ਪਾਈ (paa-ee)
Meaning: noun: Literally, a cup used in a water clock or a measure of capacity used for grain in the past; (measures of breaths or life).
Quote:
ਜੇ ਬਹੁਤੇਰਾ ਪੜਿਆ ਹੋਵਹਿ ਕੋ ਰਹੈ ਨ ਭਰੀਐ ਪਾਈ॥
je bahuteraa paṛiaa hovahi ko rahai na bharee-ai paaee.
Even if you may be very educated, but no one can remain in the world when the cup or measure of life becomes full. -Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, 24
Message: Overflowing Cup
In ancient times, Time was measured by a water clock which consisted of a bowl holding two floats in a larger bowl filled with water.
A paaee is a small bowl with a hole underneath – used in water clocks.
The bowl was filled with water from a small hole at its bottom. It sank when completely filled and was marked by the beating of a drum at daytime.
The Guru has used it as an analogy for the transitory nature of human existence.
Even if one is very learned or wise, one has to leave this world when the allotted span of life is over or the cup of life is full.
Only the Creator is eternal and unperishable. How wise is it for us to feel overly proud or conceited about our superficial ego or religiosity?
Instead of taking undue pride in our prayers or studies, why not concentrate on remembering the Creator with a sincere heart and performing virtuous deeds.
ਮੁਹਲਤਿ ਪੁਨੀ ਪਾਈ ਭਰੀ ਜਾਨੀਅੜਾ ਘਤਿ ਚਲਾਇਆ॥
When one’s time is up, and the measure is full, the dear soul is caught, and driven off. -Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, 578
Want to read more on water clock? Click here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_clock
Etymology: From Sanskrit paadikaa (worth a quarter, a coin) → Sindhi paaee (1/12 anna) → Lahndi paaee (a measure of capacity, 1/12 anna).
