QUESTIONS & ANSWERS -II by Baba Kehar Singh Ji

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS PART-2 (SHANKA-ASHANKA 2)

QUESTIONS & LETTERS FROM SATSANGIS & SEEKERS ANSWERED BY

SANT BABA KEHAR SINGH JI

RADHA SOAMI TARN TARAN

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Questions & Answers Part 2

Questions & Answers Part 2 (Questions and letters from Satsangis and seekers)

Published by: Balwinder Singh, Secretary

© Radha Soami Dera Baba Bagga Singh Railway Road, Tarn Taran 143401 Dist. Tarn Taran, Punjab, India +91-01852-222042,226472,226743 www.rstt.org.in (All right reserved)

First Edition : Feb 2012

Printing by: IMPRESSION PRINTS Faridabad 192 II

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji

Radha Soami

Being foolish, I do not know the secrets Of my Satguru’s utterances. He helps me to perceive the Mysteries of Par Brahm Who can estimate His value? Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji

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Brief Introduction: Radha Soami Dera Baba Bagga Singh Tarn Taran, Punjab, India Tarn Taran is a district of Punjab. It is 35 kilometers away from the Raja Sansi International Airport and 23 kilometers from Amritsar. Dera Baba Bagga Singh is situated near the head post office at a distance of 300 meters from railway station Tarn Taran. Saints come to the world to liberate Human Beings at different times. Seth Shiv Dayal Ji (Swami Ji) gave the name ‘Radha Soami’ to the traditional Santmat. He was born on August 25, 1818 and was initiated by Tulsi Sahib at the age of six. Baba Jaimal Singh Ji was his most prominent disciple. He was born in July 1839 in village Lath Ghuman in district Gurdaspur. His mother was Mata Daya Kaur and his father’s name was Mr. Jodh Singh, who was an agriculture farm owner. From his very childhood he had a very gentle nature. At the age of fourteen and a half, with the permission of his mother, he started visiting religious places seeking God Realization. One day he came to know about Swami Ji and went to attend his satsang. He was convinced by Swami Ji’s satsang, and attained Nam Dan from him in 1856. In 1891 he constructed a hut in village Balsarai and started living there and giving satsang and initiation. That very Dera is famous all the world over by the name Radha Soami Satsang Beas. 194 IV

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The founder of Radha Soami Dera Tarn Taran, Baba Bagga Singh, was born on May 15, 1864 in village Chuslevar, Tehsil, Kasur, District Lahore (now in Pakistan). His father was Sardar Savan Singh and his mother’s name was Sardani Shobhi. He joined the Indian Army on March 20, 1882. He went to Multan Cantonment with other men of the army. While receiving his uniform he met Baba Jaimal Singh Ji. He qualified for the recruitment test in November 1882. Along with two other persons he received Nam Dan on August 1, 1883. He went on reserve duty on December 21, 1889 and began living in a hut on the bank of a pond in his village where he started giving satsang. Later he constructed a cave at that very place and kept busy in meditation day and night for nine years. By the order of Baba Jaimal Singh Ji he purchased land in February 1900 in Tarn Taran and constructed two temporary rooms there and started giving satsang. This place is now called the ‘old Dera’. Because of the increase in the sangat, the land for the present Dera was purchased and the building was constructed on Railway Road Tarn Taran. Living there he promoted Santmat. He left for his heavenly abode on July 6, 1944. After that Baba Deva Singh Ji took over as Sant Satguru. He was born in village Toot Dhahewal in Lahore, now in Pakistan, on Dec 25, 1885. Sardar Burh Singh Chahal was his father. He was initiated at the age of 14. He came to the Dera at an early age and served Baba Bagga Singh his entire life. After that Baba Pratap Singh Ji was seated on 195 V

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the Guru Gaddi. He was born on Dec. 29, 1900 in village Talavan Chandian. His mother was Mata Jawal Kaur and father was Sardar Jodh Singh. Being born in a family steeped in Santmat, he was interested in Santmat from the very beginning. He farmed, as this was his family profession. He was initiated at the age of ten by Baba Bagga Singh Ji on May 17, 1910. He would always speak of Santmat, so he became famous as Gyani Ji (The Knowledgeable). After retirement Sardar Bahadur Jagat Singh Ji went to Dera Beas, and to replace him, Baba Pratap Singh Ji continued delivering satsangs in Layalpur Center until the Indo-Pak division took place. He got blessings from both the Deras, Tarn Taran and Beas. He was the best player of Kabaddi (some what like wrestling sport). With the blessings of Baba Bagga Singh Ji, he never lost a game. He openly announced that “Should anyone defeat me, I will give him my nappy, picking him up on my shoulders I will take him around the whole grounds and thereafter stop playing Kabaddi”. But that never happened. He stopped playing on his own. Maharaj Charan Singh Ji from Dera Beas seated him on the Guru Gaddi on November 8, 1961. While bringing him to the Dera for the ceremony, Maharaj Charan Singh Ji asked, “What are your qualifications?” He replied, “I have done the four degrees of masters in the subject you want me to teach.” This shows how deep a study he did in Santmat. His family members tell that he was very well versed in Santmat. During his free time he would read books on Santmat, and would fall asleep with the books on his chest. He would again read the same book after waking up. This reflected in his satsangs. 196 VI

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He delivered satsangs in many big and small cities in India, initiated people, and managed the Dera administration very well. He left this mortal world on April 26, 1988. After that, according to his written will, Baba Kehar Singh Ji took over as Sant Satguru on May 12, 1988. He was born to Mata Thakar Kaur and Pratap Singh Ji on Dec 26, 1926 in village Chandia Talavan, district Layalpur, now in Pakistan. He studied at Khalsa College in Layalpur. He was verse reader during the satsangs of Sardar Bahadur Jagat Singh Ji and Baba Pratap Singh Ji in the Layalpur center. After the Indo-Pak partition he came to village Nagkalan, district Amritsar, and lived there with his family. He served in the railway workshop in Amritsar and retired on Dec. 31, 1982 as senior manager. He had been serving the Dera during his service, but after retirement he accompanied Baba Pratap Singh ji continually until Baba Pratap Singh Ji left this mortal world. Taking over as Sant Satguru, he came to the Dera. He observed that the sangat was increasing and there was a need to establish more centers; so he began establishing more centers in big and small cities around India. He took care of the need for literature on Santmat, and got many books published. This work is continuously progressing. Travelling abroad he initiated many seekers to unite them with God. Satsang is held in the morning as well as the evening in the Dera. Free kitchen is available 24 hours a day. Blood donation camps are held. Marriages of girls from poor families are performed at the Dera without any discrimination. Dental checkups, homeopathic, allopathic 197 VII

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and acupressure dispensaries are functioning where each person is treated free of charge. Due to Baba Ji’s able guidance, the Dera is progressing day and night.

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Publishers Note

To benefit one and all, ‘Shanke Asanka Part-1’ has been published in Punjabi, Hindi, and English. Each and every question of the Seeker and the practicioner regarding Spirituality, Bhajan Simran, the cycle of Birth and Death and the necessity of a Living Guru and importance of ‘Naamdaan’ was beautifully answered by the Present Guru. The book was highly appreciated by the readers. The queries of Satsangis and Seekers regarding Santmat and their worldly problems have been increasing day by day, so in order to help them and shed light on these questions, the present Master, Baba Kehar Singh Ji, has been very kind and generous by permitting us to print His letters and also the answers He has given in informal gatherings in this book form, which is the second part of Questions Answers. You will note that most letters are addressed ‘Son’ but the actual word used in the Punjabi and Hindi versions is ‘Beta’ which is an affectionate term towards any younger person, male or female. By the grace and guidance of Baba Kehar Singh Ji, Part 2 of Shanka Ashanka has already been published in Punjabi and Hindi and now with His blessings this English 199 IX

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version has been translated by a joint effort of Mr. Kenneth Stambler (U.S.A.), Mrs. Ria Arora, and Mr. & Mrs. Manish Ahuja. The Dera is highly graceful to them. We wish the Sangat and lovers of Santmat to be benefitted by this book.

Yours faithfully, Balwinder Singh,Secretary Radha Soami Dera Baba Bagga Singh Tarn Taran, 143401,Punjab,India.

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Q336: Babaji, if it is not possible to get our doubts cleared directly by the Guru, then what should be done? Answer: Son, it has already been explained in Satsang and in Holy Books that Guru himself is a manifestation of God. He knows everything. Pray to Him earnestly from your heart and have faith in Him. He will surely answer your prayers and give you solutions to your problems because he knows what is best for you. The problem with us is that we don’t want to do Bhajan and Simran, yet we still expect good results. Meditate and contemplate on the form of the Guru and see Him within. Once I was travelling from Tatanagar to Delhi by plane. A lady was sitting on the seat beside me. An hour after the plane took off the lady said to me, “The plane is not moving; it is standing still in the air!” I answered, “Sister, the plane is about to reach Delhi.” She again said, “No Babaji, the plane is not moving, and you say that it is going to land in Delhi shortly?” After saying this she became quiet. After a short while an announcement was made that we have reached Indira Gandhi International Airport. Coming off the plane, the lady realized that we had reached the destination. What I am trying to explain is that the Guru is always with us. We may not see him physically around us, but believe me, he is doing all your work. Once we cultivate the habit of visualizing the form of Guru within through meditation, all your doubts and questions will automatically be cleared up. Q337: Babaji, I am a Muslim. Do I have to abandon my religion in order to receive Naamdan (initiation)? The 201

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principles of my religion do not coincide with Santmat. Answer: Son, as far as the unification of the soul with the Almighty is concerned, it is not necessary to change ones religion. The essence of every religion is the same. After the Creation, we were sent into this universe merely as human beings, and we were free from the bondage of any religion. Later on, we got entangled in the beliefs of different religions. The path of Devotion to God is one. In order to achieve that destination we have adopted different rituals and methods. For example, to express their love and devotion to God, some people bow down before the rising sun, others worship the setting sun. What I want to say is that our love for the Almighty should not be bound up in rituals, customs, ceremonies or directions (bowing to the east, west, etc.). It is the [heart] reverence for Him that counts, and nothing else. I hope you have understood my answer. Nam has no relationship to any religion; nor does anybody have to abandon his religion to receive Nam. According to the principles of Radha Soami Teachings, in order to get initiated, one has only to abstain from alcohol, eggs, meat and evil deeds. Many of our Muslim brothers have received Naamdan. So prepare yourself mentally, move ahead, adopt a Guru and get initiation. Q338: Babaji, what is the meaning of spirituality? Answer: Son, our spiritual journey takes place within. It starts from the soles of our feet and ends at the top of our head. In the body the seat of the soul and mind knotted together is in the centre behind our eyes. This is called the 202

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Til, the third eye, or the single eye. Guru Nanak Dev ji and many other Saints have explained the spiritual journey during their lifetime. After being initiated by them, many had also experienced the Divine Scenes within. They have also written about their spiritual journey in sacred verses. At the time of Initiation, the True Master discloses the Five Sacred Words of Nam. He explains the repetition of these words and also the correct method and posture to do Bhajan-Simran in order to experience Divine Bliss within. Below the eyes to the soles of the feet is called Pind (Physical Body). Above the eyes up to the Sahansdal Kanwal is called And. Beyond that is Brahmand and further still is Sachkhand or the True Region. The Saints have explained that in our body, the seat of the soul and mind is at the centre behind the eyes in our conscious state. From here we have to go up. So since we are already at the eye centre, why not go up from here rather than going down to the solar plexus and then cover the arduous journey upward? We have to develop our spiritual consciousness and come to the stage where we are near to the Lord. This can be achieved only by adopting a Perfect Master. Q339: Babaji, what should be the aim or objective of our life from a ‘materialistic’ point of view? Answer: Son, in order to lead a happy and balanced life we do need material goods. We should make our best effort to earn our livelihood in the world, but one thing should always be kept in mind about worldly goods: We should possess them; they should not possess us. God has blessed us with life so we should involve ourselves in good deeds. We should practice meditation so that our soul 203

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merges into the Lord. This should be the primary motive of our life. The entire life of materialistic people is inextricably caught up in the web of Maya (illusion). We should not become a slave of worldly achievements and forget our destination, which is to tread the path of spirituality and reach our Real Home and merge into the Almighty. There is a famous saying in Punjabi ‘Bhat piya sona jo kana nu khave’ which means: ‘Adorn your ears with only that much jewelry that the ears can tolerate, without becoming painful’ or ‘Adorn your ears with only that much jewelry that doesn’t grow painful and troublesome’. Q340: Babaji, does the company of a non-satsangi lead to detachment from the Guru? Answer: Son, it is rightly said that ‘You are known by the company you keep’. You see, company has a tremendous impact on our lives. Of course it also depends upon the intensity of our relationship. So whether you are in the company of a satsangi or a non-satsangi, they will still influence you. In this context Guru Ramdas Ji has explained quite well: Do not meet with, or even approach those people, whose hearts are filled with horrible anger. Adi Granth 40

The Saints have always warned that we should forsake the company of those who indulge in evil deeds, are filled with anger, or always speak very rudely and harshly. It is emphasized that we should keep company of 204

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the devotees of God or Satguru; those who lead their lives in His Praise and according to His Will. It is fate or destiny which attaches and brings us closer to the Lord and gives us Reverence and Devotion for Him. Q341: Babaji, during meditation and simran, I invariably fall asleep and start dreaming. Sometimes I even feel I have reached the stage of meditation. I am confused. Please throw some light on the stage of sleep versus that of meditation. Answer: Son, in one’s lifetime human beings experience two states: conscious state and unconscious state. There is two types of unconscious states: Swapan Awastha (Dream State) and Sushupt Awastha (Deep Sleep). In addition to this, when a person reaches a trance state during Simran-Bhajan, it is known as Turiya Awastha. Most of our time is spent in the conscious stage. We carry on our daily routine work in this state. To reach the state of Swapan, Sushupt and Turiya one has to start with the conscious stage. In the conscious state the seat of the soul is just behind the eyes at ‘Tisra Til’. In this state we experience joy and sorrow and create new karmas. When we try to sleep, the concentration of the mind increases at the eye centre. Our sense organs and organs of action slow down and our soul naturally drops below the eye centre to the throat centre. This stage is known as ‘Swapan Awastha’. In this stage our senses are numb but our ‘attention’ keeps wandering and experiencing joys and sorrows. During sleep when our soul moves down from the throat centre to the heart centre we go into sound sleep. 205

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This stage is known as ‘Sushupt Awastha’. In this state we do not experience any happiness or sorrow, but it is for a short duration only. Swami Ji Maharaj had stated: The state of wakefulness in this world is a source of fear and pain. The state of dream, too, is full of pain and pleasure. In the state of Sushupti (deep sleep), there is some relief. But this state too is not abiding. Sar Bachan 25:2:1,2

In ‘Jagrat’ and ‘Swapan Awastha’ our vision, breath and mind are restless. In ‘Sushupt awastha’ mind is still, but breath is still going on. In ‘Jagrat Awastha’ Simran and Dhyan gives rise to ‘Dhyan Awastha’. For this, mind is concentrated between the eyes, and through Simran the Guru is visualized inside. As the concentration increases the senses start getting still and there is a feeling of drowsiness. The disciple has to be more careful and should avoid his soul going down to the throat region and try to move it upwards to the sacred regions. This is the starting of ‘Turiya awastha’. In ‘Turiya awastha’ the soul is at ‘Sahans dal Kamal’. We can manifest God not at the start of ‘Turiya Awastha’, but after reaching Satlok. Swami Ji Maharaj has stated: He graciously initiated me in the secrets, and showed the path of Turiya Pad (Sahas-dal-kanwal). He pointed out to me what lies beyond Turiya, and exhorted me to proceed further. He made me recognize higher regions and told me of what lay beyond. Sar Bachan 25:2:10-12

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Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Sat Guru now openly reveals the stages to you. Turiya Pad is in Sahas-dal-kanwal. Get across and ascend to Trikuti. Sar Bachan 25:2:18,19

In the Upanishads also it has been stated that a person alternates between ‘Jagrat’ and ‘Swapan Awastha’. During ‘Jagrat Awastha’ the mind is between the eyes and during ‘Swapan Awastha’ it is at the throat region; during ‘Sushupta Swastha’ it is at the heart region and during ‘Turiya Awastha’ it is at the forehead region. Q342: Babaji, it is stated that Guru is the Supreme Being and it is impossible for a human being to achieve unity with Him [by his own efforts]; while it is also stated that we have to take the initiative and make sincere efforts to attain this and unite with Him. How can these two statements coexist together? Answer: Son, your question can be answered very well by the Guru who has blessed you with Naamdan. You have to understand the inner meaning. Abide by your Guru’s instructions, have implicit faith in him, and do meditation; then you will get the answer to your question. We always have to work hard and make sincere efforts to achieve a goal, whether material or spiritual. Unless we make efforts and work hard, we cannot reach our destination. God helps those who help themselves. We all know that butter or ghee can be derived from milk through a process by applying effort. In the same way, through dedication and meditation we can also unite with Him. From your question it seems you are confused and dual-minded. Son, you have adopted a Guru and He alone 207

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can take you to the destination; but the initiative must come from you by sincere efforts. What I mean to say is that one should take Naamdan, practice Bhajan-Simran, and manifest the Shabad Guru within. We need a guide to take us to our True Home, and this guide is Shabad Guru. Q343: Babaji, how can we thank our Guru? Answer: Son, Guru is continuously showering Grace on us. Just uttering ‘thank you’ is not the answer, as words fall short to express our gratitude. A disciple has to unconditionally surrender himself, having blind faith in Guru and following his instructions. You can sincerely express your gratitude by doing Bhajan-Simran. Q344: Babaji, I live in America and face many difficulties performing spiritual practices. Do people residing in India face similar problems? Answer: Son, there is no difference between India and America as far as spiritual practice is concerned. Maybe you are asking about the consumption of non-vegetarian food with meditation. In India non-vegetarians face these problems also! People who have understood that the world is mortal have sacrificed and abandoned these things prohibited in Sant Mat and thus can embark upon the spiritual journey smoothly. They train themselves to lead a life according to the will of their Guru. Q345: Babaji, is there any difference between an atheist and a theist? 208

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Answer: Son, the difference between the two is that an atheist does not believe in the existence of God; whereas a theist believes in the ‘Presence of God’ and leads his life accordingly. Q346: Babaji, who is a Saint? Answer: Son, a Saint is one who has reached a certain Spiritual Land and has become one with the Lord. He remains detached from the outside world but attached within. He has withdrawn his consciousness to the eye centre. When the ‘Third Eye’ opens, Divine Light is seen. Saints come to this earth to awaken the Love of Lord within us. In the Guru Granth Sahib it is also mentioned that we should surrender at a Saint’s Feet. Wash the feet of the Holy, and drink this water. Dedicate your soul to the Holy. Take your cleansing bath in the dust of the feet of the Holy. To the Holy, make your life a sacrifice. Adi Granth 283

Q347: Babaji, what is religion? Answer: Son, religion is a set of beliefs, customs and traditions that we have inherited from our parents. We adopt the religion of the family we are born into. If we are born into a Sikh family, our religion becomes Sikhism. If someone is born in a Hindu, a Muslim, or a Christian family, they will belong to that religion. But True Religion is the unification of the soul with the Almighty. This True Religion is Supreme and free of any discrimination based upon 209

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caste, creed, culture or faith. This is the Religion of Humanity. Q348: Babaji, what is meant by ‘the Path’? Answer: Son, the Path is a Way by which we can attain our destination. Our Real Home is in Anami Desh, or the Nameless Region, which is the Abode of the Lord. We tread the Path to reach our Real Home and unite with the Lord by means of spiritual practice (Bhajan-Simran). The literal meaning of ‘Path’ is ‘road’ or ‘way.’ In Guru Granth Sahib it is referred to as ‘Marg’ which also means ‘Path’. Q349: Babaji, what is the meaning of ‘Sadhana’? Answer: Son, the meaning of Sadhana is ‘a discipline that we adopt in our life to attain our goal.’ It involves hard work, commitment and dedication. Similarly, in spirituality Sadhana is the spiritual practice and discipline by which we seek to unite with the Almighty. Q350: Babaji, I remain sick now all day. I have read in books that illness is due to our karmic account, so I have accepted illness as my destiny, and as such, avoid taking medicines. Is this the correct attitude? Answer: Son, you have answered your own question. If you have accepted illness as the will of the Lord, in like manner, to cure it is also the will of the Lord. We also should take preventive measures. We cannot justify indifference under the garb of karma. This attitude should not be there. We should not think to ourselves ‘Why should we do 210

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anything?’ (indifference) when ‘to do something’ may already be written in our destiny! We should try to do our best under all circumstances. Q351: Babaji, what should be borne in mind while giving charity of any kind? Answer: Son, first of all we have to know how needy that person really is. If monetary aid is given to a person and he uses it wrongly, then the donor has to pay for his bad deeds. We can help a hungry person by giving him food, or a needy person with some clothes; but care should be taken that the donation is not misused. The person who gives charity should also keep in mind that he should not be filled with ego, pride or arrogance while helping others. We should selflessly serve the needy. He should not speak of his charitable works, as doing so people would appreciate his work and he will be filled with pride. All of his good work will then go in vain (be spoiled). The aid or help given in the marriage of any poor man’s daughter is considered the best. Q352: Babaji, I have bought a new house. How does one inaugurate his new house or new shop? Answer: Son, in order to inaugurate a new house or shop, Satsangies should be called and ‘Prashad’ should be distributed among them. If your wife or relatives suggest some other way of inaugurating, then you may go ahead with that also. Q353: Babaji, what should we do if somebody is rude to 211

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us without any legitimate reason? Answer: Son, we should try to make him understand that he is doing something incorrect. However if he doesn’t realize, then we should leave that place (remove ourself). Q354: Babaji, please suggest how we should lead our life? Answer: Son, a Satsangi should lead a simple life full of love and affection. He should get initiated and do meditation regularly. He should also try to control his desires. If desires are under control, then he will be successful in his Bhajan-Simran and become a good Satsangi. Q355: Babaji, who is the more eminent, a mother or a Guru? Answer: Son, first of all, there should be no such comparison. That being said, if at all you are comparing then remember: a mother’s status has a great significance. She gives birth to us and makes us capable of recognizing Guru. After we get initiated from a Guru, then his status is equivalent to the Almighty, and helps us to reach the Ultimate Destination. We see Guru’s image even when we bow at the feet of our mother. Now it depends upon your personal opinion how you perceive both these aspects. Once I was taking rest at a disciple’s house. His wife was sitting beside me and her four year old daughter was sitting on her lap. Her father came from outside and after greeting me sat beside his wife. He had brought chocolates for his daughter, so she came instantly to her father. The 212

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father gave one chocolate to his daughter and at that instant the mother asked the child who she adored most between her parents. The child touched the cheeks of her father and replied that she loved her father more. After two or three minutes the child came back to her mother but she slapped her and pushed her away saying “Go to your father whom you love more.” The child fell down and started crying. I was sitting there and explained to the lady that she had asked an illegitimate question from the child. Such questions should not be asked from our children. Now please understand that there should be no comparison between parents and Guru. Q356: Babaji, what should we do if we face obstacles while doing meditation? Answer: Son, while doing meditation if the vision of Guru is lost inside, then there is a feeling of fear. The wife is frightened when she is travelling alone, but if her husband is near her, then there is no question of fear. One should always try to secure the image of Guru inside oneself. Q357: Babaji, please tell us something about selfrealization? Answer: Son, this is a commonplace word, but the real meaning is that ‘when the soul realizes the Ultimate Destination it is called Self-Realization.’ Knowledge is of many types but Self-Realization is Supreme Knowledge. It can be attained by getting initiated from Guru and doing Bhajan-Simran. 213

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Q358: Babaji, if a disciple conveys his problem to Guru but doesn’t get a reply, then what should he conclude? Answer: Son, you should accept it as the Wish of the Almighty. Guru always wants to alleviate the difficulties of his disciples. Guru is omniscient and already knows about the problems of his disciple. We should trust that the Guru understands whatever is there in our mind, and should just have the Darshan of Guru. If Guru gives any suggestion, we should follow it diligently. Maharaji will put everything right. We should accept his reply as a command. If Guru remains silent that also has its significance. Q359: Babaji, is ‘Jyoti’ and ‘Shabad’ one and the same thing? Answer: Son, ‘Jyoti’ is a Divine light which can be seen inside. Shabad is a Power which is not visible. Shabad is God. No, ‘Jyoti’ and Shabad are not same. Q360: Babaji, what is the benevolence of the Satguru? Answer: Son, the benevolence of Satguru is the Mercy of God. We cannot understand the benevolence of Satguru. When Satguru blesses us with ‘Nam’, it is one of Lord’s greatest blessings. After that, Satguru’s support in the disciple is shown by revealing His Shabad form inside one’s consciousness, and is His Great Bliss and Blessing. Q361: Babaji how many kinds of karmas are there? Please explain. 214

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Answer: Son, the theory of karma is an intricate one. It is a philosophical subject. To understand the concept of karma we need first to have the knowledge regarding the how and why of Creation, ‘Kal’ and ‘Dayal.’ Saint Kabir Sahib has explained this subject very well to his disciple Dharam Das in his book ‘Anurag Sagar’. I have given a Spiritual Discourse based upon this book. This book is available in three parts at the Dera. At the time of Creation, Kal Niranjan got a huge storehouse of souls from God, which had been given to Eka Mai. Eka Mai gave birth to three sons: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The four sources of creation (andaj, jeraj, setaj, and udbhaj) and the cycle of eighty-four were also created. As per the order of Kal, Eka Mai keeps sending the souls back into the cycle of eighty-four. Just as a potter creates different forms with mud; eg. statues, utensils, toys, etc., in the same manner souls are given different forms in the cycle of eighty-four. When souls were given a human form they were given a body made of five elements: earth, water, fire, air and ether. Together with this they were given five organs of perception (eyes, nose, ears, tongue and skin); five organs of action (hands, feet, mouth, reproductive organ, and excretory organs); four attributes of consciousness (mind, wisdom, heart and egotism); and three attributes or ‘states’ of being (sato-guna, raja-guna and tamo-guna). Mind was made the agent of Kal, and thus man was set free to perform deeds and actions. In this way human beings became trapped in the web of good and bad deeds, and have to face their Karmic accounts accordingly. Man is responsible for each and every thought, word and action. Whether done knowingly or unknowingly, he 215

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is still responsible to pay for his Karmic account. The theory of Karma is based on the philosophy of ‘As you sow, so shall you reap’. Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji has said: As she (soul) has planted, so does she harvest; such is the field of karma. Adi Granth 134

It is due to the result of ones ‘Karma’ (deeds) that some are born in rich families and lead luxurious lives; while others are born in poor families and cannot even afford two square meals a day. Some are destined to take medicine right from birth, and some are so healthy that they have never taken medicine or injections their whole life. Some dogs are born fortunate and travel in airconditioned cars with their masters; while others are stray dogs on the road in search of food and are sometimes beaten up. Goswami Tulsi Das Ji has said: This world runs strictly on the rule, “As you sow, so shall you reap.” Sri Ramcharitmanas 2.218.2

The king of Hastinapur, king Dhritrashtra once asked Lord Krishna the reason for his blindness from birth. It is believed that king Dhritrashtra had the knowledge of his previous hundred births. He told Lord Krishna that as far back as he could see, in the course of his last hundred births (in different forms), he had not committed any sin to merit the punishment of blindness in this birth. Lord Krishna possessed spiritual powers and he laid his hand on Dhritrashtra’s forehead to enable him to visualize farther back. Dhritrashtra saw that in his 105th birth, when he 216

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was a small boy of only four or five years, he pricked a needle in the eyes of an ant while playing. The act was done in innocence and ignorance, yet he still had to pay for his deeds and was born blind in this birth. So you see the theory of ‘Karma’ is not so simple. It is complicated, intricate and even philosophical. The ‘Karmas’ are of three types: 1. 2. 3.

Kriyaman Karma (day to day karmas) Prarabdh Karma (destiny karmas) Sanchit Karma (Stored or accumulated karma)

1. Kriyaman Karma: After birth, human beings are free to perform good and evil deeds, sinful or meritorious actions. One continually sows the seeds of karmas. This is known as kriyaman karmas. Kriyaman karma is that which we do presently, for which we will have to pay in future. After Kal Niranjan took the storehouse of souls from God, we don’t know how many times we have received human births. In the Gita Lord Krishna has said “I was born many times and so were you; however, I have the knowledge of each birth of mine, but you do not.” So we are sent to the earth innumerable times in different forms, good and bad. We are also making karmas in this birth, some of which will be reaped by us in this life; the rest becoming our prarabdh or sanchit karmas. Whatever kriyaman karmas that we sow, its fruit will definitely be reaped by us. The philosophy of karma is so intricate that if a man commits ten good deeds and five evil deeds, then he will receive the reward for his ten good deeds along with the punishment for his five evil deeds. Man has no knowledge of his previous births or lives, 217

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nor his karmas, but he can have a good future by doing virtuous deeds. So while performing kriyaman (his daily) karmas, one should be very careful. He should avoid those actions which the great Saints have forbidden; for example: lying, violence, indecent behavior, using intoxicants, etc. He should try to control his mind by the method explained by the Saints and Guru, and should practice more Bhajan and Simran. This will help to avoid bad karmas in our daily life. 2. Prarabdh Karma: Prarabdh is known as destiny or fate karma. Destiny is something which we have to face during our lifespan. Our prarabdh (destiny) is the result of deeds done in our previous life. Dharam Rai (God of death) keeps the account of our karmas. A man dies after his prarabdh karmas are washed or cleared. Our prarabdh or destiny starts in the mother’s womb itself. It is due to the prarabdh karma that the growth and development of some unborn children is not proper in the womb; due to which they have to suffer throughout their life. When Ram and Sita were sent to the forest in exile, they slept on the leaves and grass. In Shringverpur, when Nishad Raj saw them, he felt sad and blamed and cursed Mother Kaikeyi (Ram’s step-mother) for this pitiable plight. Lakshman, Ram’s brother was also there. He said very politely that nobody else is responsible for our joys and sorrows; it is the result of our own deeds (karmas). O brother, no one gives pain or pleasure to anyone. One undergoes only the results of ones own previous actions. Sri Ramcharitamanas 2.91.2

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That is why Saints always advise us to face our prarabdh karmas accepting it to be the will of Lord, and also the fruit of our own seeds sown in past births, which we have to face in this life. We cannot change our prarabdh karmas which is our fate or destiny, but by doing our Spiritual Practices, we can go through them gracefully. We should adopt a perfect living Guru, get initiated and practice Bhajan-Simran. By Bhajan-Simran, we imbibe the virtues of patience, politeness, kindness, generosity and contentment and we get the inner strength to face our destiny without too much upsetting of our balance. 3. Sanchit Karma: Sanchit means the store of karmas. It is the accumulated reserve. Because in every life it is not possible to pay for all that has been done in the previous life, we have collected a huge debt of reserve or sanchit karmas to which we have been adding in every life, for many ages. If a person undergoes his Prarabdh karmas and they are finished, but he doesn’t have any day to day karmas left, he is given the next life according to the basis of his sanchit karmas. Some of the sanchit karmas are mixed with prarabdh. He gets the next life on the basis of good and bad karmas. The sanchit karmas can be burned or cleared by meditation and this can be achieved by adopting a Guru, getting initiation and practicing Bhajan-Simran. With the help of Shabad our mind goes back to its origin. By the grace of Satguru our sanchit karmas are cleared. If the seeds of gram, corn, maize or wheat are burned, they cannot give rise to new plants; in the same way, Guru burns the seeds of our karmas. When our account of sanchit karmas are cleared, only then can we move to higher 219

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regions in our spiritual journey. Man may be good, religious, generous and charitable, but unless all the three types of karmas are cleared, our soul cannot be merged back into the Lord. Son, we should not get confused and entangled in the theory of karma; instead we should devote more time to Bhajan-Simran. We should have faith in our Guru and should abide by his instructions. As we do Bhajan-Simran we keep moving ahead in our spiritual journey. We will come to know that meditation takes care of the entire store of karmas. Slowly and gradually we understand the theory of karma. In one of my verses it is stated: Take the Nam of Radha Soami and practice it; without this, the fruit of karmas cannot be altered. The three Gods and the Divine Mother do their work per the will of the Guru.

Q362: Babaji, is suicide and natural death the same? Answer: Son, death is death whether it is natural or through suicide. Externally they are very different, but internally the actual process of death is the same. We are alive as long as there is a connection between the eyes and the sole’s of the feet. When this connection breaks the stage is referred to as death but suicide is a very large sin. Q363: Babaji, how does the repetition of ‘Nam’ (Simran) help us in our spiritual journey? Answer: Son, ‘Nam’ is the power which helps us to reach our destination, which is the highest mansion or region 220

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on the spiritual journey. At this level, the form of the Guru helps us to eliminate all the obstacles coming in our way. Simran (repetition of Nam) helps us to concentrate. Once concentration develops, it becomes easier to embark on our spiritual journey. ‘Nam’ helps us to get detached from the external world and attached to the Supreme Power. Kabir says, by Simran one finds happiness and loses sorrows and by this Simran one dissolves into God.

Q364: Babaji, even having knowledge of the Spiritual Path, sometimes people still attempt suicide. Is this due to their past Karmas? Answer: Son, it can be the result of their previous deeds or their present actions. Only when a person’s wisdom or intelligence fails or stops working would he attempt suicide. If for any reason he does not succeed in his attempt, he would become terror stricken with what he was about to do. Here is an anecdote which I would like to share with you. This is an incident that happened when I was studying at Khalsa College in Layalpur. After school one day, I was walking toward the railway station where I found a man standing on the railway track. The train was approaching on the same track but he did not move. I gathered that he was planning to commit suicide. I approached him and asked, “What are you doing here? The train is coming.” As the train got nearer, I forcibly pulled him away from the track and the train passed by. The man started weeping loudly and fell at my feet saying “If you were not here to save me, my head would have surely been 221

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cut off.” I asked him the reason for attempting to commit suicide and he said that he had become angry. I escorted him home, as he had now realized his mistake. You see, ‘anger is the greatest enemy of man’. It can ruin your life. Time never comes back. See that it is not too late to repent for the deeds you do. At times of anger, draw your attention up towards your Guru, and everything will be alright. Q365: Babaji, what should we do to rise up, above the state of ‘joy’ or ‘excitement’? Answer: Son, we have received the human body due to both good and bad karmas. We accordingly experience happiness or sadness in our life. In sad moments we feel pain, but in times of pleasure we enjoy and do not remember the Lord. In whatever position he places us we should not forget Him. We should try to go beyond these two states of mind and remain balanced. To train our mind to face any situation in a stable and a composed manner we should do Bhajan-Simran as explained and taught by the great Saints and Gurus. Q366: Babaji, after adopting a Guru, are we in a position to help our relatives who have died? Answer: Son, we can help others only after we help ourselves. In our Spiritual Journey we must rise to a stage where we can help and shower grace on everyone. This can be attained only through Nam. We can help our relatives only when we are attached to the Shabad inside. By doing Bhajan-Simran if we reach ‘Anami Desh’ 222

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(Nameless Region), our relatives who have passed away are also benefitted. The Lord helps them by giving them human form in their next birth. When we do Bhajan-Simran our family members, both dead and alive, receive Grace from the Almighty. If they are dead, they get a human birth and receive Nam and attain salvation and are redeemed. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the incarnation of God. He showered His blessings and redeemed countless souls. To help others is in accordance with the Will of the Lord. Q367: Babaji, if we take medicine having implicit faith in our Guru, do we recover from our illness faster? Answer: Son, taking medicine while having faith in Guru or Saint or God certainly helps one to recover from an illness, but it is a pity that our faith towards Guru is only thru lip service and not by action. We should act according to the Will of our Guru to overcome the hurdles of life. Here is an incident related to Baba Bagga Singh Ji which I would like to share with you. Baba Bagga Singh Ji would deliver Spiritual Discourses each New Moon day at 11 o’clock in the morning at Tarn Taran Dera. Once, during the course of the satsang a man entered the premises of the Dera carrying his disabled son in his arms. After the satsang, he went to Baba Bagga Singh Ji to relate his problem. Babaji was very merciful and tender hearted and could not stand to see people suffering. He asked the person about his problem. The man told him that he was the disciple of Baba Sawan Singh Ji; that his son was suffering from arthritis and was not getting well even after a lot of treatment. Then he took his son to Baba Sawan Singh Ji, but He told him to go to Dera Tarn Taran where 223

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his brother Baba Bagga Singh resides. The man did not have faith in this, so continued taking his son to Baba Sawan Singh Ji two or three more times. Baba Sawan Singh Ji reiterated that it was due his personal ignorance that he was not listening; and going to Baba Bagga Singh ji was the only solution. Finally the man had to bring his son to Tarn Taran Dera. Baba Bagga Singh Ji then asked one of his disciples, Teja Singh, who was a local physician if he had any medicine. Teja Singh replied that he had a bottle of medicine for stomach ailments. Baba Bagga Singh ji made three packings of that medicine and advised the man to give his son one immediately, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening. He also told the man to leave the Dera before 4:00 am the next morning. After giving all three doses, both father and son went to sleep. The next morning at 3:00 am the man awoke from sleep conscious of the fact that they had to leave Dera. He found that his son was not there, got worried, and hurried out to ask the watchman about his son. The watchman replied that he had seen a boy walking towards the bathroom. As the man turned to go towards the bathroom, he saw his son coming. He couldn’t believe his eyes. He was mesmerized and filled with gratitude. His son was walking by himself as if he never suffered from the disease. He was completely cured by the blessing of Baba Bagga Singh Ji. Baba Ji had cured such a complicated problem by just a local medicine. So... if we have full faith in Guru, then his benevolence will cure all ailments. Q368: Babaji, why don’t you write the name of the persons asking questions? 224

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Answer: Son, I deliberately don’t mention names. This is because it will develop ego in the minds of those persons whose names will be published in a book. Q369: Babaji, if while suffering from a physical ailment a disciple loses trust in his Guru, does Guru still show mercy to him? Answer: Son, Guru always supports his disciple regardless of his state of mind. Guru says that one has to endure the consequences of previous actions. It is possible that these troubles have been very much reduced though it may not seem so. Q370: Babaji, while doing meditation, what are the signs that our soul has reached higher realms inside? Answer: Son, when the soul gets concentrated, we feel a trance-like condition. We lose consciousness towards the physical body and we feel a (supreme) bliss of meditation. We have to experience this practically. Q371: Babaji, we have heard that when a person is critically ill he loses consciousness and doesn’t recognize anybody; but does he still remember the Holy Name? Answer: Son, the Holy Name belongs to the Almighty. We have received that name from our Guru. When Guru blesses us with the Holy Name, a deep-rooted stamp is impressed on our soul. Many a time a person may seem to be unconscious, but he has the capability of recognition inside. He is actively thinking inside. The Holy Names are 225

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deep-rooted and one never forgets them. A tape recorder will stop after some time, but the Voice of the Soul is never ending. When the Holy Names are given at initiation, it is given in a powerful way, so that everybody remembers it thoroughly. Q372: Babaji, if somebody forgets the Five Names given at initiation, can it be taken a second time? Answer: Son, I have given the answer to this in ‘Questions and Answers Part 1’. If somebody forgets the Holy Names, he can ask some Satsangi, but the Satsangi should be onehundred percent certain that the person has already taken Naamdan. If a person forgets the third word of the Holy Names, then you can varify by asking him the fourth and fifth word. If he answers correctly, then the Holy Names can be conveyed to him. However, it is always better, should a person forget the Holy Names, that he come to the Dera, and ask the Gurudev directly or attend an initiation. Q373: Babaji, when our Simran reaches a certain level of maturity, is there any activity in the lower part of the body? Answer: Son, when we are experiencing supreme bliss while doing Simran, we don’t pay attention to the lower part of the body. Q374: Babaji, it is said that when a person motivates someone to take Naamdan he earns virtue. If the person taking Naamdan doesn’t develop any devotion, will the 226

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person who helped him still earn merit? Answer: Son, the relevant point here is that the person has taken Naamdan. As per Sant Kabir, the credit for this definitely goes to the person who has motivated him. After that he doesn’t have any role. He gets merit from his actions; then it depends upon destiny and the efforts of the new initiate as to how much control Kal has got over him. But after receiving Naamdan he is assured of a human body in the next birth. Q375: Babaji, what should be done if poor health prevents a disciple from going to the Dera and doing Gurus sewa? Answer: Son, if the ailment is preventing somebody from physical movement, then he should devote more time to Bhajan-Simran; but in my opinion there is no illness which should prevent anybody from visiting Dera and doing Sewa. Q376: Babaji, it is said that Guru blesses his dear disciples with three gifts: poverty, ill health and humility. Please explain this in detail. Answer: Son, implications of this concept differs from person to person. Poverty does not necessarily mean lack of resources here. It may mean a person should consider himself in a ‘down to earth’ way as compared with others [not feeling superior to others]. Poor health means nullifying ones ego, and humility means a person should not feel let down if somebody tries to humiliate him; it is expected that a contemptuous person will mock others. 227

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Q377: Babaji, what should be done if a person does not believe in contemporary Gurus, and criticizes openly in front of the disciple? Answer: Son, if somebody is criticizing Guru then the disciple should politely ask him to discontinue such talk. If the person continues, even after requesting that he stop this inappropriate behavior two or three times, the disciple should leave his association. Q378: Babaji, if a person has taken Naamdan, will other rituals of worship, like fasting, etc., still help him? Answer: Son, if a person has taken Naamdan, he should follow the instructions of his Guru and lay more stress on Bhajan and Simran. Religious acts will definitely earn some virtue either in this birth or the next birth; but keep in mind they have no connection with uniting the Atma (soul) with Param-atma (Supreme Soul). Param-atma can be achieved only by taking the Holy Name (Naamdan) and practicing it. The main objective in this life is to unite our soul (Atma) with God (Param-atma). Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji Maharaj says: As she has planted, so does she harvest; such is the field of karmas. Adi Granth 134

Q379: Babaji, if Guru comes in a dream of his disciple, then what can that disciple understand from this? Answer: Son, Guru blesses his disciples with the wisdom to understand the significance of such instances. Other 228

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persons are unable to do so. However, one should not believe so much in dreams. If the dreams are pleasant then it is a matter of happiness, but if they are unpleasant, it should not cause worry that something bad is going to happen. Some persons make a display of it by announcing that Guru Ji has appeared in their dreams; but really the details of dreams should not be divulged. Q380: Babaji, if a person who has already taken Naamdan does some charity work, will it provide him additional benefit? Answer: Son, any act of goodness is definitely beneficial; however, the benefit it provides to a person doing BhajanSimran is very little - like a needle in a haystack. In Japuji Sahib, Guru Nanak Dev Ji has said: Pilgrimages, austere discipline, compassion and charity: These, by themselves, bring only an iota of merit. Adi Granth 4

Pilgrimages, penances, compassion and charity add to the virtue of a person, but it is nominal as compared to the benefit derived from Bhajan-Simran. Bhajan-Simran is like an Ocean; whereas the act of charity or benevolence is like adding a glass of water to the ocean. If the act of benevolence is something special, then it may have some profound effect. It is said in the Bani that: As she has planted, so does she harvest; such is the field of karmas. Adi Granth 134

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Q381: Babaji, if a disciple gets detached from Guru, does the Guru empathize with him, or punish him in order to bring him back on track? Answer: Guru deliberates a lot before giving Naamdan to anybody. He gives Naamdan only when he is sure about it. A person gets Naamdan only if it is destined. After giving Namdaan a Guru then takes on the responsibility of uniting his soul with the Almighty. Guru never deserts or leaves his disciple and he makes every effort toward unifying his disciples soul with the Lord. Guru rescues his disciple from the grip and control of Kal. Related to this I have written a verse. A strange play was visible there. Guru tore up the account of karmas. He held my arm and took me away. Then the play was finished.

Q382: Babaji, it is said that a Satsangi should not go to a non-satsangi’s home. Please shed some light on this. Answer: Son, we should avoid eating at a house where nobody is doing Bhajan-Simran, but we are living in a society and under certain social compulsions where we have to entertain various relationships. If our relatives offer something, we cannot refuse them (this of course does not apply to the forbidden foods like meat, eggs, alcohol, etc., which must be refused under any and all circumstances). For example, if we go to the house of the in-laws of our children, and they offer sweets, we cannot refuse them directly as they will be offended. In that circumstance we should contemplate and pray to our Guru 230

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and take the offerings. That night we should spend twice our usual time in Bhajan-Simran, and continue doing this for one week. Q383: Babaji, what should be done if somebody is unable to do Bhajan-Simran due to physical discomfort? Answer: Son, Kabir Sahib has stated: Everyone does simran in times of sorrow and pain; but no one does simran in times of happiness. If someone were to do simran in happy times, there would never be times of sorrow. Kabir says, simran creates happiness and removes sorrows. By simran one is dissolved into the Almighty.

Son, if a grieving person comes to Guru and conveys his sufferings to him, Saints will always suggest that he do Bhajan-Simran. Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji has said: Naam is the panacea and remedy to cure all ills! Adi Granth 274

Q384: Babaji, if somebody has not taken Naamdan but has faith in the Guru, will this faith benefit him? Answer: Son, Faith equals God, but the real Faith is developed after we adopt a Guru. If we are attracted towards Guru before taking Naamdan, then it means we have moved into His Sphere. It is very significant. If the belief is firm then he will definitely get Naamdan one day. 231

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Q385: Babaji, does an ‘evil spell’ or witchcraft have any sort of effect on a person who has received Nam? Answer: Son, a person who has received Nam is not affected by evil spells or witchcraft; but one thing should be kept in mind: even though one is initiated, he MUST do Bhajan-Simran [this protects]. These negative supernatural powers are also obtained through meditation (Riddhis); however, Radha Soami Teachings is against such practices and use of powers. The initiates who are sincere in their practice of Bhajan-Simran, can never be affected by such evil practices; but no comment for those who do not devote time to their meditation. Q386: Babaji, how can we explain the relevance and importance of a Perfect Living Master in our lives to a worldly person who doesn’t believe in Guru, and has not received Naamdan? Answer: Son, it is rather difficult to give understanding to such people, but there is no harm in trying. We can adopt certain measures so that they are influenced. We can relate to them certain incidents or experiences reflecting the grace of Guru. The constant love and blessings of a Guru take our life in a positive direction. All this may arouse interest in them to know more. They might ask certain questions regarding the greatness of a Guru. If they are satisfied with the answers then possibly the natural inclination of the soul, which is present in everyone, would compel them to go towards Guru and also develop faith in Him. 232

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Q387: Babaji, if a person loses faith in his Guru and turns his back on Him, even after receiving Nam, will it have any bad effect on his family members? Answer: Son, whoever does so is solely responsible for his own actions. He will pay for his misdeeds, and not his family members. We are the ones who reap both our good and bad deeds. ‘As you sow, so shall you reap.’ In happy moments a person receives good wishes from his relatives. During tragic moments they express their condolences to him. If a child goes astray even after receiving Nam, the family members are affected in the sense that they are terribly hurt due to the child’s actions. They may feel humiliated and disgraced. Related to this, in one of my verses, I have written: If the son gets a bad name, the father too suffers same.

Q388: Babaji, do Saints give warnings? Answer: Son, the word warning is too harsh a word to be used in context with the Saints. They are the Messengers of Love. There is no place for warnings in love. Yes, writers who are also disciples do write in the Spiritual Books that one should adopt a Guru and getting initiated practice Bhajan-Simran to get liberation from the cycle of eightyfour. We may interpret this as a warning. Sometimes the Saints also remind and alert the people through their verses. Guru Ramdas ji was a Messenger of Peace. Seeing the pitiable condition of human beings He wrote in his verses to remind people to adopt a Guru and practice Bhajan-Simran before it is too late. 233

Questions & Answers Part 2 Receiving Naam, the mind is satisfied; without Naam, life is a curse. Adi Granth 40

You see, it depends upon us how do we take these things - as a warning or as an inner voice. Q389: Babaji, what should be done to avoid the disrespect likely to be inflicted on the torn photograph or torn book of a Guru? Answer: Son, this is entirely in your hands. You may do whatever you consider right. To avoid disrespect in this regard, the torn photo or torn book of a Guru may be immersed in water when discarding. Q390: Babaji, it is said that when the souls were separated from God and sent to the earth, they wept a lot. Don’t you think an injustice was done to these souls by separating them from their Loved One? Answer: Sister, you are right, the souls did weep a lot when being separated from God, but this separation was necessary to start the process of life on earth. I will ask you a simple question. Are you married? If so, do you think your father has done an injustice to you by sending you to your in-laws home after marriage? You too must have wept a lot on departing from your loved ones. Similarly the souls cried a lot when they were parting from their Father, the Almighty; but now they are so much entangled in worldly desires and loves that they do not want to go back. Gurus and Saints keep emphasizing that this is not our True Home. We all are in the range of Kal, 234

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which hinders our going back to our Source which is our true home, Sachkhand. Bhajan and Simran is the only way to reach our destination. Q391: Babaji, what is Maya? Answer: Son, we are all caught in the web of Maya [illusion]. We do not understand the Master, nor do we know the Path to realize Him. The obstacles or the hindrances that prevent the soul from reaching its Real Home in Sachkhand can be termed as the Veil of Maya. Yes, Maya’s illusion conceals the vision of God from our sight. Guru Arjun Dev Ji has said in his verse: Maya has spread out her net, and in it, she has placed the bait. The bird of desire is caught, and cannot find any escape, O’ Mother. Adi Granth 50

What is a human and what power does he have? All the tumult of Maya is false. Adi Granth 178

Guru Amar Das ji has also said: Attachment to Maya is an ocean of darkness. Neither this shore nor the one beyond can be seen. The ignorant self-willed manmukhs suffer in terrible pain. They forget the Lord’s Name and drown. Adi Granth 89

Q392: Babaji, what is Kal and what is Akal? 235

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Answer: Son, Kal and Dayal are two opposite powers created by God. Dayal is the Positive Power and Kal is the negative power with mind as its agent. The souls influenced by Dayal are the souls of the Lord. Those who are trapped in the web of Kal are put on the wrong track. Kal does not allow them to get attached to the Lord. Those who do not fall under the domain of Kal are termed as Akal. Q393: Babaji, how many types of Satsang are there? Answer: Son, Satsang does not have any type. The meaning of Satsang is Association with the Truth. In Guru Granth Sahib, Guru Nanak Dev Ji has said: How is the Society of the Saints to be known? The Name of the One Lord is chanted. Adi Granth 72

Guru Sahib says that Satsang is a congregation of people where spiritual discourses are based upon the praises of God, i.e. the Ultimate Truth. The aim of Satsang is to attach people to God. Swami ji Maharaj says: Now I tell you what Satsang is. Satsang is where praises of Sat Nam— Sat Purush are sung. Sarbachan 11:1:59

Discussing the truths of God (the Spiritual Path) at home, in the shop, or at any other gathering is termed Satsang; and even to think about the union with Guru or God can be called Satsang. 236

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji The form of the Guru would be as dear to the devotees as the husband is to a loving wife and the runningstream of water to a fish. This is how a devotee should attend Satsang and associate himself with Sat Guru. Then will he reap the real benefit of Satsang. Sarbachan 13:1:39,40

By practicing Bhajan-Simran as explained by the Guru, one gets attached to the Ultimate Truth within. That is Real Satsang. External Satsang or association should be such that nobody in the world is as dear as Sat Guru. Then only can the devotee apply himself to internal Satsang. His Surat will ascend to the inner sky (the third Til). Sarbachan 38:6:25,26

Q394: Babaji, please shed some light on the statement ‘Nam is the Ultimate Truth’? Answer: Son, Nam has been described as the Supreme Power in the Holy Books. Since Nam has emanated from the Supreme Being, it has created everything. The fifth Guru Arjun Dev Ji has quoted in the Sukhmani Sahib: The Naam is the Support of all creatures. The Naam is the Support of the earth and solar systems. The Naam is the Support of the Simritees, the Vedas and the Puranas. The Naam is the Support by which we hear of spiritual wisdom and meditation. The Naam is the Support of the Akashic ethers and the nether regions. 237

Questions & Answers Part 2 The Naam is the Support of all bodies. The Naam is the Support of all worlds and realms. Associating with the Naam and listening to it with the inner ears, one is saved. Those to whom the Lord is merciful are attached to His Naam. O Nanak, in the fourth stage, those humble servants attain salvation. Adi Granth 284

Nam is a Sublime and Supreme Power. It is a Power that has originated from God. Nam alone is the Ultimate Truth. Q395 : Babaji, it is said that the Divine Sound can be heard within when we sit for Bhajan. What does that mean? Answer: Son, when we practice Bhajan, we are on our spiritual journey; so whatever we experience is within. You see, everything is within our body, there is nothing outside. Shri Guru Arjun Dev Ji has said: Everything is within the home of the self, there is nothing beyond it. One who searches outside is deluded by doubt. Adi Granth 102

Everything is within the home of your own self, there is nothing beyond it. By Guru’s Grace, it is obtained, and the doors of the inner heart are opened wide. Adi Granth 425

God is inside our body. We cannot attain him by going to forests, mountains, religious places, or by following 238

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rituals. We can meet God only by following the method explained by Saints and Gurus. We can attain him within through the practice of Bhajan-Simran (meditation). Those who seek God outside are trapped in illusion. They are wasting their life wandering here and there without knowing their (real) goal. Within this cave, the Invisible and Infinite Lord abides. The Naam is a Priceless Jewel; it is with the Perfect True Guru. Adi Granth 124

Q396: Babaji, it is said that Nam is Divine Light. What does that mean? Answer: Son, Nam is the Supreme Power. It is also known as ‘Sar Shabad’. Nam has been called different names by different Saints. Nam has two qualities: Divine Light and Divine Sound. Divine Sound is also referred to as Ram Nam, Ram Dhun, Naad, Sach-i-bani, Akath-Katha, Hari-kirtan, Azan, Word and Logos. The Divine Light and the Divine Sound which we experience during the course of our spiritual journey is none other than Nam Itself. Q397: Babaji, why is it that we can attain the secret of the True Nam only by the Grace of a Guru? Answer: Son, we can get education only through a teacher. Teacher is also referred to as ‘Guru’ or ‘Ustad’ (Muslim name for respected teacher). Similarly, the knowledge and secret of Nam can be attained from a Perfect Master. This teacher is respectfully referred to as Guru. A Guru is one who is attached to Nam within; who also has the ability to 239

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connect others with Nam. Guru Ram Das Ji has quoted: Naam is a Priceless Jewel; it is with the Perfect True Guru. When one is enjoined to serve the True Guru, He brings out this Jewel and bestows this enlightenment. Adi Granth 40

Guru Amar Das Ji states: Without the Guru, Naam cannot be obtained The Siddhas and the seekers weep and wail for lack of it. Adi Granth 115

The siddhas and yogis who practiced sadhana’s (disciplines) lamented that they had not received Nam. According to Guru Granth Sahib, Nam can only be received through a Perfect Master: Through the True Word of the Shabad, true honor is obtained. Without the Name, no one attains liberation. Without the True Guru, no one finds the Name. Such is the making which God has made. Adi Granth 1046

God has made such a rule that without adopting a Perfect Master one cannot receive Nam. This rule started with the Creation of the Universe. Guru Nanak Dev Ji has stated: Without the True Guru, no one has obtained the Lord; without the True Guru, no one has obtained the Lord. Adi Granth 466

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No person is entitled to receive Nam without adopting a Guru or taking His Refuge. Q398: Baba Ji, please tell me why we need a Guru? Answer: Son, a person who imparts knowledge is called a teacher or a Guru. In order to get knowledge or education we need a teacher in that particular line. In the same way, in order to gain Spiritual Knowledge we need a living Spiritual Master. The literal meaning of Guru is ‘Dispeller of Darkness.’ Without adopting a Spiritual Master or Guru we will never get the knowledge to begin our Spiritual Journey which leads to the unification with the Lord. According to Guru Granth Sahib: If a hundred moons were to rise, and a thousand suns appear in the sky, even with such light, there would still be pitch darkness without Guru. Adi Granth 463

Q399: Babaji, what are the benefits of ‘Simran’? Answer: Son, Simran is something precious. We are fortunate if we have been given this gift. Most of us undervalue it, which is unfortunate. Simran is like a shield that protects us. It also helps to remove the dirt and grime of our previous deeds which we have accumulated from ages past. Simran is a step towards union with God. The more time we spend in Simran, the less time we waste on criticism and gossip. Concentration can be developed only through Simran. 241

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Q400: Babaji, what is meant by ‘Darshan’? Answer: Son, the literal meaning of darshan is ‘to see’. Seeing or looking at a Saint or Guru with love is known as Darshan. In Spirituality the word darshan has two meanings: 1) To see or behold the Guru in his physical form. 2) To visualize the Radiant Form of the Guru within during Bhajan-Simran (meditation). External darshan of Guru is very important. The urge and desire to have darshan of Guru helps one to visualize his form within. Guru Arjun Dev ji has said in this verse: My mind longs for the Blessed Vision of the Guru’s Darshan. It cries out like a thirsty song-bird. My thirst is not quenched, and I can find no peace without the Blessed Vision of the Beloved Saint. I am a sacrifice, my soul is a sacrifice to the Blessed Vision of the Beloved Saint. Adi Granth 96

All our sins are destroyed or burnt when we see the form of Guru within. This helps us to unite with God. Guru Arjun Dev ji has stated: Receiving the Blessed Vision of His Darshan, all sins are erased, and He unites us to Him. Adi Granth 915

Q401: Babaji, please tell us something about ‘Dhyan’? Answer: Son, Dhyan is concentrating the mind between the two eyes. Dhyan illuminates the mind and the person stops 242

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thinking about his own self and ‘his own world.’ [problems, etc.] Dhyan can be practiced after taking Naamdan from a Saint, practicing the Holy Names (Simran), and establishing the vision of Guru inside. Swami Ji explained: O dear! Contemplate on the form of Guru. You cannot be liberated without it. Sarbachan 19:2:1

Shri Guru Arjan Dev ji has said: Meditate on the image of the Guru within your mind. Let your mind accept the Word of the Guru’s Shabad, and His Mantra. Adi Granth 864

Q402: Babaji, how is it possible to see God inside every human being? Answer: Son, the answer is inherent in the question itself. A person asking the question knows that God is there inside every human being, and it is being stated in the question. Q403: Babaji, what is ‘Surat Shabad Yoga’? Answer: Son, in the scriptures we come across different types of ‘Yogas’. The literal meaning of the word ‘Yoga’ is ‘to unite’. To unite the soul (Surat) with God (Shabad) is called ‘Surat-Shabad Yoga’. This is a method of uniting our soul with God. Q404: Babaji, how can we stop immoral thoughts from polluting our mind? 243

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Answer: Son, the power of God is prevailing inside every person. There is no doubt that Kal Niranjan is also a son of God. He is the ruler of this world and ‘mind’ is his agent. The immoral thoughts can be avoided by taking the Five Holy Names (initiation) and practicing them, thus establishing the power of God within us. When a person engages in an evil deed, the soul opposes it, but the mind does not listen. By practicing the Holy Names the power of the soul is strengthened, and the mind loses its control. The evil thoughts created by mind lose their grip. It is like a strong wife aligning her husband to her wishes. Thus, Guru and repeating the Holy Names is the only way to avoid evil thoughts. Therefore, we should take Nam from a Perfect Master, practice Bhajan-Simran and try to increase the power of our soul. Q405: Babaji, what is Atma (soul)? From where does it come and where does it go? Answer: Son, this question has been raised repeatedly, and Saints have replied aptly to this. People do not accept the explanations of the Saints until they experience this within themselves. Until then, they cannot comprehend the reality. ‘Atma’ is a current, a power, a Current of the Almighty. It is like electricity which is not visible, but its power can be seen. The Almighty also appeared by Itself. I have given the analogy of cyclones. It is said that when a low pressure area is formed in the plains (like a vacuum); then the wind blows from all directions to fill that area and this gives rise to cyclones. It is so gusty that it can destroy many things. 244

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In a similar way the Almighty is established by Itself. It is a long story. In order to create the world Niranjan was given the kingdom of Trikuti. Niranjan, along with Eka Mai created Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva). When the Almighty sent his souls, Niranjan attached ‘mind’ along with them. Now mind and soul have developed a strong bond for each other, and in this way the world is functioning. Although God has created the whole universe, still it is being controlled by Niranjan and Eka Mai. When the world was established fully, Niranjan went to Sunn and started meditating there. Soul, which is a part of the Almighty, is the prime force in the human form. A person can unite with God only if he experiences death [learns to die] while living. The soul never gets destroyed, but returns to its source. The wind gives rise to tides in the sea which rise and subside again after reaching the shores. A knowledgeable person understands this fact. But those who do not know this are always in a dilemma. Q406: Babaji, who can experience the ‘Dhun’? Answer: Son, Dhun is an energy which starts from Anami Desh and gets established inside Saints. The only way to unite with God is to take the Holy Name, do Simran and Dhyan, and listen to the Holy Dhun inside oneself through the right ear. Surat and Nirat are the two forces of soul. Surat is related to listening to the Dhun of Shabad inside, and Nirat is related to seeing the glow or Radiance of Shabd inside. The Surat and Nirat help in experiencing the Dhun which is coming from the area of Sunn. Swamiji Maharaj has defined Nirat as the light which leads Surat to the 245

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abode of God. He has said: Led by Nirat, I merge in Shabd every moment. Sarbachan 35:20:4

One who uses the Surat and Nirat to experience the Dhun can understand it. It seems like the Dhun is heard by our external ears, but actually it is heard through the inner ears. Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji has written: To see without eyes, to hear without ears, to walk without feet, to work without hands, to speak without a tongue. Like this, one remains dead while yet alive. O Nanak, recognize the Hukam of the Lord’s Command, and merge with your Lord and Master. Adi Granth 139

When Guru, well-versed in the secrets and mysteries of Shabd, is met, the disciple will have longing and yearning for Shabd. When one practises Surat Shabd Yoga, then only will one’s mind become somewhat steady. Sarbachan 9:9:8,9

This ‘Dhun’ leads us through the Five Landmarks to Anami Desh. It is likened to a drop of water getting submerged and becoming one with the mighty ocean. It is similar to the way a hunter catches a deer in the forest: the hunter produces music from a drum and the deer gets enchanted with the music and lays his head at the feet of the hunter. Similarly, we are attracted towards this Holy Dhun which we have already listened to in Sachkhand [in the ancient past]. This Dhun helps us to unite with God 246

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just as a drop of water becomes one with the ocean. But to achieve this we need the support of a Complete Guru who has established this holy ‘Dhun’ inside himself. In this reference Swamiji Maharaj also has said: This Dhun or Shabd is of the Highest Region. Only a soldier saint can contact it. He will control the mind and ride on it. He will lay siege to the fortress of Gagan (Trikuti). Sarbachan 9:9:12,13

Q407: Babaji, please clarify which certificate (or degree) the Saints acquire in order to attain this Supreme Authority? Answer: Son, a Saint who has been ‘authorized’ by his Guru is complete in all respects. If someone starts a ‘new authority’, it is by his own wish. I don’t want to comment on that as he is doing what he thinks is best. Q408: Babaji, did the souls commit sins due to which they were sent to this world. It is said that they wept while being sent? Answer: Son, when God handed over the souls to Eka Mai, yes, they wept a lot. Then God consoled them by saying that the souls will be taken care in the mortal world, and whenever they will call for Him, He will come and take them back. The souls came here and enjoyed the new creation. It is similar to a girl who is being sent to her husbands after marriage. She weeps but nobody listens to her. Then she starts enjoying her husband’s house, and 247

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is no more interested in her father’s home. God had sent the souls to the mortal world in a similar way. Niranjan did penances for 64 yugas and 70 yugas and demanded souls. Lord had to agree to his request, and thus handed over the souls to Eka Mai, even though the souls were grieved over the separation. Guru Nanak Dev ji said: Whatever was put into them, was put there once and for all. Adi Granth 7

Son, the system of Karmas started long after that, so you see the souls were not sent because they committed any sin, but because it was the wish of God. Q409: Babaji, what is the strongest Power in this world? Answer: Son, if somebody has recognized God, then this question does not arise. Undoubtedly the most powerful is Akal Purush. Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji has said that God is the Most Powerful. He is Unmeasured Vastness, Eternal, and the Most Competent and Proficient One. Guru Arjun has said: God is All-powerful, Vast, Lofty and Infinite. Adi Granth 107

Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji stated in Guru Granth Sahib: One Universal Creator God. The Name Is Truth. Creative Being Personified. No Fear. No Hatred. Image Of The Undying. Beyond Birth, Self-Existent. By Guru’s Grace Adi Granth 1

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Thus God is the Most Powerful. Gurudev is an incarnation of God. Thus we can also say that Guru is the Most Powerful. It is said in the Bani: My True Guru is absolutely All-Powerful. Adi Granth 98

Know that the Guru and the Transcendent Lord are One. Whatever pleases Guru is acceptable and approved. Adi Granth 864

Q410: Babaji, what is death and how many types of death are there? Answer: Son, when the soul departs from the physical body and leaves it lifeless, it is called death. Death is of two types: (1) Physical death which everybody is acquainted with. (2) The death which the Saints explain - and is achieved before one actually dies by practicing Bhajan-Simran (Meditation). Kabir Sahib had said that in order to become immortal, one has to ‘Die while living’. He stated: It is better to die than to live. He who knows how to die before death becomes immortal and is unchanging.

Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji said: O Nanak, remain dead while yet alive - practice such a Yoga. Adi Granth 730

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practice dying externally while yet remaining conscious internally. In this type of death the body loses the external reflexes but the blood continues circulating inside the body. This type of death is practiced by Saints, and they teach us this procedure. St. Paul has also said: I Die Daily (1 Cor. 15:31)

Q411: Babaji, I have received Naamdan. Please explain the significance of Nam? Answer: Son, Nam is the Supreme Power that has originated from God. This Power has created the whole world, the Earth, the Skies, etc. It is said in the Bani: Naam is the Support of all creatures.” The Naam is the Support of the earth and solar systems. The Naam is the Support of the Simritees, the Vedas and the Puranas. The Naam is the Support by which we hear of spiritual wisdom and meditation. The Naam is the Support of the Akaashic ethers and the nether regions. The Naam is the Support of all bodies. The Naam is the Support of all worlds and realms. Associating with the Naam, listening to it with the ears, one is saved. Those whom the Lord mercifully attaches to His Naam O Nanak, in the fourth state, those humble servants attain salvation. Adi Granth 284

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Nam is of two types ‘Varnatmak’ and ‘Dhunatmak’. A Varnatamak name can be written or read; whereas a Dhunatamak Name has no relation to reading and writing. This world remembers God with 180,000 Varnatamak names; but the Dhunatmak Name is just one. Nam existed long before this world came into existence. In the beginning there was complete darkness. Nam took the form of photon and started the journey downwards. The darkness which we are seeing in the sky has a bright world above it. On September 10, 2009 the scientists acknowledged this fact and accepted what Spiritual Science has said all along. When the photon collided two things were produced: electrons and protons. One is negative and the other is positive. In the on-going journey, electrons and protons collided with each other. As per the scientists findings, it resulted in a big explosion. Wherever there were collisions, different worlds were created. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji had said: There was no earth or sky; there was only the infinite Command of His Hukam. There was no day or night, no moon or sun; God sat in primal, profound Samadhi. Adi Granth 1035

Earth, sky and nether worlds were made by Nam. When God wishes to end this Creation, there will be ‘Catastrophe’ or ‘Dissolution’. The Dissolution destroys the world up through ‘Brahm’ or Trikuti. All the three worlds are destroyed in Dissolution: Pind (Physical), Sahansdal Kanwal (Astral), and Trikuti (Causal). A bigger catastrophe called the ‘Grand Dissolution’ results in destruction all the 251

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way up through Bhanwargupha; only the region of Sach Khand remains intact. After this Grand Dissolution, it depends upon God whether He recreates this world or not. This world has been created and destroyed many times. To shed more light on this one may read ‘Anurag Sagar’ or the translation of Japuji Sahib ‘Kita Pasau Eko Kawao.’ This is such a complicated matter that generally a man hesitates to discuss it with others, thinking that it will be ridiculed. As I have already explained, negative and positive forces combined together to create ‘Khands’ and ‘Brahmands’. Try to think how big these Creations are. Even if we combine earths, skies and netherworlds, and keep them in one of the Khands, it will be like a needle in the haystack. Only the person who has seen it can understand this fact. All these creations have been made by Nam, thus we should try to understand the vastness of Nam. Just like a drop of water mingles with the ocean and attains its vastness, we can unite with God and attains His Vastness. Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji used the name ‘Shabad’ to designate Nam. Nam is like a current produced by a generator, and like God, It has no shape, colour or form. Shri Guru Arjun Dev Ji has said: He has no form, no shape, and no color. God is beyond the three Attributes (Harmony, Activity, Sloth). They alone understand Him, O Nanak, with whom He is pleased. Adi Granth 283

Electricity is a word. It is energy, but does not have any form. We can experience it by seeing the light that 252

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shines through a light bulb. Similarly, in order to take Nam we have to approach a perfect Guru who will tell us the Simran of the Five Words. Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji has said: TheTrue Guru is the All-knowing Primal Being; He shows us our True Home within the home of the self. The Panch Shabad, the Five Primal Sounds, resonate and resound within. The insignia of the Shabad is revealed there, vibrating gloriously. Adi Granth 1291

Kabir Sahib has said: The Unstruck Melody of the Panch Shabad, the Five Primal Sounds, vibrates and resounds. I dwell with the Lord of the World. Kabir, Your slave, performs this Arti, this lamp-lit worship service for You, O’ Formless Lord of Nirvana. Adi Granth 1350

Therefore we should not be perplexed, but we should take Nam from a Saint and attain His form. Q412: Babaji, everyone arz (prays) to Guru to have mercy on them. Please explain what this means and how a Guru shows mercy? Answer: Son, the meaning of mercy is to grant someone Blessings and well being. The word ‘arz’ is based upon the relationship between Guru and disciple. A disciple often asks for mercy from his Guru. A Satsangi should ask for internal kindness rather than worldly kindness. He should pray to his Gurudev to keep him in His shelter and 253

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help his soul to unite with God. A Gurudev shows mercy and unites his disciple’s souls with Shabad Guru. Shabad Guru is the manifestation of God (on Spiritual planes). God as such does not have any shape or form. Guru is the personification of God. Guru’s body is made of five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether; but when a disciple manifests Guru inside, then Guru is called Satguru - and has seventeen elements. These seventeen elements consist of five sense organs, five organs of action, four consciences and three attributes. five sense organs are eyes, nose, ears, tongue and skin; five organs of action are hands, feet, mouth, rectum and genitals. The four antashkaran are mind, intellect, chit (memory) and ego. The three attributes or states of matter are Rajogun (activity), Tamogun (inertia), and Satogun (harmony). Beyond the three worlds (Physical, Astral, and Causal), Satguru changes to Shabad Guru. At this stage the disciple is preparing to unite with God. In this way the Satguru shows Mercy and unites his disciple’s soul with Shabad Guru. This is the Real Blessing of Guru. Without Guru’s kindness, nobody could go toward Guru, Nam and Satsang. Q413: Babaji, is there any special way or protocal to invite the Guru to our house? Answer: Son, in order to invite the Guru to visit our house, love and devotion is the important thing. Q414: Babaji, if a Satsangi has taken Naamdan and is doing Sewa in the Dera, but due to some circumstances has stopped coming to Dera, will he be punished? 254

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Answer: Son, if in the world a person is absent from his duties, his wages are deducted and he may get rebuked from his boss; whereas, Guru doesn’t scold anybody. It is said that even if the son may be willful, a father cannot be harsh. I have answered these questions many times, and it would be advantageous if Satsangis would study their books (then these basic questions would be answered automatically). Q415: Babaji, if a person injures another inadvertently, will he get punishment in his next birth? Answer: Son, say a person is driving a car and meets with an accident, and the car gets damaged along with injuries to himself and the co-passenger. Since it was an accident and not done intentionally, the person is not at fault. If the brakes had not been working properly, he might have been penalized by the police. Even if someone gets injured after being hit by a car, the matter can still be solved amicably and not result in consequences in the next birth. However if the incident is carried out intentionally, then it will definitely accrue a karma in the person’s account. However, the incident may also be the consequences of previous ‘Karmas’. Q416: Babaji, if a person is suffering even though he has not done evil deeds [in this life], it is said that he is reaping rewards according to his previous birth. Babaji, nobody has seen their previous births or their future life, so why is this said? Answer: Son, this is said by the person who believes in the 255

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theory of reincarnation. This belief offers consolation to a person and helps him gain strength to endure his sorrows, believing them to be the Will of God. Q417: Babaji, please tell me about the ten tenets to manifest Guru inside us? Answer: Son, I have already replied to this in QuestionsAnswers Part I. However, since you have asked again, I wish to explain that the crux of the procedure is the practice of Simran at all times, Simran-Bhajan (meditation), and attending Satsang as stressed by our Guru. Try to follow this cardinal rule leaving aside the trivial issues, otherwise there is a chance of going astray. To illustrate this, I will tell you two stories. There was once a couple who went to a jungle. They saw a poor blind man sitting there, and the wife, feeling pity for him, brought him to their home. They asked him if he would like to eat some Kheer (rice pudding). The blind person said that he did not know what Kheer nor any other dishes were, since he had been in the jungle for so long. The couple continued to try and explain the concept of Kheer, its white color, etc., but all in vain. The husband, even forgetting the man was blind, got himself into the shape of crane (a white bird) to portray the white color, but of course the blind man was still confused. So you see, it’s of no use beating around the bush. A person riding a motorcycle came upon two friends and asked them the way to Athankot. One of them understood that he really intended to go to Pathankot, so guided him accordingly, however, the other friend told the cycle rider that his pronunciation was incorrect. The cycle 256

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rider accepted his mistake and went his way while the two friends started arguing. One of them said that since the pronunciation was not correct he should not have given the reply he did. A fight ensued and both went their own way. So you see, we should try and understand the main issue and implement it. In that context I will not explain the ten tenets because you will get entrapped in those tenets. The crux of the practice has been explained in the beginning. Q418: Babaji, I don’t sleep throughout the day and even at night, but when my teacher begins lecturing, I feel sleepy. Please explain the reason and help me? Answer: Son, your case reminds me of a lady who said that she hasn’t had any Spiritual Experience. I suggested that she contemplate on the Guru and do Bhajan-Simran. She said that while doing Bhajan she feels sleepy; further that she doesn’t get enough sleep at night. I said that she herself has given the answer to her problem. From your question, it seems that you are not interested in your studies; more so in the subject which you find so difficult. Also, it seems that when the teacher begins talking you may be busy yawning. Q419: Babaji, is Naamdan a Kalpa-vriksh [mythical wishgranting tree]? Answer: Son, Nam is something which cannot be bound by any limitations. ‘Kalpavriksh’ is a tree which fulfils all the wishes of a person. Once, a person was sitting under a tree. He was 257

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thirsty and wished for a glass of cold water: Immediately the cold water appeared. After some time he was hungry and wished for some delicious food: Immediately it appeared before him. He was mystified and was afraid that there was some ghost nearby: Immediately a ghost appeared and began threatening him. The man soon understood that the tree was fulfilling ALL his wishes; so he developed a positive attitude that there is no such thing as ghosts, and immediately the ghost disappeared. Thus a Kalpa-vriksh fulfils every type of wish, whether of good or evil. So you see, it may bring sorrow as well. Nam never gives sorrow, thus Nam cannot be compared to a Kalpavriksh as Nam is our Powerful Benefactor and the Agency of God. Kalpa-vriksh has limitations and has been created by Nam. We should be careful, as many times we are misled by the concepts [we get in our head]. Q420: Babaji, what are the tenets of ‘Ruhani Marg’ (the Spiritual Path)? Answer: Son, there are many tenets of Ruhani Marg - but it is sufficient to know that the basic principle is to unite the soul with God: To think of the soul and contemplate on the means of uniting the soul with God. The knowledge of ‘Ruhaniyat Mat’ gives guidance regarding this, and says that ‘Only by taking Nam, doing Bhajan-Simran and Dhyan can we merge back with the Almighty’. Q421: Babaji, what should a Satsangi hunt for? Answer: Son, a Satsangi ‘hunts’ for a target which is beyond the reach of common man. He should hunt within himself: 258

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to search out his desires, and then try to control them. Instead of unnecessary intellectual wranglings, his efforts should be to take Nam from Guru and control his desires by doing Bhajan-Simran. This is the actual ‘hunting’ which a Satsangi should do... always striving to eliminate the desires. It is said in Bani, “Conquer the mind, you conquer the world” Q422: Babaji, what is Sar Shabad? Answer: Son, Sar Shabad is the Supreme Power which has created this whole world. Whatever is happening is due to Sar Shabad. Q423: Babaji, what is the concept of ‘Sahaj Ka Prakash’? Answer: Son, when a person retraces his soul to between his two eyes, per the guidance of his Satguru, he reaches a stage of trance. He sees a light inside which is called ‘Sahaj Ka Prakash.’ Q424: Babaji, it is said that ‘If a person does good deeds, half of the reward goes to his wife; but when he commits sins, he has to bear the consequences all by himself.’ Please shed some light upon this? Answer: Son, it is a rule of law also. After marriage a woman becomes complementary to her husband. If the relationship is good, she has authority over all his property. Otherwise, also, she is entitled to half of the property. Even if the wealth is accumulated in an unethical way, she has authority over half of it. However, if the husband is caught while taking a bribe, he alone receives the punishment 259

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and not his wife. But you see the wife still gets punishment indirectly since she is deprived of her husband’s love. Q425: Babaji, what is the colour of Nam? Answer: Son, the ‘Colour of Nam’ is understood by those who are influenced by it. Its glory is beyond the description of words. When a person is in high spirits, his face blushes, and it is apparent to others. The True Essence of God is ‘Nam’, and It has created the whole world. God has no colour; so neither does Nam have colour. The soul itself which needs to experience Nam also does not have a form. According to the Saints, ‘in order to experience Nam, Naamdan has to be taken’. In order to see the Formless Entity, one has to leave his own form and see the Khand Brahmand (regions and the universe) inside and go to ‘Anami Desh.’ There it will experience and unite with the subtle power of God and Nam. But at that moment, we cannot describe the glory of ‘Nam’ in words. It is an Unwritten Law and an Unspoken Language. Sri Guru Ramdas ji has said: Those who have tasted the Essence of the True Lord remain satisfied and fulfilled. They know this Essence of the Lord, but can say nothing like the mute who tastes sweet candy, but says nothing. Adi Granth 311

Only the one who tastes, knows it, like the mute who tastes sweet candy, but cannot speak of it. Adi Granth 607

Kabir Sahib has also said: 260

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Says Kabir, the mute has tasted the molasses, but what can he say about it if he is asked? Adi Granth 334

Shri Guru Arjun Dev Ji has also said: I drink in the Invaluable Nectar of Nam, the Name of the Lord. But like the mute, I can only smile - I cannot speak of its flavor. Adi Granth 1205

Q426: Babaji, what is an auspicious day and time for a Satsangi? Answer: Son, God has not created any ‘auspicious’ or ‘inauspicious’ day; so no such question can be answered. In a worldly sense a day when your earnings are good is said to be auspicious, whereas a day when there is some problem is said to be inauspicious. Once I went to Canada and met a Sikh there. After exchange of greetings I came to know that he butchers and sells eighteen to nineteen goats daily. To him, a day is inauspicious if his sales are less by even one or two goats. For him, his fortune depends upon killing and selling goats. Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji Maharaj has said: Blessed and auspicious is that time when one meditates in Remembrance of the Lord. Adi Granth 819

Paltu Sahib had said: The day and time we remember the Nam is auspicious. 261

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Thus every moment may be auspicious for some but inauspicious for others. At the same moment, one person may be enjoying a marriage ceremony, while others will be in mourning at someone’s demise. Now you are wise enough to make your own decisions. Q427: Babaji, what is the significance of love? Answer: Son, it is difficult to evaluate intangible things, and love is something intangible. It has been mentioned in the scriptures that the significance of love is the ‘love itself’ if it is expressed genuinely. Genuine love actually means to get associated with the living death. It cannot be sown nor harvested and the value of this cannot be measured with money. Kabir Sahib has said: Love is not grown like a crop, nor sold in the marketplace. Whoever desires this, king or subject, must pay with his head.

Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji has laid down this condition when He said: If you desire to play this game of love with me, then step onto My Path with your head in your hand! Adi Granth 1412

I have also written a shabad related to this: Those who have received the slap of love are not even able to do their housework. They die while living and live like mad people. 262

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Q428: Babaji, you say that Guru appears when he is remembered sincerely. Please explain the meaning of this. Answer: Son, in this context, sincerity means our ‘genuine’ or true faith. If we remember Guru sincerely he appears before us. The affection of the Guru is in direct proportion to our real faith in him. Q429: Babaji, many times a Saint may give us an apple as Parshad. Should we eat the peel also? Answer: Son, when Guru gives us Parshad, we should take it without having these reservations in our mind. Q430: Babaji, what is the method to get rid of this mess of ‘Karmas’? Answer: Son, the only solution to get rid of Karmas is to take ‘Nam’ (initiation) from Guru and practice it. Q431: Babaji, what are the weapons of mind? Answer: Son, the weapons which the mind uses against a human being are as follows: Kam (lust), Krodh (anger), Lobh (greed), Moh (attachment), and Ahankar (pride or ego). Q432: Babaji, what are the type people that may feel the need of adopting a Guru? Answer: Son, persons who have studied Guru Granth Sahib and other religious scriptures or the works of the Saints; and those who are eager to find God, feel the need of 263

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adopting a Guru. This is a universal law. Saints tell us we should take the support of Shabad Guru. Shabad Guru can be attained with the help of a contemporary Guru or Spiritual Master - whatever you wish to call Him. When Guru manifests himself inside the disciple, he is called Satguru. After that he becomes Shabad Guru. When we associate with this Shabad Guru, we can go to Anami Desh and unite with the Almighty. Guru Amar Das Ji has said: O’ Nanak, by meditating on the Living Master, I have attained the status of immortality. Adi Granth 1247

Shri Guru Arjun Dev Ji has also said: How may I meet my Master, the King - the Lord of the Universe? Is there any Saint, who can bestow such celestial peace and show me the Way to Him? Adi Granth 204

Q433: Babaji, how should a satsangi celebrate his birthday? Answer: Son, on his birthday, a satsangi should listen to satsang and should devote more time to Bhajan-Simran, but we should also take care of our social obligations. Birthdays should be celebrated on the day when Naamdan was given. I have many disciples who celebrate their birthday on the day they had received the Naamdan. Q434: Babaji, I live in Canada. My husband used to take wine and non-vegetarian food. I wanted to stop him from 264

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drinking as it was affecting his health, but he put a condition down that ‘if I would also take non-vegetarian food, he would leave wine.’ For the sake of his health I started taking nonvegetarian food. Babaji please tell me whether I should have given priority to my religious beliefs, or to my husband’s health? Now I am always afraid that I have committed a sin, but if I would not have taken nonvegetarian food, I would be feeling bad about my husband’s health. Babaji, what will happen to my spiritual uplift? I have not yet taken Naamdan from you. Answer: Daughter, you have asked a very complicated personal question, similar to the way a disciple would lay his sufferings at his Guru’s door. Daughter, as far as taking non-vegetarian food is concerned, this is totally adverse to religious ethics. You have mentioned that you have started taking meat, but you have not mentioned whether your husband’s health has improved or not? Although you may be correct in your position, however, whatever is done against your conscience is a sin. You should pray to God so that your husband leaves the habit of drinking and his health improves. Your sincerity gives hope that your husband may become better, however, I must say that you have taken a wrong decision. You were getting closer to the Almighty when your husband’s drinking habits have pushed you into the darkness. Try to stay away from it. In my opinion, taking non-vegetarian food and drink is a sin, but we avoid criticizing the person who takes it. Thus it is not at all correct, and doesn’t suit your thinking. Q435: Babaji, I have stopped drinking, eating meat, eggs, 265

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etc., but sometimes I have an inclination to have some beer as I wish to have a cold drink. Please guide me. Answer: Son, everybody knows that wine is not at all good for us. All the intoxicating substances like wine, beer and other such items are prohibited. Son, mind is an enemy which coerces us to indulge in undesirable activities. To control it is a herculean task. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji has said ‘that he would believe someone who said that he conquered the whole world; and believe someone who said that he drank the entire ocean; but if someone said he controlled his mind, he would absolutely not believe it.’ In the Bani it has been said: If you conquer the mind, you conquer the world. Therefore, try and control your desires. Try to follow your conscience as it makes correct decisions; and will lead you in a right direction. Before starting any work just think (deeply) for few minutes and ask your conscience; you will get a reply. Swami ji Maharaj has said this regarding the mind: How far should I go on depicting the crookedness of mind? It pays no heed to the words of Guru. Sarbachan 11:1:1

Q436: Babaji, I live in America. I want to get initiated from you because I find you charismatic, but I cannot give up meat and eggs. Can I get Naamdan from you anyway? Answer: Daughter, when you will carefully consider your 266

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question, you will yourself find it confusing. At the outset you have mentioned that you are interested in taking Naamdan from me and that you are conversant with all the rules of Sant Mat; however in the same breath you have put the condition that you cannot give up meat and eggs. This means your affection is not genuine. In genuine love there are no demands or conditions. When conditions are imposed it is not genuine. Therefore you should leave meat, eggs and other non-vegetarian food items. Those who cannot leave these things are not accepted to take Nam. Q437: Babaji, I am educated and trying to find a job; but all in vain. My family is facing a lot of problems and I am fed up with my life. Please help me. Answer: Son, since you are educated and unemployed, you are bound to get frustrated. You don’t want a so called menial job, and you are not getting a job you consider appropriate. In addition, your unemployment is a major concern to your family. You see, any job, like selling eatables on the roadside, also yields good income. You can get feedback from a roadside vendor about job prospects. You will be surprised to know that a roadside vendor earns a handsome income and is quite satisfied with it. He has accepted the fact that doing hard work is not a sin. Any labor done by hard work and honesty is not low or degraded but has its own dignity. Q438: Babaji, it is often seen that we get what we don’t want, and don’t get what we desire. Why is this so? 267

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Answer: Son, the exercise of doing deeds and actions is in our hands, but its result or fruit depends upon the wish of God, not our own. Our success or failure also depends upon the Karma theory. Some of our achievements depend upon kriyaman karma (day to day karmas), and others on our prarabdh karma (destiny karmas). Let me give you an example: ‘You are going home with your salary and on the way you stop near a tap to drink water. You keep your bag containing money near the tap, however, after having a drink you forget your money and return home without it’. You earned your salary due to kriyaman karmas, but you forgot it and somebody else took it. Maybe you had stolen a thousand rupees in your previous birth which you have now repaid in this birth through this incident. It is written in the Granth Sahib: In the month of Katak, do good deeds. Do not try to blame anyone else Adi Granth 135

Q439: Babaji, who is the first Guru of a person? Answer: Son, the first Guru of a person is his mother. She gives birth to him looks after him and also teaches him to speak, walk and write. It has been mentioned in my verses: A mother is like the cool shade, if anyone could know it. A mother is the first master; even PHD’s would fail in this effort. The secret of the success of the children is due to the mothers blessing. When we leave her companionship our fate is broken.

Q440: Babaji, on what factors does the Spiritual Progress of a Satsangi depend? 268

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Answer: Son, spiritual progress depends on many factors and involves a complete process. For instance, drain water firstly goes to a sewage line. The sewage line is connected to the river, and the river flows out into the ocean. In a similar fashion, Spirituality starts by taking the Five Holy Names (Initiation or Nam). After that, Simran is done and the first stage is reached, which is called ‘Sahansdal Kanwal’. Then by the practice of meditation the second, third and final stages are also reached. On further progress, the stage of Alakh, Agam and Anami are attained; and ultimately we get united with God just as a drop of water merges with the ocean and becomes one with it. Q441: Babaji, Saints love their disciples, but it is also said that they are beyond worldly bonds [attachments] like love, affection, and sympathy. It sounds contradictory to me. Answer: Son, as long as Saints are in human form, they have to maintain worldly relationships. Saints have two aspects in this world. They are doing work inherently without the Sangat’s knowledge (in a Sehaj Awastha state), and when they address the Sangat, they have to speak in common man’s language, so it can be understood by the masses. Q442: Babaji, what should a Satsangi do after taking Namdaan? Answer: Son, you have taken Nam as you have thought it to be beneficial. You must have known its importance and essence from Saints and the Sangat. 269

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Now, don’t waste your time. Spend the maximum amount of time on Bhajan-Simran, Satsang, and Darshan. Try and lead a pure life in everything you do. After taking Namdaan, a disciple should follow the instructions of his Guru. He should attend Satsang regularly and should try to stay in good company. Q443: Babaji, does a devoted and committed disciple hear the ‘Shabad Dhun’ even while doing daily chores? Answer: Daughter, when we get attached with the inner spiritual world, there is a constant pull inward to hear the Dhun (Divine Sound). Thus one hears that Dhun while doing daily chores also, because it is always playing inside. It is like electrical power, which is always present, however, we get its benefit only when we switch it on. When we are thinking about worldly matters, our link with the inner spiritual world breaks; but when we do Dhyan we again get connected and start hearing the Shabad Dhun. Tulsi ji has said: There is a Sound coming from above - calling to you.

Q444: Babaji, I have retired from Government service. I have used my provident fund and also sold my old house to build a new house for my children. I spent my pension on my sons and their families. However, now my sons and daughter-in-laws are harassing my wife and me. In spite of this we are still spending money on them. It is said that the children can be undutiful but parents cannot. In spite of doing my duties towards them, I am not being treated respectfully, which upsets my balance. Please guide me. I need your counsel. 270

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Answer: Son, you seem to be a wise and honest person. A wise person helps his sons, wife and relatives within his limitations. You have offered all your belongings, which only a virtuous person can do. If you would have asked this question to me before retirement, I would have given you better suggestions, so that your family could remain happier. For instance, if you are giving your child 200 rupees, but after one year you reduce the amount given by 100 rupees, he is bound to revolt and refuse to take the money. But if you start by giving him 75 rupees he will remain happy when the money is increased. Since you have already distributed your property, I cannot intervene. Let bygones be bygones [forget past offenses]. If they are happy, it is fair enough; but if they are not, don’t worry about it. It should be noted that a pension is meant for old age. Q445: Babaji, how should we sit in Satsang? Answer: Son, in Satsang or in any social gathering, we should sit in a disciplined manner. Before sitting a person should see where he can sit comfortably. If you are unable to sit even for half an hour at a stretch, then you can take support of a wall, chair, etc. If you are moving frequently in front of preacher, then it will disturb both the preacher as well as the people sitting around you. When sitting in Satsang, your eyes should be open and your focus should be totally on the Guru. Try to stop your mind from wandering, and also avoid listening to unnecessary talk. While looking constantly at Guru and listening to Satsang, try and get absorbed in him. Take care while you are sitting in Satsang and also try and sit crossed legged (Choukri) if possible. 271

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Q446: Babaji, what factors should be kept in mind to adopt the True Religion? Answer: Son, the essence of all the religions is the same, which is Sacred. Try not to get entangled in the jargon of particular religions. It will only confuse you. Adopt the religion of ‘Humanity’ and try your best not to hurt others by your behavior. Reflect the religion in which you were born and brought up in. Q447: Babaji, what is the significance of ‘Simran’? Answer: Son, Simran is a Great Power which helps us in our Spiritual Journey within while traveling from the first stage to the Anami stage. Simran helps us to associate with Satguru, and Satguru helps us to associate with Shabad Guru. And this Simran ultimately is transmuted into Shabad. Then the drop merges into the ocean and becomes the ocean. Q448: Babaji, which names should be used for Simran? Answer: Son, the Simran of the Five Holy Names which Guru gives at the time of initiation. Kabir Sahib has stated: The Unstruck Melody of the Panch Shabad, the Five Primal Sounds, vibrates and resounds. I dwell with the Lord of the World. Kabir your slave performs this Arti, this lamp-lit worship service for You, O’ Formless Lord of Nirvana. Adi Granth 1350

Q449: Babaji, I stay here in England, and the people say that vegetarians die at a young age. Is this true? 272

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Answer: Daughter, first of all we should understand that we are not eternal beings. We have to die one day, whether our life is long or short. It is important to note that India is a land of great Saints and here people are taught the method of uniting with God and freeing themselves of all bondages. We should lead our life while acquiring this type attitude. You must have read in newspapers that vegetarians remain healthier and lead longer lives? In India and abroad there are many vegetarians who lead long lives, which proves that taking vegetarian food doesn’t shorten your life. Q450: Babaji, how can we appreciate the greatness of the Almighty? Answer: Son, only that person can appreciate the greatness of God who is pure and wants to get united with God; one who regularly does Bhajan-Simran hears the Divine Sound at Sahansdal Kanwal, then ultimately travels to Alakh, Agam and Anami uniting with the Lord. Whenever we praise the Almighty we should not think of any other person, we should concentrate only on our Guru. This is the actual way to praise God. Q451: Babaji, I have taken Namdaan from Tarn Taran and want my family members to take Naamdan from there also. Answer: Son, It is destined whether a person will receive Naamdan or not and also from where he shall receive it. 273

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Q452: Babaji, what is the message of Saints? Answer: Son, the main message the Saints bring is the ‘Unification of our soul with the Almighty’. They rarely give other messages. They give the method of ‘how a soul can get united with God and freed from the cycle of eightyfour,’ and ‘how a person should love his fellow beings.’ They use the example of a husband and wife, and explain that if a husband and wife don’t love each other, how then can they love their parents, brothers and sisters? Lastly the Saints give us the message that we should give the utmost importance to our Guru who blesses us with Nam. It is stated in Guru Granth Sahib: The True Guru is the All-Knowing Primal Being. He shows us our True Home within the home of the self. The Panch Shabad, the Five Primal Sounds, resonate and resound within; the insignia of the Shabad is revealed there, vibrating gloriously. Adi Granth 1291

The Panch Shabad, the five primal sounds, echo the perfect Sound Current of the Naad. The wondrous, amazing Unstruck Melody vibrates. The Saintly people play there with the Lord. They remain totally detached, absorbed in the Supreme Lord God. Adi Granth 888

This is the message of the Saints. There can be many phrases and examples explained regarding this, but the ultimate reality is to get initiated, practice Bhajan-Simran, and get united with God. 274

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Q453: Babaji, kindly tell us something about the mind. Answer: Son, in the scriptures, ‘mind’ has been undefined and unexplained. It is not easy to describe it. Mind is the agent of Maya and Kal. Muslim and Christian Saints have called it the ‘devil’s agent.’ The physical body of man is inert. The soul, which is a part of Akal Purush, provides life to this body. Due to the various kinds of vices, the soul has forgotten her true nature. Soul is part and parcel of God, but still she is unable to meet her Lord. It is due to this mind. Mind has both active and passive aspects. It works as a link between the physical body and the consciousness. Mind always leads a person downwards. It belongs to Trikuti and is made up of the harmonious part of each of the five elements of earth, water, fire, air and ether; but is actually above them but below the conscious soul. It is fond of sensual pleasures, and although it takes its energy (life) from the soul, it has overpowered it. As it is originally inert, it naturally tries to live in physical things and pleasures. The element of spirituality is not inherent in it, but when Guru blesses it, it becomes invaluable. It is very unstable, and that is why it tries to sidetrack a person in all directions. Within a fraction of a second it travels from one corner of the universe to the other; its speed is unmatched. It is never still and keeps wandering all the time. The topic of the mind is very complicated, difficult to explain. In Hindi, it is called ‘Dil’, ‘Chit, ‘Jee’, ‘Dimag’, and ‘Ghat’ also. Mind has three parts: ‘Pindi Man’, ‘Andi Man’ and ‘Brahmandi Man’. ‘Pindi Man’ is inert and degraded. When soul is below our two eyes, this Pindi Man is 275

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controlling it. ‘Pindi Man’ drives the senses and its direction is toward worldly pleasures. It produces hindrances on the Path of Spirituality. It is knotted with the physical body. When the soul reaches ‘Sahansdal Kanwal’ then we rid ourselves of Sthool Man (lower mind) and Sthool Shareer (Physical body). There the soul gets Andi Shareer (Astral body) and Andi Man (Astral mind). The nature of this mind is introverted and better than lower mind; yet here also the subtle veil of Maya is covering the soul and stops it from moving upwards. Above this in Trikuti, the Sthool and Suksham veils have left the soul but Karan Shareer (causal body) is still there. Here the soul is covered by causal mind. Causal mind drives the subtle body, and controls its subtle aspects. It drives the whole world from the stage of Brahm. Here pure Maya is having its effect. Although causal mind is there with the soul, the soul thinks that it has gotten rid of mind; but these regions are not yet free from mind and Maya. Above this, when soul reaches Daswan Dwar and takes a dip in Amritsar Sarovar then it becomes totally free from mind and Maya. Q454: Babaji, does food become Prashad when simran is done while cooking or eating it? Answer: Son, food remains food after all. Good or pure food has good effects on our mind. By having pure food our concentration goes towards ‘Gurudev’. While eating food if Simran is not done, it may choke our throat. It’s alright if Simran is not done verbally, but it should be in our conscious mind. Food is already pure, but our negative thoughts can make it impure; therefore we 276

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should always do Simran while cooking. It will have a positive effect on the person who is taking it. You must have seen also that generally the Saints do Simran before taking food. Q455: Babaji, is the soul of an initiated person who has died visible to others? Answer: Son, we don’t believe in such things, but there are four stages: ‘Jagrit’, ‘Swapan’, ‘Sushupt’ and ‘Turiya’. In ‘Jagrit’ stage our soul is in a wakeful state. When we dream it is known as ‘Swapan Awastha’ and the dream may be related to any old incident of our life, but you may not remember it. You may wonder why it came into your dreams. Son, it may be related to our Kriyaman, Sinchit or Prarabdh Karma. Often our soul gets linked with our Prarabdh Karma and we see those scenes, therefore don’t get bogged down with such matters and waste your time. Concentrate on Guru, do Bhajan-Simran and get associated with the Almighty. Regarding your question, it is also influenced by your previous births. You must have had deep love and affection towards that person and that love has left a deep impression on your soul. That is why the person is coming into your vision. There is no question of seeing the soul of a person who is initiated. If a person is telling you that he has seen the soul of someone, how could he have recognized him? It is not possible to recognize any soul as the soul does not have any shape or size. It is a creation of your own mind and your own values. Q456: Babaji, there is a shabad that goes like this “Mathe 277

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tilak hath mala banan. Logan Ram khilona janan. (People apply ceremonial marks to their foreheads, hold malas in their hands, and wear religious robes. They think that the Lord is a plaything.) What is the meaning of this? Answer: Son, this is a very significant verse of Sant Kabir Sahib, which has been mentioned in Guru Granth Sahib also. Its meaning is that ‘In order to meet God, people often practice ceremonies and rituals.’ The actual way to meet God is to take Namdaan and the Shelter of a Perfect Guru; and after receiving Namdaan, practice it. Unfortunately most people don’t follow this method, and instead try to attain God in outward rituals. People will apply ‘tilak’ to their forehead, or take to using a rosary, or wear special religious garb. They think these practices will help them to meet God. You see, people are taking God for granted, thinking that He can be manipulated by outward rituals and ceremonies, just as a child is satisfied when given a toy. Kabir Sahib has criticized these outward rituals in his verses. At the end of this verse he says, ‘I bow my head before my Guru,’ and ‘I always try to make my Guru happy. Only by this method can I find peace and happiness and be able to meet Him.’ I worship the True Guru. Forever and ever, I surrender to Him. By such service, I find peace in the Court of the Lord. Adi Granth 1158

Q457: Babaji, who can guide and lead us to unite our soul with God? 278

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Answer: Son, we have different guides to guide us at every step. If we want to go to the train station and don’t know the way, then we have to ask someone to take us, and we will reach the station. However, as far as the path to God is concerned, we have to ask somebody who has already met Him. We have to make him our leader and guide. We should get our doubts cleared by Him. He alone can lead us on the right path to meet God. Q458: Babaji, what is ‘food’ for a [human] soul? Answer: Son, this question is very significant. Ever since this world was created people have been searching for the correct method of uniting their souls with God and Kabir has explained it in this way: “I came in Satyug and at that time following the Path of Truth was the main method of meeting God. When I came in Treta Yug the procedure of sacrificial ceremony was the main method of meeting God. In Dwapar Yug prayer to God was the main method.” Then Kabir says, “In Kalyug practice of the Nam which we receive from Satguru is the main method of meeting God.” Sant Kabir Sahib and Guru Nanak Dev Ji have both said that in Kalyug practicing Nam is the main method of uniting the soul with God. Guru Ravi Das Ji Maharaj has said in His Bani: In the Golden Age of Sat Yuga, was Truth; in the Silver Age of Treta Yuga was charitable feasts; in the Brass Age of Dwapar Yuga there was worship or prayer. In those three ages, people held to these three ways; but in the Iron Age of Kali Yuga, the Name of the Lord is your only Support. Adi Granth 346

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Son, from the very beginning, practicing Nam has been the main food for the soul. This Nam has created the whole world. In the Bani it has been also mentioned. Everything comes from Naam - the Name of the Lord. Without the True Guru, Naam is not experienced. The Word of the Guru’s Shabad is the sweetest and most sublime essence; but without tasting it, its flavor cannot be experienced. Adi Granth 753

Shri Gur Nanak Dev Ji has said: The Word created this earth. The Word created the sky. Light is because of the Word. The Word is behind the existence of the entire universe. Nanak says: the Word is present in everything. (Pran Sangali)

Q459: Babaji, what are the factors which attract or pull a person to go inside and begin walking the spiritual path? Answer: Son, it hardly matters whether it is inside or outside. Even in the outside world special conditions are needed in order to be attracted towards anything. People stray from their route if they pass a beautiful girl going across their path. In the same way there are many factors which can attract us. If we are in the company of a person who is attuned with the Almighty, who knows the way to meet Him, who attracts us with his preaching; then we can develop the inner urge to start our spiritual journey within. Without a 280

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‘pull’ neither can we do Simran nor adore God. When we practice Nam as per the instructions of our Guru and see the Divine Light and hear the Divine Sound, then we will be attracted towards the Spiritual Path within which will help us to reach Sachkhand and Anami Desh. The deep desire and inner urge to meet the Almighty will help and guide us to meet Him. Q460: Babaji, if somebody is moving on the wrong track, should we caution him? Answer: Son, firstly how do you know that he is moving on the wrong track? You are not acquainted with his life. If you feel that the person has indulged in alcohol and gambling, did he ask you whether he is on the right track or the wrong track? I think giving any suggestions in that regard is useless. When he is ready to listen, then you can give him proper suggestions; but don’t argue with him. If you have faith in yourself to correct him, then go ahead and give him honest advice. Q461: Babaji, can a Satsangi get relieved of all his karmas in the present life? Answer: Son, it is possible only if a Satsangi prays earnestly to his Satguru that he doesn’t want wealth, children, respect or any other worldly luxuries; and that he only desires Enlightenment in this birth. If Guru wishes, he can make his disciple dedicate himself to physical, mental, monetary, and Surat Shabad Sewa; so that his karmas are cleared and Guru does not let him take rebirth. 281

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Q462: Babaji, is it necessary for a disciple to maintain a distance from the physical form of the Guru to progress Spiritually? Answer: Son, we can talk to a Gurudev only in the physical form. In order to get connected with Guru, it is always beneficial to visualize the physical form of Guru. After some spiritual progress in the next stage, the physical features of the Guru manifests within. There he becomes our Satguru. Then in the next stage he becomes our Shabad Guru. It is written in the Guru Granth Sahib: The Guru is the Giver of the Shabad; my mind is imbued with it, and I remain absorbed in the Lord. Adi Granth 601

The Name of the Lord is the boat; but without the boatman (Shabad Guru) one cannot get across. Adi Granth 833

The Shabad is the Guru, and the soul is disciple. Adi Granth 943

In spite of us still having a physical existence when in the upper regions, there is no direct connection with it. In this way we reach our destination from where we have originated. This is the actual path to spiritual progress. Q463: Babaji, is it only after we have cleared all our karmic accounts that we can attain to the Almighty? Answer: Son, it is true that we can only meet the Almighty 282

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once we are finished with all our Karmas. The disciple doesn’t want to be reborn. Through the anecdotes of the various satsangis that we have read, it is shown that when Guru is so pleased by the services rendered by a disciple, He agrees that they will not be given any rebirth, even though his disciples are unable to devote time to BhajanSimran because of the Sewa (selfless service) they do day and night at the Dera. However, Saints have said that until a human being gets purified from inside and gets connected to his Guru within, he cannot reach the abode of God. It is also true that Guru does not want to give him rebirth. After his death the Guru may help him to do Bhajan at Sahansdal Kanwal; after that he helps him to do Bhajan at Trikuti, and after that he is taken to Daswan Dwar. He bathes in Amritsar Sarovar where his soul becomes as pure as a swan. After that, there are no more hindrances. As the other human beings go, similarly Guru takes his disciple up by showing him the scenes of Bhanwargufa (the spiritual road being the same for everyone). In this way, Guru takes the disciple to Sachkhand after making him do meditation in the upper regions. Q464: Babaji, what are the obstacles that prevent us from meeting a Guru? Answer: Son, the greatest obstacle that prevents us from uniting with God is our own mind. Shri Guru Ram Das Ji Maharaj has said in Guru Granth Sahib: Each and every moment, my mind roams and rambles, and runs all over the place. It does not stay in its own home even for an instant. Adi Granth 1179

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Q465: Babaji, can our Prarabdh Karmas (Fate Karmas) be liquidated? Answer: Son, whatever Karmas are there in our account, whether Prarabdh, Sanchit, or Kriyaman; until we are through with all these Karmas, we cannot reach the abode of God. Through Bhajan-Simran all our karmas get liquidated. Q466: Babaji, when we unite with the Lord within by connecting ourselves with the Shabad, what is the benefit to us? Answer: Son, after receiving Naamdan and practicing Bhajan-Simran, a soul unites with the Almighty. It is just like a droplet of water merging into the ocean. In the same way, when the soul merges into the Lord, it becomes one with Him. It forgets its own identity and existence. Q467: Babaji, what is the difference between a ‘Manmukh’ and a ‘Gurmukh?’ Answer: Son, the literal meaning of manmukh is a person who is inclined towards his mind. A person who follows his mind is called a manmukh. Manmukh people are in love with worldly amenities. A manmukh takes birth and dies with all types of unfulfilled worldly desires. A manmukh adores his mind, and worldly affairs, and runs after sensual pleasures. He is always stuck in all kinds of worldly rituals and doesn’t respect the True Naam. He cannot understand the greatness of the physical form of Guru and due to this, he always suffers. A person who is 284

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not connected to the Nam inside is a manmukh. A manmukh does not believe in the existence of God and is always stuck up in his own thoughts. He is a fickle minded person and he has nothing to do with the Reality. Contrary to this, a person who follows his Guru is called a Gurumukh. A Gurumukh always tries to praise his Guru. A person is called a Gurumukh who gets initiated by his Guru and then turns away from worldly desires, and gets connected to Naam. A person who has dedicated himself to his Guru physically, mentally and monetarily and gets strongly attached to his Guru, is a Gurumukh. A person who is offering services to his Guru day and night, who is always practicing Naam, and always praying to his Guru, is called a Gurumukh. A Gurumukh, after getting initiated from Satguru, takes His shelter and becomes Shabad Roop (Form of Shabad). He is rid of the cycle of birth and death and does not take rebirth. A Gurumukh is a person who always adores his Guru and remains attached to Him. He completely surrenders himself to the Guru. According to Sant Mat, the soul that has reached Daswan Dwar and has been able to remove the three veils from his soul i.e., Sthool, Sukshum and Karan, (physical, astral, and causal) is a Gurumukh. Q468: Babaji, what is the position of mind, and where do you find it in the body? Answer: Son, mind is a part of Brahm and its source is in Trikuti. The soul is a part of God and its source is in Satlok and Anami Desh. In the body, mind and soul are residing just behind the eyes. The mind, soul, God and Naam are all Powers, and as such, do not have any shape or colour. 285

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Q469: Babaji, it is said that the mind of a child is pure; so why then is the person not initiated at an early age? Answer: Son, it is true that the mind of a child is very pure. Should someone, at a very early age get initiation, who because of his previous karmas now reaches the highest stage in his Spiritual Journey, once that soul experiences that spiritual internal bliss, it would lose all interest in worldly affairs. This could very much disturb the parents and create complications in his worldly life. That is why small children are not initiated. Q470: Babaji, it is said that Spiritual Treasure is always present inside a person and that the person receives this Treasure only when God desires it. Why then are we always told to do Bhajan-Simran? Answer: Son, in the Spiritual Discourse delivered in Satsang today it was said that everything happens according to His Will. This Will is invisible to us. Son, Saints explain to us about Karmas, that they are of three types: Kriyaman, Sanchit and Prarabdh. Kriyaman Karma is that karma which we are performing in this very birth. Prarabdh Karmas are those karmas which we had performed in our previous birth and whose consequences we are facing presently. Sanchit Karma is the storehouse of all the karmas of our previous births. Saints explain that a Spiritual Treasure can be found within us, but one can only attain or achieve it after getting initiation from a Saint by doing the digging of BhajanSimran. Although this Treasure is buried within us, it cannot be attained without Bhajan-Simran. It is similar to the 286

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process of deriving Ghee from milk. First the milk is heated and curd is made from it. Then the curd is churned and butter is taken out from it. After that butter is heated to obtain the Ghee. Similarly through Bhajan-Simran our soul gets purified within and starts the Spiritual Journey and later on attains the Treasure. This is not possible without the blessings of a Guru. We have to take Shelter of some great Saint, take initiation from Him and practice Naam given by Him; then we can attain this Treasure. Guru Granth Sahib has stated: Within this body are the nine continents of the earth, its markets, cities and streets. Within this body are the nine treasures of the Naam. Contemplating the Word of Guru’s Shabad they are obtained. Within the body, are Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva - from whom the whole world has emanated. Adi Granth 754

Within this cave, there is an inexhaustible treasure. Within this cave, the Invisible and Infinite Lord abides. Adi Granth 124

Q471: Babaji, while I was getting initiated I saw a person lying down. Was it that he was affected by the Nam? Answer: Son, as a photograph is clicked by a camera, even if the person falls asleep, it neither affects the camera nor the camera man; another example would be a patient who takes medicine from a doctor and goes to sleep, but still the effect of the medicine remains. So it is with Nam, It does Its job (of initiating) and whether affected outwardly 287

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or not, the effect (Nam) remains. Thus you should think about yourself. Where was your concentration while you were being initiated? Instead of gazing with love at your Guru, your concentration was somewhere else. While getting initiated, one should try to keep his focus and attention on the form of the Guru. At that time we should not visualize anyone except our Guru. You should feel that you are alone with your Guru and nobody is around. Q472: Babaji, what should we do so that our faith and devotion towards Guru is not shaken? Answer: Son, the domain of Kal is so vast that it tries to entangle human beings in it one way or the other. Swami Ji says: Kal has badly beguiled the world. How far should I go on describing it? Sarbachan 8:17:1

When people travel by road they face problems like traffic jams or even accidents, but if they travel by aeroplane in the sky, they are not affected by such problems. Don’t entangle yourself in such matters. Just concentrate on Bhajan-Simran. Son, the great Saints have always professed that the domain and influence of Kal is so great that we have to get out of this and concentrate at the eye centre. This can be possible only after receiving Naamdan, repeating the five Holy Names, and practicing Bhajan-Simran. There is no substitute or alternative method. Q473: Babaji, tea and coffee are intoxicants in nature. Do 288

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you think they act as obstacles in Bhajan-Simran? Answer: Son, tea and coffee is consumed by all. They do not create any obstacles in Bhajan-Simran. Q474: Babaji, I do my Bhajan-Simran but I don’t see any results. Could you shed some light on this? Answer: Son, I agree with your statement that in spite of devoting time to Bhajan Simran, you are not getting the expected results. The fact is that we do not practice the method correctly as explained by the Saints. We hardly sit in Bhajan for two minutes before our mind digresses into worldly pleasures, disputes, love matters or friendship. The worst part of it is that even after sitting in Bhajan for an hour, our mind is not concentrated within. It keeps wandering, so no question of seeing the form of the Guru within even arises. We only note the time spent in Bhajan, but neglect the actual Spiritual advancement within - how long did we visualize the form of the Guru within, or how much supreme power was generated? It’s just like putting a blender in a bowl of curd but not actually churning it. If curd is not churned, you cannot get butter and certainly not the ultimate ghee; so correct effort is needed in any work to get the required results. Q475: Babaji, if a blind or deaf person comes regularly to Satsang, will he be benefitted? Answer: Yes, my son. As long as he is attending Satsang, he is free from any evil or bad thoughts. A person is affected by his thought process to a great extent. He is suffering 289

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because of his previous karmas. Now he is purely at the discretion of the Almighty. Q476: Babaji, is touching others feet correct amongst relatives? Answer: Son, letting others touch your feet weakens your spiritual power. We should never generate the feeling of ‘making’ others touch our feet. People touch your feet either treating you as an elder or as a person of great importance. Whatever one does is right for him, but he is touching your feet because of your ‘superior position’. In regards to the Spiritual Path, letting others touch your feet is not right, as it weakens your Spiritual Power. There are spiritual stories that prove by touching the feet of a powerful person people tend to steal their power. If others touch our feet, we could also be filled with ego and get a superiority complex. So it’s better not to let people touch your feet. Q477: Babaji, if someone verbally touches our feet by saying ‘Pairin Peina’ (I touch your feet) or we do so, does it also have an effect? Answer: Son, don’t try to split hairs whether it effects you or not. The feeling that you have at the time is what counts. It all depends upon the person’s feeling or intention. Q478: Babaji, please explain what surrendering yourself to the will of Satguru means? Answer: Son, it means to unconditionally surrender and 290

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submit yourself to the Will of Satguru by driving the ego and I-ness out of yourself. Q479: Babaji, who is it that can help us to cross the higher stages in our Spiritual Journey? Answer: Son, there is no doubt that the Saints who have attained the destination within were graced and blessed by their Guru, and they dedicated themselves to BhajanSimran. One has to take the refuge of a Guru and should have implicit faith in him in order to attain the higher stages of Spiritual development. Q480: Babaji, after doing Simran if we don’t do Bhajan, will we reach the upper stages? Answer: Son, Simran is done before Dhyan (contemplating on the form of Guru). First of all, we should regularly attend Satsang. Then you have to practice Simran and gain perfection at it. After that, you can switch over to Dhyan. Try to visualize the form of the Guru while doing Simran. Without Simran, Dhyan, and Bhajan, we cannot attain the higher levels in our Spiritual Journey and get connected to the Lord. Q481: Babaji, some gurus try to misguide people by saying that two or three evil spirits are within the person and he owes money to them. The spirits want their money back, so please donate something in their name. Is this right or wrong? Answer: Son, please ask questions related to your personal 291

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experiences. Don’t get bogged down and waste your time on such insignificant topics. Q482: Babaji, does a person remain conscious of his surroundings when he is visualizing the Spiritual Scenes inside? Answer: Son, when a person attains such a stage he becomes unconscious of his surroundings. He is detached from the external world and does not want to lose a single moment enjoying the spiritual bliss inside. His blood continues to flow normally. The person gets so much engrossed in the astral form of his Guru that any other external form becomes meaningless to him. I will give you a worldly example. A boy riding a cycle is so much enthralled by the beauty of a girl he passes that he cannot take his eyes off her and meets with an accident. When a person by his spiritual practice goes inside and visualizes the form of Guru, he experiences bliss beyond expression and he is of course detached with the external world. He is unconscious only of his outer surroundings, but internally he is with his Guru, the Almighty. Q483: Babaji, would you please suggest ten measures I may resort to in order to continue my Spiritual Practice constantly (at all times)? Answer: Son, to continuously embrace Spiritual Practice, the following are ten measures. 1. The first step is to visualize Guru’s form inside. 2. While practicing one should try to detach oneself from the external surroundings. 292

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3. The place where you do Bhajan-Simran should be away from your bed. It should be a permanent place free of any external disturbances so that you can concentrate properly. 4. Faith and devotion is needed for this purpose. If faith and devotion exist, one can retain Guru’s form inside. We can then move ahead to the next stage if Guru’s form remains with us. On the way you will come across many obstacles, and at times they are frightening also, but with the vision and guiding hand of the Guru, we move ahead towards our destination. 5. In order to get connected to the Almighty or the Guru’s form we need to adopt good thoughts; and in order to adopt good thoughts, all negative thoughts should be abandoned. 6. Food plays a very important role in the Spiritual Path. Adopt a vegetarian diet and positive thinking. These will help you to reach the destination. 7. We should adopt the positive aspects of continence, forgiveness, contentment, detachment and humility and we should avoid the five negative attributes of lust, anger, greed, attachment, ego or pride. 8. Based upon one’s ability, one should spend one-tenth of ones earnings on the needy and other charitable work. 9. Negative thoughts act as an obstacle to spiritual progress. So develop a positive attitude. 10. Leaving your own desires, you should surrender and remain in His Will. This is possible only when we come out of the boundaries of I-Ness. Q484: Babaji, what is it that keeps us trapped in darkness and ignorance? 293

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Answer: Son, the only thing that keeps us in darkness is our ego. Mind has ego and that ego brings ‘I-ness’ (self interest) into us. Once we leave ego then we will be successful in all respects. Try to live at the Will of the Guru. Q485: Babaji, what are the basic principles of Santmat? Answer: Son, Santmat does not get engrossed in customs and rituals. It emphasizes firm belief in the Almighty who is the Ultimate Truth. It shows us the path to attain Him by getting initiated from a Perfect Living Master. The one who knows the True Lord God, is called the True Guru. In His Company, the Sikh is saved, O Nanak, singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord. Adi Granth 286

Santmat explains that you can attain the Almighty by getting initiated by a Living Guru and practicing BhajanSimran. The True Guru cuts away the bonds of His Sikhs. The Sikh of the Guru abstains from evil deeds. The True Guru gives His Sikhs the wealth of Naam. The Sikh of the Guru is very fortunate. Adi Granth 286

Santmat teaches that one should have implicit faith and devotion toward his Satguru, and should completely surrender himself to Him. By following the path shown by Him, we can reach our destination. The real meaning of 294

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Santmat is to adopt and believe in the Teachings of Great Saints. Q486: Babaji, in your Satsang we have heard that we can connect ourselves with the Almighty once we have been initiated, and by the practice of Bhajan-Simran we are able to open the Shiv Netra. However, I must ask this, Shiv himself did not attain the Almighty so how is it that we can? Answer: Son, the Third Eye is called the Shiv Netra. It is also known as Tisra Til, Divya Chakshu, Single Eye, Daswan Dwar, Nukta-e-Swayeda. This has nothing to do with Shiv Ji Maharaj (Shiva). You need to open the Shiv Netra to see the image of your Guru. He alone can lead you to the Path of unification with the Almighty. Q487: Babaji, can a person start Bhajan-Simran on his own after getting initiated or this is purely at the discretion of the Guru? Answer: Son, whatever a person does is at the Will of God. The Will is governed by the Almighty whom we call Nam. It is at His discretion that a person generates the desire to get initiated. By getting married to a lady who has received initiation, the husband also gets the opportunity to be initiated. A person sits for Bhajan-Simran by the mercy of the Almighty; otherwise the powers of Kal (running after women or getting stuck in the vicious circle of illusion) create many obstacles that we get entangled in. However, a person cannot use the excuse of saying that he will do Bhajan-Simran when God wants him to. There is an old 295

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saying that “God helps those who help themselves,” which means that if we don’t make sincere efforts, how can we expect the Lord to help us? Thus we can get positive results only through hard work and dedication. Q488: Babaji, can we change the ‘Prarabdh?’ Answer: Son, Saints say that karma is of three kinds: Prarabdh, Sanchit, and Kriyaman. Whatever is destined or fated, we have to bear its consequences patiently. Through the power of Naam, the effect of the problems becomes negligible, or bearable, or less painful. Kriyaman karma is that which we sow now, and for which we will have to pay in future. So we should try to do good and noble deeds. It is stated in the Gurbani: As she has planted, so does she harvest; such is the field of karma. Adi Granth 134

The Great Saints can do anything, but they don’t interfere in the laws of the Almighty. They remain in God’s Will and advise and teach people to do the same. Q489: Babaji, at times we are able to resolve our major problems very patiently, but we become impatient in solving small matters. Why is it so? Answer: Son, you have already given the answer to your question. Major problems get resolved very patiently, but in solving small problems we lose our patience. When we cross the limits of our patience then it becomes a problem. Son, this is due to human nature or according to ones 296

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previous karmas. Q490: Babaji, at times a person after getting initiated leaves the world at an early age due to his Prarabdh. Can this be changed by the will of Guru? Answer: Son, as far as the will of Guru is concerned his will is the Almighty’s Will. Guru can do anything. In a Shabad of mine there is a line which says: Take the Nam of Radha Soami and practice it, then the cycle of karmas can be put off - Brahma, Shiv and Shakti are in the Will of Guru. Without this you cannot put off the cycle of karmas.

But Saints do not take Divine Law into their own hands. The tenth Guru Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Maharaj was the incarnation of the Almighty. He faced many problems but gave more importance to the Will of Almighty. You may come across many situations where descriptions of His powers have been told. For example, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji cut off the heads of five Sikhs and later replaced their heads and gave life back to them. Kabir Sahib also instilled life in a dead cow, and when Kamalis dead body was floating down the river Kabir Sahib instilled life back into it. So we have such examples portraying the greatness of the Saints. Gurus can do anything, but they avoid doing so because they believe in submission to the Will of the Lord. Q491: Babaji, I have taken Naamdan. Can I participate in politics? Answer: Son, as far as receiving Naamdan is concerned it 297

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was in your destiny. As far as politics is concerned, it is a totally different thing. After getting initiated, if you do Bhajan-Simran regularly, within five or six months your conscience will take you where you desire to go. Whether you should participate in politics or not, entirely depends upon your destiny, interest and desires. Santmat advices us to stay away from politics. In spite of treading the path of truth, Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was accused of misleading people, but he never left the true path of Santmat. He never felt bad when people accused him of misleading others. Q492: Babaji, is it necessary to accept the customs and rituals of the family after getting initiated? Answer: Son, as far as customs and rituals are concerned, there are many such rituals which may be of use to us if we believe in them. For instance, when you offer water to the sun, the reflection of the sun through the water falls on our eyes which are always beneficial. When you fast and don’t eat anything throughout the day, fasting helps to keep your body healthy and your stomach cleansed. These are beneficial from the health point of view but have nothing to do with the soul getting attached to the Almighty. By doing this, the result will be that you wanted to go eastwards but wound up going towards the west. Rituals and customs don’t get us connected to Almighty, but may help us to remain healthy. Q493: Babaji, in Satsang we have heard that if a person moves one step away from his Guru, the Guru in turn takes eleven steps backward. Is this true? 298

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Answer: Son, according to the principles of spirituality, the question itself is wrong. Once a person gets initiated from his Guru, Guru never moves away from him. His modus operandi is like a water tap. Any disciple can quench his thirst by taking water out from it. The tap never moves away nor does it deny giving water. A person who is thirsty can always quench his thirst. (If the tap itself moves, then one might say that it could move backward). Similarly, a Guru never moves away, but a novice disciple has a feeling that the Guru has moved away from him. He doesn’t understand this. You see, he himself has moved away from his Guru. So, you see son, your question is not correct. Q494: Babaji, if a person has received initiation from a Perfect Guru and after his demise his ashes are buried elsewhere, will his soul trouble anybody? Answer: Son, if a person has taken initiation from a Perfect Guru, after his death his soul is well taken care of by his Guru, and he takes rebirth at a destined place. As far as the remaining ashes are concerned, one needs only to take care that they don’t come underneath anybody’s feet (causing disrespect). They can either be submerged in the Ganges or in any other place. His soul will not be affected in any way from such rites and rituals. Q495: Babaji, a neighbor throws a lump of dough, dal (pulses), turmeric and black horse beans at someone’s house and says that he has done an evil magic spell and now nobody can stay in that house. Is this possible? Answer: Son, you have been constantly raising questions 299

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which have nothing to do with Santmat or the unification of the soul with the Almighty. Nothing ever happens by throwing turmeric, horse beans, and all that. If you really want to test this just drop in the desired quantity of turmeric, horse beans and rice at our Dera, and claim that black magic has been performed. I will be the first person to consume it personally. You have engrossed yourself so much in these negative thoughts that even if you don’t consume these items you will still harm yourself. Q496: Babaji, a soul getting Initiation and practicing Bhajan-Simran, who has reached the destination of Sachkhand - after the ‘desolution’ or destruction of the Creation, when a new revitalized Universe comes into being, will that soul get rebirth into this mortal world again? Answer: Son, you should not get entangled in such kind of questions. When a droplet of water gets merged with the ocean its existence comes to an end. Similarly when the soul gets merged within the Almighty it loses its own identity. But you are looking forward to an answer to your question so the following lines are from Swami Ji Maharaj. Soul is asking question of Swami (Lord) AFTER A SURAT HAS REPAIRED TO ITS ORIGINAL ABODE, WILL IT BE SENT BACK TO THE REGION OF KAL? Then Surat prepared itself for the journey homeward but all of a sudden it made the following submission. A serious doubt has crept into my mind. Graciously remove it, and explain it fully. When, being pleased with the Sewa rendered by Kal, You handed 300

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji me over to him, what guarantee is there now that You will not do so again? Answer from Swami (Lord) Soami smiled and said, I shall explain the truth to you in unambiguous terms. Knowingly I had created that episode. Listen to me. It was my Will to do so. I created Kal with a definite purpose. Without Kal, Jivas would have no fear. Without Kal, Jivas would not value Dayal (the Merciful Lord). Hence this Mauj. Now that I have turned Kal out of my Region, he can never re-enter there. Know that I am All Powerful. Have firm faith in My words. Kal cannot go back to that Region. I will never again ordain such a Mauj. Only once it was my Mauj. There is no need for it now. Hence there will be no such ordainment again. Entertain no doubt in your mind. Come to my Region, and abide in bliss. Sarbachan 26:1:72-83

Q497: Babaji, is it right for Satsangi woman to attend clubs and kitty parties? Answer: Son, kitty parties (small group parties) and clubs are part and parcel of entertainment. This mode of entertainment or pastime is for unoccupied woman and unemployed men. You must have heard in the Satsang of Baba Charan Singh ji and Great Saints that if you have generated a desire to meet the Almighty in the present birth, it is better to lead an honest and simple life. Kitty 301

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parties and clubs have nothing to do with Spirituality and one should avoid digressing his mind into these unnecessary things. Q498: Babaji, what is the essence or spirit of Santmat? Answer: Son, Sant Mat is the source through which the soul gets united with the Almighty. If we want to understand the Sar Shabad which is the foundation of Sant Mat, this can be attained by taking the refuge of a Perfect Master, attending Satsang, getting initiated, and practicing Bhajan-Simran. One can only understand the essence or true spirit of Santmat by practicing the correct method. Q499: Babaji, when I am meditating I lose concentration, and thereby lose self confidence that I will reach my destination in Sach Khand. What should I do? Answer: Son, Guru is the incarnation of God on earth. We take Naamdan from him after we have developed faith in him. Everyday after initiation we have to sit for BhajanSimran. It is generally seen that while sitting in meditation, after fifteen minutes only, we want to experience Spiritual Bliss within; whereas the allotted time is two and a half hours. During initiation it is also very clearly explained that we should withdraw our mind from the external world, family, friends, and intoxicants. During meditation if we are unable to see the form of the Guru or do not hear the Divine Sound or see the Divine Light, our practice is incomplete. For instance milk has ghee in it, but this ghee can be separated from the milk only when milk is fermented into curd, and the curd 302

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is churned. If we are constantly checking whether we have derived butter by churning, or lose hope thinking it’s useless, it will lead us nowhere. When the curd is churned properly, then only will we get butter from it. In this way, while sitting in meditation, unless Light is visible inside, or the form of Guru is visible inside, we will remain in doubt. By losing patience, by losing faith, our problem cannot be solved. When one person by churning curd can get butter, then why not another person? When one person by practice can reach his destination, why not another person? The problem is that while practicing our meditation we don't leave our outside (worldly) thoughts. I don't put a time limit on reaching the goal. It can even be reached in 15 minutes if our attention is focused inside during this short time. Then we can directly reach our goal. Q500: Babaji, who is the real enemy of a person in this world? Answer: Son, a person doesn’t have any enemies in this world, as the real enemy of a person is his own mind. Swami Ji Maharaj has stated the following relating to mind. Your mind is your arch enemy. It is difficult to subdue. Sarbachan 19:2:8

Q501: Babaji, what is the reality and real truth of the world? Answer: Son, the reality of this world is to get initiated and through Bhajan-Simran get in touch with the Truth. 303

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The ultimate truth is death, and life is a myth. Swami ji Maharaj has stated: False is your body, false your wealth. False is your mind which is so strongly attached to them. Only Satsang, Sat Guru and Nam (Name of the Supreme Being) are true. Sarbachan 14:4:5,6

Q502: Babaji, which person in this world can actually be called fortunate or respected? Answer: Son, every human being is fortunate. In the cycle of eighty-four, human birth reigns supreme. Other forms are incapable of getting united with the Almighty. After going through the cycle of eighty-four, we have received the human form. One is very fortunate to have this body, but humans can only truly be fortunate if they get Namdaan, do Bhajan-Simran, and get united with the Almighty while alive. We can attain the Almighty if we do good actions and meditation. Just as a droplet of water gets merged with the ocean and becomes one with the ocean, in the same way the soul which has united and merged with Almighty through meditation, is the most fortunate of all. Q503: Babaji, I am having disputes with my wife. One day after having a quarrel with me, she went back to her mother’s place. The whole family was worried. Babaji, she wishes to come back now, but my family and I don’t want to her to come back and create turmoil. She is begging forgiveness, but our minds do not want to see her back. Please advise what to do? 304

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Answer: Son, This is not a small thing. Once a person gets married, then a strong relationship develops between the husband and wife. It has been seen that quarrels do happen, but in the end, since a decree has been passed (marriage ceremony), they have to stay together. I had a personal friend who was not only a professor, but also the registrar of Khalsa Collage. He was facing difficulties staying together with his wife because she was illiterate. They got divorced. Twelve years passed. Neither of the two got remarried. The parents of the lady decided to get her remarried and the professor came to know about it. The very next day he went to her house and asked her parents to close the matter: “I cannot bear that a lady who had been with me for years as my wife is now getting remarried to someone else.” The lady was informed about this, and a message was sent to the groom’s family that he need not come, as the girl has gone back to her husband. Now their children are also working and have good positions. These relationships are all by the Will of the Almighty. Son, from the very first day, try to generate positive views about your wife. She is your life partner. If she suggests something or stops you from doing something, then don’t get annoyed. Stay within your limits. You will become a good householder and you will become a respectable person in the society. Still do keep in mind that she herself is asking for forgiveness and has devoted herself to you. Always have the habit of forgiveness. Everything will be alright. After a period of two months, based on your ability, buy a gift for her. She is not hungry of your gifts, but she looks forward to the love and affection through your gifts. 305

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Q504: Babaji, I have two daughters and one son. They are ready to get married. My husband is a gambler. There is always problems in the house. He doesn’t take responsibility. Kindly show mercy. Answer: Daughter, being in the company of a husband is a blessing in disguise. Chaos and problems only occur when he indulges in wine and gambling. Since your children have completed their education, they should be married off. It is a matter of respect having the company of a husband. I can only wish that God gives him wisdom, and you gain respect everywhere. I pray to God that He may bless your children during marriage. God always assists the desolate, helpless and needy. The people in the village are amazed by the marriages organized there. O’ Lord: Let there be no husband who poses problems to his children and wife. Keep praying to the Almighty “O Lord” I have done my part, Your Blessing and Grace alone can help me.” Q505: Babaji, I got married three years ago. I have a daughter of two years. My husband and his parents harass me a lot. By taking the excuse of customs and traditions, they keep demanding gifts from my parents. My parents fulfilled their demands as per their capacity, but still they torture and threaten me with being sent back to my parents. I don’t want to go there. I am very much troubled. Kindly help me. Answer: Daughter, in our society, it is the story of every household being repeated; still people continue to live this so called acceptable way of life. We can also say it is a part of our Prarabdh karmas. I don't know much about 306

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your behavior, but I will say that you should create more tolerance in yourself. The Almighty answers our prayers and surely your prayer too will not remain unanswered for long. Daughter, your in-laws should not create such a pitiable and unbearable condition for you. They too must have daughters who will be married some day. They should be aware of the consequences that their daughters may face due to their ill behavior. It is for this reason that we take the refuge of Saints and attend Satsang; so that we inculcate the quality of right conduct in ourselves. It should be borne in mind, “As you sow, so shall you reap.” Q506: Babaji, is it right to do gardening at home as it requires our time and attention? Answer: Son, in your leisure hours you can do gardening at home. Sundays are holidays so you can devote your time to plants on that day. Wherever you find space, it is a good habit to plant saplings. Taking care of plants is just like caring and bringing up a child. Wherever you have plants, the environment becomes fresh and rich in oxygen. It is good for health. There is no question of wasting your time: while gardening, you can do Simran. It will benefit you as well as it will have a good effect on your plants. Q507: Babaji, we are an old couple. Our financial condition is quite good. Our son is in need of money. Should we lend it to him? Answer: Sir, you have mentioned you are financially sound and your son is genuinely in need of money. You wish to 307

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help him too. Since you are seeking my opinion regarding this I think you should help your child; but do not expect it to be returned by him. You should only take notice that it is not misused. Q508. Babaji, what should be the nature of concentration and devotion towards God? Answer: Son, we should have concentration and devotion towards the Lord. Soul is the daughter of the Almighty and she wants to unite with the Lord. However, mind always deviates away from this; but when the soul sings the praises of the Lord, the mind also gets attracted towards it. Concentration should be like a partridge which is captivated by the moon. The concentration of mind towards the Lord should be just like the village women who carry pots of water. They talk and they laugh, but their concentration is on the pots, so that not even a single drop of water splashes out. This level of concentration is needed. The devotion should be towards the Lord so much so that we don’t think of anything else. After due thought Kabir says, “Do Simran as the ladies carrying water pots on their heads. Their focus is always on the pot, although they laugh and chat with their friends.”

Q509: Babaji, you work so hard for the development of the Dera without even taking care of your health. We can’t find words of appreciation and gratitude. You sacrifice so much for us but we do not even devote time to BhajanSimran. Don’t you and the other Gurus feel sad about this? 308

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Answer: Son, you have very kindly showed appreciation toward me and my services toward Dera. The Sangat are very devoted to sewa. They work hard to please their Guru. They toil hard with enthusiasm even in the scorching heat of the sun. I must thank you for these sentiments. You should devote time to your Bhajan-Simran. If a child does a good act, the father feels happy; but if he does something wrong, then the father feels sad. Guru feels sad if the disciple is having any problems. Sometimes Guru is angry at his disciple, but his words and anger will never harm the disciple any way. For example, if a child doesn’t listen to his mother, she gets angry and even rebukes him by saying “It would be better if you would die;” although she doesn’t mean what she says. It is just out of frustration. We all are aware of a mother’s love towards her children; the way she nurses them day and night, and especially when the child gets ill her concern becomes even more. She begs for the child’s recovery and prays day and night. So the ‘so called’ anger from the Guru is baseless; it is like churning a stick in water which gets you nothing. Q510: Babaji, if somebody decides that he will go to Dera with a plea or a request but he is unable to put forth his request in front of you, what will happen to his plea that has not been made? Answer: Son, we pray and request in places where we have faith; for example temples, mosques, and Gurudwaras, or at any Saint’s place. Maybe you were running late so you could not put forth your request in front of the Guru. When you leave your house for Dera with a positive thought and faith and enter the Dera, your prayer or 309

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request is answered. There are different stages at which your request of prayer is accepted and answered. When you leave your home for Dera and pray for someone who is ill at home, you leave with the faith that Guru will accept your request. It may be possible that the person for whom you have gone to pray for at the Dera dies while you are praying for his recovery. Everything happens according to the Will of God. A Satsangi once narrated his personal experience to Babaji in this context. “Babaji, whatever you have said is absolutely correct. I will tell you what happened with me. My mother was very old and ill. I thought of coming to Dera and requesting the recovery of my mother. When I reached Dera, Babaji was listening to the pleas and the requests of the people. Babaji looked at me and asked the purpose of my visit. I said, “Babaji, my mother is very ill, kindly shower your blessings on her.” Babaji laughed and said, “She is already filled with my blessings.” I did not understand, just then my phone bell rang. One of my family members said on the phone that I should come back home immediately as my mother has passed away. Then I realized the real meaning of what Baba Ji had said. He showered his blessings on my sick mother. Son, I do not say that you should not pray or put forth your request to me. There are many situations we can not handle on our own. When we make requests to our Guru we get the inner strength to tolerate and face these situations gracefully. Q511: Babaji, when we have a deep desire or urge to visualize the physical form the Guru, will this be credited to our account? 310

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Answer: Son, whatever we say and think is fed into the computer of the brain. The computer doesn’t question what is fed into it, but simply obeys. Son, an account is kept for each and every action of ours. Q512: Babaji, can a doctor pray for the recovery of his patients? Answer: Son, as far as the doctor is concerned, he holds a desire to pray for his patients more than his own family members. In his profession people have a wrong notion that he does not wish his patients to recover quickly. It’s a different matter as to what he thinks. When doctors visit patients admitted in hospitals, they very politely ask about their health and condition. A person should not be judged on a monetary basis. In fact a doctor prays to God for the recovery of his patients whom he attends. Q513: Babaji, how can the qualities of tolerance, forgiveness and service be inculcated in us? Answer: Son, as I have already mentioned, the five elements affect every human being (earth, water, fire, air and ether). When God showers His mercy, then only are these qualities generated in us. Our way of living and our company also affect our life. So we ourselves should try and inculcate these qualities within us. You get the result of your good thoughts. Q514: Babaji, what is necessary in order to get the maximum benefit from Satsang? 311

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Answer: Son, in order to get maximum benefit from Satsang we should have right thought, right action and right living. We get everything from this. While sitting in Satsang, we should focus our mind towards Guru and listen to His words lovingly. We do Simran, but our mind wanders. Physically we register our attendance in Guru’s shrine, but basically our condition is just like a boy who goes to school daily, but his mind is busy in mischievous acts rather than studies. So he is unable to get the maximum benefit from his studies. Contemplation and concentration is the only way to remain rooted in the refuge of a Guru. So during meditation we should contemplate on the form of the Guru. Q515: Babaji, when and why does the incarnation of God, or Guru, descend to Mrityulok or the mortal world? Answer: Son, when we desire to unite with God, then God comes in the form of Guru. When God listens to the cries of the souls, then He manifests Himself in Mrityulok in the form of Guru. Bhai Gurdas Ji has stated: By listening to the cries of the souls, the Almighty sent Guru Nanak Dev Ji to this world. Bhai Gurdas Ji 1-23

God descended to this Mrityulok in the form of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, but nobody could recognize him. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj says: O Divine Guru, I have entered Your Sanctuary. You are the Almighty Lord, the Merciful Lord. 312

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji No one knows Your wondrous plays. You are the perfect Architect of Destiny. Adi Granth 1031

Swamiji Maharaj says: Radhasoami has assumed human form in this world. As Guru (Supreme Guide and Preceptor), He awakens Jivas. Sarbachan 1:2:1

In order to recognize God who is in the form of Guru we need to practice Bhajan- Simran. For example one can get butter when milk is fermented to curd and curd is churned. If one questions, “Why do we churn curd to get butter?” it is because butter is latent in milk, but to obtain it, it has to undergo a process. The Bani says: One who calls himself a Sikh of the True Guru shall rise in the early morning hours and meditate on the Lord’s Name. Upon arising early in the morning, he is to bathe, and cleanse himself in the pool of nectar. Adi Granth 305

One who has attained the level of concentration is able to manifest the form of Guru within him. This form of Guru becomes Shabad Guru which ultimately becomes the form of the Almighty. Q516: Babaji, what should be the behaviour and duty of a Sewadar towards the Satsangi’s who visit Dera? Answer: Son, it is generally seen that a host is very hospitable while attending his guests. It makes the guests 313

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happy. In this manner, whoever comes to Dera, whether he is a Satsangi or non-Satsangi, we must welcome them, give them respect, love and serve them. We should make them feel comfortable and happy. While departing, we must request that they visit again. By doing this you lose nothing, but it brings honour to the Dera. When he goes back he will praise you and the Dera. In other words we must welcome and respect whoever comes to Dera. In one of my verses I have written: Being full of love ourselves, we will love everyone. Any newcomer to Dera will be treated with such respect and honor. That had he come for only one day, he will wind up staying for one week. When he is departing, he will want to come again. By doing Seva with body, mind and wealth, let us make our karmas good.

Q517: Babaji, what should be the behaviour of the Satsangis who come to Dera? Answer: Son, when a Satsangi comes to the Dera, he should be free of his ego and negative thoughts. He should be humble and dutiful. He should not sit idle in Dera but should engage himself in the various activities of Dera. We should serve the Dera physically, mentally and monetarily as far as possible. Q518: Babaji, what is the true form of Guru? Answer: Son, the ‘Word Form’ is the true form of Guru which cannot be visualized through these physical eyes. It 314

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is stated in Shri Guru Granth Sahib ji: To see without eyes, to hear without ears, to walk without feet, to work without hands, to speak without a tongue. Like this, one remains dead while yet alive. O Nanak, recognize the Hukam of the Lord’s Command, and merge with your Lord and Master. Adi Granth 139

With these physical eyes, we can see the physical form of the Living Master. But we can see the True Form only with the Third Eye or internal eyes. Q519: Babaji, you have said that the Radiance of the soul is that of twelve suns? Answer: Son, this stage can be manifested during our spiritual journey when we reach a level where the soul takes a dip in the Amritsar Sarovar at Daswan Dwar. At this stage we experience Divine Bliss. Kabir Sahib has said: On the twelfth day of the lunar cycle, twelve suns rise. Day and night, the celestial bugles vibrate the unstruck melody. Adi Granth 344

In one of my verses I have also said: Your light will be that of twelve suns when you take a dip in the Mansarovar.l

Q520: Babaji, what is our relation with Satguru? 315

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Answer: Son, our relationship with Satguru is that of the soul with the Almighty; a drop of water with the ocean, or that of a balloon with the atmosphere. Q521: Babaji, it is said that the five elements of earth, water, air, fire, and ether are inimical to each other. How do they work together harmoniously per God’s will? Answer: Son, everything is according to God’s Will. When you are troubled by something or some incident, why do you cry in agony? Everyone is subject to His Command; no one is beyond His Command. Adi Granth 1

It is difficult to predict inevitable or unavoidable things. Why do we dry wet clothes in the Sun after squeezing them? When the ladies put wet clothes under the sun they don’t know the scientific reason behind it, but they know that they dry sooner. This also happens according to God’s Will. The heat of the sun will dry up the water as it changes water into vapour. The vapour rises up in the sky and changes into clouds due to condensation and it rains. The water which rises up was invisible when it was in the form of vapour but when it rains we can see it. All these are according to God’s will. We cannot stop water evaporating from wet clothes, nor can we stop the clouds from raining. All these are per God’s Will. The question which you have asked is also according to God’s Will. 316

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Q522: Man is a bundle of faults. What is his greatest mistake? Answer: Son, you have already answered - that man is a bundle of faults. By the grace of God we realize and come to know that we will be away from the Almighty until we take refuge in a Perfect Guru and get initiated from him. The Almighty our Father means everything to us. He puts us on the right path - but this is possible when we are in His Will. Our greatest fault is repeating mistakes and knowingly doing what is wrong after being constantly explained by the Saints. So we do not implement these things in our life. This is the biggest blunder we make. Q523: Babaji, who is our true relative in this world? Answer: Son, you have asked a very genuine question. True is one who is pure in nature; relative is one who is related to us. Thus a true relative is one who is free from disloyalty and untruthfulness. A true relative assists us regardless of our state of wealth or poverty. Our real true relative is the Almighty, but he is without any colour or shape; so our true relative can be a Messenger of God who in turns becomes our Guru. Guru can be considered as the True Relative as He alone can unite us with the Truth and the Almighty. Q524: Babaji who is the husband of Soul? Answer: Son, the Almighty is the husband of Soul. The Almighty is not only our Husband, but also our Father, 317

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Mother, Sister, Brother, etc. He means everything to us. Q525: Babaji, who will be successful to reach and attain the Almighty? Answer: Son, there is only one way to reach the Almighty and that way has eighty-four steps. Its last step leads to taking the human form. One has to come out of the cycle of eighty-four by getting initiation from a Guru, taking Naam from him, doing Simran, and trying to contemplate on the form of Guru. You have to see Him through closed eyes. When you close your eyes you have darkness, but through Bhajan and Simran we can dispel the darkness and you can see a reflection of light similar to the rays of the rising sun. When our meditation gets deeper and deeper, the darkness fades away and we visualize Guru’s image. Guru then becomes Satguru. Initially Guru’s form was made of five elements (earth, water, air, fire and ether). Now he has transformed into the form of Satguru; which form is comprised of seventeen elements (5 sense organs, 5 organs of action, 4 antashkaran and 3 attributes). Our true Guru is the Shabad Guru. This Word Form of Guru does not have shape. Neither does the Satguru nor does the Naam have any shape. Now we are connected to the Word Form of Guru. This Word Form of Guru, through initiation, takes us to Anami Desh. After reaching there, we become one with the Almighty by merging into Him. Q526: Babaji, who has separated us from the Almighty? Answer: Son, who could have separated us from the Almighty? We got separated by our own Creator. A girl can 318

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ask a similar question: ‘Who has separated me from my parents?’ Her mother and father gave birth to her, and when she attained the age of marriage, she was sent away to her in-laws place. Now the daughter fights with her father asking why he separated her from himself. The father says, “You will realize this when your daughter grows up and you are compelled to get her married and send her to her in-laws place.” Actually the Almighty was very pleased with Niranjan for his devotion and services rendered to Him. As appreciation for this he gave a storehouse of souls to Niranjan. So human beings should not get entangled in issues which are beyond their control. Everything happens at His Will. Q527: Babaji, what is the difference between Shabad and Guru? Answer: Son, there is no difference between Shabad and Guru. When Kabir Sahib took Rani Indermati to Satlok after she was enlightened, there she had the view of Satpurush. Kabir Sahib was Rani Indermati’s Guru, and when Kabir Sahib took her through the main gate of Sach Khand she saw Kabir Sahib sitting on the Royal Throne. Rani was surprised to see Kabir Sahib not only sitting on the Royal Throne but also standing beside her. It happened this way because God has no form. In Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, it is stated: He has no form, no shape, no color; God is beyond the three qualities. They alone understand Him, O Nanak, with whom He is pleased. Adi Granth 139

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Guru himself is Satguru of his disciple, and Satguru becomes Shabad Guru and takes his disciple back to Anami Desh from where the Dhun is emanating. When Kabir Sahib came to her after meeting the Almighty, Rani Indermati asked “If you were the Master of the Royal Throne (God Himself), why didn’t you tell me in Mrityulok?” Kabir Sahib replied: “I have often told in my Satsang that the Living Guru is an incarnation of God, but you did not believe at that time. Similarly, when a five year old child asks her mother, “From where have I come from?” the mother replies “From the temple.” She doesn’t have proper words to explain this. When the child grows up, she herself understands how a child is born. Q528: Babaji, what should we do in order to procure Guru’s love and affection? Answer: Son, it is not just about pleasing your Guru. To make a child agree with you, you have to please him also. If your wife is not ready to go to a marriage party of your friend, then you should not compel her. It is better to get her to agree affectionately. This is the only way you can please her. This is a worldly matter. Similarly, if you want to gain the affection of Guru, you have to live in His will. His will is that we should remain attached to Him. After getting initiation from Guru, do Bhajan-Simran and be attached to Him within; then only can we gain his affection. Q529: Babaji, people criticize other Gurus even after getting Nam. Is this correct? Answer: Son, we should neither criticize Guru nor anybody 320

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else. Criticism is a bad habit. It does not effect the one who has been criticized but the person who criticizes is burdened with a load of karmas. By continually slandering others, they carry a terrible load, and they carry the loads of others for nothing. Adi Granth 118

Within them is greed, and they wander around like mad dogs. They slander others and carry loads of sin upon their heads. Adi Granth 372

In this way, by criticizing others we are burdened with an extra load of karmas. Guru Amar Das Ji Maharaj has stated in Guru Granth Sahib: It is not good to slander anyone, but the foolish, self-willed manmukhs still do it. The faces of the slanderers turn black, and they fall into the most horrible hell. Adi Granth 755

Kabir Sahib says, “I bow down to a person who criticizes me. He is washing my dirty clothes without asking me”. If my heart is pure, and I am slandered, then the slanderer washes my clothes. One who slanders me is my friend; the slanderer is in my thoughts. Adi Granth 399

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criticizing others is a great sin. Q530: Babaji, if a person has taken the refuge of a Perfect Guru and has also developed immense faith in Him, but is unable to see His Radiant Form within during meditation, will the Guru take care of him at his last breath? Answer: Son, we need to fully consider this matter. Before taking Naamdan, if we seek a Perfect Master we can surely achieve Him. After initiation, it is the responsibility of the Guru to purify the soul of His disciple in at least four births and take him to Sach Khand. There is no doubt regarding this fact. Q531: Babaji, if a person attains a higher position, another person may also be desirous to have his position. Is it a right attitude? Answer: This is human nature, that when one sees another having a higher position, he too gets the desire for that same position. He thinks that if he would have had that position he would have gained the same respect. In the same way, a person was so delighted after seeing the admiration and reverence that Lord Ganesha received from the people that he said to his wife: “Alas, if I were in his position I would have received the same admiration.” His wife replied: “O God! If my husband would have been Lord Ganesha, I would have also worshipped him, offered him Laddus, would enjoy his admiration, then after ten days I would immerse him in water and the next year I would get a new Lord Ganesha (husband).” Son, if you want to deliberate about this, then it 322

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should be about people who by practice are absorbed and enthralled in the Divine Bliss within after receiving Nam. Try to emulate them and generate good thoughts. Q532: Babaji, in one of your verses (shabads) there is a line that says “Kaga kha laye mas mera” there is another line “khai jande mas mera girjhate kuttia.” What is the spiritual meaning of these? Answer: Son, the literal meaning of that line is that my whole body is being eaten up by vultures and dogs. “O Lord! I am growing old. I am unable to take care of my body. Crows and dogs run after me to eat my body.” Then addressing the mind he says “O’ mind, you eat up everything of mine! Finish it, but just listen to me very carefully. Don’t disturb and harm my eyes which are craving the Darshan of my Guru. After I have gazed at Him, you can eat up my eyes too.” The main idea or essence of the mentioned line is that there is nothing in this world which is comparable to our love and devotion for Guru and His Darshan. Farid Sahib says in his Bani: The crows have picked at my bones, and eaten all my flesh. But please do not touch these eyes, I hope to see my Lord. Adi Granth 1382

Q533: Babaji, where is the True Home of the Saints? Answer: Son, from the worldly point of view, the place where human beings are born is their actual home, but according to Spirituality the True Home or destination of 323

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every soul is Sachkhand, Satlok or Anami Desh. The consciousness of Saints is always at their original abode of Sach Khand. The soul of a common man is always entangled in the cycle of eighty-four. Swami Ji Maharaj says: I call Him a Sant who has merged His Surat in Sat Lok. Sat Lok is the fourth Lok, beyond the three Loks. It is the Region of Satnam. It is the Darbar (Court) of Sat Guru. A Sant Surat (the Surat of a Sant) is absorbed in the rapturous bliss of Sat Lok- Sat Purush - Sat Shabd. Beyond Triloki (the three worlds) is Sunn. Beyond Sunn is Mahasunn. What is on the other side of Maha-sunn is called Bhanwargupha. Beyond that is the fourth Lok. Without gaining access to that region, all is hollow and sham. None reached there except a Sant. And none is a Sant till He reaches there. Sarbachan 26:1:180-186

I have also mentioned this in one of my Shabads: Satguru, a resident of Satlok, distributes the goods of Nam. Unfortunate human beings want worldly things of him.

Q534: Babaji, the Sangat unconditionally submits to the Guru. To whom does the Guru submit? Answer: Son, this can be answered by those who have adopted a Guru. They can tell better whether they should submit to their Guru’s will or not. Actually the main essence is to live in God’s Will. Even the Great Saints live in God’s Will and advise us to do so also. For instance, at home, if anybody is in need of a thing, he will not directly ask God 324

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for it but he will request the head of the household to acquire it for him. Once I went to somebody’s house. The husband and the wife always quarreled there. The wife put this request to me, “Since the day I have come to this house, by the grace of God I have received everything. Whenever I need anything, I ask my husband for it, but he declines saying that I should ask my father-in-law. This is the main reason for our quarrelling. Apart from this I face no problems at home. I disagree with my husband, saying to him that I have got married to you. You are expected to take care of me. You ask your father for things, I will not. For my requirements you are solely responsible and I’ll approach you.” Basically it is seen that daughter-in-laws are hesitant to get their wants fulfilled through their fathers-in-law. So you see, if a wife needs anything, she will count on her husband. Guru has graced and blessed us with God’s greatest gift of Naamdan. We ask for necessities and essentials of life from our husband (Guru). Then it is up to Guru to pray to God for us and provide whatever is needed, and also to show us the path to unite with Him. Q535: Babaji, where do we find the Shabad? Answer: Son, there is no specific location for the Shabad. It is Omnipresent. It is present in every atom existing in this world. Some one has rightly said, “Jidhar dekhta hun udhar tu hi tu hai, Har id saya me jalwa hu ba hu hai”. ‘Wherever I look, you are there; Your Grace is the same everywhere.’ Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj says: 325

Questions & Answers Part 2 The Word created this earth. The Word created the sky. Light is because of the Word. The Word is behind the existence of the entire universe. Nanak says: the Word is present in everything. (Pran Sangali)

Q536: Babaji, it is said that the Shabad is inside as well as outside. How is this so? Answer: Son, we cannot see an electric current, but we can feel its power wherever its connection is available. We can fully utilize it, but we cannot see it. Similarly, the Shabad, even though found everywhere, cannot be seen, but we experience it through the practice of meditation. Where we are standing, there is water underneath the ground. The common man is not ready to accept it. He will experience it only when a well is dug and a tap is connected to get water. In the same way, air is present inside and outside, but neither can we see it nor can we hold it, yet we can feel it. Similarly, we can only experience the Shabad through Bhajan-Simran. Q537: Babaji, what is ‘True Shabad’? Answer: Son, the term Shabad has been explained many a time. The ‘True Shabad’ is one, which starts its journey from Anami Desh and travels through the various states and is ringing behind our eyes. In order to listen to it, we need spiritual ears. Regarding this Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji says: 326

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji To see without eyes, to hear without ears, to walk without feet, to work without hands, to speak without a tongue. Like this, one remains dead while yet alive. O Nanak, recognize the Hukam of the Lord’s Command, and merge with your Lord and Master. Adi Granth 139

Q538: Babaji, what is the essence of love? Answer: Son, a person who has experienced love and also its pain, knows the essence of love better. Guru Gobind Singh ji has stated: I speak Truth. All should turn their ears toward it. He who is absorbed in the True Love will realize the Lord. Dasam Granth 42

Q539: Babaji, I have just gone to work at a new job. My manager does not behave properly with me and keeps abusing me. What should I do? Answer: Son, what answer should I give? It is rightly said regarding work: work in agriculture is the best; the next best option is doing business. Being employed is good, but begging done by an illiterate is the worst. All cannot do agriculture or business, so we need to get employed working in some job. To hold on to your job successfully you have to be very tactful in dealing with different situations. You have to change yourself accordingly. Wherever we work, the employer becomes our master. We have to abide by his rules without ‘ifs’, ‘ands’ or ‘buts’. 327

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This is the secret to becoming a successful employee and working efficiently. Q540: Babaji, if a person requests initiation from a Perfect Master or a Saint, and due to some reason the person is unable to receive it, will he get initiation in his next birth? Answer: Maybe that person asks the Guru for Naamdan, but Guru declines his request advising him to abandon the consumption of meat and alcohol and listen to Satsang. However in spite of obeying the Guru’s instructions if the person is unable to receive Nam from that Guru for some reason, then he can seek another Guru, request Nam from Him and get initiated. It is his earnest prayers that count. If he meets with an unfortunate accident and is unable to receive Naamdan in his present birth, then in his next birth he will be born as a human and get initiated. He has already taken the refuge of a Guru. He is in the domain of Guru now, so goodness is bound to be showered upon him. Q541: Babaji, can a person assess the depth and level of a Guru’s Spirituality with his intelligence? Answer: Son, a person has no right nor does he have the power to assess the level attained by Guru in His Spiritual Journey within. It would be a great achievement if he would be able to do so. Getting initiated, practicing BhajanSimran, and having devotion for Guru itself is praiseworthy. We can talk about the spiritual development within, but there is no need to assess or judge a Guru, the thought itself is a sin. 328

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Q542: Babaji, who is a ‘Perfect Master’? Answer: Son, everyone thinks himself to be perfect. Only a human being can have the status of Guru. He alone is Perfect who fulfills the qualities according to the following verses: The True Guru is the All-knowing Primal Being; He shows us our true home within the home of the self. The Panch Shabad, the Five Primal Sounds, resonate and resound within; the insignia of the Shabad is revealed there, vibrating gloriously. Adi Granth 1291

You have to free yourself from worldly desires, and if you have the urge within to do this, then He will seek you or He will send someone to enquire about you. Then by getting initiated and through practice of the Nam, you can feel His presence; but you cannot assess His spiritual development. Although a droplet of water may merge with the ocean, still it cannot ascertain its shape and size. Q543: Babaji, what is real meaning of fasting? Answer: Son, as far as fasting is concerned, I don’t want you to get entangled in Hindu Philosophy. Fasting means not to consume a particular thing at a particular time. The ‘Roza’ of Muslims is also a kind of fast; to eat in the morning and at a particular time in the evening to break the fast. Roza or fast means not to have anything throughout the day and keep an empty stomach. Fasting even for a day causes discomfort, and people, especially the rich, realize 329

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what hunger is. A day without food causes so much discomfort and Hazrat Sahib has made the Muslim brothers experience it. Before retiring to bed at night it is the duty of each and every Muslim to see that the five neighbours both to the right and left of his house don’t sleep unfed and hungry. Hazrat Sahib says to ask your neighbours, ‘Brother have you eaten or not;’ and if a person is hungry because of poverty, feed him, otherwise your Roza will not be accepted. Q544: Babaji, I wish to be initiated. When I came to you for initiation you told me that it was not the right time for me to be initiated; rather I should focus on my studies. The problem is that I cannot concentrate on studies. I want to simultaneously do my studies along with Bhajan and Simran. Kindly advise what I should do? Answer: Son, if you accept and regard your Guru, from whom you want to get initiated, as the Almighty, then surrender yourself to his His will. Abide by whatever He says. Keep attending and listening to Satsang. A day will come when Guru Himself will call on you to bless you with Naamdan. You have mentioned that you cannot concentrate on studies and if you get Naamdan the responsibility of your studies also falls on the Guru instead of your parents. There is a right time for everything, so presently concentrate on studies and keep praying to receive Naamdan. If you are destined to receive it, you surely will. Q545: Babaji, I have a friend. Both of us have received initiation from you. Now he is stuck in a big problem. I 330

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regularly do Bhajan and simran hoping that he comes out of the problem. Is this the right way of acting? Answer: Son, if you wish to share your earnings with someone, then whatever you are doing is right. If through your Bhajan and Simran you are unable to take your friend out from the problem he is facing, you may lose faith in the Almighty. If you devote two and a half hours of Bhajan– Simran for yourself, and one hour for your friend, then you have the right to pray to your Guru on his behalf. BhajanSimran should be very pure. This is possible only when you sit for meditation and your mind does not keep wandering outside. Q546: Babaji, when a person through regular practice of Bhajan and Simran gets his Guru manifested within, he starts anticipating the things that will happen beforehand. If he anticipates something bad is about to happen, won’t he get disturbed by it? Answer: Son, if a person gets disturbed, you can conclude that he has not attained maturity in Bhajan and Simran. If a person has manifested his Guru within, then he will not lose his balance but will remain in Guru’s will. Q547: Babaji, on what ground does the relationship of Guru and disciple remain sustained? Answer: Son, the relationship of Guru and disciple is a relation of purity. If you are truly devoted, Guru won’t be away from you. That is why you should remain in the refuge of Guru. Remaining in Guru’s will is equivalent to remaining 331

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in the Will of the Almighty. At the time of initiation, Guru explains some guidelines; by following them the relationship of Guru and disciple remains sustained. Q548: Babaji, what is the importance of the efforts of an initiated person? Answer: Son, the Bani says, After getting initiation, a person should practice Nam and get connected to his Guru through His Will, then only can he get attached to the Almighty. Without Guru’s mercy, any effort to meet the Almighty is futile. Saints and Mystics have said in Guru Granth Sahib, that nothing is in your hands. Everything is in the hands of God. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji has said: O Nanak, whatever pleases His Will comes to pass. Nothing is in the hands of these beings. Adi Granth 55

Nothing is in the power of these beings; You created the various worlds. Adi Granth 469

Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj says: God Himself is the Cause of causes, good and bad - no one has control over these things. Adi Granth 77

My body and wealth are Yours. You are my God - nothing is in my power. Adi Granth 406

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Saints and religious books inspire us to become something through penances. By getting initiated from a Guru, practicing it regularly, and visualizing Guru within, one can attain the Almighty. Q549: Babaji, it is said that while doing Bhajan and Simran Kal comes in various forms. He also comes in the form of Satguru. What should one do to save himself from him? Answer: Son, during Bhajan and Simran Kal comes in many forms and tries to sidetrack us from the Path. It becomes very difficult. Especially, when he arrives in the form of Guru, it is even more difficult. When a person is on his death bed, Kal comes by taking Guru’s form. Further, I would like to tell you that the appearance of Kal looks similar to that of Guru, but if you watch closely the complexion of Guru within is the same as His external complexion, whereas that of Kal is red in colour. Kal has golden eyes and a small forehead, whereas the forehead of Guru is wide. Guru blinks His eyes whereas Kal does not. These are all explained at the time of initiation. One can save himself by regularly doing Simran of the Five Names. Through this the image of Kal vanishes. Q550: Babaji, are Atma (Soul) and Paramatma (Supreme Soul) originally the same? Answer: Dear son, in what words can I explain to you that Atma is a part of Paramatma? You can call them Original Form and daughter, both are of the same essence. Soul is a form of light just as the Supreme Soul. It is mentioned in the Bani: 333

Questions & Answers Part 2 Says Kabir, our soul is a part of Almighty. Adi Granth 871

Q551: Babaji, some people try to exhibit ghosts by evil spells or witchcraft. Is this true or false and is there a soul in the ghost? Answer: Dear son, Santmat doesn’t want to entangle you in such matters. Santmat shows the path of getting united with God by taking Nam from a Perfect Master and doing meditation. It has been stated in Guru Granth Sahib: At the very last moment, one who thinks of wealth, and dies in such thoughts, shall be reincarnated over and over again, in the form of serpents. O’ sister, do not forget the Name of the Lord of the Universe. At the very last moment, he who thinks of women, and dies in such thoughts, shall be reincarnated over and over again as a prostitute. At the very last moment, one who thinks of his children, and dies in such thoughts, shall be reincarnated over and over again as a pig. At the very last moment, one who thinks of mansions, and dies in such thoughts, shall be reincarnated over and over again as a goblin. At the very last moment, one who thinks of the Lord, and dies in such thoughts, says Trilochan, that man shall be liberated; the Lord shall abide in his heart. Adi Granth 526

Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj has stated: Many millions are the Yakshas - the servants of the god of wealth, the Kinnars - the gods of celestial music, and the evil spirits of the Demon. 334

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Many millions are the evil natured spirits, ghosts, pigs and tigers. Adi Granth 276

There are crores of yaksha, kinnar, pishach; and crores of Ghosts, pret, pigs and Lions. This is a quote taken from Sri Guru Granth Sahib. So we cannot deny the presence of ghosts. The Satsangis should not be superstitious and get entraped in topics like ghosts and witchcraft. Superstition is a disease which cannot be cured easily. Q552: Babaji, sometimes even after taking Nam, a person becomes so sad that he cannot decide anything. At times he loses faith in his Guru. In such a situation what should he do? Answer: Dear son, I think you devote too little time to Satsang - otherwise you would have received the answer to this question by now. According to the Bani two powers - Kal and Dayal, are working within us. The power of Kal takes the souls toward the negative side, that is, towards the wrong side. The power of Dayal tries to unite the soul to God. When a person does Bhajan-Simran after taking Nam, the opposing powers of Kal start working vigorously; we face obstacles in our day to day work; sometimes the family is hit by illness and disease. The person who has strong belief in God can withstand such situations gracefully. Through Simran and Bhajan all things can be reversed. It can be the result of past Karmas or it can be due to the opposing power of Kal, but Guru helps those who take his shelter and strongly believe in Him. By the mercy and grace of Guru a person is able to withstand the 335

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negative powers of Kal; then mind becomes his friend. This is the result of doing Bhajan Simran and being in the refuge of Guru. Q553: Babaji, I have taken initiation and I am married. My husband has not taken Naamdan. Now when I sit for meditation, he is displeased. What is the solution? Answer: Daughter, before marriage we should gather all the information regarding the boy, and then only take a final decision. We should inquire about his intake of nonvegetarian food or alcohol. Even though he is not initiated, is he against Santmat? What is his opinion regarding Living Masters? Only after analysing all of this information should we take the step of marriage. However, if you are already married to him, it is his duty not to stop you from doing Simran and attending Satsang. Your responsibility is to respect and love your husband as much as you can. There is a proverb which says that ‘A lion in love does no harm.’ Your devotion and faith towards your Guru will surely put him on your track. Q554: Babaji, does the same soul exist in all creatures right from the ant to an elephant.? Answer: Dear son, whatever God has created, whatever we see through our eyes, is created by the power of Nam. Nam is a Power which neither has colour nor shape nor ‘physical existence.’ For example, the way electricity has power, so has Nam. The electric current has the power to light up a bulb, and run a motor for moving water. Heavy industry also runs on electricity. In like manner, the same 336

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Spiritual Power exists in an ant as well as an elephant. The same Power works in a child as well as an adult. Q555: Babaji, one person I know is a vegetarian since childhood, and has also taken Naamdan. Another person abandoned vegetarian food when he grew up, but is also initiated. Is there any difference between the two after receiving Naamdan? Answer: Son, suppose the first is a vegetarian and his thoughts are inhuman and the second person is a nonvegetarian but his thoughts are noble. How do we decide who is better of the two? They can differ based on Simran Bhajan, refuge of Guru, detachment, love, inner urge, dedication, etc. It is said that God will hear the weeping of an ant before the cry of elephant. Q556: Babaji, what is the meaning of casting sacred vision on the pens? Does the child pass in his exams when you put your ‘Drishti’ on it? Answer: Dear daughter, I don’t cast my Drishti on pens so that a child may pass in his exams. It would affect the child psychologically. I do tell them that my best wishes are with them, but they will not pass unless and until they work hard. I make the children stand in a line, and give a sacred gaze (drishti) on their pens. I do this because these innocent children believe that if I do so they are sure to pass. I do not want to dishearten them. If a child feels that inspite of putting in extra effort he has not succeeded, and Guru alone can help him, then Drishti really has a positive effect on 337

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them. It is a matter of faith and nothing else. I will just ask you a question, if I tell the children that Drishti will not help them, do you think they will agree? In fact doing so would really dishearten the little ones, which I do not want. Q557: Babaji, if children of initiated parents go to a temple, a mosque or a church, should they bow down in reverence in the name of these religious places or should they pay reverence contemplating on their Guru? Answer: Son, if you are a Satsangi then you would hardly be taking your children to temples and mosques. But if your children are going to temples and have faith and trust in God, then don’t break their belief. At this tender age, they cannot differentiate between gods and goddess’s or the importance of adopting a Guru. Their friends have created this faith in deities, and faith is God. This can only help them. If you love your Guru, but don’t have faith in him, then it won’t be of any help to you. The child has faith in deities and this faith will help him throughout his life. You should take your child to Satsang so that he develops good thoughts. It is not clear whether the child is young or old. If the child is old enough, he should contemplate on his Guru. There is nothing wrong in going to the temples or other religious places. Q558: Babaji, if a person does Seva physically, mentally and monetarily, but he cannot sit for Bhajan Simran, will he be benefitted? Answer: Son, the question which you have asked is 338

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answered in ‘Question Answer’ Part 1. Try to read it carefully. Q559: Babaji, if a person is not getting Guru’s Darshan inside, will he be benefitted by his Darshan outside? Answer: Son, as far as outside Darshan of Guru is concerned, it also has its own significance. For example, suppose you are hungry, and your wife has gone out. You can see the chapatis through the window but you cannot eat them. Now these chapatis will create craving and desire to have them. Similarly Guru’s external Darshan creates eagerness in us and produces desire for internal Darshan. If while meditating there is lack of concentration in visualizing the form of Guru within, then gazing at the Guru‘s photo can also be beneficial (not trying to visualize the photo itself inside). So a great importance is given to the external Darshan of Guru and we also get benefit from it. As we can only eat the chapattis when the wife returns home and opens the lock, similarly we can only have the Darshan of Guru when we open the lock within, by Guru’s Nam. The external darshan also has its importance, but unless we experience it inside we cannot get success. As we get satisfaction only after eating chapatis, so we get contentment and satisfaction by getting Guru‘s internal Darshan. Q560: Babaji I have taken initiation from Baba Charan Singh ji. Many a time at night I had seen Babaji’s image in a large white rose. It’s been almost fifteen years now that I don’t see anything. I am not fit enough to go to Beas as my age 339

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is 82 years. Now I see your external form. Will I get any benefit from this? Answer: Daughter, you have taken initiation from Baba Charan Singh ji. You are very lucky that 15 years ago you had seen the form of Babaji in a white rose. You have not clarified whether you had seen the form of Babaji in a dream or while doing Bhajan. Anyway, whenever you have visualized the Guru‘s form it’s a great achievement. It was the result of your practice, but 15 years have passed and since then you have not seen the form of your Guru. You have written that you are eighty-two years old and you cannot go to Beas but you have not mentioned that you are unwell or you have some financial or any other problem. Daughter, as far as Darshan is concerned, it depends upon your faith. It definitely affects your inner traits when you have the Darshan of any Saint. Just as a tube well will keep the field green just as the rainfall; but the crop cannot depend only upon the rain water. The tube well which we have installed is required to yield the necessary results. So try to visualize your own Guru while doing Simran Bhajan. His visualization can only make you free from the cycle of birth and death and the rest you must have understood. Daughter, you can go to Beas even at the age of eightytwo. There should not be an age bar for the Darshan of your Guru. It’s just an excuse of your mind. Even at my age of eighty-five I am going to Gorakhpur today for 2 days, to attend the program. I don’t think it is correct to make an excuse of age to avoid doing any work. It is a sign of laziness. Try to get rid of this habit. Whether you get my Darshan at Tarn Taran or in your city, anyhow, you need to walk down. 340

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Just like that you should go to Beas to have the Darshan of your Guru. It is important to be present there. Q561: Babaji, while doing Bhajan sometime I see a beautiful and cold place where the moon and the stars can be caught with your hands. What is that place? Sometimes I can see it as soon as I sit for Bhajan and sometimes it cannot be seen even after putting a lot of effort. Why? Answer: Try to take yourself beyond the place of stars (Taramandal), moon and sun. This is just the beginning of Bhajan. We should go beyond this and not confine ourself only to these places or this level. Q562: Babaji, when I sit for Bhajan a black, ugly and huge creature frightens me and sometimes abuses me loudly. He doesn’t move back even after being kicked but moves away when I contemplate on the form of my Guru. What is this thing? Answer: Son, when we sit for Bhajan the negative power of Kal creates obstacles to disturb our practice of Bhajan Simran. However, when Guru’s image gets manifested within us, the power of Kal becomes ineffective. Try to move forward in your spiritual journey contemplating on the form of Guru. Q563: Babaji, previously when I used to sit in Satsang, I could see light coming out of your turban and eyes which illuminated the sangat. I disclosed this experience to someone, and now I can neither see that radiant light nor 341

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can I listen to the Satsang attentively. What should I do? Answer: Son, it was very rightly said by Baba Pratap Singh Ji and Baba Sawan Singh Ji that one should be devoted and regular in attending Satsang to get the maximum benefit. It is explained in the Satsang that we should be devoted and have implicit faith in our Guru. While doing Bhajan we experience such a stage where we see the Radiant Form of Guru and are filled with bliss. During meditation if we visualize the form of Guru we see that each strand of His hair sparkles like a precious gem when. When we attain maximum maturity in our spiritual journey inside, then in the external form of Guru also we see Radiant light reflecting from his hair, and a halo is seen around his head. This Radiance seems to be showering on the sangat. It‘s the result of your highest achievement in meditation. Do not be baffled by all this. During Satsang and especially at the time of Naamdan it is explained and advocated that we should not disclose whatever we experience in the different stages of our spiritual journey within. If we do disclose these things, we fail to experience such Radiant Bliss for many years. Sharing these experiences reduces our power. You can make amends for this mistake within. Contemplate on Guru and apologize for your blunder. You can also request to the external physical form of Guru regarding this. Everything will be alright. There is no problem in the world which has no solution. Q564: Babaji, there is a big desert where a red sun is seen and sometimes the lightening can also be seen, which region is this? 342

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Answer: Son after being initiated when we become successful and gain maximum maturity in doing Bhajan Simran, we cross ‘Sahansdal Kamal’ by seeing the light of Jyot (Divine Light), and then cross the very dark lane called the crooked path of Bunk Nal and reach to the boundary of Trikuti where we can see the light of the rising sun and hear the sound of thunderbolts. That is the region of Brahm. Swami Ji Maharaj stated in his bani: Now proceed to the second region. Behold Trikuti, the abode of Guru. There abides the Dhun (sound) of Omkar, and resounds the thunder of dark and heavy clouds. This is the region of the red morning Sun where Guru reveals His Name Sarbachan 26:2:1-3

Q565: Babaji, when we meet a person even one time we are able to recall his appearance later on, but in spite of being in your company most of the time it seems difficult to recall your image. Why is this so? Answer: Son, the image of the person whom we love can be recalled at any time; but it is not so easy to visualize the form of Guru within, even after getting initiation. It involves practice of Bhajan Simran. Kal is a negative power. He creates obstacles. We can understand all these by listening to Satsang. Q566: Babaji, sometimes I wake up at night and think of sitting in Bhajan but again fall asleep. While sleeping also sometimes I have Darshan of Guru and get Prashad. Is it a dream or my mind being devoted to Bhajan? 343

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Answer: Son, it is only a dream. Your mind can be devoted to Bhajan Simran only when you are in a conscious state. You have mentioned that you received Prashad too which is highly amazing. I thing it was merely a dream. Do not take it seriously. Q567: Babaji, I keep insisting that my family members and children attend satsang, but they do not pay heed to my request. What should be done so that they develop an inclination towards satsang? Answer: Son, if they are not willing to attend Satsang, it is God’s Will. If children do not accompany you, then you have the opportunity to listen to the Satsang attentively. Don‘t worry about it. Make your life style such that they get motivated and inspired by your example and one day surely they will walk in your footsteps. I think the children you are talking about are not mature enough to take a correct decision. At this age they love to play and enjoy, especially at holidays. Have patience and let them grow up so that they are able to make the right decision. Q568: Babaji, I would like to understand how reading or listening to your verses and scriptures help in our Spiritual development within? Answer: Son, it all depends on how well you read and appreciate it. You can experience spiritual development inside only through Bhajan–Simran as expounded by your Guru. Guru Nanak Dev Ji has explained very well in this verse: 344

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji You may read and read loads of books; you may read and study vast multitudes of books. You may read and read boatloads of books; you may read and read and fill pits with them. You may read them year after year; you may read them as many months as there are. You may read them all your life; you may read them with every breath. O’ Nanak, only one thing is of any account: everything else is useless babbling and idle talk in ego. Adi Granth 467

Q569: Babaji, there are many people who have received initiation from you, but they neither come to Satsang nor do they come to Dera. They are unhappy at their homes and go to graves and tombs. What is the reason behind it? Answer: Son, the person may have taken Naamdan due the pressure from his life partner, or his friends may have compelled him to take Naamdan. He was destined to be initiated, so he received this blessing. Presently, maybe he is not destined to practice bhajan. It is bad when we don’t do Bhajan and Simran after taking Nam. Going to tombs and graves is even worse than this. They are helpless wanderers. They are not aware it will gain them nothing. In fact, their troubles will multiply. Son, this is the realm of Kal due to which all these things happen. Q570: Babaji, I have been initiated by Baba Charan Singh Ji. After he left for His heavenly abode I never had his Darshan within. Now I am very much in love with you. I always listen to your Satsang. Sometimes I feel like taking Naamdan from you. Will it be alright? 345

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Answer: Son you are fortunate that you received Naamdan from Baba Charan Singh Ji. You have mentioned that after He left for His heavenly abode, you did not visualize Him within. Now you have developed love and affection towards me and also listen to my Satsang. This is alright, however the idea of receiving Nam from me is not acceptable. This is entirely incorrect. After initiating someone the Guru may part from him physically, but not spiritually. So it is wrong to ever think of getting initiated the second time after already having received Naamdan from a Perfect Master. Your Guru, Maharaj Charan Singh Ji is solely entitled to unite you with the Almighty. Q571: Babaji, in a family husband and wife both have received Nam. You have mentioned that Guru can liberate the souls of the initiated ones and take them to Sach Khand in four births. If the husband is reborn will he have the same wife? Answer: Son, it is not compulsory that Guru will purify the soul and take him to Sachkhand in four births. Saints explain in this way so that the people do not get disheartened, but it is not necessary. Kal’s realm is so vast that it can take more time to free the soul from the cycle of eighty-four. It also depends on the Grace of Guru and the devotion of the disciple. Guru can take him even in his first or second birth. Unless a disciple reaches Sachkhand by doing Bhajan-Simran, he cannot be liberated from the cycle of birth and death. It is also not necessary that in your next birth you will again be united with your present wife. 346

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Q572: Babaji, in Satsang the Saints preach and advocate doing charitable works. If someone knocks at our door for alms, may we help him? The problem I find is that he uses that money for non–vegetarian food and intoxicants. Do we pay for his karmas also? Answer: Son, I have given the answer to this question in ‘Question Answer’ Part –I. Get the information from there and try to listen to Satsang to elevate your queries. Q573: Babaji, if a person does not pay his debts or dies without paying them, will his debt be excused, or will he have to take rebirth in order to clear his dues? Answer: Son, Sri Guru Ram Das Ji Maharaj says: The body is the field of action in this Dark Age of Kali Yuga; as you plant, so shall you harvest. Adi Granth 308

In his priceless bani ‘Barah Maha’ Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj has stated: In the month of Katak, do good deeds. Do not try to blame anyone else. Adi Granth 135

We have to give an account of every action of ours. If you have lent money to someone and he has not repaid his dues, do not keep that in your mind. If you do so you have to take rebirth. We have to clear all the dues of the merchant who keeps the record of every single paisa in 347

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his register that is lent. If we do not keep a record of a transaction in our book of accounts, and have forgotten about it after lending, then we do not have to take rebirth. The debt which we have not paid has to be cleared. Q574: Babaji, if a mediator fixes the marriage of a girl and after four or five years the girl commits suicide, will the mediator be considered a sinner? Answer: Son, the mediator can not be considered a sinner. The mediator was only the means by which destiny was fulfilled. If the girl committed suicide, it was due to her prarabdh karma (destiny). There must be some karmic account from her previous birth. Q575: Babaji, there is a person who is unable to speak or hear but he receives your Darshan in Satsang, and also has immense love for you. Will he be liberated or has he to take rebirth? Answer: Son, he will get rebirth. He is already in the queue where there is hope to unite with the Almighty. In his next birth he will get initiation and be successful based upon his Bhajan-Simran and devotion. Q576: Babaji, if somebody makes fun of a person who has accepted Radha Soami Mat, then what should be done? Should he hide that he is a follower of Radha Soami Mat, oppose the person who is making fun of him, or keep quiet? Answer: Son, the person is stamped as Radha Soami the 348

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moment he receives Naamdan. It reflects his lack of faith and confidence if he tries to hide this identity. If people make fun of him then he should lovingly explain the philosophy of Radha Soami Mat. Tell them about the glory of Guru. Tell them anecdotes of the Guru. A day will come when they will also take initiation from Guru and will say upon meeting you, “I am also awakened.” Q577: Babaji, if a person has made a request for something and his request has not been granted should he make a second request? Answer: Son, asking for it a second time will embarrass the other person. He should develop his own self confidence and should have a strong belief in his Guru. Q578: Babaji, I work hard in sports but I don’t get success. Shall I continue this struggle or concentrate on my studies? Answer: Son, there are people who play sports as well as study. They get high merits in study and are also good players of sports. You should continue to focus on your studies but also devote time to sports; then only can you be successful. There are so many examples of people who have been good in academics as well as sports. Take inspiration from them. Q579: Babaji, is there any specific age for getting initiation, or can a person receive Naamdan at any age by His Blessing? Answer: Son, whenever, by His mercy, the thought of 349

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taking Naamdan comes in mind, we should talk about it to our Guru. Now, it solely depends on Him when he wishes to shower his mercy. There is no time or age limit for receiving Naamdan. If it is in our destiny, we will definitely get it. Q580: Babaji, in most of your satsangs you explain that everything is happening at His Will. Human beings are not responsible for these acts, as it is beyond their control. So why do we suffer? Answer: Son, an educated person analyzes so much that he tries to prove everything with logic. Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj says: The One Lord Himself destroys and also preserves. Nothing at all is in the hands of mortal beings. Adi Granth 281

Even though Gurbani says that everything is in God’s hand; it does not mean that we should sit idle. Gurbani also says that we have to go through our prarabdh, kriyaman and sanchit karmas. A person has worked hard for a month and gets a salary. On the way, while drinking water, he leaves his bag in which he had kept his money near the tap and runs to catch a bus. After going some distance, he remembers that he left the bag. His work was from his Kriyaman karmas which gave him his salary, but he lost it on the way due to his Prarabdh Karma. So do all your work honestly but leave the results to God. Son, people don’t know what will happen to them, but when something bad happens they become unhappy. 350

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Instead of blaming, we should try and understand that we are under the influence of our karmas. Q581: Babaji, it is said that there is no need for a person to go on pilgrimage if he has an old mother and father at home. That he will get the same blessings by serving his parents. If a situation arises where the child takes care of his father and in return the father ends up making mistakes and abusing the child; in such cases, what should the son do about his father? Answer: Son, if children take care of their father, it is said that they get more blessings than they would get by visiting religious places. For instance, while going to a religious place, if on the way you come across an animal or human being who is in trouble or pain, and you find that it needs help; if you sincerely take care of it and save its life, the blessings you get is far greater than you can get by going to religious places. Hazrat Junaid Bagdadi Sahib was on his way to Haj. On the way, he came across a dog lying on the road. Its legs were badly wounded and bleeding as a vehicle had run over him. He was in severe pain and the dog was not in a position to walk anymore. Hazrat Sahib decided to take care of the dog instead of going to Haj. He lifted the dog carefully, cleaned it and dressed its wounds. The bleeding stopped and the dog was feeling better. The dog was very thirsty but there was no provision for water so Hazrat Sahib went to a nearby well. There was no bucket or rope, so he made a cup out of leaves from the nearby trees and a rope using his turban, but still the cup did not reach the water. Now he removed the loin 351

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cloth which he wore around his waist and tied it to his turban and again dropped it down the well. He was now able to get the water out and managed to quench the dog’s thirst. Through proper care, the dog came back to life. There was a Mosque nearby. Hazrat Sahib went to the Mosque and said to the Mullah, “I am going for Haj, until I return, please take good care of this dog. Once I am back from Haj, I will take it along with me.” While he slept, Hazrat Sahib came in his dream and said, “Your Haj is accepted. You have taken good care of one of my souls and shown mercy and kindness towards it. This kind service of yours is far superior to going on Haj or any other pilgrimage. You need not go for Haj now. You see, if he had been adamant about going for Haj without nursing the dog, his Haj would not have been accepted. So he was rewarded for the services he rendered. In this way it is seen that more blessings are showered on people who serve others rather than just visiting religious places and organizing religious ceremonies. These examples taken from the spiritual stories help us to tread on the right path and lead a moral life. Yes, you have mentioned that in spite of serving your father, he curses and abuses you. His curses will have no affect on you, don’t worry. He himself has earned curses in his life. Whatever a person possesses, he can give only that to others. If he has not earned and received any virtuous possessions, how can he give you the same. Q582: Babaji, a father has brought up his children through sheer hardship. In the course of this he gets addicted to some intoxicant. Now he is old and unable to earn his livelihood. Isn’t it the duty of his children to take good care 352

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of him and provide him the intoxicant that he needs? Answer: Son, so the father indulged in intoxicants while toiling hard to nourish and support his children. He is old now and unable to earn so he has no money to buy his intoxicants. He is helpless and desires to take monetary help from his children to fulfill his needs. It is a pitiable situation and it is difficult for him to get rid of this addiction. I think considering his condition the children can help him in getting the intoxicant needed so that he leads the rest of his life peacefully. Although it is difficult to do, if service is rendered honestly and sincerely without grumbling, then it will not have any adverse effect in your karmic account. The act of providing intoxicants is morally wrong, but in such a situation this can be rectified through BhajanSimran. Son, I would like to stress and say that this decision is not applicable to other satsangis. Due to the acuteness of the circumstances, certain decisions have to be taken. Q583: Babaji, if a person gives one-tenth of his earnings to his parents will he be benefited? If the same money is donated to a religious institution will it gather the same reward? Which is better? Answer: Son, you have put forward a very complex question. It seems you are wise enough, but dual-minded. Considering my age and experience you are seeking an answer from me. Son, as far as sharing your earnings with your parents is considered, this is your foremost duty. They have sacrificed a lot in bringing you up, getting you educated and making you successful and capable of earning. Service to parents is service to the Almighty. Just 353

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as one buys something, paying with cash, in the same manner, service done to parents is a cash transaction and instantly rewarded. Serving parents is just like you would tender and care for a wound on your own body. You are not doing a favour or obliging anyone, it is our duty. Doing so, we please the Almighty as well as our parents. Service rendered to parents should in no way be compared to the services done for religious institutions. After serving your parents, depending upon your capacity a portion of your earnings should also be devoted to any religious place. Q584: Babaji, a person visits Dera with the intention of doing Sewa, however, he falls sick and is unable to render the intended service. He has Langar and tea and returns home. Will he still be benefited? Answer: Son, if a devotee visits Dera with the intention of doing Sewa but unfortunately falls sick and is unable to do so, then the noble thought itself protects him from some adversity which might have befallen on him. His problems become negligible. In Dera one should have Langar. He left home for Dera with a good intention. The moment he entered Dera and paid reverence to Guru, thereafter it becomes the responsibility of Guru to take care of him. Even if he falls ill and is unable to do the Sewa and repents over it, his Sewa is still accepted. If he had not visited Dera, maybe he would have met with an accident and become handicapped. He has escaped and been saved from the bad effects of his karmas. Q585: Babaji, all the members of my family have been 354

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initiated except one who eats meat and drinks alcohol. He also comes to Dera and listens to satsang. Will he be benefited? Will his family members be affected due to his karmas? Answer: Son, it’s a matter of luck that all the members of such a respectable family have been initiated except one who eats meat and is an alcoholic, but he also comes to Dera and listens to satsang. As a matter of fact, he is under the control of Kal. The Almighty had given birth to sixteen sons. Their names are as follows: Kurum Bhakt, Gyani Ji, Vivek Ji, Sahaj Bhakt, Niranjan, Santosh Ji, Subhav Ji, Anand Ji, Kshyama Ji, Nishkam Ji, Jalrangi Ji, Achint Ji, Prem Li, Deendayal Ji, Dhiraj Ji and Jogjit Ji. His fifth son is Niranjan, who after a great penance, has taken the stock of souls from the Almighty. He does not allow any soul to go beyond his realm towards the Almighty. This is how the whole system has been functioning against the Almighty. If a person born in a family does not take Naamdan, and is involved in immoral deeds, it brings a bad name and pain to the entire family. While doing Bhajan and Simran, their mind gets distracted. The company of wrong people also brings disrepute. The rest of the family members have already been initiated by the Guru. Guru will protect the family as it is his responsibility. By listening to satsang and getting the Darshan of Guru, he will be saved from the cycle of eighty-four. Guru’s Darshan gets imprinted in his mind. In his next birth, he will get initiated but will remain unhappy throughout his life. For his wrong doings, he has to bear the consequences. Sri Guru Ramdas ji Maharaj Says, 355

Questions & Answers Part 2 By falsehood and deception, none have found Him. Whatever you plant you shall eat. Adi Granth 40

As they plant, so shall they harvest. Adi Granth 366

The fifth Guru Sri Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj, in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji says: As she has planted, so does she harvest; such is the field of karma. Adi Granth 134

Whatever we have sown, we have to reap accordingly. Q586: Babaji, after getting initiated a person does lot of Bhajan and Simran, but does not see anything inside. After some time he stops doing Bhajan and Simran. When he submits this to his Guru, the Guru replies “Son, keep trying.” Babaji, how much time should be devoted to this? Answer: Son, your question is absolutely correct. A person gets initiated to unite with the Almighty. After receiving Naamdan, if there is no spiritual progress within, there is no need to panic. Swami Ji Maharaj says: Devote one life to devotion to Guru; attain Nam, in the second life: reach Mukti Pad (i.e. Sunn) in the third life; attain Nij Dham, the final abode, in the fourth life. Sarbachan 8:1:68

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Son, you are treading the right path, do not get disheartened and upset. It is only natural that if we do not attain our goal, we feel helpless and lost. Try to be regular in attending Satsang. During Bhajan-Simran if we contemplate and concentrate on the form of the Guru, then within five minutes we may attain the trance state. But if your attention is towards your wife and children; and inebriated with worldly honours and wealth, then you cannot attain spiritual progress inside even if you sit in Bhajan Simran for two hours. At the time of Bhajan when the vision of Guru appears at the eye centre, it’s like having a glimpse of the Almighty. This spiritual bliss experienced cannot be expressed in words. You keep doing your duty and practicing Bhajan-Simran. A time will come when you will definitely achieve your destination. Q587: Babaji, if a satsangi girl is beaten up by her drunkard husband should she bear the atrocities inflicted on her, or get a divorce and remarry. Answer: Son, the relationship between a husband and a wife is a strong bond of love. But you have mentioned that the husband abuses and beats his wife. It becomes very difficult for the wife. First of all try to find out why he is raising his hands on his wife. If the reason is known, one can come up with a solution. Son, as far as my point of view is concerned, the girl should not leave the path of love and affection. A day will come when she will be amply rewarded. Love is so powerful that it can even make a lion, the king of the jungle, bow down and surrender. If she is inclined to follow the 357

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path of love and affection then continue. Love only unites people and does not separate them. Q588: Babaji, the people whose homes you visit are very intimate to you. I think that they are graced and blessed more than those who are unable to get closer to you. Is this correct thinking Babaji? Answer: Son, a father has five sons. One son gets very intimate with his father through his love, devotion and dedication. The other sons lack these qualities and complain that the father does not love them. The father says, “I love you all equally.” You have a misconception which is making you sad. The father sees that everything that he has is equally distributed amongst his sons. Please relate any incident to justify that I have been partial or I have favoured anybody? Son, Santmat is a path of love and devotion. The more you love anybody, the same you get in return. Life is an echo. Stop being jealous and envious and change your views and start generating thoughts of love. Q589: Babaji, I am fond of playing cricket, but my parents compel me to concentrate on my studies. Should I listen to my heart or to my parents? Answer: Son, as far as studies is concerned it is very important. As far as sports is concerned, son, people schedule their programme in such a way that they are able to devote time not only to sports, but also for studying. You should get inspired by their example. You will only be successful if you can manage your time properly for 358

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studying and also for playing. Son, I have come across many boys who were very much fond of cricket, but hardly had time for studies. In spite of working hard and playing well, they could not qualify for the state cricket team. Playing for small teams is like passing time. Because of this, they could not even pass their exams. After completion of studies their classmates got good jobs (but they did not). Therefore, when you study, keep your attention toward your studies; and when you play, keep your attention focused on playing. Q590: Babaji, can there be any difference in the lifestyle of a child if he is named after a famous personality? Answer: Son, whether it creates a difference in his life or not is a different matter. If a child is named after a famous personality who was a great scholar of his time, but the child does not create a mark for himself, then it is a matter of embarrassment for the child. Q591: Babaji, after a person gets initiated, does he bear the consequences of his karmas or is he exempt from his wrong doings? Answer: Son, to kill any living being is a sin. Those who commit this sin purposely have to face harsh consequences. Certain creatures are unintentionally killed by us. For example, we step on certain insects while walking. Everyday while breathing we inhale microscopic germs. Some germs and viruses are also in the water and milk which we consume. These sins are punishable, but through initiation and by the practice of Bhajan Simran 359

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these sins are wiped off. Q592: Babaji, why do wrong thoughts arise in our mind? Will it ever end? Answer: Son, the Almighty did not sow the seed of bad thought in you. You alone are responsible for your thought process. The situation and circumstances play a very important role in our mind and thoughts, for instance, when a poor man becomes rich, his entire perception regarding the world changes. He might even indulge in certain immoral deeds which are against humanity. A person might resort to taking bribes. He might get involved in unethical works. It becomes imperative to take the company of a Saint and take His refuge in order to get all sins wiped off before it’s too late and you find yourself behind bars. In the sharan (refuge) of Saints we are transformed from the worst to the best. Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Maharaj says: O mind, contemplate the Sanctuary of God. Meditating on Him in remembrance, Ganika the prostitute was saved; enshrine His Praises within your heart. Adi Granth 632

Sri Guru Amar Das Ji Maharaj says: O my mind, coming to the Sanctuary of the Guru, you shall become immaculate and pure. Adi Granth 39

Q593: Babaji, it is said that a satsangi should have tolerance. What is the meaning of tolerance and what 360

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should be the code of conduct of a satsangi? Answer: Son, you have written in your letter that a person should have tolerance and good conduct. To create tolerance involves two or three steps. Firstly to get initiated, then to practice Bhajan-Simran, then to contemplate on the form of Guru within and merge yourself into the Almighty as a drop merges into the ocean. To become merely initiated is not sufficient; if done practically, only then can we become something. Q594: Babaji, nowadays people are taking the aid of ‘intoxicants’ to avoid stress. Is there any other way to avoid stress? Answer: Son, it is a fact that stress has become a common phenomenon in the majority of households today. It is not created within us by the Almighty, we are responsible for it. We wish to be at par with those people who are rich and famous, but we don’t want to work as hard as they do. We question their success and our abilities by generating tension and worries. We generate negative thoughts in our mind which thereby leads to stress and tension. Don’t be jealous, but try to get inspired. Pray to the Almighty to make you like them. Don’t burn yourself (in jealousy) if somebody is wearing expensive clothes. Request the Almighty to bless you to fulfill your desire of having a similar kind of clothes. Your wisdom gets burned up by jealousy. So, take the refuge of your Guru. Devote more time to Bhajan and Simran. Doing so, you will be blessed with everything. By going through your question, one can make out that you devote too little time to Satsang. 361

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Try to attend Satsang regularly. Q595: Babaji, how can a Guru bring back a person to the right path if he has deviated away from it. Answer: Son, firstly Guru never lets any person go to the wrong path, but the domain of Kal is so vast and strong that we are influenced by it and get entrapped in wrong doings. A person may get involved with a beautiful girl or commit thefts or robbery. He will be punished and may even be sent to jail. Guru warns him that it is wrong and he will have to face the consequences, but Kal exerts such pressure and influence on him that he does not pay heed and winds up in prison. It is seen that while spinning yarn, when the thread gets tangled and knotted, the wise and intelligent woman will cut the thread and join it at a new place and start again. In the same way, when a person takes the refuge of Guru, after wandering aimlessly and realizing his mistake, Guru showers blessings on him and puts him on the right track. The problem is that people don’t understand this early enough, so it becomes too late when they have the realization. Guru is so gracious to them that they turn over a new leaf. He also ends their circle of eighty-four. Q596: Babaji, what is the difference between faith and superstition? Answer: Son, after receiving Naamdan, when a person practices Bhajan Simran and gets connected to his Guru within, then nobody can deter or shake his faith. He is devoted to his Guru with implicit faith and trust. Another 362

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person is also initiated but is not devoted and does not practice Bhajan–Simran. Instead of having trust and faith in his Guru he walks on the path of superstition. Being devoid of real faith in Guru he cannot be successful. Q597: Babaji, is there any other world beyond ours? Answer: Son, this is clearly mentioned in Sri Guru Granth Sahib: There are nether worlds beneath nether worlds, and hundreds of thousands of heavenly worlds above. The Vedas say that you can search and search through them all until you grow weary. Adi Granth 5

Q598: Babaji, it is said that there are many other bodies separate from this physical body. What is the difference between these bodies? For example, what is the difference between the astral body which is seen in dreams, and the causal body? Answer: Son, bodies are of three kinds: physical, astral, and causal. The elements in these bodies are different in each case. Physical body is one which we can see through our naked eyes. It consists of five elements. They are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Earth Water Fire Air 363

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5. Ether (sky) When we dream, we are in the Suksham body. It consists of seventeen elements. These seventeen elements are as follows: Five organs of action: 1) Hands 2) Feet 3) Lips 4) Rectum 5) Genital Organ Five sense organs: 1) Eyes 2) Ears 3) Nose 4) Tongue 5) Skin Four attributes of consciousness: 1) Mind 2) Wisdom 3) Intellect 4) Ego Three attributes or states of matter 1) Rajo guna (Activity) 2) Tamo guna (Inertia or sloth) 3) Sato guna (Harmony or purity) Just above this we have one more body which we call causal body. We can understand this body only when through practice of meditation we reach the third eye. The causal body is comprised of the purified form of the five elements. They are mentioned as below: 364

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1) 2) 3) 4) 5)

Shabad (Sound) Saparash (Touch, feel or sensation) Roop (form or shape) Ras (extract, liquid or juice) Gandh (flavour or smell)

Within the physical body is the astral body and within the astral body is the causal body. This physical body will be finished one day. It is an abode made of the five elements of earth, water, fire, air and ether in which the soul resides. After getting initiation, through practice of meditation, we can go beyond these three bodies and get connected to the Almighty. As long as we are inside these three bodies, we are always in pain and agony. It’s a true fact that one is happier in the causal body than the other two, but in all these bodies there is imprisonment and entanglement. Unless, we are free from these bodies, we will never be happy. Q599: Babaji, do we attain the Almighty by slaughtering animals and other beings for the purpose of sacrificial offerings made to the dieties? Answer: Son, in Santmat, violence, slaughtering, killing, etc. is strictly prohibited. We can get united with the Almighty only through one method: to die while living. For this you need to get initiation, follow the Path taught by Guru and visualize the form of Guru inside. Apart from this there is no other substitute or alternative method for the unification of the soul with the Almighty. Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj says: 365

Questions & Answers Part 2 How may I meet my Master, the King, the Lord of the Universe? Is there any Saint, who can bestow such celestial peace, and show me the Way to Him? Adi Granth 204

Q600: Babaji, what is the best time to do Bhajan and Simran? Answer: Son, this question has been raised earlier in Questions & Answers Part-1. Do read that book if you have not already. Since you want to know, I’ll again explain that there is no specific time for doing Bhajan-Simran. The Great Saints have emphasized and suggested the early morning hours between 3:00 am and 6:00 am as the best, and the ideal time for meditation; the reason being that there are no disturbances during those hours. At that time we are also free from our daily activities. But you can do Bhajan Simran whenever you get time. The only thing is that it should be done with dedication and concentration. Q 601: Babaji, what is the difference between a Satguru and a common man? Answer: Son, there are two electrical motors and they both seem to be same. One is connected to the electrical power but the other is not. Now both are in standstill condition. When the motors are switched on, it will be known which motor is connected to the power source. Similarly Satguru is connected to the Supreme Power, the Almighty. Satguru is so deeply absorbed or engrossed in the Almighty that he has become His incarnation. A common man is just like that electric motor which is not connected to an electric 366

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outlet, which means that he is not connected to the Almighty due to lack of Bhajan Simran. Q602: Babaji, has Kal created this whole world? Are people in this world suffering here due to their own deeds, or are they getting punished by God? Answer: Son, if you read Anurag Sagar you will get the answer to many of your queries. I reiterate that the whole universe has been created by the Holy Name. That Holy Naam is the Supreme Power, or we can call it the Almighty. He has created this Universe after a lot of deliberation. Q603: Babaji, what happens to the soul when it gets liberated from the body? Answer: Son, it is clearly explained in the Holy Scriptures that soul is a part of the Almighty. It is stated in the Bani: Says Kabir, our soul is a part of Almighty. Adi Granth 871

The Almighty is the Ocean whereas the soul is like a droplet of water in it. God has no color and shape. Shri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj had stated: He has no form, no shape, and no color. God is beyond the three Attributes (Harmony, Activity, Sloth). They alone understand Him, O Nanak, with whom He is pleased. Adi Granth 283

If God has no shape and color, then how can the soul? 367

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When we are aware and know that God is formless, then it is not sensible to consider the soul having a definite shape. You can understand it by an analogy: when a balloon filled with air bursts, then the air inside it gets absorbed into the atmosphere. Similarly, after death, the soul gets absorbed into the Storehouse from where it originated, which has no color or form. Q604: Babaji, how many years does it take for a soul to complete the cycle of 84? Answer: Son, a lot of calculation is needed to arrive at the solution to this question. It would not be an easy task for the computer either. If we take the Holy Name from Guru and practice it, but we are not redeemed in this first birth, then we will get the human body again in the next birth. Guru has promised to purify and liberate our soul within four births. In reply to your question it is to be noted that there are 30 lakh type of trees, 27 lakh type of insects, 14 lakh type of birds, 9 lakh type of water animals, and 4 lakh type of demons, deities, humans, etc. Even if 10 years are spent in each birth then it comes out to be 8 crore 40 lakhs (eight-four million years). Even the hills and mountains have got a lifetime of thousands and lakhs of years. There are some trees whose life is as long as 5000 years. If we keep on counting then we will be more confused and won’t arrive at any solution. Q605: Babaji, in the scriptures there is mention of ‘Brahm Gyan’, kindly tell us something about it. Answer: Son, it is very clear that Brahm is a stage or level 368

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in the course of our Spiritual Journey. The knowledge which we attain after reaching that stage is known as ‘Brahm Gyan’. Q606: Babaji, up until now, how many times has the world been created and destroyed, and how long will this process continue? Answer: Son, if you have to complete the course in general knowledge then you will require the answer of this question. However, our only aim is to merge our soul with the Almighty. It is obvious that after the destruction of this world it was again created. It cannot be estimated exactly how many times this universe has been destroyed and created again. No Saint or scripture has mentioned this fact. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj has stated in Japuji Sahib: The day and the date are not known to the Yogis, nor is the month or the season. The Creator who created this creation - only He Himself knows. Adi Granth 4

Regarding Grand Dissolution, the creation up through Bhanwargufa is destroyed. If God wishes, then he recreates this universe again by the Nam. The process continues like this. In order to get more information regarding the age of the universe, the age of Brahma, Vishnu, Shivji, etc., read ‘Questions and Answers Part I’. Everything is explained in this book. Q607: Babaji, please explain the meaning of the quotation 369

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given by Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj ‘Panch Parvan Panch Pardhan’. Answer: Son, the explanation of the quotation which you have asked has been explained by many Saints and philosophers. You should try to study that. I have also explained this in my book Kita Pasawo Eko Kawao. You can read that also. Hope you will get the answer to your question from that. Q608: Babaji, I believe that human life is precious, and we also need to adopt a Perfect Guru. How can we distinguish between the one who is Perfect and the Guru who is not? Answer: Son, you seem to be very wise as you have understood these things. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj has stated: Out of all the 8.4 million species of beings, God blessed mankind with glory. That human who misses this chance, shall suffer the pains of coming and going in reincarnation. Adi Granth 1075

Serving the Guru, Bhakti is practiced. Then, this human body is obtained. Even the gods long for this human body. So, through this body, do meditation, and service to God. Adi Granth 1159

You are absolutely right that we need to adopt a Perfect Guru in our life. According to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, 370

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Shabad Guru is the Perfect Guru. When we practice meditation, Satguru gets manifested inside us who helps us to merge with the Shabad Guru. Guru Sahib had stated: The Name of the Lord, Har, Har, is the boat, and the Word of the Guru’s Shabad is the boatman, to carry us across. Adi Granth 833

One who serves the Guru, knows his Lord and Master. His grief is erased, and he realizes the True Word of the Shabad. Adi Granth 416

The human form of Guru is made of the five elements. He provides us the knowledge of Satguru and Shabad Guru. We ignorant beings are unable to understand the true meaning of Satguru and Shabad Guru. The Perfect Living Master is the one who explains all these things in detail and helps us to merge with the Shabad Guru. Q609: Babaji, there is a saying that one cannot attain real Bhakti without controlling his mind. What is mind and how can it be controlled? Answer: Son, mind and soul are the two powers which are controlling the entire universe from within. Soul is the daughter of the Almighty and mind is a part of Kal Niranjan. Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji has said that one wins the world by controlling his mind. If one has to win (gain) himself or the world, it is always better to control your mind (and win yourself). There is only one way to control your mind and that is through the Nam comprised of Five Precious Words. After getting initiated, through regular Bhajan371

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Simran, one can gain control over his mind. The process of controlling the mind has been discussed in Shri Guru Granth Sahib. How very rare are those in this world who, through the Guru, subdue their minds, and contemplate the Word of the Shabad. Adi Granth 1125

Each and every moment, my mind roams and rambles, and runs all over the place. It does not stay in its own home, even for an instant. But when the bridle of the Shabad, the Word of God, is placed over its head, it returns to dwell in its own home. Adi Granth 1179

Q610: Babaji, how can we remain gracefully balanced in both the states of happiness and sorrow? Answer: Son, the answer to this question has already been given in Question Answer Part-1. Do try to read it. Q611: Babaji, how do you distinguish between deities and demons? Answer: Son, it is clear through their names who they are. A pious person is called a deity and a cruel person is called a demon. Many such great souls have been treated as deities in the Holy Scriptures. Among those, some of them are treated as the Almighty by us. Thus a deity is one who is closer to the Almighty and believes in Him. A demon is one who neither believes in the existence of the Almighty nor involves himself in good deeds; although he too is considered one of the souls of the Almighty. 372

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Q612: Babaji, can humans become deities or divine beings? Answer: Son, humans are born as divine beings. You don‘t require any degree, or to pass any exam to be like deity. You need to imbibe virtues in yourself to be addressed as a divine being. It should be noted that Lord Rama and Lord Krishna were regarded as deities because of their divine, virtuous behavior and attitude. Son, don‘t entangle yourself in such issues unnecessarily. Why deliberate on matters which are irrelevant and take you nowhere? One should raise questions pertaining to ones personal problems or spiritual matters, which need a solution. Q613: Babaji, it is said that everything has been created by a special power just as the Almighty is the Creator of the universe; but who has given birth to the Almighty? Answer: Son, the Almighty is the Creator of everything. Now who has given birth to the Almighty? This Power has developed on its own. The moment you come to know who has created the Almighty, you will attain a higher stature than the Almighty. It is like asking a question as to whether the chicken or the egg came first. One cannot attain positive results if he continually raises questions. For example, if you come to know who has created the Almighty, and people start believing it, then you will be treated as a learned scholar. The result of this will be that you won’t be able to attain Him. You should try your best to devote maximum time to your Spiritual Practices within. Then the results will be positive. 373

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Q614: Babaji, we all know death is inevitable, so why are people afraid to die? Answer: Son, people are afraid of death because they have not experienced it. The moment they experience it, even if it is before their final liberation from this world, they will be free from the fear of death. In order to remove the fear of death the Great Saints advocate that one should die while living. This doesn’t mean that one should commit suicide or end his life, it simply means that one should experience the Nam within through practice and experience death while still living. When we practice Nam after getting initiated from Guru, then we die while living and experience death. It has been stated in the Bani: O Nanak, remain dead while yet alive - practice such a Yoga. Adi Granth 730

Q 615: Babaji, when you initiate souls, some experience Spiritual Bliss at that very moment while others do not. Please explain why? Answer: Son, this depends upon the piousness of the disciple. If his heart is pure, he experiences the spiritual bliss that very moment. For example if someone wishes to be part of military but has a cataract problem, he does not get selected. When he goes to a doctor to get operated on, his eyesight again becomes normal. I think you have understood what I mean to say. If in a previous birth someone has taken Nam but not succeeded completely, then in the next birth it will not be difficult to go inside as 374

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soon as Nam is taken. Q616: Babaji, is there any relationship between ‘Mind’ and ‘Kal’? Answer: Son, mind is the agent of Kal and it abides by his laws. You can say, it is the son of the Kal and obeys him. Mind creates obstacles in the unification of the soul with the Almighty. When we receive Naamdan and practice Bhajan-Simran, then we see the form of the Guru within. At that time the mind is in our control and becomes our companion thereby helping us in meditation without any obstructions. The mind that was going astray and was the greatest enemy in our meditation also starts enjoying Spiritual Bliss experienced during Bhajan-Simran. Q617: Babaji, it is said that to know God we should first know ourselves. Please clarify? Answer: Son, Atma (soul) which is a part of the Almighty resides in all beings. This body which we have received is mortal but Soul is immortal. To know God we need to know our soul first. That is why it is said we know God through our own self. Socrates had rightly stated ‘Know Thyself’. Guru Nanak Dev Ji has also stated: The Lord is in the soul, and the soul is in the Lord. This is realized through the Guru’s Teachings. Adi Granth 1153

Q618: Babaji, if a person troubles another person in this birth, then in the next birth the person who has suffered 375

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will trouble that person who has inflicted pain upon him. If this is so, then this process will go on forever. Is there no end to this? Answer: Son, this cycle or system can break if a person gets initiated and puts more stress on Bhajan-Simran. It is just like when a boat comes to the shore after a river dries up. As long as there is water in the dam, the boat keeps sailing. In the same way if we keep generating ill and negative thoughts the mind will keep floating like a boat. To stop these negative thoughts it is important to receive Naamdan and practice meditation. Meditation helps to curb the bad and negative thoughts from being generated. Whether a person is troubling another person is also the result of our thoughts. Whatever deeds we perform are either good or bad. We have to face their consequences. In the next birth we have to reap whatever we have sown. The result of evil deeds is bad, and that of virtuous deeds is good. Q619: Babaji, we have many photos of yours in our house. Non-Satsangis raise questions on having so many images. What should be the answer? Answer: Son, you have used the photos to decorate your house. I have visited the homes of people who display images of dogs, cats, horses, tigers, etc. Son, an image is an image. Saints have always professed that we cannot gain Spiritual Development through photos. In certain cases, for example, if your Guru has left for His heavenly abode and we are not able to visualize His image, or if we are unable to visit Dera to have Guru’s Darshan, then the 376

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photos can help us to manifest Guru’s image in our mind. In the photo, we see the eyes, ears, nose and face and gaze at the photo with adoration. Then close your eyes, His image will appear inside for a minute or two. This external practice of viewing the photo helps us to visualize the form of the Guru within. It is not necessary to display the photo of your Guru in the entire house. If someone opposes the display of Guru’s photo, then ask them if the Guru’s image should be replaced by the images of thieves or dacoits or animals. When we see the photograph of Saints or Gurus, we are focused towards Spirituality. Don’t get disturbed by such matters. Change your attitude. Deliberate and adopt measures by which you can visualize the form of Guru within. Q620: Babaji, it is said that those who get initiated by a Perfect Guru never go to hell. Should initiated people abstain from desiring heaven also? Answer: Son, Saints have expressed through their discourses that an initiated person (Satsangi) won’t go to hell. The Stamp of the Holy Nam gets imprinted upon his soul. Because Guru is always there with him, He does not allow any soul to go towards Kal, and the agents of Dharam Raj cannot touch him. If the agents are unable to take hold of him, how can he go to hell? That is why I always say with full conviction that an initiated person can take rebirth but not go back into the cycle of eighty-four or hell. An initiated person never desires heaven, nor should he ever do so. One has to be born again as a human being even after spending a certain duration in heaven. Thus, if one 377

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has received initiation, he should free himself from thoughts of heaven, rituals and customs, and make BhajanSimran his priority and aim in life. Q621: Babaji, people plea and pray to Guru for their own well being. Can they pray for the well being and long life of their Guru or is it just foolishness? Answer: Son, a prayer is a prayer. When you have these beneficial feelings, by all means you can do so. Once I had visited someone’s place in Ludhiana. The woman in the house did not say anything but her five year old daughter said, “Baba Ji, you should take care of your health.” I was really touched and appreciated her sweet words of concern. She was her mother’s microphone. She said what her mother had taught her. One hears the same thing from the speaker what is being said into the microphone. I told her, “My child, I will take care of myself.” These words reflect and portray her noble thoughts, and not her foolishness. Q622: Babaji, if a person is deeply attached to his Guru, is it due to the Sewa dedicated to the Dera of Guru by his ancestors or because of his previous karmas? Answer: Son, if you are talking about a person who has taken birth after his parents got initiated, and his parents are spiritually inclined, then he will also be a devotee because he has inherited this from his parents. It is normal to have similar tendencies like your parents. When a child is in his mother’s womb and his parents thoughts are towards stealing, the child will be born a thief. On the other 378

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hand if parents are spiritually inclined then the child is born with traits like that. The child gets influenced by the attitude and behavior of his parents just as you have said that it is because of the Sewa of his ancestors that he is deeply attached to his Guru. Since good deeds always give positive results, it can also be possible that because of his previous good Karmas he was born into such a good and devoted family. Q623: Babaji, nowadays girls are coming forward in many aspects in every field of life. Can any girl or lady perform a lead role as sewadaar in your Dera? Even Bibi Amarjeet had spent her entire life in the service of the Dera. Answer: Daughter, you have given the example of Mrs. Amarjeet. She was disabled and couldn’t move her lower limbs. She was a teacher in a school. After performing her teaching duties she would come back to Dera. She was very particular about her Simran and Bhajan. She had no other work. She also used to perform the job of writing and reading. You seem to be a nice and wise girl. A single lady or girl is not allowed to stay in the Dera. If she is accompanied by her parents, brother or husband then she can stay and do Sewa in the Dera as long as she wishes. If she wants to stay for one or two days then there is no problem; otherwise she is not allowed to stay without a guardian. You can do Sewa through mind, body and money while staying anywhere. Try to devote more time to Simran-Bhajan. It is difficult for a young girl to spend the whole day alone in the Dera. If possible, try to spend onetenth of your income in a noble cause. Try to visit Dera at 379

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least on new moon days and everything will be alright. When you come in Dera with your husband you can stay as long as you like. That will be better. Q624: Babaji, it is said that the Radiant Form of the Almighty gets manifested in a pure heart, and it is also said that God is within everyone whether he is good or bad. How is this possible? Answer: Son, God has created the human being and his heart. There are two small children of ten or twelve years of age. A baby sparrow is injured and falls to the ground. One child tries to help and save it while the other one tries to harm it. Both are of the same age but their thoughts and attitude are different. One who tries to save it has a pure heart. God resides in pure hearts. Dear son, God is omnipotent. There is water beneath every piece of land on the Earth. Only the soil and stones on the surface of the earth are different. Whenever we dig up and take out the water, it becomes useful to us. Thus God is present inside everyone but manifests inside a pure heart only. Q625: Babaji, why was Ahilaya, the wife Goutam Rishi, cursed even though she was a faithful wife? Answer: Son, when Goutam Rishi saw his wife alone with another man, he got angry and cursed her, and made her into a rock. The curse of holy men cannot be nullified and does not go in vain. Whatever Saints says is bound to happen. Afterward he realized the fact that his wife was innocent and was cheated, but the curse was bound to be fulfilled. He could not take back his curse; therefore he 380

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gave a solution to liberate her from the curse, that when Lord Rama would come she would get redeemed. It is clear that the effectiveness of the curse depends upon the power of the saint, but a curse cannot be taken back. That is why Ahilaya was affected by the curse, but she was redeemed because of her innocence. It can also be said that it was the wish of God that Ahilaya and Indra had to face such crisises.

Radha Soami

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GLOSSARY Ahankar

- Egotism

Ajapa Jap

- Repetition of holy names going on automatically

Amritsar

- Name of a city in Punjab, the pool of nectar. Esoterically, the third region, where the soul, having been cleansed of all its material coverings (physical, astral and causal) and the three attributes (harmony, action or inertia and darkness), shine in its own light.

Amritsar

- The Pool of Nectar

Anami Desh

- The Nameless region. Esoterically, the eighth and highest spiritual region.

And (Anda)

- Astral region, a subtle region between pinda and Brahmand.Lower portion of Brahmand

Anhad

- Unbounded, limitless

Arjun

- A character in the epic Mahabharat.

Atma

- Soul

Ashtangi

- Also called: Adi Bhawani, Eka Mai, AdiKumari, Shakti, Adi Maya, Ashtangi,

Maya(Illusion)

- The first female created by God. Consort of Kal Niranjan.

Ardas

- An appeal to God or Guru (or anyone else) 383

Questions & Answers Part 2 Araj

- An appeal to Satguru - having five elements and sitting face to face.

Asa

- Hope (develops in the mind)

Baba Bagga Singh Ji

- The Master who was the founder of Radha Soami Dera, Tarn Taran

Baba Charan Singh Ji

- The fourth Master of Radha Soami Satsang, Beas

Baba Deva Singh ji

- The second Master of Radha Soami Dera Baba Bagga Singh, Tarn Taran.

Baba Gurinder Singh Ji - The present Master of Radha Soami Satsang, Beas. Baba Jagat Bahadur Ji - The third Master of Radha Soami Satsang Beas. Baba Jaimal Singh Ji

- The Master and founder of Radha Soami Satsang, Beas.

Baba Pratap Singh Ji

- The third Master of Radha Soami, Dera Baba Bagga Singh, Tarn Taran.

Baba Sawan Singh Ji

- The second Master of Radha Soami Satsang Beas.

Beas

- Radha Soami Dera situated on the banks of river Beas, in Punjab.

Bhai Joga Singh Ji

- Disciple of Guru Gobind Singh ji.

Bhajan

- Meditation or listening to the Celestial Music, Audible Life Stream, Sound Current. 384

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Bhanwar Gupha

- Revolving cave, the fourth spiritual region.

Brahmand

- The entire universe.

Bramha

- One of the three main gods of Hindu Religion. Creator of the world and Kal Niranjan’s son.

Charan Kamal

- Lotus feet, feet

Chaokri

- Four

Darshan

- Vision or sight, particularly of some saint or holy person.

Dasam Granth

- The tenth book (written by Guru Gobind Singh ji)

Daswan Dwar

- The tenth door and appellation of the third spiritual region.

Divya Chakshu

- The third eye

Dhun

- Divine Sound, inner melody.

Dhur Dham

- The region of Almighty.

Dhyan

- Contemplation

Dwapar Yuga

- The third Yuga

Eka Mai

- The mother of three triads of Hindu philosophy. Wife of Niranjan.

Five Destinations

- Sahansdal Kamal, Trikuti, Daswan Dwar, Bhanwar Gupha and Sach Khand 385

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- Attributes of matter. Satogun (harmony), Rajogun (action or activity), Tamogun (inertia or darkness)

Ganges

- A sacred river in India.

Guru Angad Dev ji

- The second Guru in the line of succession of Guru Nanak.

Guru Arjun Dev

- The fifth Guru in the line of succession of Guru Nanak and the son of Guru Ram Das ji. He collected, classified and compiled the writings of the Adi Granth.

Guru Gaddi

- Seat of the Guru. “Seat” occupied by the present Guru.

Guru Gobind Singh

- The tenth Guru in the line of succession of Guru Nanak.

Guru Granth Sahib, Adi Granth - The primal scripture of Sikh religion. Guru Ramanand

- A great saint and master of Kabir Sahib.

Guru Ram Das

- The fourth Guru in the line of succession of Guru Nanak. He founded the city now known as Amritsar, in Punjab, India. He composed more than 600 verses in the Adi Granth.

Gur Bani

- The verses or teachings and sayings of Gurus, the Adi Granth is some times called as Bani or Gur Bani.

Haddis

- The Holy book of the Muslim religion. 386

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Hajj

- The religious pilgrimage of Muslims to Mecca and Madina.

Hans

- The pure form of soul in True Region

Hir-Ranjha

- Famous Lovers

Hirday Chakra

- The fourth ganglion or plexus in the body.

Indriya Chakra

- The second ganglion or plexus in the body.

Japuji Sahib

- First chapter in Guru Granth Sahib.

Jathar-agni

- The fire of the stomach which helps to digest food, the secreting of hydrochloric acid.

Jiva

- living entity, living being.

Kal

- God of death

Kabaddi

- a game

Kabir Sahib

- A great saint of India who lived in Banaras, writer of Anurag Sagar.

Kali Yuga

- the fourth Yuga.

Kam

- lust

Kantha Chakra

- the fifth ganglion or plexus in the body.

Karma

- deed.

Karunamaya

- full of bliss 387

Questions & Answers Part 2 Khand Brahmand

- the regions and the universe

Kriyaman Karma

- the new actions performed during the present life.

Shri Krishan

- Hindu God

Krodh

- anger

Kurum Bhagat

- Son of the Supreme Soul. One of the sixteen sons (powers)

Lobh

- greed

Lomash Rishi

- The son of Brahma

Langer

- Free community kitchen

Maha Sunn

- the region of intense darkness, situated in Sunn or Tenth Gate below Bhanwar Gupha. The great void. A level of impenetrable darkness that can be crossed only with the help of a True Guru.

Mahesh

- The third of the Hindu triad. Shiva the destroyer.

Mansa

- Mansa or desire is a hankering after something.

Moh

- Attachment

Mool Chakra

- the root ganglion in the body, the rectal plexus.

Muninder

- the name of Kabir Sahib in the previous incarnation in Treta Yug. 388

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Nam

- The creative power, which cannot be expressed in speech or writing or heard with the physical ears.

Nam Dan

- Initiation into Surat Shabad Yoga by a Sant Sat Guru or Perfect Master.

Nabhi Chakra

- The third ganglion or plexus in the body.

Nij Dham

- The real abode.

Niranjan

- Kal, the God of Death.

Onkar

- Brahm, the Lord of the second spiritual region.

Pandavas

- The Five sons of King Pandu and Queen Kunti: Yudhistir, Bhim, Arjun, Nakul, and Sahdev.

Paramatma

- Supreme Soul

Pind

- The physical body

Pran

- Life force, vital force.

Pralabdh Karma

- The deeds of the previous life, the destiny karma.

Prashad

- Guru’s Grace. While distributing Guru looks at the food and it becomes Prashad.

Rajo Guna

- Action or activity

Sach Khand

- True or Imperishable region. The fifth spiritual region. 389

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- Congregation

Sahaj Bhagat

- One of the Sons of Supreme Soul.

Sahaj Avastha

- Trance stage, a level of spiritual consciousness. While seeing the eyes do not see, while hearing the ears do not hear, while speaking the tongue does not speak.

Sanchit or sinchit Karma - Karmas stored up from previous lives. Sahansdal Kanwal

- The first spiritual stage.

Sant-Mat

- Path of the Saints.

Saran, Sharan

- Refuge

Satguru

- The True Master

Satnam

- True Name

Satlok

- True Region

Sato Guna

- Harmony

Sat Purush

- God the True Lord

Satsang

- Congregation

Satya Yuga

- The first cycle of time

Satsukrit

- The name of of Kabir Sahib in Sat Yug (the first cycle of time)

Sewa

- Serving the devotees and the Satguru free of cost. 390

Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Shabad or Shabd

- Word, Poem from Guru Granth Sahib

Simran Bhajan

- Repetition of five holy names, meditation

Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji - The first Guru of Sikh religion. Surat Shabda

- Soul and the Sound Current

Swamiji Maharaj

- The founder of Radha Soami Path

Tamo Guna

- Inertia or darkness

Tisra Til

- Third eye

Third Eye

- Single Eye

Tilliger

- Name of a bird

Treta Yuga

- The second cycle of time

Trikuti

- An appellation of the Second Spiritual region on the path of the Saints.

Trishna

- Thirst, longing

Tulsi Sahib

- A great saint of hathras, auther of Ghat Ramayan

Vahiguru

- Guru is great

Vedas

- Knowledge as embodied in the four holy books of the Hindus: Rig Veda, Sam Veda, Yajur Veda and Atharva Veda.

Vishnu

- Second of the Hindu triad.

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- One of the sons of Supreme Soul (among Sixteen Sons (Powers) of Supreme Soul)

Yuga

- Age or cycle of time, the Hindu scriptures have divided time into four Yugas: Sat Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapar Yuga and Kali Yuga.

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Sant Baba Kehar Singh Ji Our Publications on Santmat 1.

Aape Sristi hukmi sub saji

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Anurag Sagar Part I

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3.

Anurag Sagar Part II

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4.

Anurag Sagar Part III

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Barah Maha

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Bhed Marg - Aarti

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Chandar Barne

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Darshan Bhetat Paap Sab Nasahi

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Dil Ka Huzra Saaf Kar

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Ghat Ramayan

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Gun Gobind Gayo Nahin

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Gur Bin Ghor Andhar

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Hari Hari Naam Nidhan Le

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Janam Sakhi Baba Bagga Singh Ji

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Janam Janam Vich Aa Ke Beti

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Jis Nu Prem Man Vasaye

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Kaal Ke Charitar

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Kaiya Kanchan Shabad Vichara

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Keeta Pasao Eko Kwao

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Kudrat Karnehar Apara

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Machhali Jaal Na Janeya

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Marne Ki Chinta Nahin

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Naam Lene Se Pehle Va Baad

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Nihachal Ek Sada Sach Soyee

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Parmatma Ki Khoj

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Sant Jeev Ki Vipati Chhudhave

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Satsang Tulsi Sahib

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Satgur Hamra Bharam Gavaia

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Shabad Sangrah Part 1

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Shabad Sangrah Part 2

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Shabad Sangrah Part 3

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Shanke Ashanke Part 1

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Shanke Ashanke Part 2

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Before And After Initiation

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Guru - Dispeller of Darkness

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Publication Department Radha Soami Dera Baba Bagga Singh Railway Road, Tarn Taran 143401 Dist. Tarn Taran, Punjab, India 394

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