ਜੀਅ (jeea)
Meaning: noun: Life; soul, heart; self.
Quote:
ਭਾਈ ਮੀਤ ਸੁਤ ਸਗਲ ਤੇ ਜੀਅ ਹੂੰ ਤੇ ਪਿਆਰਾ॥
bhaaee meet sut sagal te jeea hooň te piaaraa.
(Servant of God) is dearer to me than all my brothers, friends, sons, even my own self
– Guru Arjan Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, 745
Message: Dearer than life…
Even beyond their own family and self, the Gurus loved virtuous, upright people. The Gurus even refused to give the guruship to their own sons who did not practise a virtuous way of life.
Relationships with family members are temporary, but the relationship with the Creator is a permanent and lasting one.
This type of relationship is established by devotees who walk the righteous path and emulate virtues. However, only after we embrace divine teachings and abandon our egoism can we obtain virtues.
Let us also yearn for the company of such dedicated and virtuous persons who help us stay attuned to the Creator’s love and attributes.
Etymology: From Sanskrit jeev (any living being, vital breath) → Pali jeev (life, soul) → Prakrit jeev/jee (life, living creature) → Old Punjabi jeeu (life, soul)/Sindhi jeeu (life, living being, animal).
Summary of the Week:
The verses of this week indicate that our Gurus had lots of regard for their fellow beings. They showed deep love, respect and affection to their Sikhs and all other seekers who came in contact with them.
Since they were shining examples of humility and grace, we need to imitate their lifestyles and positive attitudes to life.
Doing so will help us in our self-transformation. When we change within, we can be positive influencers on the world stage.
The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace. -Carlos Santana, a Mexican and American musician, b. 1947
