Sharing Your Faith

God is One Sharing Your Faith With The Neighbors

One God in All Sharing Your Faith With Your Neighbors

Sikh Council on Religion and Education

“Sharing Your Faith With Your Neighbors”

A Celebration of the Birth of Guru Nanak, Founder of the Sikh Religion

Program Objective:

'Sharing Your Faith with Your Neighbors' is a program that has been created to involve our community. It is directed towards our neighbors, religious and civic leaders, teachers, and elected officials in our communities.  The objective of this event will be to provide understanding among non-Sikhs about the Sikh religion and its traditions.  On November 2nd, 2003, simultaneously, at more than 100 Gurdwaras all over the USA and other parts of the world, we create an opportunity for our neighbors to know more about us.  This program is to coincide with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab, being celebrated on November 8th this year.  This program will give non-Sikhs the opportunity to meet us, and observe our religious services and partake in Langar.

In recommending this grassroots event we have drawn upon the experience of other faith communities that have a long tradition of inviting their neighbors to observe their services and participate in meals to create awareness about themselves. Although we have resided and worked in America and other countries for more than 100 years, the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks revealed that most people are ignorant of our beliefs and identity.  Because of our distinctive identity we are erroneously associated with terrorists, making us a vulnerable minority.  Even our children have not been left untouched by this wave of prejudice.  Our children are being victimized by being taunted and bullied by their peers in schools.  This has caused tremendous emotional and psychological stress to our children and us.  Therefore through this program we hope to create more understanding and awareness about our faith and ourselves.

Having this program around Gurpurab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji will go a long way in creating more understanding and awareness about the Sikhs.  By holding this program worldwide we will portray a sense of unity and purpose within our community and share our blessings with others.  We feel there is no better way to celebrate our beloved Guru's birthday but to get together as a community and make a difference.

We sincerely pray that every Gurdwara makes an effort to become an important part of this historic event. We are also joined by prominent Sikh organizations in support of this type of event.  Per our suggestion this special 1.5 hour-long program can be organized towards the end of the Divan from 12:30PM to 2PM.  It would include introductions, audiovisual on Sikhism, speeches, Keertan, comments by guests, and a conclusion.

We are working with other national organizations to co-sponsor this event and to help get the word out.  In addition national and local media is being contacted.  For local contacts each Gurdwara is encouraged to appoint their own spokesperson and two youth coordinators.  We will provide all the information needed to make it a successful event.  In addition, we will be available on the phone to help with anything else.  Please send us your specific contact information ASAP so that we can send you all the materials that we have prepared for everyone's convenience.

Guru Rakha,

Dr. Rajwant Singh

SCORE, Chairman

Phone: (301) 529-0674

Email: rajwant@aol.com

Washington, DC

Dear Gurdwara / Sikh Representative,

The program itself is meant to coincide with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Gurpurab on November 8. Many Gurdwaras are hosting this event on November 2, but others might find it more convenient later in the month. Although the program is outlined as a daytime event, it could certainly be held in the evening. In fact, all the materials are suggestions, and can be used as the Gurdwara committee deems appropriate, in whatever way facilitates your event. As a team and a resource, we have tried our best to provide as many of the needed materials as possible, to simplify the logistics for each individual Gurdwara. Many of the thoughts, suggestions and materials are based on our personal experiences with interfaith events. We can also be available by phone to assist in any further way. Your suggestions and feedback will be important, so that we can improve upon the program in the future.

For Further Information or any help with the program, feel free to contact the below mentioned individuals:

Dr. Jasjit Kaur Ahuja

Program Coordinator

Phone: (714) 478-4008

Email: gsahuja@uci.edu

Los Angeles, California

Sher JB Singh

Director of Community Relations

Phone: (703) 626-6119

Email: sher_singh@sikhcouncilusa.org

Washington, DC

Navneet Singh Narula

Youth Program Coordinator

Phone: (404) 915-2300

Email: Navneet.S.Narula@accenture.com

Atlanta, Georgia

Bhai Gurdarshan Singh

Religious Affairs Director

Phone: (301) 309-9528

Email: bhaigurdarshansingh@hotmail.com

Bhai Sawinder Singh

Gurdwara Outreach Director

Phone: (301) 309 - 8955

Email: Singhsawinder@hotmail.com

Package Contents

This package has been developed to help in planning the Sharing Your Faith with Your Neighbors event. All this information will also be downloadable from our website. Further detailed information will be made available for all aspects of this event. Most of the instructions here can be handled by the Sikh youth volunteers in the respective cities.

This package includes:

1. General tasks that should be completed before and on the day of the event.

2. Basic information on Sikhism that should accompany the invitation letter.

3. Background logistics information that should be provided to the guests

4. Sample invitation letter.

5. Suggested guest list.

6. Sample press release for the local news contacts.

7. Talking points to be used as necessary when contacted by the media.

8. A talk on Guru Nanak and Sikhism (In addition we are working on an audiovisual presentation and documentary).

9. Suggested agenda for the event.

10. Suggested closing remarks.

11. Suggested Shabads to be sung during the event.

12. Contact Information for

We hope you will make use of the information and also send us your suggestions to make it better.

Tasks before the day of the event:

1. The Gurdwara committee might consider appointing a task force with 2 spokespersons and 2 youth coordinators to manage the overall project. They can then choose the rest of their team. Please send us contact information for these individuals so that we can give them the best support possible.

2. Mail invitation packages (Letter of Invitation, Welcome to the Gurdwara, and the directions) to local places of worship (churches, mosques, synagogues, etc) as well as local community leaders, law enforcement, etc. Please see suggested list of organizations. Several prominent community leaders should be chosen as soon as possible to give 3-4 minute speeches (see program).

3. If the Gurdwara is in a residential community, it is suggested that invitations also be given to those living in the immediate vicinity. This way our neighbors will have an understanding of what takes place in our Gurdwaras, rather than just the perception of a noisy, crowded disruption to the neighborhood.

4. Contact all local and regional newspapers to place the Advertisement.

5. Most newspapers have a section listing events at places of worship where this program could be posted. Each Gurdwara will have other ideas for dissemination of this information.

6. Communicate the plans for the program with the sangat via announcements over the next few weeks. This should be an effort of the entire community, not just a project of a few individuals.

7. Prepare guest folders to be given on arrival containing the Program Agenda, write-ups on Guru Nanak Dev ji, Sikhism, and Shabads with translations.

8. Have name badges ready for sevadars and guests, and clean headscarves ready for guests.

9. Assign an individual to take photographs of Guests and Sangat.

10. If possible, plan for a few small gifts for any guests who will address the sangat.

11. You may want to request that the Sevadars preparing the Langar for the event keep it less spicy than usual, with the western palate in mind.

Tasks on the day of the event:

Assign a group of individuals as a “Hospitality Committee”. These sevadars should set up a small table at the entrance of the Gurdwara, welcome guests, give them their folders and name badges, and escort guests in the process of leaving their shoes, covering their heads, and entering the Gurdwara. A few members should stay with them during the program.

The entire program should ideally be completed in one hour. Most Westerners are not used to religious services being any longer than that. After parshaad, the committee members should be available to escort the guests to the langar area, and explain its significance. Please encourage the sangat to mingle with the guests as much as possible, and make them feel welcome.

About Sikhism

Founded only 500 years ago by Guru Nanak (1469 - 1539) in India, Sikhism is one of the youngest world religions.  After a revelatory experience at the age of 37, Guru Nanak traveled extensively to spread his word.  His followers became known as Sikhs. (Sikh - means seeker of truth or disciple). His philosophy was centered on belief in one God, who is formless, omnipresent, and attainable through righteous living. He denounced discrimination against women and those of lower socioeconomic status, as well as ritualism.  Guru Nanak's nine successors crystallized his philosophy. (Guru is a term, used in reverence, for the Divine teacher in the Sikh Tradition).  During their own lifetimes, the founders of the faith compiled their sacred devotional compositions as part of the Sikh scriptures, known as the Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Granth Sahib not only contains the writings of the Sikh Gurus, but also those of spiritual men of other faiths, a feature unique amongst religious scriptures.  The message taught is that all faiths are to be treated with respect and can be paths to enlightenment.

The last living Guru, Guru Gobind Singh enjoined Sikhs to look for guidance from Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh Holy Scriptures. The tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708), also gave the Sikhs their current distinctive appearance.  They have unshorn hair, beards and turbans intended to make them easily recognizable as staunch defenders of the weak and oppressed. In its simplest form, Sikhism represents a spiritual path to God and a just social order for all.

Gurdwaras, or Sikh Houses of Worship, are found in many American cities.  All are welcome, and in the spirit of community, a meal is shared by all attending the congregation. 

With a population of over 25 million worldwide, and about 500,000 in America, Sikhs can be found in almost all countries of the world. In the last three hundred years, Sikhs have risen to positions of prominence in India, and are highly regarded as one of India's most hard working communities.  Although concentrated in northern India, they have settled across the globe, most notably in the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Australia, and North America.  The first Sikhs came to the United States and Canada over a hundred years ago.  They were involved in the construction of railroads in the Pacific North-West, and the Panama Canal in1904.  Today, Sikhs continue to make significant contributions to North American society as physicians, high-tech professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, cab drivers and convenience store workers.  They are amongst the most educated and prosperous groups of Americans.

Basic Understanding of Sikhism

1.Sikhism is the world's fifth largest religion.

2.Sikhs believes in one omnipresent, formless God - Waheguru, the source of all creation.  Union with God is achievable through meditation and prayer.

3.Sikhism enjoins people to be productive members of society. Asceticism is not advocated.

4."Sarbat da bhala" - Sikhs believe in equality amongst all human beings and pray daily for all humankind.

5. Sikhs regard men and women as equal in all spheres including religion.

6. Sikhs are expected to perform community service, and share with those less fortunate.

7. Sikhs are required to observe five articles of faith - Kesh (uncut hair), Kirpan (a ceremonial sword), Kara (an iron bracelet), Kanga (comb), and Kachha (breeches).

8. The vast majority of men wearing turbans in the United States are Sikhs.

You can learn more about Sikhs through:

http://www.sikhs.org

http://www.allaboutsikhs.com

http://www.sikhpoint.com

Welcome to the Gurdwara

Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru and the founder of the Sikh religion, established the first Gurdwara (Sikh House of Worship) in the early 1500’s in India. The Gurdwaras were founded as places where the sangat (Sikh religious congregation) could come together to worship as a community by reciting and reflecting upon the hymns contained in the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh scripture). People from all walks of life are welcome to attend or observe religious services in Gurdwaras. The Sikh religious service is centered on keertan, which is the singing of Sikh hymns, and ends with the sharing of a community meal.

Here are a few practical points to make you feel more comfortable during your visit:

1. Shoes are removed before entering the main prayer hall. Near the entrance to all Gurdwaras, there is an area to place your shoes.

2. Men and women cover their heads in the prayer hall. There are scarves available at the entrance, or you may bring your own.

3. Upon entering the prayer hall, members will bow down in front of the Guru Granth Sahib, or Sikh scriptures, as a symbol of respect. You can choose to do this, or take a seat, as you feel comfortable. You will observe most members of the congregation making a token offering. However, this is not mandatory.

4. In the prayer hall, the congregation is seated on the floor; therefore, women may find it more convenient to wear slacks

5. During the service, men and women tend to sit on opposite sides of the aisle. This is by convention only, and you may sit wherever you choose.

6. After the service, there is always a meal known as langar, or community kitchen. This meal is vegetarian so as to be acceptable to everyone. It is usually based on Indian cuisine.

Letter of Invitation

Dear :

The Sikh Community invites your participation in the program “Sharing Your Faith with Your Neighbors”, a special service being held at Gurdwaras (Sikh House of Worship) nationwide. We hope you will be able to join us to learn more about your Sikh neighbors, friends and colleagues, and enjoy the experience of a Sikh religious service, including the community meal, or langar, at the conclusion. The Sikh community hopes that this event will promote understanding, mutual respect and unity for local communities globallys. Several speakers from faith communities and local civic leaders will be present as well.

The program will be held on:

(Day, Month Date, 2003 from 12:30-3 pm)

At

(Name and address of local Gurdwara)

Please RSVP to (contact name and number).

Directions and additional information are enclosed.

We look forward to your visit.

Suggested Guest List

1. Neighbors and coworkers of the Sangat

2. Neighbors living in the vicinity of the Gurdwara

3. Teachers and principals from schools attended by Sikh children

4. Fire and Police Chiefs (City, State or County)

5. City Mayor or County Executive

6. City and State Delegates, Senators, Representatives

7. Heads of Local Interfaith Organizations and Chapters

8. Local Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Bahai, and other Clergy

9. County/City School Board Supervisor and Multi-Cultural Panel

10. Ethnic Community Representatives, e.g. Hispanic, Black, Chinese, Japanese, etc…

11. College Students/Faculty of a Religion/Diversity Program

12. Local Heroes, e.g. Writers/Reporters, Olympians, Disaster Survivors, Activists, etc…

13. Human Relations and Civil Rights Correspondent for the City/County/State Government

14. Any other entities with strong ties to the local Sikh community

15. Representatives of National Organizations – NAACP, Interfaith Alliance, National Conference on Community and Justice (NCCJ)

Note: The above-mentioned points are a suggested list for North American communities; other communities across the world may use their own guest list, as they seem appropriate.

Welcome and Introductory Remarks:

The entire Sikh congregation welcomes you to our Gurdwara. We are grateful to you for taking the time to come here today, and participating in this effort to get to know one another better.

The Sikh religion, was founded by Guru Nanak, in the Punjab region of India, about 500 years ago. His message was essentially that of tolerance and respect for people of all backgrounds and faiths. He in fact exemplified true interfaith acceptance at a time and place where this was not the convention. His companions on his travels were a Muslim and a Hindu. He did not attempt to convert the followers of other faiths, but rather urged them to explore the inner meanings of their own religious philosophies.

These various spiritual paths were likened to the different spokes of a wheel – all-leading to the same center, or fundamental truth. He was, therefore, opposed to the idea that Sikhs, or anyone else, could consider themselves spiritually superior to any other group. It follows that Sikhs do not attempt to convert adherents of other faiths. In fact, the Guru Granth Sahib, or holy scripture that you see us bowing down to as we enter, actually contains the writings of wise thinkers of other faiths, in addition to the writings of the Sikh Gurus. For us, these writings are the embodiment of spiritual wisdom.

As Sikhs the world over gather to celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak Dev ji, we strive in our own small way to emulate the teachings of our great Gurus, or spiritual teachers. Guru Nanak’s ground-breaking example of interfaith acceptance from 500 years ago is even more resoundingly pertinent today in a world fragmented by religious strife. He showed us that respect, and not just tolerance, for those of other faiths is the cornerstone of a democratic society. We believe in this possibility here in our nation. We thank you for joining us in that effort today.

Press Release

Contact Information:

Sikhs Reach Out to their Neighbors

Throughout the United States, Gurdwaras (Sikh House of Worship), are inviting members of their communities from all faiths to join them on November 2nd (or the date which you choose) for a special service. Guests will be able to learn more about their Sikh neighbors, friends and colleagues, enjoy the experience of a Sikh religious service, and partake of Langar (a community vegetarian meal).

This program is planned to coincide with celebrations of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion. Guru Nanak was born more than 500 years ago in northern India, and preached truthful living and mutual respect. His philosophy was centered on belief in one God, who is attainable through righteous living and sharing with those less fortunate. Sikhs have unshorn hair, beards and turbans intended to make them easily recognizable. The vast majority of men wearing turbans in the United States are in fact Sikhs.

Sikhism is the world’s fifth largest religion, with a population of over 25 million worldwide, and about 500,000 in North America. Sikhs can be found in almost all countries of the world, most notably in the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Australia, and North America. The first Sikhs came to the United States and Canada over a hundred years ago, and were involved in the construction of railroads in the Pacific North-West. Today, Sikhs continue to make significant contributions to American society in many walks of life.

Since September 11, 2001, members of all communities have reached out to learn more about each other. In spite of this, hate crimes were directed at those perceived to be linked to the terrorists. Sikhs, with their unshorn beards and turbans, suffered a disproportionate brunt of this backlash. Even children were not left untouched by this wave of prejudice. Sikh children were victimized by being taunted and bullied by their peers in schools, causing tremendous emotional and psychological stress to the children and their parents. Therefore in an effort to educate and come together in solidarity with their fellow Americans, the Sikh community invites all those interested to be a part of this program.

For More Information, Please call: Give the name of the contact from the gurdwara or the member of the task force.

The Sikh Council on Religion and Education (SCORE) is coordinating this nationwide campaign, 'Sharing Your Faith with Your Neighbors'. To Contact SCORE’s National Office, please call

(703) 626 – 6119 or (301) 529 0674

Points for Talking with the Media

The following points are suggestions to keep in mind, so that our message is clearly conveyed. Please try to stay focused on the message; otherwise it tends to get distorted in reporting.

· Stress the fact that we are peace loving and focus on God, family, and contribute in the local

community.

· Educate them about Sikhism – about our history, our heritage, and our identity.

· Emphasize that we have NOTHING in common with the terrorists, and that we condemn terrorism.

· Convey that Sikhism is an independent religion.

· If asked about personal instances, relate to them how you feel. If you have been verbally or physically assaulted, tell them about it. If you are fortunate and have been saved from it, say so in those terms. Point them to others who may not have been so lucky.

· By the same token, offer your gratitude to the media and the diverse American community who have supported the Sikhs during these times.

If you are not well informed about any issue that you are questioned on, or feel hesitant talking about it, ask someone else.

Talk on Guru Nanak

Guru Nanak – Founder of Sikhism

“Truth is high; still higher is truthful living”

- Guru Nanak

Founded only 500 years ago by Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539) in India, Sikhism is the youngest of the major world religions. Guru Nanak founded the Sikh religion after a revelatory experience at the age of about 37. He began to preach service, humility, truthful living and meditation upon God, which became the foundation of the Sikh philosophy. Traveling throughout India, Sri Lanka, Tibet, and parts of the Arab world, he discussed his revelation with people he met, and attracted followers of both the Hindu and Muslim faiths.

Guru Nanak’s Teachings

The three basic tenets of Guru Nanak’s teachings are (1) Naam Japo – Constant meditating upon God’s name, (2) Kirt Karo – Engaging in honest labor, and (3) Wand Chakko – Sharing of earnings out of love and compassion for others. The cornerstone of Guru Nanak’s teachings was equality. He believed that all are God’s children, and that His grace could be bestowed on the scholar as well as the unlettered, the high or the low, the rich or the poor. It would not depend on caste, knowledge or penance. Guru Nanak denounced the idea that spirituality was only for the male domain. He perceived that there could be no enduring democratic culture unless grounded in recognition of full gender equality. In a society deeply divided by religion and caste, and with widespread intolerance and exploitation, Guru Nanak instituted three practices to promote equality and alleviate suffering. Sangat was an invitation to people of all castes and backgrounds to meditate and pray together. Irrespective of their social background, people were asked to sit and eat together to create a sense of equality, called Pangat. He also started a tradition of free distribution of food to the rich and poor alike at the Gurdwaras, termed Langar. These three institutions remain cornerstones of Sikh society today, and are observed by Sikh communities throughout the world.

The Relevance of Guru Nanak’s Teachings in Modern Times

Interfaith dialogue and cooperation have been a part of Sikhism since Guru Nanak’s time. He did not attempt to convert the followers of other faiths, but rather urged them to rediscover the internal significance of their own beliefs and rituals, without forsaking their chosen paths. He indicated that because of human limitations, each group grasps only a narrow aspect of God’s revelation. The Sikh Gurus were opposed to any exclusive claim on spiritual truth. This indicates a pluralistic acceptance of the legitimacy of all faiths, and therefore, an acceptance of all groups and individuals. It follows that Sikhs do not attempt to convert adherents of other faiths.

In North America, Sikh congregations participate in interfaith associations and community activities regarding such issues as the environment, the welfare of children, and helping the homeless. Since the intrinsic spirit of Sikhism is pluralistic, it has much to contribute towards interfaith and inter-community relations. Sikhs are willing partners in the emergence of a world community that preserves the rights of human dignity and freedom for all human beings. In witness of this attitude and spirit, the Ardaas, recited at the end of a Sikh service ends with the words “May the whole world be blessed by your grace”

Proposed Program Schedule

Time

Event

12:30 –1:00

Welcome and Introduction (Guru Nanak and Sikhism Audiovisual)

1:00 – 1:30

Singing of Shabads (hymns) with English Translation

1:30 – 1:50

Comments by Guests (2-4 minutes each)

1:50 – 2:00

Closing Remarks by Organizers

2:10 – 2:15

Ardas (invocation), Hukamnama (edict) with English Translation

2:15 – 3:00

Distribution of Parshad (sweet pudding) and Langar (community meal)

Closing Remarks

As our service concludes, I would just like to take a few moments to thank all of our guests for joining us here this today, and explain some of the imagery and symbolism in our Gurdwara.

As you have learned, the Guru Granth Sahib, or Sikh scripture, is the embodiment of spiritual authority for us. As such, we bow down to it as the true word of God. The Palki, or canopy above the Guru Granth Sahib, signifies respect of its authority. This practice is derived from the traditional treatment of kings in India. Likewise, the Chaur, or flowing wisk, is waved over the Guru Granth Sahib to indicate its sovereignty. As you will have noted, the keertan, or singing of Sikh hymns, is traditionally accompanied by the harmonium, which is an accordion-like keyboard instrument, and the drums, which are called tablas. However, any instrument, can accompany keertan. The sweet pudding, or Parshaad, offered at the end of the service, is eaten as an acceptance of the sweetness of God’s word.

It is only by taking the time and effort to get to know one another that we can break the chain of ignorance leading to fear, fear leading to hate, and hate leading to violence. We hope that by attending this event, you will understand your Sikh friends, neighbors, and colleagues a bit better.

We sincerely thank you for joining us here today, and commend your contributions to strengthen our society and creating mutual respect.

Suggested Hymns To Be Sung During The Program

(You may use this translation to pass to the guests)

Hymn - 1, From Guru Granth Sahib(the Sikh Scriptures), Pg 728

This selection is composed by Guru Nanak. This hymn reflects the spirit of Sikhism. It emphasizes that one should not judge others being inferior or of any less value because of one’s caste, color, creed, religion and nationality. Since every one is created by One God, and that one Creator resides in every heart, no one is better or worse than any body else. One judges others due to inner ignorance about the Ultimate Reality.

Hum Nahi Changai Bura nahi Koe

antar vasai na baahar jaae

Deep within the self, the Lord abides; do not go outside looking for Him.

amrit shhodd kaahae bikh khaae

Ambrosial Nectar is the Lord within, leaving aside the Lord - why are you after worldly poison? aisaa giaan jupuhu man maerae

Contemplate on such spiritual wisdom (that Almightly is within you), O my mind,

hovoh chaakur saachae kaerae With that you will become the true servant of the Lord. giaan dhhiaan subh koee ruvai

Everyone speaks of knowledge and meditation;

badhhan baandhhiaa subh jug bhuvai

yet they are trapped in the illusions of the world and wander around in confusion.

saevaa kurae s chaakur hoe

By reflecting upon the Lord, one awakens himself/herself, becomes the true servant

of the Lord and the humanity.

jal thhal meheeal rav rehiaa soe

The Lord is pervading and permeating the water, the land, and the sky.

hum nehee chu(n)gae buraa nehee koe

Those who reflect on the true wisdom see that they are not superior and no one is inferior and low.

prunuvath naanuk thaarae soe

Prays Nanak, He alone saves us

Hymn - 2, From Guru Granth Sahib(the Sikh Scriptures), Pg 1168

This shabad (hymn) is written by Guru Nanak inspiring humans to be like a beneficent tree. The translation is given below:

Maaha maah Mumaaarkee

mwhw mwh mumwrKI ciVAw sdw bsMqu ]

maahaa maah mumaarkhee charhi-aa sadaa basant.

Blessed is the season of spring as it is a new beginning for the nature).

prPVu icq smwil soie sdw sdw goibMdu ]1]

parfarh chit samaal so-ay sadaa sadaa Gobind

(Similarly ) O my consciousness, begin to flower by contemplating the Lord of the Universe, forever and ever. Blossom forth, O my consciousness, contemplating the Lord of the Universe, forever and ever. ||1||

BoilAw haumY suriq ivswir ]

bholi-aa ha-umai surat visaar.

O ignorant one, eradicate your egotistical intellect.

haumY mwir bIcwir mn gux ivic guxu lY swir ]1] rhwau ]

ha-umai maar beechaar man gun vich gun lai saar.

Abandon your ego, and contemplate the Lord in your mind, gather in the virtues of the Sublime, Virtuous Lord.

krm pyfu swKw hrI Drmu Pulu Plu igAwnu ]

karam payd saakhaa haree Dharam ful fal gi-aan.

The life of the virtuous person is like a blossomed tree:

The good deeds are the trunk, remembrance of Lord’s Name the branches,

Living in harmony with everything are the flowers,

The spiritual wisdom, the fruit.

pq prwpiq Cwv GxI cUkw mn AiBmwnu ]2]

pat paraapat chhaav ghanee chookaa man abhimaan

God’s manifestation in your heart will be those dense leaves on this tree of life which will provide beneficent shade (to anyone coming close), false pride of the mind is eradicated.

AKI kudriq kMnI bwxI muiK AwKxu scu nwmu ]

akhee kudrat kannee banee mukh aakhan sach naam.

Such a person will see the nature as the manifestation of God, and hears God in every sound and utters the True Name of God with mouth.

piq kw Dnu pUrw hoAw lwgw shij iDAwnu ]3]

pat kaa Dhan pooraa ho-aa laagaa sahj Dhi-aan

That person attains the perfect wealth of honor, and effortlessly and blissfully that person is imbued with God.

mwhw ruqI Awvxw vyKhu krm kmwie ]

maahaa rutee aavnaa vaykhhu karam kamaa-ay. Practice such virtuous deeds and the Spring will surely blossom your life

nwnk hry n sUkhI ij gurmuiK rhy smwie ] naanak haray na sookhee je gurmukh rahay samaa-ay

O Nanak, such Godly oriented and true servants remain evergreen (like a tree) and they never wither,

Who remain merged in the Lord. They remain green forever

Founded in 1998, SCORE's mission is to present the Sikh perspective in public forums, interfaith discussions and throughout government agencies to promote community understanding and a just society for all. SCORE pursues harmony and mutual respect among different religious communities and people through interfaith dialogue and activities. SCORE is based in Washington, D.C. and has represented Sikhs on many national and international platforms

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