3-46 Kana, Peelo and other Bhagats come

Bhai Luddha ji went back to Lahore and was well received by his Sangat in Lahore.  The Sikhs came and folded their hands.  They bowed to each other and asked how they were doing.  They asked about Amritsar: “how is Satguru ji blessing the Sikhs in Amritsar?  Where does the Master sit to do Divaan?  How did Guru ji meet you and speak to you?  What commands did he say to you?  Tell us everything.  What was Guru ji wearing when you bowed to him?”  Bhai Luddha ji said: “how many virtues can I recount of Guru Arjan Dev ji?  I only have one tongue that cannot sing the Guru’s praises.  If I had a thousand tongues, that still would not be enough to sing his praises.  Guru ji is deep, like the ocean.  He is patient and calm.  He is handsome and has a radiant personality.  He is blessing thousands in this world.  He has many virtues but one of his virtues makes me sacrifice myself unto him.  He is benevolent.  He is compassionate towards the people of Kaliyuga.  He helps them with his mind, body and wealth.  He established the Amritsar Sarovar in which thousands bathe.  This washes their sins away.  They do Simran of Satnam.  He is collecting all of the Bani of the elder Gurus and making one binding.  He is writing more Shabads and adding it to the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Bani is giving peace to all.  The Bir of Guru Granth Sahib ji will have all the Bani in it.  The Bani blesses all, and will bless all, even after him.  The Bani will destroy attachment, ego and other vices.  He has made a pathway for all the Sikhs.  They will recite the Bani and listen to it; which will purify their minds and take them towards greatness.  The Sikhs do Simran of Satnam and are being blessed.  Guru ji has all the powers.  He is doing a generous and benevolent act for all.  He is adding the Bani of Bhagats in the Guru Granth Sahib ji as well.  The Bhagats come and recite new Bani.  He has organized the Granth in Raags.  He first writes the Guru’s Bani and then the Bhagat’s Bani.  A lot of Bani has been written.  The task is almost done.  Guru ji is making an effort, day and night with this task.”  Bhai Luddha ji told the whole city which made everyone happy.

In Lahore at that time, there were 4 famous Bhagats that lived there.  They were on a good path and everyone respected them.  They were worshiped by the people of Lahore.  There names were Kana, Chajhoo, Shah Hussain and Peelo.  When the news of Guru ji’s compiling the Guru Granth Sahib ji spread in Lahore, these 4 Bhagats heard it as well: “the Bhagats’ Bani was being added as well.”  The Bhagats got worried and thought to themselves: “Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji is on the throne of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji and his praises are spread far and wide.  He is the wisest, Omnipotent, with great patience and full of virtues.  He called other Bhagats for their Bani, why didn’t he call us?”  They wondered why Guru ji didn’t call for them.  They were a little angry.  One day, the four of them got together to discuss this.  They said: “the Guru Granth Sahib is being compiled for the path of Mukti and the Bani of the well-known Bhagats is being added.  This Granth will be known in the world.  It will be praised in the world.  If our names are not written in this Granth, no one will know us after we are gone.  We need to make an effort to have our writings added to the Guru Granth Sahib ji.”  Kana said: “who was it that brought this news?  Ask him first what the truth is.”  Peelo said: “it is a Sikh named Luddha Parupkaari.  He helped two Raagis get forgiveness from Guru ji.  He knows this for sure that the Guru Granth Sahib ji is being written.  He has confirmed all this.”  Shah Hussain said: “let’s call Bhai Luddha and ask him.  He will tell us the whole story.  We will then see what needs to be done.”  Chajhoo sent one of his servants to get Bhai Luddha ji. 

The servant went to Bhai Luddha ji.  When Bhai Luddha ji heard the news of him being called, he immediately came to the Bhagats and bowed to them.  The Bhagats said: “what happened with Satguru ji?  What did you see and hear there?”  Bhai Luddha ji folded his hands and said: “Guru ji is composing Bani and is focusing on this task, day and night.  He is composing beautiful Shabads and Bhai Gurdas ji is writing.  He writes the Bani of the five Gurus and the Bani of the Bhagats is written.  Bhagat Kabeer ji’s Bani and other Bhagats’ Bani is written in various Raags.  They come themselves to Guru ji and compose the Bani.  The Granth is a ship that will take everyone across this world ocean.  Most of the Bani has been written.  There is only a little left.  Only a few days now.”  Kana asked Bhai Luddha ji: “how do the Bhagats come to Guru ji?  Did Guru ji call them or did the Bhagats come by themselves, without an invitation?  Can anyone see them?  Where do they sit?”  Bhai Luddha ji responded: “Guru ji sits in a jungle alone, and writes the Bani.  He started with Sri Raag and then the Bhagats came when he was done the Raag.  The 15 Bhagats came by themselves.  They had a discussion with Guru ji and then Guru ji had them meet Bhai Gurdas ji.  The Bhagats come and Bhai Gurdas ji writes their Bani.  Guru ji sits with them.”  Bhai Luddha ji then left.  The 4 Bhagats then said to each other: “the Bhagats weren’t invited.  We don’t need to be upset.  Let’s go to Guru ji and have our Bani included as well.  We will be known forever.  The wishes of your minds will be known by all.”  They all rested at night.

The next day, Kana got ready and mounted his chariot.  The other 3 Bhagats got ready and started off as well.  They all had a little bit ego in them.  They were Bhagats and did Bhagti but had pride of themselves.  They spent a night on the way and reached Amritsar the next day.  They reached Guru Arjan Dev ji’s court.  Guru ji was seated in the Sri Harmandhir Sahib and illuminating.  Guru ji knew with his divine vision that the 4 Bhagats had come with pride.  Guru ji got up and met them outside.  They all bowed to each other.  Guru Arjan Dev ji respected them and had them sit down.  Guru ji said: “you have been gracious to visit me today.  I am happy.  You are always drenched in the path of Mukti.  Bhagats like you travel only for the purpose of blessing all.  Whoever you meet, their attachment is washed away and they are free form pain.  You bless the ones that come to you.  You have won your vices.  Please tell me your reason for coming here today.”  Kana was the most egotistical.  When he heard his praise, we become prouder of himself.  He said: “we have heard your praises.  There’s a reason why we have come to your home.  We have heard you are compiling the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  You have compiled the Gurbani of 5 Gurus plus the Bani of many Bhagats in Raags.  Those Bhagats’ bodies and homes do not exist in this world now.  People don’t know them much.  Hindus fight about them as well as the Turks.  People don’t know those Bhagats and won’t remember them.  We are alive and in front of you.  People come to visit us as well.  Poor and rich, all know of us.  High and low, all know us four.  People listen to us and bow to our feet.  People take our words like the word of the Vedas.  Our praises our spread in every direction.  Don’t you know about our praises?  You are writing the Bani of the dead Bhagats.  You didn’t ask us.  If you don’t add our Shabads, who will accept your Granth?  Nobody will read, listen or believe in it, if you don’t write our Shabads.  You didn’t do good by not calling us.  You are the Guru of the World.  You should have known about us.”  Guru Arjan Dev ji said: “I have collected all of the Gurbani that was spread out.  The Bhagats came to me to add their Bani.  I told them to recite new Bani according to the Bani of the Gurus.  They then composed new Bani that I have added.  You have come now; you should tell me your Bani.  If it is according to the Bani, then I will add it.”  Kana had the ego of Brahm Gyaan.  He was happy.  He composed a Shabad out of ego.  He thought to himself: “the Guru is on our side.  I am not any smaller.  He does know me.  I will compose Bani which will have Brahm Gyaan in it.  My Bani will be known in the world.”  He composed Bani according to the motto: “Ahung Brahm Asmi” (I am the Brahm).

Kano Vaach..

Ohi ray mai ohi ray, jako bed Puraan sab gaavai khojat khoj na koi ray.

Jako Naarad Saarad sevay, sevay devi deva ray.

Brahma Bishan Mahesh araadhay, sab karde jaki seva ray.

Kahe Kana as mum Saroop hai, apranpar alakh abheva ray..1..

I am that, I am that, which the Vedas and Puranas sing about, by looking they can’t find the end.

Naarad and Sarasvati worship, Devis and Devatas do Seva of.

Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva meditate upon and do Seva of.

Says Kana, I am that form, that which is infinite and cannot be characterized..1..

When Kana spoke his ideology, Guru Arjan Dev ji rejected it right away: “this is not according to the ideology of Gurbani.  If Sikhs would read this, they will get filled with ego.  They will think they are Akaal Purakh and be filled with ego.  It is correct what you are saying, the Aatma is Parmatma but the people of Kaliyuga will see it the wrong way.  Instead of Mukti, they will go to Hell.  For this reason, I can’t add this Shabad.  I will give you some examples: Brahmgyaan is like ghee.  In the Kaph (phlegm and cold) state of Ayurveda, if one eats ghee their phlegm will increase.  The egotistical person is like this.  The ego will grow more.  In the Pith state (fire), full of desires, their fire will grow.  They will get diarrhea (physically by eating ghee).  Spiritually, the Gyaan will make them get more engrossed in their desires, thinking they are Akaal Purakh.  Instead of getting stronger, they will get weaker; instead of Mukti, they will go to Hell.  Ghee makes the ill, more ill.  Instead of peace, they will be in more pain.  Within the Brahm Gyaan, just like ghee, we need to add sweetness like sugar balls to it.  Bhagti and Gyaan need to be together.  Bhagti is the sweetness to the Gyaan.  Humility is the Bhagti.  See yourself as everyone’s servant.  Know in your heart that you are Brahm, but never say it from your mouth.  Hirday Gyaan (knowledge of Brahm in the heart), mukh Bhagti (Simran) and vartan vairagya (live like a visitor in the world) were the 3 things Guru Nanak Dev ji told Guru Angad Dev ji.  Sugar and Ghee are good for all and they will be blessed.  Ahung Brahm is known in the mind but from the mouth, call yourself a servant.  Our ideologies are different.  How can I write this Shabad in the Guru Granth Sahib ji?  Contradictory Shabads cannot be written in one place.  You should write your own Granth.  Humility is the highest in Sikhi.  The humble person can meet the Guru.  The one who is high, will fall by the blowing of the wind.  They will by in trouble.” 

When Kana heard Guru ji’s words, Kana had nothing to say.  He couldn’t think of anything.  He was upset.  His eyes become red with anger.  He said: “you have insulted me in the court in front of everyone.  I came to give you my Bani but you did not respect me.  You debated with me to not write my Shabad.  There is the Gyaan of all the Vedas in my Shabad.  I am going to curse you for not accepting my Bani.  You will be disrespected and will have to endure pain from the Turks.  They will punish you and kill you.  You won’t have your family with you at the time of your death.  The Sikh Sangat will not be with you either.”  Guru ji was calm and thought to himself: “he is angry and cursing me, but this is what is already going to happen.  Akaal Purakh spoke through his mouth to say the future.  First of all, he came with ego and called himself a bigger Bhagat than Bhagat Kabeer ji.  His Shabad was full of ego as well.  He is not calm.  He has become egotistical by listening to the Gyaan of the Vedas.  I didn’t add his Shabad and he got angry.  If I don’t curse him, his ego will grow more.  I can’t stay calm.  People will say the Guru’s house is smaller.  Guru Nanak’s home will be talked bad about.  People’s faith and devotion will be hurt.  He saw Bhagat Kabeer ji and Bhagat Ravidas ji as smaller than him.  He needs to be punished.”  Guru ji then said to Kana: “you will not make it back to Lahore.  Your hatred will give you death.  You will be surprised.”  Kana got angrier and said: “my age will be 500, who can kill me?  No trouble can come near me because I can stop my breaths with Yoga.  Death can’t come near me.  I will sit in a hut and take my breaths to my Dasam Duaar.  Nobody is better than me in Yoga.  Jumms can’t come to me.  Your curse is fruitless.  It will have no consequences.  I will use my Dasam Duaar.”  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji said to him: “the hut that you will sit in, you are proud of your body, that body will break first.  Where will you keep your breaths?  You will die now.  Your time is up.  Be upset from the world and do Bhagti.  Don’t be proud.  Do Ardaas to Akaal Purakh.  Don’t’ be attached to your body.  You are going to separate from it very soon.  You lived your life.  The ego in your mind is a figment of your imagination.”  Guru Arjan Dev ji did not say anything after that.  The Sangat was quiet as well.  Everyone was surprised to hear the curses.  When the words reflect the mind’s thoughts, destiny plays its cards.  The meeting was not a success.

3-47 Kana dies/ Pandits from Kanshi/ Sahaskriti Salok

Guru ji was quiet for some time.  The Sangat was quiet too.  Guru Arjan Dev ji looked towards Peelo (who had written poetry on Mirza as well as spiritual Shabads) and said: “tell me your ideology now.  I want to hear your Shabads so we can get the wisdom of Gurmat.  It should have the Simran of Parmeshwar in it.  One should read it and be connected to Prabhoo.  It should have love and Bhagti in it.”  Peelo heard this and said a Shabad in the court:

Peelo Vaach..

Peelo asaa nalo say bhalay jamdia ju muay..

Ona chickar paav na boriaa na aalood bhae..

Peelo, those are better than me that died as soon as they were born.

They did not dirty their feet in the mud of the world, they were not dirty..

Guru ji said: “I can’t accept this either.  It does not have the wisdom of Bhagti in it.  Sri Kartar’s will is to have people be born.  If everyone is to die, how would that be following Kartar’s will?  Birth and death are on everyone’s head.  You got the life of a human to benefit by doing Simran of Akaal Purakh.  Accept Akaal Purakh’s command and will.  Let go of your ego and conflicts.”  Guru ji looked towards Chajhoo and said: “Chajhoo tell me your ideology as you see it.”  Chajhoo obeyed and made a new Shabad.

Chajhoo Vaach..

Kaaghad Sandhi pootli, taoo na treeyaa nihaar.

Yo hee maar lijaavhee jatha balochan dhaar..

If there is a woman made of paper, do not look towards it.

It will kill you like the Balochi thieves loot and kill you..

Guru ji responded: “Chajhoo Bhagat listen, this ideology does not align with ours.  Listen to our path: our path is to do Satsang and do Simran of Parmeshwar with everyone.  It is with the life of a householder that a person must connect with Akaal Purakh without a gap.  Earn the living of Dharma.  Do Seva of saints with love.  One will cross the world with Prema Bhagti by absorbing the colour of Simran, Satnam.  There is no other way other than the life of a householder.  Staying hungry in the jungle does not work in Kaliyuga.  Some saints live close to villages and cities.  They meet the people of the village and then desires come into their minds.  There are only some that are without desires.  How can one not look at women while living among the people?  The best way is to be married and do Simran of Prabhoo.  One should work themselves for a living and then share it with everyone.  Leave your ego and do Satsangat.  Do Bhagti with love.  Sing the praises of Akaal Purakh.  Without doing Bhagti, there is no other way to be a Brahmgyaani.  Without being in the sanctuary of Sri Prabhoo, there is no other way in Kaliyuga.  For this reason, the way of the Ghristi is the best.  Don’t forget Akaal Purakh while you work.”  Shah Hussain said a Shabad after Guru ji told him to.  Everyone heard him in the court.

Shaho Hussain Baach..

Chup ve araya chup ve araya.

Bolan di nahi jae vay araya. Sujan bolan di jae nahi.

Andar baahar hika saee. Kisnoo aakh sunaee.

Iko dilbar sabh ghat raviaa dooji nahi kadaee.

Kahay Husaain Fakeer nimana Satgur tho bal bal jahi..1..

Stay quiet my friend stay quiet my friend.

There is no place to speak. Oh friend there is no place to speak.

Akaal Purakh is everywhere, whom do I speak to?

There is only one Akaal Purakh in every heart, there is no other place.

Hussain, the humble says, I am a sacrifice to my Satguru.

Guru ji smiled and said: “it is good to be quiet in the mind.  Shah Hussain, don’t speak now.”  Guru ji rejected the three other Bhagats as well.  These three did not argue with Guru ji.  The curses were severe that happened before so the Bhagats were quiet.  They were upset though.  They returned back to Lahore.  They didn’t want to stay in Amritsar any longer.  Things didn’t go their way in front of Guru ji.  They thought to themselves: “it was a mistake to come here.  We were insulted.  We got cursed.  It was better to stay in our homes.  If we didn’t come, we wouldn’t have been upset.”

Kana was in his chariot.  He sat in the Padamasana.  He was an expert in Yoga.  He pulled his breath to his Dasam Duaar.  He wanted to get to Lahore but Guru Arjan Dev ji’s curse scared him.  He didn’t want to die.  As his breath was lifted, he lost awareness of his body.  All four Bhagats were travelling home.  They all saw bad omens on the way.  They knew something bad was going to happen.  They travelled during the day and they reached close to Lahore just before evening.  They were less scared, now that death may not come.  They were happy that Kana may not die now.  The driver of the chariot started to hurry and rode the chariot faster.  As they travelled, a wind storm came.  The wind was severe which uprooted some of the trees.  Pebbles and rocks flew.  People covered their eyes and could no longer see ahead.  People got anxious.  Animals and people couldn’t see.  It became dark.  The horses got scared and headed in the wrong direction.  The driver pulled the reins to control the horses.  He tried to stop them but the horses ran.  The chariot flipped over.  Kana fell towards the front and the wheel came on top of him.  Nobody noticed where Kana had fell.  The wheel rolled over Kana’s head.  His head got squished and his brain squeezed out.  He died instantly.  He didn’t know what happened to his body.  There was no one to save him.  The chariot driver noticed that the bhagat was gone.  He stopped the chariot with great effort.  After a half hour, the storm calmed down.  When the sun came back, they started to look for Kana Bhagat.  They eventually saw Kana Bhagat with his head split open, blood pouring out.  Guru Arjan Dev ji’s words had destroyed Kana.  They all began to shout as they lifted Kana’s body and brought it back to Lahore.  His servants and Sikhs came to get him as well.  Kana had already died.  The other Bhagats and Kana’s servants cremated his body.  His Sikhs said: “what happened to this Saint?  He said his age was going to be 500 years.”  The rest of the Bhagats told them the whole story, how he was cursed by Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Everyone realised how powerful Guru Arjan Dev ji was.  They knew that Guru ji’s words were like Ram Chander ji’s arrows.  His words were irreversible.  Everyone was amazed.  Nobody could face Guru ji.  The immortal Devatas can die and mountains can be moved by Guru ji’s words.  The ocean can be moved up; the strong can be made weak and the Sumer Mountain can become like a mustard seed in front of Guru ji.  The kings become paupers; the warriors become cowards if Guru ji looks with a negative eye towards them. 

In this way, the history of the four bhagats happened.  Guru ji continued to write the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru ji had reached Raag Prabhaati.  Bhai Gurdas ji then wrote the Sahiskriti Saloks, with great joy.  How these Saloks were written, the Katha moves forward.

Two Pandits, Pandit Krishan Lal ji and Pandit Hari Lal ji came from Kanshi.  They were brothers who were great scholars.  They had faith in Guru Nanak Dev ji, as Guru ji had visited their grandfather in Kanshi.  They had a great urge to meet Guru ji, having love and devotion in their hearts.  They had let go of the pleasures of the world and wanted to achieve Brahmgyaan.  They came and bowed to Guru Arjan Dev ji’s feet.  They sat down near Guru ji.  Guru ji gave them a lot of respect and asked them: “oh Brahmins, where are you from?  Where have you visited?  What is your name and what do you do?  You look like wise people.”  The Pandits folded their hands and said: “you are omniscient and know the history.  Since you have asked, we will speak.  We live in Kanshi, near the shores of the Ganga.  We have heard of your praises, oh dispeller of pain, and wanted to come see you.  There was a time when Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji visited Kanshi and stayed there.  He had many discussions with Brahmin scholars there.  They were all glad to speak to Guru ji.  Our grandfather spoke to him as well.  He received the wisdom of Prema Bhagti from Guru ji.  Guru ji gave our grandfather the wisdom of the Satnam and instilled it in his heart.  Our grandfather asked Guru ji to recite Bani in his language.  Guru Nanak Dev ji recited 4 Shabads in Sahiskrit, which our grandfather quickly wrote.  We were going through our grandfather’s books as we were looking for peace.  We found the Saloks of Guru Nanak Dev ji, written by our grandfather, and read them.  Our minds were instantly in peace.  We memorized the Saloks and began to recite them everyday.  Guru ji wrote about showing off empty rituals in those Shabads.  He wrote about the Akaal Purakh, that is pure and residing inside the mind.”  Par Pustak Saloks, they recited.  They said to Guru ji: “please recite more Bani in this language of Sahiskrit by which we will achieve Gurmat.  We wish to have the true Name of Satnam reside in our hearts.  We wish to sing the praises of Akaal Purakh by this.  We wish to listen to this Bani which will purify our minds.  Please recite the Saloks in Sahiskriti.”  Guru ji listened to the Pandits and then recited the Sahiskriti Saloks.  After Sahiskriti Saloks, Guru ji recited the Bani named Gatha.  The Pandits listened to this Bani and had bliss in their hearts.  They grabbed Guru ji’s feet as they were filled with so much joy.  The love of Prabhoo, they could taste now.  The Simran of Satnam gave joy to them.  As soon as they touched Guru Arjan Dev ji’s feet, the bliss in their hearts grew many times.  They praised Guru ji: “you are the form of Ram Chander ji.  You are Krishan who killed Kans.  You are the Jot of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.  You are the Triambak Shiva that gives the Taarak Mantra in the dying person’s ear.  You hide your powers so that’s why people don’t know who you are, but those who you wish to show, recognize you.  They know you are the root of life.  You are not in birth or death.  You are indestructible.  Laxmi is your servant.  You destroy the enemies.  You are Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the sustainer; and Rudra the destroyer.”  Satguru ji was happy and said: “tell me your wishes.  You have come from far.  Don’t keep your wish inside your heart.”  Both of the brothers folded their hands with love.  They said: “our tasks are completed by visiting you, we have no other wishes left.  Please give us the satiation that all of the bad bonds of the world break for us.  We wish to have your feet engrained in our minds and that we do Simran, day and night.”  Satguru ji said: “so it shall be.”  The Pandits were happy to hear this.  The Pandits lived in Amritsar for a few days and went back to their homes. 

The Sahiskriti Saloks were written after the Raags by Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Guru ji then looked towards Bhai Gurdas ji and said: “the Bani that you have written in praise of the Gurus, show that to me.”  The Bhagats were sitting with Guru ji and having discussions with him.  Bhai Gurdas ji went to his tent and brought back his writings.  He sat down and recited his writings to Guru ji, in which the praises of the Gurus were written.  The Bhagats and Satguru ji listened and were very happy.  Guru ji said to Bhai Gurdas ji: “take some of your Bani and write it into the Guru Granth Sahib ji.”  Bhai Gurdas ji folded his hands and said: “Guru ji, I am the servant of your servants.  Servants are always lower and sit lower than the Master.  The Master sits on a throne.  There is a difference between my Bani and yours.  A firefly cannot be compared to the sun.  Your illumination is so great.”  Guru ji told Bhai Gurdas ji three times but each time Bhai Gurdas ji gave the same answer.  He saw himself as small and did not want to be placed at the same level as Guru ji.  Guru ji was happy and said: “your Bani will give great rewards.  Ones who read it will achieve Gursikhi and their faith and devotion for Satguru ji will increase.”  Bhai Gurdas ji folded his hands and bowed to Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji blessed the writings of Bhai Gurdas ji in this way.  It was given a blessing of giving bliss.

3-48 The Vedas came in the form of Bhatts

The Bhagats were sitting with Guru Arjan Dev ji in bliss.  It was as though the serene minded Shiva was sitting with the Munis.  It was as though Gyaan took on a form and was sitting as Guru ji.  The great virtues were sitting as Bhagats.  Visiting Guru ji was Amrit.  The Bhagats were drinking this Amrit and not getting enough.  They were filled with love.  Guru ji was giving them the wisdom of Prabhoo’s Simran.  After a while, the Bhagats took leave to go back to Sach Khand.  The Saloks of Bhagat Kabeer ji and Sheikh Fareed ji were written.  They all went to their dimensions.

The Vedas took on human forms and came to meet Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They bowed to Guru ji as they wanted to have Brahmgyaan from the Guru.  They came and sang the praises of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  The reason why the Gurus came into this world, Guru Arjan Dev ji was completing this task.  Bhai Ram Koer ji says: “listen to how the Vedas came.”  The Singhs asked: “why did the Vedas come in human form?”  Listen to this Katha, it is the praise of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the Satguru.  Listening to this Katha will fulfill your wishes.  All of the Vedas took an Avatar.  This is their Katha in detail.  The Vedas lived in Kanshi.  They are read there, day and night.  All types of Vidya were taught in Kanshi.  Many scholars talked about Brahm, day and night.  They read and pondered about the Vedas.  There was a time in Kanshi when the Vedas become egotistical.  They thought: “only we can show Brahm.  We show the reader, right and wrong.  Without us, there would be darkness in the world.  We illuminate knowledge in the world.  The unwise becomes wise by reading us.  They receive Mukti and break their bonds.”  Parbraham knows everything.  Parmeshwar knew that the Vedas became proud of themselves.  Akaal Purakh stated: “pride gives more births.  Ego is the root of all the vices.  The Vedas need to have their pride destroyed.”  The ocean of compassion decided to resolve this.  The Vedas were commanded via the Akaash Vaani by Akaal Purakh: “you need to take on the form of humans.  You have pride in you.  I will take it away for you.  Without the Guru, the Gyaan cannot illuminate.  You thought you were the root.  It is in fact the Satguru.  While wandering the earth, you will find the Guru.  You will have to look hard for the true Guru.  Without the Satguru, there is no peace.  Become a Sikh of the Satguru and then you will receive Mukti.  Each of you Vedas will take on 4 forms each.  16 in total.  Your composer, Brahma, will take a human form as well.  He will stay with you and protect you.  The Guru will cut your pain.  You will receive Mukti then.”  The Akaash Vaani ended and the Vedas were surprised at what happened.  The Vedas had a discussion with Brahma about taking a birth.  They then decided to take birth in the houses of Brahmins.  Each Veda took 4 forms.  These were their names: Shyam Veda – Mathura, Jhalap, Bal, Harbans; Rig Veda- Kalya, Jul, Nul, Kal Sahaar; Jujhar Veda- Tul, Sul, Julya, Bhulya; Atharbun Veda- Das, Keerat, Gaind, Sadrung.  Brahma was Bhikha.  Bhikha was the eldest.  They were all born as Saraswat Brahmins.  The wise Bhikha was the leader.  They looked around for the True Guru, travelling many lands.  They were upset every time they would meet Sadhoos and saints.  They served many people but they didn’t find the True Guru.  They went to everyone, the Giris, Puris, and Sanyasis.  They would listen to their words and be disappointed.  They went to Jogis and saw their Yoga.  That would not give them peace either.  They went to Brahamachaaris, Tapasvis and Bairagis, still nothing.  They wandered for one year and looked around the world.  They wanted the path to Mukti.  They performed strict Tapps but nothing brought peace to their mind.  They wanted the great being that would give them the wisdom they asked for.  They wandered and wandered.  They were upset and gave up.  They did Ardaas to Akaal Purakh to help them find the True Guru.  Their ego was completely dead now.  They now knew that the Guru was the greatest.  Bigger than them.  They wanted to meet the Guru that would make them calm.  As they were without pride now, they travelled towards Amritsar by their great fortune.  They heard the praises of the Guru on the way.  They heard about Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Their hope began to rekindle.  Along with Bhikha, they all travelled.  They had the wish to meet Guru Arjan Dev ji now.  They felt peace, hearing the praises of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They began to do Simran of Guru Arjan Dev ji’s name.

The Bhatts reached Harmandhir Sahib.  When they went in, they saw an amazing and awesome site.  They saw the Shyam Saroop Anoop Chaturbhuj form.  It was the extremely beautiful form with four arms that they saw.  They saw the radiance of the light all around.  Many people bowed there with devotion.  Everyone was saying: “Dhan Guru Ramdas ji.”  They saw Laxmi massaging the feet of Parmeshwar.  There was Keertan happening.  The eyes of Akaal Purakh were big with red endings.  He was wearing yellow clothes, jewellery with a Vajanti Mala in the neck.  A golden crown sat on the head with soft, curly black hair.  The Vedas, who were Brahmins, they saw the form of Akaal Purakh in Harmandhir Sahib.  It was only them that saw that form.  They saw Akaal Purakh as the form of Maha Vishnu.  Guru ji had to give them wisdom and that’s why he showed them his form as such.  Seeing such an amazing form, they were in awe.  They saw Akaal Purakh inside the Harmandhir Sahib.  This is the form that Jogis do Tapasya for.  The Bhatts stood there, standing.  They started to sing the praise of the Guru.  Love was in their heart.  The bowed their heads, over and over again.  Their eyes shed tears: “you are the ocean of compassion who protects the weak.  Your feet are like the lotus, I bow to them.  You are not born, you cannot be won or destroyed.  You have no beginning.  You are beautiful.  You are the king of kings.  You live in everything but are not affected by anything.  You are not born and the One. I do not know how to say what you are.  Who can describe you?  You are unique, amazing and without support.  You live in everyone and everyone lives in you.  Just as the sky encompasses everything, you are surrounding everything.  You are the one that is present in the universe.  Your eyes are great and radiant like the sun and moon.  Your ears are the directions, the sky is your head.  Virtues are your front and sins are your back.  The ocean is in your lap and the trees are your hairs.  The Pataals are inside you and you are the giver of Mukti.  Guru Nanak Dev ji came in the Bedis when he took a body.  You did the Simran of Akaal Purakh and made the people of Kaliyuga do Simran as well.  You started the path of Sikhi.  Whoever followed your Panth, they crossed this world.  Guru Angad Dev ji was the blesser who didn’t show his powers to anyone.  Your heart is deep.  You tolerate the intolerable.  You blessed many Sikhs, giving them patience by the Name.  Then you were the father of Mohri.  You established many traditions of Sikhi as Guru Amardas ji.  Your praises were sung in every direction.  You started the 22 Masand seats and made them into Gurus as well.  Then Guru Ramdas ji came and illuminated Kaliyuga, destroying the darkness of ignorance.  His son had the Jot living in it. I bow to you.  I bow to you.  I bow to you.”

They sang the praises in eight Chands.  Whoever sings these, they will receive what they ask for.  The Bhatts were humble and grabbed the feet of the Guru.  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji then came into this own form.  Guru ji asked the Bhatts: “for what task have you come?  Ask for what is in your heart.  Where do you live and where are you going?  What wish did you come to me for?”  Bhikha ji spoke with humility:

Bhikhay Vaach..

I have been searching for the True Saint, I have seen many saints..

I saw Sanyasis, Tapasvis, Pandits with sweet words..

I wandered for one year, but no one gave me the wisdom I was looking for..

There were many words I heard but I wasn’t happy with anyone’s way of life..

They let go of the Name of Hari and were engrossed in other tasks, what shall I say about them..

Guru ji, Akaal Purakh has brought us to you.  Keep us as you wish..2..20..

(SGGS 1395)

Guru ji please accept us as your Sikhs.  We see Akaal Purakh in you.  Give us your wisdom.  We travelled all the Teeraths of the world to find the True Guru.  We went through a lot of saints for peace.  We are tired now.  We are form Kanshi.  We have no other desires.  We see the world as false.  We want the Aatam Gyaan.”  Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji said: “you are the Vedas!  You have taken on human form and came to me.  You distinguish Brahm from the world.  You illuminate the glory of Parbraham.  You have become humans as a result of having pride.  The form of Brahm, Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, took a human form in Kaliyuga to bless many of his servants.  You are human, Akaal Purakh also took on a human form.  Sing the praises of Akaal Purakh in the language of the common person.  It should have the praises of Guru Nanak Dev ji and his other incarnations.  It should all be in the vernacular.  I will then make you my Sikhs.  You will be in peace and bliss.  Your name will be alive till the end of the world.  I will write your praises in the Granth that is being written right now.”  All of the Bhatts rejoiced after hearing this.  They folded their hands and asked: “please tell us in which “chaals” should we sing these praises?  Please start us off and then we will carry on.  We will follow you and do the praises of the Gurus.  This will be a great help to us.  Please tell us.” 

Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji then collected his awareness and remembered all of the Gurus.  He wrote the first 20 Svaiyas and then the Bhatts sang the praises.  They did the Simran of all the Gurus in the same style as Guru ji.  They sang the praises in total bliss.  They started with Guru Nanak Dev ji’s praises in many ways.  They were extremely beautiful.  They uttered about Guru ji as the Brahm form, which is praised by Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu and others.  They made Svaiyas in many forms.  Many languages were used by them.  There was great significance in these Svaiyas.  Whoever reads and listens to them, they get many rewards.  The Vedas call this form as “nayt nayt.”  Nobody can quantify this form.  Not even Shaishnaag or Sharda.  Jogis try to look for this form.  They then sang the praises of Guru Angad Dev ji in many ways.  They sang the praises of Sri Guru Amardas ji in beautiful ways.  They revealed the virtues of spring, Kusum, and Gang Turing.  They mentioned his unlimited virtues.  Nobody is equal to him.  They then sang about Guru Ramdas ji, the mine of virtues.  They sang his praises and called him Dhan, the master of the world.  Whoever met him, their sins of many lives were washed away.  The praises of Guru Arjan Dev ji were then sung.  It was the one Jot that went through the five bodies.  Guru Arjan Dev ji was the flag of the Dharma and had patience like the earth.  He was benevolent.  122 Svaiyay were composed, singing the praises of the five Gurus.  They said them to Guru Arjan Dev ji with great love.  The Bhatts then bowed to Guru Arjan Dev ji’s feet.  They were humble and put their head on Guru ji’s feet.  They wanted to become Sikhs of the Guru.  They wanted peace and bliss.  They wanted Bhagti.  Guru Arjan Dev ji was really happy and included their Bani in the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  He granted the Bhatts their wishes and made them his Sikhs.  They received bliss and their doubts were gone.  They became Brahmgyaanis and saw the form of Akaal Purakh.  They received this reward for singing the praises.  They left their bodies after some time.  They became the form of Gyaan again and lived in the Vedas.  Guru ji then added the Saloks which were known as “Vaara to Vadheek.”  After that, the Mundhaavni was written as the stamp of completion.  The Bhog of the Bani happened.  It’s praises could not be sung.  It was the ship to take one across this world. 

Once the completion happened, the Raags came and requested Guru ji to write the Raagmala.  The Raagmala gave the Raagis the distinction from one Raag to another.  This was to clear all the doubts as to which Thaat a Raag belongs to.  One who writes, listens or reads the Bani will be rewarded.  Their lives are great, who wrote the Bani with love.  The ones who read the Bani, they are in bliss.  They shed tears and their desires go away, who ponder upon the meaning of Gurbani.  The ones who listen to the Bani with a focussed mind, they are released from the cycle of birth and death. 

3-49 The Bir of Guru Granth Sahib ji

The beautiful Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib ji was written.  The writing was complete.  There was a great celebration with the Sangat.  Guru ji allowed the Sangat to come to Ramsar now.  The Sangat began to come in great numbers.  Other preparations were made for the celebrations.  Karah Prashaad was made in great quantities.  Guru ji announced to all: “the Guru Granth Sahib ji is complete.  Come and visit with joy.”  Men and women, all were happy and came to Ramsar.  Dhundhabs and napheeryas were sounded there.  Shehnais were played, giving sounds of joy to the ears.  There was a great crowd gathered there.  The Sangat came with great enthusiasm.  They brought Prashaad and other sweets to Ramsar.  Ripe and dry fruits were brought.  Some brought baskets of fruits; some brought garlands of flowers for Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Sikhs wore new clothes, like they were going to a wedding.  Guru Arjan Dev ji was alone with Bhai Gurdas ji while he was writing.  The Sangat wasn’t allowed during that time.  Now, the Sangat came in great numbers to see Guru Granth Sahib ji. 

Guru ji was sitting in his tent alone, just before the Sangat arrived.  Kaliyuga came to meet Guru ji.  He praised Guru ji with his hands folded and said: “Guru ji, you came to bless the world as an Avatar but it is my time in the world.  People do sins during most of their time and that is how I inspire them.  People in my time are foolish, corrupt and they will love to be cruel.  They will not follow the good path.  You have completed the Granth now.  It is filled with virtues.  This is no good for my time.  The sins will be washed away whoever reads or listens to your Granth.  You want people to have Mukti but I want people to go to Hell.  You wrote this Granth so people will do Simran of Satnam.  You want the Sadh Sangat to grow.  You Sikhs will spread in the whole world.  Tell me where I am to go now?  Where can I stay?  Please tell me?  Without your command, I can’t do anything.  I don’t have the power to go against your will.  I have come to you for this reason.  Wherever the Bani of Guru Granth Sahib ji can be heard, I become weak there.  If I sit in your Sangat, the Bani makes me weak.  I can’t sit there.  Tell me a time when I can come to the Sangat.  I have come to your sanctuary.  Please have mercy on me and look at my state.”  When Kaliyuga spoke to Guru ji, Guru ji was happy and said: “wherever Satnam will be said, don’t go there.  When the Bhog happens and the Karah Prashaad comes, the Sangat will stand up and do Ardaas.  The Karah will be distributed, you can then come.  Till it is distributed, you can sit in the Sangat.”  Kaliyuga got his permission and was happy.  Bhai Santokh Singh ji says: “this happens even today.  There is a great disturbance when the Karah Prashaad is distributed.” 

Guru ji sat in the Divaan.  The Sangat came with love.  Guru Granth Sahib ji was seating in the middle.  A servant was waiving a Chaur over Guru Granth Sahib ji.  A lot of Karah Prashaad was offered.  The Sikhs brought it all with joy.  Garlands of flowers came and were placed on Guru ji’s Saroop.  They were multi-coloured.  Many Sikhs brought them and put them around Guru ji’s neck.  They brought different flowers.  Roses, marigolds and jasmine.  Some put them on Guru Granth Sahib ji and some were put around Guru Arjan Dev ji’s neck.  Incenses were lit with many fragrances.  Sandalwood and saffron were added to the essences and sprinkled.  The Sikhs did the pooja of Guru ji.  Conches were played.  Sikhs came and did Ardaas of Prashaad.  They shouted out Jaikaras upon the name of the Gurus.  The Rababs, Sitars and mridangs were played.  The Raags were played and there was Keertan going on.  It was a great celebration.  There was a lot of Langar in progress.  When it was time to distribute Karah Prashaad, Kaliyuga came.  He came and there was a lot of shouting.  The Sikhs fought amongst themselves to get Prashaad.  Guru ji noticed that Kaliyuga had arrived.  Kaliyuga saw his time and came right on time.  Guru ji was happy with that too.  Everyone was going to get their time.  There were some fights but it was controlled.  People took the Prashaad and went to their homes.  They went back to work.

The beggars then come and offered their congratulations to Guru ji.  Guru ji gave them a lot of money and clothes.  Nobody left empty-handed from Guru ji’s home.  Some got money and some got clothes.  After the beggars, the musicians came with their napheeryas and dhundhabs.  Guru ji gave them money too.  The Raagis came, who did Keertan.  They got money and clothes.  They were all happy receiving their gifts.  The beggars said: “may your son be prosperous.”  In this way the Granth was complete.  There was a great importance in this task.  Guru ji said: “the ones who come to Ramsar and take a bath with love and devotion, their sins will be washed away in an instance.  Their faith towards Guru ji will grow.”  Guru ji got up and came to the city.  Bhai Gurdas ji, the wise one, came with Guru ji.  Guru Granth Sahib ji was taken with them.  Guru Granth Sahib ji was seated inside the Harmandhir Sahib.  Guru Granth Sahib ji would be worshipped in this place, forever.  People will read and write here. 

Guru ji then went to his home after.  Mata Ganga ji bowed to his feet and was really happy.  He rested the night.  In the morning, he bathed and got ready.  He went to Sri Harmandhir Sahib.  Guru ji would spend the whole day there and have Bhai Gurdas ji recite the Gurbani.  Guru ji and the Sikhs would listen to the Gurbani.  They would be filled with love and say Satnam.  In this way, the tradition was established.  The Sangat would joyfully come to visit from far away lands.  They would meet Guru ji and offer money.  The news had spread that Guru Granth Sahib ji had been written.  The reward was great.  People would come with love in their hearts to visit Guru Granth Sahib ji.  They would listen to the Bani with love and do Simran of Satnam.  Their sins and troubles would be washed away.  They would go to their homes and tell them about Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Others had the wish to come as well.

A person named Bhani Banno from the Mangat village brought a lot of Sangat with him and came to meet Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Bhai Banno ji heard the katha of how the Guru Granth Sahib ji was written.  He heard that all of teachings of the Vedas, Shastras and Granths were put in vernacular language into the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  He brought all the Sangat with him and bowed to Guru ji’s feet, placing money in front of him.  The Sangat met Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They listened to Gurbani from Guru Granth Sahib ji.   Bhai Banno ji stayed there for many days in Amritsar.  A lot of Sikhs were with him as well.  They listened to Gurbani and did Seva in the Langars.  After a few days, he was ready to leave.  He said to Guru ji: “you are the saviour of the poor.  You bless them.  You bless them day and night.  You came to save the people of Kaliyuga.  You made the ship of Guru Granth Sahib ji to help them cross Kaliyuga.  Please listen to our plea: please give us Guru Granth Sahib ji for a few days.  This is the desire of the Sangat.  The people of our land wish to meet Guru Granth Sahib ji.  They will get to listen to Gurbani.  We know that another Saroop has not been written.  We would have taken the other.  Please give us Guru Granth Sahib ji.  This is the plea of the Sangat.  We had thought about this when we started our journey.”  Guru Arjan Dev ji thought about this: “he has asked for something really big.  How can I give him?  There is only one.  If I don’t give them, then his faith will lessen.  Another should be written.  That would have been easier to give.  There is only one Saroop right now.  What should I say to this Sikh?  He is the leader of his Sangat.  He brought a lot of Sangat to come see me.  He is a beloved Sikh.  If I don’t accept has plea, that won’t be good.”  For some time, Guru ji remained quiet and thought about giving the Saroop.  Guru ji said: “Bhai Banno, this is a difficult thing.  You made a difficult request.  You want to take Guru Granth Sahib ji with love but there is no other copy.  There is only one, so how can we give them to you?  If I don’t listen to you, it is bad.  If I say yes, then we won’t have the Saroop.  You have put me in a dilemma.  Listen to my solution: take Guru Granth Sahib ji to your village for one night.  Bring back Guru Granth Sahib ji the next morning.  Do not keep them a second night.  Go and take Guru Granth Sahib ji to your village. Take them with great respect.  Make sure there is no disrespect.  The Sangat should always remain around Guru Granth Sahib ji.”  In this way, Guru Granth Sahib ji was taken to Bhai Banno’s village.  Many Sikhs were with him.  When he left, Bhai Banno thought to himself: “how can I make another copy of Guru Granth Sahib ji?  We can make many more after that.  Guru ji only wanted us to keep Guru Granth Sahib ji in the village for one night.  The copy cannot happen in one night.  We will set up camp 3 km away from our village.  We will only keep Guru Granth Sahib ji for one night in our village.”  Bhai Banno then did this and had many writers sit to make the copy of Guru Granth Sahib.  He told everyone to write quickly.  They kept changing camps each night, getting close to their own village.  They completed writing half of the Saroop by the time they got to their village.  They stayed one night in their own village and set back the next morning.  They slowly came back to Amritsar in this way.  They spent the same time going back.  They had completed the copy of the Guru Granth Sahib ji by the time they came back.  Bhai Banno had added writings of others in the new copy as well.  9 new compositions were in this Saroop.  When he came to meet Guru Arjan Dev ji, he presented the 2 forms of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  He told Guru ji about the extra writings that were included.  Guru Arjan Dev ji said: “these extra writings that you have written, only keep it in your Bir.  Don’t add it into the original.  I won’t add them.”  In this way, there were two Guru Granth Sahib jis which were written and recited by the Panth of Satguru ji.  Whoever listens and recites this Bani and makes it dwell into their hearts, Kavi Santokh Singh is a sacrifice to them.

3-50 The Praises of Sri Harmandhir and Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji

Some people say that Bhai Banno ji took Guru Granth Sahib ji to get the binding done and that Guru ji sent him to Lahore.  It is believed by some that he made the second copy on the way.  Whether this is fact or not, the truth is that Bhai Banno ji made the second copy.  In both versions of history, it is the greatness of the Satguru that shines through.  In 1661 (Vikram), 1704 CE, the 1^st Sudhi of Bhadron (August/September), the Guru Granth Sahib ji’s writing and binding was complete.  There was a great celebration then.  The Sangat of many lands came to visit Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Sikhs got the news and were really happy.  They were happy to see Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Some wanted to make copies and have the “Prakash” (illumination) done in their villages.

Bhai Banno ji and other Sikhs were sitting with Guru ji in the Divaan.  Sri Hargobind ji, 9 years old, was sitting with his father.  Guru ji was like the moon siting in the stars.  Guru ji gave wisdom to the Sikhs: “this world is an ocean in which everyone is drowning.  The Guru Granth Sahib ji is the ship.  Whoever connects his/her mind with Guru Granth Sahib ji, they will cross this ocean.  The body of the Satguru cannot be in two places at once; nor the same time at once.  Guru Granth Sahib ji is the heart of the Guru, it is the soul of the Guru.  They will be immortal and will be able to be in every country and every time.  The Guru Granth Sahib ji is higher than my body.  Respect them like Parmeshwar.  Worship them with sandalwood and saffron.  Light incenses near them and offer them fragrant flowers.  Whoever makes copies of Guru Granth Sahib ji, make sure the Bani is written accurately.  The vowels and letters should be correct.  Recite the Bani with faith and accuracy.  Just as I have checked the letters, do not write more or less than the original.  Whoever adds or takes away any of the Bani will be a fool.  Do not make up your own poetry and add it to Guru Granth Sahib ji.  If someone is a poet, write another Granth, sperate from Guru Granth Sahib ji.  There will be one, although, the strongest in the 14 worlds, there will be no other one like him.  He will tolerate his own power.  He will not use his powers.  He will sit on my throne.  He will think of others only.  He will give his head for the well-being of others.  He will come forth and show his patience.  His Bani will be added to Guru Granth Sahib ji.  There will be no other to add their Bani.  Whoever worships Guru Granth Sahib, their wishes will be fulfilled.  They will receive Mukti and not be beaten by the Jumms.  The praise of Akaal Purakh, which the Quran and Puranas state; the Vedas and Shastras talk about; Shaishnaag and Sharda cannot find the end of; everyone states as indescribable; who is the greatest and the support of all; the names of Akaal Purakh have been sung in Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Name and the Named are one.  This is the idol of Sri Kartar.  The Gurbani is the same as Akaal Purakh.  One should respect Guru Granth Sahib ji to the best of their abilities.  You will be rewarded as mush as you show respect.  Use sandalwood and light incenses with saffron.  Waive Chaurs over them.  Tie a canopy above them.  Meet Guru Granth Sahib ji everyday and then eat food or do your work.  Recite the Gurbani or listen to it.  Make the wisdom dwell in your heart.  Wherever you see Guru Granth Sahib ji, stand up and fold your hands.  Bow with a humble mind.  Tell others of the wisdom of the Bani.  Whoever does Katha, Keertan or writing of Guru Granth Sahib ji, do Parkash of Guru Granth Sahib ji, listen to the Bani, their bonds will be broken.  They will receive Mukti.  Their tasks will be complete.  For specific tasks, have the Paath done and distribute Karah Prashaad at the Bhog (completion).  The person doing Ardaas should stand up and fold their hands while doing the Ardaas.  Their wishes should be stated.  That wish, which should be a good thing, will be fulfilled.  Ask for the goodness of all, “Sarbat da Bhalla.”  If a Sikh dies, do the Paath of Guru Granth Sahib ji in the home.  Give clothes to the Paathis and Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Give food to the Paathis.  Langar should be distributed to the Sangat.  Do as much as your abilities allow you to.  Give money too, if you can.  That Sikh will be in joy in this world and in the next world.  What else can I say?  Everything can be fulfilled by reciting Bani.  The Saints and Mahants should not ask for worldly things.  They should only see Akaal Purakh with love.  They should do Simran of Satnam, day and night.  There sins will be washed away.  They will not see the Jumms.  They will come to me in Sach Khand.”

Guru ji was sitting at Ramsar when Bhai Banno ji brought the 2^nd Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru ji said this wisdom there.  This was for the good of the Sikhs.  The binding was done.  Guru ji asked Baba Bhudda ji: “where should Guru Granth Sahib ji illuminated?  Where is the place that would be befitting?”  Baba Bhudda ji said, folding his hands: “who is wiser than you?  If you are still asking me, in the middle of the Amritsar Sarovar, the Harmandhir Sahib is the most beautiful place for Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Sangat will listen to and read Gurbani around Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Just like Vishnu sits on Shaishnaag in the ocean and looks beautiful; Harmandhir Sahib is Vaikunt, Guru Granth Sahib ji should be illuminated in the centre.  It will look like Vishnu in the centre.”  Guru Arjan Dev ji was happy to hear this and said: “you are right Baba ji.  That is the best place.  Harmandhir Sahib is in the middle of Sudhasur (Amritsar) Sarovar.  There is no other place like it in all three worlds.  Guru Granth Sahib ji is the most beautiful and so is Harmandhir Sahib.  Guru Granth Sahib ji is filled with the names of Akaal Purakh.  The two supreme things will be together now.  Day and night, the praises of Akaal Purakh will be sung.  Bhai Gurdas ji, the Darbar of Guru Ramdas ji will grow.  Its glory will grow.  No pain and trouble will come close to the one who bathes in the Amritsar.  The Harmandhir is the form of Hari.  The Sikhs will do Seva with devotion here.  Laxmi will always serve here as well.  There will be no shortages here.  Whoever comes here with faith and do Ardaas, their Ardaas will be fulfilled.  Today we will stay in Ramsar.  In the morning we will go to Sri Harmandhir Sahib with Guru Granth Sahib ji.”  Everyone ate and slept the night.  Everyone slept on the floor, in respect of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru Arjan Dev ji slept on the floor as well.  Guru Granth Sahib ji were on a bed.  Guru ji thought in his heart: “who should do the Seva of Guru Granth Sahib ji?  There are many from the Bedis, Trehans, Bhallas and Sodhis.  Who should be the Granthi?  They are all proud of their families though, and so will not be able to do the Seva.  This status should be given to the one that does Seva and is without any pride.  The Seva should be given to the one who can do it with devotion.  That person should be given the status.”  He thought about who has met Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Baba Bhudda ji was the highest.  He had been with Guru Nanak Dev ji.  In this way, Guru ji went to sleep. 

Guru ji woke up at Amritvela.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji woke up as well.  They were drenched with the love of Guru ji.  Everyone bathed at Ramsar and sat under the Beri Tree where Sukhmani Sahib was first recited by Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Guru ji sat in samadhi for an hour as well as the others.  Guru ji said at the first light of the sun: “Baba Bhudda ji, take Guru Granth Sahib ji’s bed on top of your head.  Walk towards Harmandhir Sahib and everyone will follow.”  

Baba Bhudda ji picked up the Peera (platform) of Guru Granth Sahib ji and Guru Arjan Dev ji waived the Chaur over them.  They all walked towards the Sri Harmandhir Sahib ji.  Many conches, Narsinghas, Dhundhabs and Shehnais played as they walked.  Everyone shouted out Jaikaras.  Sri Hargobind ji, the handsome one, was with his father, behind Guru Granth Sahib ji.  It was the most beautiful sight.  They all reached Harmandhir Sahib, the Sach Khand.  The Raagis sang in Raags in high pitches.  Guru Granth Sahib ji’s Manji, with Guru Granth Sahib ji was placed in the middle of Harmandhir Sahib ji.  Guru ji sat beside Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The Asa Di Vaar was in progress.

When Asa Di Vaar was complete, Guru Arjan Dev ji said: “Baba Bhudda ji, open the Granth and read the Bani for the Panth to hear.”  Baba Bhudda ji heard the command and said: “true is your word.”  Baba Bhudda ji opened the Guru Granth Sahib ji with great respect.  He saw the Shabad that his eyes first laid upon and read it out loud for all to hear:

Soohi Mahalla 5..

Hari has come himself to complete the tasks of the Saints, Ram came himself..

The land is beautiful, the pool is beautiful; inside it, is the Amrit water, Ram came as the Amrit..

Amrit water was filled, the tasks were all completed, the wishes were all fulfilled..

There was Jai Jai Kaars in the whole world, all of the troubles are gone..

The complete, unborn, indestructible one, whose praises are sung by the Vedas and the Puranas..

He has kept his own greatness, Nanak has done Simran of the Name..1..

(SGGS 783)

Everyone bowed after hearing this.  The Sangat knew that the Hari Parmeshwar was there.  Guru Arjan Dev ji did the Chaur.  Baba Bhudda ji did the recitation of Japji Sahib after the Hukamnama.  The Sangat said: “Dhan.”  They listened to the Gurbani with love.  After Japji Sahib was complete, the Sangat shouted out Jaikaras and bowed their heads.  Guru Arjan Dev ji was very happy.  He was happy that Guru Ramdas ji was happy with him and that the tasks were all complete.  The Guru Granth Sahib ji was complete that contained the glory of Akaal Purakh.  Guru ji came out of Harmandhir Sahib and the Sangat sang the praises of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  From the dimensions of Vishnu, Shaishnaag, Shiva, Brahma, Ayodhya and the other places like Dwarka, Akaal Purakh left all those places and came to Harmandhir Sahib.  The court of Guru Ramdas ji has the greatest glory.  All the powers came to live here as well.  There was no other place like Harmandhir Sahib in Kaliyuga.  There was and will be no other place like this.  The master of the 3 worlds was here.  The dimensions of the Devatas are lower than this place.  The glory of all the dimensions came to the sanctuary of Guru Ramdas ji’s feet.  “Guru Ramdas ji is Dhan,” said the Devatas.  All of the four gifts are received from here. 

When it was evening, Baba Bhudda ji asked Guru ji: “where should the Guru Granth Sahib ji stay at night?  Tell us what your command is.  The Sikhs will keep that tradition.”  Guru ji said: “this is the court of Akaal Purakh.  The Guru Granth Sahib ji is the Avatar of Akaal Purakh.  Keertan Sohila should be recited at night.  Take Guru Granth Sahib ji while singing Shabads.  Take them to the place where I stay, near the Sarovar.  They shall rest where I sleep.  Take them there with respect.  When it is 2 am the Harmandhir Sahib should be washed with milk.  Lay down carpets after.  Light a ghee lamp inside the Harmandhir Sahib.  At around 3 am, the Raagis should start Asa Di Vaar.  Sing many shabads in various Raags.  When it is 5 am, Guru Granth Sahib ji should come to Harmandhir Sahib.  After Asa Di Vaar is complete, open Guru Granth Sahib ji and read the Hukamnama.  Do this everyday.”  After saying this, Guru ji sat down.  It was night time and Guru ji listened to the Kanra ki Chownki in Raag Kanra.  There was an Ardaas after the Chownki.  Keertan Sohila was read.  Everyone got up and did Ardaas.  Baba Bhudda ji took the Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib ji and placed them on his head.  Guru Arjan Dev ji waived the Chaur.  The conches were played.  Many instruments played, just as kings would enter or leave a room, Guru Granth Sahib ji was taken to the place where Guru Arjan Dev ji stayed.  There was a beautiful bed there.  The cloths were beautiful with flower garlands.  They were bordered with golden zarri.  Guru Granth Sahib ji was placed on the bed.  Guru Arjan Dev ji laid down on the floor.  Till today, there is a mat laid out in that room on the floor, in remembrance of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Guru ji would sleep here.  Only sometimes would he go to his home.  This was the Katha of how Guru Granth Sahib ji was written.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji has stated it to the best of his abilities.  Whoever listens to or reads this Katha, their wishes will be fulfilled.  They are coloured in the love of the Guru.  They receive Aatam Gyaan.