16th Paurree: 'Machh Kachh Baaraah Thum..."

Dhan Dhan Kalgidhar Maharaj, Chittey Baja Wale Paatshah, Neela-Ghorh Asvaar, Sarbans Daani, Dasmesh Pita Ji Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj
-
ਮੱਛ ਕੱਛ ਬਾਰਾਹ  ਤੁਮ ਤੁਮ ਬਾਵਨ ਅਵਤਾਰ॥
Machh Kachh Baaraah Thum Thum Baavan Avthaar
ਨਾਰਸਿੰਘ ਬਊਧਾ ਤੁਹੀਂ ਤੁਹੀਂ ਜਗਤ ਕੋ ਸਾਰ॥੧੬॥
naarSi[n]gh B-oodhhaa Thuhee[n] Thuhee[n] Jagath Ko Saar
-
Noticing the on-going structure of Shastar Naam Maalaa (1st Adhiyaye), Guru Maharaj begin the first half with the Name of Shastars. Following this, Maharaj go over a broader understanding of our existence: there is a Protector-God and the protected-soul. Who is the one being protected and from who? This metaphysical question is answered in the last Doharaa. In this section Guru Maharaj refer to the personification of Satogun (Power of Protection/Maintenance/Nurturing/Sustenance) through the various Avatars of Vishnu. Vaheguru have protected the world and their Bhagats by taking on a physical form (avatar) in many instances. It is all Vaheguru’s Shakti/Power. Please read all of this section’s commentary in order to remove any doubts about this.
Note: This Dohara’s commentary features sections of Gurbani from Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Chaubees Avatar. They translations do not cover all of the Gurbani on each Avatar. There are many parts including battle imagery and important details to each story which are not translated. The point of including these excerpts was to highlight enough information about the stories of each avatar for a Sikh to understand the context of this Doharaa.
These references to the Avatars encourage the Sikhs to read the lengthy stories Guru Sahib narrate in Chaubis Avatar.
ਅਬ ਚਉਬੀਸ ਉਚਰੌ ਅਵਤਾਰਾ ॥
Ab Choubees Ouchrau Avthaar
Now I will speak about the 24 Avatars of Satogun/Vishnu
ਜਿਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਤਿਨ ਕਾ ਲਖਾ ਅਖਾਰਾ ॥
Jih Bidhh[i] Thin Kaa Lakhaa Akhaaraa
In that way which has been understood
ਸੁਨੀਅਹੁ ਸੰਤ ਸਬੈ ਚਿਤ ਲਾਈ ॥
Suneeah[u] Sa[n]th Sabai Chith Laaee
All of the Saints shall listen with attentive focus
ਬਰਨਤ ਸ੍ਯਾਮ ਜਥਾਮਤਿ ਭਾਈ ॥੧॥
Barnath Syaam Jathhamath[i] Bhaaee
Guru Gobind Singh Ji narrates according to Gurmat, Oh Brother!
ਜਬ ਜਬ ਹੋਤਿ ਅਰਿਸਟਿ ਅਪਾਰਾ ॥
Jab Jab Hoth[i] Arist[i] Apaaraa
Whenever there have been an unsolvable calamity
ਤਬ ਤਬ ਦੇਹ ਧਰਤ ਅਵਤਾਰਾ ॥
Thab Thab Dhaeh Dhharath Avthaaraa
Then Akaal Purakh takes on a Satoguni Avatar
ਕਾਲ ਸਬਨ ਕੋ ਪੇਖਿ ਤਮਾਸਾ ॥
Kaal Saban Ko Paekh[i] Thamaasaa
Akaal Purakh witness this entire game
ਅੰਤਹਕਾਲ ਕਰਤ ਹੈ ਨਾਸਾ ॥੨॥
A[n]thahkaal Karath Hai naasaa
At the end [of existence], Akaal Purakh destroy everything....
ਆਪਨ ਰੂਪ ਅਨੰਤਨ ਧਰਹੀ ॥
Aapan Roop Ana[n]than Dhharhee
Vaheguru-Themselves take on many forms through their Maya-Shakti
ਆਪਹਿ ਮਧਿ ਲੀਨ ਪੁਨਿ ਕਰਹੀ ॥੩॥
Aapah[i] Madhh[i] Leen Pun[i] Karhee
Vaheguru-Themselves then gathers all of this Manifestation of Maya-Shakti into Themselves [meaning they take on forms then destroys them as well]
-
Please see our Ustat Sri Maya Lachhmee Ji Ki (First Gurbani of Sarbloh Granth) to understand this spiritual concept better.

ਅਥ ਪ੍ਰਥਮ ਮਛ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਕਥਨੰ ॥
Athh Prathham Machh Avthaar Kathhan[ng]
Now the first Avtaar - Machh will be narrated:
ਚੌਪਈ ॥
Chaupae-ee
ਸੰਖਾਸੁਰ ਦਾਨਵ ਪੁਨਿ ਭਯੋ ॥
Sa[n]khaasur Dhaanav Pun[i] Bhayo
There was a demon named Sankh-Asur that came to be...
ਬਹੁ ਬਿਧਿ ਕੈ ਜਗ ਕੋ ਦੁਖ ਦਯੋ ॥
Bah[u] Bidhh[i] Kai Jag Ko Dhukh Dhayo
He troubled the world in many ways... [by stealing the Vedas among other things]
ਮਛ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਆਪਿ ਪੁਨਿ ਧਰਾ ॥
Machh Avthaar Aap[i] Pun[i] Dhharaa
In order to deal with this, Vaheguru took on Their Maya Shakti as a Satoguni Maintainer of Dharam: Machh Avatar
ਆਪਨ ਜਾਪੁ ਆਪ ਮੋ ਕਰਾ ॥੩੯॥
Aapan Jaap[u] Aap Mo Karaa
[but] Machh Avatar had its own name chanted instead of Vaheguru’s
ਪ੍ਰਿਥਮੈ ਤੁਛ ਮੀਨ ਬਪੁ ਧਰਾ ॥
Prithhmai Thuchh Meen Bap[u] Dhharaa
At first, the Fish Avatar was just a small fish
ਪੈਠਿ ਸਮੁੰਦ੍ਰ ਝਕਝੋਰਨ ਕਰਾ ॥
Paitt[i] Samu[n]dhr Jhakjhoran Karaa
Sent to cause a disturbance in the ocean...
ਪੁਨਿ ਪੁਨਿ ਕਰਤ ਭਯੋ ਬਿਸਥਾਰਾ ॥
Pun[i] Pun[i] Karath Bhayo Bisthhaaraa
After doing such, the small fish became quite large
ਸੰਖਾਸੁਰਿ ਤਬ ਕੋਪ ਬਿਚਾਰਾ ॥੪੦॥
Sa[n]khaasur[i] Thab Kop Bichaaraa
The demon Shankh-Asur became filled with rage.
In the Bhujang Prayaath Chhand following this, Guru Maharaj narrate how Shankh-Asur took arms and waged war against Machh Avatar. In the Rasaaval Chhand following, Guru Maharaj narrate the sound and imagery of the battle.
ਕੀਯੋ ਉਧਾਰ ਬੇਦੰ ਹਤੇ ਸੰਖਬੀਰੰ ॥
Keeyo Udhhaar Baedh[ng] Hathae Sa[n]khbeer[ng]
Saving the Vedas, Machh Avatar destroyed Shankh-Asur
ਤਜ੍ਯੋ ਮਛ ਰੂਪੰ ਸਜ੍ਯੋ ਸੁੰਦ੍ਰ ਚੀਰ ॥
Thajyo Machh Roop[ng] Sajyo Su[n]dh Cheer
Making the Physical Form of Machh Avatar, Vishnu went into their Beautifully Dressed Original Self
ਸਬੈ ਦੇਵ ਥਾਪੇ ਕੀਯੋ ਦੁਸਟ ਨਾਸੰ ॥
Sabai Dhaev Thhaapae Keeyo Dhust naas[ng]
Order was restored as the angels/devte were given power and the demons were killed
ਟਰੇ ਸਰਬ ਦਾਨੋ ਭਰੇ ਜੀਵ ਤ੍ਰਾਸੰ ॥੫੩॥
Tarae Sarab Dhaano Bharae Jeev Thraas[ng]
All of the other fear-mongering demons were now scared off.
-

ਅਥ ਕਛ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਕਥਨੰ ॥
Athh Kachh Avthaar Kathhan[ng]
Now Kachh Avatar will be narrated:
ਭੁਜੰਗ ਪ੍ਰਯਾਤ ਛੰਦ ॥
Bhujang Prayaath Chhandh
ਕਿਤੋ ਕਾਲ ਬੀਤਯੋ ਕਰਿਯੋ ਦੇਵ ਰਾਜੰ ॥
Kitho Kaal Beethayo Kareeyo Dhaev Raaj[ng]
Much time went by as the Devte/Angels ruled
ਭਰੇ ਰਾਜ ਧਾਮੰ ਸੁਭੰ ਸਰਬ ਸਾਜੰ ॥
Bharae Raaj Dhhaam[ng] Subh[ng] Sarab Saaj[ng]
Their Kingdom was filled with luxury and beautiful arrangement
ਗਜੰ ਬਾਜ ਬੀਣੰ ਬਿਨਾ ਰਤਨ ਭੂਪੰ ॥
Gaj[ng] Baaj BeeN[ng] Binaa Rathan Bhoop[ng]
However, Indra (king of the angels) did not have any elephants, instruments nor any jewels.
ਕਰਿਯੋ ਬਿਸਨ ਬੀਚਾਰ ਚਿਤੰ ਅਨੂਪੰ ॥੧॥
Kareeyo Bisan Beechaar Chith[ng] Anoop[ng]
Vishnu had a wonderful thought to bring them such...
ਸਬੈ ਦੇਵ ਏਕਤ੍ਰ ਕੀਨੇ ਪੁਰਿੰਦ੍ਰੰ ॥
Sabai Dhaev Aekthr Keenae Puri[n]dhr[ng]
Indra gathered all the angels
ਸਸੰ ਸੂਰਜੰ ਆਦਿ ਲੈ ਕੈ ਉਪਿੰਦ੍ਰੰ ॥
Sas[ng] Sooraj[ng] Aadh[i] Lai Kai Upi[n]dhr[ng]
Including the Moon, Sun, among others to go to Vishnu
ਹੁਤੇ ਦਈਤ ਜੇ ਲੋਕ ਮਧ੍ਯੰ ਹੰਕਾਰੀ ॥
Huthae Dhae-eeth Jae Lok Madhhy[ng] Ha[n]kaaree
Thinking that the Angels are gonna act out of pride
ਭਏ ਏਕਠੇ ਭ੍ਰਾਤਿ ਭਾਵੰ ਬਿਚਾਰੀ ॥੨॥
Bhae Aekattae Bhraath[i] Bhaav[ng] Bichaaree
The Demons gathered their fellow brothers to also discuss.
ਬਦ੍ਯੋ ਅਰਧੁ ਅਰਧੰ ਦੁਹੂੰ ਬਾਟਿ ਲੀਬੋ ॥
Badhyo Ardhh[u] Ardhh[ng] Dhuhoo[ng] BaaN[i] Leebo
Both sides agreed that they would equally split what would be given by Vishnu
ਸਬੋ ਬਾਤ ਮਾਨੀ ਯਹੇ ਕਾਮ ਕੀਬੋ ॥
Sabo Baath Maanee Yahae Kaam Keebo
Everyone agreed and then proceeded to follow up with this event
ਕਰੋ ਮਥਨੀ ਕੂਟ ਮੰਦ੍ਰਾਚਲੇਯੰ ॥
Karo Mathhnee Koot Ma[n]dhraachlaey[ng]
They would use the Mount Mandhraachal as a Pestle (Salothar)
ਤਕ੍ਯੋ ਛੀਰ ਸਾਮੁੰਦ੍ਰ ਦੇਅੰ ਅਦੇਯੰ ॥੩॥
Thakyo Chheer Saamu[n]dhr Dhae[ng] Adhae[ng]
In order for the Angels and Demons to churn the Milk-Ocean
ਕਰੀ ਮਥਕਾ ਬਾਸਕੰ ਸਿੰਧ ਮਧੰ ॥
Karee Mathhkaa Baask[ng] Si[n]dhh Madhh[ng]
The rope would be the Snake-Vasuki which would be placed around the Salothar
ਮਥੈ ਲਾਗ ਦੋਊ ਭਏ ਅਧੁ ਅਧੰ ॥
Mathhai Laag Do-oo Bhae Adhh[u] Adhh[ng]
That which comes out of the churned ocean will be split between the 2 groups
ਸਿਰੰ ਦੈਤ ਲਾਗੇ ਗਹੀ ਪੁਛ ਦੇਵੰ ॥
Sir[ng] Dhaith Laagae Gahee Puchh Dhaev[ng]
The Demons grabbed the head of the snake and the tail was grabbed by the Angels
ਮਥ੍ਯੋ ਛੀਰ ਸਿੰਧੰ ਮਨੋ ਮਾਟਕੇਵੰ ॥੪॥
Mathhyo Chheer Si[n]dhh[ng] Mano Maatkaev[ng]
And began to churn like churning cream in a pot to make butter
ਇਸੋ ਕਉਣ ਬੀਯੋ ਧਰੇ ਭਾਰੁ ਪਬੰ ॥
Iso KouN Beeyo Dhharae Bhaar[u] Pab[ng]
Who could endure the weight of this all?
ਉਠੇ ਕਾਪ ਬੀਰੰ ਦਿਤ੍ਯਾਦਿਤ੍ਯ ਸਬੰ ॥
Uttae kaap Beer[ng] Dhithyaadhithya Sab[ng]
As they needed a Mortar/Base (Sunehra) to place the Salotar upon
ਤਬੈ ਆਪ ਹੀ ਬਿਸਨ ਮੰਤ੍ਰੰ ਬਿਚਾਰਿਯੋ ॥
Thabai Aap Hee Bisan Ma[n]thr[ng]
Then Vishnu Himself reflected...
ਤਰੇ ਪਰਬਤੰ ਕਛਪੰ ਰੂਪ ਧਾਰਿਯੋ ॥੫॥
Tharae Parbath[ng] Kachhap[ng] Roop Dhhareeyo
In order to hold the weight of the mountain, Vishnu took on the form of a Great Turtle - Kachh Avatar
ਇਤਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਬਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਨਾਟਕ ਗ੍ਰੰਥੇ ਕਛੁ ਦੁਤੀਆ ਅਉਤਾਰ ਬਰਨਨੰ ਸੰਪੂਰਨਮ ਸਤੁ ਸੁਭਮ ਸਤੁ ॥੨॥
Ith[i] Sree Bachithr naatak Gra[n]thhae Kachh[u] Dhutheeaa Aouthaar Barnan[ng] Sa[m]pooranam Sath[u] Subham Sath[u]
Here is where Bachitar Naatak Granth’s 2nd Avatar: Kachh’s Narration is complete...
-
Following Kachh Avatar, there are a few chapters narrating the items found within the churned ocean and the battle of ownership between the angels and demons that ensued.
-

ਹਿਰਿਨ੍ਯੋ ਹਿਰਿੰਨਾਛਸੰ ਦੋਇ ਬੀਰੰ ॥
Hirnyo Hiri[n]naachhas[ng] Dhoe[i] Beer[ng]
There were two demon warriors named: Hiranyakhsha and Hiranyakashipu
ਸਬੈ ਲੋਗ ਕੈ ਜੀਤ ਲੀਨੇ ਗਹੀਰੰ ॥
Sabai Log Kai Jeeth Leeno Gaheer[ng]
They conquered all 3 realms (heavens, earth, hells)...
ਹਰੇ ਬੇਦ ਭੂਮੰ ਕੀਏ ਸਰਬ ਭੰਗੰ ॥੩॥
Harae Baedh Bhoom[ng] Kee-ae Sarab Bha[n]g[ng]They stole the Vedas and caused disorder all over the world
ਧਸੀ ਭੂਮਿ ਬੇਦੰ ਰਹੀ ਹੁਐ ਪਤਾਰੰ ॥
Dhhasee Bhoom[i] Baedh[ng] Rahee Huai Pathaar[ng]
The Earth fell into Hell
ਧਰਿਯੋ ਬਿਸਨ ਤਉ ਦਾੜ ਗਾੜਾਵਤਾਰੰ ॥
Dhhareeyo Bisan Tho[u] Dhaarr Gaarraavthaar[ng]
Then Vishnu took on the Form of Baarah - the Boar with scary teeth!
ਧਸ੍ਯੋ ਨੀਰ ਮਧੰ ਕੀਯੋ ਊਚ ਨਾਦੰ ॥
Dhhasyo neer Madhh[ng] Keeyo Oochh naadh[ng]
Launching Himself into the Water and roaring outloud!
ਰਹੀ ਧੂਰਿ ਪੂਰੰ ਧੁਨੰ ਨਿਰਬਖਾਦੰ ॥੪॥
Rahee Dhhoor[i] Poor[ng] Dhhun[ng] nirbakhaadh[ng]
The sound was heard all over the world
ਬਜੇ ਡਾਕ ਡਉਰੂ ਦੋਊ ਬੀਰ ਜਾਗੇ ॥
Bajae Daak Douroo Dho-oo Beer Jaagae
Hearing such a sound, made the two demons arise and command the war trumpets to play!...
ਦਿਨੰ ਅਸਟ ਜੁਧੰ ਭਯੋ ਅਸਟ ਰੈਣੰ ॥
Dhin[ng] Ast Judhh[ng] Bhayo Ast RaiN[ng]
The war was waged for 8 days and 8 nights straight!
ਰਣੰ ਰੰਗ ਰਤੇ ਸਭੈ ਰੰਗ ਭੂਮੰ ॥
RaN[ng] Ra[n]g Rathae Sabhai Ra[n]g Bhoom[ng]
Being absorbed in the rage of war and the colours of the battlefield
ਹਣ੍ਯੋ ਬਿਸਨ ਸਤ੍ਰੰ ਗਿਰਿਯੋ ਅੰਤਿ ਝੂਮੰ ॥੧੨॥
HaNyo Bisan Sathr[ng] Gireeyo A[n]th[i] Jhoom[ng]
The Boar Avatar destroyed the enemies, they fell swinging to the ground
ਧਰੇ ਦਾੜ ਅਗ੍ਰੰ ਚਤੁਰ ਬੇਦ ਤਬੰ ॥
Dhharae Dhaar Agr[ng] Chathur Baedh Tab[ng]
At that time, the Boar Avatar placed all Four Vedas upon the tips of each tusk
ਹਠੀ ਦੁਸਟਿ ਜਿਤੇ ਭਜੇ ਦੈਤ ਸਬੰ ॥
Hattee Dhust[i] Jithae Bhajae Dhaith Sab[ng]
Wherever the intimidating enemies were, they all ran away!
ਦਈ ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਆਗਿਆ ਧੁਨੰ ਬੇਦ ਕੀਯੰ ॥
Dhae-ee Braham Aagiaa Dhun[ng] Baedh Keey[ng]
Brahma was commanded to develop the Dhanurveda - the Vedic Text on Archery and Warfare
ਸਬੈ ਸੰਤਨੰ ਤਾਨ ਕੋ ਸੁਖ ਦੀਯੰ ॥੧੩॥
Sabai Sa[n]than[ng] Thaan Ko Sukh Dheeya[n]g
Being the Strength of all of the Saints, they were now in peace....
ਥਟਿਯੋ ਧਰਮ ਰਾਜੰ ਜਿਤੇ ਦੇਵ ਸਰਬੰ ॥
Thhateeyo Dhharam Raaj[ng] Jithae Dhaev Sarb[ng]
This is established the Rule of Dharam (Righteousness) under the control of the Angels
ਉਤਾਰਿਯੋ ਭਲੀ ਭਾਤ ਸੋ ਤਾਹਿ ਗਰਬੰ ॥੧੪॥
Uthareeyo Bhalee Bhaath So Thaah[i] Garab[ng][The coming of this Avatar] destroyed the egotistic
ਇਤਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਬਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਨਾਟਕ ਗ੍ਰੰਥੇ ਬੈਰਾਹ ਖਸਟਮ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਸਮਾਪਤਮ ਸਤੁ ਸੁਭਮ ਸਤੁ ॥੬॥
Ith[i] Sree Bachithr naatak Gra[n]thhae Bairaah Khastam Avthaar Smaapthm Sath[u] Subham Sath[u]
Here is where Bachitar Naatak Granth’s 6th Avatar: Kachh’s Narration is complete...

ਅਥ ਬਾਵਨ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਬਰਨੰ ॥
Athh Baavan Avthaar Baran[ng]
Now begins the narration of the Baavan Avatar:...
ਪੁਨਰ ਭੂਮਿ ਮੋ ਪਾਪਾ ਬਾਢ੍ਯੋ ਅਪਾਰੰ ॥
Punar Bhoom[i] Mo Paapaa Baadtyo Apaar[ng]
[Some time passed and] sin began to grow exponentially on the earth
ਕਰੇ ਲਾਗ ਜਗੰ ਪੁਨਰ ਦੈਤ ਦਾਨੰ ॥
Karae Laag Jag[ng] Punar Dhaith Dhaan[ng]
The demons began to carry out fire-sacrifices...
ਬਲਿ ਰਾਜ ਕੀ ਦੇਹਿ ਬਢਿਯੋ ਗੁਮਾਨੰ ॥੧॥
Bal[i] Raaj Kee Dhaeh[i] Batdyeeo Gumaan[ng]
The demon king of the time was Bali whose body was filled with ego!
ਨ ਪਾਵੈ ਬਲੰ ਦੇਵਤਾ ਜਗ ਬਾਸੰ ॥
na Paavai Bal[ng] Dhaevthaa Jag Baas[ng]
The angels lost all power and were not allowed to make any fire-sacrifices
ਭਈ ਇੰਦ੍ਰ ਕੀ ਰਾਜਧਾਨੀ ਬਿਨਾਸੰ ॥
Bhae-ee I[n]dhr Kee Raajdhhaanee Binaas[ng]
Indra’s Capital (the king of heaven’s kingdom) was destroyed
ਕਰੀ ਜੋਗ ਅਰਾਧਨਾ ਸਰਬ ਦੇਵੰ ॥
Karee Jog Araadhhnaa Sarab Dhaev[ng]
All of the angels started to meditate
ਪ੍ਰਸੰਨੰ ਭਏ ਕਾਲ ਪੁਰਖੰ ਅਭੇਵੰ ॥੨॥
Pras[n]n[ng] Bhae Kaal Purakh[ng] Abhaev[ng]
Akaal Purakh became pleased with them...
ਧਰੋ ਬਾਵਨਾ ਬਿਸਨੁ ਅਸਟਮ ਵਤਾਰੰ ॥
Dhharo Baavnaa Bisan[u] Astam Vthaar[ng]
Vishnu took on the 8th Avatar as Baavan Avataar - the Dwarf Brahmin
ਲਈ ਬਿਸਨੁ ਆਗਿਆ ਚਲਿਯੋ ਧਾਇ ਐਸੇ ॥
Lae-ee Bisan[u] Aagiaa Chaleeyo Dhhaae[i] Aisae
Vishnu asked permission from Akaal Purakh in order to go and save the world...
ਸਰੂਪ ਛੋਟ ਧਾਰਿ ਕੈ ॥
Saroop Chhot Dhhar[i] Kai
Taking on the Form of a Dwarf Brahmin...
ਸਭਾ ਨਰੇਸ ਜਾਨ੍ਯੋ ॥
Sabhaa naraes Jaanyo
Finding the Court of the Demon King Bali
ਤਹੀ ਸੁ ਪਾਵ ਠਾਨ੍ਯੋ ॥੪॥
Thahee Su Paav Ttaanyo
He went and stayed there
ਸੁ ਬੇਦ ਚਾਰ ਉਚਾਰ ਕੈ ॥
Su Baedh Chaar Uchaar Kai
Baavan Avatar recited the Four Vedas
ਸੁਣ੍ਯੋ ਨ੍ਰਿਪੰ ਸੁਧਾਰ ਕੈ ॥
SuNyo nrip[ng] Sudhhaar Kai
Bali listened carefully (Bali didn’t know the Brahmin was Avatar of Vishnu)...Bali wished to offer something in donation to Baavan for his recitation...
ਅਢਾਇ ਪਾਵ ਭੂਮਿ ਦੈ ॥
Atdaa-i Paav Bhoom[i] Dhai
Baavan asked for 2.5 feet worth of land (in measurement of the dwarf’s foot size, the king saw this as barely anything)...
-
The Demon King’s Advisor Shukarcharya advises the king not to give it to the dwarf (there was a trick in it)...
-
ਐਸ ਤਬੈ ਨਿਜ ਦੇਹ ਬਢਾਯੋ ॥
Ais Thabai nij Dhaeh Batdaayo
The Dwarf Avatar’s body grew so much!
ਲੋਕ ਛੇਦਿ ਪਰਲੋਕਿ ਸਿਧਾਯੋ ॥੨੦॥
Lok Chhaedh[i] Parlok[i] Sidhhaayo
It got so big, it went into the heavens!
ਏਕੈ ਪਾਵ ਪਤਾਰਹਿ ਛੂਆ ॥
Aekai Paav Pathaarah[i]Chhuaa
1 foot of his went into hell
ਦੂਸਰ ਪਾਵ ਗਗਨ ਲਉ ਹੂਆ ॥
Dhusar Paav Gagan Lou Huaa
The second foot went into the sky/heavens...
ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਭੂਪ ਅਚੰਭਵ ਲਹਾ ॥
Ih Bidhh[i] Bhoop Acha[n]bhav Lahaa
In this way, the King became wonderstruck!
ਮਨ ਕ੍ਰਮ ਬਚਨ ਚਕ੍ਰਿਤ ਹੁਐ ਰਹਾ ॥
Man Kram Bachan Chakrith Huai Rahaa
The king became astounded in his thoughts, words and actions
ਅਰਧਿ ਦੇਹਿ ਅਪਨੋ ਮਿਨਿ ਦੀਨਾ ॥
Aradhh[i] Dhaeh[i] Apno Dheenaa
For the remaining half of a foot, the King stepped forward to be stepped on(he bowed his ego and offered himself to Vishnu)
ਇਹ ਬਿਧਿ ਕੈ ਭੂਪਤਿ ਜਸੁ ਲੀਨਾ ॥
Ih Bidhh[i] Kai Bhoopath[i] Jas[u] Leenaa
In this way, the demon king gained glory!
ਬਿਸਨ ਪ੍ਰਸੰਨਿ ਪ੍ਰਤਛ ਹੁਐ ਕਹਾ ॥
Bisan Prasa[n]n Prathachh Huai Kahaa
Vishnu became pleased with Bali and showed him his normal form as Vishnu then said:
ਚੋਬਦਾਰੁ ਦੁਆਰੇ ਹੁਐ ਰਹਾ ॥
Chobh-dhaar Dhuaarae Huai Rahaa
You will be the Gatekeeper at my doors!...
ਦੋਹਰਾ ॥
Dhoharaa
ਜਹ ਸਾਧਨ ਸੰਕਟ ਪਰੈ ਤਹ ਤਹ ਭਏ ਸਹਾਇ ॥
Jah Saadhhan Sa[n]kat Parai Thah Thah Bhae Sahaa-i
Whenever the Saints are facing obstacles then they will be helped by Akaal Purakh’s Manifestation of Powers...
ਇਤਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਬਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਨਾਟਕ ਗ੍ਰੰਥੇ ਬਾਵਨ ਅਸਟਮੋ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਬਲਿ ਛਲਨ ਸਮਾਪਤਮ ਸਤੁ ਸੁਭਮ ਸਤੁ ॥੮॥
Ith[i] Sree Bachithr naatak Gra[n]thhae Baavan Astamo Avthaar Bal[i] Chhalan Smaaptham Sath[u] Subham Sath[u]
Here is where the narration of Bachitar Naatak Granth’s 8th Avatar: Baavan tricking Demon King Bali is complete...
-

The Narsingh Avatar actually takes place before Baavan Avatar but Guru Maharaj are not writing this Doharaa in any particular order.
ਅਥ ਨਰਸਿੰਘ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਕਥਨੰ ॥
Athh narSi[n]gh Avthaar Kathhan[ng]
Now begins the Narration of the NarSingh Avatar:...
ਜਬ ਦੇਵਤਾਨ ਬਢਿਯੋ ਗਰੂਰ ॥
Jab Dhaevthaan Batdeeyo Garoor
The Angels became egotistical as they had a comfortable reign
ਬਲਵੰਤ ਦੈਤ ਉਠੇ ਕਰੂਰ ॥੧॥
Balva[n]th Dhaith Uttae Karoor
The Cruel and Strong Demons then arose once again!
ਲਿਨੋ ਛਿਨਾਇ ਦਿਵਰਾਜ ਰਾਜ ॥
Lino Chhinaa-i Dhivraaj Raaj
They took over the Angels’ kingdom [and disorder came to be]...
ਜਲੰ ਬਾ ਥਲੇਅੰ ਹਿਰਿਨਾਛ ਰਾਇ ॥੨॥
Jal[ng] Baa Thhalae-a[ng] Hirinaachh Raa-i
By taking over the Heavens, the Demon King Hirnaachh became Ruler
-
King Hirinaachh had a child named Prehlaad who became a Bhagat of Vaheguru.This love for Vaheguru created an angry King Hirnaach who only wanted himself to be worshipped.
Here is a Shabad from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji narrating the events of this Avatar:
ਪ੍ਰਹਲਾਦ ਪਠਾਏ ਪੜਨ ਸਾਲ ॥
Prahlaadh Pattaa-ae Parran Saal
Prahlaad Ji was sent to school
ਸੰਗਿ ਸਖਾ ਬਹੁ ਲੀਏ ਬਾਲ ॥
Sa[n]g[i] Sakhaa Bah[u] Lee-ae Baal
He brought young friends around his age to school
ਮੋ ਕਉ ਕਹਾ ਪੜ੍ਹ੍ਹਾਵਸਿ ਆਲ ਜਾਲ ॥
Mo Ko[u] Kahaa Parrhaavas[i] Aal Jaal
He told the teacher: ‘Why are you teaching me such useless things?
ਮੇਰੀ ਪਟੀਆ ਲਿਖਿ ਦੇਹੁ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੋੁਪਾਲ ॥੧॥
Maeree Pateeaa Likh[i] Dhaeh[u] Sree Gopaal
Just write the Name of God upon my tablet...
ਨਹੀ ਛੋਡਉ ਰੇ ਬਾਬਾ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ॥
nahee chhodo[u] Rae Baabaa Raam naam
I won't let go of calling God’s Name
ਮੇਰੋ ਅਉਰ ਪੜ੍ਹ੍ਹਨ ਸਿਉ ਨਹੀ ਕਾਮੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Maero Aour Parrhan Sio[u] nahee Kaam[u] ; Rahaao[u] ;
I don’t have any desire to learn about at anything else’
ਸੰਡੈ ਮਰਕੈ ਕਹਿਓ ਜਾਇ ॥
Sa[n]dai Markai KahiO Jaa-iSandai and Markai (his teachers) began to speak [to the Demon King Hirnaachh]
ਪ੍ਰਹਲਾਦ ਬੁਲਾਏ ਬੇਗਿ ਧਾਇ ॥
Prahlaadh Bulaa-ae Baeg[i] Dhhaae[i]
[Hirnaachh] summoned Prahlaad Ji to come to his court immediately
ਤੂ ਰਾਮ ਕਹਨ ਕੀ ਛੋਡੁ ਬਾਨਿ ॥
Thoo Raam Kahan Kee Chhod[u] Baan[i]
‘Let go of chanting the Name of God...
ਤੁਝੁ ਤੁਰਤੁ ਛਡਾਊ ਮੇਰੋ ਕਹਿਓ ਮਾਨਿ ॥੨॥
Thujh[u] Thurath[u] Chhadaaoo Maero KahiO Maan[i]
I will let you go free if you listen to my command.’
ਮੋ ਕਉ ਕਹਾ ਸਤਾਵਹੁ ਬਾਰ ਬਾਰ ॥
Mo Ko[u] Kahaa Sathaavaah[u] Baar Baar
[Prahlaad Ji:] ‘Why are you bothering me over and over?
ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਜਲ ਥਲ ਗਿਰਿ ਕੀਏ ਪਹਾਰ ॥
Prabh[i] Jal Thhal Gir[i] Kee-ae Pahaar
Vaheguru is the one who created the water, the land, the mountains
ਇਕੁ ਰਾਮੁ ਨ ਛੋਡਉ ਗੁਰਹਿ ਗਾਰਿ ॥
Ik[u] Raam[u] na Chhodo[u] Gurah[i] Gaar[i]
I will not let go of chanting the Name of God, I would be going against my Guru if I do so
ਮੋ ਕਉ ਘਾਲਿ ਜਾਰਿ ਭਾਵੈ ਮਾਰਿ ਡਾਰਿ ॥੩॥
Mo Ko[u] Ghaal[i] Jaar[i] Bhaavai Maar[i] Daar[i]
So you can make me suffer, try to burn me or even kill me [I won’t stop]’
ਕਾਢਿ ਖੜਗੁ ਕੋਪਿਓ ਰਿਸਾਇ ॥
Kaatd[i] Kharrag[u] KopiO Risaa-i
Hirinaach angrily pulled out his sword in rage:
ਤੁਝ ਰਾਖਨਹਾਰੋ ਮੋਹਿ ਬਤਾਇ ॥
Thujh Raakhanhaaro Moh[i] Bathaa-i‘
Tell me where is your protector now!’
ਪ੍ਰਭ ਥੰਭ ਤੇ ਨਿਕਸੇ ਕੈ ਬਿਸਥਾਰ ॥
Prabh Tha[n]bh Thae niksae Kai BisthhaarVaheguru manifested in their Satoguni Form and came out of a pillar[as NarSingh Avatar - half man/half lion]
ਹਰਨਾਖਸੁ ਛੇਦਿਓ ਨਖ ਬਿਦਾਰ ॥੪॥
Harnaakhas[u] ChhaedhiO nakh BidhaarHarnaakhsh was torn apart by the nails of NarSingh
ਓਇ ਪਰਮ ਪੁਰਖ ਦੇਵਾਧਿ ਦੇਵ ॥
O-i Param Purakh Dhaevaadhh[i] DhaevIt is that Supreme Being... the Holiest of the Holiest
ਭਗਤਿ ਹੇਤਿ ਨਰਸਿੰਘ ਭੇਵ ॥
Bhagath[i] Haeth[i]narsi[n]gh Bhaev
That took on the Form of the Mysterious NarSingh to protect their Bhagat/Devotee
ਕਹਿ ਕਬੀਰ ਕੋ ਲਖੈ ਨ ਪਾਰ ॥
Kah[i] Kabeer Ko Lakhai na Paar
Bhagat Kabeer Ji says: No one can ever understand the Limits of Vaheguru
ਪ੍ਰਹਲਾਦ ਉਧਾਰੇ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਾਰ ॥੫॥੪॥
Prahlaadh Udhhaarae Anik BaarMany like Bhagat Prahlaad will be protected over and over.
(Bhagat Kabeer Ji in Raag Basanth, Ang 1194)
-
It is interesting that Hirinaachh was egotistic and so sure that his blessing of not being killed inside nor outside, not by man nor beast, not on the ground nor in the sky, nor day nor night... etc. that he would be immortal. So when NarSingh kills him... he is neither beast nor man (he is a combination of both), he is killed at sandhya (twilight time between day & night/sunrise/sunset), he is killed in NarSinghs lap (neither on the ground nor in the sky), he is killed within a door way (neither inside nor outside)... There is always a way Vaheguru can break your ego.

ਅਥ ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਤੇਈਸਵੌ ਕਥਨੰ ॥
Athh B-ouoodhh Avthaar Thae-eesvau Kathan[ng]
Now begins the narration of the Thirteenth Avatar: Buddha
ਚੌਪਈ ॥
Chaupaee
ਅਬ ਮੈ ਗਨੋ ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰਾ ॥
Ab Mai Gano B-ouoodhh Avthaaraa
Now begins the account of the Budhha Avatar
ਜੈਸ ਰੂਪ ਕਹੁ ਧਰਾ ਮੁਰਾਰਾ ॥
Jais Roop Kah[u] Dhharaa Muraaraa
In the way Vishnu took on this incarnation...
ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਇਹੀ ਕੋ ਨਾਊ ॥
B-ouoodhh Avthaar Ihee Ko naaoo
Budhha Avatar is the Name of the Avatar
ਜਾਕਰ ਨਾਵ ਨ ਥਾਵ ਨ ਗਾਊ ॥੧॥
Jaakar naav na Thhaav Gaaoo
Who has no name, no place of origin nor residence
ਜਾਕਰ ਨਾਵ ਨ ਠਾਵ ਬਖਾਨਾ ॥
Jaakar naav na Ttaav Bakhaanaa
The one who is described as not have any name or place attached to him
ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਵਹੀ ਪਹਚਾਨਾ ॥
B-ouoodhh Avthaar Vahee Pahachaanaa
That is known to be Budhha Avatar
ਸਿਲਾ ਸਰੂਪ ਰੂਪ ਤਿਹ ਜਾਨਾ ॥
Silaa Saroop Roop Thih Jaanaa
People know him through the stone idol
ਕਥਾ ਨ ਜਾਹਿ ਕਲੂ ਮਹਿ ਮਾਨਾ ॥੨॥
Kathhaa na Jaah[i] Kaloo Mah[i] Maanaa
People cannot describe him in this Kalyug accurately so he cannot be properly followed
ਦੋਹਰਾ ॥
Dhoharaa
ਰੂਪ ਰੇਖ ਜਾਕਰ ਨ ਕਛੁ ਅਰੁ ਕਛੁ ਨਹਿਨ ਆਕਾਰ ॥
Roop Raekh Jaakar na Kachh[u] Ar[u] Kachh[u] nahin Aakaar
The One who does not have any form, any symbols... nor any other manifestation
ਸਿਲਾ ਰੂਪ ਬਰਤਤ ਜਗਤ ਸੋ ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰ ॥੩॥
Silaa Roop Barthath Jagath So B-ouoodhh
Only known by the Stone Idol... so is known to be Budhha Avatar...
ਇਤਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਬਚਿਤ੍ਰ ਨਾਟਕ ਗ੍ਰੰਥੇ ਬਊਧ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਤੇਈਸਵੋ ਸਮਾਪਤਮ ਸਤੁ ਸੁਭਮ ਸਤੁ ॥੨੩॥
Ith[i] Sree Bachithar naatak Gra[n]thhae B-ouoodhh Avthaar Thae-eesvo Smaaptham Sath[u] Subham Sath[u]
Here is where the narration of Bachitar Naatak Granth’s 23rd Avatar: Buddha is complete...

...Many people argue as to who this Budhha Avatar refers to but Guru Sahib refers to that Budhha who does not have any name or specific form. So this does not refer to Sidhharta Gautama which is the well-known Buddha of the Buddhist traditions. Even within these traditions, there are many people who can be the Buddha - not just the one from the main Buddhist traditions.
Historically, the Buddhist train of thought removed power from the Brahmins of India in the spiritual process. Many think that Buddha was appropriated by the Brahmins in order to rewrite the narrative to fit their ritual practices according to the Vedas. Buddhists don’t accept Sidhhartha Gautama as an avatar of Vishnu but completely separate. Although both traditions are seen as a Dharmic but Vaishnavism, Brahminism, and other Vedic schools of thought are Ashtik - meaning: they believe in a God[s], whereas, Buddhist schools are Nashthik - meaning: They don’t believe in a God. The end goal is enlightenment for both of them but each of them have different means and understandings to reach that point. Perhaps, Guru Maharaj is referring to the Aadhee-Buddha... the original Buddha who is a Cosmic Budhha which does not have a specific name or form.

Behind all these Avatars is not just Vishnu but Vaheguru. The following example was explained by Giani Gurwinder Singh Ji Nangli about the perception of reality. Imagine it is a hot day and there is an air conditioner cooling the room. The average person would say: ‘Wow! This air conditioner is such a great way to cool us’. An intelligent person would say:‘It is not the air conditioner - itself - which provides us the cool air... it is the fan inside.’ An all-knowing being would say: ‘Although, it is the fan inside the air conditioner that provides the cool air... ultimately, it is the electricity running through the air conditioner which provides power to all’. This example allows us to realize that it is not Vishnu which brings the protection but the Maya-Shakti. Vishnu is a personification of Satogun (quality of preservation/maintenance/nurturing/protection), 1 of Maya’s 3 Forms. The Personification of Tamogun (quality of destruction/laziness/animal nature) is Shiv Ji. The Personification of Rajogun (quality of activity/passion/creativity) is Brahma.
ਏਕਾ ਮਾਈ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਵਿਆਈ ਤਿਨਿ ਚੇਲੇ ਪਰਵਾਣੁ ॥
Aekaa Maaee Jugath[i] Viaaee Thin[i] Chaelae ParvaaN[u]
There is one Mother who is bound to the 3 servants:
ਇਕੁ ਸੰਸਾਰੀ ਇਕੁ ਭੰਡਾਰੀ ਇਕੁ ਲਾਏ ਦੀਬਾਣੁ ॥
Ik[u] Sa[n]saaree Ik[u] Bha[n]daaree Ik[u] Laa-ae Dhee BaaN[u]
One who maintains, one who creates, one destroys
(Sri Japji Sahib)
This Maya Shakti actually belongs to Vaheguru. Vaheguru are ultimately Formless but when they decided to take on Form, They use Their Maya Shakti to do so. Maya-Shakti is the Ultimate Source Power where all other Powers like protection, creation, destruction fall under.

Likewise, Giani Ji expands upon the example by referring to politics. Imagine a village where a road has been paved. The villager thanks the village’s sarpanch (mayor) for making it happen. The educated person tells him that it’s due to their local MLA/MP (member of legislative assembly/member of parliament) that the road was paved. The politically wise would say it’s ultimately due to their Prime Minister that the road was paved so thank them.
So Vaheguru Ji, You are the Essence of the Entire Universe. Where You have protected many in the Avatars of Vishnu (Your Satogun Power), it is all You - Vaheguru behind the Entire Play:
ਵਡਹੰਸੁ ਮਹਲਾ ੪ ॥
Vadha[n]s Mahalla 4
ਮੇਰਾ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸੁੰਦਰੁ ਮੈ ਸਾਰ ਨ ਜਾਣੀ ॥
Maeraa Har[i] Prabh[u] Su[n]dhar[u] Mai Saar na JaaNee
My Vaheguru is so Beautiful, I could not understand Their Value!
ਹਉ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਛੋਡਿ ਦੂਜੈ ਲੋਭਾਣੀ ॥੧॥
Ho[u] Har[i] Prabh Chhod[u] Dhoojai LobhaaNee
I had let go of my Vaheguru and gotten lost in duality [in perception of existence]
(Ang 561)
In conclusion, there is no difference between Vaheguru’s Formless State and Their Maya. It is all seen as the One Undivided/Unseparated Existence.
-
Please listen to the following katha by Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Ji Bhindranwale about the Chaubis Avatar:

-
Please forgive any mistakes! Suggest any additions or omissions
Guru Panth Ka Daas,
Aaeenaa