3-36 Meeting Baba Mohri ji

As the task of getting the Pothis was a success, Guru Arjan Dev ji was extremely happy.  Guru ji wanted to compile a single binding of the Gurbani, Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru ji got ready to go to Amritsar.  Baba Mohri ji heard about Baba Mohan ji giving Guru ji the Pothis.  He was happy to hear that Baba Mohan ji gave the Pothis to Guru ji and bowed to his feet.  Baba Mohan ji was a Mast Sadhoo who did not care for the world.  He would speak harsh words to everyone.  Baba Mohri ji had wondered how this all happened: “how did he agree to Guru Arjan Dev ji’s request?  He bowed to him too.  He didn’t bow to Guru Ramdas ji, after being commanded by Guru Amardas ji Pithaji.  Guru Arjan Dev ji is great and very humble.  Baba Mohan ji must have seen this.  The Jot that lived in the four Gurus is now in Guru Arjan Dev ji.”  Baba Mohri ji thought about all this and went to go see Guru Arjan Dev ji.  He saw his nephew from afar and was really happy.

Baba Mohri ji did parkarma of Guru Arjan Dev ji and bowed to him, seeing him as Guru Amardas ji.  “Guru Arjan Dev ji, you are the idol of Gyaan.  Please come into the house.  Come to my house just as Krishan ji came to Vidhur’s home.  He gave him greatness and love.  You only see the love in the Sikhs’ hearts for you.  Please come to my home.”  Baba Mohri ji praised Guru ji and bowed to Guru Arjan Dev ji’s feet.  He was filled with love and devotion.  Guru Arjan Dev ji looked at his Mammaji’s state and raised him up.  He said to him: “you are my elder.  You are my Mammaji.  You are the son of Guru Amardas ji, whose name destroys sins.  My whole family is Guru Amardas ji’s servants.  It was by his blessing that the light illuminated.  I do Simran of his name.  He was the greatest in the world.  For this reason, you are worthy of being bowed to.  You are bowing to my feet; this is not right.  The Seva of your feet should be done.  I am your child.  Bless me.”  Baba Mohri ji folded his hands and said: “it is right for me to bow to your feet.  In my last birth I was Akroor (the Chacha of Krishan ji) and was at your feet when you were Krishan (referring to the light of Akaal Purakh that was in all of the Avatars), the omniscient one.  You protected me then, when my son Shatrajit made a mistake (Shatrajit received a Mani from Surya who refused to give it to Krishan ji.  Shatrajit’s brother took the Mani and was killed while hunting.  Shatrajit blamed his brother’s death on Krishan.  The Mani came to Jaamvant who Krishan ji fought with to get the Mani back).  Please forgive me for my mistake in my last birth.  If we are separated now, we will not meet again.  Make me yours and protect me in the afterlife.  Take me to Sach Khand as well.”  Guru ji said: “you will be one with me in Sach Khand.  We are the same.  You are the son of Guru Amardas ji and you obeyed him.  You obeyed him and stayed humble.  You have been forgiven since then.  You will always be with me.” 

Guru ji was happy and went with Baba Mohri ji to the house.  Guru ji met his aunt, the wife of Baba Mohri ji.  She was old but she got up to meet Guru ji with enthusiasm.  She hugged him and kissed his forehead.  Guru ji bowed to his Mammiji.  Mammiji gave him a blessing and circumvented money around his head.  She took clothes and donated them to the poor.  She asked Guru ji how he was: “is Ganga ji well?  Your son, Hargobind ji, is he happy?  Is everyone well?  Are you well?”  Guru Arjan Dev ji responded: “by your blessing, everyone is well.  You give us blessings by which we are in joy.”  Mammiji heard this and spoke in love: “Guru Ramdas ji and Bibi Bhaani ji used to live here.  It was a happy time then.  Since Bibi Bhaani ji left this world, you have forgotten us.  You’ve never sent a message or letter to us.  Did you not think of us?  It’s like you have let us go.”  Mammiji began to cry after saying this and remembering the past.  She continued: “the whole family was together then.  You have come after a long time.  Guru ji, the gem of the Bhallas, when he was here, everyone lived in the same house.  Now, we wonder when we would see everyone again.  The past will not return.  I have met you after so many years.”  Mammiji spoke and kept shedding tears.  Guru Arjan Dev ji began to shed tears as well, listening to his Mammiji.  Guru ji shed tears like a man caught in attachment.  He had to act like a normal man while being in the state of Brahmgyaan.  There were tears in his eyes and he took a deep breath.  He was the form of love.  Baba Mohri ji was sitting by and said: “why are you crying?  The world is a mela like canoes passing in the river.  Meeting and separation are inevitable.  This is how destiny is, we are all caught in its control.  Our father was the form of Prabhoo and so was the father of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They have gone to their real home, Sach Khand.  Don’t cry while thinking about them.  The ones who follow their mind and do not do Simran, you should cry for those people.  Don’t cry for Brahmgyaanis.  Those who rejected Dharma, had no Bhagti, did not do the Simran of Prabhoo, did not do Seva of the Satguru, did not have the words of the Satguru engraved in their heart, were stuck in the world and collected money, did not go to the Teeraths, did not do Tapasya and spoke lies, they should be thought about and cried over.  Those who did not do Satsang or Seva, were full of ego, were not filled with compassion, did not donate, think of them.  Those who meet with bad company and gather vices, forgot Satnam from their heart, did not follow the Panth, think of them.”  In this way, Baba Mohri ji spoke to his wife.  He continued: “just as straws of hay separate in the water, that is how our bodies are.  Everyone is bound to their destinies.  That is how they meet and separate.  Listen to me, wise woman, let go of your pain.”  Baba Mohri ji’s words were like the sun that got rid of the darkness.  Everyone sat around with patience and talked about their families. 

The son of Baba Mohri ji, Baba Anand ji, came to see Guru Arjan Dev along with Baba Arjani Mal ji and Baba Arth Mal ji.  Baba Sansram ji (son of Baba Mohan ji) came as well.  They all bowed to Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They were the cousins of Guru ji.  Guru ji gave Baba Anand ji a lot of respect.  Baba Anand ji was older than Guru ji.  Guru ji had him sit next to him.  The whole family was happy to meet Guru ji.  Food was prepared.  A special stool was placed for Guru Arjan Dev ji to sit on.  Many types of delicacies were prepared and placed in front of Guru ji in a big plate.  Baba Mohri ji sat there with his hands folded and spoke with great respect.  He was taking in the presence of Guru ji with faith and devotion.  The whole family ate together after Guru ji ate.  At night, Guru ji’s bed was set inside the Chabarra Sahib, where he was born.  It was a beautiful bed.  Guru ji went to sleep at night.

Guru Arjan Dev ji woke at Amritvela and bathed at Baoli Sahib.  He recited Sri Japji Sahib and thought of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Guru ji took Baba Mohri ji along with his family, the Sangat that came with Guru ji as well as the Sangat of Goindwal, and headed towards the beautiful shores of the Beas.  The flow of the river was nice and pure.  Birds were bathing in the river and singing their songs.  Guru ji saw the two resting places (Guru Amar Das ji’s and Guru Ramdas ji’s), that stood like lotus flowers.  They looked like mushrooms in the month of Bhadron (August/ September).  When Guru ji saw the resting places of his father and his grandfather, his eyes filled with tears.  His body was filled with love.  The whole Sangat had tears in their eyes.  Guru ji went close to the place of Guru Amardas ji and bowed with his hands folded.  Guru ji did a parkarma of the building and put the dirt of the place on his forehead.  Guru Arjan Dev ji had Karah Prashaad prepared and distributed after doing Ardaas.  Guru Arjan Dev ji set up a Divaan there at the shore.  Guru Arjan Dev ji spoke to Baba Sundar ji: “oh wise one, you have seen everything.  When Sri Guru Amardas ji gave the Tilak to my father and went to Sach Khand, tell me what happened then.”  Baba Sundar ji heard the words of Guru Arjan Dev ji and composed the “Sadh” (a poetic measure sung in a stretched voice) and sung it out to Guru ji and the Sangat.  Guru Arjan Dev ji loved it and had it scribed.  Guru ji said: “I will include this in the Granth Sahib ji.  Whoever recites this Bani during the time of death, their pain will go away.”  Guru ji then went to the resting place of Guru Ramdas ji.  Guru ji bowed there and had Karah Prashaad distributed there as well.  He thought of his father, which gave him joy.  He shed tears from his eyes as he stood there.  Guru ji completed all of the traditions in their commemoration and then went to the house again.  He had food there after sitting down.  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji was the most compassionate. 

3-37 Meeting Baba Dhatu ji in Khadoor Sahib

Baba Mohri ji and the rest of the family, along with other Sikhs were sitting with Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They were all filled with joy.  Guru ji smiled and said: “Mammaji, please give me permission to go back to Amritsar.  My task is complete by your blessing.  I have the Bani of the four Gurus now.  It will be compiled together in one place.  People will recite and listen to it.  They will receive Gyaan and be blessed by thinking of the translations.  I got to meet elder Mammaji with love.  I got to meet you as well, which was very beneficial.  You are the support of the whole family.  I was really happy to meet the whole family.  I visited the resting places of the 2 Gurus and I bathed at the Baoli Sahib.  I am in bliss.”  Baba Mohri ji heard this and folded his hands.  He said: “you are the Guru on the Gurta Ghaddi, so you are the highest.  You are radiant everywhere and worshipped by all.  Please live here and be happy.  We will all get to be with you and be happy.  The Sangat can come here to meet you and have their sins washed away.”  Guru ji replied: “I am always bound by your command but I want to tell you one reason why I can’t live here: your father, Guru Amardas ji, told my father to go and do the Kar of the Amritsar Sarovar.  He also wanted my father to build the Harmandhir Sahib.  We are all the servants of the elder Guru.  His command cannot be reversed.  He told my father to go and live in Amritsar.  I took over the Seva after Pithaji.  Other Sarovars are being made as well.  For this reason, it’s important for me to live in Amritsar as it is the command of Guru Amardas ji.  There is no difference between here and there.  Both are places of the Guru with the same colour.  This is my request but I can’t disobey you.”  Baba Mohri ji understood that Guru Arjan Dev ji had a lot of tasks to do in Amritsar.  He said to Guru ji: “what you have said is true.  I still want you to stay three nights here.  We would all be happy then.  You can go then as you wish.  You can bathe here and go.”  Guru ji accepted Baba Mohri ji’s request and stayed.  He was pulled by Baba ji’s Seva wishes. 

Guru ji discussed Akaal Purakh and Bhagti conversations with Baba Mohri ji.  Guru ji answered everyone’s questions about Bhagti and Vairagya.  After pleasing everyone for three days, Guru ji asked for leave: “Mammaji, please give me permission to leave now.  I wish to go to Amritsar.  I stayed here according to your wishes.”  Baba Mohri ji said: “you may do as you wish.  Tell me, when will you come back?”  Guru ji responded: “when you remember me, I will come.  I am under your command.  You are wise.  I will come and visit you again.”  Guru ji’s Mammiji spoke as well: “give Ganga ji my Ram Sat greetings and love to Sri Hargobind ji.  Give everyone my well wishes.  When you set your son’s wedding, I would be excited to come.”  Guru ji responded: “very well.”  Guru ji went outside the house and visited the Chabarra Sahib again, where Guru Amardas ji did Tapasya.  Guru ji said to Baba Mohri ji: “please bring a palanquin which is new.”  Baba Mohri ji presented a new palanquin.  Guru Arjan Dev ji placed the Pothis of the 4 Gurus into the palanquin.  The Sikhs happily raised the palanquin and blew many conches.  Napheeryas, dhundhabs and Jaikaras sounded all around.  The Pothis of the 4 Gurus were headed to Amritsar.  Guru ji did not wear any shoes and walked behind the Pothis with his hands folded.  He cemented the hierarchy of Gurbani by walking barefoot behind the Pothis.  Baba Mohri ji and other Sikhs said to Guru ji: “please board the other Palanquin and travel in peace.”  Guru ji said: “the Pothis are the form of the 4 Gurus.  No amount of respect will be enough for them.  Whoever has respect and devotion for Gurbani, they will be happy in this world and in the next world.  Their troubles and pain will be destroyed.”

For 3 km Baba Mohri ji and the Bhallas travelled with Guru Arjan Dev ji to see him off.  Guru Arjan Dev ji then said to the Bhallas and the Sangat of Goindwal: “go back home now.  We will travel on from here.”  He bowed to Baba Mohri ji and repeatedly asked him to head back.  Guru ji took leave from them with great respect.  As Baba Mohri ji and the Sangat of Goindwal left, Guru ji and the Sangat that came from Amritsar continued, playing the conches and the Dhundhabs.  They celebrated as they walked back.  They soon reached Khadoor Sahib, the place of Guru Angad Dev ji, as it was on the way back to Amritsar.  Guru Arjan Dev ji bowed to the place where Guru Angad Dev ji’s final resting place was.  It was the old house of the Julahas, where Guru Amardas ji tripped over the stud.  That stud had become a flourished plant by this time.  Guru Arjan Dev ji did parkarma of the place 4 times and distributed Karah Prashaad.  He thought of Guru Angad Dev ji and sang his praises.  He spoke the history of the area.  He visited the stud that was now a flourishing Kareer that touched Guru Amardas ji’s foot.  He did 4 parkarmas of the Kareer and told the Sangat the history of the place. 

The son of Guru Angad Dev ji, Baba Dhatu ji, found out that Guru Arjan Dev ji had arrived in Khadoor Sahib.  He came to meet Guru Arjan Dev ji.  He came with a newfound love to meet Guru ji.  Guru Arjan Dev ji got up to meet Baba Dhatu ji with respect.  Baba Dhatu ji placed his head on Guru ji’s feet but Guru ji stopped him and said: “don’t do this.”  Guru ji bowed to Baba Dhatu ji and had him sit beside him with respect.  Guru ji said: “you are the son of my Guru’s Guru’s Guru.  I am your servant.  I should be serving your feet.  I am under your command.”  Baba Dhatu ji folded his hands and said: “please listen to my history: my ego was broken.  I was waiting for you to come.  When Guru Amar ji became the Guru, I was extremely jealous.  His greatness was like fire and my mind was a piece of dry grass.  Sangat from many places came to Guru Amardas ji and brought him gifts.  Their wishes were all fulfilled.  When he was here, he left here because I was in pain.  He settled in Goindwal but then the Sangat started to go there to Goindwal.  One Khatri friend of mine came to me and gave me bad advice.  He said to me: “you are the son of the Guru but nobody comes to your home.  No Sangat comes and no one brings money.  Nobody bows to you.  You are like a poor person.  You don’t make any efforts.  If you will be lazy, what will you do?  Some other Khatri came and became the Guru.  He makes people worship him.  He used to be the servant of your home.  Now he lives like kings and everyone worships him.  You are like the living dead, who nobody thinks of.  You are useless.  Why don’t you go and take what is yours?  He has taken your right and has the money.”  My heart was already like a snake, but my friend fired me up.  I was awoken to bite Guru Amardas ji.  I made an effort to hurt him.  My corrupts friend’s words made piercings in my heart.  I was hurt and lost my patience.  I was burning in anger like a dry piece of grass.  Ghee was put on my fire.  Being in the company of corrupt people, calm people become corrupt as well.  I lost my mind and started off towards Goindwal.  I saw Guru Amardas ji in his court in the afternoon.  The Sangat was listening to him.  He was the sun of Gyaan.  There was a great radiance on his face.  Sangat was sitting around him like great virtues.  Darkness and ignorance did not come near him.  There were no vices.  Some came to bow to him and some presented their gifts.  Some Sikhs were placing there wishes to the Guru, some were asking for salvation.  Some Sikhs recited and thought about Gurbani.  The Rababis were singing.  Some were standing and doing Ardaas.  There was joy everywhere.  Guru Amardas ji’s radiance was bright.  I was jealous and got angrier.  I went through everyone and came straight to Guru Amardas ji.  I kicked him in the chest as soon as I came up to him.  I spoke harsh words and swore at him.  He was old and I was young.  Guru Amardas ji fell off his seat.  The whole Sangat said “hai!”  The Sikhs picked up Guru ji and had him sit on his seat.  As soon as he got up, he grabbed my foot and began to massage it.  Guru Amardas ji said to me: “my body parts are hard as I’ve done Seva of the Guru my whole life.  You are soft as you have been sitting all your life.  You are soft life the lotus.  Your foot must be in pain by kicking my hard body.  It is my fault.  I should have gotten up when I saw the son of the Guru come towards me.  You did good by scolding me.  I am the Servant of your home.  You are the son of my Guru.  You are wise.  Tell me what Seva should I do for you.  I am the servant and you are the son of the Guru.  I see you as the same as my Guru.  Let go of your anger and forgive me.  I am a Sadhoo servant.  See me as the servant of your servants.  You have been forgiving me in the past.  You saw me as one of your own, that’s why you scolded me.  My wisdom is compromised.”  I listened to Guru Amardas ji but I was not ashamed.  I said to Guru Amardas ji: “this is what you deserve.  You are a fake.  I can’t see you as the Guru.  Stop doing this.  I can’t take this.  Leave this place and go somewhere else.  Don’t sit on the throne.  You were a fraud and did my father’s Seva by showing humility.  My father was naïve and gave you the Gurta Ghaddi.  He couldn’t see your fraud.  This power that you have, you cheated it from my father by faking it.  You are now pretending to be the Guru.  How can you take what is mine?  I can’t tolerate this.  If you want what is good for you, leave from here.  If you don’t listen to me, you will have to be in pain.”  Guru Amardas ji heard me and spoke with love: “I will do as you say.  I will obey you.  I am your servant.  Let go of your anger.  Be happy with me.”  He folded his hands after saying this.”

Kavi Santokh Singh ji says this in this way. 

3-38 Baba Dhatu ji’s Leg pain is gone

Baba Dhatu ji continues: “in the middle of the night, Guru Amardas ji left Goindwal.  He didn’t take anything with him.  He just had the clothes on his back.  He left without his shoes.  He was thinking of where to go, where nobody can come to see him.  He wanted to do Tapasya.  He didn’t want to speak to anyone nor fight with anyone.  I wanted to stay alone and do Simran.  He felt that living with people, Simran was difficult.  Guru Amardas ji went to Baasarke village.  With his power, he reached Baasarke.  There was a small barn there.  He put a board up which said: “whoever opens this door, will be punished.  That person will not be my Sikh.  I will not support that person in the afterlife or this world.”  He posted the sign and entered the barn.  He sat down in the Padamasana and connected in the Samadhi of Akaal Purakh.

In the morning, the Sangat woke up and came to see Guru ji but he was not there.  Nobody in Goindwal could find him.  I found out that Guru Amardas ji disappeared.  I was happy to hear that he was gone so I could become the Guru.  I thought I would get everything now.  I had ego and started to wear expensive clothes and jewellery.  I started to sit on my father’s throne.  I thought people would worship me.  I waited but nobody came to bow to me.  I got no money and none of my wishes were fulfilled.  If someone came here by accident, they would see me and leave without meeting me.  Nobody saw me as the Guru.  Nobody is worshipped without virtues, no one is respected without knowledge and Vidya.  Without valour, victory is not achieved; without stillness, Dyaan is not possible.  Without contentment, peace and joy is not achieved.  Without Tapasya, kingdoms are not achieved.  Without the Satguru, Gyaan is not achieved; praises are not achieved without shyness.  One cannot cross oceans without ships.  Without love, Bhagti is useless.  Without poetry, praises cannot be sung; without donations, one is not praised.  Without Prabhoo’s blessing, Mukti is not achieved.  Without being on key, one cannot sing.  Without virtues, one is not blessed; Seva cannot be done without devotion.  Without a Mantra being practiced, Jap does not happen; without the ability to give boons, a Devata cannot be a Devata.  One cannot cross this world ocean without Sikhi.  The Day cannot exist without the sun.  I thought about all of this.  Nobody was going to bow to me.  Everyone was annoyed with me.  I was annoyed of them.  Only the Guru would be worshiped.  Without power, nobody will worship me.  I looted the house of Guru Amardas ji.  I brought the money and the expensive stuff.  I had a few servants with me.  I was happy.  I thought I was going to be great.  I came to Khadoor Sahib just before nightfall.  As I was on my way, the sun was set.  I was still a ways away from Khadoor Sahib with the sun set.  I was faced with a party of thieves.  The thieves wanted to kill me and my servants ran away.  I spoke out of fear: “why do you want to kill me?  If you want money, take the stuff I have.”  They took all my stuff and didn’t let me speak further.  They took my clothes as well.  I was upset and reached home.  My mind was worried.  I figured out that I made a grave mistake.  The ones who disrespect saints are never happy.  If one pulls the root of a tree, how can one eat its fruits?  If one breaks his/her canoe, how can one get across the river.  If a person destroys his home and lives in the jungle, how would they be considered wise?  I lost everything and was worried.  I was upset and couldn’t tell anyone.  Since then, my leg has been hurting.  It felt like my bone was ripping apart.

The Sangat was looking for Guru ji.  They went to Baba Bhudda ji, who found a way to find Guru ji.  He sent the horse of Guru ji to find him.  After Guru ji came back, he sat on the Guru Ghaddi again.  Everyone was happy again.  The pain in my leg was horrible but I didn’t tell anyone.  I was embarrassed to go back to Guru Amardas ji.  A corrupt person is always in pain.  They can’t go to saints either.  I have felt this pain for a long time.  When Guru Amardas ji was about to go to Sach Khand after 22 years, I let go of my pride and went to go see him.  I stood in front of him and folded my hands.  I said: “I am guilty.  Please forgive me.  I have come to ask for forgiveness.  I have suffered a lot.  Saints and hatred are never together.  It is like a line in the water.  Love in a saint’s heart is a line on a rock.  I am unwise who has come to your sanctuary.”  Guru ji heard me and said: “Guru Ramdas ji will sit on the throne after me.  His son, Guru Arjan Dev ji, the treasure of virtues, will be the Guru after him.  When he comes to Khadoor Sahib, he will meet you.  He will see the pain in your leg and cure it.”  I heard Guru ji and came home.  I have been waiting for you ever since.  I was wondering when I would see you and my leg would be fixed.  You have now come, welcome.  Please cure me.  You are Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Angad Dev ji, Guru Amardas ji and Guru Ramdas ji.  Please let me bow to your feet.  Let me bow to you.  I am your servant.”  Guru Arjan Dev ji heard Baba Dhatu ji and said: “as you wish.  I am your servant.  You are the elder.  I can’t stop anything you do.  You are the son of the elder Guru.  You are great and wise.”  Baba Dhatu ji folded his hands and then grabbed Guru Arjan Dev ji’s feet.  Guru Arjan Dev ji put his right hand on Baba Dhatu ji’s leg.  The pain from many years was gone in an instant.  It had been hurting for 50 years.  It was finally gone.  Baba Dhatu ji was really happy.  He praised Guru ji.  The sun had set and the family of Baba Dhatu ji prepared Langar for Guru ji and the Sangat.  Everyone talked about Bhagti, Gyaan, Bigyaan, and Vairagya.  Keertan continued into the night.  Guru ji talked about the temporary world and how the Aatma sees everything.  He talked about the truth and identifying the false in this world.  He clarified everything for the Sangat.  He talked about the drama that Parmatma had prepared. 

A beautiful bed was laid for Guru ji at night time.  Guru ji slept the night and woke up at Amritvela.  He bathed and went to Baba Dasoo ji’s home, the other son of Guru Angad Dev ji.  Baba Dasoo ji would stay in his home sitting in Samadhi.  He was just like Baba Mohan ji who loved to stay in Samadhi.  He was connected to the form of Akaal Purakh.  He did not like to deal with the world, nor did he know about the world.  Baba Dhatu ji shook Baba Dasoo ji to wake him up.  When Baba Dasoo ji heard Guru Arjan Dev ji’s name, he opened his eyes.  He saw Guru Arjan Dev ji and bowed to his feet.  Guru ji bowed to Baba Dasoo ji’s feet as well.  The old Baba Dasoo ji tried to stop Guru Arjan Dev ji; he bowed to Guru ji instead.  Baba Dasoo ji said: “I was in a deep Samadhi.  The form that I would think of, the form I connected with, you are that same form.  You are the Parmeshwar.  I can see this as soon as I saw you.  You are the Avatar of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  You are the same Jot.  You came to save the people of Kaliyuga.  You have taken on this body to save us all.”  Guru ji responded: “you are the elder.  I am your child.  Please bless me with your divine vision and cut my pain.  You have been still and in Samadhi for a long time.  You are able and complete in every way.  You have all of the powers of Akaal Purakh.  You can do whatever you want in the 14 worlds.  Nobody can reverse your command.”  Baba Dasoo ji then said: “please complete my wish.  I do not wish to live in this body.  I wish to go to Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Please say the words that my wishes would be fulfilled.”  Guru ji said: “your wish will be completed in a few days.  You will go to your father in Sach Khand.  You will be one with the light.  You will leave your body and go to Guru Nanak Dev ji.  You will go to Guru Angad Dev ji, the one who tolerated the intolerable.  You are his son.  I am like your child.  I am your servant.  Teach me the wisdom of the great Path.”  Guru ji bowed to Baba Dasoo ji.  They praised each other, continuously.  Guru ji took leave from Baba Dasoo ji.  Baba Dhatu ji said to Guru ji with his hands folded: “this is your home.  This is like Amritsar as well.  I will get to see you and be in peace if you stay here.  You are the treasure of Gyaan.”  Guru ji said: “this place is the same as Amritsar.  I will come here again.” 

Guru ji then got ready to go.  The Pothis were placed in the Palanquin.  The Chaurs were waived over the Pothis and the Raagis did Keertan as they travelled.  The conches were blown along with the Dhundhabs.  Whoever heard them was in joy.  The Sangat showered flowers onto the Pothis.  Shehnais were played and the Sangat did Jaikaras.  Incense was burned and Shabads of joy were sang.  Satguru ji walked behind the palanquin, bare foot.  Baba Dhatu ji travelled 3 km to see Guru ji off.  Guru Arjan Dev ji then said: “it is time for you to return.  Your wishes have all been fulfilled.  Take your Sangat back now.  See me as your servant and remember me.”  Guru ji and Baba Dhatu ji bowed to each other and took leave with love.  Baba Dhatu ji was really calm now.  He returned to Khadoor Sahib.  He felt like he met the 4 Gurus today.  He thought about Guru Arjan Dev ji’s young age and how powerful he was.  He saw his humility after being omnipotent.  Guru Arjan Dev ji continued behind the palanquin without shoes.  Guru ji waived the Chaur himself.  The Pothis were in the palanquin, raised by the Sikhs.  There were Chaurs on all four sides of the Pothis.  The conches were played.  The Sikhs sang Keertan and headed north.  Everyone was bowing as the Pothis and Guru ji walked by.  Guru ji was filled with devotion and love towards the Gurbani of the 4 Gurus. 

As the travelling party was about 6 km away from Amritsar, the palanquin was set down so the Sikhs could clean up.  It was late afternoon at that time.  Everyone bathed and changed their clothes.  They were preparing to enter Amritsar with great respect.  It was a great task that was completed.  When the travelling party entered Sri Amritsar Sahib, the conches were blown louder along with the Napheeryas and Dhundhabs. 

3-39 Arrival in Amritsar/ Finding a place of Solitude

Guru ji and the Sangat had rested 6 km away from Amritsar.  They rested for a about an hour.  Guru Arjan Dev ji sat down with his eyes closed.  He sat in Samadhi as his body was completely still.

The news spread in Amritsar that Guru ji had arrived close to Amritsar.  Sri Hargobind ji, the beautiful one, was happy that his father had arrived.  His face blossomed like the lotus flower.  His eyes were gleaming.  The news was like sun rays that made his eyes bloom.  Baba Bhudda Sahib ji was happy to hear the news as well as Bhai Gurdas ji.  All of the Sikhs in Amritsar were happy.  The task that Guru ji went for, he had succeeded.  Mata Ganga ji was really happy to hear this as well: “Guru ji has brought the Pothis of the Gurus in a palanquin.  Guru ji walked barefoot.”  Everyone made preparations and lit incenses.  They took garlands of flowers and went to receive Guru ji.  Sandalwood was burned along with other essences.  They took Karah Prashaad and sweets along with them.  Sri Hargobind ji was with them as well.  They were like fish caught in the web of Guru ji’s love.  The people of Amritsar had heard the news and went to receive Guru ji as well.  Many of these Sikhs used to see Guru ji everyday but did not get to see him for the past few days.  They went with great enthusiasm and ran towards Guru ji.  They all saw and met Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They all bowed to his feet along with Sri Hargobind ji.  The ones who brought gifts, such as sweets, money and flowers, placed them at Guru ji’s feet.  Everyone’s eyes were gleaming, seeing Guru ji.  It was like the lotus blooming seeing the sun.  Guru Arjan Dev ji took Sri Hargobind ji in his lap and hugged him.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji came.  Guru ji asked them how they were and they answered with their hands folded: “by your blessings, we are well.  There is always bliss in your home.”  The Sikhs brought incense and sandalwood along with flowers.  The Sikhs showered flowered on the Pothis and blew the conches.  They lit incense and worshipped the Pothis as per Guru Arjan Dev ji’s instructions.  The arriving Sangat and the receiving Sangat met by doing Keertan.  They were all happy to see each other.

Everyone then continued to do Keertan and headed towards Amritsar Sahib.  The Chaurs were waived on the Pothis.  It was about 2 hours till sunset when the Sangat met in Amritsar.  Dhundhabs, Napheeryas and conches were sounded.  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji and Sri Hargobind ji were walking with the Pothis.  It was like Brahma, Vishnu, Inder and others establishing the tradition of respecting the Vedas.  With great enthusiasm, they entered Amritsar Sahib.  Many flower garlands were placed on the palanquin.  Flowers were showered on top with sandalwood essences.  The Sangat shouted out Jaikaras and came near the Sarovar.  They stood near the eastern side of the Sarovar now known as Tharra Sahib.  The palanquin was set down with respect.  Guru Sahib and the Sangat all sat down.  The beggars were given many donations.  They received what they asked for.  A great crowd gathered at Guru ji’s house.  Karah Prashaad was distributed which made everyone happy.  It was a very happy occasion that the Bani of the 4 Gurus had come to Amritsar. 

Guru ji held the evening Divaan in the presence of the Pothi Sahibs.  It was the place of Athsath Teerath.  Baba Bhudda ji was asked to lead the Sangat to do Keertan all night.  He was asked to do Simran of Satnam, all night long.  The master, Guru Arjan Dev ji and Sri Hargobind ji bowed their heads.  They then came to the Darshani Deodi and bowed.  They then went to the Harmandhir Sahib and did 4 Parkarmas of Harmandhir Sahib to thank Guru Ramdas ji.  Guru ji stood inside Harmandhir Sahib and folded his hands.  He bowed and then came back to his home.  Sri Hargobind ji was with him, who walked slowly to their home. 

The servants and maids of Guru ji’s home came outside and bowed to Guru ji.  Guru ji asked how everyone was and went inside the home.  Mata Ganga ji got up and bowed to her husband’s feet.  Guru ji sat on his seat with his son.  It was like Dashrath and Ram Chander ji sitting on the seat.  Guru ji told Mata Ganga ji about his travels, meeting the elder Bhallas and Trehans, and how he came home.  Mata Ganga ji was happy to hear and then prepared food for Guru ji.  She sat by and fanned Guru ji as he ate.  She cooked the food herself for her husband, seeing him as the master of the universe.  Guru ji then laid down on his bed to sleep.  Sri Hargobind ji laid down on the bed nearby.

Guru ji woke up at Amritvela and did his cleansing routines.  He bathed at the well and then came to the Dukh Bhanjani Beri.  He then bathed in the Sarovar.  He went to the Tharra Sahib and sat down in Samadhi.  He connected with the Sat, Chetan and Anand form.  He was the Anand form himself.  The sun came up and the birds began to sing.  Guru ji opened his eyes and noticed that the day was here.  Guru ji got up and did the big Parkarmas of the Sarovar.  He then came to the Darshani Deodi and bowed his head.  He then crossed the bridge to the Harmandhir Sahib and did 4 Parkarmas there.  Guru ji then came back to the Athsath Teerath and sat down.  He looked like Shiva sitting in the Kailash Mountain.  The Sikhs sat around him, looking like Devatas.  A Divaan was in progress.  Guru ji was sitting in the middle and spoke: “listen to me carefully, Bhai Gurdas ji, there is a great effort in what I am about to tell you that will give peace and joy to the whole world: you are wise and know Gurbani; I am giving you the duty to scribe the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The ones who are not wise and do not have the strength of the mind to do Tapp or yagna; cannot control their mind or keep their desires in control, you will make a bridge for these people to cross this world.  This world is an ocean of fire.  It is deep.  Guru Granth Sahib ji will be the bridge which will help these people across.  Concentrate and work on this task.  Millions will be saved by this effort.  The saints who come to earth, their mission is to help people cross this world successfully.  Find a place where there would be solitude.  It should be beautiful, green and joyful.  Water should be nearby with a nice shade.  There should be trees with green leaves.”  Bhai Gurdas ji responded: “oh gracious Guru, the place which pleases you, that will be the best place.  That would be the place where a lot of people won’t come.” 

Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji got up and began to find a place where Guru Granth Sahib ji would be scribed.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji went with him.  Other senior Aatam Gyani Sikhs went with Guru ji as well.  Guru ji headed towards the east of the Amritsar Sarovar.  Guru ji was always thinking well for everyone.  For a while, Guru ji walked but did not find a place to sit.  Guru ji looked into the distance and saw Pippal trees.  There were a lot of trees there.  Guru ji saw lush and green leaves on the trees.  Many Beri trees could be seen which had green leaves.  There was a group of trees which gave a steady shade.  Jhand trees were close by with Kareer trees.  The leaves were moving with the wind blowing.  It was a very nice and pleasant place.  The shade was nice and cool.  Greenery can be seen all around.  The greenery was new, without thorns.  There was a little pond nearby.  Guru ji liked this place.  Sri Guru ji saw this place and said to Bhai Gurdas ji: “this place is like the Panchvati (where Ram Chander ji lived in his exile).  The land is even and filled with grass.  There are many trees here.  This is the place where I wish to sit.  Call the servants and have a tent set up.  There is solitude here.  There is no noise here.”  Bhai Gurdas ji said: “the place which pleases you is the best.  I like this place as well.  There is water, nice land and the place is good to sit.  You have called this place Panchvati, so this place will be holy.  Whoever comes here will receive the rewards of coming here.”  The tents were called and set up as per Guru ji’s instructions.  Guru ji said: “I am going back to Amritsar, make sure the place is prepared well.  When I come back here, the tents should be put up.”  Guru ji gave out his commands and came back home.  The Guru which wanted to give joy to his Sikh, came back home. 

3-40 Ram Sar

Bhai Gurdas ji called some servants and got them working as per Guru ji’s commands.  He had them clean the area and level it.  Many Sikhs and servants were working.  There was greenery all around.  Tents were set up with ropes.  There was a pond nearby at a lower elevation.  The tents were set up very strong and sturdy.  Water with rose essences was sprinkled all around so the dust does not fly.  Sandalwood essences were also sprinkled.  The whole place had a pleasant fragrance.  Flowering plants were planted all around the area to make the place even more pleasant.  The plants had different colours.  Thorns and dried up plants were removed.  The tent for Guru ji had mats and carpets laid out.  There was a canopy set up for Guru ji to sit under.  The canopy and golden strands hanging from it.  The canopy was made of silk with gold thread work on it.  Many other colourful cloths were hung in the tent.  Two silver maces were set near Guru ji’s throne which had golden orbs on top of them.  A beautiful court was set for Guru ji to work in.  It was a pleasant and attractive sight that was set up.  Some people were left in the area for security.  Bhai Gurdas ji went to tell Guru ji that the place was ready.

Guru Arjan Dev ji was sitting with the Pothis with respect.  He sat with the Pothis and held court.  Bhai Gurdas ji came and said: “the place is ready, Guru ji.  It is beautiful now.  Plants are planted and the tent is set.”  Guru ji heard this and prepared the palanquin and placed the Pothis in them to go from Tharra Sahib to Ram Sar Sahib.  There was a canopy on top of the palanquin with Chaurs all around them.  The chaurs looked like swans flying above pearls.  Incense was lit, garlands of flowers were placed on the palanquins.  Rababs, Mridangs and conches were sounded with dhundhabs and napheeryas.  The Sikhs did jaikaras.  The Sikhs celebrated as they travelled with Guru ji.  The Sikhs were filed with love who sprinkled rose and sandalwood essences everywhere. 

The Pothis reached the place.  Guru ji saw the place and noticed the nice smell everywhere.  Everyone was happy to see the place.  The Pothis were placed under the canopy within the tent.  Bhai Gurdas ji was happy.  Guru ji was happy with Bhai Gurdas ji.  Guru ji sat down and a Divaan began.  Guru ji sat as Keertan was played.  There was a pond nearby which Guru ji noticed and said: “for the good of all, a Sarovar should be made here.  Whoever removes the dirt from this area, the amount of dirt taken out will correspond with the amount of dirt wash away from their minds.  The ones who do Seva of Teeraths, they are blessed in both worlds.”  The Sangat heard Guru ji and got up right away.  They wanted to wash the vices from their minds.  For 3 hours the Sikhs dug the Sarovar.  A small Sarovar was formed.  Guru ji stopped everyone in the evening and said: “that is good enough.  This will be a small Sarovar.”  The Sangat said to Guru ji: “Satguru ji, this is a small and beautiful Sarovar, what would you like to name this Teerath?”  Baba Bhudda ji was asked by Guru ji: “what shall we name this Teerath?  The name should be great.  The dirt of the Sikhs will be washed away here.”  Baba Bhudda ji said: “you are omnipotent and omniscient.  You know the past, present and future.  There is no one greater than you to name this place.”  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji said: “Ram lived in Panchvati.  Guru Ramdas ji’s name, Akaal Purakh, lives here.  The true Ram lives here.  Guru Granth Sahib ji will be scribed here.  The name and named are no different.  This place shall be known as Sri Ram Sar Sahib.  Bathing here will wash all the sins away.”  The Sangat was really happy to hear the name.  They all folded their hands and bowed their heads.  Guru ji said a Shabad to commemorate this:

Sri Mukhvaak.. Gauri Mahalla 5..

Everyday, take a bath in the Ram Sar..  Carefully drink the nectar Amrit..1.. Rahao..

The name of Akaal Purakh is the pure water..  By bathing here, all wishes are granted, all tasks are fulfilled..1..

In the society of Saints, conversations of Akaal Purakh occur..  The sins of millions of births are washed away..2..

The saints do Simran and are filled with bliss..  Their minds and bodies are immersed in bliss..3..

The ones who achieved the treasure of the feet of Akaal Purakh.. The servant, Nanak, is a sacrifice unto them ..4..95..164..

(SGGS 198)

“Whoever reads this Shabad while bathing here, they will receive many rewards.”  The Sangat heard this and were really happy.  They bowed to Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji then said: “it is now evening, Go with Sri Hargobind ji and live in the city with peace.  Go and do Keertan.”  Bhai Gurdas ji and Baba Bhudda ji stayed with Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Sri Hargobind ji and the Sangat came back home.  They bowed to the young Guru and went to their homes once they arrived in Amritsar. 

Guru Arjan Dev ji stayed in Sri Ram Sar.  Visiting Guru ji makes all the pain go away.  Some Sikhs and servants remained with Guru ji to do Seva.  The Langri made Langar and came to tell Guru ji.  With Guru ji’s permission, the Langri brought delicious food for Guru ji in a big plate.  Guru ji ate Langar and then the other Sikhs ate as well.  After about 2 hours of night, Bhai Gurdas ji came to Guru ji and said: “listen oh gracious one, the forest is really lush here.  The moonlight is not reaching here.  Just as Ram Chander ji lived in the jungle, you are living in the jungle as well.  You liked a place of solitude, that is what you got.  Brahma made this place for you, knowing that you wanted such a place.”  Guru ji said: “Bhai Gurdas ji, the praise of this place is great.  This place will be very radiant.  There will be many progresses here.  Many enemies and sinners will be destroyed here.”  Guru ji said all this to Bhai Gurdas ji and then laid down to rest.  The bedsheets were white with white blankets.  Guru ji was radiant with the white sheets like the moon. 

Guru ji slept the night and woke up at 2:30 am.  He did his morning cleansing routines and took a bath.  Guru ji did the Simran of Guru Nanak Dev ji, connecting with his real form.  When the sun came up, Guru ji opened his eyes from his Samadhi.  Guru ji called Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji and said his graceful wishes to them: “I wish to stay in solitude.  The Sikhs are eager to meet me.  Sahib Bhudda ji, you should go to Amritsar and take the Sangat to Amritsar.  You should look after them.  The Harmandhir Sahib inside the Amritsar Sarovar, go there and recite Gurbani there.  Listen to Keertan there.  Visiting Sri Harmandhir Sahib ji is the same as visiting me.  Do not doubt this.  You should go there and live there yourself.  Keep the Sangat there and take care of them.  Guide them well.  Whatever the Sikhs wish for, give them what they want.  Listen to their Ardaas and fulfill their wishes.  Maintain the traditions and do what I do.  Everything that I do with the Sangat, you should carry on my duties.  Give hope to the Sangat.”  Baba Bhudda ji folded his hands and bowed to Guru ji’s feet, obeying Guru ji’s command. 

Baba Bhudda ji came to Amritsar and gave the Sangat Guru ji’s command.  As Guru ji directed, Baba Bhudda ji did what he was told.  He maintained the traditions of Sri Harmandhir Sahib.  The Sangat bathed in the Amritsar Sarovar and visited Sri Harmandhir Sahib.  They listened to Keertan, sitting inside Harmandhir Sahib.  Baba Bhudda ji would sit in the Divaan with the Sangat.