Caste-based Discrimination
In this section, Bhai Kahn Singh highlight Hindu sources which shows the inherent inequality and manipulation of religion to fit certain people's desires at the cost of persecuting others. After this, Bhai Sahib show us the Gurbani which speaks against these practices and taking the power away from Brahmin's. [TN = Translator's Note, “” = same source as above]
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You heavily believe in caste/class based discrimination but [because of this] you have committed injustices against the subjects (living beings) of Vaheguru. We give proofs from your own books. Look! The following is said about Brahmins:
‘All of the wealth in the world belongs to Brahmins. Being born from the face of Brahma, everything worth accepting belongs to the Brahmin. If someone offers food, clothing or other things to Brahmin then don’t take that to be a Brahmin using someone else’s things. Everything in the world belongs to the Brahmin’
(Manoo Simrithee, Adhiyaye 1, verse 100-101)
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‘If a king finds buried treasure then half of it should be kept by the king and the other half should be given to a Brahmin.
(Manoo Smrithee, Adhiyaye 6, verse 38)
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Whether an idiot (uneducated/ignorant) or educated, the Brahmin is a great deity. Whether versed or not versed in the mantra’s, they are the forms of the deity of fire.
(Manoo Smrithee,Adhiyaye 9, verse 347)
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If a Brahmin steals then the king should punish him because the king let the Brahmin become hungry and it is the king’s incompetence that caused him to steal.
(“”, Adhiyaye 11, verse 22)
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Even if the Brahmin walks on the wrong path, they are still worthy of worship. Even the lowest caste person who has conquered his senses is not worthy of worship...
(Paraasar Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 3)
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If a Brahmin wishes to do farming, it doesn’t matter how much land he wishes to farm.. He does not need to give anything (ie tax or a share) to anyone because the Brahmin is the master of everything)(Brihath Paraasar Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 3)
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Even if a Brahmin does not act which is against the Vedas then they are not to be seen as a sinner. Just like fire can turn everything into ashes. If a [Brahmin] girl has sex with her lover then she will not take on any sins.
(Brihath Paraasar Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 2;
and see: Athr[i] Samhithaa)
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In contrast to the Brahmin, see the bad way of looking towards the “Shudra/low-caste”:
If a lowest caste is king somewhere then one should not live there
(Manoo Simrithee, Adhiyaye 4, Verse 62)
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Don’t educate a Shudhra/lowest caste, don’t give them food that is left over from a fire sacrifice, and never give them teachings about religion
(“”, Verse 80)
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The Shhoodhraa/lowest caste is born from the feet (of Brahma). If the Shudhra speaks harshly to a Brahmin, Chhathree, Vaishya then the king should have his tongue cut off.
(“”, 8th Adhiyaye, Verse 270)
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If the Shudhraa speaks strongly and calls the names of the Brahmin, Chhathree, Vaishya (Dhwijaathee) then take a 10-finger length red hot iron stake and shove it in their mouth. If the Shudhra is egotistic and starts to teach the Brahmin about Dharam then the king should pour hot oil into his ears and mouth.
(“”, 8th Adhiyaye, verse 271-272)
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If the Shudhra hits a Dhwijaathee (Brahmin, Chhathree, Vaishya) then whichever body part they used to hit, have that body part be cut off(“”, 8th Adhiyaye, verse 79)
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If the Shudhra becomes wealthy then they shouldn’t save money, if a Shudhra becomes wealthy then they negatively affect the Brahmin
(“”, 30th Adhiyaye, verse 229)
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The food of the Shudhra is equivalent to blood, if you have the Shudhra’s food in your stomach and you have sex then the child will also be considered to be Shudhra
(Laghoo Athr[i] Samhithaa, 5th Adhiyaye)
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If a Shudhra does Jap (chanting) and fire sacrifice, the king should have them killed(Athr[i] Samhithaa)
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This type of training had an affect upon Sri Ram Chandra ji when he killed a Shudhra doing Thap/Tap (spiritual hardship), the story of this is as follows:
A Shoodhar/lowest caste person was doing Thap and was killed in order to make a Brahmin’s son come back to life. Sri Ram Chandra Ji reached the forest/jungle and asked the Shudhra doing Thap: ‘Who are you?” The Shudhra said: “Oh Raam! I am a Shudhra named Shambook who wants to get to heaven and doing Thap in order to get there”. After hearing this, Sri Ram Chandra Ji took a sword out of the sheath and beheaded him. At the time, deities/angels from the sky started to shower Sri Ram Chandra Ji with flowers and told Sri Ram Chandra Ji did a good deed by killing the Shudhra and preventing him from coming to heaven. Please ask us for a blessing.
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Ram Chandra Ji then said: ‘Oh Devtae/Angels/Deities! If you are pleased with me then bring the Brahmin’s dead son back to life’ The Devtae then said: ‘Oh Raam! He came back to life as soon as you had beheaded the Shudhraa/lowest caste’(Baalmeek RaamaayaN, Uthar Kaa[n]d, 76th Adhiyaye)
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If a Shudhraa drinks Panch Gavya (A mixture of cow feces, cow urine, ghee, milk, yogurt as per Athr[i] Samhithaa) then he/she will go to hell
(Vishnoo Simrithee, Adhiyaye 54)
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If a Brahmin eats the food of a Shudhra then he will spend 7 births as a dog, 9 births as a pig and 8 births as a vulture.
(Bridhh Ath[i] Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 5)
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If a Brahmin dies after eating the food of a Shudhra then his body will turn into a pig or a dog
(Aapastha[n]b Simrithee, Adhiyaye 8)
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If the Shudhra drinks the milk of the Kapilaa cow and tries to interpret the Veda’s then he/she will definitely go to hell.
(Paraasar Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 2)
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Shudhra should not be educated, shouldn’t be taught lessons on religion and fasting etc. Whoever teaches a Shudhra these things, they will go to the deep darkness of hell along with the Shudhraa.
(Vashisht Samhithaa, Adhiyaye 18)
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A shudhra shouldn’t eat on a dish/plate but should eat off of the ground because the Shudhra and the dog are equal.
(Aapastha[n]b Simrithee, Adhiyaye 9, Verse 34)
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Hindu: You don’t accept the categorization of people as part of the Sikh Dharam but Guru Nanak Sahib express grief for those that go away from the Varan/Caste Maryada and also condemn the enemy’s language, as per:
ਖਤ੍ਰੀਆ ਤ ਧਰਮੁ ਛੋਡਿਆ ਮਲੇਛ ਭਾਖਿਆ ਗਹੀ ॥
Khathreeaa Tha Dhharam Chhodiaa Malechh Bhaakhiaa Gahee
ਸ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਸਭ ਇਕ ਵਰਨ ਹੋਈ ਧਰਮ ਕੀ ਗਤਿ ਰਹੀ ॥੩॥
Srisat[i] Sabh Ik Varan Hoee Dhharam Kee Gath[i] Rahee
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Dhanaasaree, Ang 663)
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Sikh: Beloved Hindu Ji! This is what Guru Sahib are actually teaching: the brave warrior/kings that used to protect the subjects then went against their Dharam Shaasthraa’s and under the influence of fear and bribery, they relinquished the Veda’s and Shaasthra’s and began to read the Mughal regime’s religious texts ie the Quran. They were the same people that disrespected their own language (which they referred to as the language of the angels {Dev-Bhashaa}) then sought the support of the languages of Arabic and Farsi. When that happened then they allowed for the entire South Asia to become Hindustan and the conversions happened. Dharam began to vanish. It is the principle of Guru Sahib’s Teachings that the country whose people have fallen from good character and instead lose their Dharam for flattery, fear, and greed - those people are greatly unrighteous and lowly.
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If Guru Sahib truly were against the languages of the foreigners/invaders then Guru Maharaj wouldn’t teach us using those languages:
ਯਕ ਅਰਜ ਗੁਫਤਮ ਪੇਸਿ ਤੋ ਦਰ ਗੋਸ ਕੁਨ ਕਰਤਾਰ ॥
Yak Arj Guphtham Paes-i-Tho Dhar Gos Kun Karthaar
I have one Ardaas prayer to offer to You - Vaheguru, please listen to it!
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Thila[n]g, Ang 721)
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If you speak about Guru Sahib saying that the Rules about Caste were important even in Sikh Dharam then you wouldn’t find:
....ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਇਕ ਵਰਨੁ ਕਰਾਇਆ ॥....॥੨੩॥
...Chaar[i] Varan Ik Varan[u] Karaa-iaa
They made all 4 Castes into One...(Bhai Gurdaas Ji in their Vaaran)
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My beloved Hindu brother! Guru Sahib are not in favour of one caste over another, they see all of the beings in this world as:
ਏਕੁ ਪਿਤਾ ਏਕਸ ਕੇ ਹਮ ਬਾਰਿਕ...॥
Aek[u] Pithaa, Aekas Kae Ham Baarik
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Soratt, Ang 611)
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ਤੁਮ ਮਾਤ ਪਿਤਾ ਹਮ ਬਾਰਿਕ ਤੇਰੇ ॥
Thum Maath Pithaa Ham Baarik Thaerae
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji in Raag Gourree, Sukhmani Sahib, Ang 268)
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Here! Listen to Guru Sahib’s Holy teachings in regards to Jaathee/Caste classifications:
ਫਕੜ ਜਾਤੀ ਫਕੜੁ ਨਾਉ ॥
Phakarr Jaathee Phakarr[u] naao[u]
Pride in your caste is empty,
Pride in your name/reputation is useless
ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਇਕਾ ਛਾਉ॥
Sabhnaa Jeeaa Ikaa Chhaao[u]
All living beings are given Shade by the One Vaheguru
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Siree Raag Kee Vaar, Ang 83)
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ਜਾਣਹੁ ਜੋਤਿ ਨ ਪੂਛਹੁ ਜਾਤੀ ਆਗੈ ਜਾਤਿ ਨ ਹੇ॥
JaaNah[u] Joth[i] na Poochhah[u] Jaathee, Aagai Jaath[i] na Hae
Know the [One] Light within, don’t ask about someone’s caste,There are no castes in the afterlife...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Aasaa, Ang 349)
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ਅਗੈ ਜਾਤਿ ਨ ਜੋਰੁ ਹੈ ਅਰੈ ਜੀਉ ਨਵੇ॥
Agai Jaath[i] na Jor[u] Hai, Agai Jeeo[u] navae
In the afterlife, there is no caste nor the manipulation attached to it,The soul becomes renewed!
ਜਿਨ ਕੀ ਲੇਖੈ ਪਤਿ ਪਵੈ ਚੰਗੇ ਸੋਈ ਕੇਇ ॥
Jin Kee Laekhai Path[i] Pavai Cha[n]gae Soee Ko-i
Those who have honour in their karmic account, [only] they are said to be good
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Aasaa Kee Vaar, Ang 469)
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ਜਾਤਿ ਜਨਮੁ ਨਹ ਪੂਛੀਐ ਸਚਘਰੁ ਲੇਹੁ ਬਤਾਇ ॥
Jaath[i] Janam[u] nah Poochheeai, Sach-Ghar[u] Laeh[u] Bathaa-i
In the afterlife, you are not asked about your caste or which family you are born in, you must find your real house...
ਸਾ ਜਾਤਿ ਸਾ ਪਤਿ ਹੈ ਜੇਹੇ ਕਰਮ ਕਮਾਇ ॥
Saa Jaath[i] Saa Path[i] Hai Jaehae Karam Kamaa-i
There you will be classified or share status with those who have similar Karma...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Prabhaathee, Ang 1330)
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ਨਾਮਾ ਛੀਬਾ ਕਬੀਰੁ ਜੋਲਾਹਾ ਪੂਰੇ ਗੁਰ ਤੇ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਈ ॥
naamaa Chheebaa Kabeer[u] Jolaahaa Poorae Gur Thae Gath[i] Paaee
Bhagat Naamdev Ji were a Chheemba (cloth dyer/printer, tailor), Bhagat Kabeer Ji were a Julaaha (weaver)... but they attained the complete enlightenment through Guru Sahib - Vaheguru Ji
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਕੇ ਬੇਤੇ ਸਬਦੁ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਹਉਮੈ ਜਾਤਿ ਗਵਾਈ ॥
Brahm Kae Baethae Sabadh[u] PachhaNah[i], Houmai Jaath[i] Gavaaee
They realized Brahm-Vaheguru through the Shabad, they lost all pride/ego-attachment from their worldly-defined castes.
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji Maharaj in Siree Raag, Ang 67)
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ਆਗੈ ਜਾਤਿ ਰੂਪੁ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥
Aagai Jaath[i] Roop[u] na Jaa-i
In the afterlife, there is no caste nor your physical form [beauty]
ਤੇਹਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਜੇਹੇ ਕਰਮ ਕਮਾਇ ॥
Thaehaa Hovai Jaehae Karam Kamaa-i
That will happen which is based on Your Karma
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji Maharaj in Raag Aasaa, Ang 363)
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ਅਗੈ ਜਾਤਿ ਨ ਪੁਛੀਐ ਕਰਣੀ ਸਬਦੁ ਹੈ ਸਾਰੁ ॥
Agai Jaath[i] na Puchheeai KaraNee Sabadh[u] Hai Saar[u]
In the afterlife, they will not ask for your caste, Look to the Shabad as Your Support...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib ji in Maaroo Kee Vaar, Ang 1094)
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ਹਮਰੀ ਜਾਤਿ ਪਾਤਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਹਮ ਵੇਚਿਓ ਸਿਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਕੇ ॥
Hamree Jaath[i] Paath[i] Gur[u] Sath[i]gur[u] Ham VaechiO Sir[iu] Gur[u] Kae
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Ramdaas Sahib Ji in Raag Soohee, Ang 731)
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ਖਸਮੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਹਿ ਤੇ ਕਮਜਾਤਿ ॥
Khasam[u] Visaarah[i] Thae Kamjaath[i]
If you forget Your Beloved - Vaheguru then you become despicable
ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਵੈ ਬਾਝੁ ਸਨਾਤਿ ॥
Naanak naavai Baajh[u] Sanaath[i]
Dhan Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji: Without the Name of Vaheguru, one is one of the worst...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Aasaa, Ang 10 - Rehras Sahib)
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ਭਗਤਿ ਰਤੇ ਸੇ ਊਤਮਾ ਜਤਿ ਪਤਿ ਸਬਦੇ ਹੋਇ ॥
Bhagath[i] Rathae Sae Oothmaa Jath[i] Path[i] Sabdhae Ho-i
Those who are immersed in Bhagti (worship), they are the Highest...Their [high] social rank and reputation comes through the Shabad...
ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਸਭ ਨੀਚ ਜਾਤਿ ਹੈ ਬਿਸਟਾ ਕਾ ਕੀੜਾ ਹੋਇ ॥
Bin[u] naavai Sabh neech Jaath[i] Hai, Bistaa Kaa Keerraa Ho-i
Without the Naam, they are all the lowest, they become like the worms/bugs inside poop
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Ji in Raag Aasaa, Ang 426)
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ਪਤਿਤ ਪਵਿਤ੍ਰ ਲੀਏ ਕਰਿ ਅਪੁਨੇ ਸਗਲ ਕਰਤ ਨਮਸਕਾਰੋ ॥
Pathith Pavithr Lee-ae Kar[i] Apunae, Sagal Karath namskaaro
The sinners are made pure through Guru Sahib’s Hands, So everyone bows down to Guru Sahib
ਬਰਨੁ ਜਾਤਿ ਕੋਊ ਪੂਛੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਬਾਛਹਿ ਚਰਨ ਰਵਾਰੋ॥
Baran[u] Jaath[i] Ko-oo Poochhai naahee Baachhah[i] Charan Ravaaro
[In the after life, no one about your caste,So ask for the Dust of the Feet [of the Saints]
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Goojaree, Ang 498)
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ਜਾਤਿ ਕਾ ਗਰਬੁ ਨ ਕਰੀਅਹੁ ਕੋਈ ॥
Jaath[i] Kaa Garab[u] na Kareeah[u] Koee
No one should be proud of their caste
ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਬਿੰਦੇ ਸੋ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣੁ ਹੋਈ ॥...
Brahm[u] Bi[n]dhae So BraahmaN[u] Hoee...
The ones who realize Brahm-Vaheguru, so they are a real Brahmin (of exalted status)
ਪੰਚ ਤਤੁ ਮਿਲਿ ਦੇਹੀ ਕਾ ਆਕਾਰਾ ॥
Pa[n]ch Thath[u] Mil[i] Dhaehee Kaa Aakaaraa
This body is just the 5 elements brought together
ਘਟਿ ਵਧਿ ਕੋ ਕਰੈ ਬੀਚਾਰਾ ॥
Ghat[i] Vadhh[i] Ko Karai Beechaaraa
How can the poor person think that they can bemore or less than one another [just because of their body]?
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji in Raag Bhairo[u], Ang 1127)
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ਗਰਭ ਵਾਸ ਮਹਿ ਕੁਲ ਨਹੀ ਜਾਤੀ ॥
Garabh Vaas Mah[i] Kul[u] nahee Jaathee
When we are in the womb, there is no family nor caste...
ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਬਿੰਦੁ ਤੇ ਸਭ ਉਤਪਾਤੀ ॥੧॥
Brahm Bi[n]dh[u] The Sabh Uthpaathee
Everything appears from the Seed of Brahm-Vaheguru
ਕਹੁ ਰੇ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਬਾਮਨ ਕਬ ਕੇ ਹੋਏ ॥
Kah[u] Rae Pa[n]dith Baaman Kab Kae Ho-ae
Do tell oh Pandit, since when have you been a Brahmin?
ਬਾਮਨ ਕਹਿ ਕਹਿ ਜਨਮੁ ਮਤ ਖੋਏ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
‘Baaman’ Kah[i] Kah[i] Janam[u] Math Kho-ae; Rahaao[u]
By calling yourself Brahmin, Brahmin [by caste]...
Don’t lose this human birth...
ਜੌ ਤੂੰ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣ ਬ੍ਰਹਮਣੀ ਜਾਇਆ ॥
Jau Thoo[n] BraahmaN BrahmaNee Jaa-iaa
If you are a Brahmin, born from a Brahmin-mother
ਤਉ ਆਨਬਾਟ ਕਾਹੇ ਨਹੀ ਆਇਆ ॥੨॥
Tho[u] Aanbaat Kaahae nahee Aa-iaa
[If you are so special then] why didn’t you come to this earth in another special way?[everyone is born from their mother]
ਤੁਮ ਕਤ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣ ਹਮ ਕਤ ਸੂਦ ॥
Thum Kath BraahmaN Ham Kath Soodh
Why are you considered a Brahmin? Why am I considered a low caste?
(Dhan Bhagat Kabeer Ji in Raag Gourree, Ang 324)
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ਹਿੰਦੂ ਤੁਰਕ ਕੋਊ ਰਾਫ਼ਜੀ ਇਮਾਮ ਸਾਫੀ...
Hi[n]dhoo Thurak Ko-oo Raafjee Imaam-Saafee
Some are Hindu, some are Turk (Muslim), Some are Shia [Raafzee] and some Sunni
(Al-Shafi Scholar/Shafi school of Sunni)
ਮਾਨਸ ਕੀ ਜਾਤ ਸਬੈ ਏਕੈ ਪਹਿਚਾਨਬੇ ॥...॥੧੫॥੮੫॥
Maanas Kee Jaath Sabai Aekai Pahichaanbo...
Recognize the Caste/Classification of all of humanity just to be One...
ਏਕੈ ਨੈਨ ਏਕੈ ਕਾਨ ਏਕੈ ਦੇਹ ਏਕੈ ਬਾਨ...
Aekai nain Aekai Kaan Aekai Dhaeh Aekai Baan
We all have the same eyes, the same ears, the same body, the same creation...
ਖਾਕ ਬਾਦ ਆਤਸ਼ ਔ ਆਬ ਕੋ ਰਲਾਉ ਹੈ ॥...॥੧੬॥੮੬॥
Khaak Baadh Aathash Au Aab Ko Ralaao[u] Hai...
[After death], [the body] becomes dust which merges into the fire and water...(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj in Akaal Usthath)
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ਘਿਅ ਭਾਂਡਾ ਨ ਵੀਚਾਰੀਐ ਭਗਤਾ ਜਾਤਿ ਸਨਾਤਿ ਨ ਕਾਈ ।।...॥੫॥
Ghia Bhaa[n]daa na Veechaareeai Bhagathaa Jaath[i] Sanaath[i] na Kaaee
Just like we don’t discuss the dish/pot which the ghee [clarified butter] is kept in but we look at the purity of the Ghee... in the same way, the Bhagat’s physical body’s caste/lineage is not brought up...(Bhai Gurdhaas Ji in Their 25th Vaar)
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ਬਰਨ ਜਾਤਿ ਕੋ ਦੂਰ ਧਰ ਐਸੋ ਸਿੱਖ ਸੁ ਲੱਖ ॥
Baran Jaath[i] Ko Dhoor Dhhar Aiso Sikh Su Lakh...
The one who stays away from caste or other classification based discrimination, So know them to be a Sikh...
ਜਾਤ ਬਰਣ ਕੀ ਕਾਨ ਤਜਿ ਮਿਲਹਿ ਖਾਲਸੇ ਸੰਗ ॥
Jaath BaraN Kee Kaan Thaj[i] Milah[i] Khaalsae Sa[n]g
They don’t care to listen to discussions about castes/classification based discrimination,They meet and join with the Khalsa!
ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕਰਿ ਮਨ ਰੂਪ ਗੂੜ੍ਹਾ ਰੰਗ ॥੧੩॥
GurBaaNee So[n] Praem Kar[i] Man Roop Goorrhaa Ra[n]g[u]
They love Gurbani, their minds are dyed in that colour...
(Gur Parthaap Sooraj, Ruth 5, Ansoo 25)
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My beloved respected Hindu brother! Our Guru Sahib have removed the Jaathee/Caste distinction from birth, see the proof:
....ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਇਕ ਵਰਨ ਕਰਾਇਆ।੨੩।
...Chaar[i] Varan Ik Varan[u] Karaa-iaa
The Four Castes were made into One...
(Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 1st Vaar)
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ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਇਕ ਵਰਨ ਕਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਅਵਰਨ ਤਮੋਲ ਗੁਲਾਲੇ ।
Chaar[i] Varan Ik Varan Kar[i], Varan Avaran Thamol Gulaalae
The Four Castes were made into One, those within the caste and those not subject to caste... became coloured with red (paan-like) colour [of Guru Sahib’s Love]
ਅਸਟ ਧਾਤੁ ਇਕੁ ਧਾਤੁ ਕਰਿ, ਵੇਦ ਕਤੇਬ ਨ ਭੇਦੁ ਵਿਚਾਲੇ ।.....।੭।
Ast Dhhaath[u] Ik[u] Dhhaath[u] Kar[i], Vaedh Kathaeb na Bhaedh[u] Vichaalae
Turning 8 metals into One, they removed the separation between Veda’s and the Abrahmic scriptures...
(Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 11th Vaar)
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ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਚਾਰਿ ਮਜਹਬਾ ਚਰਣ ਕਵਲ ਸਰਣਾਗਤਿ ਆਇਆ।
Chaar[i] Varan Chaar[i] Majhabaa CharaN Kaval SarNaagath[i] Aa-iaa
The Four Castes and the Four Mazhab come into the Sanctuary of the Lotus-Feet...
ਪਾਰਸਿ ਪਰਸਿ ਅਪਰਸ ਜਗਿ ਅਸਟਧਾਤੁ ਇਕੁ ਧਾਤੁ ਕਰਾਇਆ। ...
Paaras[i] Paras[i] Aparas Jag[i] Ast-Dhhaath[u] Ik[u] Dhhaath[u] Karaa-iaa
The Philosopher’s Stone (alchemy stone which turns iron into gold) touches the untouchable, turning the 8 metals into One...
ਹੁਕਮਿ ਰਜਾਈ ਚਲਣਾ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਗਾਡੀ ਰਾਹੁ ਚਲਾਇਆ। ...।੧੭।
Hukam[i] Rajaaee ChalaNaa Gurmukh[i] Gaadee Raah[u] Chalaa-iaa
Living according to Vaheguru Ji’s Hukam, The Gurmukh rides the vehicle on the Path [of Guru Sahib]
(Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 12th Vaar)
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ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਇਕ ਵਰਨ ਹੋਇ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਵੜੀਅਨਿ ਸਨਮੁਖ ਗੋਤੇ ।...
Chaar[i] Varan Ik Varan Ho-i Gursikh Varreean[i] Sanmukh Gothae
Four Castes become One, the GurSikhs enter and face their lineage/clan...
ਸਾਧ ਸੈਗਤਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਦਾਦੇ ਪੋਤੇ ।੫।
Saadhh Sa[n]gath[i] Mil[i] Dhaadhae Pothae
... - the Saadhh-Sangath, and meet their grandparents and grandchildren...
(Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 29th Vaar)
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ਗੰਗ ਬਨਾਰਸ ਹਿੰਦੂਆਂ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਣਾਂ ਮਕਾ ਕਾਬਾ ।
Ga[n]g Banaaras Hi[n]dhooaa[n] MusalmaaNaa[n] Makaa Kaabaa
The Hindus go to Ganga at Banaras/Varanasi, The Muslims go to Kaabah at Mecca...
ਘਰਿ ਘਰਿ ਬਾਬਾ ਗਾਵੀਐ ਵਜਨਿ ਤਾਲ ਮ੍ਰਿਦੰਗ ਰਬਾਬਾ । ...
Ghar[i] Ghar[i] Baabaa Gaaveeai Vajan[i] Thaal Mridha[n]g Rabaabaa
In each house, Baba Guru Nanak Ji’s [Shabad] is heard and the sound of instruments like Mridang, Rabab...
ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨ ਇਕ ਵਰਨ ਹੋਇ ਸਾਧਿ ਸੰਗਤ ਮਿਲਿ ਹੋਇ ਤਰਾਬਾ ।
Chaar[i] Varan Ik Varan Ho-i, Saadhh Sa[n]gath[i] Mil[i] Ho-i Tharaabaa
The Four Castes were made into One, meeting the Saadh Sangath - they become liberated...
ਚੰਦਨੁ ਵਾਸੁ ਵਣਾਸਪਤਿ ਅਵਲਿ ਦੋਮ ਨ ਸੇਮ ਖਰਾਬਾ ...।੪।
Cha[n]dhan[u] Vaas[u] VaNaas-path[i] Aval[i] Dhom na Saem Kharaabaa
[Like] the Fragrance/Pleasant Smell of Sandalwood which spreads onto other plants whether they are useful, adored, or undesired...(Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 24th Vaar)
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I will tell you a historic account about this very topic as well.During the time of Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji Maharaj, there were ignorant people who complained to Emperor Akbar that the Sikhs did not implement a hierarchy based on caste based categorization (as per traditional hindu’s). This is described in Gur[u] Prathaap Sooraj Prakaash’s 1st Raas and 43rd Ansoo:
ਪੰਥ ਨਵੀਨ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ਨ ਕਰਯੋ । ਭੇਦ ਬਰਨ ਜਾਤੀ ਪਰਹਯੋ ॥੨੮॥
Pa[n]th naveen Prakaashn Karyo; Bhaedh Baran Jaathee Par-haryo
A new path [Sikhi] was created which stayed away from castes and other classification based differences...
ਚਤੁਰ ਬਰਨ ਇਕ ਦੇਗ਼ ਅਹਾਰਾ । ਇਕ ਸਮ ਸੇਵਹਿ ਧਰਿ ਉਰ ਪਯਾਰਾ ।
Chathur Baran Ik Dhaegh Ahaaraa; Ik Sam Saevah[in] Dhhar[i] Ur Pyaaraa
All four Castes were made to consume from one cauldron,They all serve Vaheguru and have love for one another...
ਸੁਨਿ ਖੱਤ੍ਰੀ ਦ੍ਰਿਜ ਗਨ ਅੱਗ੍ਯਾਨੀ। ਪਰਮ ਅਭਗਤ ਜਾਤਿ ਅਭਿਮਾਨੀ । ...
Sun[i] Khathree Dhrij Gan Agyaanee; Param A-Bhagath Jaath[i] Abhimaanee
Hearing this, the ignorant Kshatriya (king/warriors) and Brahmins,They are the supreme ones without a worship mindset as they are proud of their castes...
ਇਕ ਦਿਨ ਮਿਲਿ ਸਭਿ ਮਸਲਤ ਕਰੀ। ਇਹ ਤੋ ਰੀਤਿ ਬੁਰੀ ਜਗ ਪਰੀ।
Ik Dhin Mil[i] Sabh[i] Maslath Karee; Ih Tho Reeth[i] Buree Jag Paree
One day they all met to hold council, this is a bad trend/tradition (referring to the Path of Sikhi) which has been brought to the world...
ਅਬਿ ਦ੍ਵਿਜ ਕੋ ਨਹਿਂ ਮਾਨਹਿ ਕੋਇ। ਖੱਤ੍ਰੀ ਧਰਮ ਨਸ਼ਟ ਸਭਿ ਹੋਇ ॥੩੧॥
Ab[i] Dhvij Ko nah[in] Maanah[i] Ko-i; Khath-ree Dhharam nasht Sabh[i] Ho-i
Now, no one will follow the Dwij (Kshathree and Brahmin leadership and high status),The Traditions/Ways of the Kshathree are all destroyed...
ਚਤੁਰ ਬਰਨ ਕੋ ਇਕ ਮਤ ਕਰਯੋ । ਭ੍ਰਿਸ਼ਟ ਹੋਇ ਜਗ ਧਰਮ ਪ੍ਰਹਰਯੋ।
Chathur Baran Ko Ik Math Karyo; Bhrisht Ho-i Jag Dhharam Praharyo
All four castes are turned into one way of thinking, these laws of the world have been violated...
ਇਕ ਥਲ ਭੋਜਨ ਸਭਿ ਕੋ ਖਈ । ਸੰਕਰਿ ਬਰਨ ਪ੍ਰਜਾ ਅਬਿ ਭਈ ॥੩੨॥
Ik Thhal Bhojan Sabh[i] Ko Kha-aee; Sa[n]kar[i] Baran Prajaa Ab[i] Prajaa Ab[i] Bha-aee
They all eat at one level/place, now the castes have been mixed within the subjects...
ਦੇਵ ਪਿਤਰ ਕੀ ਮਨਤਾ ਛੋਰੀ। ਸਭਿ ਮਿਰਯਾਦ ਜਗਤ ਕੀ ਤੋਰੀ।...
Dhaev Pithar Kee Manthaa Chhoree; Sabh[i] Miryaadh Jagath Kee Thoree
They have let go of ancestor and deity worship...They have broken all of the rules of the world...
ਲਵਪੁਰਿ ਗਏ ਫਿਰਾਂਦੀ ਸਾਰੇ।ਢਿਗ ਅਕਬਰ ਕੇ, ਜਾਇ ਪੁਕਾਰੇ ॥੩੪॥...
Lavpur[i] Ga-ae Phiraa[n]dhee Saarae; Dtig Akbar Kae, Jaa-i Pukaarae
They all went to Lavpur (Lahore), they went to Akbar’s [Royal Court] and said:
ਗੋਇੰਦਵਾਲ ਅਮਰ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੋਵਾ। ਭੇਦ ਬਰਨ ਚਾਰਹੁ ਕਾ ਖੋਵਾ ॥੩੫॥
Goi[n]dvaal Amar Gur[u] Hovaa; Bhaedh Baran Chaarah[un] Kaa Khovaa
There is a Guru in Goindwal named ‘Amar’ who has removed the differences between all four castes...
ਰਾਮ ਗਾਇਤ੍ਰੀ ਮੰਤ੍ਰ ਨ ਜਪੈ। ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਕੀ ਥਾਪਨ ਥਪੈ ।
Raam Gaa-i-three Ma[n]thr na Japai; Vaahiguroo Kee Thhaapan Thhapai
He doesn’t do recitation of the Gayatri Mantra, [the Sikh Guru’s] have established the practice of Vaheguru...
ਸ਼ਰੁਤਿ ਸਿੰਮ੍ਰਿਤਿ ਕੇ ਰਾਹੁ। ਮਨ ਕੋ ਮਤਿ ਕਰਿ ਭਏ ਨਿਰਾਲੇ।
Shruth[i] Si[n]mrith[i] Kae Raah[u] na Chaaae; Man Ko Math[i] Kar[i] Bha-ae niraalae
They don’t walk on the path of the Veda’s nor the Simrithee’s, they follow their own unique way of thinking...
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The first sanskar/ceremony of the Dhwijaa[n] (the upper castes) is the Janeyoo, Guru Sahib say the following about that here:
ਦਇਆ ਕਪਾਹ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਸੂਤੁ ਜਤੁ ਗੈਢੀ ਸਤੁ ਵਟੁ॥
Dha-iaa Kapaah, Sa[n]thokh Sooth[u], Jath[u] Ga[n]dtee Sath[u] Vat[u]
Make Compassion the cotton, make Contentment the string, using the knot of celibacy/self-control, and truth/honesty the twist in the string...
ਏਹੁ ਜਨੇਊ ਜੀਅ ਕਾ ਹਈ ਤ ਪਾਡੇ ਘਤੁ॥
Aeh[u] Janaeoo Jeea Kaa Ha-aee Tha Paadae Ghath[u]
This is the proper Janeyoo for the living being, if you have it then place it...
ਚਉਕੜਿ ਮੁਲਿ ਅਣਾਇਆ ਬਹਿ ਚਉਕੈ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
Choukarr[i] Mul[i] ANaa-iaa Bah[i] Choukai Paa-iaa
You buy the Janeyoo for a few shells and place it on in your Chauka (made up enclosure)
ਸਿਖਾ ਕੰਨਿ ਚੜਾਈਆ ਗੁਰੁ ਬ੍ਰਾਹਮਣ ਥਿਆ॥
Sikhaa Ka[n]n[i] Charraa-iaa Gur[u] BraahmaN Thhiaa
Whispering things into the students’ ears then people consider that person a guru &/or brahmin...
ਓਹੁ ਮੁਆ ਓਹੁ ਝੜਿ ਪਇਆ ਵੇਤਗਾ ਗਇਆ॥
Oh[u] Muaa Oh[u] Jharr[i] Pa-iaa Vae-thagaa Ga-iaa
He will die, the janeyoo falls off, and he leaves this world without his janeyoo string
ਵੇਤਗਾ ਆਪੇ ਵਤੇ॥ ਵਟਿ ਧਾਗੇ ਅਵਰਾ ਘਤੇ॥
Vae-thagaa Aapae Vathai; Vat[i] Dhhaagae Avaraa Ghathai;
Going to the afterlife without the string, twisting the strings... he puts in on others...
ਲੈ ਭਾੜਿ ਕਰੇ ਵੀਆਹੁ॥ ਕਢਿ ਕਾਗਲਾਂ ਦਸੇ ਰਾਹੁ॥
Lai Bhaarr[i] Karae Veeaah[u]; Kadt[i] Kaagal[u] Dhasae Raah[u]
Taking payment for carrying out marriages,reading the horoscopes... telling them their way in life...
ਸੁਣਿ ਵੇਖਹੁ ਲੋਕਾ ਏਹੁ ਵਿਡਾਣ॥
SuN[i] Vaekhah[u] Lokaa Aeh[u] VidaaN[u]
Hearing and seeing this, people are in wonder
ਮਨਿ ਅੰਧਾ, ਨਾਉ ਸੁਜਾਣੁ॥
Man[i] A[n]dhhaa, naa-o[u] SujaaN[u]
He is blind within his mind but he is known as wise(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Aasaa Kee Vaar)
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Our Tenth Guru Sahib had taught the hill kings to become Amritdhari Singhs:
ਝੂਠੇ ਜੰਞੂ ਜਤਨ ਥਿਆਗੋ ।
Jhoottae Ja[n]nyoo Jathan Thiaago
False are the Janeyoo’s, let go of these attempts...
ਖੜਗ ਧਾਰ ਅਸਿਧੁਜ ਪਗ ਲਾਗੋ ।...॥੧੦੨॥
Kharrag Dhhaar Asidhhuj Pag Laago
Wear a Sword and fall at the Feet of the One who carries the Sword on top of his battle standards/flags... [Vaheguru wields their Shakti/Power/Weapons]
... ਬਿਖਯਾ ਕਿਰਿਆ ਭੱਦਣ ਤਯਾਗੋ।
Bikhyaa Kiriaa Bhadh-N Thyaago
Let go of the poisonous rituals and do not shave your head
ਜਟਾਜੂਟ ਰਹਿਬੇ ਅਨੁਰਾਗੋ ।...॥੧੦੮॥
Jataa-joot Rahibo Anuraago
Stay lovingly with your hair uncut
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The hill kings responded with the following:
ਇਹ ਤੋ ਰਹਿਤ ਕਠਿਨ, ਨਹਿੰ ਹੋਈ।
Ih Tho Rahith Kattin, nah[in] Hoee
This Rehat is too hard, we can’t maintain it...
ਚਾਰ ਵਰਣ ਸੋਂ ਕਰਹਿੰ ਰਸੋਈ ॥੧੨੯॥...
Chaar VaraN So[n] Karah[in] Rasoee
The four different castes share a kitchen
ਬੇਦ ਲੋਕ ਮਤ ਸਰਬ ਤਿਆਗੀ।
Baedh Lok Math Sarab Thiaagee
They have let go of the thinking of the Vedic people
ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਸਿਧੁਜ ਕੇ ਹ੍ਵੈ ਅਨੁਰਾਗੀ ॥੧੩੨॥...
Sree Asidhhuj Kae Hwai[n] Anuraagee
They are lovers of Akaal Purakh-Vaheguru (The One who has the battle standard with sword on top)
ਦ੍ਵਿਜ ਖਤੱਰੀ ਪੂਤਾਨ ਕੇ ਜੰਞੂ ਧਰਮ ਤੁਰਾਇ ।
Dhwij Khathree Poothaan Kae Ja[n]nyoo Dhharam Thuraa-i
They have broken the children of upper castes from the practice of Janeyoo
ਲੈ ਭੋਜਨ ਇਕ ਠਾਨ ਕੀਓ ਬੂਡੀ ਬਾਤ ਬਨਾਇ ॥੧੩੯।...
Lai Bhojan Ik Ttaa[n] Kee-O Boodee Baath Banaa-i
They take their food and eat at one level/place,This is a big problematic issue
ਪੂਜਾ ਮੰਤ੍ਰ ਕ੍ਰਿਯਾ ਸੁਭ ਕਰਮਾ।
Poojaa Ma[n]thr Kreeyaa Subh Karmaa
Worship, Mantra’s, rituals, all good tasks...
ਇਹ ਹਮ ਤੇ ਛੂਟਤ ਨਹਿ ਧਰਮਾ।
Ih Ham Thae Chhootath nah[i] Dhharamaa
We cannot let go of these ways...
ਪਿਤ੍ਰਿਦੰਡ ਦੇਵਨ ਕੇ ਕਾਮਾ।
Pithr[i]-Dha[n]d Dhaevan Kae Kaamaa
If we do then our ancestors will curse/punish us...
ਕਤ ਛੂਟਤ ਹਮ ਸੇ ਅਭਿਰਾਮਾ ? ॥੧੫੦॥
Kath Chhootah Ham Sae Abhiraamaa
How can we let go of these things we are supposed to do for all of our lives?
(Gur[u]-Bilaas Patshahi 10vee by Sukha Singh, 11th Adhiyaye)
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“ਗੁਰੂ ਕਾ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੰਞੂ ਟਿੱਕੇ ਦੀ ਕਾਣ ਨਾ ਕਰੇ।”
Guroo Kaa Si[n]gh Ja[n]nyoo Tik-ae Dhee KaaN naa Karae
The Guru’s Singh should not follow/listen to the Janeyoo or Tika.(Rahithnaamaa Bhai Chaupaa Singh)
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“ਜਨੇਊ ਪਾਇਕੇ ਵਿਵਾਹ ਸ਼੍ਰਾਧ ਪਿੰਡ ਆਦਿਕ ਨਾ ਕਰੇ। ਸਭ ਜੁਗਤ ਗੁਰੂ ਕੀ ਮਰਯਾਦਾ ਅਰਦਾਸ ਸੇ ਕਰੇ ।”
Janaeoo Paa-ikae Vivaah Shraadhh Pi[n]d Aadhik naa Karae; Sabh Jugath Guroo Kee Maryaadhaa Ardhaas Sae Karae
Don’t wear a Janeyoo, nor do Hindu Vivaah’s, ancestor worship, etc. All actions/ceremonies should be connected to Guru Ji’s Maryada and ardaas should be carried out...
(Rahithnaamaa Bhai Dhayaa Singh)
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Hindu: In Bhai Baalaa Ji’s Janam Saakhee, it says the following: Guru Nanak Sahib went to Laalo the Carpenter (Tharkhaan)’s home, and Bhai Laalo Ji saw a Janeo around their neck and said:
‘Maharaj! I will make a chaunkaa (an uncontaminated space reserved for upper castes). Please make your food by yourselves. I am a Shoodhra and so, I cannot make food for you.’ After hearing this, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji shared a Bachan: ‘Bhai Laalo! The entire earth is a chaunkaa, prepare the food and bring it, don’t be deluded’This account proves that Guru Sahib wore a Janaeoo around their neck.
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Sikh: Beloved brother! First of all, Guru Sahib wearing a Janaeoo is against their own Gurbani. Think about it, if we accept what you said that Guru Sahib wore a Janeyoo then it would make Guru Sahib hypocritical. If we continue then it also still poses a question to the caste based categorization system because it is really important that a chaunkaa is used and eating the food from a Shudhraa, is it truly the rule? If Guru Nanak Dev ji wore a Janeyoo and was a ‘practicing Hindu’ then according to Bhai Gurdaas Ji’s 1st Vaar then Guru Sahib was also a Muslim:
ਬਾਬਾ ਫਿਰਿ ਮੱਕੇ ਗਇਆ ਨੀਲ ਬਸਤ੍ਰ ਧਾਰੇ ਬਨਵਾਰੀ ।
Baabaa Phir[i] Makk-ae Ga-iaa neel Basthr Dhhaarae Banvaaree
Baba [Guru Nanak Dev Ji] went to Mecca, - the Gardener of the World was wearing blue robes
ਆਸਾ ਹਥਿ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਕਛਿ ਕੂਜਾ ਬਾਂਗ ਮੁਸਲਾ ਧਾਰੀ ।...॥੩੨॥
Aasaa Hathh[i] Kithaab Kachh[i] Koojaa Baa[n]g Musalaa Dhhaaaree
They had a staff in their hand as well as their (Gurbani) pothi in their arms, [amidst the Muslims] they had a water jug, call to prayer, and prayer mats...
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Hindu: It is proven from this Shabad from Guru Granth Sahib that Guru Nanak Sahib wore a Janaeoo:
ਖਲੜੀ ਖਪਰੀ ਲਕੜੀ ਚਮੜੀ ਸਿਖਾ ਸੂਤੁ ਧੋਤੀ ਕੀਨੀ ॥
Khalarree Khaparee Lakarree Chamrree Sikhaa Sooth[u] Dhhothee Keen[h]ee
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Raag Aasaa, Ang 358)
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Sikh: My Beloved Friend! In this shabad, Janaeoo is not being approved of. Actually, the Janaeoo is condemned. Carefully read the entire Shabad:
ਦੇਵਤਿਆ ਦਰਸਨ ਕੈ ਤਾਈ ਦੂਖ ਭੂਖ ਤੀਰਥ ਕੀਏ ॥
Dhaevthiaa Dharsan Kai Thaaee Dhhookh Bhookh Theerathh Keeae
In order to have darshan of the deities, people go to pilgrimage places while facing suffering & hunger
ਜੋਗੀ ਜਤੀ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਮਹਿ ਰਹਤੇ ਕਰਿ ਕਰਿ ਭਗਵੇ ਭੇਖ ਭਏ ॥੧॥
Jogee Jathee Jugath[i] Mah[i] Rahathae Kar[i] Kar[i] Bhagvae Bhaekh Bha-ae
Yogi’s, Celibates, stay within their own spiritual strategies, they wear Bhagwa coloured robes (red ochre - representing fire or the rising sun)
ਤਉ ਕਾਰਣਿ ਸਾਹਿਬਾ ਰੰਗ ਰਤੇ ॥
Tho[u] KaaraN[i] Saahibaa Ra[n]g Rath-aeIn order to receive reward from You - Oh Master - they are dyed in the colour of Divine Love
ਤੇਰੇ ਨਾਮ ਅਨੇਕਾ ਰੂਪ ਅਨੰਤਾ ਕਰਣੁ ਨ ਜਾਹੀ ਤੇਰੇ ਗੁਣ ਕੇਤੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
Thaerae naam Anaekaa Roop Ana[n]thaa, KahaN[u] na Jaahee Thaerae GuN Kaethae; Rahaao[u]
You - Vaheguru Ji - have endless names and many forms, Your Many Qualities cannot be described...
ਦਰ ਘਰ ਮਹਲਾ ਹਸਤੀ ਘੋੜੇ ਛੋਡਿ ਵਿਲਾਇਤਿ ਦੇਸ ਗਏ ॥
Dhar Ghar Mahalaa Hasthee Ghorrae Chhod[i] Vilaa-ith[i] Dhaes Ga-ae
Leaving their homes, mansions, elephants, horses... they went to foreign lands
ਪੀਰ ਪੇਕਾਂਬਰ ਸਾਲਿਕ ਸਾਦਿਕ ਛੋਡੀ ਦਨੀਆ ਥਾਇ ਪਏ ॥੨॥
Peer Paekaa[m]bar Saalik Saadhik Chhodee Dhuneeaa Thhaa-i Pa-ae
The Spiritual Leaders/Muslim Saints, Prophets, spiritual seekers renounced worldliness and so, attained Liberation/Salvation
ਸਾਦ ਸਹਜ ਸੁਖ ਰਸ ਕਸ ਤਜੀਅਲੇ ਕਾਪੜ ਛੋਡੇ ਚਮੜ ਲੀਏ ।।
Saadh Sahaj Sukh Ras Kas Thajeealae Kaaparr Chhodae Chamarr Lee-ae
Letting go of tastes, peace, comfort, pleasures... they let go of clothes and took on animal skins...
ਦੁਖੀਏ ਦਰਦਵੰਦ ਦਰਿ ਤੇਰੈ ਨਾਮਿ ਰਤੇ ਦਰਵੇਸ ਭਏ ॥੩॥
Dhukhee-ae Dhardh-Va[n]dh Dhar[i] Thaerai naam[i] Rathae Dharvaes Bha-ae
The Sufferers are suffering then come to your Door to beg and become spiritually blissful while chanting Your Name
ਖਲੜੀ ਖਪਰੀ ਲਕੜੀ ਚਮੜੀ ਸਿਖਾ ਸੂਤੁ ਧੋਤੀ ਕੀਨੀ ॥
Khalree Khapree Lakarree Chamree Sikhaa Sooth[u] Dhhothee Keenhee
Some wear animal skins, carry a water jug, fire wood, have shikha (tuft kept and rest of hair bald), janeyoo, and wear loincloths...
ਤੂੰ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਹਉ ਸਾਂਗੀ ਤੇਰਾ, ਪ੍ਰਣਵੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਜਾਤਿ ਕੈਸੀ ॥੪॥੧॥੩੩॥
Thoo[n] Saahib[u] Ho[u] Saa[n]gee Thaeraa, PraNvai naanak[u] Jaath[i] Kaisee
You are the master and I am Your Puppet, Prays Guru Sahib: how can there be any classifications of humans? [ie they are all subject to Vaheguru Ji’s Hukam]
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji Maharaj in Raag Aasaa, Ang 358)
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In this shabad, it refers to all of the following as costumes: wearing Bhagvaa, becoming a Digamber [Sadhu], sitting upon a deer skin and doing jaap, begging while holding a begging bowl, becoming Sanyasee, becoming bald, wearing a Janaeoo and Dhothee/loin cloth. And at the end, the teaching that comes out of this is: the human doesn’t have any classifications (as in a better human type or one that is not good). It is only imagined out of spiritual ignorance.
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Hindu: Look at this example which proved Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji wore a Janeoo:
ਤਿਲਕ ਜੰਞੂ ਰਾਖਾ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਤਾਕਾ ॥
Thilak Ja[n]nyoo Raakhaa, Prabh[u] Thaakaa
]Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji] protected the Tilak and the Janeyoo
ਕੀਨੋ ਬਡੋ ਕਲੂ ਮਹਿ ਸਾਕਾ ॥੧੩॥
Keeno Bado Kaloo Mah[i] Saakaa
They carried out such a great Shaheedi
in this time of Kalyug [age of darkness]
(Bachithar Naatak, 5th Adhiyaye)
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Sikh: Oh my Hindu brother, you are educated in grammar! The meaning of this is that Guru Sahib protected the Kashmiri Brahmins who came into Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s sanctuary seeking help to protect them from religious persecution. The one who protected them and their ability to practice their faith (which includes adorning the Thilak and Janaeoo.
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The practice of avoiding the Janaeoo did not start after the Khalsa was formed but even Sehajdhaaree Sikhs before them did not see any importance in the Janaeoo. They did not see it as more than just a normal piece of string. This can be confirmed through the following account from Dhabisthaan Mazaahab:There was someone who saw himself as Sikh - who was steadfast in his practice. He came with me from Kabul to Punjab. Along the way, the strap which held my trunk had broke. He had taken off his Janaeoo and used it to fasten it back. I said what did you do? He replied:‘Is having a Janaeoo only ceremonious? If my friend needs some string and I don’t use the string I have then what’s the point?’
(2nd Thaaleem, Nazar 24)
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You worship and donate to the Brahmin’s who are proud of their castes but our Guru Sahib have said that Gursikhs are worth donating and rewarding to, as per:
ਮਾਤਾ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਕਰੇ ਪੁਤੁ ਖਾਇ ॥
Maathaa Preeth[i] Karae Puth[u] Khaa-i
Through the Mother’s love, the child is fed...
ਮੀਨੇ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਭਈ ਜਲਿ ਨਾਇ ॥
Meenae Preeth[i] Bha-aee Jal[i] naa-i
The love of the fish is water so it bathes in it always...
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਮੁਖਿ ਪਾਇ ॥
Sath[i]Gur Preeth[i] GurSikh Mukh[i] Paa-i
Through Guru Sahib’s Love, the Gursikh receives Amrit in Their Mouth
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Ramdaas Sahib Ji in Raag Gourree, Ang 164)
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ਗੁਰਸਿਖਾਂ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਵਰਤੈ
Gursikhaa[n] A[n]dhar[i] Sathiguroo Varthai
Guru Sahib works through Their GurSikhs...
ਜੋ ਸਿਖਾਂ ਨੋ ਲੋਚੈ ਸੇ ਗੁਰ ਖੁਸੀ ਆਵੇ ॥
Jo Sikhaa[n] no Lochai So Gur Khusee Aavai
Those who yearn to have Sangat of Sikhs, So do they attain Guru Sahib’s Happiness...(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Ramdaas Sahib Ji in Gourree Kee Vaar)
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ਸੇਵ ਕਰੀ ਇਨ ਹੀ ਕੀ ਭਾਵਤ॥
Saev Karee In Hee Kee Bhaavath
Do Seva of/Serve the Khalsa...
ਅਉਰ ਕੀ ਸੇਵ ਸੁਹਾਤ ਨ ਜੀ ਕੋ॥
Aour Kee Saev Suhaath na Jee Ko
Serving others does not make me pleased...
ਦਾਨ ਦਯੋ ਇਨ ਹੀ ਕੋ ਭਲੋ॥
Dhaan Dhayo In Hee Ko BhaloDonating to them is best...
ਅਰੁ ਆਨ ਕੋ ਦਾਨ ਨ ਲਾਗਤ ਨੀਕੋ॥
Ar[u] Aan Ko Dhaan na Laagath neeko
Donating to others does not seem wise...
ਆਗੈ ਫਲੈ ਇਨ ਹੀ ਕੋ ਦਯੋ॥
Aagai Phalai In Hee Ko DhayoGiving to them will result in reward in the future...
ਜਗ ਮੈ ਜਸੁ ਅਉਰ ਦਯੋ ਸਭ ਫੀਕੋ ॥
Jag Mai Jas[u] Aour Dhayo Sabh Pheeko
Praising anyone else in this world is useless...
ਮੋ ਗ੍ਰਹਿ ਮੈ ਤਨ ਤੇ ਮਨ ਤੇ
Mo Girh[i] Mai Than Thae Man Thae
Within my house [Gurughar], [Guru Sahib’s] body and mind,...
ਸਿਰ ਲਉ ਧਨ ਹੈ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਇਨਹੀ ਕੋ ॥੩॥
Sir Lo[u] Dhhan Hai Sabh Hee Inhee Ko
[Guru Sahib’s] Head, Wealth ... all belong to the Khalsa...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji in Khalsa Mehima Savaiye)
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Hindu: Guru Sahib wrote these in praise of Brahmins and commanded the Sikhs to donate to Brahmins. How do you interpret this as praise and donation to Sikhs?
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Sikh: My beloved Hindu brother! Guru Sahib refer to Brahmins as well and say:
ਜੋ ਕਿਛੁ ਲੇਖ ਲਿਖਿਓ ਬਿਧਨਾ
Jo Kichh Laekh LikhiO Bidhhnaa
All that has been written will indeed happen in the future...
ਸੋਈ ਪਾਯਤੁ ਮਿਸ੍ਰ ਜੂ ਸ਼ੋਕ ਨਿਵਾਰੋ ॥ ...।੧॥
Soee Paayath Misar Joo Shok nivaaro
So let go of the sadness that you - Oh Brahmin [Misar Ju] are feeling [ie better to embrace what will happen]
(“”)
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In this conversation, Guru Sahib are the highest being. Misr Jee refers to the other people who they are talking to. The Khalsa is a 3rd party in this [TN: Guru Sahib are speaking to the Brahmins about Their Sikhs]. ‘In Hoo[n]’ does not refer to Brahmins. Let go of this grammar-related discussion as we can read the last doharaa to understand that these Savaiyae are about the Khalsa:
ਚਟੁਪਟਾਇ ਚਿਤ ਮੈ ਜਰਿਓ ਤ੍ਰਿਣ ਜਿਉਂ ਕੁੱਧਤ ਹੋਇ ॥
Chat[u]ptaa-i Chith Mai Jari-O ThriN Jio[un] Krudhhath Ho-i
His mind was burning anxiously, just like how straw reacts to being burnt...
ਖੋਜ ਰੋਜ ਕੇ ਹੇਤ ਲਗ ਦਯੋ ਮਿਸ੍ਰਜੂ ਰੋਇ ॥੪॥
Khoj Roj Kae Haeth Lag Dhayo Misrjoo Ro-i
The Brahmin [Misar Ji] reflected upon what this all meant and began to cry...(“”)
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Meaning Guru Sahib has told us this new path where Brahmins should not be donated to and Gursikhs should be referred to as the absolute worthy. Hearing this, the Misr (Brahmin) became frightened and started crying. Think about it yourself, if Guru Sahib spoke in favour of the Brahmin then would the Brahmin begin crying or laughing? And look! What I am saying is also confirmed by Bhai Mani Singh - a Sikh who was present in Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Darbar:The Brahmins were arrogant of reciting the Veda’s, their birth, and ritualistic. The Tenth King (Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji) gave greatness and the Guruship to the Khalsa and the Brahmins began to cry. (Bhagat Rathnaavalee
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Hindu: You speak about the Brahmins that way but in Sri Sukhmani Sahib, it is praised, as per:
ਸੋ ਪੰਡਿਤੁ ਜੋ ਮਨੁ ਪਰਬੋਧੈ ॥
So Pa[n]dith[u] Jo Man[u] Parbodhhai
They are a true pandit who understands their own mind
ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਆਤਮ ਮਹਿ ਸੋਧੈ ॥...
Raam naam[u] Aatham Mah[i] Sodhhai
They clean/instruct theirselves with the Name of Vaheguru
ਬੇਦ ਪੁਰਾਨ ਸਿਮ੍ਰਿਤਿ ਬੂਝੈ ਮੂਲ ॥
Baedh Puraan Simrith[i] Boojhai Mool[u]
They understand the Spiritual essence behind the Veda’s, Purana’s
ਸੂਖਮ ਮਹਿ ਜਾਨੈ ਅਸਥੂਲੁ ॥
Sookham Mah[i] Jaanai Asthhool[u]
They see the subtle/spiritual world within the physical/material
ਵਰਨਾ ਕਉ ਦੇ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ॥
Chah[u] Varnaa Ko[u] Dhae Updhaes[u]
They give teachings to all 4 Caste groups...
ਨਾਨਕ ਉਸੁ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਕਉ ਸਦਾ ਅਦੇਸੁ ॥੪॥
Naanak Us[u] Pa[n]dith Ko[u] Sadhaa Adhaes[u]
Guru Sahib: That type of Pandit will always receive reverence.
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji Maharaj, Ang 274)
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Sikh: Oh Beloved Hindu! Guru Sahib are not prioritizing caste categorization nor praising the Brahmin. Guru Sahib are teaching about who is the real Pandith is and not the ones who are stuck in the ritualistic practices including the deception of Janaeoo and Tikkaa.
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Look! Look at the supreme teaching that the Pandith is the one who teaches themselves first and reflects on the Name of the (Raam = Ramiya Hoya) All-pervading Vaheguru within the mind and understands the reality of the Veda’s, Puraan, Simrithee’s among other scriptures. In addition to this, the illusory nature of the world is accepted to be coming from Vaheguru (not like some other belief system’s teachings that believe that besides Vaheguru, there are other beings that are also without a beginning and so, against the True non-duality of Vaheguru). Continuing: knowing all 4 caste groups as children of One Father which makes us all brothers/sisters and love each other accordingly (In contrast, the existing Brahmins did not teach shudhra’s and especially not about the One Metaphysical Reality: Vaheguru). Sri Guru Sahib teach us the Pandit is whoever has these qualities and worthy of praise.
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Those people who are arrogant of their caste distinctions, Guru Sahib say the following about them:
ਲੋਭੀ ਅਨਕਉ ਸੇਵਦੇ ਪੜਿ ਵੇਦਾ ਕਰੈ ਪੂਕਾਰ ॥
Lobhee Anko[u] Saevdhae Parr[i] Vaedhaa Karai Pookaar
The greedy serve others instead of Vaheguru,
They read the Veda’s and claim things...
ਬਿਖਿਆ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਪਚਿ ਮੁਏ ਨਾ ਉਰਵਾਰੁ ਨਾ ਪਾਰੁ ॥੩॥
Bikhiaa A[n]dhar[i] Pach[i] Muae naa Urvaar[u] naa Paar[u]
They burn in their own poisonous trap, they do not get peace in this life nor the afterlife...
ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹਿ ਵਿਸਾਰਿਆ ਜਗਤ ਪਿਤਾ ਪ੍ਰਤਿਪਾਲਿ ॥
Maa-iaa Moh[i] Visaariaa Jagath Pithaa Prath[i]paal[i]
In the attachment to this illusory world, they forget the Father and Caretaker of this world...
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji in Siree Raag, Ang 30)
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ਮਨਮੁਖ ਪੜਹਿ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਕਹਾਵਹਿ ॥
Manmukh Parrah[i] Pa[n]dith Kahaavah[i]
The Manmukhs call them Pandits who recite the Veda’s...
ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਮਹਾ ਦੁਖੁ ਪਾਵਹਿ ॥
Dhoojai Bhaa-i Mahaa Dhukh[u] Paavah[i]
They are lost in the love of duality and so attain great pain...
ਵੇਦੁ ਪੜਹਿ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਨਹੀ ਆਇਆ ॥
Vaedh[u] Parrah[i] Har[i] Ras[u] nahee Aa-iaa
They read the Veda’s and don’t receive the Bliss of Vaheguru...
ਵਾਦੁ ਵਖਾਣਹਿ ਮੋਹੇ ਮਾਇਆ ॥
Vaadh[u] VakhaaNah[i] Mohae Maa-iaa
They get into divisiveness and so, lost in the attachment of this world’s illusions..
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji in Raag Maajh, Ang 128)-ਪੰਡਿਤ ਭੂਲੇ ਦੂਜੇ ਲਾਗੇ ਮਾਇਆ ਕੈ ਵਾਪਾਰਿ ॥
Pa[n]dith Bhoolae Dhoojae Laagae Maa-iaa Kai Vaapaar[i]
The Pandits are lost in the love of duality, they are sellers of Maya (the illusion)
ਅੰਤਰਿ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਭੁਖ ਹੈ, ਮੂਰਖ ਭੁਖਿਆ ਮੁਏ ਗਵਾਰ ॥
A[n]thar[i] Thrisnaa Bhukh Hai, Moorakh Bhukhiaa Muae Gavaar
They have the hunger for desires within, the ignorant ones will die hungry and unenlightened (lit. uneducated/uncultured/simple)
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Amardaas Sahib Ji in Soratt[i] Kee Vaar, Ang 647)
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ਪੰਡਿਤ ਵਾਚਹਿ ਪੋਥੀਆ ਨਾ ਬੂਝਹਿ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥
Pa[n]dith Vaachah[i] Pothheeaa naa Boojhah[i] Veechaar[u]
The Pandit speaks about their religious books, they don’t understand the essence behind it all...
ਅਨਕਊ ਮਤੀ ਦੇ ਚਲਹਿ ਮਾਇਆ ਕਾ ਵਾਪਾਰੁ ॥
Anko[u] Mathee Dhae Chalah[i] Maa-iaa Kaa Vaapaar[u]
They teach others and depart themselves, they just trade in Maya (worldliness)
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji in Siree Raag, Ang 56)
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ਪੰਡਿਤੁ ਆਖਾਏ ਬਹੁਤੀ ਰਾਹੀ ਕੋਰੜ ਮੋਠ ਜਿਨੇਹਾ॥
Pa[n]dith Aakhaa-ae Bahuthee Raahee Korarr Mott Jinaehaa
They are called Pandit but [their minds] are scattered in many different paths,They are like uncooked, hard lentils...
ਅੰਦਰਿ ਮੋਹੁ ਨਿਤ ਭਰਮਿ ਵਿਆਪਿਆ ਤਿਸਟਸਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਦੇਹਾ॥
A[n]dhar[i] Moh[u] nith Bharam[i] Viaapiaa Thistas[i] naahee Dhaehaa
Within them is emotional attachment, they are in delusion all the time,Their body cannot find a place of peace...
ਕੂੜੀ ਆਵੈ ਕੂੜੀ ਜਾਵੈ ਮਾਇਆ ਕੀ ਨਿਤ ਜੋਹਾ ॥
Koorree Aavai Koorree Jaavai Maa-iaa Kee nith Johaa
They come in falsehood, they go in falsehood, they always look out for Maya (illusion)
ਸਚੁ ਕਹੈ ਤਾ ਛੋਹੋ ਆਵੈ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਬਹੁਤਾ ਰੋਹਾ ॥
Sach[u] Kahai Thaa Chhoha Aavai A[n]thar Bahuthaa Rohaa
If you speak the truth then they get angry, they are filled with rage inside
ਵਿਆਪਿਆ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਕੁਬੁਧਿ ਕੁਮੂੜਾ ਮਨਿ ਲਾਗਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਮੋਹਾ ॥
Viaapiaa Dhurmath[i] Ku-budhh[i] Ku-moorraa Man[i] Laagaa This[u] Mohaa
They live within bad-thinking, bad decision making, bad and stupid...Their mind is engrossed in attachment...
ਠਗੈ ਸੇਤੀ ਠਗੁ ਰਲਿ ਆਇਆ ਸਾਥੁ ਭਿ ਇਕੋ ਜੇਹਾ॥
Ttagai Saethee Ttag[u] Ral[i] Aa-iaa Saathh[u] Bhi Iko Jaehaa
The frauds meet with the frauds, they keep company of people like them
ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਸਰਾਫੁ ਨਦਰੀ ਵਿਚਦੋ ਕਢੇ ਤਾਂ ਉਘੜਿ ਆਇਆ ਲੋਹਾ ॥
Sathigur[u] Saraaph nadhree Vichdho Kadtai Tha[n] Ugharr[i] Aa-iaa Lohaa
When they go to the Jeweller/Appraiser Guru Sahib then they see that the ‘Pandits’ were just normal metal [not precious metal, not special]
(Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib in Raam-kalee Ki Vaar, Ang 960)
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The first few chapters are relatively long of this book. After the Devi-Devte chapter then this book has smaller chapters. Thank you for reading Jio!
