ਤੀਜੈ (teejai)
Meaning: adverb: At the third (stage of life).
Quote:
ਤੀਜੈ ਭਯਾ ਭਾਭੀ ਬੇਬ॥ ਚਉਥੈ ਪਿਆਰਿ ਉਪੰਨੀ ਖੇਡ॥
teejai bhayaa bhaabhee beb. chauthai piaar upaňee kheḍ.
Message: In this verse, Guru Sahib talks about third and fourth stage of human development. As the infant grows, it starts recognizing and interacting with siblings and other close relatives. Guru Sahib mentions brother, brother’s wife and sister as symbolic of other relations apart from parents.
In the next fourth phase, the love or desire to play originates in us. This is the first time when we need to be careful about our choices. Are we playing with safe items or dangerous things? We need help to choose activities that are appropriate for our abilities and interests.
We need the same help and guidance from the Guru so that we can indulge in right activities and relations at whatever phase of life we are. We need to hold the Guru’s hand, i.e., follow the teachings enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib.
Remember, the mind is still very playful and naughty! Better to keep it reined in.
Etymology: From Sanskrit trutiya (third) → Pali triti/tatiya → Prakrit teeaa/teejjaa → Punjabi teeaa/teejjaa.