5-61 Bhai Mehra

On the fourth day, Satguru ji told everyone to get ready to leave.  The people of Vatala became upset and said: “when will we see him again like this?  Sikhs from other lands gathered and came to see Guru ji.  Oh my friends, they all came to our village.  Baba Rama ji’s family was fortunate to have Guru ji come to their home.  Baba Rama ji’s daughter is fortunate to have married the Guru’s son.  We were fortunate to be friends of the Guru’s daughter-in-law.  We got to see Guru ji for 3 days.”  The villagers spoke in this way and came eagerly to Baba Rama ji’s home.  Baba Rama ji had called everyone to see Guru ji off.  Guru ji was seated on a higher seat.  The dowry and gifts were brought out to show everyone.  Mata Neti ji (wife of Baba Gurditta ji) was brought out.  Clothes, jewellery and other gifts were placed in front of the groom’s family.  Baba Rama ji said while folding his hands: “for the Seva of your son, I am presenting my daughter as his servant.  I have nothing else to give.  Please protect my honor, seeing me as one of yours.  This is your greatness, oh Gareeb Nivaaj.  I have seen no one else like you in this world.”  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji gave him hope and said: “you gave so much and showed so much humility.  You are great!”  Guru ji got up and came outside of the home.  Guru ji commanded everyone to get ready for departure.  Mata Neti ji was seated in a palanquin.  Her friends all came to meet her.  Mata Sukhdayee ji came to meet her daughter and see her off.  She gave her many types of wisdoms before she left.  She shed tears while she said her goodbye.  Seeing the time as a happy time, she stopped crying.  The other friends hugged Mata Neti ji as well.  The women gave her blessing: “may you have a long-married life.”  The Dholi set off with the Bharaat.  Baba Gurditta ji came after her on his horse.  Money was showered over their heads.  Coins rained like raindrops.  The instruments played ahead.  The Bharaat was headed back to Amritsar.  Baba Rama ji and other seniors walked along the Bharaat for about 3 km.  Satguru ji then gave them leave while giving them hope.  Baba Rama ji and the other seniors bowed to Guru ji’s feet and went back home.  The Bharaat travelled towards Amritsar.

Just as the Bharaat travelled towards Vatala, that’s how they went back.  They stayed one night on the way.  The next day, they travelled home.  As they got close, a Sikh was sent to inform the people of Amritsar that Guru ji and the Bharaat was coming back.  Mata Ganga ji heard this and was overjoyed.  The women of the family made preparations to receive the Bharaat.  The Dholi and the Bharaat reached the main gate of Amritsar.  Everyone saw Baba Gurditta ji.  Mata Damodri ji was extremely happy to see her son come home.  It was like she received the Kalapbrish.  Baba Gurditta ji and the Dholi reached the door of the house.  Mata Damodri ji circumvented a glass of water over their heads as the newlyweds stood at the door.  The traditions were completed and the couple came inside the home.  A big bag of money was placed in the bride’s lap.  Mata Damodri ji was happy to see her son and daughter-in-law.  Mata Ganga ji was very happy.  She put money in the bride’s lap as well.  Mata Nanaki ji and Mata Marwahi ji came and gave Mata Neti ji money.  They were overjoyed to see her.  They praised her beauty.  The other women of the family all came to see Mata Neti ji.  They gave her money after seeing her. 

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and Bharaat took Baba Gurditta ji to take Karah Prashaad to Harmandhir Sahib.  They bowed at the Darshani Deodi and crossed the bridge.  They bowed inside the Harmandhir Sahib and did 4 Parkarmas of the Harmandhir Sahib.  They all met Baba Bhudda ji and bowed to him.  Baba ji asked how everyone was.  He stood up and did the Ardaas with Guru ji.  The Prashaad was then distributed to everyone.  Everyone then went to Akaal Takhat to meet Bhai Gurdas ji.  Bhai Gurdas ji bowed to Guru ji.  The Masands were commanded: “make sure the people of the Bharaat have what they need.  Give them food and feed.  Make sure everyone is comfortable.”  Guru ji then went to his home. 

It was evening soon.  Mata Ganga ji and the whole family went to go and bow to Harmandhir Sahib.  Mata Neti ji was taken as well.  They did 3 Parkarmas and bowed.  Gifts were presented inside.  The women all sang and gave their congratulations to Mata Ganga ji.  Everyone ate once they returned home and slept the night in peace.  The next 5 days were busy with celebrations.  The relatives and family that came from other towns got ready to leave.  It was hard to mention who came.  A lot of people came.  Guru ji gave them gifts, sweets, clothes and respect.  They all went back to their homes with great joy.  The people of Mao, Khadoor, Dallay, Mandyali, Goindwal and other places all went home while praising the great wedding: “the wedding was great!”  Bibi Ramo ji and Bhai Sai Das ji stayed back.  They said: “we are not satiated with Guru ji’s Darshan.  We don’t wish to go home.”  Guru ji was happy to hear his.  They were very beloved to Guru ji.  Guru ji kept Bhai Sai Das ji close to him. 

A Sikh named Bhai Mehra ji lived in Bakala.  He loved the Guru a lot.  He lived near the Beas River.  He was doing Simran and came to see the celebrations of the wedding.  He saw the whole wedding.  It was Vaisakhi then and so he had attended that as well.  He brought money for Guru ji and came to bow to him when Guru ji was not busy.  He bowed his forehead and said to Guru ji: “oh great one, I have a wish in my heart.  I have made a beautiful home with your blessing.  I wish to have you step foot in that home first.  I wish to have you and Mata Ganga ji come to my home.”  Satguru ji heard this and said: “if this is your wish with love, why wouldn’t it be fulfilled?  Wait a little while.  The time will come.”  Bhai Mehra ji got Guru ji’s blessings and went to Mata Ganga ji.  She was already happy because of her grandson’s wedding, as her family was growing.  Guru Arjan Dev ji’s words came to fruition of her vine growing.  Bhai Mehra ji folded his hands and bowed to Mata Ganga ji.  Mata ji was happy and said: “are you well?”  Bhai Mehra ji said: “I have a wish in my heart to take Sri Guru Hargobind ji and yourself to my home.  I have constructed a beautiful new home and spent a lot of money on it.  I haven’t lived in it yet.  I want you to come first.  I want Guru ji to step foot inside first.  I have requested Guru ji as well but I need your help too, Mata ji.  Please ask him to get ready to go.  Please come there, at least, once.  The home will be blessed then.  Live there for one or two nights.”  Mata Ganga ji said: “the celebrations of the wedding are still happening.  It will be hard to leave right now.  The relatives and family are still here.  Wait a few days and then we will come.  I will bring Guru Hargobind Sahib ji with me.  We will come to your home due to your good karma.  Don’t doubt this.  Go back to your home now and wait for us.”  Mata Ganga ji gave him hope.  Bhai Mehra ji went back to his home.

Bhai Mehra ji came to his home and waited for Guru ji.  He waited day and night.  He stopped eating properly.  He only thought of Guru ji.  One day, Mata Ganga ji spoke to her son about Bhai Mehra ji: “oh son, the Sikh that lives in Bakala, he wanted us to come to his home.  He requested both of us to come with great love.  He is waiting for you to come.”  Sri Guru ji knew everything and accepted Mata ji’s request.  He knew that Mata ji’s time to go to Sach Khand was near.  He said: “I will go with you and stay there for 2 or 3 days.”   

5-62 Mata Ganga ji goes to Sach Khand

Hearing the words of Mata Ganga ji, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji obeyed.  He was omniscient and knew what was going to happen.  He accepted her words.  Guru ji said: “In the morning we will make the preparations to go to Bakala.  I will go with you.”  Guru ji spent the night.  At Amritvela, the compassionate master of the world woke up.  He bathed and sat down in Samadhi.  As the sun came up, Guru ji opened his eyes.  Guru ji did not take the family.  Only Mata Ganga ji went with Guru ji.  Guru ji’s horse was saddled.  A few warriors went along with Guru ji.  Mata Ganga ji was in her palanquin.  They bowed at Harmandhir Sahib and headed towards Bakala.

Guru ji and Mata Ganga ji travelled slowly towards Bakala.  Bhai Sai Das ji went along.  Guru ji said to Bhai Sai Das ji: “this place that you see ahead, it is important to get there.  We will stay here for a few days.”  Bhai Mehra ji got news that Guru ji was coming and Mata Ganga ji was with him.  With great joy, he came ahead to receive Guru ji.  He met Guru ji and bowed to his feet.  Satguru ji asked him how he was doing.  Bhai Mehra ji said: “with your compassion, everything is peaceful.”  Bhai Mehra ji then bowed to Mata Ganga ji’s feet.  Mata ji gave him a blessing: “may you remember the Guru.”  Bhai Mehra ji was really happy.  He travelled to his home with Guru ji and Mata ji.  They went to the place of his new home.  He had a beautiful bed laid down there.  New and beautiful sheets were laid out on the bed.  He asked Guru ji to go to the new house first.  They all arrived at the new house.  The family of Bhai Mehra ji were all standing outside.  As Guru ji came, they all bowed.  Food was ready and everyone ate.  They made sure to do Seva that made Guru ji happy.

For 3 days, Guru ji and Mata ji stayed at Bhai Mehra ji’s home.  Bhai Mehra ji did Guru ji’ Seva with joy.  On the fourth day, Bhai Mehra ji and other Sikhs were sitting with Guru ji.  Mata Ganga ji was there as well.  Mata ji said to Guru ji: “oh son, I had a dream last night.  I saw the end of my body.  I saw that I will go to your father.  I want to go to him now and be in bliss.  Whatever I wanted to in life, I received.  I want to go to him now.  With the Guru’s blessing, I lived a very happy life.”  It was evening when Mata ji said this.  At Amritvela, Mata Ganga ji bathed.  She got dressed and sat with Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Satguru ji told Mata ji to do the Simran of Vahiguru.  Guru ji knew that it was her time to go.  Mata ji only did Simran and did not say anything else.  Guru ji did the recitation of Japji Sahib.  He then started to recite Sukhmani Sahib.  Bhai Bidhi Chand ji, Bhai Jetha ji and Bhai Sai Das ji came and sat close to Mata Ganga ji.  They knew that it was her time to go.  They all listened to Guru ji reading Bani.  They were all surprised to see the events unfolding.  They all became sad as they knew Mata ji was going to go.  When the recitation of Sukhmani Sahib was done, everyone folded their hands and bowed their heads.  Mata ji said to her son: “just as your father’s body was laid in the water, do the same for my body.  Be happy with your family, my son.”  The Kusha aasan was laid.  Mata ji laid down on it and took a sheet over her face.  She left her body as everyone looked on.  She went to the home of Guru Arjan Dev ji to be with him for eternity.  It was the 4^th Suddhi of Jeth (May/June), Monday, when Mata Ganga ji left this earth to be with her husband in Sach Khand.  The heaven resounded: “Jai Jaikaar!”  The Devatas all bowed their heads.  A vessel from Sach Khand came to take her soul.

Bhai Babak Raagi ji was called by Guru ji.  Guru ji said: “sing the Asa Vaar.  Sing Shabads in Maaroo and Vadhans.  These are the Raags of great Vairagya.”  Bhai Babak ji tuned his Rabab and sang the Gurbani of Vairagya.  Everyone listened attentively.  They sat around the body of Mata Ganga ji.  They all listened with love.  The sun came up and the Asa Vaar was complete.  A platform was readied for Mata ji’s final journey.  Everyone bathed.  Everyone shed tears from their eyes, remembering Mata ji.  Mata Ganga ji’s body was laid on the platform and picked up.  Bhai Sai Das ji, Bhai Pirana ji, Bhai Bidhi Chand ji and Bhai Jetha ji picked up the platform.  Bhai Mehra ji waived the Chaur over Mata ji’s body.  Bhai Babak ji sang Keertan at the front as they walked.  Sri Guru Hargobind ji walked as well.  Many people of the village came to meet Guru ji.  Everyone took turns picking up the platform and singing Gurbani.  They reached the shores of the Beas.  With the command of Guru ji, the Sikhs went into the river.  Where Guru ji signaled, the Sikhs put Mata ji’s platform into the river.  As the platform went into the water, Mata ji’s body disappeared.  The Devata of water, Varun Devata came and bowed to Mata ji’s body.  He made sure Mata ji’s body reached its destination.  The Sikhs were surprised to see that Mata ji’s body had disappeared.  They came back and told Guru ji what happened.  They told Guru ji about Varun Dev coming and Mata ji’s body disappearing.  When everyone heard this, they said: “only the Guru knows his ways.”  They all bowed.  In this way, everyone came back to Bakala.

The people of Bakala came to Guru ji.  For one more night, Guru ji stayed there.  In the morning, Guru ji prepared to go back to Amritsar.  Guru ji said to Bhai Mehra ji: “I have completed your wish.  I am going back to Amritsar now.  I will complete the traditions of Mata ji’s Ardaas there.  I will hold a Divaan in her remembrance.”  Bhai Mehra ji said: “please do the traditions here.  Whatever you need, have it called here.  Do the Yagna for Mata ji here.  The Tilak should be applied to your forehead here.”  Guru ji said: “what you are wishing for, I will complete one day.  The third incarnation from me will receive the Tilak from this place.  He will get the Tilak in Bakala.  There is no difference between my incarnations.  It is all me.  Your body will remain till then.  You will see this event with your own eyes.”  Bhai Mehra ji heard this and had faith.  He grabbed Guru ji’s feet and bowed. 

Guru ji mounted his horse and left Bakala with speed.  Bhai Sai Das ji and the other warriors were with Guru ji.  Guru ji rested little on the way.  He reached Amritsar in a few days.  When he came home, he told the whole family about Mata Ganga ji.  The wives of Guru ji began to cry.  They remembered her virtues and cried.  They said: “look how she left us first and then left her body.  We weren’t able to see her face when she left.  Mata ji was a great support for us.  She gave us great wisdom.  She taught us everything.”  Guru ji bowed at Harmandhir Sahib and then sat at Akaal Takhat.  The people of Amritsar heard of Mata ji’s departure.  The seniors of the city came to Akaal Takhat and spoke to Guru ji about Mata ji.  They praised the wise mother: “she was wise like Mata Bhani ji.”  Guru ji said: “whoever has taken birth, must die one day.  This is the rule of Kartar.  Why be sad over something that was destined to happen?  To mourn over something that was going to happen, there is no benefit in this.”  Guru ji spoke to everyone. 

Guru ji got up and went to his home.  Many were crying at home.  The women of the city were there and crying.  They cried out loud.  Guru ji called one of the maids to him.  The maid came to him, crying.  Guru ji said: “stop crying and tell everyone else to stop crying as well.  Sit there and sing the praises of Akaal Purakh.  My mother is fortunate.  She is in bliss now.  Don’t cry for her.  She is in Sach Khand now.”  The maid went to the home and told everyone to stop crying by Guru ji’s order.  Everyone eventually stopped crying but they were still upset.  They spent the night there. 

Guru ji woke up at Amritvela and had messages sent to the other families.  Everyone heard this and mourned.  They all got ready to come to Amritsar.  They all came to Amritsar.  Guru ji said: “listen Bhai Gurdas, do a Paath of Guru Granth Sahib ji, the treasure of peace.  Make this a new tradition that when someone dies, the Gurbani is recited.  When the Gurbani is recited, the departed one will feel the peace.  There is no better reward than this.  Only the fortunate ones will get this.” 

Tarps and rugs were laid out.  The Sikhs waived Chaurs.  Bhai Gurdas ji opened up Guru Granth Sahib ji and recited the Gurbani.  2 Days passed like this.  The people listened to the Gurbani.  The family started to come.  They came to Guru ji’s home and cried. 

5-63 The Avatar of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji

The relatives from Goindwal, Khadoor, Mao, Dallay and Mandyali, all came and mourned the passing of Mata Ganga ji.  They all shed tears and remembered her.  The wives of Guru ji could be heard crying.  Everyone was upset at the loss of Mata Ganga ji.  They praised Mata Ganga ji’s virtues and remembered her.  They would talk about her and begin to cry.  Many sat with Guru ji and said: “she was so fortunate.”  Guru ji would say: “this whole world you see is destined to be destroyed.  Nothing will last forever.  No person will last.  The river flows, that is how this life is.  The world keeps moving.  When the body gets old, it needs to be discarded.”  The Bhallay and the Trehans would speak about spirituality.  Guru ji would say: “that is right what you say.”  Everyone went back to their Dheras.  The Masands looked after everyone’s needs.  The did everyone’s Seva. 

Satguru ji would sit in the Divaan.  Everyday, many people would come to offer their condolences.  The Divaan would occur morning and evening.  Many people would come to listen to Keertan.  Crowds gathered.  13 days passed like this.  Bhai Gurdas ji completed the full recitation of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru ji had the Ardaas done during the Bhog.  Guru ji presented a zarri chola to Bhai Gurdas ji for doing the Paath of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Many donations were given to the Brahmins.  Clothes, jewellery and food were given.  Money and beds were also given along with fruits and sweets to the Brahmins.  They were all very happy.  Baba Bhudda ji gave a Dastaar to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Guru ji tied the Dastaar to his head.  The Trehans and Bhallas all gave a Dastaar to Guru ji, which Guru ji tied.  Baba Duara ji and Baba Hari Chand ji along with Baba Narayan Das ji (Guru ji’s fathers-in-law) gave clothes, jewellery and money.  They folded their hands and requested Guru ji to accept their gifts.  The Sangat; Sikhs and Masands, presented gifts and expensive items to Guru ji.  Guru ji had the Panchamrit prepared and distributed.  The event turned into a celebration now as they all let go of their mourning.  The Naubats and Shehnais began to sound again.  Everyone came and bowed to Guru ji for leave.  The family from Goindwal and other places all went back.

After a few days, the Sangat came in big numbers.  One day, Baba Bhudda ji said: “you have to do many tasks now.  Your outwardly actions that you are doing (hunting and other tasks), people have become doubtful of you and talk bad about you.  You are going to fight wars now.  That time is coming close.  Where I used to live in solitude (Baba Bhudda ji’s Bir), Sri Guru Ramdas ji gave me the task of farming that land.  I used to live at the Bir.  Everyone knows about that.  Please give me permission to go back to the Bir and live there for the rest of my life.  I am old know.  I can’t take on too many responsibilities.  Mata Ganga ji has left her body.  Till Mata ji was here, Bir Ras was not going to come inside you.  Now that she is gone, Bir Ras, the warrior spirit, will come roaring inside of you.  Many problems will arise now.  You wore weapons for this reason in advance.”  Guru ji heard this and thought about this: “Baba ji is right.  He used to live there before.  He stayed here in Amritsar because of me.  I was young and he wanted to be with me for that reason.  The time of war is coming.”  Guru ji gave Baba Bhudda the permission, while bowing to his feet.  Baba Bhudda ji bowed to Guru ji and looked at the body of the “destroyer of sinners.”  Baba Bhudda ji went back to the Bir.  He went to his own home.  He went into the single state of Brahmgyaan.  He had unlimited powers and could do whatever he wanted to.  He didn’t use his powers though, showing great calm and restrain.

After a few days, a lot of Sangat continued to come.  Guru ji blessed many with Mukti.  Some were given Bhagti and some were given Gyaan.  Some had their wishes fulfilled of having children or other things.  Guru ji practiced Shastervidya with his warriors.  He did it more than before.  Painday Khan was a strong warrior.  There was no other stronger than him in Hindustan.  He used swords and shields to fight.  Guru ji used a 9 Tonka bow and released thick arrows.  Guru ji would guide the blacksmiths on how to make the arrows: “make sure the heads are 4 fingers thick and made of faulaad.  The shaft should be strong along with the inserts.”  People would see it and be amazed.  They would say: “nobody else could shoot these arrows besides Guru ji.  We heard that Arjan shot such thick arrows.   Looks like Arjan won’t be able to shoot these arrows that Guru ji has made.  Which enemy could stand these arrows?  They look like king cobras.”  Guru ji had many arrows made.  Bullets were made for the rifles.  He began to gather many items for war.  Guru ji would give attention and love to Painday Khan.  Guru ji would go to visit Mata Kaulan ji at her home as well.  Many Sikhs would be jealous and slander Guru ji without knowing his greatness.  They would say: “look how Guru ji meets the Turks.  He keeps the Turks close to him.  He has brought the daughter of the Qazi to his home.  He does not hesitate going to her home.  The Gurus before him never did this.  He has gotten rid of the cool and calm personality of the Gurus before him and taken on another personality.  He has started new traditions.  His ways and likings are different.  He hunts other life forms and kills them.  He loves to practice Shastervidya.  He loves weapons.”  In this way many opposed Guru ji’s ways.  They would say: “he has changed the previous Maryada of the Guru’s home.”  People in many lands spoke like this.  The true Sikhs understood Guru ji and his ways.  Guru ji’s face was very radiant.  Nobody could say anything to his face. 

Guru ji’s sister-in-law, Bibi Ramo ji, and her husband, Bhai Sai Das ji, were still in Amritsar.  They were given leave now.  When they left, they felt the pain of the separation from Guru ji.  They touched Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji gave them hope.  They went back to Daroli and did the Simran of Guru ji, all the time. 

After some time, Mata Nanaki ji went into labor.  It was the pleasant month of Vaisakh.  At Amritvela, 1669 Vikram (Kavi Santokh Singh ji has written 1669 but other historical texts say 1678 Vikram which converts to 1621 CE), Vaddi Panchmi, a radiant child was born.  The midwives and servants all did the Seva.  The child’s birth brought bliss to everyone.  He was going to save the seed of the Hindu religion.  There was no one else like this person.  He sacrificed his head for others.  The Devatas sang his praises when he was born.  They rejoiced and celebrated his birth, for it was their Pooja that was going to be saved.  They said: “our religion will be saved!”  The Devatas all came to do Pooja of the child, who was going to be known as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and the other Devatas all came to worship the child.  They sang his praises: “there is no other like this child.”  They presented sandalwood and flowers to his feet.  They said: “the Guru is great.  The Guru Ghar is great.”  When the midwife brought the newborn child to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, wrapped up in a blanket, Guru ji bowed to the child’s feet.  Bhai Bidhi Chand ji asked Guru ji: “why did you bow to the child’s feet?”  Guru ji said: “this child will give the ultimate sacrifice to save another’s religion.  He will be radiant.”

The news spread about Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s Avatar in the morning.  Everyone came to congratulate Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  The instruments sounded and the celebrations began.  The flowers hung from the doors.  The beggars were given a lot of donations.  The whole city was full of bliss.  The women of the city came to Mata Nanaki ji in groups.  They came to Guru ji’s home, wearing expensive clothes and jewellery.  They sang songs of joy.  The family’s traditions were carried out.  Everyone came and gave their well wishes.  Satguru ji thought to himself: “this child will give birth to the most powerful Avatar ever.  He will be the most powerful out of all of the Avatars.  He will fight wars with great bravery and pull the roots of the Turks.  He will be fearless himself and make others fearless as well.  His son will be “the brave wielder of the Tegh,” he will be the “Tegh Bahadhur.”  He will kill many sinners.  I will name his father, my son, “Tegh Bahadhur.”  (Other historical texts state that Guru Hargobind Sahib ji named the child “Tyaag Mal”- the renouncer.  When Tyaag Mal ji fought his first war, upon seeing him wield the sword with great skill, Guru Hargobind ji renamed him “Tegh Bahadhur.”) As per Kavi Santokh Singh ji, Guru ji named his son “Sri Tegh Bahadhur ji” from birth.  Guru ji told everyone.  Mata Nanaki ji was very happy to hear the name.  She kissed the forehead of her child.  In this way, the celebrations happened.  The 5th son of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was born. 

5-64 Preparations for Bibi Veero’s Wedding

Guru ji gave donations everyday to the Brahmins and to the poor.  Nobody was poor in the city.  Many came to Guru ji to get money.  Guru ji showed many great tasks which ordinary people could not understand.  Nobody knew the ways of Guru ji.  Many people would see Guru ji’s tasks and talk bad about him.  They would say: “he has done the opposite of what the Maryada was.”  Many people saw Sri Krishan Chand’s ways and talked bad about him.  People would say: “Bhagavan Krishan ji is surrounded by the company of women.”  They did not know his greatness, his completeness as an Avatar.  The Avatar of the Prabhoo is omnipotent.  They have the ability to do as they please.  They are not stained by the actions of the external.  They remain detached like a lotus flower never gets wet.  The Avatars that seem to have vices, are actually their virtues.  They are above traditions and non-traditions.  The fools slander them.  They do not say anything to their faces.  They talk behind their backs.  They are quiet in front of Guru ji.  The Guru’s radiance is unbearable for the fools. 

One day, Guru ji went to his home and sat in solitude.  Mata Damodri ji came to meet Guru ji.  She sat close to Guru ji and said: “our daughter is 8 years old now.  She is of age to be married.  Think of her and give your attention towards her wedding.  Find a good day for it.”  Guru ji said: “this is a good thing.  Tomorrow morning, I will do this task.”  At night, everyone slept. 

Guru ji woke at Amritvela and did his morning routines.  Guru ji bathed and sat in Samadhi, focusing into his real form.  The sun came out and Bhagavan opened his eyes.  He came to the Divaan and sat on his throne.  The Jyotishi Brahmins were called and told to find an auspicious day for Bibi Veero ji’s marriage.  The Jyotishis calculated the charts of Bibi Veero ji and Bhai Sadhoo ji.  They looked at the constellations and planets to find a day.  They then said: “the 26^th day of Jeth (May/June) is the best day for the Lagan.”  Guru ji then had a letter written which was sprinkled with saffron and Kumkum.  Bhai Singha Purohit ji was called and told the details.  He was the Purohit of the Sodhis.  He was told: “take this letter to the Mullay village.  They should come in Jeth to do the marriage.”  Bhai Singha Purohit left Amritsar with joy.

The Purohit reached Mullay in 4 days.  He met Bhai Dharma ji, the father of Baba Sadhoo ji.  Bhai Dharma ji was really happy.  He had him sit with respect and asked him how Guru ji was.  Bhai Singha ji told him he was well.  He then gave Bhai Dharma ji the letter of marriage, written by Guru ji.  Bhai Dharma ji bowed to the letter and put the letter to his chest to relish in the joy of the moment.  He had the letter ready by his own Pandha.  Bhai Dharma ji then told his wife, Bibi Nand Kaur ji about the marriage.  He said: “we will take the Bharaat in Jeth for the marriage.  Start all of the celebrations now.”  The women of the village came and began to sing songs of joy. 

After 2 days, Bhai Singha Purohit ji left after being served well.  He was given gifts as he left.  He came to Amritsar in 5 days and told Guru ji everything.  The Masands were told: “the wedding time is near.  Gather all of the items of need.”  The Masands were given money to buy the items of need.  They bought ghee, sugar and other food.  The grains and rice were brought.  They were all loaded on camels and set to Amritsar.  Carts of cashews, almonds and other dry nuts were bought.  Rolls of expensive cloth was bought.  All of the stuff was gathered. 

Sri Guru Hargobind ji was very carefree.  He loved Painday Khan a lot.  He would see Painday Khan’s big height and be happy.  Painday Khan was able to separate two fighting bulls and break a coconut by squeezing it between his bicep and forearm.  He would spin clubs and make potholes in the ground as he would put them down.  His clubs were 7 Maunds heavy.  His feet would cause potholes.  In the evening, he would wrestle with Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  They would use many wrestling moves with each other.  Guru ji would press Painday Khan to the ground and make him immobile, using his physical strength.  Guru ji did not need to use his powers.  Painday Khan couldn’t do anything then.  Painday Khan would say to Guru ji: “I am not less in strength than you.  You use the strength of your holy powers to take me down.  You control my body and press me down.  There is no one stronger than me in this world.  I don’t see anyone else.  I can grab an elephant by the trunk and not let him move.  I can pull an elephant.  Camels are nothing for me.  I can punch then and kill them.  I can put them upside down.  I can take the strongest steeds and stop them with one hand.  I wouldn’t let them pick their legs up.  The smaller horses are nothing.”  Guru ji would hear this and praise him: “you are strong.  You can do all this.  You are tall and wide.  You are full of strength.  You have worked hard on your body and ate good food.  There is no other stronger than you.”  Painday Khan heard this and said: “you are taking care of me.  That’s why I am so strong.  If war is ever upon us, I will show you my strength on the battlefield.  I will show you what I can do.  The enemy may be like the ocean but I can stir them up like the Mandrachal mountain stirring the ocean during the Samundar Manthan.  I can use the strength of my arms to make waves in the ocean.  I can pile up their heads.”  Guru ji said: “the time will come.  You can show what you are saying.”  Guru ji would spend the whole day with Painday Khan.

Guru ji would give donations to many people.  Painday Khan would be given a lot of money as well.  If a good horse would come into the stables with an expensive saddle, it would be given to Painday Khan.  The saddle would have diamonds, sapphires, and rubies in it.  If expensive clothes and jewellery would come, that would be given to Painday Khan.  Painday Khan would wear it.  The Sikhs would bring nice weapons for Guru ji.  That would be given to Painday Khan as well.  Those items would be very expensive.  Guru ji would give Painday Khan all of the best items that the Sikhs would bring from other lands.  If by chance Guru ji did not give him something that was rare and beautiful, Painday Khan would ask for it.  This would make the Sikhs very angry but they would never say anything to Guru ji.  Sikhs would want Guru ji to wear or use their gifts but when Painday Khan would wear them, the Sikhs would get upset.  Guru ji would think about Painday Khan and not notice the Sikhs.  The Sangat would see Guru ji’s behaviour and talk bad about Guru ji amongst themselves: “look at the previous Gurus’ ways.  Guru ji has let go of those traditions.  He sits less with the Sangat.  He pays attention to the more fiercer things like Shastervidya and hunting.  Secondly, he has kept a Turkani in his home.  He doesn’t see this as a bad thing.  He doesn’t stay in the Dharamsala.  He’s always gone hunting in the jungles.  He goes to the home of the daughter of the Turk everyday.  We have seen him go to her home.  We can’t even say anything to him.”  Everybody sees this and talks bad about him.  Many foolish people would say this.  The devotional Sikhs would not tolerate this slandering.  They would have conversations amongst themselves: “why Guru ji has kept the Turks close to him, only he knows.  The Turks have become egotistical because of the compassion of Guru ji.” 

5-65 The Sikhs have Discussions

The ones with the unwise minds, those fools spoke badly about Guru ji.  They would meet each other and talk bad about Mata Kaulan ji.  They would say: “it is the greatness of Guru Ramdas ji.  He was always full of Vairagya; his eyes were always full of tears.  He was always in a calm and serene state.  Maya or attachment never came into his mind.  He spent his days in Satsangat.  He listened to Keertan with love.  He only loved the Shabad.  He would wake up at Amritvela and come to the Sangat.  His son was Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Seeing his good qualities, Guru Ramdas ji gave his son the Gurta Ghaddi.  He was benevolent and did a lot for the Sangat.  This is not hidden from the world.  He constructed Sri Amritsar and then Taran Taaran.  He compiled the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  He created a temple of Mukti.  Till his body remained, he was generous to the world.  He did many tasks for the world.  His glory spread in every direction.  His character was pure and high.  That’s how Guru Arjan Dev ji spent his life.  His son is now on the Ghaddi of the Guru.  He is not like his father or grandfather.  The Badshahs used to come to the Guru’s home before and bow to the Guru Ghaddi.  This Guru goes to the Shahs himself.  He stayed in the jail as a prisoner like a king of another land.  He made his state like other kings.  He lives like them now with his royal regalia.  He then killed Chandoo in a heartless way.  He didn’t feel sorry for him.  He didn’t show him any compassion.  He meets with the Badshah like his Umraavs.  He didn’t think about his own greatness.  He stayed with Jahangir in Lahore.  He brought the Qazi’s daughter with him.  This was a very bad thing to do.  Nobody could stop him because of his radiance.  He brought the Turkani and made a home for her.  He didn’t consider the greatness of his family.  He still doesn’t hate the Turks nor does he fear the Badshah’s army.  He then brought Painday Khan and keeps him close to him.  He gives him a lot of money and gifts.  If he needs to do a task, he takes Painday Khan’s advice for it.  He is very compassionate towards him.”  The slanderers would say these kinds of things.  They would meet each other and talk bad about Guru ji.  The people of Amritsar and Lahore would say these things.  They would call themselves Sikhs but they would talk bad about the Guru.  They thought they knew better than the Guru.  They would say: “the Ghaddi is the supreme.  Guru ji sits on it but does bad things.”  The devotional Sikhs would hear this and be upset.  There was nothing they could do.  They would worry and discuss with each other: “nobody can talk to Guru ji and tell him to stop.  They need to tell him that: “you shouldn’t do this.  Just as your father and grandfather behaved, that’s what you should do.”  Guru ji does not think about these things.  It’s like somebody has put him under a spell.”  The Sikhs discussed in this way, the ones that were hurt from hearing the slandering.

The day of the wedding came close.  The Masands said to Guru ji: “we should invite the whole family and relatives.  This is a big task.  How can you forget about this?  The pots should be put on the fire and the Pakvaans should be made.  Please give us the command.  Mata Ganga ji, the wise one, she would instruct all the work.  She handled everything herself.  She would organize the celebrations.  Everyone did what she said.  Now, everything depends upon your command.  You should do all the tasks.  Give us your directions.”  Guru ji heard this and didn’t speak for a while.  He knew that a big obstacle was to come upon them.  There was a battle brewing.  Guru ji stayed quiet.  The omniscient Guru didn’t speak.  Everyone was surprised to see Guru ji’s behaviour.  They said: “we don’t understand what Guru ji is thinking.” 

Guru ji went to his home and sat on his bed.  Mata Damodri ji came to him and spoke about their daughter’s wedding: “why aren’t you making the preparations?  It is a big task, everyone knows this.  You should have the cooking started.  You should also send the invitations out.”  Sri Satguru ji heard this and said: “start making the sweets and the Pakvaans.  Don’t call the family and relatives yet.  Make all of the other preparations.”  Mata Damodri ji heard this and was surprised.  She thought to herself: “what is he saying?  He wants to start the cooking but doesn’t want to invite the family yet.”  Mata Damodri ji had the sweets made and gathered in one place.  People found it odd that the preparations were being done but the family wasn’t called.  They said: “he didn’t call the family.  This is another new tradition.  He has let go of the ways of the family.”  Mata Damodri ji asked Guru ji many times about this but Guru ji did not give a response.

One day, Sikhs were gathered near Bhai Gurdas ji.  They sat and spoke to him.  Bhai Badli Sodhi ji, Bhai Seth Gopala ji, Bhai Takhtoo ji, Bhai Teerath ji, Bhai Navlu ji, Bhai Nihala ji, Bhai Kishan ji, Bhai Jait ji, Bhai Tiloka ji and Bhai Tulsiya ji; all of the Sikhs that stayed with Guru ji along with others; folded their hands to Bhai Gurdas ji and said: “people are speaking bad about Guru ji.  We can’t tolerate it.  We feel worried.  You and Baba Bhudda ji are the seniors.  You were the great Sikhs of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  The other Sikhs with great patience, Guru ji does not meet with them.  Guru ji keeps Painday Khan, the impure, with him.  He keeps him close to him and gives him a lot of love.  Guru ji goes to Bibi Kaulan ji.  People see these things and speak bad about him.  Bhai Gurdas ji, you were with Guru Arjan Dev ji.  Why don’t you speak to him and make him understand the situation?”  Bhai Gurdas ji heard this and uttered a Pauri from his own Vaars:

The previous Gurus considered that to give instructions and to preach to the people, one has to sit in one place, the Dharamsala.  This Guru does not.

The previous Emperors would visit the home of the Guru, but this Guru was made by the Emperor to stay in the fort.

The Sangat cannot see or find him in the home.  He keeps moving.  He is fearless and does not scare anyone.

The previous Gurus sat on the seat of contentment.  This Guru keeps dogs and goes hunting.   

The previous Gurus sang Bani and made the Sangat listen to it.  This Guru does not recite, listens to or sings Gurbani. 

This Guru does not keep his servants close to him.  Instead, he keeps the wicked and envious ones close to him.

The truth is never concealed.  The Sikhs hover over his feet like bees hover over a lotus flower.

He tolerates everything and keeps his power hidden.  He does not show himself to anyone..24..

(Bhai Gurdas ji Vaar 26)

Don’t worry about anything.  See the Guru as the full Brahm.  He is the Avatar of Sri Parmeshwar.  You can’t understand his ways or his glories.  Krishan ji broke many traditions.  He wasn’t shy from anyone.  The unwise slandered him.  The Ishwar is detached from everything.  If you still want to say something to him and get rid of your doubt, go and make a request to Baba Bhudda ji.  Only he can say what needs to be said.”  The Sikhs said: “you should come with us to Baba Bhudda ji’s.  You can do his Darshan with us.  We can bring him and have him speak to Guru ji.”  Bhai Gurdas ji got up and went to Baba Bhudda ji with the Sikhs.

At the Bir of Baba Bhudda ji, there was a small hut in which Baba Bhudda ji lived in.  His consciousness was focused into the Oneness of the universe.  Everyone came and bowed to him.  They were humble.  They folded their hands and said: “Baba ji, destroy our worries.  You should see this as the right thing.  We can’t tolerate the slandering of Guru ji.  We have come to your sanctuary.”  They all spoke to Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji gave his account of the situation as well.  Baba Bhudda ji heard this and said: “don’t accuse the omnipotent one.  He is never at fault.  They can do as they please.  Don’t have doubt in your hearts.  The Guru is not affected by any action.”  Everyone said: “what you say is true but we are not at peace.  The 4 Varnas, the 4 Ashrams, and Turks; everyone is speaking bad about Guru ji.  Please come with us and speak to Guru ji.  Have the two Turks leave.  At least have Kaulan leave the Sangat of Guru ji.  She should leave.”  Bhai Gurdas ji then spoke: “the Sikhs have come to your shelter.  I tried to tell them the truth but you need to fulfill their wish.”  Baba Bhudda ji was compassionate and got ready to go and see Guru ji.  Baba Bhudda ji travelled with the Sikhs to Amritsar.  They spoke together on the way.

5-66 Establishing Bibeksar

Baba Bhudda ji was taken by Bhai Gurdas ji to Amritsar.  They reached Amritsar from Bir Baba Bhudda ji.  Baba Bhudda ji, Bhai Gurdas ji and the Sikhs bathed at the Sarovar.  They bowed at Harmandhir Sahib ji and did its Parkarma.  When the news spread that Baba Bhudda ji had arrived, everyone in Amritsar stopped what they were doing and came to see Baba ji.  Baba ji met the people and asked them: “where is Satguru ji right now?”  The people said: “you are omniscient Baba ji.  He has gone hunting right now.  He has gone towards the east direction.”  Baba Bhudda ji heard this and was filled with love.  The Sangat and Baba Bhudda ji headed towards the east. 

There were many trees in the east.  There were Beri and pipal trees in great quantities.  Baba ji reached Ramsar as he travelled, where Guru Granth Sahib ji was scribed.  Baba Bhudda ji sat down there with the Sikhs.  He told a few Sikhs to go and give a message to Guru ji: “come to Ramsar and meet me.” 

Satguru ji was hunting.  He had killed many animals and was on his way back with his army.  His horse was strong and clever that danced as it rode.  The Sikhs met Guru ji 3 km away.  They all bowed to his lotus feet.  They folded their hands and said: “Guru ji, Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji have come to meet you.  They all bathed at Amritsar.  When they heard you went hunting, they all came to Ramsar Sahib.  They are there now.”  The omniscient Guru understood everything.  He knew why Baba Bhudda ji was here.  Guru ji said to Bhai Takhtoo ji: “how long has Baba ji been here?  How many Sikhs did he bring with him?”  Bhai Takhtoo ji said: “Prabhoo ji, I came as soon as we got there.  It has been about an hour.  20 Sikhs, along with Bhai Gurdas ji, came.”  Satguru ji came with Bhai Takhtoo ji to Ramsar.  Guru ji saw Baba Bhudda ji and got off his horse.  Baba Bhudda ji saw Guru ji and stood up.  He grabbed his cane and walked towards Guru ji, drenched in love.  He had gone really old and lost a lot of his strength but his Sikhi was still determined.  He had wished to see the feet of the Guru.  As he tried to touch Guru ji’s feet, Guru ji grabbed his hands.  They both bowed to each other.  Guru ji held Baba Bhudda ji’s hands and walked over to the edge of the Ramsar Sarovar.  They sat down and Guru ji spoke: “what was the reason of your visit?  If you would have called for me, I would have met you at the Bir.  You gave your body trouble by coming here.  It is the month of Jeth, so it is really hot.  Why did you suffer so much and come?”  Baba Bhudda ji said to Guru ji: “you are the master.  You are omniscient.  You know every heart.  The Sikh Sangat of the Guru told me to come.  They want to make a few requests and that is why I am here.  You are the destroyer of pain of your servants.  This is the reason why you came to earth.  You are illuminated in the world.  The sun’s rays reach everywhere and are never dirtied.  Pure and impure things get burned in the fire but the fire is never dirty.  It is never at fault.  Not even one fault.  That is how your way is.  The wise ones understand this.  The world sees your “humanly play,” and fall into doubt.  The foolish ones slander you.  The Sikhs hear the slandering and get upset.  They fight with the slanderers and become upset.  Arguments and fight are breaking out because of this.  Bless your Sangat and give them peace.  I plead on their behalf.”  Guru ji said to Baba Bhudda ji: “you are generous and compassionate.  You take pain on your body for the good of others.  Whatever you command, I will do.  I don’t disobey anything you say.  There is nothing that can’t be given to you.  I am under your command, day and night.”  As everybody listened, Baba Bhudda ji said: “you are always under the spell of love.  You know how much Tapasya Kaulan had done to be with you.  You fulfilled her wish from her Bhagti as her Tapasya of 100 births came to fruition.  I told you to go and get her.  You listened to my words and brought her home.  Now, it is time to let her go.  She received the rewards of her Tapasya.  The Sangat has thought about this and brought this request to you.”  Bhai Bidhi Chand ji and Bhai Jetha ji heard this.  They heard the slandering of the Guru as well.  The warriors that were with Guru ji, they saw an opportunity and spoke their minds: “Baba Bhudda ji is the most senior.  He has done the Darshan of 6 Satgurus.  His words are deserving of respect.  He speaks the truth.  People are speaking bad about you.  There are a lot of slandering words about you, going around.”  Guru ji understood everyone’s wishes.  The Sikhs had come with wisdom.  They have made the good decisions.  Guru ji spoke: “listen Baba Bhudda ji, I only brought Kaulan ji because of your words and because of her Tapasya.  She did not follow the Islamic traditions but recited Sukhmani Sahib instead.  These are the reasons for her coming here.  I can see that the reason why you are telling me to let her go is because her age is now complete.  She will live for 15 more days.  She will leave without being let go.  There is no doubt.  When events are about to take place, the words automatically come from your mouth.  Just as the Brahmastar of Raghubir (Sri Ram Chander) never misses or goes empty, your words are never without meaning.  The Bibek (wisdom) that you have applied is good.  Command me.”  Everyone heard Guru ji’s wise, loving and humble words.  Everyone was happy.  It was like joy was raining on them. 

Guru ji and Baba ji held hands and walked about 50 feet away.  They were alone.  Baba ji said: “this Bibek will be heavy.  You are the benevolent form.  Make a Sarovar here which will be in your remembrance.  Call it “Bibeksar.”  If a Sikh’s Rehit gets spoiled, they can bathe in this Sarovar and become pure again.  If anyone else has wishes in their heart and bathes here, from your radiance their wishes will be fulfilled.  Many Bibekis (wise people) will live here.”  This was the 5th Sarovar of Amritsar (Santokhsar, Amritsar, Ramsar, Kaulsar and Bibeksar).  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard Baba Bhudda ji’s words and tied his Kumerkassa.  He asked for a shovel and started to dig the Sarovar right away.  He dug the soil and threw it to the side.  Many Sikhs started to do the Seva of the Sarovar.  They earned Seva by digging the soil.  Some used baskets and some used their own clothes to transfer the dirt.  The warriors of the Guru’s army also did the Seva at Bibeksar.  They did it with great enthusiasm.  They wanted to make Guru ji happy.   It was evening and Guru ji said: “you can stop now.  Great, wise and powerful Sikhs will live here.  They will be Bibekis.  In time, the Sarovar will be made permanent.” 

Guru ji mounted his horse and had Baba Bhudda ji sit in a palanquin.  Everyone bathed and then went to Harmandhir Sahib to bow.  Baba Bhudda ji’s Dhera was set in the Dharamsala.  The Sikhs talked to each other with joy: “Kaulan’s situation is at rest now.  Baba Bhudda ji has said his words.  They will be followed.  His words are permanent.  Guru ji listened to Baba Bhudda ji and brought her here first and now he listened to him and let her go.  The Sumer Mountain may move but Baba ji’s words do not.”  Guru ji went to his home and went to sleep in peace.  In the morning, Guru ji went to do the Darshan of Baba Bhudda ji. 

Baba Bhudda ji went back to the Bir and sat in the Samadhi of Oneness.  He was in the constant state of bliss.  There was no change in his focus.  He had great powers but never showed them to anyone, unless he had to.  He stayed in solitude and attached his focus to his Samadhi.  There was Seva and Simran.  Guru ji did a lot of tasks.  He fulfilled the wishes of his Sikhs.  Everyone loved Guru ji, whether they were rich or poor.  Guru ji knew how much everyone loved him.  He knew every heart.  To fulfill the wishes of his Sikhs, he did such tasks.  If anyone praised him or slandered him, he didn’t care.  He was only under the spell of love. 

The next day, Guru ji told Painday Khan to take his mother (Mata Kaulan ji) to Kartarpur.  A well was dug at Gangsar Sahib.  After 15 days, Mata Kaulan ji knew it was her time to go.  She left her body and went to Sach Khand. 

Thus ends the 5^th Raas.