Gurbani Word Of The Day : Kudrat

Message: In these concluding lines of pauri 16, Guru Nanak reiterates his message: the creative force of the Divine is beyond human comprehension. When this realization dawns on us, we are filled with humility and overcome with immense gratitude. 

He alone knows best what is good for all of us; let His will be done. He is formless, but eternal and constant. His creation is subject to change, but He abides forever.

The Creator alone knows Himself and His creation. Humble yourself before His infinity and eternity and stay blessed!

Etymology: From Arabic/Persian qudrat (power, ability; creation, nature)

Summary of the Week:
Guru Nanak introduces us to the notion of panch. This is a significant doctrine and tradition and points to those who have heeded the Guru’s call and scaled the spiritual summit and have divine approval to be leaders of humankind (panch parvaan panch pardhaan).

Dharam is another concept that Guru Nanak touches on and it seems linked to the idea of panch. Only the panch can uphold dharam, because their inner state (consciousness) is Guru-centered and not self-centered. They have realized the truth that it is dharam that binds and sustains all creation and that it is every human’s obligation to do their bit in executing hukam.

Creation and its vast expanse is ineffable and beyond human understanding. We must all strive to become like the panch, who have developed a deeper inner consciousness through the Guru’s teachings and who move beyond futile attempts to describe (intellectually) creation. Instead, they awaken deeper inner faculties and rejoice in the endless bounty of creation.

ਜੋ ਤੁਧੁ ਭਾਵੈ ਸਾਈ ਭਲੀ ਕਾਰ॥ ਤੂ ਸਦਾ ਸਲਾਮਤਿ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰ॥
O Formless One! The action which is pleasing to You is the good action to be done; (although Your creation is subject to change yet) You are ever eternal. – Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, Page 03