Word Of The Day: paňch Bail

ਪੰਚ ਬੈਲ (paňch bail)
Meaning: noun: Five oxen, bulls.

Quote:
ਪੰਚ ਬੈਲ ਗਡੀਆ ਦੇਹ ਧਾਰੀ॥ ਰਾਮ ਕਲਾ ਨਿਬਹੈ ਪਤਿ ਸਾਰੀ॥
paňch bail gaḍeeaa deh dhaaree. raam kalaa nibhai pat saaree.
The five bulls pull this small wagon of the body. Its honor is preserved as long as the Divine Force functions within it.
– Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, Page 879

Message: Five bulls represent the five senses that support or pull the wagon (the human body). The body continues moving and working till the life force within supports it.

However when the axle of the wagon is broken, its structure falls to the ground and scatters. Likewise, when the life force supporting the body leaves it, the body and its organs wither away.

Hence, let’s realise life’s transitory nature. Restrain our senses from falling into the trap of worldly temptations and vices. Instead of following the path of externalities and rituals, seek guidance from Gurbani. Make best use of your body and its parts, and harness the five senses fruitfully before they are exhausted and vanish.

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Etymology: From Sanskrit balill (ox) → Prakrit ba-ill (ox) → Punjabi bai-l (bull, ox).