Gurbani Word Of The Day: jatee

ਜਤੀ (jatee)

Meaning: noun: Literally, an ascetic who practises control of the senses. Traditionally, it means a person who abstains from sexual relations and remains unmarried; especially, one who has taken a religious vow of chastity and celibacy.

Quote:
ਜਤੀ ਸਦਾਵਹਿ  ਜੁਗਤਿ ਨ ਜਾਣਹਿ   ਛਡਿ ਬਹਹਿ ਘਰ ਬਾਰੁ॥
ਜਿਹੜੇ ਜਤੀ-ਸਤੀ ਕਹਾਉਂਦੇ ਹਨ, ਜੀਵਨ ਦੀ ਸਹੀ ਜੁਗਤੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਜਾਣਦੇ ਅਤੇ ਘਰ-ਘਾਟ ਛੱਡ ਬੈਠਦੇ ਹਨ।

jatee sadaavahi  jugati na jaanahi   chhaḍ bahahi ghar baar.
Those who call themselves celibate do not know the right way of life and abandon the households. -Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, 469

Message: Some people professed to be practising celibacy, which was one of the many fads in vogue during those days.

The celibates expected to attain unmatched physical, mental and spiritual powers, which shall make them great and exclusive.  

However, they were unaware that real celibacy demands discipline and self-control and not abandoning the responsibilities of the household. Many of them showed lack of discipline and yet claimed to be perfect.

The real measure or worth of individuals is known by their character and the honour and respect they earn in life, not merely by their words or vows.

Etymology: From Sanskrit yatin (an ascetic who practises control of the senses), from Sanskrit yat (control, restraint of senses).

And/or, from Punjabi jat from Prakrit jaya from Pali yata from Sanskrit yat (control, restraint of senses) + ee (a suffix).

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here