1-1 Manglacharan

The powerful being that remains in one state and is the controller and supporter of the world; that remains forever in one state; that being, of when, is understood, one is freed from the bondage of death.  That being’s name is Karta Purakh, Akaal; the cause of all actions and effects; the timeless one.  That being is the Brahm Supreme, in whose command the land remains stable; sun, fire, death and wind remain steadfast in their nature.  I wish to have that Brahm Supreme residing in my heart.  The secret of this Brahm cannot be understood with knowledge; but meeting the Brahm removes all doubts.  Doing actions, fulfilling the Dharam and performing bhakti; the fruit is to be one with the being that continuously exists everywhere.  Just as one mistakenly sees a snake instead of a rope, so is the world seen mistakenly instead of the Brahm.  By discarding the ego, the Brahm is seen.  The knowledge of the Brahm’s Anaad (sound created without friction) is the sun that destroys the ignorance.  Sat (truth- unending existence), Chetan (consciousness), Anand (bliss), Naam (name) and Roop (form) are the five characteristics of existence.  The Saint immerses in the three (Sat, Chetan, Anand) and rejects the two (Naam, Roop). 

Kavi Santokh Singh ji now pays his respect to the power of the Brahm from which art, poetry, music and knowledge are generated.

There is a mark of sandalwood on her forehead which is unmatched for the moon.  The lotus flower does not compare to her face.  The Devatas (Powers of the elements and senses) sing her glories and bow to her.  The one that spreads joy in the world, I bow to thee.

The hurdles that come into the way of poets are as big as waves in the ocean, you are the boat that sails the poet sailor across.  You protect the reputation of the poets.  You give peace to all who seek your protection.  Your walk is carefree like the elephant’s walk.  You hold a lotus flower in your hand and are beautiful like Ratti (the wife of Kamadeva – the Devata of Love).  Your eyes are beautiful like the eyes of a deer.  You remain forever youthful and never age.  So is the power of Akaal Purakh’s artfulness.

Kavi Santokh Singh ji now pays respects to all the Gurus and asks for their help.

To save the Kaliyuga, Guru Nanak Dev ji had come to earth.  The holy words that came from the mouth of Guru Nanak Dev ji blessed the people in Kaliyuga.  The birds of the vices were scolded and destroyed by Guru Nanak’s word.  The ones who do not know the Kartar, Guru Nanak came to bless them too.  Guru Nanak gave them Kirtan; to fill devotion and faith within the hearts of the atheists.  Guru Nanak Dev ji washed the sins of the people of Kaliyuga by deconstructing false rituals.  He arose like the sun in the darkness.  Guru Nanak Dev ji is the most powerful and saves his servants; like a boat sails the travellers across the ocean.

Listening to the words of Guru Angad Dev ji, all hurdles are destroyed.  All endeavours are successful, for whose hearts, in which Guru Angad Dev ji resides.  They are happy and prosperous.  The son of Pheroo is independent and free; is the master of the universe and most powerful.  His eyes are like the lotus.  Remembering Guru Angad Dev ji, one’s vices are destroyed.  As the sun destroys darkness; Guru Angad Dev ji destroys ignorance, with his knowledge.  Guru Angad Dev ji grants mukti and the root of bliss.  Guru Angad Dev ji is beautiful like the moon.  I bow to you, Oh Lord Guru Angad Dev ji.

The Devatas look towards Guru Amar Das ji for support.  They fight the demons with the blessings of Guru Amar Das ji.  Shiv ji meditates upon Guru Amar Das ji everyday.  Rishis and Munis meditate upon Guru Amar Das ji to achieve the state of Brahamgyaan.  Guru Amar Das ji preached Bhakti upon this earth.  Guru Amar Das ji dwells in every atom.  The servants, who come for his protection, they reach Brahamgyaan easily and their pain is destroyed.  Guru Amar Das ji showed his Sikhs the door to Mukti by reciting the name of Akaal Purakh.  Remembering Guru Amar Das ji: grants all powers and frees one from the cycle of birth and death.  Victory to Sri Guru Amar!

Guru Ram Das ji’s name destroys all hurdles.  Within the hearts of the Sikhs, Guru Ram Das ji illuminates the sun of Aatamgyaan.  Guru Ram Das ji makes Akaal Purakh dwell within the hearts of his Sikhs.  The power destroys vices.  Brahma meditates on Guru Ram Das ji and Shiv ji sings the glories of Guru Ram Das ji.  Guru Ram Das ji was born in the house of Sooraj Bans, in the clans of the Sodhis.  Just as the SoorajBansi Ram killed Raavan, with the army of the monkeys.  In the same family Guru Ram Das ji came to the house of Hardas ji Sodhi.  The deer of attachment was devoured by Guru Ram Das ji, the lion.

Guru Arjan Dev ji listens to the pleas of his Sikhs and grants them accordingly.  Arjan, the Pandav, the archer, killed many enemies with his arrows but Guru Arjan Dev ji’s arrows killed greater demons such as attachment.  Arjan the Pandav could not kill the attachment demon.  Guru Arjan Dev ji’s words are sharp arrows.  Santokh Singh sings the glories of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Wherever one travels to the world, the glories of Guru Arjan Dev ji are sung.  As the Arjan tree is lush and is used to cure many ailments, Guru Arjan Dev ji is a great medicine for many illnesses.  If enemies come and grab Guru Arjan’s feet, they will be saved as well.  The were freed from the cycle of birth and death.  Krishan was tied to a yumlarjan tree by his mother, which he broke, saving the souls trapped in it; Guru Arjan Dev ji’s enemies were ripped in half just as so.  The height of Guru Arjan Dev ji’s power cannot be measured.  Such is the glory of Guru Arjan Dev ji.

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji is the warrior that picked up weapons and faced the emperor of Delhi.  You are a lion that removed the pain of the Devatas.  When the demons took the Vedas and the earth and hid them in the ocean, Vishnu took the incarnation of the Varaah and brought the earth back.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, you are the saviour of the earth.  You are handsome: whoever thinks of your face, that person receives Brahmgyaan and becomes wise.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji keeps a spear in his hand.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji is a lover of the battlefield.  You fought 4 battles and killed 7,000 in Amritsar, 14,000 in Srihargovindpur, 34,000 in Phoolmaraaj, and 78,000 in Kartarpur.  The slanderers were in pain.  You are a brave warrior.  Hargobind ji, you are sun that removes the darkness from sinners.

Guru Har Rai Sahib ji, your sight destroys all worries.  Vices run far away from your sight.  Guru ji, you help your Sikhs cross the world ocean by the bridge of Kirtan.  You scolded the sinners and trained the Sikhs in war.  You came into the world like the King of the day: the sun.  The stars vanished in front of the sun of your wisdom.  The locks of our hearts were opened by the key of your sermons.  Sri Guru Har Rai ji, this is how you help your Sikhs.

Sri Satguru Har Krishan Sahib ji, you are complete and all-powerful.  The fire of your knowledge burnt the sins.  You are Akaal Purakh.  Your servant is a dark-toned person who spoke words of the Geeta.  You are the cloud that waters the fields.

Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji you are omnipresent, where anyone remembers you.  You are the ocean of peace and pleasure.  The Devatas bow to your feet.  You give your Sikhs the delicious food of knowledge.  The sunrays of the vices are quenched by your cloud of knowledge.  A Sikh who does not know about the history and sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji and does not know that Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji is Akaal Purakh, their life is not worthy.  Whoever remembers the name of Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji, they do not fear the messengers of death.

Guru Gobind Singh ji, you protect your Sikhs and break their bondages to give them Nirvana.  Your hand has a heavy bow and your arms are like the trunks of an elephant.  You are the glory of your Sikhs and the punisher of the sinners.  There is always an arrow in your hand.  You are an expert horse rider.  You saved the Hindus and Hindustan.  You are a strong warrior with many weapons and chainmail. 

Guru Gobind Singh ji makes his servants strong, like solid pillars: to withstand any storm.  If the storm is too powerful, then Guru ji comes himself, and stands in the way.  If the boat of his servants faces high tidal waves, Guru Gobind Singh ji becomes the boat driver.  Santokh Singh Kavi writes the glories of Guru Gobind Singh ji: you are stable like the ocean.  The ocean is, though, without love.  You are pure love.  You are the giver of kingdom and crown; you increase happiness; you protect your servants and assist the work of the poets and writers.

The ten incarnations of the Satguru are the same, one light.  Seeing the ignorance and tyranny in the world, you took on powerful and beautiful incarnations and gave the world your knowledge.  Many listened to your words and became Sikhs.  You made the Sikhs worry-free in this world and in the next.  You made the poor into Sardar Kings.  I bow to the lotus feet of the Ten Gurus with all my heart and with full honesty and sincerity. 

Ganesh, Shiv remove the obstacles; Brahma and others are known to give happiness; Brihaspati and others are known to give wisdom;  Baalmeek and others were great poets; Vashisht is filled with knowledge; Inder gives royalty; Agust is the tapasvi; Vyaas understands the Vedas; Yudhistra is the soul of Dharam (duty and truth);  Arjan is the beloved of Krishan; Ramchandra is steadfast in duty; Narsingh is the beloved of Prahalad; Krishan understands the pleasures of life and is a great artist; Sri Baaman cheated the demons; Dashrath lived up to his words; Janaka was in one state when it came to Jog and pleasures in life; He saw pain and pleasure as one; Gorakh was the Sidh; Kabeer and all of the Bhagats; Sikhs like Baba Buddha ji in the past, present and future.  I bow to all of these great beings and ask them to bless me so I may write the glories of Guru ji.  Guru ji, that is radiant like the sun, and cooling like the moon.

Love Bhagats like Naarad; Sarasvati the sweet speaker; Shaishnaag the clever; Hanuman the loyal servant bhagat; I bow to all of you, putting my head to the ground.  I ask you to remove all the hurdles in my way.

The glory of the Guru is vast: like the ocean, and the whole world knows this.  I am trying to cross this ocean on a raft made of grass.  This is how I feel, writing the glory of the Guru.  It is, as a short person is trying to jump for the fruit hanging on top of a tall tree.  Although, people maybe laughing at my effort, I still pursue this effort to write the history of the Guru with great enthusiasm. 

The glory of the Guru is like a ruby on top of a great mountain.  The mountain of Sikhi.  My effort can be compared to a disabled person trying to climb that mountain.  I wish to use my effort to collect the gems of the Guru’s history and make a beautiful garland out of them, for everyone else to enjoy.  If I serve the feet of the Guru, day and night, I may be able to climb the mountain of Sikhi, riding the horse of the Guru’s blessings.  I have faith: that my Granth will be completed, by me.  The Satguru that burnt the kingdom of the Mughals and turned it into ash, will surely assist me and remove my obstacles. 

Sri Nanak planted the seed of Sikhi into the field of the world.  The nine Gurus watered this plant and nurtured it.  The plant had the flower: which was the Simran of the True name, Satnam.  This flower bore the fruit of Brahmgyaan.  Guru Kalgidhar ji protected and nurtured this fruit by fighting battles. 

To make this plant solid and strong, the Satguru gave rise to the Khalsa.  The Khalsa is the Kalapbrish tree (tree that grants wishes).  The Khalsa came from the root of radiance and tapp, done by the Satguru.  The Sangat was at ease from the shade of the Khalsa in both worlds.  The Kalapbrish Khalsa supported the entire plant of Sikhi.  The Khalsa is complete, Sikhi is the treasure of the entire universe.  The Satguru created the Khalsa Panth, the complete, for support.  I bow to the Satguru and throw my worries away and begin writing this Granth.

I bow to the feet of Sri Kalgidhar, over and over again, who made the weak into strong and religious warriors: to fight off the tyrants that gave pain to the public and religion.

Prabhu incarnated into Narsingh to protect Prahalad.  Ramchandra became Narsingh to kill Bali and protect Sugriva.  He killed Ravan in the battlefield.  Just as the deer runs away in fear from a lion, everyone ran away from Krishan.  He killed Kans and scolded the Kauravs.  Guru Gobind Singh ji was a powerful Avatar that pulled the root of the Mughals. 

Guru Gobind Singh ji is filled with the warrior spirit and gives hope to his servants.  He destroys the pain and worldly bonds of his servants.  He is the root of happiness and is on the side of his servants.  He kills the sinners and tyrants.  Sikhs that read Bani with faith and devotion: Guru Gobind Singh ji destroys their pains and sins.  He happily solves all their problems.  He is full of love.  He has a unique and pure personality.  This is how the son of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji is.

The history of the Guru instills the mind; it gives the wealth of the true Name, everyday; it grants the devotion to Kirtan; listening to Kirtan, the ego is destroyed; it makes the heart pure and makes the heart deserving to be placed at the Guru’s feet; it cures all illnesses and is a great medicine.  The history of the Guru is the cream of all creams, and is never old.  The jewellery of Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji’s virtues are put together in this history.

The master of the universe, Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji created the Khalsa plant.  The warrior spirit came through this plant and gave rise to the battle of righteousness.  The battle was for the right to freedom.  Amrit made this plant grow faster.  This plant has the power of Akaal Purakh.  Penance was its flower.  The Khalsa came as the death for the sinners and tyrants. 

The Khalsa Lion scared away the tyrant rulers: Pashtuns, Kabul, Afghanis, Rajputs, the corrupt Nawabs, Balochis and Mughals. 

Satguru ji created the Khalsa which is the supreme, and provides peace to all.  Everyone sees the Khalsa as the most beautiful, as it protects everyone’s rights and makes sure: all are treated equally.  The Khalsa never touches tobacco.  The Khalsa is the idol of the Satguru: whose radiance is illuminating in the world.  I bow to the Khalsa and begin to write the Sri Gur Pratap Sooraj Granth.

1-2 The History of Writing the Sooraj Granth

Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji met a very intelligent child.  The child received Brahamgyaan by the blessing of Guru ji, immediately.  Listening to the intelligent child’s words, Guru Nanak Dev ji said: “child, you are a young child but you speak like a mature elderly person.”  As Guru ji said those words, the child’s parents (Bhai Soogha Randhawa and his wife) came looking for their child.  They asked around: “our child has come here to the home of the Saint.  We wish to see him.”  The Sikhs said: “he is sitting inside with Guru Nanak Dev ji.”  When Bhai Soogha Randhawa and his wife went inside to see him, they saw that their child had gone old.  Their child was now “Bhudda,” a mature and elderly person.  They were surprised to see that their child had the walk, talk, appearance and personality of an elderly person.  They wished to take their child home but the child did not want to leave.  The parents then talked amongst themselves: “how has our son become old?  He is old and of no use to us now.  His body is now weak and frail.”  The parents asked many times but the Buddha-child refused.  The parents then said: “ok, let’s leave him here.  His body has gone old.”  The parents went back to their home without their child.  From that point onwards, his name was then “Bhudda.” 

Baba Bhudda was regarded with great reverence within the house of the Guru.  He became a ship that helped many cross this world ocean to Sach Khand.  He had great patience and was able to harness his powers and be without ego.  There was none other like him.  After Sri Nanak ji, he served the feet of Sri Angad ji.  He was the Vizier of the Guru’s house.  He served Guru Angad Dev ji for 12 years and then Guru Amar Das ji for 22 years.  He was then close to Satguru Ram Das ji for 7 years.  For 25 years he stayed with Guru Arjan Dev ji and was the first Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib.  Guru Arjan Dev ji gave him the title of “Bhai Sahib.”  Baba Bhudda Sahib ji’s words were powerful and became true as soon as they were spoken.  Sri Guru Har Gobind ji’s birth occurred due to the words of Baba Bhudda.  Baba Bhudda ji served six Gurus and spread the knowledge of Sikhi.  He blessed many people and gave them the sermon of Satnam Sri Vahiguru.  Guru Nanak Dev ji received the Guruship from Akaal Purakh.  After Guru Nanak Dev ji, the ceremony of transferring the Guruship was performed by Baba Bhudda ji.  Baba Bhudda would place the tilak mark upon the forehead of the next Guru.  He anointed the tilak to Guru Angad Dev ji, Guru Amar Das ji, Guru Ram Das ji, Guru Arjan Dev ji, and Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  After Baba Bhudda ji, the ceremony was carried on by his son, Bhai Bhana ji.  Bhai Bhana ji anointed the tilak to Guru Har Rai Sahib ji.  The lineage of Baba Bhudda stayed with the Guru Ghuddi.  All of the children in the lineage were Brahmgyaanis and had the knowledge of past, present and future.  These saints were well-known in the world.  Satguru ji’s message is a great ocean and Baba Bhudda ji’s family is like jewels from this ocean.  The words of the family of Baba Bhudda ji are like the philosopher’s stone that would turn people’s minds into gold.  Illiterates become knowledgeable by Bhai Bhudda ji.  The Guru’s all respected Baba Bhudda ji, and therefore there is none other like Baba Bhudda. 

Baba Bhudda ji is the fish of knowledge that was in bliss; in the ocean of the Guru’s Bani.  He served the Guru, day and night; as did his future generations.  They had no other wish in life, but to serve the Guru.  Baba Buddha ji cut grass for the Guru’s horses and did not feel embarrassed in doing so.  He worked on the farms and was happy wherever Guru ji kept him.  This was Bhai Buddha Sahib ji: whose glory cannot be described.  Whatever blessing or curse came from his mouth, they are unchangeable.  The Gurus listened to Baba Bhudda ji as well.  The history of Baba Bhudda ji’s family will come ahead.  Baba Bhudda ji was very powerful and had the ability to do whatever he wished to do.  He faced many hurdles and painful times but he did not say anything to anyone.  He saw pain and pleasure as the same.  He had great patience.  His mind did not wander: just as the mountain does not move by the wind.

Baba Bhudda ji’s family is a great Sarovar in which Ram Koer ji was born as a lotus within that Sarovar.  Ram Koer ji spent his whole life in the service of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  His attention was always focused on the Guru’s feet just as the bee hovers close to the flowers.  He never left the Guru’s side.  After Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji, Bhai Ram Koer ji anointed the tilak to Guru Gobind Singh ji.  He came with his family to anoint the Guru and brought a horse, Kalgi and a Talwar.  Guru Gobind Singh ji had Bhai Ram Koer ji tie the Kalgi on his Dastaar.  The Talwar that Guru Gobind Singh ji donned on the day of the Guruship ceremony, was brought by Bhai Ram Koer ji.  The Lion Guru took that Talwar and put it by his side.  This family stayed with the Gurus, all ten of them.  They never doubted anything Guru ji said.  The family preached Sikhi throughout the world.  Thousands and millions were blessed by their family.  Just as ministers are seated in a great King’s court; and their lineage takes their position after them, so did Baba Bhudda’s lineage continue to fulfill the duty of serving the Gurus, in the Guru’s house.  They spread Sikhi.  They were treasures of virtues.  Whoever followed them, also become full of virtues. 

When Guru Gobind Singh ji left for Sach Khand and gave rise to the Khalsa, and gave the Khalsa the Kingship, the Bodh tree of the Mughals was pulled from its roots.  The Hindu religion was saved in this world.  Bhai Ram Koer ji still existed after Guru ji left.  Guru ji commanded Ram Koer ji to go back to Punjab from Burhanpur.  Bhai Ram Koer ji said to Guru ji: “Guru ji, I do not eat food unless I see you everyday.”  Guru ji said to Bhai Ram Koer ji: “Bhai ji, go hunting everyday.  You will see me hunting by your side when you go.”  Bhai Ram Koer ji then came back to Punjab and went hunting everyday before eating.  He resided in his village of Jhanda-Ramdas after Guru ji’s command.  He spent the rest of his days there.  After Guru ji left for Sach Khand, some Singhs came to live with Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Sahib Singh Likhaari, the wise, was one of those Singhs.  They were the Hazoori Singhs of Guru Gobind Singh ji (in the presence of the Guru).  They wanted to hear the history of the Guru from Ram Koer ji and wanted to see Guru ji while hunting.  Bhai Ram Koer ji said: “you will not be able to see Guru ji while I go hunting but you will see him while I tell you his history.”  As Bhai Ram Koer ji spoke, Bhai Sahib Singh Likhaari ji wrote it all down.  He heard the history of all ten Gurus and his heart became filled with love.  The writings of Bhai Sahib Singh ji were kept at Bhai Ram Koer ji’s home.  Bhai Ram Koer ji’s daughter-in-law was Bibi Pardhaan Kaur, the princess of Patiala.  Bibi Pardhaan Kaur gave the writings of Bhai Sahib Singh ji to Kavi Santokh Singh ji. 

Bhai Ram Koer ji’s name after taking Amrit was Sri Gurbaksh Singh ji.  All of the Singhs requested him to say the history of all the ten Gurus so the Sikh Sangat can hear the history of the amazing Gurus.  The Amrit came from his mouth and the Sikhs drank it.  Bhai Ram Koer ji then spoke the history of the Gurus. 

As Kavi Santokh Singh ji used to do the Katha of the Guru’s history at the Gurduara of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji in Kaithal, the Sangat, including Maharaja Uday Singh of Kaithal, requested Kavi Santokh Singh ji to tell them the history of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  They wanted to know how powerful Bhai Ram Koer ji was and how he stayed close to Guru Gobind Singh ji; and how their name came to be Gurbaksh Singh and Ram Koer ji.  Then they wanted to hear the history of the nine Gurus.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji will state the history of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Listen to the history of Bhai Ram Koer ji, oh readers and listeners; for listening to his history will fulfill your heart’s desires.  Your accumulated sins will wash away and your mind will become pure.  You will be in peace and your focus will be immersed into the Simran of Satnam.

1-3 Bhai Ram Koer ji

Like placing a gooseberry on the palm (an expression used to state the obvious), so was the way that Baba Bhudda ji was drenched in Brahmgyaan.  I bow to the feet of Baba Bhudda ji.  Baba Bhudda ji is the apex of Gursikhi.  Just as the ocean is the ultimate reservoir for water; the sun is the ultimate gathering of fire; the earth is the ultimate example for land and forgiveness (the earth is known to be the most forgiving as it is scratched, dug and pulled but does not say anything); wind as the apex of speed; Baba Bhudda is the supreme Sikh.  Vishnu Prabhoo is the most beautiful, patient, strong-willed and the greatest warrior.  The moon is the most beautiful and attractive; the greatest castle is the Lanka; Shaishnaag is the best Naga; Vasuki (snake around Shiva’s neck) is the best snake; to let go of one’s ego is the ultimate sacrifice; Ganesh is the best scribe; Shivji, the five-faced, is the highest Jogi; Kartik, the six-faced, is the ultimate general; Brahma is the greatest creator; Baba Bhudda ji is the greatest Sikh and the treasure of virtues.  Baba Bhudda ji’s glory cannot be described.  He was free from all bondages, while in his human form.

Baba Bhudda ji’s son was Bhai Bhana ji.  Bhai Bhana ji understood the Guru’s will.  He was just like his father, a full Brahamgyaani.  He won his desires, anger, attachment, greed and ego.  Bhai Bhana ji’s son was Bhai Shravan ji.  Bhai Shravan ji heard the glory of the Gurus with his ears.  He took on the weight of Sikhi, and was admired by the world.  In his house was born Bhai Jalal ji.  He was coloured with the red colour (signifying love) of Sikhi.  He preached Sikhi far and wide.  Whoever met him achieved mukti (released from all bondages, Brahmgyaan).  Bhai Jalal’s son was Bhai Jhanda.  Bhai Jhanda’s glory flew in the world proudly like a tall, strong and proud flag.  He was in a still state of mind.  He did not see duality.  He only saw “the One” in all of creation, in all the universe.  His son was Bhai Gurditta ji.  He understood the path of Gursikhi well.  During is end-time, he immersed into the One light.  He was a Brahmgyaani, who served the Guru and left his body near Delhi.  Ram Koer ji was the son of Bhai Gurditta.  Bhai Ram Koer ji was a Brahmgyaani within his humanly body.  He was 3 years younger than Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Just as Brahma said nayt, nayt, nayt (declaring the never-ending glory of Akaal Purakh), that Akaal Purakh, resided inside the heart of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  He was continually engrossed in the light of Akaal Purakh.  He was in the highest state of Brahmgyaan, the turiyavastha, the seventh state of knowledge, the Nirvana state, where the soul and Akaal Purakh are one in the same and always connected.  The state, other than the Guru’s state, was the state of Baba Ram Koer ji.  Just as the Vedas speak about a baby-like state of no ego, no insult, and the world is not known to exist; that is how Bhai Ram Koer ji was.

Kavi Santokh Singh ji will now state some history of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Maharaja Ala Singh’s daughter was Bhai Ram Koer ji’s daughter-in-law.  She provided the history of Bhai Ram Koer ji and the Gurus.  The Guru’s history was spoken by Bhai Ram Koer ji and written by Bhai Sahib Singh Likhaari ji.  Bhai Ram Koer ji had a solid and thick body.  All of his body parts were bulky and solid. 

Whatever came out of Bhai Ram Koer ji’s mouth, would become true, immediately.  One day, a farmer held a Langar at his home to mark the death anniversary of a relative.  The farmer first took a plate of kheer, sugar and ghee to the house of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Bhai Ram Koer ji ate the food with great pleasure.  After drinking cold water, he asked the farmer: “you brought very delicious food.  What was the reason that you brought this food for me?”  The famer spoke with his hands folded: “a relative had died and we have held a Langar.  I brought this plate of kheer, sugar and ghee for you first.”  Hearing the farmer’s words, Ram Koer ji was very happy and responded: “this food was really good.  There should be a death in the village everyday so that I may have such delicious food, everyday.”  As Ram Koer ji’s words were said, from that day, one person would die everyday in that village.  Ram Koer ji was always in a still and carefree state.  A lot of people went to the abode of Yama during that difficult time.  There was a panic in the village and the villagers wondered what was their fault for these tragedies.  The farmer told everyone what had happened and that Bhai Ram Koer ji made a statement from his mouth.  “For this reason, we are seeing one person die everyday.  It was the words of Bhai Ram Koer ji,” said the farmer.  The villagers then made gourmet delicacies and thought of a way to ask Bhai Ram Koer ji to reverse the curse.  They made the food with love and took it to where Bhai Ram Koer ji was sitting.  They placed the food in front of him with great respect.  The villagers looked on, standing with their hands folded as Bhai Ram Koer ji ate the food.  Bhai Ram Koer ji then asked them: “for what reason have you brought me this delicious food?”  The other farmers then answered: “there is a wedding in the village.  We came to seek your blessings for a peaceful life.”  Bhai Ram Koer ji was really happy and said: “this food is delicious.  There will be a wedding everyday in this village.  The population will grow in this village.”  Everyone then bowed their heads.  There was a wedding in the village everyday.  His words were like Amrit in their ears.  That is how powerful Baba Ram Koer ji was.  The words would come to life immediately, as they were spoken.

Bhai Ram Koer ji had a servant named Rama that would stay with him at all times.  A lot of Sangat would come to visit Ram Koer ji, bringing many gifts.  The village of Baba Bhudda ji, Ramdaspur, was known throughout the land.  Many generations of his lived in that village.  The Sangat would bring a lot of money and had their many wishes fulfilled.  They would recite the name of the Guru as they would come.  If people would ask Bhai Sahib ji about their work, sometimes he would respond.  Otherwise, his attention was always focused on Akaal Purakh.  He would remain immersed in to the ocean of Akaal Purakh, day and night.  When the servants would bring him a plate of food, he would eat it.  He would eat and say to Rama, his servant: “oh Rama, where were you?  You need to let me know how much I should eat.  Am I full or am I not?”  Rama would then put his hand on his belly and check how high it had gotten.  He would answer: “yes my Lord.  Your belly is at the point where it was yesterday so you are now full.”  He would then drink water and wash his hands.  The Parmhans (swan) Brahmgyaanis are like this.  Sometimes they are aware of their bodies and sometimes they are not.  They only speak when they need to.  The servants would dress him.  Bhai Sahib ji would remain in the Nirvana state.  His eyebrows were thick and his eyelids were long.  He would keep his eyes closed unless called upon to open them.  The servants looked after the house and the finances. 

1-4 Bhai Ram Koer ji part 2

Bhai Ram Koer ji always stayed in the state of Brahmgyaan.  He was always in an unmovable state.  Sometimes he would pay attention to the world, otherwise his focus was always in the Dasvan Duaar (Tenth door).  The servants would stay with him at all times.  They would run the Langar and carry out the Divans.

There was a time when the Mughals were hunting Sikhs from village to village.  Bhai Ram Koer ji’s Langar would run continuously.  The Mughal’s attempted to stop the Langar as the Sikhs on the run would come eat from Ramdaspur Village.  The army of the Mughals arrived in Ramdaspur.  They were looting Sikhs as they came.  They looted the place of Baba Bhudda ji.  They took the clothes, jewellery, horses, pots, goats, blankets, and food.  The servants attempted to stop them: “why are you doing this?  This is the house of a saint and many poor people come here to eat.”  The army did not listen and took everything.  They took all the relics and valuable items.  Bhai Ram Koer ji was sitting in his place.  The servants requested Bhai Ram Koer ji: “Maharaj, the army is here to loot everything.”  Bhai Ram Koer ji was able to see everything but was totally disassociated with the world and didn’t say anything.  The servants folded their hands and continued their request.  Many thousands of Rupees were looted.  There was nothing left in the house. 

The army went back to Lahore.  The Sooba (Governor) of Lahore found out that his army had looted Baba Bhudda’s place.  The Sooba was well aware of the power of Bhai Ram Koer ji.  He realised that his army and done a very bad thing.  He was afraid of Bhai Sahib’s curse.  He knew that Bhai Ram Koer ji always lived above pain, pleasure, profit and loss.  He was a true Fakir.  The Sooba mounted his horse and came to Ramdaspur with a few soldiers, immediately.  He was worried and kept pacing between his men.  He was worried that Bhai Ram Koer ji would curse him.  The Sooba got off his horse and took his shoes off.  He entered Bhai Ram Koer ji’s house.  Bhai Ram Koer ji was sitting in his room in meditation.  The Sooba came and folded his hands.  He bowed to his feet and touched them.  He took the dirt from his feet and put it to his forehead.  He was terrified of being cursed.  He said to Bhai Ram Koer ji: “please do not curse us.”  He stood up with great fear in his heart.  Bhai Ram Koer ji stayed in his state and did not say anything to him.  This was the Sooba of Punjab, who was feared and respected by all of Punjab.  Bhai Sahib had his eyes half closed, half open.  Bhai Sahib was in the state of Nirvana.  It had been about 20 minutes that the Sooba stood there.  The Sooba was worried that Bhai Sahib was not talking.  He figured that he should call out to him.  He folded his hands and said with humility: “Maharaj, please forgive me.  I had no idea my men looted your home.  They have done a foolish act.  As soon as I found out, I came right away.  I am your servant.  These soldiers do not know the power of saints.  They did not think before they acted.  All these fools came and did not consider good or bad.  They looted your home and took everything.  I will punish all of my men that came here.  Please tell me what has been looted, all the animals, cows, goats, blankets, pots and pans.  From the smallest to the biggest; please prepare a list.  I will return everything.  I will make sure everything is returned.  I wish to be forgiven by you.  Please forgive all of us.”  The Sooba repeated his request many times out loud.  Bhai Ram Koer ji raised his face a little and opened his eyes.  He looked up. The Sooba was standing and the soldiers were standing outside of the house.  There were horses and elephants outside.  Ram Koer ji saw the soldiers standing with their weapons.  He looked at the Sooba and said: “nothing of ours has been lost.  What are you saying?”  Bhai Ram Koer ji closed his eyes again.  The Khan of Lahore, the ruler of Lahore said: “the army of Lahore came and looted everything in your house, Bhai Sahib ji.  All of your stuff has been looted.  I’m asking: what was looted?  Please tell me what was lost.  I will return all the stuff.  My soldiers erred and are fools.”  When the Khan repeated himself out loud two or three times, his soldiers standing outside were holding hawks, Bhai Ram Koer ji looked towards the hawks.  Bhai Ram Koer ji said: “I have hawks that go with me when I go hunting.  There were silk ropes that were tied the to my hawks, I have lost those ropes.  I believe those ropes and the bird cages of my hawks have been stolen.  Return those to me, if your soldiers will listen to you.  I need those ropes to go hunting.  Tell your soldiers to return those ropes.”  The Sooba heard Bhai Sahib ji.  He was surprised and happy as well.  He was amazed at the level of Brahmgyaan Bhai Sahib ji was at.  He had no worry about the stuff that was looted.  All he saw was that the ropes of his hawks were gone.  “He doesn’t care about the loss his home had suffered.  His heart had no negative thoughts.  Whatever is not in front of his eyes, he doesn’t care.  He has no idea how much has been looted.  He is a very powerful Brahmgyaani.”  The Khan was amazed.  He folded his hands and said: “please bless me by coming to my house in Lahore.  Please stay in my house for a few days.  When it will be your wish, you may return whenever you like.  Please bless my home with your feet stepping in to it.”  Baba Ram Koer ji went along with the Sooba.

Bhai Ram Koer ji was unique.  His horse was very strong.  He was very strong himself.  He was very bulky and strong so the horse had to be strong too.  His horse would not never have any reins or saddles.  He would sit on a bareback horse.  He would sit on a horse with both legs to one side.  Bhai Sahib ji jumped on to his horse and sat on top of it.  The soldiers were very surprised to see this.  The horse looked like a stubborn one.  There was no reins or saddle.  They saw that he sat with both legs to one side of the horse.  Rama, the servant of Bhai Ram Koer ji went along.  The Sooba asked Rama: “how is Baba ji sitting on the horse?  I hope he doesn’t fall and break a bone.  There are no reins in the horse’s mouth.  The horse is very strong and clever.”  Rama then said to the Khan: “this is how Bhai Sahib mounts his horse everyday.  He does not need reins or saddles.  This is how he does things.  You need not to worry about him.  The horse runs without reins.  He goes hunting in this manner as well.  Sometimes his legs are on either side of the horse but usually his legs are on the same side.”  The Khan was amazed at seeing this.  He was in doubt, though. 

Bhai Sahib came to Lahore in this way and went inside the home of the Sooba.  The Sooba served Bhai Ram Koer ji in many ways.  He returned all of the stuff that was looted from his home.  The sevadaars accounted for all the looted things.  The Sooba investigated what else was looted and made sure he scolded the soldiers that took all the stuff.  The Sooba was very powerful.  He had all the stuff returned to Ramdaspur village.  He punished the soldiers as well.  The Sooba wanted to test Bhai Sahib.  He discussed this with his officers.  The Qaazis advised: “there is a mare in our stable that does not let anyone mount her.  She is very stubborn and does not move.  She lifts her front feet and throws the rider off.  If you whip her, she hurts the rider or does a sudden U-turn.  If she runs with the rider, she does not stop and keeps running.  The mare has all the bad qualities a mare could have.”  The Khan Sooba had the mare decorated and brought to Bhai Sahib.  He placed money in front of Bhai Ram Koer ji and presented the mare and money as an offering.  He folded his hands and said: “please accept this offering.  Please ride this mare and go hunting with her.  This is my wish: that you ride this horse.  Please mount this horse so that we may see this and know that you have accepted our gift.  First tour Lahore and then go back to your village.  You will reach by evening.”  The horse was then given along with clothes and money.  The Sooba had doubtful intentions.  Bhai Sahib ji got up and went towards the horse.  He saw the beautiful saddle.  Bhai Sahib removed the reins and opened the saddle.  He then jumped on top of the horse with both of his legs to one side of the horse.  The mare began to walk slowly and in discipline, at the pace of a cow.  Everyone was shocked.  She walked through the streets of Lahore just by Bhai Sahib ji’s intentions.  She could read Bhai Sahib’s wishes and obeyed wherever he wanted to go, without him showing his intentions.  She ran with Bhai Sahib’s mind.  Everyone saw this and were amazed, for this was the same mare that could not be mounted.  Everyone was amazed and happy to see the glory of the generations of Baba Bhudda Sahib ji.  Bhai Sahib ji toured the city and saw the places and buildings.  The city was well populated with well dressed people.  People stopped on the streets to bow to Bhai Sahib ji.  The Sooba took Bhai Sahib ji to one of his palaces and began to show Bhai Sahib ji his other buildings from the top floor.  He showed him his house and the city from up above. 

Bhai Ram Koer ji then spoke: “Listen Khan, Ramdaspur was looted by your soldiers; and the villagers were beaten up.  You have returned all those looted items.  My village will re-establish itself and the place of Baba Bhudda ji will operate in the same way as it did before.  What will happen to your city and your palaces, higher than mountains, when it will be looted?  Who will give it all back to you?  Who will protect your city?  How will it re-establish itself?”  The Khan heard Bhai Sahib ji and got scared.  He said: “What are you saying Bhai Sahib?  You are cursing me and my city?”  Bhai Sahib ji responded: “I just asked out of the blue.  Why did you take this as a curse?  I was just asking: when this city will be looted, who will save it?  You gave me back all my things, who will return your things to you?”  The Sooba went quiet.  He had regret in his mind.  What he had feared greatly, had just happened.  He was afraid of a Brahmgyaanis words as the aftermath.  (Lahore was looted twice: once by Nadir Shah, killing thousands.  After 10 years from Nadir Shah’s invasion, Ahmed Shah Abdali came and looted Lahore.  As Bhai Ram Koer ji had said the same thing twice, when he asked the Sooba both times).  The Sooba went quiet. 

Bhai Ram Koer ji left the palace, mounted on the new horse and headed for Ramdaspur.  The looted items came, packed on top of carts and buggies.  The army was sent along to help.  The Sooba wanted the soldiers to stay close to Bhai Ram Koer ji, to make sure he does not fall off the new horse.  He also wanted to know if he ever fell or not.  As Ram Koer ji travelled without reins and saddles, the Sooba was amazed.  He now had great faith on Baba ji and decided that it was not a good idea to doubt Saints.  The horse would move with the direction of Bhai Ram Koer ji’s mind’s will.  The horse was connected to Bhai Sahib’s mind.  It would move at the speed that Bhai Sahib ji wanted it to.  Khan’s men that came along kept a keen eye.  Bhai Sahib ji understood that the soldiers had doubt in their minds and decided to quash their doubt.  Bhai Sahib ji rode the horse faster.  The horse rode like the wind.  All you could see was dust flying, not the horse.  The soldiers were then surprised as to how this was happening, riding a bareback horse.  After about 2 miles, Bhai Sahib stopped.  The soldiers saw this and were now filled with faith for Bhai Sahib ji.  Bhai Ram Koer ji entered his home and his glory was prevalent.

1-5 The Foundation of the Gur Pratap Sooraj Granth

Bhai Ram Koer ji used to live with Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Bhai Ram Koer ji dictated the whole history of the Gurus.  The history of the Gurus was contained in the pothis (books) written by Bhai Sahib Singh ji Likhaari. 

Another source of the history was Bhai Mani Singh ji Shaheed.  Bhai Mani Singh Sahib ji was the scribe of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Bhai Mani Singh ji was very intelligent and knowledgeable.  His writings are also used to write this history written by Kavi Santokh Singh ji.  Other Saints had writings as well that were used.  Some history was verbal that were told to Kavi ji by eye witnesses.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji travelled from village to village and bound the history in poetry form in beautiful Chands (poetic measures).  Kavi ji travelled to remote villages where history of the Gurus was found.  Guru ji had visited those places and accounts of their miracles were kept there.  The history of the Gurus was spread out and this was the first Granth which had the collection of the complete history of the Gurus, written by Kavi Santokh Singh ji.  It was like gold mixed in sand.  This is the way Bhai Santokh Singh ji collected the gold.  The reason to write this history was: so Kavi Santokh Singh’s life would be blessed.  He only asked for Sikhi and not money.  He did not desire popularity or glory.  He only wanted to sing the glories of the Gurus.  Just as butter is contained in yoghurt and needs to be churned, Kavi ji churned the history of the Gurus and presented this Granth.  The history was analysed by Kavi ji before writing it.  Just as the Devatas and demons churned the ocean and took out the priceless gems, this is how the glory of the Gurus was churned.  For years to come, The Gursikhs would listen to this history and connect with the Gurus.  Their love and devotion will grow by listening to this history.  The Nanak Prakash Granth was written based on the Janamsakhi of Bhai Bala.  Kavi ji wanted to write the history of the 9 Gurus but did not get the chance to till he came to Kaithal.  Kavi ji was very poor when he wrote the Nanak Prakash Granth.  It was written in the village Boorhia.  When the Sikh Rajas found out about Kavi ji’s endeavour, they took notice and started to help.  The Raja of Patiala, Karam Singh brought him to Patiala.  Kavi ji only stayed there for 2 months.  For some reason it didn’t work out.  Then, the Raja of Kaithal, Raja Uday Singh ji (Bhai Sahib Raja Uday Singh ji) found out.  He was the descendent of Bhai Bhagtoo, born in the house of Mai Bhikha.  Mai Bhikha, although blind at the time, asked Guru Ramdas ji for a blessing: “A madani (churning tool) made of gold, used by my daughter-in-law to churn milk, seeing my grandson drinking the milk.”  Guru Ramdas ji blessed her with eyesight, marriage, children and wealth. The lineage was thus: Bhai Bhagtoo, Bhai Gora, Bhai Dyaal Das, Bhai Deso Singh, Bhai Lal Singh and then Bhai Uday Singh.  Raja Bhai Uday Singh was the ruler of Kaithal and a great Gursikh.  He would also be included in the Amrit Sanchaar ceremonies as a member of the Panj Payaaray.  Maharaja Uday Singh ji came to Patiala and took Kavi ji to Kaithal and gave him a haveli (house) and the Jageer (entitlement of public revenues) of Mothali village.  The Jageer endowed the taxes as income to Kavi ji.  (That haveli has been purchased by Giani Sher Singh ji Ambala in 2022).  The Maharaja requested Kavi ji to write the translations of Japji Sahib.  There was a translation written by Sadhu Anandghan which the Maharaja did not find scholarly.  Kavi ji then wrote his version called Garabganjani.  After Japji Sahib, Kavi ji translated the Valmiki Ramayana from Sanskrit to Gurmukhi.  It was written in Chands so the Khalsa may read the history of Sri Ram Chander ji.  This Granth is kept in the Buddha Dal Toshakhana in Patiala.  This Ramayana became quite famous.  Then Kavi ji wrote a Vedanta Granth, explaining the Upanishads, named Aatam Puraan.  That was translated into Gurmukhi.  The Granth is in a Dehrudhoon Library.  Kavi ji spent many years writing these Granths.  The history of the Gurus at this point was just a dream.  Kavi ji would do Ardaas everyday to find resources on the history of the Gurus.  Then all of a sudden, Kavi ji got a hold of the Granth, dictated by Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Bibi Pardhaan ji was married to Bhai Mor Singh ji (son of Bhai Ram Koer ji).  Pardhaan Kaur was the daughter of Raja Ala Singh of Patiala.  She had become a widow at a young age and returned to Patiala.  She brought the Granths of Bhai Ram Koer ji along.  Raja Uday Singh asked Raja Karam Singh to give the Granths to Kavi Santokh Singh ji. 

Kavi ji and his wife Bibi Ram Kaur ji were visited by a bihangum (celibate) Nihang Singh who came to eat Langar.  He left a bag for Kavi ji.  Kavi ji thought he may return one day to fetch his bag but he did not.  After a few weeks, Kavi ji opened the bag and found that it contained a lot of accounts of the Gurus’ history.  It is believed that the Nihang Singh was a Shaheed Singh, as he was not seen anywhere after the visit.  The history was complete for Kavi j by the will of Guru Sahib ji.  After receiving all the resources, Kavi ji wrote the history.  These were the historical accounts, as per Bhai Ram Koer ji.  Guru Gobind Singh ji was gracious. 

When Guru ji headed towards Nanded, Guru ji ordered Bhai Ram Koer ji to return to his village of Ramdaspur.  Bhai Ram Koer ji did not want to leave Guru ji.  Bhai Ram Koer ji said: “Guru ji, I only eat after seeing you.  How will I eat if I don’t see you?”  Guru ji then replied: “go hunting everyday and I shall come meet you.  Your wish shall be fulfilled.”  Bhai Ram Koer ji then returned to Ramdaspur and Guru ji continued to Hazoor Sahib.  Bhai Ram Koer ji and Guru ji parted ways at Burhanpur.  Bhai Ram Koer ji was attached to Guru ji and did not want to leave.  He went hunting every day.  We would go to the jungle to hunt and visit Guru ji.  Till he was alive, he hunted everyday.  He was 99 when he left the earth.  He saw Kalgidhar ji everyday.  When Guru ji went to Hazoor Sahib, Guru ji left this earth to Sach Khand afterwards.  The Sikhs in Hazoor Sahib were depressed.  Jathedar Santokh Singh ji stayed there but some Singhs came to Bhai Ram Koer ji.  They folded their hands and bowed to Bhai Ram Koer ji.  They were shedding tears as Guru ji had left.  They would constantly talk about Guru Gobind Singh ji.  They were in awe of the incarnation that Akaal Purakh had taken.  They would reminisce: “He killed millions and disabled Delhi.  Panth Khalsa was born by him.  The 4 Sahibzadas achieved martyrdom.  Guru ji kept fighting after his sons were martyred.  He was not affected by attachment; he was the greatest warrior ever.  He killed the sinners.  Guru ji’s words were so powerful, but did not show his power and did everything within the rules of a human being.  He had so much stamina and determination.  There will never be a person with the determination equal to Guru Gobind Singh ji’s.  The king that had over 2 million soldiers in his personal army, 10,000 canons and 50,00 small canons, he couldn’t stand in front of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  The hill rajas had 157,000 soldiers; they could not take his radiance.  The kings had to bow in front of Guru ji.  The king of China was afraid of Aurangzeb.  After reading the Zafarnama, Aurangzeb wrote the Pandhnama, asking for forgiveness.  He understood his mistakes.  There was no other than Guru ji.” 

The Hazoori Sikhs asked Bhai Ram Koer ji for the full history.  As Bhai Ram Koer ji knew Guru ji from childhood, he knew every account of Guru ji’s life.  One of the Hazoori Singhs was Bhai Sahib Singh ji Likhaari who wrote down the words.  They said: “Bhai Ram Koer ji, you are powerful and have the power of divine sight to see past, present and future.  Please tell us the history of Guru ji.  Tell us what you have seen and heard.  Tell us the history of 8 Gurus after Guru Nanak Dev ji as well as Guru Gobind Singh ji’s.  Tell us what they had done to bless the world and how they helped the Sikhs.  We can conserve this history and the Khalsa Panth will grow by reading the history of the Gurus.  These Granths will be a witness to the glories of the Gurus.  Scholars will teach this history to others in the future.  Sikhs will prosper and strive to be better Sikhs.  Devotion and faith will grow inside them.  Bhai Ram Koer ji, the Panth will be thankful to you.  People will hear the history and come in the fold of Gurmat.”  Bhai Ram Koer ji accepted their request and spoke the history of the 9 Gurus, as Guru Nanak Dev ji’s history was already in existence as the Janamsakhi of Bhai Bala.  Bhai Sahib Singh Likhaari wrote the history as Bhai Ram Koer ji spoke.  Many Sikhs came to hear the history.  The history is a great epic that gives peace to Sikhs in both worlds.  Whoever listens to this history, they are granted whatever their heart’s desire.  This history destroys all pains, and grants the listener Brahmgyaan.  Whoever listens or speaks this history with love, Guru ji grants them mukti and becomes their protector.