"Ramaiah" or Lord Ram in Sukhmani Sahib
"Ramaiah" is more than just the son of Dasrath, the Prince of Ayodhya; it is the metaphor for the omnipotent, omniscient God.
Ram or Ramaiah in Sikh Scriptures
As we approach the momentous occasion of the consecration of Lord Ram's Mandir at Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, a once-in-a-millennial event, our reflections turn towards the numerous references to Lord Ram in Sikh scriptures. In previous writings, we have explored the verses of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji and Bhagat Kabir Ji enshrined in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, where the name 'Ram' or its derivates are used, with utmost reverence, in various contexts. Sometimes it refers to the omniscient and omnipotent God (Akaal Purakh), at times to the son of Dasrath and Prince of Ayodhya, and occasionally as an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Against this backdrop, some of our readers have inquired about explicit references to Lord Ram in Sukhmani Sahib.
About Sukhmani Sahib
"Sukhmani Sahib," a revered scripture in Sikhism, was authored by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Meaning "Psalm of Peace" or "Song of Peace," this extensive Gurbani composition is divided into 24 Ashtpadis, each comprising 8 stanzas. Each stanza contains 10 lines, and the entire text is written in Gurmukhi script, forming a part of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, from Ang 262 onwards. Central to Sukhmani Sahib is the pursuit of eternal peace and comfort for the mind and soul, achieved through the remembrance of God (Naam Japna). The scripture, deeply rooted in spiritual teachings, offers guidance on living a life filled with virtue and meaning.
The Fourth Ashtpadi
Let's direct our focus to the opening lines, specifically the first 'pauri' of the fourth Ashtpadi of Sukhmani Sahib. This section is devoted to exploring what “Ramaiah”, the Almighty God, has graciously bestowed upon mortal beings.
ਅਸਟਪਦੀ ॥
असटपदी ॥
English Transliteration: Asatpaḏī.
English Translation: Ashtapadee.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਰਮਈਆ ਕੇ ਗੁਨ ਚੇਤਿ ਪਰਾਨੀ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (रमईआ के गुन चेति परानी ॥)
English Transliteration: Rama▫ī▫ā ke gun cẖeṯ parānī.
English Translation: Think of the Glory of the All-pervading Lord, O mortal.
Analysis:
This verse from Sukhmani Sahib is a profound reminder to always keep in mind the virtues and glory of the Divine, referred to here as "Rama▫ī▫ā" - a term that connotes the all-pervading nature of God. The word "Rama▫ī▫ā" can be seen as a composite of 'Ram', a name for God, and 'aia', a suffix implying pervasiveness, thus denoting the omnipresence of the Lord. The use of "parānī," meaning mortal, addresses the human condition, reminding us of our transient nature and the importance of focusing on the eternal divine qualities. This line encapsulates a key tenet of Sikhism, which is the continuous contemplation and meditation on the divine as a path to spiritual enlightenment and peace. It underscores the idea that the awareness of God's attributes is essential for one's spiritual journey, guiding one towards a higher consciousness and understanding of the universe's grandeur.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਕਵਨ ਮੂਲ ਤੇ ਕਵਨ ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਾਨੀ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (कवन मूल ते कवन द्रिसटानी ॥)
English Transliteration: Kavan mūl ṯe kavan ḏaristānī.
English Translation: What is your origin, and what is your appearance?
Analysis:
This verse from Sukhmani Sahib poses profound existential questions, asking about one's origin and appearance. "Kavan mūl" (what is your origin) encourages a contemplation of the fundamental source from which one emerges, hinting at the deeper, spiritual origin that transcends physical existence. "Kavan ḏaristānī" (what is your appearance) further explores the concept of physical manifestation, prompting introspection about the transient nature of the human form and its contrast to the eternal soul. This line guides the seeker to ponder the contrast between the temporal physical world and the eternal spiritual realm. By questioning the origins and appearance, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the composer of these priceless lines, directs the devotee's attention towards understanding the deeper truth of our existence, beyond the superficial layers of worldly identities and physical attributes. It's a call to recognize the soul's immortality and its eternal connection with the Divine, urging an exploration of one's true nature that lies beyond the material world.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਜਿਨਿ ਤੂੰ ਸਾਜਿ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਸੀਗਾਰਿਆ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (जिनि तूं साजि सवारि सीगारिआ ॥)
English Transliteration: Jin ṯūʼn sāj savār sīgāri▫ā.
English Translation: He who fashioned, adorned, and decorated you.
Analysis:
This line from Sukhmani Sahib is an expression of deep gratitude and recognition of the divine craftsmanship in creating the human being. "Jin ṯūʼn sāj" refers to the Divine as the creator who has 'fashioned' or 'formed' us. "Savār sīgāri▫ā" extends this idea, suggesting that God has not only created us but also 'adorned' and 'decorated' us, implying the bestowal of unique qualities, abilities, and attributes to each individual. This verse evokes a sense of awe and reverence towards the Creator, acknowledging the intricate and beautiful design of life and existence, far beyond the clothes, cosmetics and ornaments. It reminds us that every aspect of our being, from our physical form to our inner qualities, is a result of divine artistry. This realization cultivates humility, appreciation for the diversity and complexity of life, and a deeper connection with the divine source. It encourages an appreciation of our own existence as a divine gift, intricately crafted and lovingly adorned by the Creator.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਗਰਭ ਅਗਨਿ ਮਹਿ ਜਿਨਹਿ ਉਬਾਰਿਆ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (गरभ अगनि महि जिनहि उबारिआ ॥)
English Transliteration: Garabẖ agan mėh jinėh ubāri▫ā.
English Translation: In the fire of the womb, He preserved you.
Analysis:
This verse metaphorically describes the womb as a 'fire' (ਗਰਭ ਅਗਨਿ - Garabẖ agan), a place of transformation and creation, where life is forged and nurtured. The phrase "jinėh ubāri▫ā" (He preserved you) acknowledges the divine protection and sustenance provided during this critical and vulnerable phase of life. This line is a powerful reminder of the miraculous process of birth and the unseen divine hand that ensures the safe development and delivery of a new life, even in the elevated temperature inside the mother’s womb. It speaks to the profound mystery and sanctity of life, from its very inception, and the omnipresent care of the Divine throughout this journey. This verse instills a deep sense of gratitude and awe for the life-giving and sustaining power of God, recognizing the divine presence even in the most intimate and foundational aspects of our existence. It underscores the notion that our journey and preservation, even before we are born, are part of a divine plan, emphasizing the continuous and compassionate involvement of the Divine in every stage of human life.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਬਾਰ ਬਿਵਸਥਾ ਤੁਝਹਿ ਪਿਆਰੈ ਦੂਧ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (बार बिवसथा तुझहि पिआरै दूध ॥)
English Transliteration: Bār bivasthā tujẖėh pi▫ārai ḏūḏẖ.
English Translation: In your infancy, He gave you milk to drink.
Analysis:
This verse addresses the divine providence in the earliest stage of human life – infancy. The term "ਬਾਰ ਬਿਵਸਥਾ" (Bār bivasthā) refers to the period of infancy, a time when a human being is most vulnerable and dependent. The line "ਤੁਝਹਿ ਪਿਆਰੈ ਦੂਧ" (tujẖėh pi▫ārai ḏūḏẖ) signifies that even in this helpless state, it is the Divine who provides sustenance in the form of milk. This metaphorically represents not only the physical nourishment provided to a child but also the larger idea of God's nurturing and caring nature.The verse evokes a sense of gratitude and wonder for the natural yet miraculous ways in which life is sustained and cared for by the Divine, especially during phases when one is incapable of self-care. It suggests that the Divine's grace is omnipresent and nurturing, right from the earliest moments of our existence. This acknowledgment of divine nurturing in infancy is a humbling reminder of the continuous dependence on the Divine for sustenance and survival, reinforcing the theme of God's omnipresent role as a provider and protector throughout the cycle of life.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਭਰਿ ਜੋਬਨ ਭੋਜਨ ਸੁਖ ਸੂਧ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (भरि जोबन भोजन सुख सूध ॥)
English Transliteration: Bẖar joban bẖojan sukẖ sūḏẖ.
English Translation: In the flower of your youth, He gave you food, pleasure and understanding.
Analysis:
This verse highlights the divine blessings bestowed during the period of youth, described as "ਭਰਿ ਜੋਬਨ" (Bẖar joban), symbolizing the prime of life. The line "ਭੋਜਨ ਸੁਖ ਸੂਧ" (bẖojan sukẖ sūḏẖ) encompasses the provision of food (physical sustenance), pleasure (emotional fulfillment), and understanding (intellectual and spiritual growth).This verse is a poignant reminder of the diverse ways in which the Divine nurtures and supports an individual through the journey of life. In youth, a time characterized by vigor, exploration, and growth, it is the Divine who provides not just the material necessities but also the intangible assets of happiness and wisdom.
The mention of 'understanding' (ਸੂਧ - sūḏẖ) is particularly significant, as it suggests that along with physical and emotional nourishment, spiritual and intellectual development is also a gift from the Divine. This emphasizes the holistic care that the Divine provides, catering to all aspects of human existence – physical, emotional, and spiritual.
Overall, the verse inspires a deep appreciation for the various stages of life, each with its own divine blessings and opportunities for growth and fulfillment. It underlines the idea that every phase of life, including youth, is under the benevolent gaze of the Divine, who ensures a harmonious balance of physical sustenance, emotional joy, and intellectual enlightenment.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਬਿਰਧਿ ਭਇਆ ਊਪਰਿ ਸਾਕ ਸੈਨ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (बिरधि भइआ ऊपरि साक सैन ॥)
English Transliteration: Biraḏẖ bẖa▫i▫ā ūpar sāk sain.
English Translation: As you grow old, family and friends are there.
Analysis:
This verse touches on the later stage of life, old age, described here as "ਬਿਰਧਿ ਭਇਆ" (Biraḏẖ bẖa▫i▫ā), indicating the time when one becomes elderly. The presence of "ਸਾਕ ਸੈਨ" (sāk sain), meaning family and friends, is emphasized as a significant aspect of this phase.The line conveys the idea that as individuals advance into their later years, they are not alone; they are surrounded by their loved ones - their family and friends. This is a reminder of the social support system that plays a crucial role in one's elderly years. The verse highlights the importance of relationships and community in providing comfort, care, and companionship during a stage of life that is often marked by physical decline and increased dependency.
This verse from Sukhmani Sahib underscores the continuous care and support provided by the Divine through the presence of loved ones. It is a profound recognition of the human need for companionship and emotional support, especially in old age. The verse serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human life, where each stage is supported by the divine grace manifesting through relationships and community bonds. It also encourages a sense of gratitude towards those who stand by us in our later years, recognizing them as a form of divine support and blessing.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਮੁਖਿ ਅਪਿਆਉ ਬੈਠ ਕਉ ਦੈਨ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (मुखि अपिआउ बैठ कउ दैन ॥)
English Transliteration: Mukẖ api▫ā▫o baiṯẖ ka▫o ḏain.
English Translation: To feed you as you rest.
8. Analysis:
This line continues the theme of care and support in old age. "ਮੁਖਿ ਅਪਿਆਉ" (Mukẖ api▫ā▫o) translates to feeding, and "ਬੈਠ ਕਉ ਦੈਨ" (baiṯẖ ka▫o ḏain) indicates the act of providing nourishment while one is seated or resting. This verse poignantly illustrates the stage of life where one's physical abilities may have declined to the point that they need to be fed by others. This line embodies the compassion and care provided by family and caregivers in one’s later years. It reflects the cyclical nature of life, where one who was once capable of caring for themselves and others may eventually need to be cared for. It's a humbling reminder of the vulnerabilities and dependencies that come with old age.
The verse also subtly points to the idea of receiving care with grace and gratitude. Just as a child is lovingly fed, the elderly are cared for with the same affection and respect, symbolizing the ongoing cycle of care and interdependence in human life. This care is another form of divine blessing, illustrating how the Divine continues to provide for and protect individuals throughout their lives, even when they are most vulnerable. The verse instills a sense of dignity in receiving care, recognizing it as a natural part of life's journey and a manifestation of divine love through human actions.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਇਹੁ ਨਿਰਗੁਨੁ ਗੁਨੁ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਬੂਝੈ ॥
Hindi (in brackets): (इहु निरगुनु गुनु कछू न बूझै ॥)
English Transliteration: Ih nirgun gun kacẖẖū na būjẖai.
English Translation: This worthless person has not appreciated in the least, all the good deeds done for him.
Analysis:
This verse reflects on the human tendency to overlook or fail to appreciate the countless blessings and care provided throughout life. The term "ਇਹੁ ਨਿਰਗੁਨੁ" (Ih nirgun) translates to 'this worthless person,' indicating a self-reflective acknowledgment of one's own ingratitude or lack of understanding. "ਗੁਨੁ ਕਛੂ ਨ ਬੂਝੈ" (gun kacẖẖū na būjẖai) means 'has not understood or appreciated the virtues' - here, 'virtues' representing the benevolent acts and blessings bestowed upon the individual.This line serves as a poignant reminder of the human flaw of ingratitude, where despite being the recipient of constant care, love, and blessings from the Divine and others, one often remains oblivious to their value. It is a call to introspection, urging individuals to cultivate a sense of gratitude and recognition for the seen and unseen ways in which they are supported and nurtured throughout life.
The verse conveys a deeper spiritual message that true wisdom and fulfillment lie in recognizing and appreciating these divine gifts. It encourages a shift from taking life's blessings for granted to acknowledging and cherishing them, thus fostering a deeper connection with the Divine and with those around us. The acknowledgment of one's 'worthlessness' in this context is not about self-deprecation but about humbly recognizing one's limitations and the immense grace that sustains life despite these shortcomings.
Punjabi/Gurmukhi: ਬਖਸਿ ਲੇਹੁ ਤਉ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੀਝੈ ॥੧॥
Hindi (in brackets): (बखसि लेहु तउ नानक सीझै ॥१॥)
English Transliteration: Bakẖas leho ṯa▫o Nānak sījẖai. ||1||
English Translation: If you bless him with forgiveness, O Nanak, only then will he be saved. ||1||
Analysis:
This verse encapsulates a plea for divine forgiveness and the essential role it plays in spiritual salvation. "ਬਖਸਿ ਲੇਹੁ" (Bakẖas leho) means 'grant forgiveness.' The verse implores the Divine to bestow forgiveness, acknowledging that it is only through divine grace that one can achieve true salvation or spiritual success. The use of "ਨਾਨਕ ਸੀਝੈ" (Nānak sījẖai) signifies Guru Nanak's affirmation that salvation lies in the hands of the Divine and is a result of divine forgiveness. The line reflects the core Sikh belief in the power of divine grace and forgiveness. It highlights human imperfection and the inability to fully comprehend or appreciate the blessings received. The verse teaches that despite human fallibility and ingratitude, the path to salvation is through seeking forgiveness and grace from the Divine.It is a humble acknowledgment of human limitations and the necessity of divine compassion for liberation. This plea for forgiveness is not just for individual transgressions but also for the collective human failure to recognize and value the divine benevolence in life. The verse conveys a profound spiritual truth that ultimate redemption and enlightenment are possible not through human efforts alone but through the compassionate forgiveness of the Divine.
Essence of these Verses
In the selected verses from Sukhmani Sahib, a profound narrative unfolds, revealing the multifaceted ways in which "Ramaiah" - the Almighty God - nurtures, sustains, and guides the mortal being through the journey of life.
The verses commence with an invocation to remember and cherish the glory of the Divine, addressing humanity's tendency to overlook the omnipresent virtues of the Almighty. This remembrance is crucial, as it forms the bedrock of spiritual awareness and connection. The subsequent verses beautifully traverse the human life cycle, starting from the mysterious and divine protection in the womb, symbolized by the 'fire of the womb,' where life is intricately crafted and preserved.
As the journey continues, the Divine's role as the nurturer during infancy is highlighted, providing sustenance in the form of milk, a metaphor for the basic yet profound care bestowed upon a vulnerable new life. The narrative then progresses to youth, a time of vigor and discovery, where God provides not only physical nourishment but also emotional fulfillment and wisdom, aiding in the holistic development of the individual.
The verses poignantly shift to old age, a period often marked by physical decline. Here, the Divine's grace manifests through the support of family and friends, a testament to the enduring care and compassion that surrounds an individual even as they become more dependent.
Yet, despite this perpetual divine presence and support, the verses acknowledge a universal human shortfall - ingratitude and a lack of understanding of these divine acts. This recognition of human fallibility culminates in a humble plea for forgiveness, emphasizing that salvation and enlightenment are attainable not through human merit alone but through the merciful and forgiving nature of the Almighty.
In essence, these verses from Sukhmani Sahib encapsulate a comprehensive portrait of the human condition, underscored by the constant, all-pervading grace of "Ramaiah." From creation to sustenance, and from nurturing to forgiveness, the verses underscore that every phase of life and every aspect of existence is imbued with the divine touch, guiding, protecting, and leading the mortal towards the ultimate spiritual truth.
Concluding Reflections
As we keenly await the consecration of the Ram Mandir, it becomes crucial to reflect on and embrace the wider spiritual teachings of the Sukhmani Sahib. This sacred text, with its mentions of 'Ramaiah' and other divine appellations such as Ram, Hari, Prabhu, and Hara, emphasizes an unwavering devotion to the Almighty. It encourages cultivating a mindset of thankfulness, acknowledging the limitless gifts of the divine, instead of dwelling on minor, unmet desires. Additionally, various verses in the Guru Granth Sahib vividly describe and praise the endurance and resilience demonstrated by Lord Ram in his earthly incarnation as the Prince of Ayodhya, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. However, regardless of the context, the enduring and profound message echoes powerfully, particularly as we commemorate this monumental occasion at Ayodhya, urging us to offer our heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty.
For those eager to delve deeper into these themes, consulting standard translations of the Sukhmani Sahib, readily accessible online, is recommended. These sources offer a richer understanding of its core teachings, transcending language and terminology, and guiding us towards a life marked by gratitude and spiritual enrichment.
