sher_panjabi

Vaheguru Jee Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Jee Kee Fateh.

I didn't know what else to do, so I have decided to post here and hope that someone can help.

I ordered 2 Sarbloh mugs from www.SikhiShop.com on 1st August 2013. I paid the money for them. There was nothing to state that the items were out of stock. It said that it would take 5 or so days for the items to arrive.

It is now 19th September. That's a total of 7 weeks - I have neither heard from SikhiShop website and nor have they replied to two emails that I have sent them. There is no contact number etc on the website nor address.

Has anyone else experienced such problems?

If any sevadars from www.SikhiShop.com are on here please can kindly contact me and if you cannot deliver the good for any reason, can you please pay back the money.

Thank you.

Daas,

Manvir Singh

email: manvir.khalsa@gmail.com

Khalsa Jee,

Benti, it would be good to contact our MPs and also the Prime Minister about the events in Punjab. With Guru Sahib's Kirpaa the Sangat have organized protests outside the Indian Embassies in London and Birmingham. But further to that UK MPs need to put pressure on the Indian High Commissioner to ensure that Sikhs in Punjab and particularly Ludhiana are safe and that justice is brought to the victims of Police brutality.

Website to email:

MPs - http://www.writetothem.com/

PM - https://email.number10.gov.uk/Contact.aspx

Suggestion for what you can email your MP and the PM with:

Dear [NAME OF PERSON YOU ARE SENDING TO]

I am emailing you in regards to the concerning events that recently took place in Ludhiana in Punjab (India).

Members of the UK Sikh community, including myself, have family members living in the area and are horrified at the police brutality used against the Sikh protestors shown in the News reports. A number of protestors died after police without warning fired bullets at the protestors and then charged at the protestors, beating unarmed people and injured them seriously.

Please see video below:

News link:

http://www.panthic.org/articles/5183

I would like you to take up this issue with the Indian High Commissioner in the UK immediately and ensure that justice is brought for the victims of the Police brutality and that the Human Rights (which includes the right to protest) of the Sikhs will be protected.

Regards,

[YOUR NAME]

Q/ Guru Jee please tell me, can Sikhs take drugs or intoxicants?

Answer:

ਮਤੀ ਮਰਣੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਿਆ ਖੁਸੀ ਕੀਤੀ ਦਿਨ ਚਾਰਿ ॥

ਸਚੁ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਤਿਨ ਸੋਫੀਆ ਰਾਖਣ ਕਉ ਦਰਵਾਰੁ॥1॥

"(The people who are intoxicated); they have forgotten death, and have fun for a few days (only). Those who do not use intoxicants are true; they dwell in the Court of Waheguru. ||1||"

(SGGS - Ang 15)

Q/ But my friends said that are certain drugs which are allowed in Sikhi. Is this true, and if so what drugs are they?

Answer:

ਭਗਤਿ ਠਗਉਰੀ ਪਾਇ ਮੋਹਹ ਅਨਤ ਕਤਹੂ ਨ ਧਾਵਹ ॥

"With the intoxicating drug of Bhagti (devotional worship) let's entice Waheguru, and not wander anywhere else."

(SGGS – Ang 846)

Q/ But Guru Jee what about those people who say its take drugs or intoxicants to get closer to Waheguru? Would that be okay?

Answer:

ਗੁਰ ਖਿਨੁ ਖਿਨੁ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਲਗਾਵਹੁ ਮੇਰੈ ਹੀਅਰੈ ਮੇਰੇ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਰਾਨਾ ॥

ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਮਰਿ ਜਾਈਐ ਮੇਰੇ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਜਿਉ ਅਮਲੀ ਅਮਲਿ ਲੁਭਾਨਾ ॥੨॥

"O Guru! Fill my heart with the constant love for Waheguru; may the Name of my Beloved become the breath of my life. Just as a drug addict is happy being intoxicated with drugs (and without the intoxicant he cannot survive, similarly) without Waheguru's Name may I die. ||2||"

(SGGS – Ang 697)

Q/ Wow! Guru Jee I never knew that. But what about the Singhs who say that its okay to take Bhang and they even give Bhang as form of Parshaad to the Sangat (called 'Sukh Nidhaan')?

ਭਉ ਤੇਰਾ ਭਾਂਗ ਖਲੜੀ ਮੇਰਾ ਚੀਤੁ ॥ ਮੈ ਦੇਵਾਨਾ ਭਇਆ ਅਤੀਤੁ ॥

ਕਰ ਕਾਸਾ ਦਰਸਨ ਕੀ ਭੂਖ ॥ ਮੈ ਦਰਿ ਮਾਗਉ ਨੀਤਾ ਨੀਤ ॥1॥

"The Fear of You, O Waheguru, is for me marijuana (cannabis); and my consciousness is the pouch that holds it. (With the marijuana of Your Love) I have become an intoxicated hermit. My hands are my begging bowl (for Your blessings); I have (spiritual) hungry for the blessed vision of Your Darshan; (and for this reason) I beg at Your Door, day after day (wishing to meet You). ||1||"

(SGGS - Ang 721)

Q/ So what happens to those people who keep saying that Sikhs can and should take Bhang and even say its part of 'Puraatan Maryada' (Sikh tradition)?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਭਾਂਗ ਮਾਛੁਲੀ ਸੁਰਾ ਪਾਨਿ ਜੋ ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਖਾਂਹਿ ॥

ਤੀਰਥ ਬਰਤ ਨੇਮ ਕੀਏ ਤੇ ਸਭੈ ਰਸਾਤਲਿ ਜਾਂਹਿ ॥233॥

"O Kabeer! Those people who drink sharaab (alcohol), consuming 'bhang' (drugs) and eat fish (meat) - no matter what pilgrimages, fasts and rituals they follow, they will all go to hell. ||233||"

(SGGS - Ang 1377)

Q/ That's serious! If this is the case, then why do Nihang Singhs and other people keep claiming they are following old Maryada and what they are doing is right?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਸਾਚਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਕਿਆ ਕਰੈ ਜਉ ਸਿਖਾ ਮਹਿ ਚੂਕ ॥

ਅੰਧੇ ਏਕ ਨ ਲਾਗਈ ਜਿਉ ਬਾਂਸੁ ਬਜਾਈਐ ਫੂਕ ॥੧੫੮॥

"O Kabeer! What can the True Guru do, when His Sikhs are at fault? The blind do not take in any of His Teachings; it is as useless as blowing into bamboo. ||158||"

(SGGS – Ang 1372)

Q/ Some people say that Guru Jee allowed Bhang to be used as a pain-relief for his soldiers and the only way to stay free from the strong affects of Bhang is by consuming a little bit of Bhang every day. Is this true?

Answer:

ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਸਾਚੀ ਹੁਜਤਿ ਦੂਰਿ ॥

ਬਹੁਤੁ ਸਿਆਣਪ ਲਾਗੈ ਧੂਰਿ ॥

"Receiving the True Teachings from the Guru, arguments depart. But through excessive cleverness, one is only plastered with dirt (of vice and corruption)."

(SGGS – Ang 352)

Q/ Thanks Guru Jee for clearing up everything because for so long I have been confused. My last question would be that if someone starts quoting scholars, old historical Granths (texts), and claiming thats its Maryada to have 5 leaves of Bhang then what quick and easy answer could I give?

Answer:

ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿਚਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਾਰੇ ॥

ਗੁਰੁ ਬਾਣੀ ਕਹੈ ਸੇਵਕੁ ਜਨੁ ਮਾਨੈ ਪਰਤਖਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਿਸਤਾਰੇ ॥੫॥

"The (Guru's) Word, Bani, is the Guru (of the Sikh), and the Guru is the Bani. Within (the Guru's) Bani, the Ambrosial Nectar is contained. If His humble servant believes and acts according to the Guru's Bani, then the Guru, in person, liberates them. ||5||"

(SGGS – Ang 982)

Question: Guru Jee please tell me can Sikhs eat meat?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਜੋਰੀ ਕੀਏ ਜੁਲਮੁ ਹੈ ਕਹਤਾ ਨਾਉ ਹਲਾਲੁ ॥

ਦਫਤਰਿ ਲੇਖਾ ਮਾਂਗੀਐ ਤਬ ਹੋਇਗੋ ਕਉਨੁ ਹਵਾਲੁ ॥੧੮੭॥

"O Kabeer! Those that use force and kill and call it lawful, after going to the Court of God, what will be their state? ||187||"

(SGGS - Ang 1374)

Question: But my friends told me that I should eat meat because it is good for me and will make me strong. Is it that bad if I have meat now and again?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਖੂਬੁ ਖਾਨਾ ਖੀਚਰੀ ਜਾ ਮਹਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਲੋਨੁ ॥

ਹੇਰਾ ਰੋਟੀ ਕਾਰਨੇ ਗਲਾ ਕਟਾਵੈ ਕਉਨੁ ॥੧੮੮॥

"O Kabeer! The dinner of beans and rice is excellent, if it is (just) flavoured with salt. I am not ready to have my own throat cut to have meat with my bread? ||188||"

(SGGS - Ang 1374)

Question: But Guru Jee, why can't Sikhs eat meat?

Answer:

ਦੂਖੁ ਨ ਦੇਈ ਕਿਸੈ ਜੀਅ ਪਤਿ ਸਿਉ ਘਰਿ ਜਾਵਉ ॥

"Do not cause any being to suffer, and you shall go to your true home with honor."

(SGGS - Ang 322)

Question: That's all good, but I have seen Nihang Singhs do Jhatka and they say that its on going tradition to slaughter goats and eat its meat. So is it okay for the Nihang Singhs to do Jhatka?

Answer:

ਜੀਅ ਬਧਹੁ ਸੁ ਧਰਮੁ ਕਰਿ ਥਾਪਹੁ ਅਧਰਮੁ ਕਹਹੁ ਕਤ ਭਾਈ ॥

ਆਪਸ ਕਉ ਮੁਨਿਵਰ ਕਰਿ ਥਾਪਹੁ ਕਾ ਕਉ ਕਹਹੁ ਕਸਾਈ ॥2॥

"You kill living beings, and call it a righteous action. Tell me, brother, what would you call an unrighteous action? If you religious people are doing "religious" killing for meat, then what is A-dharam (atheism)? If you are a religious person then whom will we call a butcher? ||2||"

(SGGS - Ang 1103)

Question: Okay. What about eating fish? I suppose that isn't really meat?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਭਾਂਗ ਮਾਛੁਲੀ ਸੁਰਾ ਪਾਨਿ ਜੋ ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਖਾਂਹਿ ॥

ਤੀਰਥ ਬਰਤ ਨੇਮ ਕੀਏ ਤੇ ਸਭੈ ਰਸਾਤਲਿ ਜਾਂਹਿ ॥੨੩੩॥

"O Kabeer! Those mortals who consume marijuana, fish and wine - no matter what pilgrimages, fasts and rituals they follow, they will all go to hell. ||233||"

(SGGS - Ang 1377)

Question: Guru Jee, can you eat meat and still do Bhagti (devotional worship)?

Answer:

ਜਉ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਏਕੁ ਖੁਦਾਇ ਕਹਤ ਹਉ ਤਉ ਕਿਉ ਮੁਰਗੀ ਮਾਰੈ ॥੧॥

"If in all is the one God, then why kill a chicken?"

(SGGS - Ang 1350)

Question: Does it affect our spirituality if we eat meat?

Answer:

ਜੇ ਰਤੁ ਲਗੈ ਕਪੜੈ ਜਾਮਾ ਹੋਇ ਪਲੀਤੁ ॥

ਜੋ ਰਤੁ ਪੀਵਹਿ ਮਾਣਸਾ ਤਿਨ ਕਿਉ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਚੀਤੁ ॥

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਉ ਖੁਦਾਇ ਕਾ ਦਿਲਿ ਹਛੈ ਮੁਖਿ ਲੇਹੁ ॥

ਅਵਰਿ ਦਿਵਾਜੇ ਦੁਨੀ ਕੇ ਝੂਠੇ ਅਮਲ ਕਰੇਹੁ ॥੧॥

"If one's clothes are stained with blood, the garment becomes polluted. Those who drink the blood of others - how can those people's consciousness be pure?"

(SGGS - Ang 140)

Question: Guru Jee does becoming a vegetarian make me religious? If I just give eating meat, does that please you?

Answer:

ਮਾਸੁ ਮਾਸੁ ਕਰਿ ਮੂਰਖੁ ਝਗੜੇ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਧਿਆਨੁ ਨਹੀ ਜਾਣੈ ॥

ਕਉਣੁ ਮਾਸੁ ਕਉਣੁ ਸਾਗੁ ਕਹਾਵੈ ਕਿਸੁ ਮਹਿ ਪਾਪ ਸਮਾਣੇ ॥

"Only the fool quarrels over the question of eating or not eating of the meat; that person does not have the True Wisdom. (Without True Wisdom or Meditation), the person harps on which is flesh and which is not flesh and which food is sinful and which is not."

(SGGS - Ang 1289-1290)

Question: So a Sikh doesn't eat meat because a Sikh should have compassion and kindness for living life, but what thing makes a person religious if just becoming a vegetarian doesn't make a person religious?

Answer:

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਤ ਮਿਟੇ ਸਭਿ ਭਰਮਾ ॥

ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਲੈ ਊਤਮ ਧਰਮਾ ॥

"Chanting the Name of the Lord all doubts are dispelled. Naam, the Name of the Lord is the highest religion."

(SGGS – Ang 874)

Question: Guru Jee thanks for clearing up things. But why is the Panth in doubt over what "Kuttha" means and whether it means Halal meat or all meat?

Answer:

ਕਬੀਰ ਸਾਚਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਕਿਆ ਕਰੈ ਜਉ ਸਿਖਾ ਮਹਿ ਚੂਕ ॥

ਅੰਧੇ ਏਕ ਨ ਲਾਗਈ ਜਿਉ ਬਾਂਸੁ ਬਜਾਈਐ ਫੂਕ ॥੧੫੮॥

"O Kabeer! What can the True Guru do, when His Sikhs are at fault? The blind do not take in any of His Teachings; it is as useless as blowing into bamboo. ||158||"

(SGGS – Ang 1372)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNB0AZfqseg

Khalsa Camp is not an "AKJ Camp".

The Camp organisers make it pretty clear throughout the camp and also in the lectures that the Camp is a Panthic camp that welcomes all and aims to promote Sikhi and Panthic Maryada. Last year there were specific talks on Panthic Eiktaa and looking beyond satkaar-yog Jathas and remembering that we are all part of the Khalsa Panth.

It is very irresponsible for the poster to make such comments as it causes confusion and opportunity for people to be mistaken and think that they are not welcome to a certain camp.

On the same note, Boss Camp doesn't label itself as a Taksaali Camp (as mentioned by K_Z Veer jee). The camp is welcome to all and promotes Sikhi and inspires particularly new comers to adopting the Sikh Path.

There is nothing wrong with Jathas. Some youth start saying "We should have no Jathabandis! They divide us." It is not the Jatha (groups) that divide us, it is our thinking (mind) that divides us and takes us away from Guru jee, let alone fellow Gursikhs.

Any Jathabandi which promotes Gurmat and inspires others to follow Guru jee should be respected and celebrated. Throughout history there have been groups/jathas. Guru Amar Daas jee made the Manji System and divided areas and made people in charge of these areas to do parchaar. Similar, during th 18th Century there were 12 (really 11) Misls or federations part of Dal Khalsa. Each Misl operated independently BUT they came under the UMBRELLA of the Panth and one thing which united them all - that is that they were all Sikhs, promoted Gurmat and considered themselves Sikhs of the Guru.

If you are part of a group. Great. It is a great support network and Sangat and helps people in their Sikhee. But we need to remember that the group is part of one family and that the group alone is not the Panth.

Sorry for long post and apologese if I ruined the thread.

May Guru jee keep us all in Chardi Kalaa and close to Guru Jee's Feet.

Hope everyone takes time out and attends Khalsa Camp this year!

Bhai Surjit Singh and other Abhiyaasee Gursikhs will be attending from India and sharing their spiritual knowledge and inspiration with the Youth.

Bhul Chuk Maaf.

1) Can I listen to the Baniya on audio, instead of reciting it because I can't read Gurmukhi... (iPod).

Doing Nitnem is compulsory. Nitnem can be recited or listened to according to the Sikh Rehit Maryada. However, if one doesn't know how to read Gurmukhi, then he or she must learn as soon as possible. With listening to Nitnem, you need more concentration, but if you read and listen at the the same time you will find it is easier to concentrate and join your mind to the Baani.

I know some Singhs who have used the Nitnem Videos made by RajKaregaKhalsa.net. It has a slide show of the Paath (Gurmukhi + English Translation + Romanized) as well as Bhai Jarnail Singh Jee (Damdami Taksaal) reciting the Paath. So its a great opportunity to listen but also learn Paath.

Morning Nitnem Banian are:

1) Japji Sahib

2) Jaap Sahib

3) Tve Prasaad Svaiyye

4) Benti Chaupai Sahib

5) Anand Sahib (full)

2) My parents are Panjabis... not like full Amritdharis... So what could I do?

A lot of Amritdhari youngsters in the West have non-Amritdhari parents.

I would suggest that you sit down with your parents and discuss with them that you wish to take Amrit. In some cases parents may be reluctant to give permission to take Amrit BUT that is usually because of some misconceptions or worries they have which can usually be cleared quickly with patients and just talking through with them.

Some parents may think it will be hard for Amritdharis to get married. But you can assure that Gursikhs will find you a rishtaa when you are ready for marriage and that are many young Gursikhs. (Perhaps take them to a Gurmat camp, Rainsbai or a youth event so that they can see young Gursikhs).

Some parents may think that taking Amrit you will hate them and look down at them. It is up to you to live up to a good character. If you project hate, inpatience, and anger towards others, then your parents will come to hate Amrit and Sikhee. But if you show pyaar and respect to your parents and keep calm even if they say something annoying to you, then they will come to respect you and other Gursikhs.

Some parents may think that Amritdharis may not get good jobs or do good at education. Again, you can reassure them that taking Amrit doesn't mean you are turning your back to the world. Guru jee says live in the world, go to school, do well, and do an honest living. Tell them that Guru jee will help you even more and that you can do even better in your life with Guru jee's blessings and that there are many successful Gursikhs with good jobs.

Do Ardaas and keep Bharosaa (faith) in Guru jee.

3) What else do I have to do, do keep my rehat?

For Khalsa Rehit please check the below:

http://www.sikhism101.com/node/67

One thing to remember Veer jee, people will give you many different opinions on what to do and what not do. Respect everyone's view, BUT ultimately our Guru is not an individual, any group, any book or any scholar. Our Guru is Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee. Guru Jee is ULTIMATE and SUPREME TRUTH. So, when someone says something to do in regards to Gurmat always check it against the teachings of Sri GurU Granth Sahib jee.

Some people may say "Eating meat is okay, but don't eat Halaal", someone else will say "Meat means no to all meat, whether halaal or jhatkaa". Some people may say you don't have to do Naam Simran, or don't have to keep full Kesh. There are some really weird views going around and as many good people who will experience, you will come across people with distorted views of Gurmat (unintentional or intentional - Guru Jaane).

So respect all, but follow what Gurbani sanctions alone.

Guru jee is Sampooran Guru and clears all "shankke" (doubts).

As meat was raised, please check this:

Can Sikhs eat meat

http://www.sikhism101.com/node/77

If Sikhs can eat meat, then why did the Guru Sahibs go hunting?

http://www.sikhism101.com/node/171

Please let me know any other tips you want to give

Please read this article on this website: http://www.sikhism101.com/node/293. "Advice for people planning to take Amrit."

Bhul chuk maaf.

Benti to everyone to email Ms. Hewitt immediately. The more email the better it is. Please try and write your own emails (even if they are short ones!). Below is an idea of what you can write:

Dear Ms Hewitt

RE: Three Leicester Sikh College Pupils Removed from sitting their Exams because of their Kirpaan

I am emailing you in regards to a Sikh student being asked to leave the exam hall because he was wearing a Kirpan. As you will know, the Kirpan is part of the religious uniform of initiated Sikhs. This is recognised by the British Law and Sikhs are protected in their right to wear the Kirpaan.

The Sikh pupil who attends Wyggeston & Queen Elizabeth I College in Leicester was sitting his Sociology exam today (12th May) at 9am. At 9.15am one of the examiners saw his Kirpaan poking out of his jacket. When he was asked whether he was wearing a dagger. He replied he was wearing a Kirpaan. The Vice-Principal was called in who said that he was not allowed to wear the Kirpaan and be in the exam. When two other Sikh students who also wear the Kirpaan protested at the Vice-Principal's decision, they too were summoned out of the exam.

I am shocked and appauled that a school can be so ignorant about the Sikh faith and the British Law. Three Sikh students' exams were disturbed and they were caused immense grief as a result of a group of teacher's prejudice.

I urge you to please take immediate action and request the school recognises the legal right of the Sikh college students to wear the Kirpaan and be able to sit their exams without any hinderance.

I have CC'ed MP Rob Marris (Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for UK Sikhs) and MP John McDonnell (Chair of All Party Parliamentary Group for Punjabis in Britain)

Below are details of the college:

Wyggeston & Queen Elizabeth I College

University Road

Leicester

LE1 7RJ

Tel: (0116) 2231900

Fax: (0116) 2231999

http://www.wqeic.ac.uk/

I hope to hear from you as soon as possible on this case.

Regards,

...

Sangat Jee,

I just got a phone call from someone who has rang India and spoken to the Darshani Deori sevadaar.

The SGPC sevadaar said that Beadbi DID happen today.

A man threw water or liquid at Guru Maharaaj's Saroop but its NOT acid or any corrosive substance. SGPC has caught the man and have the plastic bottle in their possession.

I was told that "the anti-media group" is using this incident and spreading it like wildfire for their own personal interests of cancelling the upcoming Panjab Assembly elections.

"Anti-media group" - now, does that mean Badal? Congress? or someone else. I am unsure. I didn't get time to ask the person who rang me.

Guru Raakhaa.

Informative article on Sikhism101 website > http://sikhism101.com/node/57

Think the article on there is originally from Tapoban forum.

Dhan Bhagat Dhanna Jee ! Vadhaayee to everyone on Bhagat Jee's Parkaash Diwas.

The SikhiWiki article story seems to be incorrect.

Here is an article from Sikhism101 which shows that the story doesn't make sense according to Gurbani...

http://www.sikhism101.com/node/222

What do you know of Bhagat Dhanna Ji and the story of God revealing himself through a stone?

Bhagat Dhanna Ji's father's name was Bhai Maahee Ji. His family were a simple farmers who belonged to the Dhuan village, in the MaarvaaR area in Rajasthan. Bhagat Ji was born in 1415.

Bhagat Dhanna Ji obtained a 'Saalgaraam' (small stone idol) from a Brahman, and began doing its pooja (worship). He decorated the idol and prepared food, which he placed before it. However, the idol did not speak, nor did eat or do anything! Disappointed, he returned back to the Brahman and returned the stone idol.

He said to the Brahman, "The stone idol god seems angry with me, as he is not eating the food I prepare." The Brahman told him the real the truth of the matter to Bhagat Dhanna Ji: "This is a stone, it does not eat or drink, God is someone else." This incident had a profound effect on Bhagat Dhanna Ji and eventually he joined the Sangat of Gurmukhs like Bhagat Ramanand Ji and eventually Guru Nanak Sahib Ji.

----------RESPONSE TO THE FALSE STORY AND MIS-INFORMATION----------

Sadly, there are many stories told in our Gurdwaré by ignorant Katha-vaachiks and parchaariks (preachers). These distorted stories of Bhagat Dhanna Ji have been coined up by dubious individuals and groups who have an agenda. Gurmat is clear that idol-worship is fruitless and by worshipping a stone, one drowns with it!

So, how can we have a story that says that Bhagat Dhanna Ji made food and put if before the stone idol. The stone idol did not eat the food and Bhagat Dhanna Ji remained hungry, as he was not going to eat until the Lord eats first. Not being able to see His devotee go hungry and go through this torment, God revealed himself through the stone statue and ate the food. Seeing this miracle Bhagat Dhanna Ji became happy. This version of the story is nonsense. When our Guru is alive and with us, then why do we place such faith in such distorted stories?

Why not ask Guru Sahib for the answer? Well, if we placed more faith in Guru Granth Sahib Ji rather than twisted historians, ignorant parchaariks and RSS propaganda then we would not bee in this confusion.

ਨਾਮਾ ਜੈਦੇਉ ਕੰਬੀਰੁ ਤ੍ਰਿਲੋਚਨੁ ਅਉਜਾਤਿ ਰਵਿਦਾਸੁ ਚਮਿਆਰੁ ਚਮਈਆ ॥

ਜੋ ਜੋ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਾਧੂ ਜਨ ਸੰਗਤਿ ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨਾ ਜਟੁ ਸੈਣੁ ਮਿਲਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਦਈਆ ॥7॥

"Naam Dev, Jai Dev, Kabeer, Trilochan and Ravi Daas the low-caste leather-worker, blessed Dhanna and Sain; all those who joined the humble Saadh Sangat, met the Merciful Lord, Waheguru. ||7||"

(Ang 835)

Guru Raam Daas Ji is clear of how Bhagat Dhanna Ji met and experienced Waheguru. Is it through worshipping a lifeless stone? Is it through God revealing himself through a stone? No. It is through the "Saadh Sangat", the company of the Holy.

Furthermore Guru Arjan Dev Ji has also said in Gurbani how Bhagat Dhanna Ji became a devotee of God and became absorbed into Waheguru. And the answer is not that he saw God in a lifeless stone idol.

ਮਹਲਾ 5 ॥ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸੰਗਿ, ਨਾਮਦੇਉ ਮਨੁ ਲੀਣਾ ॥ ਆਢ ਦਾਮ ਕੋ ਛੀਪਰੋ, ਹੋਇਓ ਲਾਖੀਣਾ ॥1॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ ਬੁਨਨਾ ਤਨਨਾ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਕੈ, ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਚਰਨ ਕਬੀਰਾ ॥ ਨੀਚ ਕੁਲਾ ਜੋਲਾਹਰਾ, ਭਇਓ ਗੁਨੀਯ ਗਹੀਰਾ ॥1॥ ਰਵਿਦਾਸੁ ਢੁਵੰਤਾ ਢੋਰ ਨੀਤਿ, ਤਿਨਿ ਤਿਆਗੀ ਮਾਇਆ ॥ ਪਰਗਟੁ ਹੋਆ ਸਾਧ ਸੰਗਿ, ਹਰਿ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥2॥ ਸੈਨੁ ਨਾਈ ਬੁਤਕਾਰੀਆ, ਓਹੁ ਘਰਿ ਘਰਿ ਸੁਨਿਆ ॥ ਹਿਰਦੇ ਵਸਿਆ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ, ਭਗਤਾ ਮਹਿ ਗਨਿਆ ॥3॥ ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਸੁਨਿ ਕੈ ਜਾਟਰੋ, ਉਠਿ ਭਗਤੀ ਲਾਗਾ ॥ ਮਿਲੇ ਪ੍ਰਤਖਿ ਗੁਸਾਈਆ, ਧੰਨਾ ਵਡ ਭਾਗਾ ॥4॥2॥

"Fifth Mehl: Naam Dayv's mind was absorbed into Waheguru, Gobind, Gobind, Gobind. The calico-printer, worth half a shell, became worth millions. ||1||Pause|| Abandoning weaving and stretching thread, Kabeer enshrined love for the Waheguru's lotus feet. A weaver from a lowly family, he became an ocean of excellence. ||1|| Ravi Daas, who used to carry dead cows every day, renounced the world of Maya. He became famous in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, and obtained the Blessed Vision of the Waheguru's Darshan. ||2|| Sain, the barber, the village drudge, became famous in each and every house. The Supreme Lord Waheguru dwelled in his heart, and he was counted among the devotees. ||3|| Hearing this, Dhanna the Jaat (farmer) applied himself to devotional worship. Waheguru, the Lord of the Universe met him personally; Dhanna was so very blessed. ||4||2||"

(Ang 488)

"Hearing this, Dhanna the Jaat (farmer) applied himself to devotional worship" (ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਸੁਨਿ ਕੈ ਜਾਟਰੋ, ਉਠਿ ਭਗਤੀ ਲਾਗਾ ॥) Hearing what? Guru Sahib gives the answer to this question by reading the full shabad together. By reading the shabad by using the line "Hearing this" (ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਸੁਨਿ ਕੈ). Bhagat Dhanna Ji heard the praise of Bhagat Naam Dev Ji, he heard of the state of Bhagat Kabeer Ji, he heard the way of Bhagat Ravidaas Ji, and he heard of the popularity of Bhagat Sain Ji. Hearing this, feeling of loving-devotion and wanting to do Bhagti welled up within Bhagat Dhanna Ji.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji placed this shabad purposefully in Bhagat Dhanna Ji's Bani, illustrating that the ignorant people of Guru Sahib's time were being misled on how Bhagat Dhanna Ji began his Bhagti (devotional worship) through ridiculous stories about idol worship. Those stories have been dismissed with this shabad, as it is written in the shabad that the real reason for Bhagat Dhanna Ji being absorbed in Waheguru was through being inspired by hearing the spiritual state of Bhagat Naam Dev Ji, Bhagat Ravidaas Ji, and Bhagat Sain Ji.

If we try to find the truth from Sri Guru Granth Sahib, and instead of following stories passed down from others, which are mixed with lines of Gurbani, we should take the benefit of going straight to the source of truth. If we did this, then there would be no confusion or duality over Bhagat Dhanna Ji.

If Bhagat Dhanna Ji met Waheguru through worshipping a stone, then this means that as a result of Guru Arjan Dev Ji including the Bani of a someone who has supposedly found God by worshipping a stone, Guru Sahib has accepted that one can meet and experience God through a lifeless stone. But Guru Sahib's Hukam (order) is:

ਸੂਹੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੫ ॥

ਘਰ ਮਹਿ ਠਾਕੁਰੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਨ ਆਵੈ ॥ ਗਲ ਮਹਿ ਪਾਹਣੁ ਲੈ ਲਟਕਾਵੈ ॥੧॥

ਭਰਮੇ ਭੂਲਾ ਸਾਕਤੁ ਫਿਰਤਾ ॥ ਨੀਰੁ ਬਿਰੋਲੈ ਖਪਿ ਖਪਿ ਮਰਤਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

ਜਿਸੁ ਪਾਹਨ ਕਉ ਠਾਕੁਰੁ ਕਹਤਾ ॥ ਉਹੁ ਪਾਹਨੁ ਲੈ ਉਸ ਕਉ ਡੁਬਤਾ ॥2॥

ਗੁਨਹਗਾਰੁ ਲੂਣ ਹਰਾਮੀ ॥ ਪਾਹਨ ਨਾਵ ਨ ਪਾਰਗਰਾਮੀ ॥3॥

ਗੁਰ ਮਿਲਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਠਾਕੁਰੁ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ ਜਲਿ ਥਲਿ ਮਹੀਅਲਿ ਪੂਰਨ ਬਿਧਾਤਾ ॥੪॥੩॥੯॥

"Soohee, Fifth Mehl: Within the home of his own self, he (the faithless cynic) does not even come to see his Lord and Master. And yet, around his neck, he hangs a stone (idol) god. ||1|| The faithless cynic wanders around, deluded by doubt. (By performing idol worship) he (only) churns water, and after the useless efforts, he spiritually dies. ||1||Pause|| That stone, which he calls his god, that stone pulls him down and drowns him. ||2|| O sinner! You are untrue to your own self; a boat of stone will not carry you across (and a stone idol will not carry you across the ocean of life). ||3|| O Nanak! Whosoever meets the Guru and obtains spiritual wisdom of God, comes to know that the Lord and Master, The Perfect Architect of Destiny is pervading and permeating the water, the land and the sky. ||4||3||9||"

(Ang 739)

Therefore, it is clear that Bhagat Danna Ji did not experience Waheguru through worhsipping a stone, but instead through the Saadh Sangat and being inspired by other Bhagats, which brought Bhagat Dhanna Ji to meet the True Guru, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji.

http://www.sikhism101.com/node/222

Fateh

where did bhai sahib leave his body? UK?

Bhai Randheer Singh jee never travelled abroad. He passed away in Ludhiana.

Childhood

Bhai Randheer Singh jee was born on 7th July 1878 in village Narangwal (Ludhiana district). At birth his parents named him 'Basant Singh'. His father, Bhai Natha Singh, was a learned scholar of Panjabi, Urdu, Persian and English, who initially worked as a District Inspector of Schools but later rose to the rank of a Judge in the High Court of the State of Nabha. As a Judge, he became well known for combining justice with mercy, compassion and humanity. His mother, Mata Panjab Kaur, was a very pious and devoted Sikh. Bhai Sahib was successful in his studies and was not only an intelligent and committed student but also a good sportsman. He had a great memory, which later served him in reproducing details of his experiences during his prison life.

Receiving Amrit

Since the day his father gave him a Gutka of Japji Sahib to read during his college studies, Bhai Randheer Singh jee developed a spiritual thirst and yearning for Waheguru. On 14th June 1903, Bhai Sahib along with his Muslim friend, Maulvi Kareem Baksh, took Amrit. As a result of him taking Amrit with a Muslim he was despised of by the Sikhs of his own village and some of his relatives; the Brahmanical influenced 'Pujari' (custodian) of Sri Akaal Takht Sahib refused to accept Karaah Parshaad offered by Bhai Sahib and he was denied the right to do Keertan. Despite this Bhai Sahib remained steadfast and practising Guru's ordained Rehat (discipline) became the passion of his life, even at the risk of losing his health and life.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee Revealing Gurmantar

Bhai Randheer Singhjee firmly believed that receiving Amrit was a spiritual rebirth and not a mere ritual, provided that the Amrit Sanchaar is conducted strictly in accordance to the rules and procedures laid down by Guru Sahib. At the time of his own Amrit Sanchaar, Bhai Sahib was left disturbed and confused about the true Gurmantar because an intruding outsider told him the Gurmantar rather than the Panj Pyaare. He felt that there was a Mystic Word prescribed as Gurumantar for the Sikhs which also formed the central theme of Gurbani - a particular 'Naam' - and it was possible to repeat it with every breath. He firmly believed that only through constant repetition of, and meditation on, this Mystic Word could complete self realization and oneness with Waheguru be attained. Believing Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee to be the embodiment of the Ten Gurus, Bhai Sahib did an Ardaas for the Great Guru to reveal the true Gurmantar and give him Naam. In a miraculous incident the Hukamnama from Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee indicated correctly that "Waheguru" was the Gurmantar and he was blessed with the technique of its constant repetition. Receiving Naam, Bhai Sahib was yearned to now attain Waheguru through devotion and practice of Naam and devotional service of Guru Sahib.

The Gurdwara Reform Movement

After his Divine-experience Bhai Sahib resigned his Government job and dedicated his life in the service of the Panth (nation). He took the initiative in fearlessly clearing the malpractices in the various historical Gurdwaras. Once, at Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib on Gurpurb, he fearlessly protested and stopped a Patit Raagi (who was known for committing adultery) to do Keertan. It was for such deeds of Gurdwara reform that he has been referred to as the pioneer of the Gurdwara Reform Movement. In 1914, when the British demolished the wall of the historical Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in New Delhi to beautify the surroundings of the then newly built Parliament House, Bhai Sahib was the first to protest publicly against this desecration of the Holy Shrine, and announce his specific plans to spearhead the agitation until the razed wall was restored. He was also instrumental in organizing two large Panthic Conferences in this connection, at Patti in District Amritsar, and at Lahore, to pass the Resolutions condemning the British action, and demanding the restoration of the razed wall. These conferences were the first of their kind after the British occupation of Panjab.

The Freedom Movement

Being a Gursikh Bhai Randheer Singh jee could not tolerate the oppression and slavery imposed by the British rulers. He joined the Ghadar ("Revolution") Movement that had active members in the USA and Canada. Bhai Sahib was the only leader of note from Panjab who, along with his companions, participated in that revolt. The Ghadar movement was betrayed and their British came to know of their plans. On 9th May 1915 Bhai Randheer Singh jee and his companions were arrested and tried in what is commonly known as the Second Lahore Conspiracy case. In 1916, at the age of 38, with a wife and three young children to provide for, he was sentenced to life imprisonment and his property was confiscated. His eldest daughter (10 at the time), who could not bear being separated from her dear father, died within a month of his imprisonment. His son Balbir Singh was only 6 years old and his daughter Daler Kaur was just 2.

Steadfast in Jail

During his 15 years in prison Bhai Sahib faced many sufferings, not for any political or personal reasons, but only because of his determination to live strictly in accordance with the Khalsa Code of Conduct. In Multan jail, one of the hottest places in India (now in Pakistan) with temperatures going up to 122°F in May and June, he remained without food and water continuously for 40 days. This was because he was not allowed to prepare his food himself according to the Gurmat principles and he would not take food prepared by non-Amritdharis. He was chained to iron gates in the open for many days to face the scorching heat of the sun and bear the brunt of hot winds. At night he was put into a 6' x 4' cell without ventilation. This is only one instance of the many tortures inflicted upon him. On two occasions Bhai Sahib's family gave him up as dead. Even after suffering such inhuman tortures, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and never once wavered from following strictly the Khalsa Code of Conduct. Due to Bhai Sahib's sacrifices the Jail Manual was amended to allow Sikh prisoners to wear a small turban (Keski), Kachhehra, and Karra. When the Khalsa Panth came to know of his tortuous sufferings, the whole Panth observed a special Ardaas for Bhai Randheer Singh jee and the other Gursikhs on 1st February 1923.

Meeting with Shaheed Bhagat Singh

Prior to his release from prison in Lahore, the well-known Shaheed Bhagat Singh, who was waiting execution in the same prison, expressed a desire to meet Bhai Sahib before his death. On being approached, Bhai Sahib refused to see him saying "...he has violated the basic tenets of Sikhi by shaving off his hair and hence I do not want to see him." Bhagat Singh was quick to express his repentance and also confessed that he, in fact, was an atheist at heart. He further told Bhai Sahib that even then, perhaps, he would have kept the Sikh appearance, but if he had done that he would have lost the friendship and sympathy of his Hindu comrades and would not have received so much publicity in the press. After a 2 hour meeting with Bhai Sahib, he became a true Sikh at heart and accepted to keep his hair unshorn, and went to the gallows as a true believer in Waheguru.

Release from Prison & Honour from the Panth

Soon after his release in 1930, Bhai Sahib was honoured by Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib with a Hukumnama (edict) and a robe of honour, recognizing his steadfastness in faith and selfless sacrifices. He is the second person to have been honoured by Sri Akaal Takht Sahib during the 19th century, the other person being Baba Kharak Singh jee, the renowned Panthic leader of the late 1920s. Afterwards, the other (then) three Takhts also honoured him in the same way, thus making him the only single person to have been honoured from all the (then) Takhts in the last 100 years of Sikh history. Robes of honour and a gold medallion were also sent to him by the Sikhs of U.S.A. and Canada. He was selected as one of the Panj Pyaare to inaugurate the Kaar Sevaa of the sarovar of Gurdwara Tarn Taaran Sahib, and to lay the foundation stones of the new buildings of the Gurdwaras at Panja Sahib and Shaheedganj Nankana Sahib, besides those of the Bungas at Patna Sahib and Kavi Darbaar Asthaan at Paonta Sahib.

Gurmat Parchaar

After his release from prison, Bhai Sahib lived for over 30 years during which time he travelled throughout the country and propagated the true Gursikh way of life through Gurbani Keertan and Paatth. A large number of Sikhs were drawn to him magnetically, and he directed them to and brought them in direct touch with the infinite wealth of Gurbani. In this way, the Akhand Kirtani Jatha came to be formed. According to him, the principles of life pointed out in Gurbani and prescribed in the Khalsa Code of Conduct are not merely ideals but completely practical. He himself conformed to and lived in accordance with these principles in letter and spirit, even in the midst of the most unfavourable and tortuous circumstances of jail life. Bhai Sahib wrote about two dozen books on Sikh spirituality and different themes and topics from Gurbani that inspired and continue to inspire countless people.

The Final Moments

In 1961 Bhai Sahib's leg veins became weak due to having spent so much time in the dark dungeons during his imprisoned life, though the rest of his body was healthy. He only had trouble walking about. On 13th April 1961, all the Jatha came to see Bhai Sahib for Vaisakhi. On 14th April he wished good bye to everyone and sent them off. On 16th April Bhai Sahib seemed restless as though the time had arrived for the great soul to leave. At 7.30am Bhai Sahib breathed his last with "Waheguru" on his lips.

http://manvirsingh.blogspot.com/2009/04/in...b-randheer.html

AMRIT SANCHAAR - Sunday 12th April, 2009

ਪੀਵਹੁ ਪਾਹੁਲ ਖੰਡੇਧਾਰ ਹੋਇ ਜਨਮ ਸੁਹੇਲਾ ||

"Drink the Amrit nectar of double edged Khanda sword and accomplish the worth of your birth."

Amrit Sanchar during Rainsbaaee - Sun 12th April, 2009

Guru Nanak Gurdwara,

Well Lane,

Wolverhampton, WV11 1XT

Contact: Jathedaar Bhai Raghbir Singh Jee - 01926 740160

Free Transport from across the country. Contacts:

Southall – Bhai Satnam Singh: 07956 519256

Manchester – Bhai Mandeep Singh: 07791 775671

Birmingham - Bhai Bhupinder Singh: 07725 973836

Coventry - Bhai Taranjit Singh: 07877 888874

Hitchin - Bhai Nachitar Singh: 07828 253496

Derby - Bhai Ajeet Singh: 07533 362911

East London - Bhai Upkar Singh: 07747 770156

Bradford - Bhai Kamaljeet Singh: 07971 185457

Glasgow - Bhai Manjeet Singh: 07833 491570

Southshields - Bhai Karnail Singh: 07801 431855

If any Sangat members get a reply from their MP then can they kindly post it on the forum so that the Sangat can see how much progress /awareness is being achieved.

Guru Raakha.

Sangat Jee this letter has been drafted up as a template which the Sangat can use to send to their local MP. Everyone who has not yet contacted their MP is requested to play their small part in AT LEAST copying and pasting the letter below (not forgetting to add your MP's name at the top and your name at the bottom) and emailing it to your local MP.

Bhul Chuk Maaf.

Guru Ang Sang Sahaaee Hovai.

Dear [add MP Name]

RE: Community Attack - Serious Action Required

I am writing to you in concern with Sikh Gurdwara that was set alight and burnt to the ground on 16^th March 2009 in Bow, East London. This attack has left the Sikh community across the country in deep shock and want the authorities to carry out a thorough investigation to catch the culprits.

According eyewitnesses inside the Gurdwara during the attack, they saw a black/mixed-raced unidentified person running through the Gurdwara building just before the congregation realised that the building has been set alight. The fire was a direct attack on the Sikh community which has been ignored by the main stream media and handled poorly by the police. The attacker(s) burnt eleven copies of the Sikhs’ Sacred Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, which the Sikhs revere as the Living Guru, the Living Voice of eternal wisdom that guides the community and teaches a humanitarian embracing message. The burning of one copy of Guru Granth Sahib is considered the most sacrilegious of all acts, however the burning of eleven copies of Guru Granth Sahib has scared the UK Sikh community.

No arrests have been made by the Police and this has brought about feelings of frustration, anxiety and anger amongst the Sikh Community which is bent upon ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Failure of finding the culprits motivates the individual or gang and others to do a similar attack on other Gurdwaras.

There is a strong feeling amongst the Sikh Community that the Police do not understand the gravity of the crime or that the Police do not care. The community feel that this crime is low on the list of Police priorities. This is illustrated by the fact that they interpreted the crime as being a criminal act to "property", thereby treating the incident only as one of arson.

I urge you to bring forward this matter to the police and government, as the growing feeling of resentment towards the Police needs to be taken seriously.

I await a response from you.

Regards,

[Name]

Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Ke Pyaare.

Bhai Sahib will be greatly missed.

Daas has written a small tribute to Bhai Sahib....

http://manvirsingh.blogspot.com/2009/03/in...rmal-singh.html

Dhan Guru Nanak.

may be this is one you need. I dn;t know exactly it is in Raag Gauri or not but when i got that cd it was written on that ..

Bhai Nirmal Singh

http://keertan.gurmatchanan.com/keertan/an...Nirmal+Singh+ji

Brilliant to listen to!

Yesterday was the Prakaash Diwas (birth day) of Bhagat Ravidaas jee

.

Below is a short article on Bhagat Ravidaas jee:

Background

Bhagat Ravidaas jee was born on Ravivaar (Sunday) into family whose members were declared untouchable by the ancient Indian caste-system philosophy. According to the ancient caste system, humans were 'in principle' high or low according to their birth and no action could alter this inferiority or superiority. Bhagat jee was born into the family of Bhai Santokh Daas jee and Bibi Kalsi Devi Jee, who were poor leather-makers ('Chamaars') by caste and occupation. He was barely five days old when Bhagat Ramanand jee visited his house and blessed the child.

ਜਿਹ ਕੁਲ ਸਾਧੁ ਬੈਸਨੌ ਹੋਇ ॥

ਬਰਨ ਅਬਰਨ ਰੰਕੁ ਨਹੀ ਈਸੁਰੁ ਬਿਮਲ ਬਾਸੁ ਜਾਨੀਐ ਜਗਿ ਸੋਇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

"That family, into which a devotee of Waheguru is born, whether of high or low social class, whether rich or poor, shall have its pure fragrance spread all over the world. ||1||Pause||"

(Bhagat Ravidaas jee, Ang 858)

Adulthood

When Bhagat jee was old enough, he got married and his father inspired him to join the family business. But Bhagat Ravidaas jee was absorbed in devotion of Waheguru. The money he received from his father for business, he spent in the welfare of the Saints and needy. His father was extremely angry with him and threw him out of the house. Bhagat jee did not regret his actions and quietly left home and began to live in a small hut with his wife where they decided to set up a small shop of making and repairing shoes.

ਨਾਗਰ ਜਨਾਂ ਮੇਰੀ ਜਾਤਿ ਬਿਖਿਆਤ ਚੰਮਾਰੰ ॥

ਰਿਦੈ ਰਾਮ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਗੁਨ ਸਾਰੰ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

"O humble townspeople! I am obviously just a Chamaar, shoemaker, (which you people consider low), but in my heart I cherish the Glories of Waheguru (and for this reason I am no longer low). ||1||Pause||"

(Bhagat Ravidaas jee, Ang 1293)

Meeting the True Guru

Bhagat Ravidas jee was a contemporary of Guru Nanak Dev jee. We know this as Mira Bai who lived during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar was a disciple of Bhagat Ravidaas jee. Janamsaakhis and 'Tvareek Guru Khalsa' (p. 80) mention that the Bhagats met Guru Nanak Dev Jee. According to the Meharvaan Janamsaakhi, the Bhagats met Guru Nanak Dev jee at Ayodhya. From reading Gurbani, the Bhagats clearly state that they found the True Guru and that received Amrit & Naam from the Satguru, who can only be Satguru Nanak. Therefore, Bhagat Ravidaas jee became a disciple of Guru Nanak Dev jee. A Gurdwara Sahib is constructed in Ayodha in memory of the historic meeting between Guru jee and the Bhagats.

ਪਰਮ ਪਰਸ ਗੁਰੁ ਭੇਟੀਐ ਪੂਰਬ ਲਿਖਤ ਲਿਲਾਟ ॥

ਉਨਮਨ ਮਨ ਮਨ ਹੀ ਮਿਲੇ ਛੁਟਕਤ ਬਜਰ ਕਪਾਟ ॥੬॥

"When one's pre-ordained destiny awakens and one meets the True Guru, who is the Supreme Philosopher's Stone, then the inner-soul meets with the Supreme Soul, and the stubborn doors of the mind are opened wide. ||6||"

(Bhagat Ravidaas jee, Ang 346)

The Revealing of 'Dhur Kee Baanee'

With True Guru's Grace, Bhagat jee reached God-consciousness (Brahm-Gyaan) and experienced Waheguru's Divine Light. He was blessed with the gift of revealing Gurbani sent by Waheguru for the benefit of humanity. Forty Shabads were revealed through Bhagat jee that were later incorporated in Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee by Guru Arjan Dev jee. One may think why wasn't Bhagat Ravidaas jee called 'Guru' if he revealed Gurbani? The late Giani Sant Singh Maskeen gave the following analogy to explain the difference between Guru and Bhagat. There is one child who opens his eyes and realizes he is sitting in his mother's lap, and other has to crawl to his mother and then sits in her lap. Then Ten Sikh Gurus had Brahm-Gyaan from the very beginning. They opened their eyes and they were already sitting in the lap of Waheguru. On the other hand, the Bhagats were those who in some point of their life, after spiritual work and effort, experienced the Divine Light and sat in the lap of Waheguru Once they reached this level, Waheguru revealed the Shabad Guru to humanity through these chosen Bhagats. As a consequence there is no difference between the Shabad (Gurbaani) revealed through the Sikh Gurus and the Bhagats. Both are 'Gurbani'.

ਘਟਿ ਘਟਿ ਗੁਪਤੁ ਉਪਾਏ ਵੇਖੈ ਪਰਗਟੁ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾ ॥

ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਹਿ ਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗਿ ਭੀਨੇ ਹਰਿ ਜਲੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨਾ ॥੩॥

"The Lord who created the whole creation and watches over all is hidden in each and every heart; He reveals Himself in the humble saints who fall at the feet of the Guru. Those saints chant the Name of the Lord and are drenched with the Lord's Love. Their minds are drenched with the Ambrosial Water of the Naam, the Name of the Lord. ||3||"

(Guru Nanak Dev jee, Ang 1171)

The Queen of Chitaur

The queen of Chitaur, Maharani Jhally, had heard of Bhagat Ravidaas jee's greatness. On pilgrimage to Banaaras she visited Bhagat Ravidaas jee and heard Gurbani being sung. Hearing the Divine Praises of Waheguru she became a follower of Bhagat jee. However, the king got enraged on hearing that that his wife had made a low-caste cobbler her Guru. The queen tried to convince her husband of Bhagat jee's greatness which made his mind confused whether or not Bhagat jee was a great saint or not. In order to test Bhagat jee, the king invited him to Chitaur and requested to participate in a religious feast. The Brahmin priests refused to eat alongside a low-caste. Hearing this Bhagat jee moved away. But miraculously, the Brahmins started seeing every person distributing food look like Bhagat jee. They complained to the king. The king understood the mystery and meaning of the incident and became a follower of Bhagat jee.

ਮੇਰੀ ਜਾਤਿ ਕੁਟ ਬਾਂਢਲਾ ਢੋਰ ਢੋਵੰਤਾ ਨਿਤਹਿ ਬਾਨਾਰਸੀ ਆਸ ਪਾਸਾ ॥

ਅਬ ਬਿਪ੍ਰ ਪਰਧਾਨ ਤਿਹਿ ਕਰਹਿ ਡੰਡਉਤਿ ਤੇਰੇ ਨਾਮ ਸਰਣਾਇ ਰਵਿਦਾਸੁ ਦਾਸਾ ॥੩॥੧॥

"It is my occupation to prepare and cut leather; each day, I carry the carcasses out of the city. But (O Waheguru!) Your slave who was born in that social-class has come into the sanctuary of Your Naam (Divine-Name), and now the important Brahmins of the city bow down before me. ||3||1||"

(Bhagat Ravidaas jee, Ang 1293)

Undying Faith in Naam

It is said that once a wealthy man felt sorry at Bhagat Ravidaas jee living in poverty and so offered Bhagat jee with the gift of a 'paaras' (the philosopher's stone that turns cheaper metal into Gold). The man assured Bhagat jee that he could get any amount of wealth by making use of it. Bhagat jee asked him to place it in a corner. A few month later, when the same man came to see Bhagat Ravidaas jee, he found the Bhagat jee still living in poverty. He asked Bhagat jee why he had not used the philosopher's stone. Bhagat jee replied, "God's Name alone is the paaras."

ਕਹੁ ਰਵਿਦਾਸ ਸਭੈ ਨਹੀ ਸਮਝਸਿ ਭੂਲਿ ਪਰੇ ਜੈਸੇ ਬਉਰੇ ॥

ਮੋਹਿ ਅਧਾਰੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਾਰਾਇਨ ਜੀਵਨ ਪ੍ਰਾਨ ਧਨ ਮੋਰੇ ॥੩॥੧॥

"O Ravidaas! Say- (those who have been plundered by desires) all run around deluded like madmen and do not understand (that the true support of Life is Waheguru's Name); I have the Lord's Name as my only Support; He is my life, my breath of life, my wealth. ||3||1||"

(Bhagat Ravidaas jee, Ang 974

Bhagat jee lived to a ripe old age of 151 years, and died in 1529 at Chittor, in Rajasthan. An umbrella-like tomb in his memory still stands there. It was Bhagat Ravidaas jee' firm faith in Waheguru that he was able to ultimately achieve oneness and union with the Creator.

http://manvirsingh.blogspot.com/2009/02/bh...vidaas-jee.html

I hope that ALL Guru Ghars can use this sign made by Veer jee.

Sometimes we "assume" that everyone washes their hands before picking up spoons but its not the case. I remember a few times I have seen people have Parshaad then lick their hands and then go towards the Langar hall to pick a thaal and get Langar. I usually stop the person and kindly ask them to wash their hands before going to the Langar hall. Most, if not all, the times people are very friendly about it (as long as you nicely ask them) and say they either forgot or didn't know. A simple sign would save the hassle and remind all the Sangat.

I hope people can put these up in their local Guru Ghar up and down the country.

According to Proffesor Sahib Singh's 'Guru Granth Darpan'...

'Adam', known as 'Baba Aadam' is mentioned once in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Shabad is revealed through Baba Kabeer Ji on Ang 1161 of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

The Muslim describes the greatness of his God that he has seven thousand angels, one hundred and twenty five thousand Prophets, etc.; and that God lives in the Seventh Sky above Earth. In this Shabad (hymn) Baba Kabeer Ji offers a reply that I am a Weaver by background, even if I become a Muslim, I will remain poor. You say that your God's Court is in the Seventh Sky; no one will bother to notice me there and nor can I travel that far. According to Islam the most perfect man created by God was Adam, who is believed to be the first human. However, Baba Kabeer Ji points out that if the most perfect man is chucked out of paradise (i.e. the casting out of Adam and Eve from Eden) then what hope is there for anyone else? Instead Baba Kabeer Ji says that he prefers to remain drawn and in the presence of God's Lotus Feet, which for him is Heaven.

ਸਤਰਿ ਸੈਇ ਸਲਾਰ ਹੈ ਜਾ ਕੇ ॥ ਸਵਾ ਲਾਖੁ ਪੈਕਾਬਰ ਤਾ ਕੇ ॥ ਸੇਖ ਜੁ ਕਹੀਅਹਿ ਕੋਟਿ ਅਠਾਸੀ ॥ ਛਪਨ ਕੋਟਿ ਜਾ ਕੇ ਖੇਲ ਖਾਸੀ ॥੧॥

(O person!) The God (you say) has 7,000 commanders, and (you say) has one hundred and twenty-five thousand prophets serving Him; He is said to have 88,000,000 old sheikhs (living at His door), and who (you say) has 56,000,000 attendants (up to His court). ||1||

ਮੋ ਗਰੀਬ ਕੀ ਕੋ ਗੁਜਰਾਵੈ ॥ ਮਜਲਸਿ ਦੂਰਿ ਮਹਲੁ ਕੋ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

I am meek and poor - what chance do I have of being heard there? (Then you say that) His Court is so far away (in the seventh sky); (I am a poor Weaver,) who will find God's House? ||1||Pause||

ਤੇਤੀਸ ਕਰੋੜੀ ਹੈ ਖੇਲ ਖਾਨਾ ॥ ਚਉਰਾਸੀ ਲਖ ਫਿਰੈ ਦਿਵਾਨਾਂ ॥ ਬਾਬਾ ਆਦਮ ਕਉ ਕਿਛੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਦਿਖਾਈ ॥ ਉਨਿ ਭੀ ਭਿਸਤਿ ਘਨੇਰੀ ਪਾਈ ॥੨॥

(The people who talk of Heaven also say that) He has 33,000,000 angels as His servants (how will they even listen to me?). His beings (separated and lost) wander insanely through 8.4 million incarnations. (O person! You say that God kept 'Adam' (the supposed father of Mankind) in Paradise, but according to you) when God (according to His Will) glanced his eye of Grace on Adam, then that Adam only enjoyed Paradise for a short while (because he was removed from there, so if people like Adam have been removed, then tell me, how long will someone like me be allowed to last there?) ||2||

ਦਿਲ ਖਲਹਲੁ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਜਰਦ ਰੂ ਬਾਨੀ ॥ ਛੋਡਿ ਕਤੇਬ ਕਰੈ ਸੈਤਾਨੀ ॥ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਦੋਸੁ ਰੋਸੁ ਹੈ ਲੋਈ ॥ ਅਪਨਾ ਕੀਆ ਪਾਵੈ ਸੋਈ ॥੩॥

Those who have forsaken (the path shown in) their religious-books and turn to follow bad practices, their hearts are disturbed (with wickedness and corruption), and their faces turn pale (i.e. he or she get pushed away from Waheguru's Door). A person receives the fruits of one's own action, but (in ignorance) one blames others, and gets angry with the world. ||3||

ਤੁਮ ਦਾਤੇ ਹਮ ਸਦਾ ਭਿਖਾਰੀ ॥ ਦੇਉ ਜਬਾਬੁ ਹੋਇ ਬਜਗਾਰੀ ॥ ਦਾਸੁ ਕਬੀਰੁ ਤੇਰੀ ਪਨਹ ਸਮਾਨਾਂ ॥ ਭਿਸਤੁ ਨਜੀਕਿ ਰਾਖੁ ਰਹਮਾਨਾ ॥੪॥੭॥੧੫॥

(O my Lord! I have no need for any Paradise or Heaven) You are my Great Giver, I am forever a beggar at Your Door (whatever You are giving me that is fine). If I were to deny You, then I would be a wretched sinner. Slave Kabeer has entered Your Shelter. O Merciful Lord Waheguru! Keep me near You Feet – that is heaven for me. ||4||7||15||

Baba Nand Singh jee used to say in his Ardaas:

ਨਾ ਭੁਲਾ, ਨਾ ਭੁਲਾਈ ||

ਨਾ ਵਿਸਰਾ, ਨਾ ਵਿਸਾਰੀ ||

"My I not forget, may you not forget me.

My I not separate from you, may you not separate from me."

In morning people usually say:

ਚਾਰ ਪਿਹਰ ਰਾਤ ਦੇ ਸੁਖ ਨਾਲ ਬਤੀਤ ਹੋਇ ਹਨ, ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰ ਕੇ ਚਾਰ ਪਿਹਰ ਦਿਨ ਆਪ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਹੁਕਮ ਮੰਨਦਿਆ ਸੁਖ ਨਾਦੇ ਲ ਬਤੀਤ ਹੋਵੈ |

"The four Pehars (12 hours) of night have passed with peace, with your blessings may the four Pehars (12 hours) of day pass with peace and obeying your Hukam."

In the evening people usually say:

ਚਾਰ ਪਿਹਰ ਦਿਨ ਦੇ ਸੁਖ ਨਾਲ ਬਤੀਤ ਹੋਇ ਹਨ, ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰ ਕੇ ਚਾਰ ਪਿਹਰ ਰਾਤ ਆਪ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਹੁਕਮ ਮੰਨਦਿਆ ਸੁਖ ਨਾਦੇ ਲ ਬਤੀਤ ਹੋਵੈ |

"The four Pehars (12 hours) of day have passed with peace, with your blessings may the four Pehars (12 hours) of night pass with peace and obeying your Hukam."

Guru Pyaari'o,

According to what elder Gursikhs have said, one should not recite Paatth from a Pothi/Gutka with shoes on (with obvious reasons of Satkaar). Other than you can wear shoes and recite Gurbani orally anywhere whether it be in the car, walking, waiting for a bus, or having a shower etc. Elder Gursikhs give advice of japping Mool Mantar or Waheguru when having the shower.

In regards to the toilet, I "personally" don't think reciting a Bani, for example Japji Sahib, whilst on the toilet is the best place to be reciting Bani. If you need to go to the toilet then go, but waiting 2 minute and then continuing reciting a Bani may be better (for concentration, focus and mind set). But having said that we should be aiming to be Japping Naam and keeping Waheguru in our "chit" (consciousness) 24/7 (naturally it is hard thing, but that is the aim of every Gursikh). So in short, my "personal" vichaar is that we should try and do Simran all times and everywhere, however, when reciting a particular Bani, I would give it some thought where I am reciting it and whether my mind and focus is going into the Bani (to some extent or another). i.e. Reciting Japji Sahib whilst your family is watching tele in the same small room with people talking on top of that, is perhaps not the best place to be reciting a Bani because Bani usually takes more concentration than Simran (according to my little understanding), similarly whilst sitting on the loo I would not recite a Bani.

Like one Veer jee said, Waheguru is PURE. Waheguru is WITHIN US. No place is impure or pure for Waheguru. These are physical boundaries.

Bhul Chuk Maaf Karnee.

Vaheguru ji ka khalsa vaheguru ji ki fateh

pwlw kkru vrP vrsY gurisKu gur dyKx jweI ]27]

paalaa kakar varaf varasai gurasikh gur dhaekhan jaaee ||27||

Even in the cold, the frost and the snow, the GurSikh still goes out to see his Guru. ||27||

:vaheguru:

Waheguru.