.svg)
n this article, we will delve into Part One of Saakhi #11 of the Sikha Di Bhagat Maala series to understand how to be blessed by Gursikhi and receive the Guru’s happiness.
This series explores the life stories of Gursikhs from the time of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Arjan Dev Ji, as written by Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
The Story of Bhai Phirna Ji and Bhai Jodh Ji
ਫਿਰਣਾ ਖਹਿਰਾ ਜੋਧੁ ਸਿਖੁ ਜੀਵਾਈ ਗੁਰੁ ਸੇਵ ਸਮਾਵੈ ॥
Bhai Phirna of the Khaira clan, Jodh and Jiva always remained absorbed in the service of the Guru.
Bhai Phirna Ji and Bhai Jodh Ji hailed from Khadur Sahib. One day, they visited Kartarpur Sahib to meet Guru Nanak Dev Ji and became Sikhs of Guru Sahib Ji by taking the Charan Pahul Amrit. Today, we receive the Khande Baate Da Amrit, bestowed upon us by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Previously, those aspiring to become Sikhs would partake in the Charan Pahul Amrit ceremony. In a bowl, water was placed, and Guru Sahib Ji would immerse their feet in the Amrit. The Gursikh would then drink the blessed water as Guru Sahib Ji bestowed them with Naam.
After receiving the Amrit, the two Sikhs performed an Ardaas (humble plea) to Guru Sahib Ji, requesting teachings that would guide them towards liberation and enable them to attain the priceless gift of Gursikhi.
The Importance of Humility
Guru Nanak Dev Ji said that first of all, to be blessed with Sikhi, one must be very humble.
ਮਿਠਤੁ ਨੀਵੀ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਗੁਣ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ਤਤੁ ॥
Sweetness and humility, O Nanak, are the essence of virtue and goodness.
Gurbani encourages us to embody humility, even if we engage in extensive Bhagti (devotional worship), we must not see ourselves as superior to others. Whether attired in the Guru’s way, wearing a beautiful Dumaala (turban) and Baana, one should not harbour pride in their physical appearance. Guru Sahib Ji asked the Sikhs to awaken during Amritvela (early hours before dawn), bathe, and meditate on the Name of Vaheguru. To cultivate humility, Guru Sahib Ji explained that one must serve fellow Gursikhs and saints, go to the Guru Ghar, and serve the Sangat with love and genuine effort.
Seva, Simran and Sangat
The three S’s that Guru Sahib Ji has blessed us with are Seva, Simran, and Sangat. Simran involves meditating on Vaheguru Ji, which not only diminishes the ego but also cleanses away our negative Karma. The virtue of Sangat lies in the inspiration and motivation gained by being in the company of Gursikhs, encouraging us to walk on the path of Sikhi. Seva helps instil humility in us by ensuring that we recognize our life's purpose to help and serve others.
Limitless Blessings
ਹਰਿ ਧਨੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲੈ ਵਤੈ ਕਾ ਬੀਜਿਆ ਭਗਤ ਖਾਇ ਖਰਚਿ ਰਹੇ ਨਿਖੁਟੈ ਨਾਹੀ ॥
Next, Guru Sahib Ji advises the Sikhs that through the practice of Amritvela (waking up in the early hours before dawn to engage in Simran and read Gurbani), one accumulates the inexhaustible wealth of Naam. The fruits of remembering Vaheguru Ji during Amritvela are so abundant that individuals not only benefit personally but also share it with the world, yet it never depletes.
Following the Guru’s Teachings
Hence, Guru Sahib Ji instructed Bhai Phirna Ji and Bhai Jodh Ji to wake up at Amritvela, perform Ishnaan, engage in Vaheguru Simran, and then join the Saadh Sangat (the holy company) to listen to the contemplation of the Guru’s Shabad. By remaining humble, recognizing Vaheguru as the master, considering oneself as Vaheguru’s servant, and serving the Sangat with utmost love and devotion, one can attain Gursikhi.
Bhai Phirna and Bhai Jodh Ji embraced the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and incorporated them into their daily lives. Through consistent practice, they achieved liberation and became one with Vaheguru Ji.
