Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh Jee on Sri Dasam Granth

To quote all the times Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh mentions Sri Dasam Granth would become too numerous and this post would become endless. For a complete list of references Bhai Sahib has made to Dasam Bani click here.

This post will show just a few times Bhai Sahib mentions Sri Dasam Bani.

In this extract from Gurmat Lekh by Bhai Sahib he writes that Guru Gobind Singh Jee's writing (which he calls Sri Dasmesh Vakha, or words of Guru Gobind Singh) is the same as the previous Gurus. Guru Gobind Singh did not change the previous Gurus philosophy. Whatever Guru Gobind Singh wrote in Sri Dasam Bani is the same as what the previous Gurus wrote. Bhai Sahib calls Sri Dasam Bani Sri Mukhvaakh! (Gurmat Lekh- Page 133)

Bhai Sahib mentions that Guru Gobind Singh Jee used the word Bhagauti for Akaal Purakh, the same way he used the words Sarab Kaal, Sarab Loh and Kharag Khet as names for God. Bhai Sahib says those people that translate Bhagauti as a name for some Devi are doing so out of their small intellect, which is their manmat and not Gurmat. Those that mislead Sikhs and say Bhagauti is a name for a devi are leading themselves (and others) off the path of Gurmat. (Gurmat Lekh- Page 188)

ਕੋਵਿਰਲਾਗੁਰਮਤਿਚਲੈਜੀਉ!

Dhunnee (Simran) in Keertan

The Name Akhand Keertani Jatha came upon the Jatha for a reason, the Keertan they did was akhand, continuous, it would last for hours and only Gurbani was sung. This was a strict rule, no dhunee (Simran of Gurmantar) was done nor was any shabad katha (viakhia) done during Keertan.

Having talked to Singhs from Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh's times it is clear, that the Keertan was always Akhand and Simran was not done. The list of Gursikhs that have confirmed this is too long.

Bhai Jeevan Singh Ji was asked by Gursikhs if dhunee was done by By Bhai Randhir Singh, he answered no. He was then asked if he himself used to do dhunee, he again answered no. When asked why he started doing dhunee in Keertan, he answered "Dekha Dekhee". Meaning he began to copy others.  Dhunee did not happen in the Puratan Jatha days like it happens now. It was very rare and when it happened it would last for hours.

The modern day Jatha is now famous for the amount of Dhunee that is done during Keertan. Obviously doing abhiaas of Gurmantar at any time can't be called wrong. When Sangat gets together and does Simran, is a blessed time, only good can come out of it and you can't be punished for doing Simran, however traditionally Simran was not done in Keertan. This tradition was followed by all Keertani Jathai, not just the Akhand Keertanee Jatha.

There are still a few Gursikhs that don't do any Dhunee in Keertan and have kept the tradition of Akhand Keertan alive.

Bhai Jeevan Singh with Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh

Charitropaakhian and Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee

Charitropaakhian in an Old Gutka Sahib

Those that do not consider Sri Charitropaakhian to be the Bani of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee usually say that  you cannot read this composition in front of your mothers,sisters and daughters as it is "awkward". Kaam is a big a problem for humans, it may be called the strongest of the 5 Chors, especially for youth. It has led the fall of great kings and leaders of our world.
Gurbani Says:

ਕੋ ਕੋ ਨ ਬਿਗੂਤੋ ਮੈ ਕੋ ਆਹਿ ॥੧॥
Who has not been ruined by sexual desire? What am I? ||1||
(1194)

Who hasn't been ruined by Kaam? Kaam is very dangerous so Guru Gobind Singh Jee looking out for the Khalsa wrote extensively about Kaam in Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee. This is not to say that the topic of Kaam does not come up in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee. Guru Granth Sahib Jee makes references to a lot of metaphors and historical events which are then expanded upon by Guru Gobind Singh Jee in Sri Dasam Granth.

Guru Jee Says in Guru Granth Sahib Jee:

ਉਰਝਿਓ ਕਨਕ ਕਾਮਨੀ ਕੇ ਰਸ ਨਹ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਗਾਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
I am entangled in the love of gold and women, and I have not sung the Kirtan of God's Praises. ||1||Pause||
(718)

ਕੁਚਲ ਕਠੋਰ ਕਾਮਿ ਗਰਧਭ ਤੁਮ ਨਹੀ ਸੁਨਿਓ ਧਰਮ ਰਾਇ ॥1॥ ਰਹਾਉ  ॥
You filthy, heartless, lustful donkey! Haven't you heard of the Righteous Judge of Dharma? ||1||Pause||
(1001)

ਕਾਮਿ ਕ੍ਰੋਧਿ ਲੋਭਿ ਮੋਹਿ ਬਿਆਪਿਓ ਨੇਤ੍ਰ ਰਖੇ ਫਿਰਾਇ ॥
You are engrossed in sexual desire, anger, greed and emotional attachment; you have turned your eyes away from the Truth.
(1001)

Guru Granth Sahib Jee mentions countless times that we are engrossed in Kaam, sexual desire and we have forgotten Akaal Purakh.

Direct references to Kaam are mentioned  in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee:

ਕਾਮੁ ਚਿਤੈ ਕਾਮਣਿ ਹਿਤਕਾਰੀ ॥ 
The lover of women is obsessed with sex.
(225)

ਇਸਤਰੀ ਪੁਰਖ ਕਾਮਿ ਵਿਆਪੇ ਜੀਉ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਬਿਧਿ ਨਹੀ ਜਾਣੀ ॥ 
Men and women are obsessed with sex; they do not know the Way of the Lord's Name.
(246)

ਮਿਥਨ ਮੋਹ ਅਗਨਿ ਸੋਕ ਸਾਗਰ ॥  
Attachment to sex is an ocean of fire and pain.
(760)

ਬੇਸੁਆ ਰਵਤ ਅਜਾਮਲੁ ਉਧਰਿਓ ਮੁਖਿ ਬੋਲੈ ਨਾਰਾਇਣੁ ਨਰਹਰੇ ॥
Ajaamal, who had sex with prostitutes, was saved, by chanting the Name of the Lord.
(995)

ਜੈਸੇ ਬਿਖੈ ਹੇਤ ਪਰ ਨਾਰੀ ॥
As the man driven by sex wants another man's wife,
(874)

ਭੋਗੀ ਕਉ ਦੁਖੁ ਰੋਗ ਵਿਆਪੈ ॥
Painful diseases afflict those who are sexually promiscuous.
(1189)

Now there are other Pangtis in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee that allude to "enjoying God" and "God entering a woman's bed". These are all references to pleasure. We are all Soul Brides and God is our Husband who we so desperately want to enjoy. And Guru Sahib has the used the metaphor of a husband and a wife enjoying each other in Bed, to show that a Gursikh yearns to enjoy God. Aren't explaining these shabads "awkward" as well?

ਗਿਆਨ ਰਾਉ ਜਬ ਸੇਜੈ ਆਵੈ ਤ ਨਾਨਕ ਭੋਗੁ ਕਰੇਈ ॥੪॥੧॥੩੫॥
then, when the King of spiritual wisdom comes to her bed, He shall take her, and enjoy her. ||4||1||35||
(359)

ਕਾਇਆ ਕਾਮਣਿ ਜੇ ਕਰੀ ਭੋਗੇ ਭੋਗਣਹਾਰੁ ॥
If I surrender my body like a bride, the Enjoyer will enjoy me.

ਤਿਸੁ ਸਿਉ ਨੇਹੁ ਨ ਕੀਜਈ ਜੋ ਦੀਸੈ ਚਲਣਹਾਰੁ ॥
Do not make love with one who is just a passing show.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਰਵਹਿ ਸੋਹਾਗਣੀ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸੇਜ ਭਤਾਰੁ ॥੩॥ 
The Gurmukh is ravished like the pure and happy bride on the Bed of God, her Husband. ||3||
(21)

ਸੇਜੈ ਕੰਤੁ ਨ ਆਵਈ ਨਿਤ ਨਿਤ ਹੋਇ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥
Her Husband Lord does not come to her bed; day after day, she grows more and more miserable.
(31)

ਸੇਜ ਸੁਹਾਵੀ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗਿ ਰਵੈ ਭਗਤਿ ਭਰੇ ਭੰਡਾਰ ॥ 
Upon her beautiful and cozy bed, she enjoys the Love of her Lord. She is overflowing with the treasure of devotion.
(38)

ਨਾ ਮਾਣੇ ਸੁਖਿ ਸੇਜੜੀ ਬਿਨੁ ਪਿਰ ਬਾਦਿ ਸੀਗਾਰੁ ॥ 
She does not enjoy the pleasure of His Bed; without her Husband, her ornaments are absurd.
(58)

ਦੂਖੁ ਘਣੋ ਦੋਹਾਗਣੀ ਨਾ ਘਰਿ ਸੇਜ ਭਤਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ 
 The discarded bride suffers terrible pain; her Husband does not come to the bed of her home. ||1|
(58)

ਕਾਮਣਿ ਪਿਰੁ ਰਾਖਿਆ ਕੰਠਿ ਲਾਇ ਸਬਦੇ ਪਿਰੁ ਰਾਵੈ ਸੇਜ ਸੁਹਾਵਣਿਆ ॥੭॥
 That soul-bride keeps her Husband Lord clasped tightly to her heart, and through the Word of the Shabad, she enjoys her Husband Lord upon His Beautiful Bed. ||7||
(127)

One of the most popular Shabads sung at Akhand Keertani Jatha Rainsbhais is:

ਕਰਮਹੀਣ ਧਨ ਕਰੈ ਬਿਨੰਤੀ ਕਦਿ ਨਾਨਕ ਆਵੈ ਵਾਰੀ ॥
The unfortunate soul-bride makes this prayer: O Nanak, when will my turn come?

ਸਭਿ ਸੁਹਾਗਣਿ ਮਾਣਹਿ ਰਲੀਆ ਇਕ ਦੇਵਹੁ ਰਾਤਿ ਮੁਰਾਰੀ ॥੧॥
All the blessed soul-brides celebrate and make merry; bless me as well with a night of bliss, O Lord. ||1||
(959)

ਹਿਕ ਦੂੰ ਹਿਕਿ ਚਾੜੇ ਅਨਿਕ ਪਿਆਰੇ ਨਿਤ ਕਰਦੇ ਭੋਗ ਬਿਲਾਸਾ ॥
Each of them is more beautiful than the others; countless are His lovers, constantly enjoying bliss with Him.
(703)

All of these Shabads from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee talk about pleasure and a woman enjoying her husband Lord. These are metaphors for Gursikhs when they get Darshan of Akaal Purakh. These shabads are "awkward" to read in front of our mothers,sisters and daughters as well.

What about these shabads? Will they be "awkward" ?

ਉਤੰਗੀ ਪੈਓਹਰੀ ਗਹਿਰੀ ਗੰਭੀਰੀ ॥
O you with swollen breasts, let your consciousness become deep and profound.

ਸਸੁੜਿ ਸੁਹੀਆ ਕਿਵ ਕਰੀ ਨਿਵਣੁ ਨ ਜਾਇ ਥਣੀ ॥
O mother-in-law, how can I bow? Because of my stiff nipples, I cannot bow.

ਗਚੁ ਜਿ ਲਗਾ ਗਿੜਵੜੀ ਸਖੀਏ ਧਉਲਹਰੀ ॥
O sister, those mansions built as high as mountains

ਸੇ ਭੀ ਢਹਦੇ ਡਿਠੁ ਮੈ ਮੁੰਧ ਨ ਗਰਬੁ ਥਣੀ ॥੧॥
- I have seen them come crumbling down. O bride, do not be so proud of your nipples. ||1||
(1410)


ਕਾਮਨਿ ਚਾਹੈ ਸੁੰਦਰਿ ਭੋਗੁ ॥
The woman desires beauty and pleasure.
(1187)


Guru Gobind Singh in Sri Charitropaakhian mentions many tales of how men and women crazy with kaam have ruined their lives. Guru Sahib warned us about Sexually Transferred Diseases in Gurbani:


ਭੋਗੀ ਕਉ ਦੁਖੁ ਰੋਗ ਵਿਆਪੈ ॥
Painful diseases afflict those who are sexually promiscuous.
(1189)

Gurbani says that Kaam has ruined the lives of many people, how do we know it will not effect us?

ਕੋ ਕੋ ਨ ਬਿਗੂਤੋ ਮੈ ਕੋ ਆਹਿ ॥੧॥
Who has not been ruined by sexual desire? What am I? ||1||
(1194)

Guru Gobind Singh Jee knew that as Kalyug gets stronger and darker his Gursikhs will need to make greater efforts to stay away from the Panj Chors, especially Kaam. So he wrote Charitropaakhian. He warned us of the dangers in indulging in Kaam. It destroys any Punn, i.e. good deeds you do and leads you to hell:

ਹੇ ਕਾਮੰ ਨਰਕ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮੰ ਬਹੁ ਜੋਨੀ ਭ੍ਰਮਾਵਣਹ ॥
O sexual desire, you lead the mortals to hell; you make them wander in reincarnation through countless species.
(1358)

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee in Charitropaakhian mentions the same Sikhia in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee, but he goes into more detail when mentioning how Kaam has ruined lives. Here are some lines from Charitropaakhian where Guru Sahib warns us about having relations with Par Naree (a woman other than your wife):

ਜੋ ਤੁਮ ਸੌ ਹਿਤ ਕਰੇ ਨਾ ਤੁਮ ਤਿਨ ਸੋ ਕਰੋ। ਜੋ ਤੁਮਰੇ ਰਸ ਢਰੇ, ਨ ਤਿਹ ਰਸ ਤੁਮ ਢਰੋ। 
If Parayee woman (not your own woman) loves you, you should not return her love. If she becomes intoxicated in your love, you should not do the same towards her.

ਕੋਟ ਕਸਟ ਸਯਾਨੇ ਸਹਹਿ, ਕੈਸੋ ਦਹੈ ਅਨੰਗ। ਨੈਕ ਨੇਹ ਨਹਿ ਕੀਜਿਯੈ, ਤਊ ਤਰੁਨਿ ਕੇ ਸੰਗ। 
No matter how much wise people warn you about facing difficulties, no matter how much Kaam (sexual urge) burns you, still you should never commit fornication (have sexual contact) with Parayee woman (woman not your own wife).

ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਕੈਸਿਯੈ ਤਨ ਬਢੈ, ਕਸਟ ਕੈਸਹੂ ਹੋਇ। ਤਊ ਤਰੁਨਿ ਸੋ ਦੋਸਤੀ, ਭੂਲਿ ਨ ਕਰਿਯਹੁ ਕੋਇ।

No matter how much love Paraayee woman expresses, no matter how much she tortures you, still even in your dreams don't do friendship with her.

ਸੁਧ ਜਬ ਤੇ ਹਮ ਧਰੀ ਬਚਨ ਗੁਰ ਦਏ ਹਮਾਰੇ ॥ ਪੂਤ ਇਹੈ ਪ੍ਰਨ ਤੋਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਾਨ ਜਬ ਲਗ ਘਟ ਥਾਰੇ ॥
When I came to a mature age my Guru told me; Son, remember these teachings for the rest of your life:
ਨਿਜ ਨਾਰੀ ਕੇ ਸੰਗ ਨੇਹ ਤੁਮ ਨਿੱਤ ਬਢੈਯਹੁ ॥ਪਰਨਾਰੀ ਕੀ ਸੇਜ ਭੂਲਿ ਸੁਪਨੇ ਹੂੰ ਨ ਜੈਯਹੁ ॥੫੧॥
Love and care for your wife daily, but never even in your dreams go into the bed of another woman.

ਅਧਿਕ ਹਰੀਫੀ ਜਾਨਿ ਭੋਗ ਪਰਤ੍ਰਿਯਾ ਜੂ ਕਰਹੀ ॥ਹੋ ਅੰਤ ਸ੍ਵਾਨ ਕੀ ਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਹਾਥ ਲੇਂਡੀ ਕੇ ਮਰਹੀ ॥53॥
Those that have sexual relations with someone other than their spouse, they die the death of a dog.


Kaam is a big issue and needs to be dealt with. Just because it makes us feel a little awkward does not mean we shove it under the carpet and ignore anywhere Guru Sahib has talked about it in Gurbani. It is easy to shove the Charitars under the carpet and say "Guru Sahib would never write anything like that", but what about all the countless times Guru Sahib talks about Kaam and indulging in pleasure in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee? Can we say Guru Sahib would never write anything like that for bani in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee? Can we call it "dirty" and "kanjar kavita" ? Charitrpaakhian is Bani and was written by Guru Sahib for the betterment of the Khalsa Panth.

Starting of Charitropaakhian from an old Saroop of Sri Dasam Granth

Puratan Jatha and Sri Dasam Granth

The Akhand Keertani Jatha and  Sri Dasam Granth

A Saroop of Sri Dasam Granth at the start of Chandee Dee Vaar

If one reads Jail Chittian, there is mention of Bhai Sahib`s companions in Jail reading Dasam Bani:

ਕਈ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਤਾਂ ਸਮੁਚੀ ਪੰਜ ਗ੍ਰੰਥੀ ਹੀ ਕੰਠ ਕਰ ਲਈ। ਅਕਾਲ ਉਸਤਿਤ ਨੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਕਾਲ ਜੀ ਕੀ ਉਸਤਿਤ ਬਚਿਤਰ ਨਾਟਕ ਵਿਚੋਂ ਬਹੁਤਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਕੰਠ ਹੋ ਗਈ।

“Some of my beloved companions had memorised the entire Panj Granthi. Many had also memorised Sri Akaal Ustat and Bachittar Natak.”

Furthermore:

ਫੁਨੇਹ, ਸੁਖਮਨੀ ਸਾਹਿਬ,  ਸੁਖਮਨਾ  ਸਾਹਿਬ, ਬਾਵਨ ਅਖਰੀ, ਅਕਾਲ ਉਸਤਤ ਆਦਿਕ ਬਾਣੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਪਾਠਾਂ ਦੇ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਰੋਤ ਆਨੰਦ ਮੰਗਲ ਹੋਣੇ।

Banis that were recited daily by Bhai Sahib and his Companions in jail include (but are not limited to) Funhe, Sukhmani Sahib, Sukhmana Sahib, Baavan Akhree, and Akaal Ustat.

This proves the fact that Bhai Sahib not only believed in these Bania, but encouraged his companions to recite them daily.

Further evidence can be found in Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh`s writings. Anyone that has ever read at least one of Bhai Sahib`s books knows that Bhai Sahib quoted heavily from Sri Dasam Granth. 

There are those that mention that Bhai Sahib believed in the Banis that support “Gurmat” but never supported those Bania in Sri Dasam Granth Sahib that are full of “Manmat” and “Bahmanvaad”. However Bhai Sahib in his writings has quoted from the following Bania from Sri Dasam Granth:

Bachittar Natak,Brahma Avtaar,Shabad Hazare P 10,Chandee Dee Vaar,Akaal Ustat,Rama Avtaar,Krishan Avtaar,Shastar Naam Mala,Giaan Parbodh,Charitaropakhiaan (Chaupai Sahib),Zafarnamah,Sarbloh Granth,Uggardanti.

Showing us that Bhai Sahib believed in the entirety of Sri Dasam Granth Sahib and not just a select few Bania. In the following excerpt from Gurmat Lekh Bhai Sahib clearly states that those that doubt the authenticity of Sri Dasam Bani are mistaken.

“In Bachittar Natak from Pauri 93-95 and in Sri Akaal Ustat from Pauri 211-230 of the Deeragh Tribhangee Chhand (ਦੀਰਘ ਤ੍ਰਿਭੰਗੀ ਛੰਦ) there is mention of demons being destroyed by Avtaars. This is all through the power of Akaal Purakh. But those that have doubts believe that the lines from Bachittar Natak are in line with Gurmat and are thus Mukhvaak, but they believe that the lines from Akaal Ustat are contrary to Gurmat so they do not believe them to be Mukhvaak. But this is all their misunderstanding (i.e. it is all Mukhvaak Bani), which we have cleared up above.”
(-Gurmat Lekh-Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh, pg:72-74.)

Puratan Akhand Paat Sahibs: Jap Jee Sahib with Sri Akhand Paat Sahib

 Jap Jee Sahib with Sri Akhand Paat Sahib: Puratan Akhand Paat Sahibs during Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh’s life.

During Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh Jee’s time Sri Jap Jee Sahib raul was kept from time to time. It was not considered manmat as it is nowadays. Bhai Jodh Singh who was a companion of Bhai Sahib’s writes in his book Soan Chiree Charee Gain, that Jap Jee Sahib was occasionally kept with Sri Akhand Paat Sahib.

Rough translation of above excerpt:

Jap Jee Sahib Paat with Sri Akhand Paat Sahib was kept and was part of Maryada.
Akhand Paat Sahib and Jap Jee Sahib Paatis should be tyaar bar tyaar with Full ishnaan (including Kes) and should wear clean clothes. Akhand Paatis should stay in the same house where the Paat is happening.

Another excerpt:

Some rare Akhand Paats had Jap Jee Sahib with them as well. Kumbh was kept too but coconut was not, it is wrong to keep coconut.  During the night keeping a jot of pure butter is too considered necessary to have light for paatis to read.

When asked about keeping Jap Jee Sahib Bhai Sahib said this tradition has been coming down from olden days and has not stopped.

The Paatis for Sri Jap Jee Sahib need to be Soojvaan, they need to start and end Jap Jee Sahib at the same time as the Akhand Paat starts and ends. During Bhog they need to time the reading of Jap Jee Sahib so it ends perfectly with the Sri Akhand Paat Sahib.

Bhai Sahib is his book Unditti Dunia writes: With Complete Gurmat tradition the Akhand Paatis and Jap Jee Sahib Paatis who were tyaar bar tyaar in their rehat and behat did full ishanaan (including kes). They wore fresh Bana and Dastars and the Akhand Paat Sahib started. Its start, middle and end were successfully completed”.

From this it should be concluded that the Jatha during Bhai Sahib’s time did from time to time keep Sri Jap Jee Sahib with Sri Akhand Paat Sahibs. Bhai Sahib himself has written about it happening. It should not be considered manmat if it is kept, and an Akhand Paat Sahib should not be considered incomplete if Sri Jap Jee Sahib is not kept.

Panj Kakkar

ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥

Panj Kakkar
ਕਛ ਕੜਾ ਕਿਰਪਾਨ ਕੰਘਾ ਕੇਸਕੀ, ਇਹ ਪੰਜ ਕਕਾਰੀ ਰਹਿਤ ਧਾਰੇ ਸਿਖ ਸੋਈ ।

   Kashehra

   The Kashehra is a sign of a strictly disciplined lifestyle. The Kashehra always reminds us to:
ਦੇਖਿ ਪਰਾਈਆਂ ਚੰਗੀਆਂ ਮਾਵਾਂ ਭੈਣਾ ਧੀਆਂ ਜਾਣੈ 
    To look at other women(by age) as either mothers, sisters or daughters.(Vice Versa for women)

ਪਰ ਤ੍ਰਿਅ ਰੂਪੁ ਨ ਪੇਖੈ ਨੇਤ੍ਰ ॥
To never look at the beauty of anothers wife.

   Never let the Kashehra separate from your body. It should only be removed one leg at a      time. If both legs are taken out (it is removed from your body) then get five Rehat Valai       Singhs to do ardaas for you and give you Tankha (Punishment). (Sant Gurbachan Singh recommends that the Tankha should be at least 5 Jap Jee Sahibs)

 ਕੱਛ ਦੇ ਪਉਂਚੇ ਦਾ ਸਿਖ ਵਿਸਾਹ ਨਾ ਕਰੇ।
A Sikh should never be separated from a Kashera.
( Rehatnama Bhai Chaupa Singh Jee, Page 108)

ਕੱਛ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾਨ ਨ ਕਬਹੂ ਤਿਆਗੈ।…।15।
A Sikh should never be separated from his or herKashera and Kirpan
(Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh Jee, Page 147)

 Some people ask what is the use of a brake Kashehra (Kashehra that is tight around the knee area), why can't we use other cloths, underwear etc. ?
 Just like anything that moves, be it an air plane a car or even a bike it needs brakes. Our body needs brakes as well. When a car is moving it needs to stop at a red light otherwise it will get into an accident and the driver will either die or be severely injured. In the same way for a Man a woman (other than his wife) is like that red light, he will have to stop himself, from having any bad thoughts and or bad relations with the woman. And Vice Versa for women.

ਏਕਾ ਨਾਰੀ ਜਤੀ ਹਇ ਪਰ ਨਾਰੀ ਧੀ ਭੈਣ ਵਖਾਣੈ।
                 Having one women as wife he (the Sikh) is a celibate and considers any other's wife his daughter or a sister. (Vice versa for women)
(Vaar 6, Pauri 8)

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee does not stop us from loving our wives. He tells us to love our wives, but to have only physical relations with your one wife only. Guru Jee tells us do not go into the bed of another woman even in your dreams!

ਨਿਜ ਨਾਰੀ ਕੇ ਸਾਥ ਨੇਹੁ ਤੁਮ ਨਿੱਤ ਬਢੈਯਹੁ ॥
ਪਰ ਨਾਰੀ ਕੀ ਸੇਜ ਭੂਲਿ ਸੁਪਨੇ ਹੂੰ ਨ ਜੈਯਹੁ ॥
Have physical relations with your wife only,
but never even in your dreams go to the bed of another woman.
(-Charitropaakhian, Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 842)

Those that don`t understand what Guru Jee says about this concept (they don't follow it), and they live life without brakes, they will die the death of a dog:

ਅਧਿ ਹਰੀਫੀ ਜਾਨਿ ਭੋਗ ਪਰ ਤ੍ਰਿਯ ਜੋ ਕਰਹੀ ॥
ਹੋ ਅੰਤ ਸ੍ਵਾਨ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਹਾਥ ਲੇਂਡੀ ਕੇ ਹਰਹੀ ॥
Those who have physical relations with other women
at the end they will die the death of a dog.
(-Charitropaakhian, Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 842)

The Kashehra is very important for a Sikhs way of life. It is of utmost importance that we keep this rehat.

   Kara

Kar means to control, to keep within maryada. Wear a Sarbloh Kara. Do not wear a Gold or Silver Kara as Guru Gobind Singh Jee has not accepted this:

ਸਰਬ ਲੋਹ ਦੀ ਰਛਿਆ ਹਮਨੈ ॥
Sarbloh (Symbol of All-Powerful Lord) is Our Protection.
( Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 11)

The Kara also protects the arms from attacks from swords. Science states that as the Kara rubs against our skin over and over again it provides us with iron, and gives us strength. The Kara reminds us that these arms are the arms of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee, and we should not steal, should not sign fake signatures and should not do any evil deeds. Never commit any sins, never kill innocent lives, only do good with these arms. With these arms earn an honest living and share whatever you earn. Serve your country and religion. Guru Sahib has blessed us with this Shaheedi Gana, it should never be separated from the body.

   Kirpan

The word Kirpan comes from Kirpa and Aan. Kirpa means to protect the poor, innocent and those that cannot protect themselves. Aan means honour and respect. Whilst keeping your honour, never hurt innocent people. Always remember death, with a Kirpan by your side. The Kirpan is like a shield that will protect you. It is like a sword when you use it to protect the poor and innocent. Meaning never use it for personal gain, whenever you use it, it is either to protect yourself, or to protect others that cannot protect themselves. Always keep the Kirpan in a Gatra, and never let it separate from your body. It Is Akaal Purakhs Shastar.
Asket, Kharagkhet, Asiduj all are God's names:

ਖੜਗਕੇਤ ਮੈ ਸਰਣਿ ਤਿਹਾਰੀ ॥
ਆਪ ਹਾਥ ਦੈ ਲੇਹੁ ਉਬਾਰੀ॥
O Immortal Being (with the sword on Your Banner)!
 I am under Your protection. Give me Your hand and save me.
(Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 1388)

ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾਣ ਪਾਣ ਧਾਰੀਅੰ॥
ਕਰੋਰ ਪਾਪ ਟਾਰੀਅੰ॥
He is equipped with a sword in one hand
 Which eliminates myriads of sins.
( Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 101)

The Kirpan eradicates millions of sins. Always keep it with you. When a child is born some people put a Kirpan on its bed to protect it from Jantar Mantars. But in the Guroo Ghar, reading Gurbani does this for us:

ਤੰਤੁ ਮੰਤੁ ਨਹ ਜੋਹਈ ਤਿਤੁ ਚਾਖੁ ਨ ਲਾਗੈ ॥੧॥ਰਹਾਉ ॥
He is not affected by charms and spells, nor is he harmed by the evil eye. ||1||Pause||
(Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee, Ang 818)

But taking in to consideration, having a Kirpan on you for your whole life is very virtuous. It protects us even while we sleep. It protects us from our enemies. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee had so much love, respect and devotion towards Shastars, in their Bani, they write:

ਅਸ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾਨ ਖੰਡੋ ਖੜਗ ਤੁਪਕ ਤਬਰ ਅਰੁ ਤੀਰ ॥
ਸੈ ਸਰੋਹੀ ਸੈਥੀ ਯਹੈ ਹਮਾਰੈ ਪੀਰ॥੩॥
( Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee,717)

Maharaj Jee used to say that, the Kirpan is my Chandi which will take care of us in this world and the next. Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Jee, wore two Kirpans, Miri and Piri. Even Bab Buddha Jee wore a Kirpan at such an old age. The 7th 8th and 9th Gurus all wore Kirpans. The Kirpan Should be atleast 9 inches. Nowadays people keep their Kirpans in their Kes, or around their neck with a string, but this is not Guru Jee's Maryada, it is Manmat. The Kirpan isn't just for showing off, it is a great shastar. We should respect the Kirpan as much as we can.

ਬਿਨਾ ਸ਼ਸਤ੍ਰ ਕੇਸੰ ਨਰੰ ਭੇਡ ਜਾਨੋ।
ਗਹੇ ਕਾਨ ਤਾਂਕੋ ਕਿਤੈ ਲੈ ਸਿਧਾਨੋ॥99॥
Without Shastars and Kes one is a Sheep,
grabbing hold of a sheeps ear, you can lead it wherever you want.
(Gur Bilas Patshahi 10, Bhai Sukha Singh Adhiya 23 Page 492)

ਤ੍ਰਿਭੰਗੀ ਛੰਦ ॥
ਖਗ ਖੰਡ ਬਿਹੰਡੰ ਖਲ ਦਲ ਖੰਡੰ ਅਤਿ ਰਣ ਮੰਡੰ ਬਰ ਬੰਡੰ ॥
ਭੁਜ ਦੰਡ ਅਖੰਡੰ ਤੇਜ ਪ੍ਰਚੰਡੰ ਜੋਤਿ ਅਮੰਡੰ ਭਾਨ ਪ੍ਰਭੰ ॥
ਸੁਖ ਸੰਤਾ ਕਰਣੰ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਦਰਣੰ ਕਿਲਬਿਖ ਹਰਣੰ ਅਸਿ ਸਰਣੰ ॥
ਜੈ ਜੈ ਜਗ ਕਾਰਣ ਸ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਉਬਾਰਣ ਮਮ ਪ੍ਰਤਿਪਾਰਣ ਜੈ ਤੇਗੰ ॥੨ ॥
The sword hacks and breaks ruthlessly into pieces and fragments the hordes of fools. This vigorous (weapon) adorns the battlefield.
Its long (forceful) arm is unbreakable. Its awesome splendour overshadows the lustre of the Sun.
It looks after the welfare of the Saints and pulverises the wicked. It destroys the sins and I seek Its refuge.
Hail, hail to the Creator of the world, the Saviour of
 the creation. My protector Scimitar, hail to Thee.
( Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Jee, 39)

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee says:
ਸੰਗਤ ਹਥੀਆਰ ਬੰਨ ਕੇ ਦਰਸਨ ਆਵਣਾ।
ਜੋ ਸਿਖ ਹਥੀਆਰ ਬੰਧਿਕੈ ਦਰਸਨਿ ਆਵੈਗਾ, ਸੋ ਨਿਹਾਲ ਹੋਗੁ। ਹੁਕਮ ਹੈ।
Whenever Sangat comes to meet me (Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee)
(Rehatnami Payara Singh Padam, Page 26)

So we should give the Kirpan as much respect as possible. Never walk over a Kirpan and other Shastars. Whilst taking a Kesi Ishnaan tie the Kirpan with a kamarakasa, and while taking a Body Ishnaan tie the Kirpan around your head. Never use the Kirpan to cut any fruits or vegetables, or use it for any other means other than doing Bhog to Karah Prashad and Langar, and to Destroy Demons, to protect yourself and others, always in defence.

   Kanga

To keep the Kes clean, a wooden Kanga should be kept in the Kes, it is very important to do so. According to Science keeping a wooden comb in your hair will eliminate static electricity. Do not use a metal kanga or one made out of animal teeth or plastic. Just a wooden Kanga. To keep the Kes clean, we must always use the Kanga twice a day to comb our hair:
ਸੋਰਠਾ। ਕੰਘਾ ਦੋਨਉਂ ਵਕਤ ਕਰ, ਪਾਗ ਚੁਨਹਿ ਕਰ ਬਾਧਈ।…।੧੩।
A Gursikh should comb his/her hair twice a day with a Kanga and retie their dastar, one fold at a time.
 (Tankahnama Bhai Nand Lal Jee, Page 57)

ਕੰਘਾ ਕਰਦ ਦਸਤਾਰ ਸਜਾਵੈ। 
...A Sikh has a Kanga, Kirpan and ties a Dastar.
(Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh Jee, Page 151)

So in the morning and evening comb your hair. And when tying a dastaar make sure you tie and remove it one Larr (fold) at a time, do not remove it like a hat. Always keep the Kanga prefect, even if one tooth of the Kanga breaks then get a new one.


ਸਾਬਤ ਸੂਰਤ ਸਿਧਾ ਦਾਹੜਾ। ਕਾਠ ਦਾ ਕੰਘਾ ਕੇਸੀਂ ਚਾਹੜਾ।
One should leave all hair on the body untouched, and have a beautiful flowing beard. A wodden kanga should be kept in the Hair.

The dastar should be tied tightly so the kanga does not fall out. If it does fall out, and is lost get a new one and do Ardaas and Jap Jee Sahib to Guru Jee asking for forgiveness. Only after doing Ardaas and Jap Jee Sahib should water or langar be eaten. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee got happy with the sacrifice that Peer Budhoo Shah had given (his sons had gotten shaheed in a war), that he gave him his Kanga and some Kes(the Kes were in the Kanga) When Gursikhs comb their hair and remove dead hairs, they should be thinking what Good deeds have I done today and what bad deeds have I done? Just as the dead hair is removed, Gursikhs should strive to remove their bad deeds.

   Keski

The fifth Kakkar is Keski. It is the rehat of the Khalsa to always have their head covered. The Keski is to protect and keep the Kes clean. It is not befitting of a Sikh to keep his or her hair uncovered, so for that reason a Keski must always be worn.

ਸਾਬਤ ਸੂਰਤਿ ਦਸਤਾਰ ਸਿਰਾ 
(Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee Ang 1084)

Gurbani tells us to always have a dastar on our head, for men and women. There is no discrimination in Sikhi based on Gender, whatever men do women also do. If a man is told to refrain from eating meat and drinking alcohol so is a woman. If a man is told to wear a dastar so is a woman. So all the Rehats that are given to a Sikh, are meant for both men and women, not just men. The rehat of Keski was given to both men and women, and it is the duty of a Sikh to follow the Orders of his or her Guru.

Guru Nanak Dev Jee and the rest of the Gurus gave women equal status in a society that saw women as a burden. Guru Nanak Dev Jee said:

ਮਃ ੧ ॥
First Mehl:
ਭੰਡਿ ਜੰਮੀਐ ਭੰਡਿ ਨਿੰਮੀਐ ਭੰਡਿ ਮੰਗਣੁ ਵੀਆਹੁ ॥
From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married.
ਭੰਡਹੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਦੋਸਤੀ ਭੰਡਹੁ ਚਲੈ ਰਾਹੁ ॥
Woman becomes his friend; through woman, the future generations come.
ਭੰਡੁ ਮੁਆ ਭੰਡੁ ਭਾਲੀਐ ਭੰਡਿ ਹੋਵੈ ਬੰਧਾਨੁ ॥
When his woman dies, he seeks another woman; to woman he is bound.
ਸੋ ਕਿਉ ਮੰਦਾ ਆਖੀਐ ਜਿਤੁ ਜੰਮਹਿ ਰਾਜਾਨ ॥
So why call her bad? From her, kings are born.
ਭੰਡਹੁ ਹੀ ਭੰਡੁ ਊਪਜੈ ਭੰਡੈ ਬਾਝੁ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be no one at all.
ਨਾਨਕ ਭੰਡੈ ਬਾਹਰਾ ਏਕੋ ਸਚਾ ਸੋਇ ॥
O Nanak, only the True Lord is without a woman.
ਜਿਤੁ ਮੁਖਿ ਸਦਾ ਸਾਲਾਹੀਐ ਭਾਗਾ ਰਤੀ ਚਾਰਿ ॥
That mouth which praises the Lord continually is blessed and beautiful.
ਨਾਨਕ ਤੇ ਮੁਖ ਊਜਲੇ ਤਿਤੁ ਸਚੈ ਦਰਬਾਰਿ ॥੨॥
O Nanak, those faces shall be radiant in the Court of the True Lord. ||2||


That Guru that has praised women and put them at the same level as men, why would he then later discriminate against them and only require men to wear dastars? Our Guru would never do such a thing. Sikhi is against any sort of discrimination, whatever men are expected to do, women are expected to do as well. Whatever right men have, women have the same right!

ਅਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਛਕਨੇ ਵਾਲੇ ਨੂੰ ਪਹਿਲੇ ਕਚ ਪਿਹਰਾਨੀ,
ਕੇਸ ਇਕਠੇ ਇਕੱਠੇ ਕਰ ਜੂੜਾ ਦਸਤਾਰ ਸਜਵਾਨੀ,
ਗਤ੍ਰੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਹਾਥ ਜੋੜ ਖੜਾ ਰਹੇ ।।
Those who wish to take amrit, first they should wear a Kashera,
then gather their hair and make a Joora(top-knot) and tie a Dastar,
and wear a Kirpan (Sri Sahib) in a gatra and stand with their hands folded.
(Rehatnama Bhai Daya Singh Jee)

ਜੂੜਾ ਸੀਸ ਕੇ ਮਧ ਭਾਗ ਮੈਂ ਰਾਖੈ, ਔਰ ਪਾਗ ਬੜੀ ਬਾਂਧੈ,
Tie a Joora (top-knot) on your head, and tie a Dastar.
(Rehatnama Bhai Daya Singh Jee)

ਪੁਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਉਨ ਸਿਚਯਾ ਦਈ।।
ਮੀਣੇ ਮਸੰਦਨ ਬਰਤਯੋ ਨਹੀ।।
ਕੁੜੀਮਾਰ ਰਮਰਈ ਨੜੀਮਾਰ।।
ਜੋ ਇਨ ਮਿਲੇ ਸੋ ਹੋਇ ਖ੍ਵਾਰ।।
ਜਥਾ ਸਕਤ ਗੁਰ ਗੋਲਕ ਪਾਯੋ।।
ਕੜਾਹ ਕਰਾਇ ਖਾਲਸੇ ਛਕਾਯੋ।।
ਪਹਿਰ ਕਛਹਿਰੇ ਸਿਰ ਬੰਧਯੋ ਪਾਗ।।
ਗੁਰ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਬਚਨ ਪਰ ਰਹਯੋ ਲਾਗ।।
Guru Jee gave us these teachings:
Do no have any association with Meene( followers of Prithi Chand) and Masands.
Those that kill their daughters, those that Follow Ram Rai, and those that smoke and use intoxicants, whoever associates with them will be ruined.
Put money in the Guru's Golak.
Make or get Karah Parshad made and feed it to the Khalsa.
Wear a Kashera and on your head tie a Dastar.
Follow the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee
(Gur Panth Parkash, Bhai Rattan Singh Jee Bhangoo)

ਦੋਇ ਵੇਲੇ ਉਟ ਬੰਧਯੋ ਦਸਤਾਰੰ।।
At both times tie a dastar
(Gur Panth Parkash, Bhai Rattan Singh Jee Bhangoo)

ਜੋ ਅਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਛਕਿਆ ਚਾਹੈ, ਕਛ ਪਿਹਰਾਵੈ।।
ਕੇਸ ਇਕੱਠੇ ਕਰਿ ਜੂੜਾ ਕਰੇ।। ਦਸਤਾਰ ਸਜਾਵੈ।।
Those who wish to take amrit, should wear a Kashera,
they should tie up their hair and make a Joora (top-knot), they should tie a dastar.
(Sudharm Maarg Granth)

ਪਾਗ ਉਤਾਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦ ਜੋ ਪਾਵੈ।।
ਸੋ ਸਿਖ ਕੁੰਭੀ ਨਰਕ ਸਿਧਾਵੈ।।
That Sikh that eats with no dastar on their head, will go to Hell.
(Rehatnama Bhai Prehlad Singh Jee)

ਕੰਗਾ ਦੋਨੋਂ ਵਕਤ ਕਰ, ਪਾਗ ਚੁਨੇ ਕਰ ਬਾਂਧਈ।।
A Gursikhs should comb his/her hair twice a day with a Kanga and retie their dastar, one fold at a time.
(Tankhah Nama Bhai Nand Lal Jee)

ਕੰਘਾ ਕਰਦ ਦਸਤਾਰਹਿ ਬਾਂਧੇ ।।
...A Sikh has a Kanga, Kirpan and ties a Dastar.
(Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh Jee)

These lines from Rehatname clearly show that a Gursikh can never be separated from a dastar. It is Guru Sahibs Hukam that we wear a dastar. These five Kakkars must never leave our Body. Kashehra, Kirpan, Kara, Kanga and Keski. If they do you cannot eat or drink anything until you have done ardaas and asked Guru Jee for forgiveness.

Puratan Rainsbhais

Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh Jee would start off the Rainsbhai with:

1) ਸੇਵੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਆਪਣਾ ਹਰਿ ਸਿਮਰੀ ਦਿਨ ਸਭਿ ਰੈਣ ॥  (136)

2) ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਗਿ ਰਹੇ ਦਿਨ ਰਾਤੀ ॥  (1024)

3) ਹਰਿ ਉਤਮੁ ਹਰਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਗਾਵਿਆ ਕਰਿ ਨਾਦੁ ਬਿਲਾਵਲੁ ਰਾਗੁ ॥  (849)

4) ਜਾਗਨਾ ਜਾਗਨੁ ਨੀਕਾ ਹਰਿ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਮਹਿ ਜਾਗਨਾ ॥  (1018)

5) ਭਿੰਨੀ ਰੈਨੜੀਐ ਚਾਮਕਨਿ ਤਾਰੇ ॥  (459)

Other Shabads sung:

1) ਵਧੁ ਸੁਖੁ ਰੈਨੜੀਏ ਪ੍ਰਿਅ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੁ ਲਗਾ ॥ਘਟੁ ਦੁਖ ਨੀਦੜੀਏ ਪਰਸਉ ਸਦਾ ਪਗਾ ॥  (544)

2) ਜਾਗੁ ਸਲੋਨੜੀਏ ਬੋਲੈ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਰਾਮ ॥  (844)

3) ਸਿਆਮ ਸੁੰਦਰ ਤਜਿ ਨੀਦ ਕਿਉ ਆਈ ॥  (745)

4) ਹਮਰਾ ਠਾਕੁਰੁ ਸਭ ਤੇ ਊਚਾ ਰੈਣਿ ਦਿਨਸੁ ਤਿਸੁ ਗਾਵਉ ਰੇ ॥  (404)

5) ਮੇਰੀ ਸੇਜੜੀਐ ਆਡੰਬਰੁ ਬਣਿਆ ॥  (459)

Dasam Bani:

1) ਚੁਭੀ ਰਹੀ ਸ੍ਰੁਤਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਚਰਨਨ ਮਹ ॥

2) ਹਮ ਏਹ ਕਾਜ ਜਗਤ ਮੋ ਆਏ ॥

3) ਤਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ ਹਮਾਰਾ ਭਯੋ ॥ ਪਟਨਾ ਸਹਰ ਬਿਖੈ ਭਵ ਲਯੋ ॥

Bhai Gurdas Jee and Bhai Nand Laal Singh:

1) ਵਾਹ ਵਾਹ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਆਪੇ ਗੁਰੁ ਚੇਲਾ ॥

2) ਸ਼ਾਹਿ ਸ਼ਾਹਨਸ਼ਾਹ ਗੁਰੁ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ॥

3) ਦੀਨ ਦੁਨੀਆਂ ਦਰ ਕਮੰਦੇ ਆ ਪਰੀ ਰੁਖਸਾਰਿ ਮਾ

Bhog Vale Shabad:

1) ਮਨ ਕਿਉ ਬੈਰਾਗੁ ਕਰਹਿਗਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਪੂਰਾ ॥  (375)

2) ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਹੋਆ ਰੈਣਿ ਸਬਾਈ॥ (Bhai Gurdas Jee)

3) ਇਹ ਸੂਖਿ ਬਿਹਾਨੀ ਰਾਤੇ । (Bhai Gurdas Jee)

4) ਮਾਈ ਮੋਹਿ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮੁ ਦੇਹੁ ਮਿਲਾਈ ॥  (1267)

5) ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਗਿ ਰਹੇ ਚੂਕੀ ਅਭਿਮਾਨੀ ਰਾਮ ॥  (1111)

6) ਮੋਹਿ ਗਇਆ ਬੈਰਾਗੀ ਜੋਗੀ  (907)

7) ਤਿਨ ਘੋਲਿ ਘੁਮਾਈ ਜਿਨ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਸ੍ਰਵਣੀ ਸੁਣਿਆ ਰਾਮ ॥  (577)