7-1 Manglacharan/ The Engagement of Sooraj Mal

Maya, the power of Akaal Purakh, is everywhere.  Akaal Purakh exists everywhere with the power in the same way, without any difference.  Akaal Purakh is Sat (ever-existing), Chit (consciousness) and Anand (bliss).  The truth and false is determined by those who are one with the Sachidananda. 

Chander is the one that gives taste to all the plants and vegetables; Sharda is the giver of knowledge.  The winter moon gives Amrit.  Sharda’s body is white like mercury.  She takes the pain and obstacles away.  She gives bliss.

Guru Nanak Dev ji; whoever was in his shelter, their curtains of doubt in the heart were ripped.  They were taken across the world ocean.  The minds, that were restless like mercury, their vices were pulled from the root (the Agyaan- the doubt).  Guru Nanak Dev ji supports the seeker with love.  Just like touching the philosopher’s stone makes metal to gold, Guru ji made the seekers into great beings. 

I bow to Guru Angad Dev ji, who by being bound to, the bonds of the world are destroyed.  The hands that touch his feet, their obstacles are destroyed.

The great and high, Sri Guru Amar ji, is the benevolent one.  He gave the ultimate status to his servants.  He blessed many.  He blesses forever.

Ramdas, Sri Satguru ji, destroys the fear of his servants.  The ones who have faith in him, he gives them the lake of joy.

The great benevolent one, the patient one, the mine of virtues, I bow to the feet of Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji.

Sri Guru Hargobind ji, the handsome one; like the moon, he gives bloom to the servants and makes the enemy wilt.

Sri Guru Har Rai ji destroys the pains of his servants.  He is generous and fulfills the wishes of his servants like Hari. 

Sri Satguru Har Krishan ji, please give me the wisdom of Gurmat.  Please destroy the vices in my heart.  May my attention be focused in the Satnam.

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji, the courageous one, the patient one; for the benefit of others, he gave his respectable body like it was a piece of grass.  He didn’t care for his body. 

There have been kings like Timer Lung and his generations.  They ruled for many generations.  The four directions bowed to them.  There was no opposition.  Other warriors were all defeated.  They had unlimited armies and treasures.  They had many huge castles.  Nobody could count their worth.  Who would have known that Guru Gobind Singh ji and his Panth would have destroyed it all? 

I bow to the lotus-feet of the 10 Satgurus, which are the root of joy.  I fold my hands and bow to them.  I begin the 7^th Raas. 

I bow to the Sikhs of the Guru and saints.  I bow to their feet and write the great praises of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, who is the granter of all the wishes. 

The Engagement of Baba Sooraj Mal ji

The benevolent, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was sitting with the Sangat and was blessing them.  He was giving them joy.  The faithful would come and have their wishes fulfilled.  Some just came to see the handsome face of the Guru.  They would have their lives become a blessing.  The ones that came with good will wishes, their wishes were fulfilled.  Bhai Sai Das ji would stay with Guru ji.  His wife, Bibi Ramo ji, was the elder sister of Mata Damodri ji.  Bhai Sai Das ji was sitting with Guru ji and having discussions with him.  It was the Diwali Mela and so; many Sikhs came from all around to visit.  The head Masands would bring the Sangat to Amritsar.  They would gather the Dasvands and bring them from their areas.  The Sangat found out about Baba Atal Rai ji going to Sach Khand.  The Sangat came to give their condolences as well.  There were bigger crowds than before because of this.  The Sangat brought their Dasvands.  They would all come to meet Satguru ji first and pay their respects and condolences.  They would speak to Guru ji about Baba Atal Rai ji.  They would then place their gifts and money in front of Guru ji.  They would fold their hands and do an Ardaas.  Guru ji would bless them. 

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji sat at Akaal Takhat.  The Sangat came there and brought horses, money and weapons; along with other gifts.  There was a big crowd near Akaal Takhat.  Thousands stood and did Darshan of Guru ji.  The senior Masands were standing in the Divaan.  The Mevra did all the Ardaas of the Sangat.  The warriors sat in the Divaan.  Sri Bhagwan ji was sitting in the middle of them, looking radiant.  The weapons that came as gifts, Guru ji would start looking at them right away.  Baba Bidhi Chand ji, Bhai Jheta ji and others were standing around the Sodhi leader.  Bhai Gurdas ji was speaking to Guru ji sometimes.  Sometimes Guru ji would look towards the Sangat and bless them with his vision.  Sri Baba Gurditta ji was standing near Guru ji.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji was standing on the other side of Guru ji.  Baba Ani Rai ji was sitting near Guru ji.  He was in the Brahmgyaan state all the time.  The Sikhs came continuously.  The Rababis sang Shabads.  The fortunate Sikhs were listening to and understanding the Gurbani.  Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji was sitting in the lap of a Servant, in attention.  Guru ji was fulfilling everyone’s wishes.  He gave everyone joy in many ways.  The Sangat was really happy being in the company of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.

A Khatri named Bhai Prem Chand ji came.  He had his son with him as well.  He had a pretty and virtuous daughter.  He was trying to find a handsome boy to marry her.  When Bhai Prem Chand ji came, he looked towards Baba Sooraj Mal ji.  He was 6 feet tall at a very young age.  He was radiant and handsome.  He wished to have his daughter married to him.  He folded his hands and said to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji: “Maharaj, please listen to my Ardaas and fulfill it.  I am from the Sili clan of Khatris and live in Kartarpur.  My daughter is 9 years old.  I wish to present her as Baba Sooraj Mal ji’s servant.  Please make her your servant.  We are the servants of the servants of your servants.”  Guru ji looked towards Baba Bidhi Chand ji.  Baba Bidhi Chand ji understood Guru ji’s wish.  Baba Bidhi Chand ji smiled and had Bhai Prem Chand ji sit near Guru ji.  Baba Bidhi Chand ji said: “do your Ardaas without fear.  The house of the Guru gives respect.  Guru ji does not care about someone’s wealth or caste.  The Sikh can do anything with love.”  Bhai Prem Chand ji heard this and felt at ease. 

The Jyotishi (astrologer) was called and an auspicious day was found.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji was seated on a stool.  Guru ji had the Shehnais and Dhundhabs played.  The Napheeryas and other instruments began to play in various Raags.  The 3 mothers, [Mata Mahadev ji (also known as Mata Marwahi ji- the mother of Baba Sooraj Mal ji), Mata Damodri ji and Mata Nanaki ji], of Baba Sooraj Mal ji came along with the other women of the house.  They were all congratulated by the women of Amritsar.  The dhols and other folk instruments played.  The women of the city, with sweet voices, began to sing the songs of joy.  The celebration began.  Satguru ji was sitting and overlooking the engagement.  The Sikhs bowed to Guru ji.

Bhai Prem Chand ji was really happy.  He saw his daughter as very fortunate.  He bowed to Guru ji.  Guru ji gave him a lot of respect.  His daughter’s (Mata Khem Kaur ji’s), and Baba Sooraj Mal ji’s wedding was fixed on a date that was determined by the Jyotishi.  Mata Khem Kaur ji was the friend of Mata Gujri ji as they were both from Kartarpur. 

The Brahmin Pandha did all of the traditions of the engagement.  The Navgreh, Ganpati and Vishnu Poojas were performed.  The Brahmin then got up after he finished, by the permission of Guru ji.  Guru ji then met with Bhai Prem Chand ji.  The traditional “Chhuhara,” dry date, was fed to Baba Sooraj Mal ji to symbolize the proposed union.  A mark of Kumkum and saffron was placed on Baba Sooraj Mal ji’s forehead.  A great celebration began.  Ladoos and other sweets were made and distributed to everyone.  Everyone saw the celebration and felt the joy.  The beggars and poor people were given a lot of donations.  They took their donations and sang the praises of the Guru. 

Baba Prem Chand Sili ji completed the engagement ceremony and went back to his village with joy.  He told his family and relatives about the new relationship.  There was a celebration in their village.  Everyone was happy. 

Satguru ji completed the Mela and gave leave to the Masands and their Sangat.  Siropas were given to the Masands as they left.  They all went back to their lands.  They were all in bliss.  Wherever they went, they sang the praises of Guru ji. 

Bibi Ramo ji and Bhai Sai Das ji folded their hands and did an Ardaas: “please give us permission: we have been here for many days.  We wish to go to our home now.  We ask that you come to our area now.  The Sikhs in our area wish to see you.”  Satguru ji thought about the future and knew that there was an event that was to take place.  Guru ji smiled, thinking about it, and said: “I came to your home before and stayed there for a long time.  I will come again.  Just wait a little while.  I will come for sure.  Your love does not let me stay.”  The 3 mothers, including Mata Damodri ji, all met Bibi Ramo ji.  Bibi Ramo ji bowed to all 3 mothers.  Bibi Ramo ji and Bhai Sai Das ji went back to their village of Daroli, Moga.  They would constantly think of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  They woke up during Amritvela everyday and did Simran of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.

Baba Gurditta ji understood Guru ji’s command and left for Kartarpur.  He received the permission to go and got ready to leave along with Mata Natti ji and baby Baba Dheermal ji.  Mata Natti ji met her 3 mothers-in-law and bowed to them.  She was going to be the mother of Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib ji.  She was a very pure and humble soul.  They started their journey towards Sri Kartarpur Sahib, Jalandhar.  They arrived in Kartarpur and lived in joy.  The descendants of Baba Dheermal still live there today.

7-2 Bhai Gurdas ji buys Horses

Listen, oh Daas’s (servants) of the Guru, to the Katha of Bhai Gurdas ji.  The Maya of the Guru is very difficult.  It is hard to cross it.  Decide for yourself. 

One day in the Divaan of Guru ji, there were very faithful and devoted Sikhs sitting there.  Sikhs like Bhai Bhagtoo ji, Bhai Behlo ji, Bhai Jetha ji, Bhai Bidhi Chand ji, Bhai Gurdas ji and others were sitting.  Bhai Gurdas ji was the wise one.  Discussions on Sikhi were taking place.  The Sikhs said: “if Guru ji is compassionate, he can save the Sikh from the Maya.  If the Guru wishes, the mind can focus its attention onto the feet of the Guru.  Only that person can pass the test of the Guru, whom the Guru wishes.  The character and ways of the Guru cannot be quantified or thought of.  The Sikhs may start thinking but fall towards doubt.”  Bhai Gurdas ji then spoke, sitting amongst everyone: “if the Sikh is close to the Guru and follows the path of Sikhi, if they have faith on the Guru, it doesn’t matter what happens, the Sikh should not fall in doubt.  If the Guru tests the Sikhs by creating a drama; by disguising himself; by changing his voice; by changing his character; make his servant do something unusual; do something or say something that has not been done before, the Sikh should keep his/her faith solid.  The Sikh passes the test and does not fall prey to its mind.”  Bhai Gurdas ji wrote a line in his writings: “if a Guru starts a drama, the Sikh should stay firm and not loose faith.”  The Sikhs heard this and said: “what you say is true, but still, the Maya of Guru ji is strong.  Who has never fallen by its illusion?  To keep the faith firm is difficult.  The ones who lived in the jungle and did Tapasya: Munnis, Devatas, Gandarvs and countless others, the Maya of Prabhoo has put them all in doubt.  Without the support and help of the Guru, nobody passed.”  Bhai Gurdas ji heard this and said another line, which is in his Bani: “if the sky rips, the liars say that they sewed it back up.  The lower ones leave their faith in this way.  The Sikh that is planted in Sikhi, they should keep faith, ingrained into their hearts.  They should do what it takes to keep the mind still and remain planted into Sikhi.  One should never waiver.” 

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard this discussion and thought to himself: “the other Sikhs want the support of the Guru but Bhai Gurdas ji talks about the Sikh’s own faith.  He still has the seed of ego inside of him.  This ego is a very bad thing, it can make one waiver.  He stays with me but he still has ego.  I should pull the root of ego out of him.  If this ego is not destroyed, that is not a good thing.  I need to destroy it.  I will test him.  Let’s see if he passes or not.  I will need to do a drama.  He is a great Sikh but has a little ego left.  Only the test will show the results.”  Guru ji thought about this and said to all: “if there are horses for sale, I wish to buy nice ones.  I want some for myself and some for the army.  The warriors need some nice horses.”  The Sikhs all heard this.  The Sikhs said: “Dhannighep has great horses.”  Many people talked about other places and breeds.  One said: “if we go, we will find some good ones.”  Whatever information they had, they spoke.  Guru ji was not amused with anyone’s suggestion.  There was a warrior who was from Kabul.  He folded his hands and said: “the type of horses you want, they can be bought from Kabul.  They would be good for you to ride.  Send some wise people there who can find the good ones.  Those horses are clever and fast.  They are very expensive as well.  We can spend the money and buy them.”  Guru ji liked that idea.  He was well aware of the Kabul horses.  Guru ji said: “that is true.  Those are the most expensive ones.”  Guru ji looked towards Bhai Gurdas ji and said: “who is wiser than you?  You’ve spent a long time with the elder Gurus and have all the wisdom.  Find and buy good horses.  Find two for me.  They should be strong and fast.  They should be clever ones.  Buy the best for the army as well.  Take as much money as you need from the treasury.  First send the horse to me and then you can pay for them.  I will test them first and tell you to pay for them if I like them.  You can stay in Kabul till then.  When you get my message, you can pay and come back.”  Bhai Gurdas ji obeyed and said: “I will go and get them.”  Guru ji loaded the carts with money.  He gave him 50,000 Rajitpuns from the treasury.  Many Sikhs were sent along with Bhai Gurdas ji.  Soldiers were sent with him.  Bhai Gurdas ji bowed and left. 

Bhai Gurdas ji would rest the night and travel the day.   He travelled west and asked about where he could buy horses from.  He crossed the Airavati (Ravi) and then reached the Chandrabhaga (Chenab).  He then crossed the Jhelum and came to the Sindh.  He crossed Peshawar and reached Kabul.  He set up his Dhera and found out about Saudagars selling horses.  He found out about some sellers and went to inquire the next day.

Bhai Gurdas ji saw some horses that were strong and faster than the wind.  He asked about the price and the total was 50,000 Rajitpuns.  Bhai Gurdas ji said: “consider this transaction confirmed but I will pay you when Guru ji approves of them.  I need to sent them to Guru ji first.  When he sends a messenger, I will pay for them.  You will be paid right away.”  The merchants said: “these horses don’t have any faults.  They are strong and full of virtues.  You can send them to Guru ji.  We are without a doubt.  He will surely like them.  If he likes them, we will take the money from you.”  The horses were sent to Amritsar, Bhai Gurdas ji stayed in Kabul. 

The horses were shown to Guru ji once they came.  Guru ji was really happy with the horses.  He mounted them and rode them himself.  He tested their walks and trots.  The senior Sikhs also tested them out.  The best ones were tied in the special stables.  The wise Sikhs were sent to Kabul with a message.

The Sikhs came to Kabul and said to Bhai Gurdas ji: “Satguru ji liked the horses.  He has commanded to pay for them.  He really liked all of them.  Guru ji wants you to pay the Saudagars and thank them.  He wants you to come back.”  Bhai Gurdas ji was happy to hear this.  He sent a person to call the Saudagar.  When the Saudagar came, Bhai Gurdas ji had him sit with respect.  He said: “Guru ji has told me to pay you for the horses.” 

Bhai Gurdas ji went to his tent and opened up one of the boxes he had with money.  He opened the lock with the key and looked inside.  He put his hands in the box, but the silver coins had all turned into clay chips.  He checked the other boxes and got the same result.  The Guru had casted his Maya.  Bhai Gurdas ji saw the silver coins himself when he left Amritsar.  He was shocked to see this.  There were 5 mules with a cart each.  Each cart had 10 boxes.  He checked them all.  They were all clay chips.  There was not a single Rajitpun.  He got worried and thought: “what happened?  Nobody knows.  Why did Guru ji send this?  Did something else happen?  Was I robbed?  It is the kingdom of Turks here.  They don’t care about anyone else.  The Saudagar will want his money.  If I run away, I will be saved.  Otherwise I will be caught.  If I go to Guru ji, I will be caught.  He will ask me where the money went.  I was the one with the keys.  I can’t go to Guru ji now.”  Bhai Gurdas ji came out of his tent and said to the Saudagar: “wait a little while longer.  I need to count the money.  I will be quick but it will take some time.  Sit down here.”  Bhai Gurdas ji had him sit.  He went back to his tent.  The Saudagar was waiting for his money.  He thought Bhai Gurdas ji was counting.   Bhai Gurdas ji, the scholar of Vedas, Shastras, Smritis and many other skills, could not figure a way out of this.  The Maya of the Guru caught him.  Bhai Gurdas ji ripped the tent from the back left.

Bhai Gurdas ji travelled all day long, hiding himself.  He thought to himself: “where should I go?  I will not go to Guru ji.  I will go to Kanshi.”  He dressed in light saffron robes like a saint.  Nobody could recognize him.  He reached Kanshi in a few days.  He was worried of being recognized.

The Saudagar that was waiting in Kabul, sat for a long time, he got tired after a few hours.  He said: “I can’t hear anyone inside!  I’ve been sitting here for 4 and a half hours.”  The Saudagar went inside the tent and saw silver coins scattered everywhere.  Confused, the Saudagar found some of the Sikhs that were with Bhai Gurdas ji and said to them: “the Bhai Sahib is not here but the coins are all scattered on the floor.  Where did he go?”  The Sikhs were shocked.  They collected the money and counted 50,000 Rajitpuns.  They paid the Saudagar and sent him on his way.  After the payment, the Sikhs wondered: “where did Bhai Gurdas ji go?”  The Sikhs packed up and headed back to Amritsar.  They didn’t understand where Bhai Gurdas ji went: “he scattered the money and left.” 

The Sikhs arrived in Amritsar.  They met Satguru ji and told him what happened: “we don’t know where Bhai Gurdas ji disappeared to.  He left the money in the tent and disappeared.”  Satguru ji understood what was going on.  It was his Maya in play that put a Brahmgyaani in doubt.  He knew why Bhai Gurdas ji ran away.  Guru ji made the money look like clay chips to Bhai Gurdas ji.  He ran away without seeking the support of the Guru.

7-3 Bhai Gurdas ji in Kanshi

When Bhai Gurdas ji left Kabul, it was winter.  He would walk everyday and get tired.  He didn’t have too many clothes with him.  It was getting cold.  If he would have extra luggage, it would be hard to carry all that.  Sometimes he would get food and sometimes he would remain hungry.  He would travel many miles everyday on foot.  After enduring so much of a harsh climate and walking so much, his body became weak.  He had never been in such trouble in his life before.  He got blisters on his feet as he was old.  He would walk everyday and travel.  He reached the place of Shiva in a few days.  He reached Shivpuri, Kanshi (Banaras, Varanasi).  He reached the place where Chetan Matt Gurduara is now.  He rested there.  There were many homes of Sikhs in Kanshi.  The Sikhs that came, they recognized Bhai Gurdas ji.  They were happy to see him.  They folded their hands and served him.  They washed his feet with warm water.  They were excited and did his Seva with joy and devotion.  They brought him delicious foods to eat.  The king of Banaras loved the Sikhs and Guru ji.  His ancestor was revealed the Guru Granth Sahib ji by Guru Nanak Dev ji, before they were scribed.  He knew the glory of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  When the King found out that Bhai Gurdas ji had arrived, he called Bhai Sahib ji to his home. 

The Raja of Banaras had Bhai Gurdas ji sit on a high seat, higher than his own throne.  He bowed to him and said: “tell me the Katha of the Guru.”  Bhai Gurdas ji saw the devotion of the Raja and said: “the Satguru lives in Amritsar.  Saying his name or seeing him makes all the pain go away.”  He wrote Guru ji’s praises in his Bani and said it to the Raja.  The Raja was really happy to hear it.  He had a special place made within the palace.  Bhai Gurdas ji was the wisest scholar within Kanshi.  He was a scholar of: the 4 Vedas, 6 Shastras, 27 Smritis, 18 Puranas, 9 Vyakaranas and had them memorized.  He was fluent in Sanskrit, Farsi, Urdu and Punjabi.  He became famous in Kanshi.  The Sikhs said to the Raja: “Guru Ramdas ji and Guru Arjan Dev ji; Bhai Gurdas ji had stayed with them.  He now serves Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  He is the nephew of Guru Amardas ji.  His glory is like the Gurus.  He has stayed with the Guru for a long time.  He has connected many Sikhs to Bani and made them blessed.”  The Raja’s devotion became deeper as he heard this.  He wished to take the Pahul from the feet of Bhai Gurdas ji.  He had a lot of Panchamrit prepared and called Bhai Gurdas ji to him.  He folded his hands and said: “please give me the Pahul and make me into a Sikh.”  Bhai Gurdas ji agreed and gave him the Charanpahul.  Love illuminated into the heart of the Raja. 

As the Raja became a Sikh, the glory spread within Banaras.  Many other people became Sikhs as well.  Many Sikhs came on a daily basis.  Bhai Gurdas ji became the “Raj Guru,” the Royal Guru, of the Raja.  Many became his Sikhs.  Thousands became Sikhs in Banaras.  They all sang the glories of the Guru.  The Raja would call Bhai Gurdas ji everyday and would have him recite Gurbani.  The Raja would listen to the translations of Gurbani with great devotion.  He would feel blessed in his heart.  Bhai Sahib ji would speak with such love and wisdom that everyone would fall in love with the Guru.  He would do Katha, sitting near the Raja.  The Sangat would listen with a focussed attention.  The praises of Guru ji spread.  Many people would stay with Bhai Gurdas ji.  Everyone was allowed to come to the palace while Bhai Gurdas ji would do the Katha.  Bhai Gurdas ji had become the Guru of the Raja.  He was respected everywhere in Banaras. 

One day, the Brahmins, Pandits and Sanyasis all came to Bhai Gurdas ji.  About 40 to 50 of them came.  They wished to have discussions with the Guru of the Raja.  They wanted to bring Bhai Gurdas ji into their own religion.  They said: “this is the Shivpuri, where you are now.  Shiva did Tapasya here to establish this place.  If you die here, you will receive Mukti.  You should become the servant of Shiva.  You should sit in the meditation of Shiva.  Preach the Vedas and its Mantras.  Oh wise one, what benefits will you receive from the Guru?”  Bhai Gurdas ji heard them and said: “the Pativrata, chaste, woman does not look at other men, besides her husband.  If she leaves him and goes to other men, she will be slandered and go to Hell after dying.  She would be punished there.  It is the same way if one leaves their own Guru and goes to others.  That person is not honored in this world nor in the next one.  If the Guru is compassionate towards you, then everything is great.  If the Guru is upset with you, consider the world upset with you.”  Bhai Gurdas ji said a Svaiya to the Brahmins:

Svaiya-

If a calf is separated from its mother and goes to the nipple of another cow, that cow would kick the calf..

If the crane leaves the Mansarovar and goes to marshes, it cannot get the pearls..

If a servant leaves his Chakravarti Raja and goes to someone else, then he will be embarrassed..

In the same way, if a Sikh leaves the Guru and does the Seva of another Dev, that Devata cannot save the Sikh from the sins..

In this way Bhai Gurdas ji gave the Brahmins a response.  He destroyed their ego.  He had the faith in the Guru.  He showed them determination.  The Brahmins folded their hands and said: “oh mine of virtues, please help us get rid of our doubt.  Your wisdom is pure.  You are the highest of all the Brahmgyaanis.  Our doubt is: Ram, Gobind and other names have been written in the Smritis and Puranas.  Why did the son of Mata Tripta ji, Guru Nanak Dev ji, the Bhagavan, say a different name?  Tell us the deep meanings of the name: “Vahiguru.”    Give us the proof from the Vedas and Shastras to explain it.  Tell us your ideology.  Many Munis explained their ideologies and gave examples from the Vedas.  Secondly, your Granth is not according to the Vedas.  The people who follow your Granth, you call them a “Panth.”  They worship the Granth.  We know that you do not lie.  You give solid arguments.  Tell them to us.  All of us want to hear from you.  Thirdly, your Teerath is Amritsar.  In which Purana is the glory of that Teerath written about?  These are the doubts in our minds.  Nobody can clear our doubts for us other than you.” 

The wisest of all, Bhai Gurdas ji heard this and said: “the translation of “Vahi” is referring to the amazing and awesome form.  It is speaking about, whom the Vedas say “Nayt, Nayt.”  Through the process of elimination, you rid the lifeless atoms in front of you and determine that they are not the “One” the Aatma.  What remains from the elimination process is the pure Aatma.  That is what Vahi is in awe of.  Once one sees that Brahm, they do not see two.  The one who does not know that the Aatma is not the body, that person sees plurality in the world.  Knowing the One, one is in Nirvana.  They know that all is One.  There is no other.  They know that the One cannot be destroyed; cannot be described; cannot be thought of; cannot be reached; is infinite and without boundaries.  Shaishnaag could not fully describe the One.  Asuras, Devatas, small life forms, Brahma, and Munis call the One: the ultimate bliss, above everything.  The One cannot be known by wisdom, mind, desire, or word.  The end of the One cannot be found.  The One is only known by Gyaan.  The One lives in the hearts of the Tattveta Brahmgyaanis.  The meaning of “Guru,” is whom the Smritis and Shrutis reference as the one whose home is on the other side.  The Guru is above worry and fear.  There is no one like the Guru.  The Guru is omnipotent.  The Guru is the complete Prabhoo.  When the Jogis attain this omnipotent One, they are no longer in doubt and do not get stuck in desires.  Shiva has said that “Gu” means darkness.  The branches of the Vedas say that “Ru” is the full consciousness; the self-illuminating light.  The Guru is the one that shows the Jeev that: the Jeev is the pure Brahm; the pure, self-illuminating light.  That consciousness is the root of Gyaan.  Knowledge comes from that root.  The connected minds experience this, not the wandering minds.  The great Munis immerse into this fully-aware consciousness.  The Shoonvadhis call this the “Shoonya,” the nothingness.  The Brahmvadhis call this the “Brahm.”  The Kaalmatis call this the “Kaal.”  Many ideologies exist and refer to it in many ways.  The Sarguni Upashiks call this “Narayan,” who worship Ram Chander ji or Krishna ji.  The followers of Purav Mimamsa (written by Jamini), the Karma Kandis say this is the ultimate Karma.  They only do Karam Kaand.  There are some names by which a picture in the mind comes up, this is known as “Vaach Arth.”  “Lakshana Arth” refers to a description.  Akaal Purakh cannot be described nor named.  Being One with Akaal Purakh, there is nothing else left to achieve.  The Vedas say “Tatvamasi” (that, you are), Sri Guru ji says “Vahiguru.”  In that state, only the Brahm is seen.  Nothing else.  The 11 Rudras and 10 Avatars of Vishnu are all seen as the One.  The 9 meanings of Oankaar by the wise are seen as One.  The giver of 4 types of Muktis are seen as One.  The Simran of Vahiguru is like the “Kalapbrish,” the wish-fulfilling tree.  It is the Chintamani for the worrying ones.  The Vahiguru Mantra is ancient.  9 Yugas were spent on each letter.  It took Guru Nanak Dev ji 36 Yugas to complete the Mantra and bring bliss into the universe.  In Satyuga, the name was “Vasudev.”  In Tretayuga, the name of “Hari” gave the reward of being desireless.  In Dwapur, the name “Gobind” was the giver of radiance and victory.  In Kaliyuga, “Ram” is the only way to Mukti.  The Gyaan of the 4 Yugas was put together into “Vahiguru.”  This Name has been sung by the Vedas.  It is mentioned, but not deciphered.  That Vahiguru is our support.  The Plants, animals, grass and all life forms, the Ram is connected to everything, evenly.  There is nothing else besides this.  This is the translation and description of Vahiguru.  It is its own example.  It is the mine of virtues.  Mahadev has done this Simran with respect.  That person has been successful, who has done this Seva.  Their earnings have been successful.  The ones who have left these 4 letters and took on another support, they have left Amrit and attached themselves to dirt.  These letters are the seeds of all 4 Yugas.  It is the radiance of all 4 Yugas and therefore it is the highest.  It is the root to achieve Dharam, Arth, Kaam and Moksha.  The wealth of the world and Parmatma is illuminated by the Vahiguru Mantra.  Every object of the world, the 330, 000,000 Devatas are in these 4 letters.  Whoever wishes to achieve any object, they should do Simran of this.  Prabhoo can be achieved from this Mantra.  The glory of these letters cannot be said.  The ones who do Simran of this Mantra know its glory.  Guru ji has given the cream of everything in this Mantra.  The Vedas have sung the translation of this Mantra.”  The Brahmins heard this and said: “please tell us the Strotra (glory) of this Mantra, so we may sing it too.” 

Bhai Gurdas ji Vaach, Vahiguru Ustat.

The (Vishvaisung Vishv Mityukvung) writer of the mantra is the Ishwar of the world.  That is the form of the world.  It is the (Sanptay Vishv Bhookhanang) jewellery of the world (the box).  Vishv Bodhang- It has the knowledge of the world.  Svaiyung Brahm- It has appeared out of its own will.  I bow to the root of oankaar (the creator, sustainer and destroyer). 

The (varnavarn viheenaay) one that is above castes and creeds, (Ved saar Pravartvakah) the cream of the Vedas, (Visv Varg Mahidhisung) the giver of the 4 gifts, the master of the world, I bow to the “Vava,” Vasudeva word.

I bow to the “Haha,” Hari word, which is the cause of the world.  Hari Haraad Svayung Brahm Hans Bodh Prakashtung- It is the Brahm that gave knowledge to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv.  The knowledge illuminated to Brhama.  (Hastkhamal Vary Veejung Hakarang) It is self-illuminating; everywhere like space; maya exists inside of it.  I bow to it.

The sun of Gyaan (Gyaanarkung), the master of Bani (Giradheesang), older than the senses (Goteetang), the pure witnesser (Svat Saakhanung), without birth and death (Gamanaghumya Viheenay).  I bow to the “Gaga,” Gobind word.

The one that exists in all (Ram Veej), the cause of all, the Ishwar of the Devatas (Suraisvarung); the Devatas and demons bow to it (Dev Daitya Bhibanditang); the support of all (Sarv-vashruyang); the complete and ultimate power (Sar-ruvuv miti Shakti); I bow to the “Rara,” Ram word.

Itayv Maha Varanung- These four letters form the supreme word.  Bhaavnay Muhooramuhooh- The servants who have faith and devotion towards it; and do its simran, over and over again; Chatar Varg Phulung Daashya Sidhi- they receive the 4 gifts and all the powers.  Aiv na Sunshayah- there is no doubt in this.

7-4 Discussions with the Pandits in Kanshi

“This is the king of all the Mantras,” said Bhai Gurdas ji, in a summarized way.  He continued: “the ones who understand the summary of the Mantra, they are carried across this world ocean.  Listen to the answer to your second question of why was Guru Granth Sahib ji written: it is the ocean of gems.  It is the mine of unlimited virtues.  Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji is the Avatar of Parmeshwar.  Sri Keshav ji took on a form in the most undoubted form.  Guru Nanak Dev ji determined that the age in Kaliyuga of humans was less.   Yoga, yagna, Japp and Tapasya was difficult to do in Kaliyuga.  To establish the ancient Dharma, to continue the tradition of Dharma in the world, Prabhoo took on a form.  For the blessing of the humankind, Bhagawan established the tradition, suited for Kaliyuga.  The other ways did not work.  Vedas were written in Sanskrit, which was not prevalent for all.  Sanskrit was not understood by all.  They would spend their whole life in learning Sanskrit.  They had to learn Laghoo Sidhant, Nirukt, Kalp, Jyotish, Vyakarana, Pingal, Uchaaran and other books to understand it.  When would they be able to get the Gyaan of Prabhoo?  For the good of all, the benevolent Master uttered the Gurbani, which was easy to read and understand.  In the Bani, the Name and the Named is described as One.  He combined the path of the Word and the Consciousness into one.  In the world, the truth and false are combined.  Gurbani has described what truth is: the Name.  The false is everything else: the world, the relations, the attachment and all that moves.  The Aatma is the truth, the Maya is the false.  The deep knowledge of the Aatma has been relieved.  The ones who understand the truth and the false, they have been shown the Simran of the Satnam.  The Name is without form; the named is also without form.  The ones who connect to the Name, their consciousness immerses with the Prabhoo.  This knowledge has been easily shown in Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The ones who read it, become immortal and still.  The Vedas describe 3 Kaands: difficult Karma, Upasana and Gyaan.  Only rare people could become an expert in the Karma Kaand.  The people of Kaliyuga cannot get rid of their doubt by this.  The doubt: the disbelief that you are the Aatma, not the body.  If one ponders the meanings of Shastras and Vedas, one may be rewarded; but even visiting Guru Granth Sahib ji will give rewards of Dharma, Arth, Kaam and Moksha.  One should long to meet Guru Granth Sahib ji, day and night.  Their ignorance, sins and lack of knowledge is destroyed in an instance.  Doing Darshan of Guru Granth Sahib ji with faith and reading or listening to Bani with devotion is equal to millions of Yagnas.  By surrendering to Guru Granth Sahib ji, one becomes eligible for Moksha, like a flash of lightening.  The 16 types of Poojas by wise people, their pain from many births are washed away like the Ganga washing the sins away.  Brahma and other Devatas sing the praises of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Vishnu comes from Vaikuntha and showers flowers on to Guru Granth Sahib ji in the morning.  The Teeraths, Dijpals, Shaishnaag, Sharda and others bow to Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The form of Guru Granth Sahib ji is Amrit that washes the sins away.  It makes you deserving of Moksha.  It washes sins, pains and illnesses away.  It punishes their powers.  The home in which Gurbani is recited and sung; where Guru ji’s Gyaan is uttered, that home is Vaikuntha, where the radiance is never gone, even for a second.  They get all the Ridhis, Siddhis and wealth, where Gurbani is sung.  For this reason, let go of other Banis.  Guru Granth Sahib ji’s Bani is the supreme.  It destroys all of the doubts.  It destroys all of the sins of Kaliyuga.  It gives bliss.  I am speaking in a summary; the joy of the world resides in Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji is the Avatar of Brahmgyaan.  The Satguru says: “Guru Granth Sahib ji is my form.  It is the bridge to cross this world.” 

Bhai Gurdas ji goes on to answer the third question of the Pandits: “Oh Brahmins, the supreme Teerath on this Earth is the Philosopher’s stone.  It is Harmandhir Sahib.  Listen to its history.  It is the most ancient than other Teeraths.  When the Devatas and Daynts churned the sea to take out 14 gems, the Devatas and Daynts got into a fight.  They all wanted to take the best gems.  They all tried to claim possession on the gems.  Bhagavan took an Avatar as Mohani.  It was the most beautiful form of a woman.  She caught the attention of all.  The desire for the woman overtook their desire for the gems.  The Prabhoo then distributed the Amrit to whom he wanted to.  Prabhoo, the compassionate showed the drama.  Everyone was happy with what they got.  Parmeshwar made a beautiful form first.  Prabhoo wished to make a Mandir made of the gems.  The map was made.  At that time, Madhvi the Rishi, folded his hands and said: “give me the vessel of Amrit.  I wish to do Tapasya by its power.  I want to do a long one.”  The wielder of the Sharanga (the bow), gave him permission: “there is a place which is the best to do Tapasya.  Go there and do a strict Tapasya.  If you do a little Tapasya there, it will grow exponentially.  It is in the Panchaal Desh (Punjab).  It is the supreme Teerath.  It is called Sudhasur.”  Madhvi grabbed Parmeshwar’s feet and said: “you have never mentioned this Teerath before.  I have heard of the 68 Teeraths but not the Amritsar.  I have not seen it before.  Please show it to me, oh compassionate one.”  Mohini was distributing the Amrit and gems; and left the work to go with Madhvi.  Vishnu listened to his servant and went.  Vishnu did not take anyone with him.  He went alone, without Garud and Lakshmi.  The Prabhoo has beautiful eyes.  The Devatas all saw the Bhagavan leave alone.  They were all shocked and started to make noise.  The Devatas and Daynts followed Bhagavan.  They all reached the place of Amritsar.  They all saw the Amrit Sarovar.  The Prabhoo sits on his throne here with Lakshmi.  Hari faced east and said: “listen Madhvi, Brahamachaari, this is the Beri which gets rid of pain.  It gets rid of the 3 types of illnesses.  It is the mother.  In the middle is the king of the Teeraths where Keertan will happen, at all times.  This was hidden which I have shown.  At every 6 feet, all the powers stand here, with their hands folded.  They are under the command of Akaal Purakh, ready to do as they are commanded.  In the water, the 68 Teeraths will live here.  Place the Amrit here.  In Kaliyuga, it will come out again.  Sit near the Beri and do Tapasya.  This is the most ancient Teerath.  It is from when time did not begin.  It was hidden till now.  I showed it to you.”  Prabhoo sang the praises of this Teerath: “Dharam, Arth, Kaam and Moksha, will be received here by the people of Kaliyuga.  Their sins, by their mind, words and actions, will be washed away.  When I will be depressed in Vaikuntha, I will come and live here.  This Teerath is my body.  Oh Muni, Ganga and other waters are from my feet.  This Teerath is the seed of all Teeraths.  Amritsar is the permanent home of Akaal Purakh.  Whoever comes here, casually, they will get all of the 4 gifts, slowly.  If one does the Darshan of Amritsar, and someone else meets them, they will go to Sach Khand.  In the Ishaan (northeast) direction, there will be a tree.  In the south will be Shiva.  Varuna, Kuber, Inder and the Dijpals will stand here with their hands folded.  They will stand in their spots.  Brahma and others will do Seva here with devotion.  By my wish there will be the Khatpadh here.”  After saying this, Prabhoo called all of the Devatas to him.  They all came and did the 16 types of Poojas.  All of the Teeraths came in human form.  The ocean, Sumer Mountain, sky, wind, earth and fire all came with joy.  They were on their vessels and showered flowers while shouting Jaikaras.  Varuna, Kuber, Shaishnaag, Chander, Soorya, Kartik on the peacock, all of the powers in the space, water and earth came.  The Shrutis and Smritis took on a human form and came.  They folded their hands and said: “oh giver of joy to the Bhagats, command us.”  Prabhoo then said: “all of you shall live here forever.  This is the Kalapbrish of Akaal Purakh.  It is the king of the Teeraths.  Bathe in its waters.”  Ved Vyaas has written this Katha in the Bavish Purana.  The Devatas know about it.  The Devatas said: “which Mantra should we recite?”  The compassionate one then said: “listen all to the Mantra that gives you all of the rewards:

Om Amritodbhavaay Amritroopaay Teerathraajaay Namo Namah.

I bow to the Teerath which is made of Amrit.”

This is the powerful Mantra of Amrit.  It is secret and attained only with fate.  All of the Devatas then bathed.  They all sang the praises of the Teerath.  Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and their consorts all became the form of the Amrit.  Madhvi saw this and was amazed.  He said: “where did all of the Devatas go?”  The Prabhoo said to him: “they have all become one with the Teerath.”  The Rishi said: “please tell me the future.  Tell me what you will do in the other Yugas.”  The master of the 3 Loks said: “I will be Ram in Tretha.  I will come here with Luv and Kush.  All of the warriors will bathe here.  We will spread the pooja of this King of Teeraths.  I will do a Yagna on its west side.  The army of the 3 Loks will be with me.  My sons will establish 2 cities from here.  A lot of things will happen and the Teerath will be given respect.  In Dwapur I will be born as Krishna in the Yadhav clan.  I will be worshipped in the 3 Loks.  After I am done, I will emerge into the Amrit Sarovar.  In Kaliyuga, I will be the father of Sri Chand ji.  My form will be seen on the Earth in many ways.  After taking on 24 bodies, the glory will spread everywhere.  This place will be praised in all its glory.  It will be known as Amrit in the 3 Loks.  I will stay here to serve the Sarovar with the Devatas for many Yugas.”  Madhvi heard this and was very happy.  The words of Hari was like his feet.  Madhvi went into a Deep Samadhi with the vessel of Amrit.  As Prabhoo was leaving, Madhvi said: “when will you see me again?  I bow to you, oh breaker of bonds.”  Prabhoo said: “I will take the Avatar as Parmeshwar in Kaliyuga.  I will be double the size of the arrows of Kamadeva.  I will see you then.”  Prabhoo then disappeared.  He left without Lakshmi.”

The Brahmins of Kanshi heard this Katha from Bhai Gurdas ji.  They all bowed their heads onto the feet of Bhai Gurdas ji.  They sang his praises and said: “you have told us the hidden Katha.  May victory go to the wise and pure intellectual one, Bhai Gurdas.  We are now convinced.  Our doubts are gone.  You gave us examples from the Vedas.”  They all bowed at when to their homes.  Bhai Gurdas ji was praised in all of Banaras after this discussion.  The Raja was already his disciple, many other people of Banaras became his Sikhs as well.  The whole city sang Bhai Gurdas ji’s praises.  Everyone bowed to his feet and called him: “Guru ji!”  They would bring him many gifts.  The Raja served his Guru in many ways.  He would have his servants do Bhai Gurdas ji’s Seva.  Bhai Gurdas ji would do Katha of the Guru.  Everyone listened to him in peace.  His praises spread.  Bhai Gurdas ji was upset though.  He hadn’t seen the Guru for a long time.  His mind was suffering to see the Guru.  He had a lot of things for his comfort, sent by the Raja.  Delicious foods came for him.  A beautiful home was given to him.  He was given a palanquin to travel in.  Wherever he went, people bowed to him, including all of the scholarly Pandits.  He was still suffering.  Everything was dirt to him.  He was like the Chatrik looking for the Swanti drop, rejecting the water of the ocean.  He was like the wife without her husband.  All the material comforts and gifts he had were not giving him pleasure.  They were giving him pain.  His eyes were always shedding tears.  His mind was not at rest.  It was like a cheap person, losing all his money.  He was in pain.  He then thought of the Satguru.  When he would be alone, he would cry and do Ardaas to the Satguru: “oh omniscient Guru, Master, you are always forgiving of your servants’ mistakes.  You are the compassionate “Gareeb Nivaaj.”  You give power to the poor.  The kings and the poor call you “Gareeb Nivaaj.”  Please call me back to your presence.  I can’t come now.  You will have to call me, as I am guilty.  You are omnipotent.  Nothing is hidden from you.  You can do as you wish oh master.  You can create any situation by your will.  You can fix the spoiled and spoil the well.”  Bhai Gurdas ji wrote about his state in his Kabit Svaiyay, thinking of the Guru:

Kabit.  Just as the calf wishes to see its mother, it jumps with excitement to meet her but there’s a rope around its neck, and can’t do anything..

As a possessed person who wishes to go to his home, but can’t being under a spell, he worries and can’t go..

As a wife wishes to be with her husband all the time, she can’t be with him due to shyness and the family honour..

In the same way I wish to be in the company of the feet of the Guru but I do not have the permission to come, so I am suffering. 

Svaiya. Just as a fish wants the water, the Chatrik wants the Swanti drop.

The Lotus wishes for the sun, the poet sees the moon and is inspired by it.

Just as the elder brother scolds everyone but the family does not leave the love for him.

That is how my love is for the Guru, the Guru scolds me but my love goes deeper.

In this way, Bhai Gurdas ji wrote his Bani.  He would close his eyes and say it to the Guru.  In his mind, he would stand in front of the Guru and recite his Bani: “I have been separated form you due to my mistakes.  I am in another land.  I wish to see your lotus feet again.  Please bless me and give me your Darshan.  Forgive my mistakes.”  He would sit alone and do this Ardaas, over and over again.  He would think of Guru ji, day and night.  The Satguru was listening to Bhai Gurdas ji’s Ardaas.  He knew that the little ego that remained inside of him, was all gone now.  Bhai Gurdas ji was without any ego.

One day Guru ji was sitting in the Divaan and said to all: “I wonder where Bhai Gurdas ji is.  What was the reason that he didn’t return?  He went to go buy horses and didn’t come back.  Did something go wrong somewhere?  He’s spent his whole life in the Guru’s home.  He is the wisest.  He left without meeting me.  I didn’t say anything bad to him, ever.  Did anyone else hear about him?  Where did he go and why?”  Bhai Bidhi Chand ji and Bhai Jetha ji was sitting there, along with other Sikhs.  They folded their hands and said: “Guru ji, you know the past and future.  There is nothing hidden from you.  You know very well where he is and why.  You know where he lives now.”  Satguru ji heard this and went quiet.

The next day, Guru ji was in the Divaan.  Bhai Gurdas ji’s love got deeper and he became more anxious.  Satguru ji became more anxious as a result.  Guru ji couldn’t take it any longer.  He was under the love spell.  He couldn’t wait any longer.  He only thought of Bhai Gurdas ji, day and night.  He tried to wait a little longer so Bhai Gurdas ji’s love would go deeper, but Guru ji couldn’t tolerate Bhai Sahib’s suffering any longer.  He got ready to write a letter to be sent to Bhai Gurdas ji.

7-5 Bhai Gurdas ji comes back to Amritsar from Kanshi

The deep love that Bhai Gurdas ji had for Guru ji, pulled the mind of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Guru ji called a Mevra and prepared him to test Bhai Gurdas ji.  The Hukamnama was written: “Dear King of Kanshi, you are the Sikh of the Guru.  Listen.  A thief of the Guru is known to be staying with you.  He is living in Kanshi.  Find him and tie him up.  His name is Gurdas.  Arrest him and send him to me.  You will have the joy of the Guru if you do this.  Find him quickly and send him.”  The Mevra took the Hukam and went to Kanshi.

The Mevra came to where the Raja was in his court.  He gave the Hukamnama to the king.  The king took the Hukamnama and put it to his forehead in respect.  He read the letter and understood everything.  He said to his court: “who is it that has stolen something of the Guru?  He is in Kanshi.  Where could he be?  Find out.”  Everyone said: “we don’t know of such a person who may be a thief who did a theft in Amritsar.  We should find out who it is.”  The Raja had an announcement made in the city: “if someone has seen a thief of the Guru’s home, find him and send him to Guru ji.  There will be a reward for it.” 

Bhai Gurdas ji came into the court.  He sat on his high throne.  He did his Katha of Gurbani.  After he was done, the Raja said: “let me tell you about Guru ji: he sent me a Hukamnama.  A person came with it from Amritsar.  I read the Hukamnama.  It says: “a thief of mine is with you.  He lives in Kanshi.  His name is Gurdas.  Tie him up and send him to Amritsar.  This is the Guru’s task.  If you do it, the Guru will be happy with you.”  I have sent my men through the whole city but they haven’t found such a thief yet.”  Bhai Gurdas ji heard this and thought about it.  He understood what was going on.  He said to the Raja: “Guru ji is talking about me.  I have seen my vices.  I came here without telling him.  I am his thief.  I am a Bemukh, I turned my back to him.  My mistake is big.  Nobody can fix my mistake other than Guru ji.  He is compassionate and kept his promise to his servants.  He is calling me to forgive me.”  The Raja was shocked to hear this.  He said: “what are you saying?  How are you accepting this allegation?  He wants me to tie you up!  I sent my men to find the thief in the city.  It can’t be you.  His name must be the same as yours.  How can you do a mistake?  What would have you done?  You are a great and wise Sadhoo.  This must be someone else.  We will surely find this person soon.  If he his here, we will tie him up and send him to Guru ji.  If not, we will write back to Guru ji and tell him that there is no thief here.”  Bhai Gurdas ji said: “where is the Mevra that came from Amritsar?”

The Raja called for the Mevra that came from Amritsar.  When the Mevra came to the court, Bhai Gurdas ji recognized him.  The Mevra was surprised to see Bhai Gurdas ji.  He didn’t know which Gurdas he was sent for.  He bowed to Bhai Gurdas ji when he saw him.  Only Guru ji knew that Bhai Gurdas ji was in Kanshi.  The Mevra did not know.  He only knew that Bhai Sahib had been lost but he didn’t know he was in Kanshi.  They were both happy to see each other and asked how each other were.  They talked with love.  Bhai Gurdas ji then told the Raja the whole story: “Satguru ji has done all this to test me.  He sent me to Kabul.  He turned the 50,000 Rajitpuns to clay chips.  This was after the horses were sent to Amritsar.  I got worried.  I was in doubt and couldn’t figure out Guru ji’s Maya.  The Guru’s character and ways are unknown to humans.  Nobody can stand in front of his Maya.  He wants me to be tied up.  I ran away from Kabul.  I lost faith.  I am guilty.  This is a test as well.  I won’t be in doubt know.  I will do as he has written.  Do to me as you would do to a thief.  The theft that I did, I will ask for forgiveness.  You shouldn’t disobey the Guru.  Tie me up and send me to the soldiers.”  The people of the court were shocked to hear Bhai Sahib ji’s words.  They all said: “Dhan Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, your ways are unknown to us.”  Bhai Gurdas ji had to convince the Raja to tie him up.  After a lot of back and forth, the Raja finally agreed and had Bhai Gurdas ji tied up.  The Raja said: “take me with you.  I wish to meet the Guru Master.”  Bhai Gurdas ji gave him hope and said: “come after.  Don’t come with me.  It is not right for you to go with me.” 

Thousands of Sikhs of Kanshi got together.  Bhai Sahib ji gave them all hope.  The Sangat got ready to go with Bhai Gurdas ji.  He repeatedly told them not to go with him.  As he stopped them, 700 Sikhs still went with Bhai Gurdas ji.  They didn’t stop.  They wanted to see Guru ji.  Bhai Gurdas ji had his hands tied behind his back.  Others were shocked to see Bhai Gurdas ji leave in this way.  For 15 km, the Raja travelled with Bhai Gurdas ji and went back home after Bhai Gurdas ji’s insistence.  The Raja bowed and came back to his palace.  The Sangat all walked with the Raja.  The Mevra said: “you are Dhan!  You are the highest Sikh.  There is no other Gursikh like you.  You obeyed the command of the Guru.  You stayed in his will.  You didn’t care for you honour.  You are doing this to make the Guru happy.  You won’t be able to walk the whole way like this.  It is about 1,200 km.  You should open your arms and travel.  The day we get close to Amritsar, we can tie you back up again if you wish.”  He held Bhai Gurdas ji’s feet as he said this.  He was pleading with him.  Bhai Gurdas ji said to all the Sangat: “I am a thief.  It looks better if a thief’s arms are tied.  If you want to open my arms till Amritsar, you have been given the authority of Guru ji.  I will obey you.  You can do as you please.  You can open my arms for the way.”

Bhai Gurdas ji and the Sikhs travelled.  When they came close to Amritsar, Bhai Gurdas ji had his arms tied up again.  He walked in front of the Sangat.  Guru ji was sitting at Akaal Takhat.  There were Chaurs waived over his head.  The Sikhs and warriors were are all standing around Guru ji.  They were wearing expensive clothes and weapons.  Bhai Gurdas ji and the Sangat from Kanshi arrived.  Bhai Gurdas ji folded his hands and bowed in a stick formation on the ground.  He stood like a guilty person in front of Guru ji.  The Sangat watched this amazing spectacle.  Bhai Gurdas ji saw Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and quenched his thirst to see Guru ji.  Guru ji was happy on the inside to see Bhai Gurdas ji.  He had a mad look on his face though.  He spoke harsh words of scolding to Bhai Gurdas ji: “wow!  Nice horses you have bought.  You came so quick!  You took 50,000 Rajitpuns and threw it all on the floor and ran away.  Didn’t you consider that someone could have taken it?  You could have caused so much damage.  You then went so far away to Kanshi to live.  Are you the only faithful Sikh with contentment?  When the task of the Guru came upon you, look what you did?  Why don’t you answer me?  Why did you run away after throwing the money on the floor?”  Bhai Gurdas ji thought about this and uttered 2 Svaiyas:

Svaiya: If a drop of water and a grain of sand become filled with ego, they are nothing in front of the ocean and the sun.

If a bird and smoke fly to the sky and try to find its end, they cannot succeed.

An insect inside a fruit that flies, it calls the fruit the universe.  What does it know of the universe?

You are the creator, we are your beings.  What can we say in front of you?

There is no orphaned beggar like me, there is no master like you. 

There is no other poor unwise person like me, there is no one more compassionate than you. 

There is no sinner and person filled with vices like me, there is no one more generous of a saviour like you.

I am the ocean of vices, you are the ocean of virtues.  Prabhoo, I am sinking.  I seek your support.” 

Bhai Gurdas ji came close to Guru ji and grabbed his feet.  There were no vices or ego in Bhai Sahib ji’s mind.  Guru ji knew that he was pure now.  Guru ji smiled and said: “you are Dhan!  You earned the faith.  Get up and let go of my feet.  You are my beloved.  You are very dear to me.  You had said that “a Sikh shouldn’t lose hope.”  This whole drama was based on these words of yours.  I tied you up on a test to take your faults out.  There is no other Sikh like you.”  Guru ji was very happy.  He opened up Bhai Gurdas ji’s arms.  He freed him and had him sit next to him.  The whole Sangat watched.  Guru ji revealed the whole drama to all.  The Sangat was amazed to see this.  They said: “Dhan is the Guru and Dhan are his Sikhs.  Their ways are not known to humans.” 

The Raja of Kanshi had sent a lot of gifts for Guru ji.  Bhai Gurdas ji presented the gifts.  The Mevra did the Ardaas.  The 700 new Sikhs that came from Kanshi, they presented their gifts to Guru ji.  They were drenched in love, seeing Guru ji.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was happy to see this.  He said: “one went alone and brought back 700 more!  Dhan is this Sikh.  He is benevolent.  The Sikhs do good wherever they go.  He saved many.  The Sikh cannot see anyone’s pain.  They give Gurmat which gives them bliss.”  Bhai Gurdas ji uttered another line:

“If the mother gives poison, who else would save the child then?  If the guard steals, who else would know this?  If the ferryman sinks one, then who else could save you?  If the Raja kills, who else do you ask for justice from?  If the Guru plays a drama, what can a Sikh do then?”

In this way, Bhai Gurdas ji praised Guru ji.  He made himself look really small and Guru ji the greater than great.  Guru ji was happy and had Bhai ji get up.  He hugged him and gave him a Siropa.  He was respected in front of all.  Guru ji said: “you are Dhan!”  Bhai Gurdas ji was respected 10 times more than before.  He was respected a lot in the court of Guru ji.  Bhai Sahib ji’s praises spread everywhere.  People heard this in far away lands: “Bhai Gurdas ji is the elder Sikh.  All of the Sikhs have faith in him.”