12-21 Teasing the Haakam, Practicing the Slingshot

Guru Sahib blessed a lot of people in his childhood years.  The faithful received everything they asked for.  Whoever came to the feet of the Guru, they crossed the world ocean with ease.  The feet of Guru Gobind Singh ji were like a ferry, that helped you across this world.  His words were powerful hawks which made pain fly away like pigeons.  He is the Devata of Devatas and he protects his servants.  He is the treasure of virtues and is indifferent to all.  He is limitless.  He is the physical manifestation of the beautiful power of Akaal Purakh.  This form came as the grandson of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.

Guru Sahib played with his friends all day in his house.  Running from one end to the other; playing tag and other catching games.  The kids ran with Guru ji.  They loved him.  They stayed around Guru ji.  The jewellery the kids wore made clanking noises as they ran around.  Guru ji was always busy playing.  He was radiant like the moon amongst the stars. 

There was a Haakam Navaab that lived in Patna, commissioned by the Delhi Emperor.  He was the Navaab of Maghad.  He was very powerful and egotistical.  He was proud of himself.  He had a group of armed soldiers who went with him when he travelled on his elephant through the streets of Patna.  Everyone would bow to him as I travelled by.  One day, as the kids were playing, the Haakam was travelling in front of Guru ji’s house.  The kids heard the bells in the elephant’s neck ringing as the elephant waltzed by.  They all came outside to see what the commotion was all about.  They were on top of the rooftop looking on.  They saw the elephant.  The elephant had a colourful howdah (tarp) under the mahout’s (driver) seat.  There were golden bangles on the tusks with a golden seat and a golden goad (bull hook).  There were chains tied to the trunk of the elephant that made clanking noises when the elephant swayed as it walked.  A crowd gathered on the streets.  Everyone had to pay their respects by bowing their heads and saluting the Haakam as he rode by.  A Naqeeb (heralder) would announce the arrival of the Haakam and would stop people from coming forth.  The Naqeeb yelled out to all the kids: “put your hand on your heads with respect and salute the Navaab (Haakam) and stand back.”  Guru Sahib heard the Naqeeb and told all the kids to do the opposite.  He told the kids: “let’s go to the front and make silly faces to the Haakam.  Stick out your tongues and show your teeth to them.”  All the kids when to the front and starting to make weird faces to the Haakam and teased him.   They would run around and move ahead and back.  There were around 100 kids.  They made silly faces to tease the Navaab.  Their jewellery would make clanking noises as they ran around.  This was the army of the Faultless One.  The kids ran fast.  The Haakam saw the kids and said to the Mohavat: “why are these kids making monkey faces at me and running around like apes?  They run fast and tease me.”  Guru Sahib heard the Haakam’s egotistical words and got really angry.  He stopped and made a prophecy that came out of his mouth as a curse: “there are no monkeys here!  The good-looking people with monkey eyes will come and take your kingdom away from you!  Your hearts and minds are weak and so your glory will be taken away by these people!  Nobody will protect you!  Your radiance will be taken away!  These elephants will be gone!  As you are prancing around, proud of your power, you will become powerless!  Vidhatta (Brahma- creation form of Akaal Purakh) will reverse your destinies, that time will come soon!”  (Guru Sahib was prophesizing the coming of the British East India Company through the Bay of Bengal and eventually taking over Patna).  The Turk was surprised to hear this child speak such powerful words.  “What is this child saying?  He speaks like a saint or Peer.  It’s as though he cursed us in anger,” said the Haakam.  The Mohavat that sat atop the shoulders of the elephant, spoke to the Haakam: “kids say whatever comes to their minds.  They don’t know what respect of hierarchy is.  All they do is play and eat all day long.  They have no other worry.  You are very powerful and your glory is spread from sea to sea.  I would ask you to not worry yourself.”  Guru ji cursed the Mughal’s in such a way that their power would fall dim in the coming years.  The sins of the Turks drowned their kingdom.  Guru ji said the future of how the East India Company would take their kingdom.  The Lord Guru then began to play with his friends again.  They had Karah Prashaad and enjoyed themselves. Some people would bring sweets for the kids and bow to Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji was the form of joy.  He was the form of bliss, Gyaan and compassion.  The people did their Ardaas in front of Guru ji while bringing fruits and delicious foods.  They received their wishes.  The kids would eat.  The Sikhs would come to meet Guru ji while he was busy playing.  He played in many ways.  Their clothes would get dirty from the sand and dirt.  They would laugh and play in joy.  The wishes that aren’t fulfilled by doing many donations and sacrifices; they were fulfilled by the love of the Guru.

As time passed by, the child Guru grew stronger, day by day.  As he grew older, his handsome features got sharper.  One day, one of his friends brought a slingshot to play with.  Guru Sahib held the slingshot in his hand and instantly fell in love with it.  He took small pellets and began to fire them away.  He told his friend that he wanted to keep the slingshot to which his friend happily agreed.  He blessed the friend with joy.  He practiced with the slingshot everyday and perfected his aim.  This was the point of his birth, to be a master of weaponry and to fight and destroy evil.  He called for mud and made many small pellets out of the clay.  He molded them and put them out to dry.  He would set targets out in the distance and practice his aim everyday.  He would be happy to hit the targets.  He gave them to his friends and had them practice as well.  He made them practice everyday and taught them how to aim.  When they would hit their target, Guru Sahib would say: “shaabaash.”  He asked for slingshots made of bamboo and practiced with those as well.  The kids would ask their parents to buy them the best slingshots.  Day by day, their arms got stronger by pulling the slingshots harder.  Guru ji would tell his friends some tricks to aim better, or how to shoot further.  He praised them when they made a nice shot.  They practiced with new techniques as days went by.  They tried different distances and elevations.  The kids asked their parents to buy better slingshots.  They bought colorful ones and showed Guru ji: “we bought a new one today!”  They pulled the string and aimed at the targets.  Guru ji would praise the ones that had good aim.  He taught them out to aim better.  They played with slingshots.  Guru ji played with the kids. 

Many days passed.  The practice got better.  They aimed far with the slingshots with targets in walls.  They aimed while standing and steadying their mind.  Guru ji inspired others to use the slingshots.  Their child’s play thus turned into practicing archery as they all grew.  The Prabhoo’s aim was to destroy the tyrants.  It was a natural transition for a born warrior.  Guru ji got stronger by the day.  Mata Nanaki ji would see her grandson’s growing ambition in the arts of weaponry.  She saw how he loved to play battle plays.  She thought to herself: “he has inherited his grandfather’s love for weaponry and battle strategy.  He will be like his grandfather.”  She grew anxious and scared thinking about the past when Mughlas Khan attacked Amritsar and how they had to leave from their home.  Although Guru Hargobind Sahib ji defeated Mughlas Khan’s forces, it was a traumatic experience for everyone.  It was the time when Bibi Veero ji (Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s sister) was to be married when Mughlas Khan attacked with his army of 7,000.  The wedding was postponed because of that.  Many expensive items were destroyed and looted.  (During the 2^nd and 3^rd battle Guru Hargobind Sahib ji fought, Mata Nanaki ji was not with him) They then came to Kartarpur and had another battle there.  They left Kartarpur after killing hundreds of thousands.  “Guru Gobind Singh ji is just like his grandfather.  He loves holding and using weapons.  When he grows up, he will be radiant like his grandfather.  He wears expensive clothes with diamond and golden jewellery.  He is smart and clever.  He plays with his friends and enjoys his archery.”  Mata Nanaki ji was happy seeing her grandson’s radiance.  She wanted a grandson for a long time.  She finally got it.  He was a treasure of love for her.  She made Guru ji wear beautiful clothes with diamond and golden jewellery.  During the day, Guru ji played war games.  He played with the rich and poor kids all day.  When night would fall, his friends would go home and wait for morning so they can see Guru Sahib again.  They would say the praises of Guru ji to their parents: “we did this today.  This is what he said today.  We played tag.  We ate sweets today.  The Sikhs come and bring food for us.  Guru ji makes us sit with him and gives us the food first.  He tells the people to give us food and makes sure we are happy.”  They spoke to their parents in this way.

The parents were happy to hear this.  People would bring sweets and gourmet dishes for Guru Sahib.  Guru Sahib would share them with all his friends and enjoy themselves.  He was given foods to eat that were good for strengthening the body by Mata Nanaki ji.  She would give him good food to eat.  She wanted Guru ji to be really strong.  She wanted him to be a strong warrior.  She would prepare his bed with white sheets.  She made Guru ji sleep on the bed and slept close by.  She would lay out Guru Gobind Singh ji’s clothes and would praise her daughter-in-law and grandson.  Mata Gujri ji would hear the praises from her mother-in-law’s mouth and close her eyes.  She would bow her head remembering the Guru.  She would do Simran of Guru Nanak Dev ji and ask him to protect her son.  Mata Nanaki ji would say the history of all the Gurus to Mata Gujri ji and Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Guru Sahib was raised well and both mothers would keep a keen eye on him.  They would keep him near and would throw rye and salt over his head to ward off evil eyes.  They kept an eye on him like a snake keeps an eye on its Mani.  They didn’t let him go far from their eyes.  They looked at him with love.  They washed Guru ji’s face with warm water.  He was given warm water to bathe everyday and clothes to wear according to the seasons.  The clothes were colourful.  They would pray every day for the Guru to be with their child.  They would keep him in their lap but the child Guru would run around, not wanting to sit in their lap.  They would say: “Guru ji, protect him.”  Guru ji would leave and play with his friends.  Mata ji kept an eye on Guru ji all the time.  She kept stopping him from things.

12-22 The 9^th Paatshaah Leaves Assam

Guru ji had established many villages in the 5 years with Sikhs in the east.  5 villages he established in Bihar (Lakshmipur, Kantnagar etc.) during his expedition to and from Assam.  He spread Sikhi in the East and orchestrated a truce between the Hindu Kings.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji helped Raja Bishan Singh with his tasks and returned along with the army.  The King would serve Guru Sahib in various ways.  The Rajas of Kamroop, Tripura, Nagaland and Guwahati became Guru ji’s Sikhs.  The treaties were signed with Kamroop and the army was happy, as there was no fighting.  Guru Sahib stayed there about 5 years and made sure there was peace and Bishan Singh was happy with the outcome.  The Nagaras of victory were sounded and the return to Patna began.  Raja Bishan Singh returned with Guru ji.  Nagaras and Ransinghas sounded.  Guru Sahib was seated in a palanquin with the conches and the trumpets sounding.  The Raja made Guru ji sit there with respect.  They came slowly.  They would rest the night and ride during the day.  Wherever they would stop, people would find out about Guru ji coming and would come to see him with joy.  They would bring money and gifts for Guru Sahib and do his Darshan.  Money and great gifts were brought to make Guru ji happy.  They would ask Guru ji to fulfill their wishes.  The people would return with fulfilled wishes and praising Guru ji.  Guru ji would rest at noon.  They would set out in the morning.  When they would rest at noon, Raja Bishan Singh would come sit beside Guru Sahib.  The Raja would bow with his hands folded.  Guru ji would give him the wisdom of the Aatma.  Guru Sahib would tell him things about his family and home.  He would tell him about his mother, Mata Nanaki ji, of how this is the first time she was separated from him for such a long time.  Guru ji went to visit the East to bless the area.  Mata Nanaki ji had sent many letters to Guru Sahib about his updates and she was eager to see her grandson when Guru ji left Patna.  Guru Sahib had a lot of people coming back and forth from Patna, updating him on his son and how everyone was back home.  He was glad to here about his son.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji travelled faster to go to Patna.  Bishan Singh would wake up in the morning and travel.

In Patna, both Mata Nanaki ji and Mata Gujri ji would tell Guru Gobind Singh ji about their homeland of Punjab: “listen son, Punjab is the land of the Satguru.  Your father lived there.  The Turks waged big battles with your grandfather, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Your grandfather fought wars with them, in which many warriors died.  Guru Ramdas ji was the gem of the Sodhis.  This family is the supreme.  Guru Ramdas ji’s praises spread far and wide.  He was born in Lavpur (Lahore) and lived in Goindwal afterwards.  He served Guru Amardas ji for 22 years.  Goindwal was the first Teerath.  Guru Ramdas ji founded the city of Amritsar which was a great Teerath for Sikhs to visit.  It is a beautiful city.  Your elders are from that place.  When your grandfather became the Guru, the Turks fought with him and lost.  They fought your grandfather 4 times.  The Turk armies were destroyed each time to total annihilation.  He then went to his father’s place, Kartarpur (established by Guru Arjan Dev ji in Doaba), and lived there.  He then saw the shores of Bipasha (Beas) and settled there (Sri Hargovindpur/ formerly, Rohaila).  He had a great battle there as well.  Many Turks were killed there.  He then anointed the Guruship to his grandson, Sri Guru Har Rai ji.  Guru Har Rai ji had two sons: Baba Ram Rai and the younger, Sri Guru Harkrishan ji.  The Emperor of Delhi called the elder, Baba Ram Rai, to Delhi and asked him to show him his powers.  The Emperor kept him with respect.  Baba Ram Rai would show the Emperor miracles on a daily bases without delay.  He showed the Emperor what he wanted to see.  Sri Guru Har Rai ji did not like how Baba Ram Rai showed off his powers.  Guru Har Rai ji was upset with him.  He gave the Gurta Ghaddi to the younger son, Guru Harkrishan ji.  Guru Harkrishan ji sat on the Guru throne for 2 years and a few months and left this world to Sach Khand (at Bala Sahib, Delhi).  After Guru Harkrishan ji, it was your father who was given the Gurta Ghaddi.  Many would come to worship him but his own nephew, Dheermal, was jealous.  The cousins caused conflicts.  Sodhi Dheermal and others came to Bakala, pretending to be the Guru.  Your father lived in Bakala.  He left it because of his cousins.  He crossed the river and came to Kiratpur which was established by your eldest Thaya ji, Baba Gurditta ji.  (It was formerly known as Keertanpur as Guru Nanak Dev ji did Keertan there near the root of the Shivalik Hills.  He blessed Peer Bhuddan Shah ji there) Baba Gurditta ji was your Thaya ji.  He established this city by your grandfather’s command.  He went to Sach Khand at a young age.  Your grandfather lived there after the Battle of Kartarpur and spent 10 years in Kiratpur.  He left to Bekunth (Sach Khand) from this place.  Your grandfather’s cremation was done in Kiratpur (Pataalpuri Sahib).  Your father and all of us visited Kiratpur after leaving Bakala.  We met your other Thaya, Baba Sooraj Mal ji and other relatives for a few months.  Your father decided not to stay there as it may cause friction within the family.  Your father does not like conflict of any sorts.  He loves peace and to sit in Simran.  He doesn’t like to debate or fight.  Thinking about this, we travelled about 5 Kos ahead.  There, he established a new city named Anandpur, by purchasing the land from the Rani of Tara Chand, Rani Champa.  There were rivers flowing there.  Guru ji established his own city there and called it “Anandpur.”  After establishing Anandpur, we stayed there for a while and then set out to visit the Teeraths of Prayaag.  We bathed in all of the Teeraths along the way.  We stayed in Prayaag for 6 months.  We then arrived in Patna, where you were born.  We were waiting for you to be born.  We liked this city and wanted to stay here.  There was a great Rajput King who was going to Kamroop to attack it, but he feared the magicians of Kamroop.  He came to your father’s shelter for help.  Your father left us to go to the East with the Rajput King.  He left us to go there.  You were then born after he left.  It has been 5 years now.  We just received his message that he is coming back now.  It is a time for great joy as he is coming after many years.”  Both the mothers would tell Guru Gobind Singh ji stories about his father and forefathers before they would go to sleep.  Guru Gobind Singh ji would enjoy listening to all of the history of the Gurus.  As he listened everyday, he would become anxious and ask: “Our land Punjab is great!  When can we go to our homeland Punjab?  Our ancestors are from that land.  It would be great to go and live there.  When Pita ji comes back, we will go back to Punjab.”  He said this everyday.  Both the mothers enjoyed talking to the child and so, would talk about Punjab everyday.  They would keep him calm to make him stay in Patna.  Both mother and grandmother wondered why Guru ji was so eager to go to Punjab.  They kissed his forehead.  It was just like Yashoda speaking to Krishan.  The mothers would say: “there is too much conflict in Punjab.  We faced many battles and troubles there.  We like it here, as it’s peaceful here.  There are Sikhs and servants everywhere.  The Sikhs here serve us well.  They give us many gifts and do as we say.  They obey you.  Why would you want to go to Punjab?  We will stay here.  Son, there is peace here.”  The mothers would stop Guru ji from thinking about going to Punjab.  The child Guru would respond: “I wish to go to Punjab where the radiance of the greats of Sodhis shines brightly.”  Guru ji spoke to his grandmother a lot.  These conversations took place everyday.  As time passed, Guru Sahib grew taller and stronger by the day.  He played many games with all of his child friends.

12-23 Guru Ji Comes Back to Patna

Guru ji and Bishan Singh, travelled the long distance and arrived at Patna.  There was a deep bliss that spread throughout the city.  The army camped outside of the city.  Bishan Singh set up camp.  He stood beside Guru ji and folded his hands.  He made a request to Guru Sahib: “I wish to see the Sahibzada.  There is a deep longing in my heart to see him.  Please bless me that I may see him and touch his feet.  I wish to complete my wish now.”  Guru Sahib, Bishan Singh and the army were all by the shore of the river Ganga.  Guru Sahib said: “I am eager to see the Sahibzada as well.  We shall all see him tomorrow.  Tonight, we shall camp here.”  Guru Sahib sent a message to Mata Nanaki ji that they had set up the Dhera on the shores of the Ganga.  They will be arriving the next day.  Mata ji heard the messenger and became extremely happy.  She began to give donations to the poor.  She called the beggars to come inside the house to receive their donations.  She had love for her son.  She took Guru Gobind Singh ji into her lap and said: “your father is coming home tomorrow morning!”  Everyone in and around the house and city was happy and congratulating each other as Guru Sahib was returning after a long time.  The Sikhs and servants were all happy.  They celebrated all night.

In the morning, everyone got up with an eagerness in their heart.  Mata Gujri ji warmed water and gave Guru Gobind Singh ji a bath.  She dressed him in colourful clothes.  She dressed him with golden hoops and jewellery, studded with diamonds and gems.  Pearl necklaces were put around his neck.  The pearls were round and shined like the moon.  They were radiant on his face.  She tied a beautiful Dastaar on his head with a cheera (golden embroidery at the ends of the Dastaar) and a jigha.  Many smaller pearl necklaces were put around his neck that were tied with emeralds at the knot.  The necklaces had diamonds embedded into them that would reflect rainbows of bright light when he moved.  Armlets with nine gems were tied to his arms.  It was as though the nine planets were hanging from his arms.  He wore golden bracelets in both hands that had Jadow (hand engraved work on jewellery with emeralds and ruby) work on them.  He wore a jama made from a very fine material that had the work of golden zarri (real gold thread woven into the fabric) done on it.  A Parna with golden borders was put over his shoulder.  He was given instructions as he was being dressed: “there is a King with your father.  Many men are with them right now.  Bow to your father when you see him and climb into his lap.  Speak to the king and make conversation with him with respect.”  Many preparations were made at home for Guru Sahib’s arrival.  Carpets and floorings were laid out.  Everyone was waiting.

Guru Sahib did his morning cleansing routine and sat down for his daily Nitnem, immersing his thoughts into the light of Akaal Purakh.  Bishan Singh got ready as well, donning his weapons and clothes.  He came towards Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji’s tent and awaited to see him.  Guru ji wore his clothes and weapons as well.  He got ready.  Guru Sahib called for his servants that were to carry his palanquin.  The Raja mounted his horse and set towards the city along with his army.  Thousands of men, officers and soldiers were with them.  As they marched through the markets of Patna, people stood around and bowed towards the palanquin that Guru Sahib was sitting in.  They all showered flowers on top of Guru ji.  The Sangat of Patna met at a designated place the night before and walked together towards the house where Guru Gobind Singh ji was, bringing gifts and food.  There was a great crowd in and around the house as people were eager to see Guru Sahib and wanted the best view.  Many people climbed to their rooftops.  Some climbed high walls and sat to get a glimpse of Guru ji’s Darshan.  The Naqeebs were making announcements as they came walking, signifying the arrival of Guru Sahib.  The Nagaras, Shehnais, Turrees and Narsinghas were sounding loudly.  When they reached the doorway of the house, everyone stood up and folded their hands.  The conches, Shehnais and Dhundhabs played.  Mamma Kirpal Chand ji was holding the child Guru in his lap and put him down to bow at his father’s feet.  Both father and son looked at each other with great joy.  As he was his father in his last birth, known as Samundh Rishi, Dusht Daman was his son; Guru Gobind Singh ji met his father, Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji for the first time in this birth.  For millions of years, Dusht Daman ji performed his tapp penance.  He was the power of Akaal Purakh that was a powerful form.  He came out of the skin of the lion rug that Rishi Samundh ji did his tapp on.  He destroyed many demons as he was born out of the power of Samundh Rishi ji’s tapp.  They have been separated ever since then.  It was bliss and Brahamgyaan looking glorious, standing together.  The light of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji was carried by Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  The light wished to take in Guru Gobind Singh ji in itself.  Dusht Daman was meeting his father as the incarnation of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji for the first time.  Guru Sahib noticed the joy and bliss on his son’s face.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji sat on the Guru Throne and was happy to see everyone.  Everyone was happy to see Guru ji.

Bishan Singh came over to the child Guru, Gobind Rai ji.  He saw the power in his eyes and the radiance on his face.  Raja Bishan Singh bowed at his feet.  It was like colour in a crystal.  His eyes were smart and beautiful.  Guru ji was a child with a lot of energy.  Raja Bishan Singh was thinking to himself: “it is as though the Warrior spirit itself had incarnated into this child.”  Raja Bishan Singh said: “this Sahibzada will destroy the tyrants, just like his grandfather did.  You are calm and saved many, granting salvation, but he will be a warrior with strong arms.  His radiance and body are telling me this.  He will be friends with the friendly, but the destroyer of evil.”  Bishan Singh brought golden bracelets for Guru Gobind Singh ji and put them on his wrists.  There were diamonds and gems in the golden bracelets he put in Guru ji’s both hands.  He also brought an expensive pearl necklace which he put around the Sahibzada’s neck.  Pashmina clothes were placed at the Guru’s child’s feet.  Everyone asked each other how they were and people were surrounded around the meeting taking place.  Some people came close to touch Guru ji’s feet.  People came to place gifts in front of Guru Sahib and asked him how he was.  Guru Sahib asked everyone to sit down and made conversation with everyone.  The Raja sat near Guru ji. 

The beggars came and asked for alms, singing in loud voices.  Raja Bishan Singh took money into his hands and circumvented the money around the head of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  He gave the money to one of his own servants and said: “give this to the beggars.”  The servant made all the beggars sit in rows and gave them all the money.  The Taadis, Kalavats, Bhatts and Doom folk singers came as well and were given donations.  The Bhatts were given money.  The beggars and the singers were all happy with the money and felt at peace seeing Guru Sahib.  They shouted out in glee: “Jai Guru ji!”  They were all in bliss, looking at both Gurus.  Everyone stayed with the whole Guru’s family for about 2 hours and then left to their homes. 

Raja Bishan Singh was really happy.  He bowed to Guru Sahib and asked for permission to take his leave.  He headed towards his camp to rest.  During his ride to his camp, he couldn’t stop talking about Guru Sahib and his family.  He was filled with so much love and continuously praised Guru Sahib for all he had done for him: “the Guru is great, as is his son.  I am at peace doing his Darshan.  The Kamroop conflict would not have been resolved peacefully if it wasn’t for Guru Sahib.  This issue had been going on for many years and decades.  Guru Sahib gave me a second life, otherwise I would not have been alive today.  I will meet the Emperor with pride now and then go home.  I will take Guru ji’s permission first.”  His ministers and officers all agreed: “this was an impossible task that Guru ji did for you.  You are very fortunate to have had his help.  Guru ji came with us and made all of your tasks a success.”  In this way, they all praised Guru ji.  Bishan Singh returned to his Dhera and was now a servant of the Guru, from his mind and body.  Guru ji had completed his wishes.

12-24 Residing in Patna, The Raja takes Leave

Satguru ji was sitting with the Sangat and everyone presented their gifts to him.  He gave the Sangat his Darshan and fulfilled their wishes.  After a while, the Guru Master got up and took his son, the child Gobind Rai ji.  He went to see his mother Mata Nanaki ji.  He bowed to her feet with humility.  As soon as Mata Nanaki ji saw her son, she began to tear up.  Mata ji was quite old now.  She loved her son dearly.  She touched her son’s shoulders and arms and gave him blessings: “may you live a long and peaceful life.  May you be happy in every way.  May Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji be by your side at all times.”  Mata Gujri ji came to see her husband.  She folded her hands and bowed towards Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s feet.  All of the servants came to see Guru ji and bowed to his feet. They were all glad to see Guru ji’s form. 

Everyone, including Guru Sahib then looked towards the Sahibzada as the Sahibzada spoke to his father: “Pitaji, how long did you go for?  How far did you travel?  Did you go to the ocean or did you stay away from the shore?  For which kingdom did you battle for?  Was there a battle or not?  Did you see the enemy?”  Guru ji heard his son’s sweet words and then began to tell him what had happened: “In the kingdom of Kamroop, there were many magicians and witches.  Their Mantras are really strong there.  There are many Sikhs there as well.  Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji had been there in the past along with Bhai Bala ji  and Bhai Mardana ji.  Guru Nanaki ji stayed outside of the city and wanted to establish Sikhi in this region.  Bhai Mardana ji was thirsty and so he went to the city to get water.  When Bhai Mardana ji entered the city, a witch came and put a string around his neck and turned him into a sheep.  Guru Nanak Dev ji sensed what had happened and came to save him.  The same witch tried to put a string around Guru Nanak Dev ji’s neck as well.  Nothing happened to Guru ji, but the witch turned into a sheep herself.  The witch’s friend came to put a string around Bhai Bala ji’s neck but ended up turning into a dog herself.  The husbands of these women came to see what had happened to their wives.  Guru Sahib turned Bhai Mardana ji back into a human being.  They saw the greatness of Guru Sahib and they all became his Sikhs.  The head witch asked Guru ji to teach her his magic.  Guru ji said: “if you are coming to buy kaller, you’re asking for mushk (Kapoor) as a choonga.”  Guru ji gave them the wisdom of the Satnam and Keertan.  They built a Dharamsala there and spread the message of Sikhi, Bhakti and love.  They were taught Prema Bhagti.  The king of Kamroop had not joined the Turk Emperor’s confederation.  The people of Kamroop used their magic to keep their land free.  The Emperor sent Bishan Singh to win the Kamroop kingdom but Bishan Singh came to seek my assistance instead.  He took me to Kamroop and I made sure that both kingdoms reached a mutual agreement.  There was no battle.  Both sides called a truce.  Raja Bishan Singh maintained his honour.  Peace was restored and the Nagaras were sounded.”  Listening to Guru ji’s adventures and successful outcome, the whole family and servants were happy.  They had dinner with many types of foods.  They all ate in joy.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji and Guru Gobind Singh ji were satiated and went to sleep.

The Sangat of Patna came to see Guru Sahib, bringing many gifts.  They would ask Guru ji of his time in Kamroop.  People would hear about his adventures and sing the Guru’s praises: “who else other than yourself would be able to resolve the issue of Kamroop?  That land is filled with Mantras and Magic.  These were the people that killed Maan Singh, a great warrior.  What else can we say of other people?”  There were great crowds going in and out of Guru Sahib’s home and the pile of gifts and money was getting big.  There was a lot of Langar and celebrations there.  There was Kirtan everyday as Guru Sahib settled back into his home.  For three days Bishan Singh stayed and then he wished to go see the Turk Emperor.  Bishan Singh came to see Guru Sahib and bowed.  He expressed his wish to take leave.  He put a great amount of money at the feet of Guru Sahib and spoke with love while folding his hands: “with your blessings I am praised.  I came back with joy and peace.  I have been successful.  I wish to go see the Emperor and then go home.  It has been a long time since a left home, this you know.”  Guru Sahib heard his request and commanded: “go to your kingdom and meditate on the True Name, Satnam for peace.  If you face any hurdles, think of the Satguru and your pains will go away.  The Naam makes all of the obstacles go away.”  Listening to Guru ji’s words, the Raja bowed to Guru Sahib.  He did not want to leave as he had become very close to Guru Sahib, but he had to go home now.  He took leave and went to his camp.  He mobilized his forces and then headed to Delhi.  After meeting the Badshah in Delhi, he returned to his home in Jaipur/Jodhpur.

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji would sit in Kirtan and explain the path of Sikhi to the Sangat.  He fulfilled everyone’s wishes.  He spread Sikhi in Patna.  He would look at his son with deep love and get him to sit next to him.  He knew that it was going to be his son that would uproot the Turks from the land.  He looked at him with love.  He kept his son close to him.  The way his son was going to run his battle strategies; wage war on the tyrants; fill the Sikhs with the warrior spirit, Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji could see it all.  His son was born from Brahamgyaan.  He was the Power of the Bir Rass, the warrior spirit, that took the form of a small body.  Just as King Dashrath would look at his son Ramchandra ji with love, so did Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji place his son lovingly in his lap.  They looked like Vasudev and Krishna, sitting together.  Guru Sahib gave a focused attention to raising his son.  Mata ji dressed him in silk clothes and jewellery.  The child Guru would keep a slingshot with him all the time and practiced day and night.  He would pull it hard and perfect his aim.  The children of the rich businessmen would come see Guru Gobind Rai ji everyday.  They met and played.  Guru ji would divide them into two parties.  He would make one team stand on one side, and keep the other team with himself.  He would take charge of one side and let another lead the other.  He would make the two parties charge each other to get to the other side.  They all fought each other.  Some would stay standing and not charge, while the others that were enthusiastic would follow the charge.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji would see this from far away.  With love, Guru ji would call his son to be in his presence and say: “why have you started your battle training so soon?  Sit beside me and listen to the Ardaas prayers of the Sikhs.”  He spoke to his son with love.  Guru Gobind Singh ji would spend time with his father and then go back to his friends to play, when given the permission.  They would bump into each other hard and fight battle.  He would take the brunt of the other kids bumping into him and then bump into others to drop them. Their jewellery would clank as they played.  Guru ji kept playing with the kids. 

Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji would sit in Divaan.  The Sangat from far heard about Guru Sahib coming back to Patna from the East and would come to see him bringing gifts.  They did the Darshan and had their wishes fulfilled.  They presented money and made it successful.  New Sangat came everyday.  They did Guru ji’s feet’s Darshan and worshiped them.  The Masands would come with their Sangats as well and would collect the Dasvand to offer to Guru Sahib.  They would come and stay a few days and then leave with their Siropas from Guru ji.  They would leave the city to go to their homes.  They collected the Dasvands from all of the Sikhs in their area.  The Masands would make a round every six to twelve months.  They would come bringing the money of the Sangat.  In this way, Guru ji stayed in Patna.  Guru Sahib spent time sitting with the Sangat and preaching the True Name, Satnam.  Mata Nanaki ji was over-joyed seeing her son and grandson together.  The words of the elder Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji were true and she was witnessing the prophecy of her grandson.  She would prepare many types of foods for both sons and sit beside them as they ate.  Many gifts came everyday.  The Langar was run with all the gifts.  There was no type of shortage.  Where Guru ji lived, how can there be a shortage there?  Many months passed in this peaceful way.  Guru ji fulfilled the wishes of the Sikh Sangat.  Many Fakirs who went with Guru ji to bathe at the Teeraths, their sins were washed away because of Guru ji’s Darshan.  They came to Patna with Guru ji.  Some would come and stay with Guru Sahib.  Some Sikhs would stay with Guru Sahib and take leave for short periods to meet their families but would come back to Guru Sahib again.  The Sikhs made their lives a success.  Many new Sikhs would come and fall in love with Guru Sahib.  By staying with Guru Sahib, their wishes were fulfilled.  Bhai Mati Das ji was a great Sikh who was very smart.  He was the Deevan of Guru Sahib and maintained the treasury and budget.  He kept track of the revenue and expenses of the Guru’s home.

12-25 Consoling Mata Nanaki ji and Mata Gujri ji

For many months Satguru ji lived in Patna but he decided to go to Punjab.  He talked to Mata Nanaki ji about his plan: “I will go to Punjab now.  Our Desh Punjab is great.  It has been a while since I’ve left Punjab.  Punjab carries a great significance.  I’ve been here many years now.  The time in the East was with joy.  It is time to go to Anandpur that I founded.  I need to see how it is progressing and see if it requires any assistance.  It needs to be settled further.  It’s been a long time since I’ve seen it.”  Mata ji heard his words and began to shed tears.  She said: “you’ve been away for so many years from me while visiting the East and now you want to leave again.  I’ve been longing to see you.  How will I be at peace without you being here?”  Satguru ji responded in a very soft and loving voice: “I am going to Punjab now.  When I go, after some time, I will call for you all, soon.  In that time, the Sahibzada will grow taller and stronger.  He will be able to travel then.  Come as soon as you get my message.  That is why I am going now.  Stay here now.  When you come, we will live there with the young Guru.”  Mata ji responded disapprovingly: “there are too many problems in Punjab.  You were young when you saw all this but the Sodhi cousins are all jealous and caused problems.  They see your radiance and their chests burn from jealousy.  They became our enemies and want to give you pain.  Since we’ve come to this region, we’ve been very happy.  There were no problems here.  What’s the big deal that a city was established there?  What’s it to us?  What will we get there?  My opinion is the best: don’t go there.  We should stay here in the East.  It’s better here.”  Satguru ji continued to get his mother to understand: “Pitha ji was omnipotent and capable in every aspect.  He was in conflicts with the Turk Emperor which resulted in war.  He stayed in battle with them.  I have no conflict with anyone so nobody will bother me.  There are pressing issues at hand that require my physical presence in Punjab.  There are people with hatred and ego that I need to address.  Our family clan is a great society.  Guru Gobind Singh ji will be among our people.  He will be the most radiant in our family.  He will be the moon amongst the stars there.  When he grows up, he will perform a lot of difficult tasks, easily, there.” 

Guru ji consoled his mother in this way and gave her a lot of hope.  He then spoke to his wife, Mata Gujri ji: “listen to your son and do as he says.  He is the Avatar of the Mahapurakh, the Great Being.  His radiance will be great and whatever words will come from his mouth, will instantly become true.  Even if he says them in passing without notice, they will become true and will not be reversed.  Whatever he says and wants to do, agree to his words and follow what he does.  Do not oppose his wishes and do not be stubborn in front of him.  His radiance and wealth will grow.  He has many great tasks in front of him.  He will be great and will have great wealth and possessions.  If you do not listen to what he says, you will have to pay the price for it (Guru ji was foreshadowing the leaving of the Anandpur Fort, where Mata ji was stubborn to leave) He will have elephants, horses and a great army.  Raise him with love and respect.  You will enjoy all of the fruits of raising a great son.  Whether we meet again or not, do not look forward to that.  I have to travel far and will be out for a very long time.  Make sure your son is happy, in and out of the house.  Don’t let him go too far though, you will need him to stay out of trouble.  See yourself as really fortunate and blessed that such a great being has taken a birth in your house.  He will create a new religion, society and tradition.  He will destroy many evil tyrants.”  Thus, Guru Sahib consoled Mata Gujri ji as well.  She heard such a detailed and long praise about her son and thought to herself: “my husband is always right.  There will definitely be a lot of wealth and possession coming into our house.  My son will be really radiant and will do great tasks in life.  I can see that his body, walk and talk is great.  He will be the only one like him.  He will kill the sinners.  He already has a great reputation and people bow to him now.”  She spoke to her husband: “Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji has blessed us greatly.  My father-in-law’s words were true as well about my son.  My son will be great and really radiant.  I have full faith in these prophecies.  He will spread the name of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, far and wide.  Your father had said these words.  They live in my heart.  The mountain can walk but your words do not.  I trust you fully.  I love my son more than anything else in this world.  How can I hurt him?  I will protect him from trouble and listen to every word he has to say.  When he plays, I will keep my eyes on him.  I will obey my son’s words.  He is a great son who is obedient.  He will have really strong arms.  There is one thing that worries me: you are doubtful of seeing us again.  Why did you say such a thing?  These words are worrying me, hearing you.  Your son is still young.  Your family needs you still.  You are our support.  We have no other support.  Your son is till young and we are living in another Desh.  The whole world worships you.  What will happen to us without you?  Your mother is very old, what will she do without you?  She will be in pain.  There is joy only with you.  You are our support, wherever you are.”  Satguru ji heard her words and gave her hope: “trust your son.  He will be a great Guru; the Guru of Gurus.  The whole world will worship his feet.  Don’t look at his young age.  He is the unlimited power of Akaal Purakh.  No Avatar was as strong as he will be.  He will feed the world and will be the support of millions.  He will grant the nine treasures to anyone just by speaking.  The nine treasures will come running to those who he blesses.  His curse will destroy the biggest Emperors of the world.  Akaal Purakh is limitless and is the master of the universe.  He has worshiped the Akaal Purakh and is one with the Akaal Purakh.  Akaal Purakh was happy, with him.  Akaal Purakh blessed him and sent him to earth with all of the powers.  He will perform many great tasks but will remain separate and untouched from the vices of this world.”  Guru ji made sure Mata Gujri ji understood who her son was.  Guru Sahib continued: “whatever important tasks I need to do, I will carry them out as they are supposed to be.  Do not worry and feel bad about anything.  Do not be in sorrow or depression.  Be engrossed in the joy of raising your son.  This body is a myth and do not take it to be permanent.  Understand this carefully, and make sure your faith in this belief is strong: we get attached to our body for futile reasons.  The fact is, this body is destined to die.  No body has ever stayed forever.  Billions come to this earth and billions leave in a day.  This world is created like a flowing river.  Only the Sat Chetananand (true, still, and blissful) Aatma is real.  That never dies nor ceases to exist; it never comes nor goes.  It is always in one state.  It is forever still, unaffected by anything.  The one who knows his/her real self is the true “Giani.”  Make sure this is planted deep in your heart.  With good karma you are born in the house of the Guru, therefore do not fall prey to attachment like others.  Don’t be attached to bodies.  Whatever happens, consider it good and accept its fate.  Do not doubt destiny.  How long can a person live?  He/she still has to die one day, during their end time.  For this reason, be patient and content.  Raise your son with respect and love.  If we are to meet again or not, do not feel happy or sad of this situation.”  Listening to her husband’s words gave Mata Gujri ji a wise insight into life.  The introspective was deep but her love still caused her eyes to shed tears.  She couldn’t say anything due to her emotions swelling up.  She kept looking at the body of her husband as he walked away.  She was overwhelmed with emotion.  She didn’t say anything.  Guru Sahib went outside of the house and sat down with the Sangat as the Divan began.