ਬਾਂਹ (baaṅh)
Meaning: noun: Arm.
Quote:
ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਬਾਂਹ ਪਕਰਾਈ ਊਤਮ ਮਤਿ ਪਾਈ ਗੁਰ ਚਰਣੀ ਜਨੁ ਲਾਗਾ॥
prabh baaṅh pakraaee ootam mat paaee gur charṇee jan laagaa.
The devotee, to whom the Divine has extended an arm or hand, has been attached to the feet of the Guru (Gurbani) and obtained the sublime understanding. – Guru Ram Das, Guru Granth Sahib, 446
Message: Listening to the melodious verses of Gurbani may be very soothing. However, would it not be great to read or recite them with mindfulness and intellect?
Seekers or disciples need to continue moving on their journey. So let us advance towards the next step. The wisdom enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib is a gem that we need to uncover.
Thus, reading Gurbani ourselves is the next step we must take up. This we can begin in a local Gurdwara or school where lessons are provided on reading the Gurmukhi script to become proficient in reciting Gurbani. When we consider ourselves prepared, we can resolve to perform the first reading from separate parts or volumes (sainchis/pothis) of Guru Granth Sahib.
Let us seek to unravel this treasure ourselves. Whoever seeks this treasure has the Guru reaching out towards them. Reading the words of the Guru with love and devotion is the key to unlocking our minds, taking us out of darkness and ignorance of our current state of mind. It is like holding the hand of the Guru and moving towards the light. Associate with Guru oriented likeminded people, and, endeavour to climb this step.
We will talk about the next step tomorrow. Three more steps to a realm of peace!
Etymology: From Sanskrit/Pali/Prakrit baahu (arm) → Sindhi/Punjabi baaṅh.
