Gems of Gurbani

Guru Granth Sahib

Sukhmani Sahib  -7

Ashtapadi 2: The Name and glory of God continues for the salvation from a difficult situation, Guru Arjun ji says; where man cannot be saved from millions of helping arms he is saved immediately by reciting His Name. Where many misfortunes befall and ruin the man there the Name of God saves him instantly. Man dies and is born in many existences (Hindu belief that man is reborn in many jony’s – existences because he could not get salvation in his human birth) but he obtains rest if he meditates on God’s Name. The man defiles himself with the filth of self conceit (Haume) which cannot be washed away but uttering His Name all the sins are purged from mind. Such Name thou repeat O soul in the company of saints with loves O Nanak (pad- 3).

On the path whose miles cannot be counted God’s Name is that treasure that you can spend to finish your journey. On the path where the pitch darkness is existing God’s Name will come as a light to illuminate your path. On the path, you are all alone without company of any acquaintances you will be recognized with God’s Name. On the path, where there is terrible heat and sun is burning hot God’s Name will give you shade. Where O man thirst sucks out your breath God’s name will rain as Nectar – Amrit (pad 4).  

With the devotees God’s name is like a utensil of everyday use. It gives peace to the heart of saints. God’s Name is support of His slaves. With God’s Name millions have been emancipated. The saints utter His Name day and night. For saints God’s Name is like medicine. For God’s servant His Name is like treasure. The Supreme Lord has given the grace of His Name as a gift (To saints). The saint’s body is imbued with the Grace and Love of One Lord (His Name). Nanak, Divine knowledge is the livelihood of His slaves (pad 5).