of his body, but his mind still runs around in ten directions. The celibate practices celibacy, but his heart is filled with pride. The Sannyaasi wanders around at sacred shrines of pilgrimage, but he is mindless. The temple dancers tie bells around their ankles to earn their living. Others go on fasts, take vows, perform the six rituals and wear religious robes for show. Some sing songs and melodies and hymns, but their minds do not sing of the God. Says Nanak, I met the Perfect Guru, and then the anxiety of my mind was removed.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman]Can Spiritual wisdom be obtained by saying Ram Ram etc? [/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Guru Amardas replies in Raag Gujri, AGGS, Page, 491-1 & 2 [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਰਾਮ ਰਾਮ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਭੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕੋ ਕਹੈ ਕਹਿਐ ਰਾਮੁ ਨ ਹੋਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਰਾਮੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ਤਾ ਫਲੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਕੋਇ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]Raam Raam Sabh Ko Kahai Kahai-aa Raam Na Ho-ee, Gurparsadee Raam Man Basai Ta Fal Paavai Koey.[/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Everyone chants the God's Name, Ram, Ram, but by such chanting, It is not obtained. By Guru's Grace, It comes to dwell in the mind, and then, the fruits are obtained. [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]The spirit, mind and sensuality form a triad of reality. To achieve harmony a delicate balance must be maintained with contentment in the unity with the universe. Spirit is the non-physical aspect of existence. Mind is a bridge between spirit and body. It is by rooting out self deceit by the selfless service that one prepares himself for the possible blessing of God’s Grace as elucidated by Guru Angad in Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 470-10:[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਆਪੁ ਗਵਾਇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੇਵਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕਰੇ ਤਾ ਕਿਛੁ ਪਾਏ ਮਾਨੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨਾਨਕ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਲਗਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਲਗਾ ਸੋ ਪਰਵਾਨੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Aap Gavaaey Sayva Karay Ta Kich Paaey Maan, Nanak Jis No Lagaa Tis Milai Lagaa So Parvaan.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]But if he eliminates his self-conceit and then performs service, he shall be honored. O Nanak, if he merges with the one with whom he is attached, his attachment becomes acceptable. Selfless service of the humanity is only useful if done without expecting anything in return as explained by Guru Angad, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 469-3:[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਧਰਮੀ[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਧਰਮੁ[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][I][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I]ਕਰਹਿ ਗਾਵਾਵਹਿ ਮੰਗਹਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal][I]॥[/I][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I] [/I][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][I] [/I][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Dharmee Dharam Kareh Gavaaveh Mangeh Mokh Duaar.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][I][COLOR=black][FONT=GurbaniAkharHeavy][/FONT][/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]The righteous waste their righteousness, by asking for the door of salvation.[/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Selfless service leads to spiritual growth and ultimately, we come to understand that serving humanity and serving God are one and the same. In other words selfless service is meditation in action.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Spirituality is a two-stroke process. The upward stroke relates to inner growth through reflection on the teachings of the Sikh Gurus and the downward stroke manifests improvements in the reality around us as a result of the inward change as we root out the ego with Its Grace.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਹਉਮੈ ਏਹੋ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਹੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਕਮੁ ਹੈ ਪਇਐ ਕਿਰਤਿ ਫਿਰਾਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਹਉਮੈ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਦੀਰਘ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਰੋਗੁ ਹੈ ਦਾਰੂ ਭੀ ਇਸੁ ਮਾਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜੇ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਆਪਣੀ ਤਾ ਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਸਬਦੁ ਕਮਾਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B] ਨਾਨਕੁ ਕਹੈ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਣਹੁ ਜਨਹੁ ਇਤੁ ਸੰਜਮਿ ਦੁਖ ਜਾਹਿ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black]Houmai Ayho Hukam Hai Paeaa Kirat Firaaeh, Houmai Deeragh Roag Hai Daroo Bhee Iss Maaeh, Kirpa Karay Jay aapnee Ta Gur Ka Sabd Kamaeh, Nanak Kahai SuNoh Janoh It Sanjam Dukh Jaaeh.[/COLOR][/I][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]This ego exists by the Akal Purkh's Order; people wander according to their past actions. Ego is a chronic disease, but it contains its own cure as well.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]If It grants Its Grace, one acts according to the Teachings of the Guru's Sabd. Nanak says, listen people: in this way, troubles depart:[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] -----Guru Angad, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 466[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black]Spiritual practices[/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black] can be sound and helpful, but they can become the home of superstition and magic, too.[B] NO[/B] external piety or body position or sequence of words or numbers, has [I]ever[/I] made God respond any better to any prayer, nor made heaven or earth or hell or anything else supernaturally bend to anyone's bidding. Devotional aids are there to help [I]you[/I] direct [I]yourself[/I] toward God. The moment you believe they have any powers or merit of their own, you believe in magic, idolatry, and you are in breach of the teachings of AGGS as explained by Guru Arjan In his Sahskirti Sloke 60-1359: [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Tahoma][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਸਿਆਮਲੰ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਮਧੁਰ ਮਾਨੁਖ੍ਯ੍ਯੰ ਰਿਦਯੰ ਭੂਮਿ ਵੈਰਣਹ [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਨਿਵੰਤਿ[/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr] [/FONT][FONT=AnmolUniPr]ਹੋਵੰਤਿ ਮਿਥਿਆ ਚੇਤਨੰ ਸੰਤ ਸ੍ਵਜਨਹ [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][SIZE=3][I][FONT=Times New Roman]Siaamlan Madhur Manukhn Ridhian Bhoom VairNeh, Nivanti Hovanti Mithia Chaytanan Sant Savajneh.[/FONT][/I][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]The mortal is beautiful and speaks sweet words, but in the farm of his heart, he harbors cruel vengeance. He pretends to bow in worship, but he is false. Beware of him, O friendly Saints. [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]By altering the patterned performance of the conscious mind, the ego gradually diminishes and the stance of the individual shifts in its relationship to space and time. Perceptions heighten, alternate flows of powerful and pertinent knowledge and creativity results, and the mind is elevated to a new level of intellectual and intuitive functioning. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black]The Guru, faith, Truth, and the capital of God’s name are necessary for spiritual growth. Without Guru there is no spiritual, Divine knowledge. Without faith there is no meditation. Without Truth there is no credit and without capital there is no balance. The best act is the desire to help mankind, without which human birth is accursed. Alms, gifts, penance and sacrifices are not equal to Philanthropy. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]Conclusion:[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [B][COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/B] [SIZE=3][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਇਸੁ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਕਰਣੀ ਹੈ ਸਾਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਬਿਨੁ ਸਬਦੈ ਹੋਰ ਮੋਹੁ ਗੁਬਾਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਸਬਦੇ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਖੈ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] ਸਬਦੇ ਗਤਿ ਮਤਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰੁ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][FONT=Times New Roman][B] [/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B] [/B][SIZE=3][I]Iss Jag Meh Sabd KarNee Hai Saar, Bin Sabdai Hoar Moh Gubaar, Sabday Naam Rakhai Uri Dhaar, Sabday Gat Mit Mokh Duaar.[/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]In this world, the practice of the Sabd is the most excellent occupation. Without the Sabd, everything else is the darkness of emotional attachment. Through the Sabd, the Naam is enshrined within the heart. Through the Sabd, one obtains clear understanding and the door of salvation.[/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman] -----Guru Nanak, Raag Parbhatee Bibhas, AGGS, Page, 1342[/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Prayer, Meditation, Remembrance of the Word of God, Contentment, acceptance of the Will of God, Morality, Selflessness, Integrity, Honor, Dignity, Trustworthiness, Restraint, and Deferred gratification of desires lead to spiritual progress As spiritual awakening begins, motivations inevitably shift from the egocentric toward the desire to serve the others. This kind of service is seen as being absolutely necessary if the awakening and development are to continue. Spiritual growth requires a life of service. A person is not a conqueror in the spiritual sense unless he is willing to give his inner life in exchange for any significant advantage. Each of us must bring out what is best in him. When our lower nature no longer exerts itself in us, whatever may be the provocation, then self-conquest is complete. One should be concerned about internal cleanliness and discipline rather external cleanliness. The discipline of life is very wonderful for mind and body. Spiritual disciplines help to keep our relationship with God in good working order, and even help develop intimacy. Disciplines and practices are tools that are a part of cooperating with the Spirit on the task of remaking us into what God wants us to be, as explained by Guru Arjan in Raag Asa 12-8 & 9:[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਜਪੁ ਤਪੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ੰਜਮੁ ਧਰਮੁ ਨ ਕਮਾਇਆ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸੇਵਾ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਾਧ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਨ ਜਾਨਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਇਆ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਕਹੁ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਨਾਨਕ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਹਮ ਨੀਚ ਕਰੰਮਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਸਰਣਿ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][B][COLOR=black][FONT=AnmolUniPr][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR][/B][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][B]ਪ[/B][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi]ਰੇ ਕੀ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਸਰਮਾ [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Mangal]॥[/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi] [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][/B][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][B][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/B][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black]Jap Tap Sanjam Dharam Na Kamaaeaa, Sayva Sadh Na Jaaneaa Har Raaeaa, Koh Nanak Ham Neech Karma, SaraN Paray Kee Raakhoh Sarma.[/COLOR][/I][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3][I][COLOR=black][/COLOR][/I][COLOR=black][FONT=Raavi][/FONT][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]I have not practiced meditation, self-discipline, self-restraint or righteous living. I have not served the Holy; I have not acknowledged the God. My actions are contemptible, O, Akal Purkh I seek Your Sanctuary; please, preserve my honor, says Nanak! [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black] [/COLOR][COLOR=black][FONT=Arial][/FONT][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]The danger to the Sikh philosophy comes from degeneration of morals, beclouded mental horizons and atrophy of the human spiritual nature. Individuals put their vested interest first, and truths and ideals go begging. Moral life cannot be lived in aloofness. Morality is the nurse of spirituality. For the truly faithful, no miracle is necessary, but for those who doubt, no miracle is sufficient.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Cordially,[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Virinder S. Grewal[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [/QUOTE]
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