ਕੇਦਾਰੁ (kedaar)
Meaning: noun: Kedarnath, one of the ancient pilgrimage sites in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
Quote:
ਜਾਹਰਨਵੀ ਤਪੈ ਭਾਗੀਰਥਿ ਆਣੀ ਕੇਦਾਰੁ ਥਾਪਿਓ ਮਹਸਾਈ॥
jaaharnvee tapai bhaageerath aaṇee kedaar thaapio mahasaaee.
It is believed that, an ascetic Bhagirath brought the Ganges (down to earth from heaven), and Shiva established the pilgrimage site of Kedar. -Guru Ram Das, Guru Granth Sahib, 1263
Message: Kedarnath is a town located in the Himalayas and is famous for the Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Just because it is believed that an ascetic Bhagirath brought the Ganges (down to earth from heaven), and Shiva established Kedarnath does not make pilgrimages to these places sufficient or necessary for salvation.
Most of the sacred rivers and holy places obtain glory and are considered sacred because of their association with some great saint or wise man. It is the wisdom of such people that makes such places important, not merely the physical location.
Listening to the teachings of the Guru is more significant than merely visiting or bathing at any “holy” place. When we heed and follow the higher words of wisdom, we are rid of our ignorance and misconception.
Instead of bathing in the waters, let us bathe in divinity and act on the advice of great saints who sing the praises of the Divine in Guru Granth Sahib.
Etymology: Historically, named in the honour of King Kedar, who ruled in ancient times.
(Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kedarnath)
