8-51 Dheermal’s Ego

Dheermal came up to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and bowed to his feet with his hands folded.  Dheermal was very egotistical as he came.  He sat down in the court.  Satguru ji said to him: “are you well?  You really love staying in Kartarpur, I see.”  Dheermal folded his hands and said: “I protected your city.  I have saved it by becoming friends with the Badshah.  I calmed him down.  He is no longer angry.”  Guru ji heard Dheermal’s deeply corrupt words and said: “good!”  That’s all he said to him.  Dheermal was implying that he had called a truce of the conflict that Guru ji caused.  He was trying to be smart about it but Guru ji understood him through and through.  Dheermal set up his place in the home. 

It was Holi soon.  The people of the nearby villages began to come.  Many came to do the Darshan of Guru ji.  People brought gifts.  There were Melas in the villages nearby.  The Sangat played Phagun Holi by throwing colour, Gulaal and Ambeer on each other.  The Gulaal had rose essences and other fragrances in it.  Shabads of bliss were sang.  Satguru ji’s door were closed.  Guru ji gave his command: “it will be Pooranmaashi in 3 days.  I will meet the Sangat on that day.  Do Keertan and celebrate in the meantime.  The Mela will last till the 2^nd after the Pooranmaashi.  Everyone can go home then.”  The people were told to stay longer.  The sangat was happy to hear this.  The Mevras told the Sangat about the Pooranmaashi Divaan.  Guru ji’s command was announced out loud. 

Dheermal heard the announcement and got worried: “the Bhagwant Guru ji does not pay any attention towards me.  I hope he doesn’t give the Gurta Ghaddi to his sons or my younger brother.  I only came because my mother told me to.  I wasn’t respected in the Sangat.  People won’t do my Pooja.  If the Sikhs see this behaviour of Guru ji towards me, the Sikhs won’t respect me.  I will be respected if I become the Guru.  It only makes sense that I become the Guru.  I am the eldest son of the Guru’s eldest son.  Everyone knows this.  I need to think of a clever plan by which the Sangat sees my greatness.  Pitamah ji will come the day after tomorrow.  I will sit on a Manjhi tomorrow.  People will bow to me.  If I can get my Pooja done while the Guru is here, the Sikhs will bow to me then.  They will follow me after this.  They will obey me.  They will do my Pooja.  Guru ji will come out two days from now.  I will set up a Divaan tomorrow and give the Sangat my Darshan.  The Sangat will bring the gifts for me.  They will give it to me tomorrow what they brought for Guru ji.  I will dress like the Guru tomorrow, by wearing a Chola and Kalgi.  People will begin to follow me.  Once they bow to me, they won’t leave me.”  Dheermal discussed this with his Masands.  His supporters and Masands said to him: “you are very wise!”  These Masands stayed with him, all the time.  They were corrupted people.  They liked the division between Guru ji and Dheermal.  They said: “Lakhs of Sangat are here.  Masands from many lands are here.  Once everyone sees your glory, they will come to Kartarpur to bring their money from now on.”  The Masands and Dheermal went to sleep.

In the morning, Dheermal and his Masands woke up and began to set up a Divaan.  One servant was given a Chaur to waive over Dheermal’s head.  A whole façade was set up.  In the middle of the market, a lot of rugs were laid out.  Colourful sheets and rugs were laid out.  Dheermal bathed and wore an expensive Jama Chola made of fine fabrics.  He had Chobdhaars stand in the front with golden maces.  Dheermal wore expensive jewellery; bracelets and necklaces.  He wore a Kalgi and Jigha.  He was very handsome as his father and grandfather were very handsome.  He sat on a big throne on top of a big bench.  He set up a court like his grandfather.  A big round pillow was on the Throne.  He sat on the Takhat with joy.  There were servants standing all around him.  They began to praise Dheermal: “Sri Satguru ji, you are omniscient.”  They started calling him the Satguru.  They called him the Master and asked him to bless them.  Dheermal patted them all and blessed them.  An expensive canopy was hung with silk ropes. 

The Sikhs that came to the mela were walking around and saw this.  The ones that came for the first time, they were unaware of who Dheermal was.  They came and bowed to Dheermal, calling him the “Guru.”  The Sikhs went to their camps and brought the gifts they had brought for Guru ji.  They didn’t know the truth.  They brought their gifts.  Dheermal had his own Mevras who did the Ardaas for the Sangat.  One person saw another giving gifts and bowing; so others followed.  They bowed to him as he was the Guru’s grandson.  Many Sikhs came and presented their money.  Many people gathered.  Some came and some went.  Dheermal sat and had his Pooja done till about noon.  His Masands gathered all of the money that was given.  The Masands praised Dheermal to the naïve Sikhs: “Satguru ji will give him the Gurta Ghaddi.  He has called him from Kartarpur with great respect.  He is the eldest son of the eldest son of the Guru.  He is filled with all of the virtues.  He is deserving of the Pooja of the world.  He will be given the Gurta Ghaddi.  Do his Darshan.”  The Sikhs who didn’t know any better, they gave their money and bowed to Dheermal.  After noon, everyone got up and ate in their homes.  Dheermal rested in the home.  The court was dismantled by his servants. 

Guru ji was sitting in his home.  Some Sikh told Guru ji: “Satguru ji, Dheermal set up his own court today.  He pretending like he was the Guru.  He sat like you and had people do his Pooja.  He sat in the market since morning.  A lot of money was given to him by the Sikhs.  Hundreds of Sikhs came to him and brought him money.  They had their Ardaas done to him.  His Mela lasted till noon.  His Masands said to the Sikhs: “this will be the next Guru.”  The wise Sikhs and wise Masands didn’t go.  The old Sikhs laughed at his drama.  You have 3 sons and 2 grandsons, Guru ji.  The Sangat will follow whoever you give the Gurta Ghaddi to.  The wise ones will not bow to anyone if you don’t instal someone as the next Guru.  They won’t follow anyone else.  Those Sikhs are very wise.”  Satguru ji heard this and was upset.  He saw that Dheermal was very greedy for money and power.  Guru ji thought: “he has done unorthodox things in the past.  He kept the Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji by force.  I have called him for something else but he thinks it’s another thing.  He thinks he’s the Guru.”  Guru ji said to his sevadaars: “if Dheermal sets up a court again, grab him by the arm and disrespect him.  Kick him out of Kiratpur.  This is my command.”  Guru ji commanded his servants in this way.

When it was 4 pm, Dheermal came back to set up another Divaan.  He had his court set up like he did in the morning.  He got dressed in the same way and sat in the same place as he did in the morning.  He sat on top of a big throne.  He had a Chaur waived over his head.  He wanted to take the money that was meant for Guru ji.  He was filled with greed.  He was happy that he was worshipped in the morning.  He thought to himself: “I will surely be the Guru now.  If the Sangat believes me, then it will be permanent.  My Pooja will continue and the Sikhs will come.”  The Sangat came and bowed to Dheermal from all sides.  He set up a façade and did a lot of fake things. 

The warriors of the Guru came when they heard that Dheermal set up his court.  The Masands of Dheermal were beaten up by the warriors.  Many had their Pugris fall from their heads.  They were punched and kicked.  They all ran away.  The Sikhs took the Chaur and threw it away.  They grabbed the pillows and threw them.  They yelled at Dheermal and his followers: “Get lost!  Go away from here!”  They beat up many of Dheermal’s followers.  They yelled at Dheermal: “you are trying to be the Guru while Satguru ji is still here?!  You are looting the money of the Sikhs.  If you sit here again with this façade, we will tie you up and beat you up.  This is the command of the Guru.  It cannot be reversed.  We will tie you up and throw you in our jail.”  Dheermal was disrespected and told: “if you want the best for you, then leave from here.  Otherwise, you will be disrespected further.  This is Guru ji’s command.  Get up and get lost from Kiratpur!”

8-52 Playing Holi

After suffering the great insults, Dheermal was really upset.  The whole Sangat got to know his unorthodox acts.  The wise Sikhs in the Sangat heard about this and said: “he is corrupt like Prithi Chand was.  Guru ji forgave him, seeing him as his own.  Dheermal wasn’t afraid to do what he did.  He doesn’t fear the Guru.  He doesn’t see the greatness of Guru ji.  He wrote letters to the enemies of Guru ji and didn’t see the glory of Guru ji.  He didn’t come with Guru ji to Kiratpur.  Instead, he hid the Guru Granth Sahib ji in his home.  Satguru ji still didn’t get mad at him.  He forgave him, seeing him as one of his own.  Look, Guru ji still called him to Kiratpur but Dheermal still did such shameful acts of pretending to be the Guru.  He set up a Divaan like his grandfather.  Who knows what Guru ji wants?  Nobody knows what Guru ji wants to do.”  In this way, the Sikhs talked.  They heard and spoke about these events. 

Dheermal, observing his insult and disrespect, was drowning in a river of worries.  He didn’t go inside the home, in Kiratpur.  He called for his horse.  Dheermal and his men got on top of their horses and set off to Kartarpur.  After about 3 km, he said to his men with anger: “go and get everyone else.  Load up the luggage and let’s go.”  Everyone was upset.  They all crossed the Sutlej.  Dheermal thought to himself: “I came here because my mother told me to come but this was a bad idea.  I was insulted here.  Nobody knew about my bitterness with Guru ji before but now my reputation is ruined.  I shouldn’t have come.  Everybody knows that I was kicked out.  The Masands from far away lands, who brought a lot of Sangat, they all know what happened to me.  My tasks are ruined.  My honour is gone.  My Pooja won’t be done now.  People will say: “he was kicked out!”  Dheermal was regretting his coming to Kiratpur.  The extent of his pain couldn’t be described.  Dheermal eventually reached Kartarpur.  He sat there in worry.  He was like this, day and night.  Lakhs of Sikhs had come to Kiratpur.  Dheermal’s corruption was flashed to the whole world.  Everyone knew of his unorthodox acts. 

The Sikhs thought to themselves: “the 3 sons of the Guru (Baba Sooraj Mal ji, Baba Ani Rai ji and Baba Sri Tegh Bahadhur ji) are wise and great warriors.  The 3 sons do Seva with humility.  They are obedient towards the Guru.  They are all waiting to see Guru ji’s command.”  The Sikhs were waiting to see what happens next.  The Sikhs then thought: “it seems that the grandson will be blessed.  The older grandson was stubborn.  He tried to become the Guru.  He didn’t think that Guru ji was still here.  He sinned by sitting on a big throne.  He was like Prithi Chand.  Dheermal is separate now.  He is no longer with the Guru’s home.  It seems as though he will be the Guru’s enemy.  He’s only 15 or 16 and already he is doing such bad things.  He will be jealous with the Guru.  He meets with the Turks.  His wish to get the highest status is now destroyed.”  The Sikhs spoke to each other in this way.  The Sikh Masands didn’t like what Dheermal had done. 

Two days passed.  Pooranmaashi was here.  Everyone played Holi.  Everyone played with joy.  Keertanis sang Shabads in joy.  Basant Raag was sung.  Colour and Gulaal was thrown everywhere.  Phagun was celebrated.  The great warrior, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, came out of his home.  Rugs were laid out.  Canopies were set up.  The warriors came dressed up.  A beautiful throne was set up.  Colourful sheets were laid out on the throne.  A round pillow was placed in the centre.  Many other colourful sheets were set out.  The court was huge to accommodate thousands of people.  The tent was huge.  There were garlands of flowers hanging everywhere in the court. 

Guru ji wore a beautiful white Chola.  The master came out to play Holi.  Golden maces were held by the Chobdhaars who walked ahead.  The strong warriors with spears and swords were all around Guru ji.  Golden Chaurs were waived over Guru ji’s head.  Guru ji held Baba Bhanna ji’s hand as he walked.  Guru ji’s eyes were gleaming and he had a mild smile on his face.  He was happy.  His eyes were like the petals of a lotus.  Guru ji was really tall.  He was a good foot higher than everyone else.  Guru ji spoke to others as he walked.  His teeth were like pearls.  His big huge arms were like the trunks of an elephant.  Painday Khan and Kabul Beg were of the strongest and biggest men of the world.  Guru ji was bigger and stronger than both.  His arms had ripped the enemy apart.  He wore a pearl necklace in his neck with a precious diamond in the middle.  Guru ji did not wear weapons today.  The Sangat bowed to Guru ji from every direction.  Many Sikhs were standing with their hands folded.  They all bowed and presented their gifts.  Sangat from many lands came with expensive gifts.  Red and yellow colour was being thrown on all.  Gulaal, Ambeer and Alita was scattered everywhere.  The Sikhs brought the Gulaal.  They bowed in the court and presented their gifts.  There was Gulaal flying like clouds everywhere.  They looked like red clouds.  There was colour in the court.  In looked like the evening came to meet Guru ji.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji’s face was radiant like the moon.  Rose essences and Gulaal was flying everywhere.  The Master of the Universe, Guru ji, played Holi with the Sikhs.  He threw fistfuls of Ambeer and Gulaal.  Coloured water was squirted on all.  Everyone threw fistfuls of coloured powder on all. 

Many Masands with the Sangat played Phagun.  Everyone was happy to see this.  The colour got stuck on people’s faces.  Everyone was red with the colour.  The clothes were coloured.  Satguru ji enjoyed himself in this way.  The Sikhs, Masands and servants met in this way.  Everyone was happy.  Guru ji spoke to everyone as he met them.  The senior Sikhs and Masands, they folded their hands and told Guru ji how they were.  A big Divaan took place.  The Rababis sang Shabads.  The Sikhs had a happy get-together.  It was a meeting of the two dimensions.  People did the Darshan of Guru ji and were blessed with joy.  They were filled with immense love and joy.  For about 4 and a half hours, Guru ji sat in the Divaan.  Many servants were blessed.  Guru ji blessed the Sikhs with his vision.  Guru ji then got up.  He fulfilled everyone’s wishes.

Guru ji went to the home and bathed.  He wore another Chola.  The Leader of the Sodhis ate and then went to sleep.  Guru ji woke up at 2 am and bathed.  He sat in Samadhi.  It was the second day from the full moon.  Guru ji said: “make high stages in the market.  Lay out beautiful rugs for all to sit on.  Fasten a Chanani with four corners and tie a Chandoa (canopy) in the middle.  Everything should by new and beautiful.  Prepare all of this quickly.”  The Master of the Universe commanded the servants in this way: “go to all of the Dheras and tell everyone to come to the Divaan court.” 

8-53 Sri Har Rai ji is given the Gurta Ghaddi

The Naqeeb went around the Sikh Sangat to give them the command of the Guru.  Bhai Jodh Rai ji was given the news.  The Naqeeb said to all: “the Guru’s Darbar will be in session today.  Everyone is commanded to come to the Divaan.  The rich and poor, low and high; everyone is told to come and do the Darshan of Guru ji.”  In Kiratpur, there were tents for miles away.  The Masands had brought their Sangats.  Everyone was informed by the Mevras and the Naqeebs: “everyone come to the court!” 

In the middle of the market, a big throne was set.  Rugs were laid out.  A white Chanani was tied.  In the middle, over the throne, was a Chandoa with pearls and diamonds strands.  Zarri flowers were tied to it with silk ropes.  It was a very expensive Chandoa.  The throne was big with a big round pillow on top.  Expensive gems were everywhere.  It was more radiant than any king.  The craftsmen did not leave any detail.  Everyone got ready when they heard.

Guru ji got up and got ready.  He took his grandson, Sri Har Rai ji, along with his Sikhs, and headed towards the court.  Sri Har Rai ji was handsome and radiant.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji and Baba Tegh Bahadhur ji walked with Guru ji with respect.  Baba Ani Rai ji was with them as well.  All of the servants were there.  Baba Bhanna ji, the son of Baba Bhudda ji, the greatest Sikh, walked along Guru ji.  The Master held Baba Bhanna ji’s arm as he walked.  He spoke to him with love.  Guru ji arrived into the court and bowed to the Throne of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He then sat on the Throne.  Chaurs were waived by the servants on either side of Guru ji’s head.  They looked like two swans flying over the Mansarovar.  Servants held Soorajmukhis in the back.  Guru ji was radiant like the sun.  Bhai Jodh Shah ji arrived with his soldiers.  He bowed to the lotus feet of the Guru.  He sat down near Guru ji.  The warriors of the Guru’s army all came into the court with their weapons fastened to their bodies.  The Masands from different lands all came with their Sikh Sangats.  Everyone came soon enough and bowed to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  The Panchayat of Kiratpur arrived and were respected by Guru ji.  Baba Sundar ji and Baba Parmanand ji Bhalla arrived and attended the court.  They bowed and sat down.  The Chobdhaars carried golden maces and stood in front of Guru ji, on both sides.  Thousands came to the court.  It was a huge tent.  The whole Sangat attended.  The Rababis sang Shabads.  The Bhatts spoke their poems.  The 3 sons of Guru ji sat near Guru ji. 

Oh listeners of this great Katha, think of the Satnam within your hearts as the Gurta Ghaddi is about to be installed within the 7^th body.  The great Warrior-Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, asked for a coconut and 5 Paisas.  The items were brought by the servants and presented to Guru ji.  Sahib Baba Bhanna ji understood the whole traditions.  He sent his servants for the items needed for the ceremony of the Gurta Ghaddi.  Saffron and sandalwood were grinded.  A Kalgi and Jigha were brought to Baba Bhanna ji.  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji looked towards Baba Bhanna ji and said: “get up first Sahib Bhanna!”  The omnipotent Guru himself got up and looked towards the face of his grandson.  Guru ji did 3 Parkarmas of his grandson, Sri Har Rai ji.  Standing up, he placed 5 Paisas and the coconut in front of Sri Har Rai ji.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji folded his hands and bowed to the feet of his grandson, installing him as the 7^th Nanak.  He was now “Guru” Har Rai ji.  Baba Bhanna ji took the grinded saffron and sandalwood paste and placed a Tikka, the mark of the Guruship, onto the forehead of Guru Har Rai Sahib ji.  Guru Har Rai Sahib ji was now the Supreme Sodhi.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji said to the thousands of attending Sikhs: “see Guru Har Rai ji as the same form as me.”  All of the Masands heard this and were filled with an amazing and surprising pleasure.  They were surprised at who was sitting on the Throne as well as the fact that Guru Hargobind Sahib ji may be leaving his body soon.  They became sad that Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was leaving his body: “he is giving the Gurta Ghaddi because he will be leaving us soon.  This is Parmeshwar’s interesting way.  Look where the Gurta Ghaddi went.  This is surprising.  Sri Gurditta ji was deserving of the Gurta Ghaddi but he already left for the path to Sach Khand.   The elder grandson did a very bad thing.  The younger grandson becomes the Master of the Takhat.  The 3 sons of the Guru remain sitting as the highest status went to Sri Har Rai ji.”  The Masands spoke in this way.

The Sangat got up to present their gifts to the new Guru.  The saffron and sandalwood Tilak made Guru Har Rai ji deserving of the Pooja.  The Sangat all folded their hands and bowed.  First, Sahib Baba Bhanna ji presented his gifts.  He gave a Jigha with diamonds to Guru Har Rai ji.  The Kalgi had strands of pearls on it.  Baba Bhanna ji tied the Kalgi and Jigha to Guru Har Rai ji’s Dastaar.  From the House of Baba Bhudda ji, the Kalgi Jigha was presented.  A strong steed horse was presented from them as well to Guru ji.  The saddle was beautiful.  The horse was brought by Baba Bhanna ji’s sons from Jhanday-Ramdas Village.  The senior Masands all gave their gifts to Guru Har Rai ji.  Money, clothes and jewellery were presented.  They all bowed.  Everyone got sad at the fact that Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was about to leave them.  The Sangat saw the ascension ceremony of Sri Guru Har Rai ji.  This gave them great joy.  They started to think of the separation from Guru Hargobind Sahib ji as well.  They said: “Guru ji was the one that cut our pains but Sri Guru Har Rai ji is here.”  The gifts piled up.  Bhai Rai Jodh ji presented 5 horses to Guru Har Rai ji along with expensive weapons and clothes.  Bhai Bhagtoo ji, Bhai Behlo ji and Bhai Roopa ji; along with other Brahmgyaani Sikhs, were happy to see this ceremony.  They all bowed their heads to Guru Har Rai ji.  They presented their gifts and obeyed Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  They accepted Guru Har Rai ji as their Guru. 

All of a sudden, the Jot illuminated within Sri Guru Har Rai ji.  His radiance grew, right away, as soon as Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and the Sikhs bowed to him.  His radiance became so strong, that it was hard to look straight at him.  He achieved the supremacy of the Gurta Ghaddi.  He was omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient.  His power had no limits.  He could control the whole universe.  He could create or destroy the 3 worlds with one word.  He was in unending bliss.  He was the Satguru.  The greatness of the Ghaddi was illuminated in the next incarnation.  The Masands and the Sikhs were happy.  Guru ji was happy to see everyone.  He told everyone to bow to Guru Har Rai ji.  The Bhatts and Naqeebs sang about this day.  Guru ji gave them money and clothes.  The Rababis sang Shabads.  They were given gifts as well.  The Brahmins and others were given money.  Everyone was happy as they received gifts.  The 7^th Guru had taken the Throne.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji completed the traditions.  It was known to everyone that Guru Har Rai ji was the next Guru.  Guru ji then got up to go to his home.  He held Guru Har Rai ji’s hand and took him along. 

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji went into the home and sat on the bed.  He had Guru Har Rai ji sit with him.  The Sangat and the Masands went to their Dheras.  They were all happy but sad as well.  They said: “Satguru ji has decided to leave his body.  That is the reason why he has done this big task.”  Everyone got together and said: “the younger grandson got the Gurta Ghaddi.  The 3 sons remained empty.  The elder grandson got nothing.  Guru ji won’t stay long.”  The whole family figured this out as well.  The one who had a great radiance, the one who made the Meeree Peeree Takhat, he is going to leave. 

8-54 Sri Sooraj Mal ji and Mata Marwahi ji

The whole family heard the news and became worried.  They were all upset.  They thought this was going to be difficult.  Mata Mahadevi Marwahi ji was upset.  She thought she was at a loss.  She thought: “my son Sooraj Mal was deserving in every way.  He was the treasure of virtues.  He was illuminating.”  She came to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, while he was alone.  She bowed and sat down near Guru ji.  She said: “what fault did you find in my son?  You left him empty from the Gurta Ghaddi.  He was always in your command.  He obeyed your every command.  His mind was always drenched in Seva.  He didn’t say anything.  He never took anything.  You didn’t give him anything in the end.  What will we do after you?  How will we make a living?  There are many expenses for the home.  You have been taking care of everything up till now.  You are the Guru of the world.  You are the supreme.  Everyone brings gifts for you.  If your sons are left empty, people will see them and notice that they have nothing now.  My son won’t be able to earn.  What will he do without you?  Your sons haven’t learnt any other work to earn money.  They didn’t learn any trade or skill to earn.  They always thought: “Pithaji is omnipotent and gives a lot of donations.”  They are you sons.  They should own your assets but you left them empty.  They will be without support.  Tell me what will they do to earn a living?  You made the grandson, the owner of everything.  You gave him the Gurta Ghaddi and now he has become known as the greatest.  He will be worshipped.  His uncles will be considered “relatives” now.  How will he love his uncles?”  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard this and said: “why are you worrying so much?  Get rid of your jealousy.  Don’t bring your ego into your heart.  Don’t be in sorrow.  The Guru’s Sikhs earn faith and contentment.  They won’t care about this.  The faithful Sikhs will worship the whole family of the Guru.  They won’t see you as any different from the Guru.  The Sikhs will receive the joys of both worlds who do the Seva of the Guru’s families.  There will be no shortage in your home.  The sons of the Guru are great in every way.  The Sangat will worship their feet.  They won’t need to worry about anything.  They will live like kings.  They will have everything they need.  The greatness of the Gurta Ghaddi is too big.  This is in the hands of Prabhoo.  Only the deserving One will get it.  It can’t be attained by any forceful effort.  The sons and grandsons are beloved to me but they were not deserving of the Gurta Ghaddi.  You didn’t think about the previous Gurus.  They whole family was with them but only the servant was given the Gurta Ghaddi.  There were other relatives but they didn’t get the Ghaddi.”  Mata Marwahi ji heard this and got angrier.  She said: “you are trying to brush me off!  You are going to leave, as it’s your time.  Who will look after us after you?  I only trusted you, my husband but I am upset from you too.  I will leave from here while you are alive.  I will either get the big thing from you or leave from here.”  After having this discussion with Guru ji, she got up and left. 

Mata Marwahi ji packed up her stuff while shedding tears.  She called Baba Sooraj Mal ji to her home and said: “listen son, what task do you have here now?  Guru Maharaj has made us upset.  Till his body is still here, we can live in this place.  Sri Har Rai ji has become the owner now.  He will see us as his relatives and not provide for us.  The elder grandson has Kartarpur.  He took everything with force.  He kept Guru Granth Sahib ji as well.  He didn’t give them to his Pitamah.  He didn’t obey.  You stayed with the Guru everyday.  What did you get?  It’s not good to stay here anymore.  Come!  Let’s live somewhere else and make a living.  Don’t expect anything from your father.”  She spoke to her son in this way and convinced him to go with her.  There was nothing he could say as he had to obey his mother.  She packed her stuff and loaded the carts with her luggage, pots, pans, chests and clothes.  She said to everyone: “we are not staying here now!  My son and daughter-in-law are leaving with me.”  She called for her chariot.  Her son mounted his horse.  The maids and servants were seated on carts pulled by bulls.  The luggage was all loaded.  She headed off, leaving Kiratpur.

The servants saw this and ran to Guru ji to tell him that Mata Marwahi ji was leaving Kiratpur.  They came to Guru ji and said: “Mata ji is leaving with Baba Sooraj Mal ji!  They have left the boundaries of Kiratpur!  We don’t know where she is going though.”  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard this and said to Baba Bhanna ji, who was sitting near him: “Bhanna Sahib ji, go quick!  You are the eldest.  Convince her to come back.”  Baba Bhanna ji quickly got up and ran after Mata Marwahi ji.

Baba Bhanna ji stood in front of Mata Marwahi ji’s chariot.  He stopped her and said: “listen Mata ji, till Guru ji is still here, it is not right for you to leave.  You should stay with him.  With one word, Guru ji can do anything he wants to.  To serve such a husband is a good thing.  Sooraj Mal ji is his beloved son.  Guru ji is compassionate.  He will give him everything.  He will give him joy.  He loves his son and speaks to him with love.  He blesses him.  It is not right to be upset with Guru ji.  Guru ji knows past, present and future.  Live with the family.  Why are you upset?  Guru Har Rai ji loves you as well.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji’s family will grow.  Go to your husband for this boon.  The Master knows every heart.  Nothing is hidden from the omniscient Guru.”  Mata Marwahi ji heard this and said: “Sooraj Mal is the eldest.  He should have been the Guru.  What fault did Guru ji see in him that he wasn’t given the Gurta Ghaddi?  The elder brother’s son was given the Tika.  After my husband, the families will oppose each other.  How will they let us live near them?  My son got nothing right now.”  Baba Bhanna ji said: “will you get something by staying close or by going far?  Stay close to Guru ji and request him for what you wish for.  Your wishes will be fulfilled.”  Baba Bhanna ji convinced Mata ji to stay.

Mata Marwahi ji went back to her home as she couldn’t say “no” to Baba Bhanna ji.  She put back her luggage and household items.  Baba Bhanna ji took Baba Sooraj Mal ji to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji bowed to his father.  Baba Bhanna ji told Guru ji everything: “Maharaj, after yourself, they ask for a living.”  Guru ji saw his son standing in front of him and spoke to him with deep love: “tell me Sooraj Mal, what is your wish?  Do you wish to become the Guru?”  Baba Sooraj Mal ji folded his hands and spoke with love in his heart: “I don’t have such a wish in my heart.  I know how big the Ghaddi is.  I never saw myself deserving of it.  If you are happy with me and feel it is right for me to have it, then please give me your Sikhi.  The weight of the Guruship, I cannot endure.”  The compassionate One heard this and was extremely happy.  He said to him: “Shaabaash!  Shaabaash!  You took everything!  The Gurta Ghaddi and its greatness is included in Sikhi.  The wealth of the world and the Gurta Ghaddi is in the command of Sikhi.  Your family will grow.  You made me happy.  You will receive greatness equal to the Gurta Ghaddi.  Your family will be praised.  They will be radiant.  When my Panth will be established in the world, they will worship the Sodhis.  Your family and descendants will have no shortages.  You will be worshiped like Gurus.  Your family will grow in the world because you asked for Sikhi.  You got everything because of this.  Your family’s glory will illuminate.”  Baba Sooraj Mal ji kept his eyes lowered.  He bowed to Guru ji with his hands folded. 

Baba Sooraj Mal ji went back to his mother and told her what boons he received from Guru ji.  He convinced his mother to stay in Kiratpur.  He also told her what he asked for and what blessings he received.  Mata ji was still a little upset for her son not receiving the Gurta Ghaddi but she did know that Guru ji’s boons were always true.  This faith remained in her heart, despite her being upset.  She was satisfied with what was given to her son.

Baba Shyam Singh ji Sodhi and Baba Gulaab Singh ji Sodhi were the grandsons of Baba Sooraj Mal ji who stayed with Guru Gobind Singh ji in Anandpur.  They were sent to the Raja of Naan, Raja Medni Parkash by Guru Gobind Singh ji before the last Battle of Anandpur.  Guru ji told the Raja to give the two Sodhis the Jageer of a few villages.  The two brothers stayed there in peace.  They eventually came back to Anandpur after the battles were done.  Baba Gulaab Singh ji was a little egotistical.  He sat on Guru Gobind Singh ji’s seat.  Baba Gurbaksh Udaasi ji cursed him with his family dying out.  Baba Gulaab Singh ji’s family did not go further.  His two sons died without children.  Baba Shyam Singh ji’s family grew further.  They were known as the Sodhis of Anandpur Sahib.  The Sodhis were worshiped by the Nihang Singh Dals.  The Shiromani Panth Akaali Bhudda Dal would make the Sodhis sit on horses at the same level as the Jathedaars during the Mahallas.  This tradition changed once Anandpur Sahib came under the control of S.G.P.C (Shiromani Gurduara Prabandhak Committee). 

8-55 Mata Nanaki ji’s Request

Mata Marwahi ji was happy with what was given and so she gained her patience again.  She stayed in the home.  She was still worried about the future though.  She would sometimes think to herself: “the opposite has happened.  My son was left empty.  The Ghaddi has gone to the other home.  We will become weak over time.  My husband won’t stay here long.  The fight between the families will start.”  She thought about her son and became worried.  She would then think: “we were so great.  I wonder what will happen to us now without my Prabhoo Husband.”  She kept thinking and worrying in this way.

Now listen to Mata Nanaki ji’s state.  She was really worried.  She thought: “what has my husband done?  My son is poor.  Nobody knows him.  He is too naïve.  He is always calm and simple.  He only does Simran.  He does not know the clever ways of the world.  How will he deal with people?  He doesn’t meet the Masands either.  He has no connections.  The money comes through the Masands.  They will give the money to Guru Har Rai ji now.  The Sikhs only deal with the Masands.  My son doesn’t know these things.  The Sangat will bow to the new Guru.  My son will be alone.  Nobody will come to him with money.  He doesn’t know how to run the home.”  She thought about these things as a mother.  She was unaware of the awesome power that resided in Baba Tegh Bahadhur ji.  Sri Tegh Bahadhur ji was about 23 years old at this time.  He didn’t care for nice clothes or delicious foods.  He wore what he was given and ate what was plated for him.  He spent most of his time doing Simran in the jungles, gardens and mountainous areas. 

Guru Hargobind Sahib ji came to the home to eat.  Mata Nanaki ji sat beside him and fanned him with a fan.  She said her pain to Guru ji: “you are our only hope.  You gave us all of the joys.  You didn’t let us worry about anything.  You gave us everything we needed.  What will my son do after you?  He doesn’t know any other work.  He is always “Udaaseen,” detached from the world.  He stays alone and immerses into himself.  He doesn’t meet anyone.  You know of his nature.  What will he do for a living?  You are leaving us empty.  Who will support us?  You gave the greatness to the relatives.  We won’t get along with them.  The other grandson has taken the Guru Granth Sahib ji.  The grandson here, you have given the greatness of your own seat to him.”  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji spoke to her: “don’t worry about anything.  The sons of the Gurus will be worshipped in the world.  The Sikhs will bring them a lot of gifts.  Many people will be under their supports.  Food and living will be in abundance.  They will be the providers and donors to many.  Sikhs will serve them, seeing this as good for them.”  Guru ji spoke to Mata Nanaki ji in this way but she couldn’t gather her patience. 

Mata Nanaki ji kept thinking about this, day and night.  She kept doing Ardaas: “Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, please be our support.  I wish for my son to be great.  You are the pride of the prideless; the great strength of the strengthless.  Give my son wisdom and cleverness.  Be by his side.  Everyone makes efforts for their well-beings.  My son is empty from every side.  He lives in his own world, carefree.  He is not clever.” 

Many days passed in this way.  Sri Guru Har Rai ji was now the Guru.  Mata Nanaki ji always expressed her concerns with Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  She was very worried.  Her heart was in pain.  There was nothing she could do.  She felt helpless.  She thought she was not treated with justice: “the sons can’t have the same power as their father?  The grandsons are given greatness and the sons are left empty.”

One day, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, the one with the powerful arms, the great warrior, came to eat food.  He came with a joyful heart.  He was really tall and wide; like a big elephant.  He swayed like a carefree elephant as he walked.  He was full of glory and very handsome.  He sat on a great Asan.  A plate was set for Guru ji and placed in front of him.  Fine rice of many kinds were made.  The cooks made delicious food with spicy, salty, sour and sweet tastes.  Daals, vegetables, yoghurts and other foods were poured.  Guru ji’s hands were washed with warm water.  The Master then began to eat his food.  Mata Nanaki ji saw her chance.  She bowed and sat by Guru ji.  Guru ji ate slowly.  Mata Nanaki ji folded her hands and said: “listen to my plea Gareeb Nivaaj; tell me your wish.  My son is the youngest.  I am in doubt about him.  What will he do in the future?  He is not wise and does not know how to have relations with others.  He doesn’t know how to deal with the world.  Where will he go and live?  How will he make a living?  You gave your two grandsons your powers and two cities.  The grandsons have become owners of all your assets.  You didn’t look at your poor son.  You didn’t notice him.  He is not powerful.  He only does Simran.  Dheermal is an enemy of all of us.  He won’t let us come to Kartarpur.  Sri Har Rai ji has received the Gurta Ghaddi and the command of Kiratpur.  He is now in joy.  He has the army and the Sangat.  You gave boons to Sri Sooraj Mal ji.  You blessed him with a big family.  You also blessed his descendants with being worshipped like the Guru.  They will never be in poverty.  You didn’t give my son the Gurta Ghaddi or anything else.  He was always under your command.  The vices, such as ego and others, he does not have them.  He is never in desire.  He is always happy.  If you don’t give him the power of the Gurta Ghaddi, nobody will understand my son.  Which Sikh will come to his home?  Who will bring money to him?  I am in pain, seeing my son.  Our relatives will be worshipped in the world.  They will get all of the gifts and items.  We will sit and look at their faces.  Why are you not compassionate towards such a simple son?  Why don’t you make him the Guru like yourself?”  Guru ji heard Mata Nanaki ji’s words.  He thought to himself: “she does not have trust.”  Guru ji ate and then drank water.  As he washed his hands, he began to speak: “have patience.  Your son is deserving in every way.  Don’t see your son as unwise or simple.  He is eligible in every way.  He will be like the Guru without the Gurta Ghaddi.  People will worship him.  His state is really high.  The whole world will worship him.”  Mata Nanaki ji heard this and began to cry.  She cried and said: “we don’t have joy in our Karma.  My son Atal Rai ji couldn’t live.  He let his life go at your words.  Looks like something like that will happen again to us.  Tegh Bahadhur ji will be in pain, it seems.  I don’t know how long I will live.  Who knows how will my son live.  The injustice that is happening to us, I can’t tolerate this.  After you leave your body, my son and I will die but not live under the relatives.  It’s better to die before you.  I will die tonight.”  She spoke to Guru ji in this way, under the influence of Maya.  This was the Guru’s way.  Guru ji saw the tears and became compassionate.  He thought to himself: “this family is a big web.  She is not understanding anything.  She’s forgotten her Gyaan and is influenced by the web of Maya.  She is no longer seeing the world as a myth.”  Guru ji wiped his hands with a handkerchief.  He took the handkerchief and threw it into the lap of Mata Nanaki ji.  He spoke with a little anger; in a slightly raised voice: “here!  Take the Gurta Ghaddi you keep asking for, day and night, right now.  You injured me and took it by force.  Understand this, the Ghaddi will bring unlimited praise but unlimited pain as well.  Your son will get the Gurta Ghaddi but he will be faced with a lot of problems as well.  Many problems will arise.  Your son will tolerate a lot of problems on his body.  Your son will keep the support of the Gurta Ghaddi.  Your grandson will be the powerful Guru.  He will tolerate a lot of problems on his body as well.”  Mata Nanaki ji took the handkerchief from her lap and hugged it to her chest.  She folded her hands and bowed to Guru ji.  She got the blessing she was asking for.  Her son and grandson will be the Gurus. 

Mata Nanaki ji went to her home and told her son what Guru ji said.  Sri Tegh Bahadhur ji was unaffected by anything.  His mind was still.  He was in a single state mind.  Respect and disrespect were the same to him.