Gurbani Word Of The Day: kokil

ਕੋਕਿਲ (kokil)
Meaning: noun: Koel, the Indian cuckoo (a singing bird).

Quote:
ਕੋਕਿਲ ਹੋਵਾ ਅੰਬਿ ਬਸਾ ਸਹਜਿ ਸਬਦ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ॥
kokil hovaa aṁb basaa sahaj sabad beechaar.
If I were a cuckoo, I would live on a mango tree. (As the cuckoo sings sweet songs) I too contemplate on the sweet Word of the Guru peacefully. – Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, 157

Message: In the English language, the word ‘cuckoo’ is sometimes used to mean ‘crazy’. But in the Indian context, the Indian cuckoo (koel) is looked upon with favour as it heralds the arrival of the mango season or rain; and its call is considered melodious.

The Guru wants to be like the bird (koel) which happily lives in mango orchards. The cuckoo is ever positive and joyous, blissfully enjoying the peaceful atmosphere while concentrating on its melodic singing.

In the same way, we can be attentive and active in our daily list of ‘mundane’ worldly activities while remembering and singing the praises of the Divine and serving His creation.

Let’s slow the pace of our lives and take notice of our senses as we take in the ‘sights and sounds’ of this garden of life on planet earth. Let’s constantly contemplate and reflect on the Divine while responsibly carrying out our earthly duties.

Infact the remembrance of the Creator will bring forth a fresh rainbow of fun, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.

It is in the nature of things that joy arises in a person free from remorse. – Buddha

Etymology:From Sanskrit kokil (the Indian cuckoo) → Pali kokil → Prakrit, Sindhi and Punjabi koil.