Gems of Gurbani

Guru Granth Sahib

Sukhmani Sahib  41

Ashtapadi 17 continues: If God infuses might in a tiny ant it can reduce an army of millions of men to ashes but when He wishes to preserve someone whom He likes, He does not take his breath away. Man makes many efforts of many kinds (to prolong life) but it goes all in vain because none can preserve or kill (but God). He is the protector of all beings (on this earth). Why do you have such anxiety O mortal being? Nanak says meditate only on the Name of this Wonderful Lord (pad 5).

Again and again recite on Lord’s Name that is like drinking nectar that make soul and body both sated. The jewel of Lord’s Name is awarded to the Gurmukh (God oriented) and he gets so engrossed that he cannot see anything other than the One Lord. The name is his wealth, his beauty and delight. The name is his comfort and companion. The persons satiated with the nectar of the Name are merged with body and soul into the Name alone. O Nanak such persons become His slaves and they are reciting His Name whilst seated, standing and sleeping (pad 6).

 Uttering His Name day and night is the blessing, a gift that Lord has bestowed on His devotee. He performs devotional service with heartfelt yearning to remain absorbed in His Name. He comes to know of his past (his birth or origin) and his present to recognize the Will of Lord. Who can narrate His praises? I know not how to describe Him not even one of His excellences. Nanak says all those who can remain in His presence at all hours of the day are perfect (pad 7).

O my soul you seek the protection, and give your body and soul to those who have recognized the Lord and have become donor of His gifts. In their sanctuary you shall find the solace and all the sins will vanish in their presence. You shall renounce all your cleverness and attach yourself to the service of those slaves who will emancipate you from the coming and going (cycle of rebirth). O Nanak, worship at the feet of such beings of the Lord (pad 8).