1-16 The Ring and Pot given to the Sadhoo/ Going to Sultanpur

Guru Amardas ji is the joy-giving, infinite form which is beyond words.  He gives Gyaan to the Sikhs along with Mukti.  He saves them like a great king. 

Sri Bala Sandhur Vaach..

The daughter of Baba Kalu ji was Bebe Nanaki ji.  She was beautiful and a mine of virtues.  Baba Kalu ji found a good match for her in marriage.  Rai Bhullaar ji knew the boy and the engagement was set.  In Sultanpur, a person by the name of Jai Ram ji lived.  He was wise and of a good Khatri family.  The match was a good one.  The families met and set the marriage.  The Bharaat came to Talwandi for the marriage with all the instruments and celebrations.  The Bharaat came on horses and elephants.  They came wearing colourful clothes.  They all wore beautiful clothes and golden jewellery.  The jewellery had precious gems in them that shined.  They threw a lot of money over the groom.  The poor were happy to pick up the money.  The Nagaras were played.  Actors and performers set up their rings and put a show on for all to see.  Everyone was entertained.  The Bharaat reached the Janjh ghar, where they were going to stay.  When the sun went down, the fires were lit.  The Pheray were done around the fire and the Brahmins were given money.  The women sang songs of joy.  Dowry was given.  The families were praised.  Everyone was happy.  After the wedding, the bride and groom went to Sultanpur, along with the Bharaat.  After a day, Baba Kalu ji said to Guru Nanak Dev ji: “go to Sultanpur and bring your sister back.”  The Compassionate One did not obey and stayed quiet.  He looked downwards and sat down. 

Baba Kalu ji went to Rai Bhullaar and said: “he won’t go to get his sister.  I’ve told him many times.” Rai Bhullaar ji sent a servant to call the “Giver of Joy.”  When Guru Nanak Dev ji came, Rai Bhullaar ji had him sit with him with great respect.  He touched his forehead with love and said: “go once and bring your sister home.  Secondly, go there and stay there for a little while and be happy.  Kalu’s fight will calm down in this way too.  You should do as you wish but it is important to go to your sister.”  The Master of the Universe liked the way the Raja spoke and said “yes” to him.  Oh Guru Angad Dev ji, drink the nectar from this Katha.  The “Destroyer of Fanaticism” got ready to go.  He loved me a lot.  He saw me as his servant and showed me a lot of compassion.  The “Destroyer of Sins,” Guru ji, called me to him.  We collected the gifts for the sister.  Mata ji sent the “Reciter of Hari” and me, off.  Off we went to Sultanpur.

The “Giver of Bliss” walked slowly with me on the way.  His feet and eyes were beautiful.  It was the “Sissur” season (also know as Pat-churr in India) and so there were no leaves on the trees in the jungle.  The trees looked like they were naked and going to Hell.  The cuckoos were singing sweetly as they had eaten many mangoes.  Parrots, sparrows, cranes, herons, chatriks, Chakvas, chakvis, roosters, kaalkanchis and peacocks were like royalty at this time.  Pigeons, bees, mamolas, flamingos, Saaras, lamdheegays and other birds were singing.  We passed the jungle and entered Sultanpur with eagerness.  The people of the village were very happy to see us.  They were very jubilant.  The women of the village were singing songs of Basant; the spring season was arriving soon.  They were dancing in groups with their friends.  The Raja and the subjects were all happy.  They had no doubts or fears.  The women were dancing the Ghidda dance with their hands clapping.  They were saying the Sithineeya with their mouths.  They were throwing coloured water on each other. 

The lotus Guru went to his sister’s home.  He was seated in the home with great respect.  The family and Guru ji traded greetings and were very happy.  We stayed one night and then asked for leave.  Baba Jai Ram ji said: “stay in my home.  I will do the Seva of whatever you wish for.  Your saintly face has washed my sins away.  I am no longer in any pain or worry after seeing you.”  Guru ji said what his father had told him to say: “let me leave now.  I will come again.  Mata ji and Pitha ji has sent me to take my sister home.  I will come again some day.”  In this way, Guru ji was given leave to go back to Talwandi with Bebe Nanaki ji.  He was the radiant gem of the Bedis.

We all came back home to Talwandi soon.  Mata ji saw both brother and sister walking towards the home.  She was really happy to see them.  When Rai Bhullaar ji had heard that his beloved was back, he sent his servant to call him.  Guru ji came to see him.  Rai Bhullaar ji had him sit next to him.  He was filled with love and his eyes began to shed tears.  He asked him how he was.  The love increased in his heart.  Guru ji told him that he was well.  He praised Jai Ram ji.  The “Destroyer of Pain” then came home.  His charm put Kamadeva to shame.  His teeth were beautiful.  He was filled with bliss and walked carefree.  His beard began to come in on his handsome face.  The power of beauty was showing its skills.  It was like the darkness of space surrounding the moon.  It was like bees on a lotus flower.  His arms were very long.  His shoulders were high and wide.  His eyes were sharp and charming.  The golden hoop earrings hung over his cheeks, shining in the light.  His chin was chiseled.  Attachment was in his control.  His mind did not wander without his permission.  It was as though the lotus living in the water, never getting wet.  Joy and sorrow did not touch Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He was always in the single-state bliss.  By his body, he was always making the effort to bless the world.  Nobody can sing the glories of those who had been in the holy company of the Holy Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Guru Nanak Dev ji was always in the Udaaseen state, detached from the world.  He was the gem of the Bedis.  He spent his days blessing the world.

Baba Jai Ram ji came to the home of his in-laws later on.  He wore a beautiful outfit for Bebe Nanaki ji.  When Rai Bhullaar ji found out, he called Baba Jai Ram ji to him.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji went to go see Rai Bhullaar.  He was treated with respect.  They exchanged greetings and had some discussions.  Rai Bhullaar ji then spoke to Bhaya Jai Ram ji about Guru Nanak Dev ji: “Nanak ji is miraculous and wise.  Understand this.  Kalu fights with him.  Kalu does not have the wisdom to understand him.  Listen to what I say and keep him with you in your home.  Keep him with respect and honour.  Find a suitable match for him and get him married.  Dispel your doubts and do his Seva in every way.  If you make a mistake, do not make your wisdom go against him.  If you want to make your life joyful and full of prosperity, then listen to what I am saying.  I say this because you are the relative and because I am your well-wisher.  Do his Seva.  Kalu fights with him everyday.  For this reason, he stays depressed.  When you go back to your home, take him with you.”  When Bhaiya Jai Ram ji heard this, he was happy.  He said: “my good fate has come to fruition.  The one who you praise, if he comes to my home, my home will be filled with bliss.  I will take his commands on my wealth, body, head and mind.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji bowed and came back to the home.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji got ready to leave.  Bebe Nanaki ji was seated in the Dholi.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji bowed to his in-laws and Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji began travelling home with his wife and servants.  He spoke to his wife and the couple praised Guru Nanak Dev ji. 

Guru Angad Dev ji, let me tell you what the Katha of Guru Nanak Dev ji was after that.  The traditions of Yog were in the home.  Guru ji was detached from everything and his mind was always still.  This Katha is like how Raja Janak was detached from his body but lived the life of a householder king.  Just as ash hides in the fire, that is how the mine of virtues hid his powers.  The unwise didn’t understand this and would say: “without knowing the world, it is hard to work.  Nothing can be understood otherwise.”  The “Moon of the Bedis” was always in a single state of mind.  He was never angry nor happy.  How would the fools understand the “Lotus-bodied One?”  Only time would illuminate the “Keeper of the Dharma.”  The “Infinite One” will be known in the world in some time. 

One day, a Sadhoo came to Talwandi.  The saint laid out a seat for himself, outside of the village.  Guru Nanak Dev ji, casually came to where the saint was.  Guru ji said to the saint: “Kartaar,” and sat down.  Guru ji was wearing a golden ring on his small finger and had a small metal vase in his hand.  The Sadhoo looked at Guru ji and said: “what is your name?  What is your caste?  What tradition do you follow?  Tell me what is in your heart.”  Guru ji said: “my name is Nanak and Nirankari is the way of my body.  I am a Bedi Kshatriya.”  The saint heard this and said: “you are the Nirankari?  How would we know this?  Give me some proof of this.  Answer my question.”  Guru ji said: “you follow the Sant Mat (the way of the saints), but you don’t know the Nirankar.”  Guru ji took off his golden ring and put it in his metal vase.  He gave the ring and vase to the saint.  The Sadhoo said: “I have received this.  Now you can take it back.  What use do I have for it?  Take it back to your home.”  Guru ji said: “to take something back that has been given is not a good thing.  The Dharma becomes dishonored in this way.”  The saint was impressed and said: “you are the Kartar who stays hidden.”  The saint got up and left. 

Guru Nanak Dev ji was the “Giver of Joy” to his Sikhs.  He came back home.  Baba Kalu ji saw Guru ji’s hand and became angry.  He spoke very harshly: “tell me the truth!  Did you lose the vase and give away your ring?  You always give me pain.  You don’t have good wisdom.  What can I say?  You don’t take care of anything.  You have ruined the whole home.  Nothing I say has any effect on you.  Go wherever you feel like going.  Don’t come back to my home again!  Eat what you earn.  You have lost what I earned, let alone what you have made.  You don’t have the intellect to do a business.  You stay quiet and I get tired of yelling.  You don’t listen to me.  You are a collection of pain.”  Guru Nanak Dev ji went to Rai Bhullaar ji, right away and told him everything. 

Rai Bhullaar ji called Baba Kalu ji right away and said to him: “what is wrong with you, Kalu?  You don’t listen to anything I say.  I’ve told you many times before but you have no faith.  You are hard like a rock.  My words are like water.  How can they penetrate this rock?  Sri Nanak ji is soft, like a banana.  Wind can’t affect him.”  Baba Kalu ji said: “listen, there was a ring on his finger.  He has no clue about its whereabouts.  He doesn’t say where he lost it or who he gave it to.  Did he drop it or give it away?  He has no clue.  He talks to Fakirs every day.  He gives everything to the Fakirs and doesn’t say anything.  He stays quiet about it.  Even if he earned and lost the money, that would still be considered.  I wouldn’t care.  Others his age are earning and taking care of their houses.  Rai ji, think about my guilt, in which I could be dealt with, fairly.  How can I get along with him if he doesn’t earn?”  Rai Bhullaar ji thought and then said: “there are fights in your home every day.  I have thought about this and think that Sri Nanak ji should be sent to Jai Ram’s home.  If you agree, I can have him sent there today.  You speak harsh words in anger and fight with Sri Nanak ji every day.  You won’t see his perspective, just as east and west can’t see eye-to-eye.  You are greedy that’s why you always scold your saintly son who is full of compassion.”  Guru Nanak Dev ji was seated next to the Raja with respect.  The Raja said to Guru Nanak Dev ji: “I will write a letter.  You should go to Sultanpur Lodhi.  You will be happier there because Mehta Kalu is always fighting here.  His fights will stop this way.”  In this way, Rai Bhullaar ji wrote a letter addressed to Bhaiya Jai Ram ji.  In the letter, he wrote: “Sri Nanak ji is coming to you.  See yourself as fortunate.  Serve him as much as you can.”  The Raja wrote the letter with love and gave it to Guru Nanak Dev ji, the beautiful “Form of Compassion.”  He then called me (Bhai Bala ji) and told me to go with him.  Rai Bhullar ji hugged Guru Nanak Dev ji and kissed his forehead.  Guru ji began to shed tears, which fell to the ground.  The pain of separation could not be tolerated.  The pain flowed through the tears.  Rai Bhullaar ji put his hand on top of Guru ji’s head and gave him hope.  He gave him leave with a lot of love and affection. 

Guru ji went home and met his mother.  This was Vidhatta’s way, which Mata ji had a tough time understanding.  She said: “I only have one son and he is leaving me now.  I can’t take the pain of this separation.  I was not satiated seeing him yet.”  She hugged her son and took deep and cool breaths.  She was in a deep pain, as though her Pranas were leaving her body.  She continued: “oh son, tell me: how will I live without you?  I won’t be able to tolerate this pain.  I will drink poison and die.  Who will I see when I am alone?  If I had another son, I wouldn’t feel the voidance.”  Guru ji bowed to his mother as she was left crying.  Guru ji then folded his hands and bowed to his father.  He met his other friends and took me along on the travel to Sultanpur. 

On the way, Guru ji spoke about the story of Vairagya and pondered on it.  The giver of Mukti walked and observed the both sides as he moved.  We soon arrived in Sultanpur.  We saw the markets and were really happy.  The “King of the Bedis” then went to Bhaiya Jai Ram ji’s home.  Bebe Nanaki ji saw us and came running to greet us.  She came and bowed to the feet of her brother.  The compassionate Guru said to her: “you are my elder sister.  I should be bowing to you.  You have done the opposite.  This is not right for you to do.  Tell me, sister, how did I become your equal?”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “I speak the truth; if you were only my brother, your words, I would obey as you said them.  You aren’t anyone’s brother.  I have come to understand that.  You are the Ishwar of the universe.  I don’t see you as my brother.  You have no beginning; you have no end.  You are the infinite form.  You have no father; you have no mother; you have no friend nor relative.  You are the “Compassionate One” who has taken on a human form by your own wish.  You have come to liberate all of the life forms in this universe; spread righteousness in Kaliyuga.  The ones who follow the wrong path; the ones who are corrupt, destroy them.  Give me this boon; may I never forget the good wisdom.  May you never forget me and stay happy all the time.”  She sat down with her brother.

Bhaiya Jai Ram ji had arrived to where Guru ji and Bebe Nanaki ji were sitting.  Guru ji saw Bhaiya Jai Ram ji and got up to bow to him.  He stopped Guru ji from bowing and bowed to Guru ji himself.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “you have made my home pure.  I was waiting for you to come.  You have blessed me by giving me your Darshan.  You are the form of the complete saint and compassion.  Whatever you wish to wear; whatever you wish to eat; please tell us and do as you please.  This is your own home.  Sit where you please.  Go where you please.  You can do Satsang and Simran as you please.” In this way, everyone met each other with joy.  The 16^th Adhyay of Sri Nanak Prakash Granth has been completed.

1-17 The work at the Modi Khana Begins

Sri Guru Ram Das ji, Satguru, is the treasure of joy for his servants.  He destroys the fear of the noose of the Jumms in an instant.

Sri Bala Sandhur Vaach..

In this way, both sides met each other with joy.  Bebe Nanaki ji and her husband served Guru ji with respect.  The compassionate Satguru ji spent his days in Sultanpur with joy.  He had come as an Avatar to save the world.  The unwise people of Kaliyuga were burning.  One day, Guru ji was sitting with Bebe Nanaki ji and Bhaiya Jai Ram ji in the home.  The “Lotus-eyed Prabhoo” said: “the whole world knows and the wise people say that one should work and not stay free.  It is the tradition to work in this world.  Why should I do the opposite?  Tell me, as you see right, how should one spend their time?”  Bebe Nanaki ji heard this and said: “to listen to and ponder on Gyaan is your task.  You are the Master of the Universe.  You can do as you please.  There are many saints whom you can meet and have discussions of Gyaan with.  You can discuss many topics with them.  You are the provider for all of humanity, animals, plants and spirits.  Devatas and Daynts worship you.  Whatever food, money or items are in the home, please take them and do as you wish.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “whatever you wish, take it from the home.  The tasks of the world are useless.  They are not fit for you.  Why get entangled in them?  It is embarrassing to forget the Lord.  We are stuck in our own tasks.  You can sit here and do the Simran of Hari.  Connect with the love of Hari and give me joy as well.”  The “Kaval-Nain” (Lotus-eyed one) said from his mouth: “listen, the wise ones say that one should earn with one’s own hands and eat.  This will make the life a success.  Everyone should work and earn money.  They should first give food and clothes to Sadhoos and then eat.  The saints will bless them.  How will a person remain engulfed in the cycle of birth and death after doing such great deeds?”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji spoke his sweet words: “just command us.  I will do as you say.  I will never disobey you because Rai Bhullaar ji has praised you a lot.  If you want to do some administrative work, I can arrange for that.  You are excellent at keeping logs and accounts.  Think about what you wish to do and let me know.  Navaab Daulat Khan has a Modi Khana.  You can take care of that.  Whatever you feel you can do, take that.”  Guru Nanak Dev ji heard this and said: “Kartaar will do my tasks for me.  The protector of the poor and the mine of compassion is known to assist the saints.  To protect the honor of his name, he will help me.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “if you can do that, let’s go to Daulat Khan now.  Let’s not delay.  Today is a good day.” 

They both went to Navaab Daulat Khan’s home.  Guru ji met him.  They discussed the job.  The Navaab looked towards Guru ji’s form and said: “will he be able to do the work of taking care of the Modi Khana?  He looks carefree but wise.”  He gave Guru ji a piece of cloth as a gift and was very happy.  He gave Guru ji 1,000 Rajitpuns.  Guru ji and Bhaiya Jai Ram ji came back home. 

The items to be sold were bought and placed inside the shop.  Guru ji weighed everything himself for the customers.  He used a weighing scale and rocks to weigh.  He had received Bebe Nanaki ji’s permission and ate at home.  Whatever he earned from the Modi Khana, he reinvested by buying more stock.  He started with 1,000 Rajitpuns to start the Modi Khana.  He would give things to customers, whatever they asked for.  He would give them flour, lentils, barley, salt, ghee, turmeric, spices and other things.  The customers would be happy.  He had sugar crystals, Pataasay, sugar, chickpeas; all stacked up in the Modi Khana.  There was always a crowd there of customers from morning till evening.  It was hard to count the number of customers.  Seeing this prosperity, Bebe Nanaki ji and Bhaiya ji were very happy.  Bebe Nanaki ji said to her husband: “my brother will collect money for his wedding now.  We need to find a good match for Guru Nanak ji.  The family should be equal to us.  When Pitha ji finds out, he will be happy and wish to come here.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “he has begun working now.  We can find a good Kshatriya family and think about his marriage.” 

Oh giver of Mukti, Guru Angad Dev ji, one night I said this to Guru ji: “please give me leave now.  I will go home and farm my land to earn money.  It is best to do one’s own work.”  Guru ji’s cheeks shined from the reflection of his earrings.  The earrings were moving to the movement of his head.  It was as though two fish could be seen, reflecting on the moon.  Guru ji said: “Bhalla, make a living and remember Kartar in your heart.  Why are you depressed?  Tell me what you are thinking.  My wise friend, don’t think that the work at the Modi Khana is to collect money.  I will show you my real work.  Whatever I need to do, I am doing.  I will take you with me when I go.  Let’s earn together to make a living.  This is our work.”  In this way, Guru ji convinced me to stay.  I couldn’t be away from his Darshan either.  I folded my hands and said: “you are the Giver of Mukti.  Please grant me this boon that I may never do anything which is against your wishes.”  Guru ji said: “Bala, you are my friend.  Keep your mind instilled in the “Sat.”  Remember this and you will be free from births and deaths.”  After staying this, I bowed to the Lotus Feet One.  I did what he commanded. 

We bought stock from other places and shelved it in the shop.  There were many items in the shop.  The beggars came, hearing about Guru ji and received whatever they asked for.  The hungry got food and the poor got clothes.  Nobody left empty-handed, who came to Guru Nanak Dev ji.  What Guru ji received from Daulat Khan was small.  Guru ji had a huge stock now.  Hearing the praises of Guru ji, the poor came to him.  When they would come to see him, he would be more than they imagined.  In the Modi Khana, was flour, salt, ghee, other foods and clothes.  Whatever Guru ji would give from the stock, the stock wouldn’t decrease.  It would remain the same.  His glory spread throughout the city.  Every household spoke about him.  It was like the love of a Chakor for the moon. 

The accounts were balanced every month.  Guru ji sat with the accountant, holding the ledger and journals in his hands.  There was a profit every time.  The people were happy to hear this.  Some were jealous though.  The foolish ones didn’t know that this was the form of Kartar.  He was the giver of Mukti and joy; just as a cloud showers rain on all.  These miracles were not uncommon for him, without him trying.  Some said: “Daulat Khan has no idea that he is losing money.  There will eventually be a loss.  When he gets caught, he will suffer.”  Some spoke negatively while some said: “he is generous and donates a lot.  That’s why he’s making a profit.” 

Some beggars went to Talwandi and praised him: “he is the Modi of Raja Daulat Khan.  He is determined to donate.  He can’t see anyone hungry or without clothes.  His wealth is growing.  He works virtuously.  There is always a crowd of beggars at his door.”  The beggars of Talwandi went to Sultanpur in hopes of getting money.  Whoever asked for things, they received them from Guru Nanak Dev ji.  No one was left depressed or upset.  Rai Bhullaar ji heard Guru ji’s praises and was really happy.  It was like he found a treasure of joy.  He wanted to visit the Kaval Nain, the “Destroyer of Worries.” 

When Baba Kalu ji heard the praises of his son, he thought to himself: “he is giving away his wealth.  He was always generous and still does not have the wisdom to save money.  I will go and speak to him and bring back the money he has earned.”  Baba Kalu ji got ready to go and see his son.  He went to see Rai Bhullaar ji first.  He said to him: “I am going to Sultanpur to see how my son is doing.  Please give me permission to go.”  Rai Bhullaar ji said: “meet him with love.  Don’t speak harshly to him.  Touch his head for me and hug him.”  Rai Bhullaar ji bowed his head.  Baba Kalu ji came back to his home.  Mata ji cried and told Baba Kalu ji a lot of things to say to her son.  She had a lot of love in her heart for her son.  Baba Kalu ji took a lot of sweets and got on a cart, pulled by bulls.  He set off towards Sultanpur. 

Baba Kalu ji travelled slowly towards Sultanpur.  When he reached Sultanpur, he saw his son sitting at the shop.  He stopped his cart at the shop and got off with a lot of love in his heart.  Kamal Nain saw his farther and quickly came to bow to him.  Baba Kalu ji hugged his son, the House of Joy.  Guru Angad Dev ji, Pitha ji greeted Guru Nanak Dev ji and sat on a bed.  He touched his son’s charming forehead with love.  He gave a lot of love to his son.  They had met after a long time, so it seemed like a new love had sprung.  Pitha ji saw a lot of stock and understood that his son was doing well.  After sitting for an hour, Mehta Kalu ji said: “you have been doing the work of a Modi in Sultanpur for a long time now.  How much have you earned till now?”  Kaval Nain spoke: “I have earned a lot after coming here but money does not stay in my hands.  It comes from one side and goes through the other.  I have not saved even a Kodi.  Revenue and cost are equal.”  The love for his son flowed away quickly, like a bridge made of grass destroyed by the current of a river.  It was like the desires came and destroyed the state of the mind, leaving nothing behind.  He was angry when he heard his son’s words.  He spoke to his son about saving money: “since you were born, you have not given us any joy.  You’ve only taken money from the home and lost it, giving us pain.  There are sons who earn money and get praised in the home, but you have no clue of wisdom to do such a thing.  You are unwise and have done the opposite of what I have instructed you.  You have been working in the Modi Khana for a while now and not been able to save a Kodi.”  Pitha ji then looked at me and spoke with anger: “you stay close to him and let him spend the money.”  Kamal Nain looked at me from the side of his eyes and signaled me to stay quiet.  Baba Kalu ji spoke with anger but Kamal Nain ji stayed quiet.  Pitha ji said: “whatever you have lost that I gave you, earn it quickly and send it home!  I had come to take something but you have lost everything.  He is mature in age now but still unwise.  He hasn’t changed.  Profit and loss are the same for him.  He has no worries to earn money.  All he thinks about is losing money and eating it.  If someone else can explain this to him, please do so.  He is not worried about earning money.  A wise person can earn a lot of money in this line of work.  When he gets married, how will he make a living?  He would want to spend from my earnings then.  Oh son, you are older now.  Stop spending money on useless things and become wise.  Stop doing what you have been doing and become smart.  Earn money and save.  If you don’t feel like giving me the money, then don’t.  Keep your savings separately with you.  There are many expenses of the home.  If there is no money, life becomes difficult.”  Pitha ji told Guru ji many ways to earn and save money.  He was angry but loving at the same time.  He explained a lot of things to him.  He gave his son love and hope.  He then went to the home of his daughter and Bhai Jai Ram ji. 

1-18 After Balancing the Accounts, a Profit of 135 was Seen

Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji, whose praises are spread throughout the world; he listens to the Ardaas of his servants.  I bow to the Bani of Guru Arjan Dev ji that pierces the heart like the arrows of Arjan (the Pandav). 

Baba Kalu ji met Bebe Nanaki ji with a lot of love.  The clothes and food he brought with him on the cart, he put them in the home of Bebe Nanaki ji.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji had arrived later.  He bowed to his father-in-law with love and respect.  Everyone sat down joyfully.  They asked each other how they were.  Baba Kalu ji spoke with haste: “since my son has been here, you didn’t advise him.  He has been doing bad things and destroying the home.  You didn’t watch what he was doing.  What have you been doing?  You didn’t take notice of what he was doing.  He lost his money.  You didn’t think about his marriage, so he would start to save the money and come on the right path.  Look after him.  Protect him.  He brings in a lot of money.  Where does it all go?”  Sister Bebe Nanaki ji said: “listen Pitha ji, he is working at a good place.  Consider this as a good thing.  He will eventually get married.  It looks like you are upset.  He didn’t lose anything of yours.  If he gains or loses something, it’s his thing now.”  She pointed to her husband and said to her father: “he has found a good match.”  Baba Kalu ji was happy to hear this and said: “find a wealthy home of a Kshatriya.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji heard this and said: “from the Chona clan, there a Kshatriya named Mool Chand.  He has a daughter.  Mool Chand is the Patwari of the Randhawas.  I have seen their home.  The relation will be good.  I have seen everything with patience.”  Baba Kalu ji then said: “there’s no difference between you and I.  You can go and confirm the relation.  You are wise.  Just as I see my daughter happy, I wish to see my son happy as well.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “you are like my father.  Stay in my home.  I will go and bring Mata ji (his mother-in-law).”  Pitha Kalu ji heard this and said: “I have been living in my village for a long time.  I have no problems there.  I live there in peace and joy.  Rai Bhullaar ji has given my all of the duties of the Patwari there.  I can’t leave my friends and relatives there.  If the engagement is set, call for me.  Don’t delay anything.  Take care of Nanak.  Make sure he doesn’t lose any more money.  Guide him.  I am always worried about him.”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “listen Pitha ji, you’ve always said that your son is ruining your wealth.  But now, he is earning his own money.  Even if he losses it (or saves it), why do you need to worry about it?  He’s not taking anything from you.  He donates food to the hungry and gives clothes to the poor.  He is the form of compassion.  He is compassionate.  He isn’t stealing or indulging in bad relations.  The one who does bad deeds, Dharma advises one to stop such a person; but stopping a person from doing the right thing is against the Dharma.  Listen Pitha ji, understand this, he gives donations to Fakirs.  He gives them food.  He has no greed in his heart.  His nature is to donate and look after the poor.  He likes to do good.  We are afraid of Daulat Khan, in case there is a loss in the work.  There is always a crowd of beggars there.  Everyone says that he is losing his money.  When he balanced his books, a profit was seen.  There was no loss.  His reputation was maintained.  Kartar has come as an Avatar.  He is not a human being.”  Baba Kalu ji heard this and said: “that’s a good thing but do the balancing of the accounts now.  I want to see if there still is a profit.  Listen to me and do something to save the money.  Khakh (Dry grass) and Lakh (100,000) are the same for him.  Do something to take the money from him.  Call Bala.  All of us will convince him to speak to Nanak ji.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji called a servant and told him to get me.

When I came to them, Baba Kalu ji said to me: “you are a good and smart friend of Nanak ji.  I see you the same as Nanak.  You are to take care of him and make sure he doesn’t spend any money for no reason.  If you are with him, he won’t spend money for no reason.”  When I heard this, I got a little angry.  I said: “we don’t have a grain of greed in us.  Why are you trying to put me in doubt?  We don’t wish for material items or clothes.  Sri Nanak ji is the form of Parmeshwar.  He is a benevolent saint.  Staying with him, one is blessed.  Having faith in him gives rise to peace and joy in the heart.  Prabhoo has given us this human body, which is rare.  We are to cross this world ocean.  This is our main task.  Listen Mehta ji, if you want money, then stay by your son.  My personal wish is to never disobey him.  I have no greed for money like you do.  Stay with your son.  Bring your home here.  Whatever he spends, that’s how his stock grows by.  Take whatever you can.  I can’t take his money.  He is my master.  I am his servant.  How can the money be collected?  I can’t go against him.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji spoke: “listen, this is a useless task.  Bala speaks the truth.  Accept what he says as the truth.  Understand this.  Don’t be upset.  Don’t blame Bala.  When Nanak ji gets married, he will save the money as he will need it.  When the engagement is set, I will call for you.  Don’t worry about anything.  After marriage, he will love his wife and not lose the money.” 

I then went to the place where Guru Nanak Dev ji’s shop was.  Mehta Kalu ji stayed at his daughter’s home for some time.  When Mehta Kalu ji got ready to leave, he said to his son: “you will be engaged soon.  It won’t be too long.  Save money for your engagement.  Stop doing what you did in the past.”  Baba Kalu ji met his daughter and son-in-law with love and respect.  Pitha Kalu ji met Guru Nanak Dev ji and me.  He went back home after that.  Guru Nanak Dev ji continued with his work.

Guru Nanak Dev ji did as he was doing before.  He gave food and clothes to the needy.  Nobody left empty-handed.  His glory spread throughout the city.  Men and women said his praises as though he would be a great king.  He was like flocks of swans forgetting their ways; like blossoming Maalti flowers. Guru ji was seen like the Ganga that saved many; like the Kalapbrish that fulfilled everyone’s wishes.  Fakirs would come to him everyday with joy. 

Many days passed.  A corrupt slanderer came to the home of Bhaiya Jai Ram ji.  He took Bhaiya Jai Ram ji to the side, alone, and said: “speak to your wife’s brother.  Tell him not to waste money for no reason.  Understand what I am saying, your brother-in-law has no fear.  He gives a lot of money to the Fakirs.  He uses the Navaab’s money to give away.  You know how the Turks are.  If they find out that someone is giving them a loss, they will get angry.  They will give you pain.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji got scared hearing this.  The slanderer went home.  Bhaiya ji was worried.  He said to his wife: “Arya Putri (daughter of the Aryan- a term of endearment) I have heard from many people that your brother spends money like a great king.  People come to scare me.  They tell me to tell Nanak ji to not give away money like that.  Their words felt like arrows going through my heart.  They are scaring me.  What should I do where my honour remains intact?  My mind is drowning into the ocean of worry.  Tell me which ship will save me now?”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “the worry that you have in your heart, do what it takes to get rid of your doubts.  Do what you think is right to make your doubt go away.  You don’t have faith in my brother yet.  Why are you asking me if you don’t have faith?  You know my brother’s greatness.  You would tell me about it.  I trust my brother.  I do not doubt him.  He is the form of Parmeshwar.  He is a benevolent, generous Saint.  The Maya in the world, it is in the control of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  If you still want to see the truth, go and balance the books.  Why keep the doubt?  I am sure he will be in a profit, if not, he will break even.  People always say bad things.  Don’t listen to them.”  Bhaiya ji said: “if you trust your brother, then why should I be in doubt.  If you have faith, I don’t need to check the books.  I don’t want to sin.”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “I think you should go and check the books, anyways.  Don’t delay.  Call my brother.”  Tulsa Dassi (a maid named Tulsa) was sent to get Guru Nanak Dev ji, the mine of joy.

Tulsa Dassi met Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Guru ji said: “yes Tulsa, why are you here?”  Tulsa said: “your sister loves you a lot.  She has requested you to give her your Darshan with compassion.  That is why I have come.  Come to your sister’s home.”    Sri Guru ji said: “Tulsa, you go on ahead.  I will come in a while.”  Guru ji then called me and said: “Bala, why did they call me?  It seems as though they are in doubt.  Somebody tattletaled on me.  I have sensed this in my mind.”  Guru Angad Dev ji, I will tell you the great Katha.  Please listen to it.  I said to Guru Nanak Dev ji: “who can tattletale on you?  You have no vices.  You can never do bad.”  Guru ji heard this and said: “take some sweets and bring it.  Take 2.5 Sers of Pataasay.”  Guru ji then got up and went home.

Guru ji came home.  I also came with him.  A nice bed was laid for us.  They met us with respect.  The Flag of the Bedis spoke: “why did you call me?  You called for me.  I came, hearing your command.”  The daughter of Pith Kalu ji said: “my brother, I wished to have your Darshan.  That’s why I sent Tulsa.  My heart is blossomed now.”  Guru ji said: “listen sister, tell me your doubts.  Tell me why you really called me.”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “you already know everything.  You are omniscient.  You know everything without saying.”  Guru ji said: “listen sister, I have come to know in my heart that somebody has slandered me.  I knew this was going to happen.  I think we should balance the books.  We haven’t balanced the books in 3 and a half months.  That is a necessary task that needs to be done.  The doubt will go away as well.  We will see what the profit is.  I already wanted to balance the books.”  Bebe Nanaki ji heard this and gave hope: “no brother.  We don’t doubt you.  The transactions are never in loss.”  Guru ji said: “my sister, you speak the truth but the books need to be balanced.  There is no dishonor in this.  Let’s not delay this.  Let’s balance the transactions.  The doubts will be gone.  The slanderers will have their faces blackened.”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “whatever you have thought, do as you wish.  Do what gives you joy.” 

Taking Bhaiya Jai Ram ji, Guru ji went to the home of Navaab Daulat Khan.  Daulat Khan was sitting with the accountants.  Guru ji sat with the accountants like normal humans do to balance the books.  Guru ji spoke of all the revenue and costs.  The accountant wrote them all down.  The transactions of 3 and a half months were all recorded.  A profit of 135 Rajitpuns was calculated.  The donor to the poor had a profit.  When Kaval Nain ji did this balancing, the profit of 135 Rajitpuns was seen.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji felt embarrassed and happy at the same time.  He was regretting his doubt: “why did I listen to those slanderers?”  Guru ji and Bhaiya ji came home.

The “Support of the Servants” sat in the home.  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “how did the balancing go?”  The “Joyous One” said: “Jeeja ji knows what happened.  Take care of the Modikhana from now on.  I can’t continue the work now.  Kartaar is my Kartaar.  Take the Modikhana under your control.”  Guru ji, the Benevolent One, got ready to leave.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji got up quickly to stop him.  He held Guru ji’s feet.  Bebe Nanaki ji began to cry and said: “brother, how is this for you?  You will have to kill me before you go.  If you want to see me alive, then stay.  You are sweet and simple.  We are filled with vices.  Why are you getting upset?  We are forgetful.  We make mistakes.  Please don’t think of our faults.  Why don’t you forgive us, brother?”  Kamal Nain said: “listen Jeeja Jai Ram ji, the work that gives a loss, why bother doing such a work?”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said in a requesting way: “I didn’t know your power.  I was unwise.  I have seen a little bit of your power.  Now I know your greatness.  You are omniscient.  You are the complete Parmeshwar, the destroyer of sins.  You are the Avatar with the complete powers.  Forgive my mistake.  I listened to a slanderer and came into doubt.  Destroy my pain.”  Bebe Nanaki ji shed tears: “why do you speak about us taking the Modikhana?  If we make a loss, we can complete it.  Please stay here.  Forgive us.  We won’t say anything.  We are in joy with you here.  Let go of your anger.  Be compassionate.  Why are you wishing to leave?  Don’t leave us.” 

I was standing near Guru ji.  I said to Bebe Nanaki ji: “there is no one greater than Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Vishnu took on forms of the Raghuveer and Sri Krishan ji, Guru ji was in all of them.  He is the master of all, including Inder.  His feet are the clouds of bliss.  He is the giver of Mukti and joy.  He destroys the sins.  He blesses the servants.  He is the master of the universe.  He is the one with the strong arms.  He gives Gyaan.”  Listen Guru Angad Dev ji, I then folded my hands and spoke to Bebe ji to calm Guru ji’s anger down: “he is never angry at anyone.”  I then said to Guru ji: “look how your sister and Jeeja ji is humbly requesting you to stay.  They have love in their hearts and are holding your feet.  Forgive them and stay with your Jeeja ji.  They are requesting you continuously.  Have compassion.  They are your true lovers.  The anger in the hearts of the great beings is like fire.  The lower ones can make requests with humility which extinguishes the fire like water.”  Kamal Nain ji heard my words and became compassionate.  He spoke sweet words: “Bala, your words, I cannot refuse.  This is my way.  Understand this.”  The Master then stayed in the home.  He was compassionate.  He was the “Benevolent One.”  Seeing him would destroy the sins and pains.  He gives to his servants.  Bebe Nanaki ji and Baiya Jai Ram ji said to me with love in their hearts: “you gave us a new brother!  You are wise!  You are great!  You do Guru ji’s Seva, day and night.  That’s why Guru ji blesses you.  You have faith.  Guru ji gave you devotion.  Your doubts are all gone.”

Everyone was happy that Guru ji decided to stay.  Guru Nanak Dev ji went back to his shop.  He walked slowly with a beautiful walk.  Kavi Santokhi Singh ji says: “I am a sacrifice unto Guru ji.”  The profit from the balancing, Daulat Khan gave it to Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He was happy with Guru ji’s work.  Navaab Daulat Khan gave an additional 1,700 Rajitpuns to expand the Modikhana. 

Hindus and Muslims came to Guru ji and congratulated him.  They said: “we thought you were going to leave.  We got sad when we heard this.  You are generous.  We then heard that you were going to continue.  We were happy hearing this.  You are deep and generous.  We hope you grow and become more prosperous.”  Guru ji respected everyone and gave them leave.  Guru ji continued the work of the Modikhana.  Guru ji worked fearlessly as he did before. 

1-19 Satguru ji’s Engagement

I worship the lotus feet of Sri Guru Hargobind ji.  I write the Katha which gives joy.  Listen oh Sikhs, to this Katha with focus.

Sri Bala Sandhur Vaach..

Some time passed, in a good way, as Guru Nanak Dev ji worked at the Modi Khan.  He took the weighing scale and weighed the items of sale.  He gave more than the customers would ask for.  The customers would always be happy to receive more than they paid for.  Hearing the glories of Guru ji, many beggars came.  They would get what they asked for.  The officials were shocked and amazed to see how this was working.  They thought that Guru ji had some sort of Rasayan, which made gold from metal; or that he had some wealth that was buried.  Nobody knew the ways of the indestructible Kartar, who had come as an Avatar.  He was the destroyer of facades, the form of bliss; who came to make others do Simran of the Naam.  The 9 Niddhis and 18 Siddhis stood in front of Guru ji with their hands folded, waiting for a command.  What shortage can there ever be where Parmeshwar was?  He was the Parmeshwar, detached from the Maya. 

From the Village of Pakho-ke-Randhawa, was a Kshatriya named Baba Moola ji.  This place was within the Vatala area.  The Laagis of Baba Moola ji came to Sultanpur with the engagement proposal.  The Laagis made their way to Bhaiya Jai Ram ji’s home.  The Laagis were respected and seated in the home with respect.  Bebe Nanaki ji was happy to have the Laagis come to her home.  Her other clan sisters-in-law congratulated her.  The family traditions were carried out and the songs of joy were sung by the women.  They were happy.  Bebe Nanaki ji gave donations to the poor.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji was very happy.  The relatives were called to the home.  The relatives all came.  Guru Nanak Dev ji sat in the centre.  They put a saffron Tilak on Guru ji’s forehead.  The Laagis gave Guru ji their blessings.  They fed him sweets.  The women sang and made jokes.  They laughed and sang Sithinees.  Everyone was happy.  Sultanpur became a very joyous place with celebrations.

A servant was sent to Talwandi to invite the family.  Mata Tripta ji heard of the great news and became joyous.  It was as though she had received the 9 Niddhis.  She took sweets and left the home.  She gave sweets to the servant who came with the message and said: “I am a sacrifice unto you.”  She gave him 5 Rajitpuns, clothes and gifts.  The women of the Bedi family came and sang songs of joy.  It was a joyous time.  Baba Kalu ji heard the news and was very happy.  It was like a peacock being happy, hearing the rumbling clouds.  Baba Kalu ji gave donations to the poor.  The poor asked for gifts and gave their blessings.  The women were really happy.  Their clothes and jewellery were beautiful.  The women said: “Guru Nanak Dev ji is the Avatar of Parmeshwar.”  The relatives knew this too.  They said: “this relationship is of the Dharma within the Bedis.  Kalu ji’s son is the complete Truth.  He made the family pure.” 

The maternal grandparents of Guru Nanak Dev ji received a message with the good news.  They were invited.  The grandparents came quickly and brought gifts.  Guru ji’s Nana ji was Baba Rama ji.  His Mama ji was Baba Krishna ji.  His Nani was Mata Bhirai ji.  They all came eagerly.  They met everyone and were really happy.  They did the family traditions with joy.  Baba Kalu ji saw this and said: “let’s get ready quickly and go to Sultanpur.  Let’s buy the items of need.  Don’t delay.  Let’s leave now.”  Everyone packed and got ready to leave.  The stuff was loaded on carts, pulled by bulls. 

Baba Kalu ji and Baba Lalu ji got ready.  They all said Guru Nanak Dev ji’s praises.  Chacha Lalu ji wanted to see his nephew, like a bee wanting to see the flower.  They all headed to Sultanpur.  12 people went to Sultanpur in total.  Mamma ji and Nana ji were very happy.  The servants were happy too.  Baba Kalu ji stopped at Rai Bhullar ji’s place on the way.

Baba Kalu ji said to Rai Bhullaar ji: “my son, who is your servant, his engagement has been proposed in Sultanpur.  I am called there.  I am going to spend money there.  I need your permission to go.”  Rai Bhullaar ji responded: “don’t speak those words ever again.  Understand this: Nanak is my Master.  He is not my servant.  I am a speck of dust in front of him.  If Nanak is compassionate with me, my wish is to be his servant forever.  Don’t say this again.  You spoke this out of ignorance.  You don’t know the greatness of you son.  The 3 Loks obey his command.  Go to Sultanpur and spend the money for the wedding.  When you see Sri Nanak ji, don’t speak harshly to him.”  Mehta Kalu ji heard this and said: “don’t keep any doubt in your heart.  I will speak nicely to him.  Please give me permission for peace.”  Rai Bhullaar ji said: “Kalu, you have a harsh tongue.  To stop you, that’s why I said that.  When your son lived here, you fought with him all the time.  I don’t want you to fight with him on such a joyous occasion.”  Pitha ji said: “your wisdom is great and gracious.  You are Parmeshwar for me.  I only have one son, who is beloved to me.  Why would I speak harshly to him?”  Rai Bhullar ji said: “go now and complete your task.  Khuddah will help you in this great task.  Send my love to the Compassionate One.  I touch his feet and bow to them.  Make my requests to the Kamal Nain.”  Pitha ji bowed to Rai Bhullaar ji and headed off to Sultanpur.

Pitha Kalyan Chand ji and the whole family got on top of the carts and headed off without any delay.  The love of the son tied them all in a tight rope.  It’s like the fish pulling the wire.  The family took all the money with them.  They traveled mainly during the day.  The Doom/ Miraashi of the family, Bhai Mardana ji went with them as well.  His fortune was about to come to fruition.  They all came to Sultanpur.  Men and women congratulated them.  When they reached Sultanpur, they got off their carts and went to the home of Bhaiya Jai Ram ji.  Bebe Nanaki ji came to meet the whole family with love and joy.  Mata Tripta ji hugged her daughter and put her hand on her head.  Bebe Nanaki ji, the Patibrat woman, the beautiful and virtuous one, met the family with joy.  Everyone hugged Bebe Nanaki ji and gave her their love.

Bhaiya Jai Ram ji arrived and bowed to the elders.  Guru Nanak Dev ji heard about Pitha ji coming.  He got up and came home, as soon as he could.  He saw his father and bowed his head to his father’s feet.  Pitha Kalu ji gave his son many blessings and kissed his forehead.  He looked at his son’s face and was drenched in joy.  His hair stood on its ends with love.  He gave him a lot of love.  He was really happy.  The Giver of Mukti said: “tell me Pitha ji, are you well?  Are you happy?  How is the Rai in Talwandi?”  Pitha Kalu ji said: “listen son, I had forgotten but you reminded me.  Everyone is happy with Prabhoo’s blessings.  The Rai is drenched in Prabhoo’s love.  When I met him, he said to me: “bow to his feet for me.  I am greedy for his Darshan.”  Hearing the message of his beloved, Guru ji was happy.  He then got up and bowed to his mother.  He bowed his head to his mother’s feet.  Mata ji hugged Guru ji and put her hand on his head.  Her heart was calm and serene after seeing him.  Her eyes shed tears as she had met her son after a long time.  She was filled with bliss.  She looked at her son’s face and stopped crying as it was a happy time.  She recognized Prabhoo’s ways and thought: “looks like my fate is that I can’t stay with my son.  I didn’t get that joy.  I am still fortunate to see my son’s wedding.”  She kept hugging him.  She was not satiated seeing his handsome face.  Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji got up and bowed to his Chacha, Baba Lalu Chand ji.  Chacha Lalu Chand ji hugged his nephew.  He was happy to see the handsome face of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He hugged him and received joy.  He hugged him like a greedy person hugging money.  He thought to himself: “the giver of joy was born in our family.  He made the family pure.  Parmeshwar only knows the best.”  Chacha ji spoke to him for a bit.  Guru Nanak Dev ji then got up and bowed to his Nana Baba Rama ji.  Nana ji grabbed him by the arms and hugged him.  He didn’t let him bow.  Nana ji shed tears.  He wouldn’t let his grandson go.  Nani, Mata Bhirai ji said: “let him go now!  You already gave him your love.  He has to meet others as well.  Everyone missed him.  Let him meet the others.”  Baba Rama ji said: “I won’t let him go!  I am not done yet.  I will let him go when I am done.  I have to circumvent money from his head.”  Mata Bhirai ji said: “then circumvent the money and give it to the poor.”  Baba Rama ji said: “no beggar has come yet.  Who do I give the money to?”  Bebe Nanaki ji called for Tulsa Dasi and told her to go and get the beggars.  Tulsa Dasi called the beggars and brought them.  Baba Rama ji got change for 30 Rajitpuns.  Nani ji had 10 Rajitpuns and Mamma ji had 5 Rajitpuns.  They all circumvented the money over the head of the Giver of Joy.  They gave the money to the beggars then.  Many had come to get money.  There was a great crowd.  Baba Kishan ji, Mamma ji said: “is there anyone left?”  Nana ji and Nani ji celebrated with joy.  The traditions were done that were required.  Everyone gathered and celebrated.  The praises spread in Sultanpur like the moonlight of the full moon. 

They all stayed there for one day and then headed to the home of Baba Mool Chand ji.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji and his father, Baba Parmanand ji, made all of the preparations.  Baba Rama ji, Mamma ji, Pitha ji and Chacha ji were really happy in their hearts.  They left for Vatala with joy.  They walked slowly.  They were fortunate.  They came close to the home of Baba Mool Chand ji.  The sent a Brahman, named Nidha, to the home and said: “tell Baba Mool Chand ji that the Bedis have arrived.  Take the money of Shagan with you and tell the family to start preparing for their items of need.”  The Brahmin went to Baba Mool Chand ji’s home and blessed the whole family: “may the Prabhoo keep you alive forever.”  Baba Mool Chand ji bowed and gave him a place to sit.  He said to the Brahmin: “what is your reason for coming?  Tell me where you are from and why you came?”  The Brahmin said: “I am from Sultanpur.  Parmanand ji sent me to you.  The Bedis have come.  They bring money for an engagement proposal.  My coming is of a joyous occasion.”  Baba Mool Chand ji said: “it is good that they have come.  I welcome them with joy.”  Baba Mool Chand ji called his servants and had them collect food and items of need.  Nidha Brahmin was told to get the Bedis and bring them to the home.

The Bedis all came to the home of Baba Mool Chand ji.  They all met each other with family traditions.  Everyone was happy.  They all spent the money as per traditions.  Baba Parmanand ji did the traditions.  The Laagis from both sides did their traditions and the congratulations were exchanged.  Pitha Kalu ji said to Parmanand ji, after taking him to the side: “listen, the engagement has been done.  Ask the family for a quick wedding.”  Baba Parmanand ji asked for a quick wedding.  He said to Baba Mool Chand ji: “write the Saha Letter quick, as the bride and groom are of a good age.”  Baba Mool Chand ji said: “I can’t agree with that.  After 1 year, I will write the Saha letter.”  Baba Parmanand ji went quiet after hearing that.  He agreed with him though.  They all stayed in Vatala for one day.  They all took leave with great joy.  They got on their carts and came to Sultanpur.

Bebe Nanaki ji was glad and celebrated.  She called all of the women of the neighborhood and sang songs of joy.  Their voices were sweet like the cuckoos.  Their eyes were beautiful like doe.  They sang the Sithineeya.  Many beggars came to collect donations.  Bebe Nanaki Ji gave them donations.  The beggars gave them blessings of joy.  After staying for a few days, Baba Kalu ji wanted to go back home: “I need to do the work of being a Patwari.  All of the work is done.” 

When Baba Mardana ji heard about leaving, he went to go see Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He came to Guru ji and said: “listen Sir, I have heard that you are generous.  Your engagement has been done with joy.  Give me my grace of joy as well.  You are the home of peace.  I am the Miraashi of your family.  I rely on your support.  Many people take gifts from you.  They receive what they ask for by your grace.  I hadn’t come to you yet.  Whatever your father gives, I take it with joy.”  The Giver of Mukti said sweet words: “whatever is in your heart, say it.  I will give you without delay what you want.  I have some special work with you.  Tell me what is it that you want?”  Baba Mardana ji thought about his advantage and said: “give me the best thing, what you think, that will make me happy and give me satiation.  Give me what will satiate me.  I will give you blessings.  I look for your support.  I have seen Rajas with a lot of money but you are the best donor.”  Guru ji said: “give me your ear and listen: when a person gets a good thing but doesn’t know its value, he gets upset.  The giver gets upset too.  The people of your caste wish for clothes and jewelry along with money.  They don’t know what pain awaits them later.  The Miraashi caste only asks for money.  They think that will do everything.  They like good clothes and good food.  They see that as joy.”  Bhai Mardana ji was fortunate.  He then said: “then give me what you consider as good.  Give me that which will bless me and give me joy.  Give me something I won’t be disappointed with.”  Kamal Nain said: “I will give you the gift of being able to play a stringed instrument.  Playing the instrument will make your sorrows go away.  Whoever listens to you will no longer be in pain either.  Your bonds will be broken and you will be in joy in both worlds.  Singing the praises of Hari, the ones who are drenched in its joy, they are happy to sing them.  Their vices and sins are washed away.  I will give you this skill.  This is my wish.  If you have this skill, you will receive Mukti.  Stay with me.  You will get Mukti.”  Baba Mardana ji was happy to hear this.  He got up and sang the praises of Guru Nanak Dev ji: “you are like your father and your grandfather.  Your ancestors are like you.  You are the Guru of the world.”  He said the names of his ancestors and sang their praises.  He said: “you are the son of the Bedis.  Pitha Kalu ji’s house had a Diva born in his home.  Seeing your grace, Inder is embarrassed.  He can’t donate as much as you.”  Guru ji, with his beautiful eyes, took his Chola off and gave it to Baba Mardana ji along with some money.  Baba Mardana ji was happy to have received the chola and money.  He wore the chola and felt happy.  He said: “you made me happy.  Give me permission to go back to Talwandi.  I came with your father.  I am going back with him, oh Dispeller of Pain.”  The Giver of Joy spoke: “you are the Miraashi of the Bedis.  Don’t ask from anyone else.  Take from us and live in contentment.”  Baba Mardana ji said: “if you take care of me, why would I go anywhere else?  Clothes and food are needed though.  The greed of these things makes us fold our hands and ask for them.”  Guru ji said: “listen Mardana, Kartar takes care of everyone.  The body was made after, the food was made before it was born.”

Baba Kalu ji met his son-in-law and daughter.  He then came to meet his son.  He sat on a bed in the shop and looked at his son’s handsome face.  He gave love to his son and gave him some instructions to collect money: “get ready to spend money on your wedding.  We will need a lot of money for your wedding.”  He said many instructions to Guru ji.  Guru Nanak Dev ji said: “Rai Bhullaar ji, the gracious, please give him my regards.”  Hearing the sweet words of his sweet son, Baba Kalu ji headed to Talwandi. 

The family slowly came back to Talwandi.  Rai Bhullar ji was first met by Pitha ji, who gave him news of wellness.  Rai Bhullaar ji was sweet.  He was happy to hear that everything was good.  He closed his eyes and thought of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He bowed to Guru ji, thinking that he was right next to him.  Just as the engagement happened, I have told you in the Katha with Chaupais.  The Chapter is completed with joy.  Bhai Santokh Singh ji does the Simran of the feet of the Guru.

1-20 Balancing the Accounts/ 321 Profit

Sri Satguru Har Rai ji is by my side.  I do his Simran and receive peace.  The filth of poverty and sins are destroyed by him.  Victory be to Sri Guru Har Rai ji!

Sri Bala Sandhur Vaach..

Oh Treasure of Compassion, Guru Angad Dev ji, the great Katha of Guru Nanak Dev ji, please listen to it.  After the engagement, Guru ji continued his work at the Modikhana in a better way.  He gave more donations now.  He gave food to the hungry and clothes to the ones who didn’t have any clothes.  Any seeker of alms did not leave empty-handed.  People from other lands came, inquiring of Guru ji’s location, as they came.  Guru ji started his work at Amritvela, every day.  He sat till around 10 pm at night.  The army of Daulat Khan would also come and get raw food from Guru ji.  People from other lands came to get things from the shop.  There was always a crowd of beggars.  They gave blessings to Guru ji when they received alms.  When Guru ji was seen as very generous, the people of Sultanpur said: “he gives donations, day and night.  He is a great donor like a great king.  He takes the money of the Turks without even a little bit of fear.  He knows that, either today or tomorrow, he will run away.  He will be called a thief.  When he runs away, the police will take Jai Ram.  His honor will be gone.”  The unwise people, but who were still friends of Bhaiya Jai Ram ji, came to his home and said to him when he was alone: “how are you still sitting without any worry?  Your brother-in-law is losing the money.  Consider it as you losing money.  He will run away one day and leave you with the trouble.  He thinks it’s easy to spend the money.  You will be in trouble.  The Navaab is strict.  He is the king.  He will want his accounts to be balanced.  He won’t be easy to deal with.  You will have to fill the loss.  The wise people think long term.  They don’t waste money like this.  You are our friend since childhood.  We saw the Modikhana and we didn’t like what we saw.  We couldn’t tolerate it and came to you.  There was no other reason for us coming.  We came to make you understand the situation.  He’s your relative so do as you wish.”  When Bhaiya Jai Ram ji heard this, it was like the unstopping rain of the monsoons; he got worried.  He was a simple and soft person.  His patience was lost.  It was like a river, overflowing inside of him.  He started thinking many things and drowned in his worry.  The slanderers went home.  The fools didn’t know anything.

Bhaiya Jai Ram ji lowered his head in worry.  He kept thinking, all day and all night.  He did an Ardaas to Parmeshwar with humility.  He had regret in his heart but didn’t say anything to anyone.  Bebe Nanaki ji saw her husband’s condition.  She saw him worried and without joy.  She figured something was wrong: “he looks worried.”  She asked Tulsa Dasi what happened.  Tulsa said: “listen, my Lady, one day, the elders of the village came here.  I saw them coming here.  Since they came, the Master has been worried.  Who knows what they said.”  Bebe Nanaki ji, the wise, heard this and figured out that someone must have slandered her brother again.  She went to her husband and said: “why are you in doubt?  You give joy.  I know your worries.  You’ve already seen the proof.  You doubted him before and the accounts were balanced.  Let go of your doubt.  Those people are unwise and don’t understand the greatness of Guru Nanak Dev ji.”  She spoke to her husband in this way but Bhaiya Jai Ram ji was still worried.  The slanderers’ words were worrisome to his heart.  Without seeing the truth, he was not going to be calm.

Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, the Omniscient One, sensed the corruption of the fools.  He saw the worried Bhaiya Jai Ram ji, who was affected by the words of fools.  To get rid of his worry, the gem of the Bedis came home and sat on a bed.  It was evening.  He was the destroyer of pain.  He spoke sweet words to rid the illness-like worry: “Jeeja ji, let’s balance the books.  Let’s see the transactions for the Navaab.  It’s been many days and we should have the balancing done.  Let’s see what happens.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji was happy to hear this.  It was like the wealth of faith coming back to him.  He thought to himself: “I’ve been worried day and night.  He spoke what I wanted to do.”

Bhaiya Jai Ram ji went to Navaab Daulat Khan’s home, wearing expensive clothes.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji said: “listen Lodhi King, your Modi wishes to balance the books as it has been a long time.  We need to see the revenue and costs.”  Many fools had said the same things to Daulat Khan as well.  They said: “your Modi has been wasting money and will run away one day.”  Daulat Khan said to Bhaiya Jai Ram ji: “I had been in doubt.  By balancing the books, everything will be revealed.  Bring your brother-in-law here.” 

Nidha Brahmin was sent to Guru Nanak Dev ji at the home.  He said: “you have been called to do the account balancing.  The Navaab has called you to the court.”  Guru Angad Dev ji, Satguru Nanak Dev ji quickly got ready and gave me the journal logs.  The master went to the Navaab.  He walked slowly in a carefree way.  He was very radiant.  We reached the court.  There were many Qazis and Divaans in the court, wearing expensive clothes. Daulat Khan was the highest in the court.  The warriors were serving him.  The Giver of Joy came there and gave the Navaab his Salaam.  Daulat Khan looked towards Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He was without faith.  He said: “handsome Modi, what is your name?”  The Kamal Nain said: “My name is Nanak Nirankari.”  Daulat Khan was surprised and said: “I don’t understand.  Tell me the meanings of your name.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji, the wise, said in Farsi: “the One without doubt, the One without form, the One without a cause, that is the Khuddah which cannot be compared.”  Guru ji said: “the One whom the Vedas refer to as “Nayt,” (not this) and the Kataybs call unlimited; no one can quantify the Parmeshwar; I am the one who sings the praises of Parmeshwar.  I am Nanak, the singer of his praises, who is the giver of all joys.”  The Navaab smiled.  His mind was chained by vices and desires.  He was skeptical and said: “this Modi of yours, is he married?”  Bhaiya ji said: “he is not married yet but he is engaged.  The Saha Letter will come soon.  It is with your radiance that his wedding will be soon.”  Daulat Khan then said: “he calls himself the One who praises the Parmeshwar.  This will only be true till his wife doesn’t come to his home.  Jattis, Satis, Tapasvis and Rishis, the ones that can’t be counted, seeing the woman is a trap.  The ones that get stuck, they can’t get away.”  Guru Nanak Dev ji spoke to destroy the doubt of Daulat Khan: “the ones who are truly drenched in the Love of Parmeshwar, the ones who are not empty of love; their minds are not dirty with the desires for women.  They don’t like this state.  They know that the desire for women makes the mind dirty.  They are wise and know that the body is nothing but bad smelling, bones, blood, fat and flesh.  Only the unwise fall into love with the desires for women.  The Gyaanis that think deeply know that the love for the Parmeshwar is much more blissful than the desires for women.  They don’t like any material objects.  They don’t love anything else.  They prefer to do Simran of the giver of Mukti, the Parmeshwar.”  Daulat Khan saw the determination in Guru ji and said: “you lose money every day.  Many people have come to me to tell me this.  Balance the books and make it even.”  Guru ji said: “listen king, let’s do the balancing.  Tell me what is the profit or loss.  You can come to a decision about the slanderers.  Determine truth and lie.” 

Navaab Daulat Khan called an accountant.  He said to him: “balance the books with the Modi.  Count the revenue and the costs.  It’s for many days.  See what the end result is.  I want to see if it’s a profit or a loss. You always say to me that the Modi is losing money.  Do the work properly now.  Do what you think is right.”  The accountant was named Jado Rai.  He thought: “this is what I wanted.  The Modi has given away money.  I won’t let him leave today.  I will get him to cover the loss.  He won’t be able to sit in the Modikhana again.  He didn’t see me as anything.  He’s never given me a bribe either.” 

The accountant and Guru ji sat down together to balance the books.  It was for many months.  Guru ji gave all of the revenue amounts plus what was received from the Navaab as the investment.  Guru ji then gave all of the costs.  It was a lot.  It was hard to understand this thing.  The accountant tried to confuse Guru ji and spoke harshly to scare him.  It was all useless though.  Like a proud firefly, he just lit his power in front of the sun.  The big fool didn’t know that Guru ji was the form of Kartaar.  It was Parmeshwar himself. 

For 5 days they balanced the books.  The foolish accountant did the work and was finally done.  When the books were balanced, a profit of 321 Rajitpuns was calculated.  The Foolish accountant was embarrassed.  He wanted to put Guru ji in trouble, but that was not to be.  He thought: “it would have been better if it was even.  I have to give him his profit now.  He’s taken money many times from the Navaab.  Whenever we see him, he is always giving money away.  How is it that he is in a profit?  I can’t understand this.  I am shocked.”  He didn’t go to Daulat Khan as he was embarrassed.  He went home without saying anything.

The “Breaker of Bonds” came back to his shop.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji’s river of worry, that flowed all day and all night, heard the news of the profit and became happy.  He gained his patience back when he heard this.  He quickly got ready and went to Navaab Daulat Khan.  He said to him with love: “for 5 days the books were being balanced.  I have heard that the work is done.”  Daulat Khan was shocked.  He said: “who does the profit belong to?”  Bhaiya ji said: “I don’t know.  Ask your accountant.  The accountant was jealous and his chest burned all the time.  He had hatred for the Modi.  Call him.”  Daulat Khan called for the accountant.

The accountant came.  Navaab Daulat Khan said: “what happened with the accounting?  Who does the gain belong to?”  The embarrassed accountant spoke with pain: “it is known that the Modi loses money.  He gives a lot to the beggars and poor people.  I’ve seen it with my own eyes.  When I did the calculation, he gained a profit.  I don’t understand him.  I added everything up and balanced it all.  I did it over and over again.  I thought about it and made sure not to make mistakes.  He was in a profit of 321.  You are in a profit.”  The Navaab said: “many came to me and said that “the Modi will run away soon.  Take care of the money or else he will cause damage.”  They were all liars!  They couldn’t see the Modi’s greatness.  They were jealous.  The Modi likes to give donations.  This is why he has a profit.”  The Lodhi Navaab then went quiet.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji then spoke: “the Modi does not give pain to anyone.  The scheme-driven people try to gather money.  The Modi doesn’t do that.  He gives donations and doesn’t keep anything for himself.”  The slanderers were embarrassed, hearing this in the court.  The greatness of Guru Nanak Dev ji over-powered everyone in the court; just as the sun coming up in the east in the morning, the light of the Divas goes less.  Guru ji is the sun, these owls were like the Diva.  Daulat Khan understood this and wanted to give the money to Guru ji.  He called the treasurer.  He had him sit near him and said: “listen Bhawani Das, the treasurer, give the Modi the profit.  On top of that, give him 3,000 more Rajitpuns so he can grow.  My soldiers will get food like this.”  Bhawani Das called Guru ji and gave him 3,321 Rajitpuns.  He counted it all and gave it.  The slanderers were jealous.  Their chests burned.

When the money was counted, I picked them all up and came to the shop with Guru ji.  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji came to the shop as well.  He was really happy.  Guru ji separated 3,000 Rajitpuns.  He gave Bhaiya ji the 321 Rajitpuns.  The 3,000 he re-invested to buy more stock.  Guru ji continued to work as he did before.  He continued to give donations to others.  He gave food to the hungry.  The soldiers of the Navaab also came to get food. 

Bhaiya Jai Ram ji came back home with the 321 Rajitpun.  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “what happened with the balancing?  What was the outcome?  Guru ji didn’t leave the work, did he?  It’s been 5 days since this has been going on.”  Bhaiya Jai Ram ji, the simple one, said: “seeing this every day, I was shocked.  Many Fakirs were always crowding around the Modikhana.  The “Mine of Treasures” kept giving to all.  I don’t know why but he always has a profit.  I don’t know what his greatness is.  The accountant lost, who was wise.  He was embarrassed and shocked.  3,321 Rajitpuns were given to make the Modikhana bigger.”  Bebe Nanaki ji said: “my brother was seen by Rai Bhullaar.  He saw his power first by which his faith is deep.  He is the “Giver of Joy.”  Rai Bhullaar is his follower.”  Bhaiya ji said: “listen oh wise wife, he will save the whole world.  Everyone will be his follower.  You speak of the one Rai Bhullaar, all of the Devatas and Daynts make requests to him.  They will all be saved if they ask him.”  Bebe Nanaki ji was very happy after hearing her husband’s words.  If a vine receives support, it grows a hundred times.  The couple’s faith towards Guru Nanak Dev ji got deeper.  They discarded their doubts and did the Seva of Guru ji’s feet.