the mool mantra

The Mool Mantra

Meditation at the Golden Temple

Mohan K. Sood, Ph.D.

The Mool Mantra ©Mohan K. Sood, Ph.D.

Also By Mohan K. Sood

Values, Aspirations, and Fulfillment: Lessons from Grandma Daadi, 2010

(Available at amazon.com)

Spiritual Living: Eastern Wisdom for Today, 2010

(Available at amazon.com)

Five Points of Value for a Fulfilling Life


Copyright © by Mohan K. Sood

Prepared for: spiritualwisdomfortoday.com


CONTENTS

PREFACE

SECTION ONE INTRODUCTION

8 -16

GURU TRADITION OF THE

SIKHS

8

SECTION TWO SEED OF SPIRITUALITY

17 - 29

THE MOOL MANTRA 17

SPIRITUAL MEANING OF THE

MANTRA

21

DIVINE REMEMBRANCE

THE SIMRAN

30

SECTION THREE SELF-AWAKENING

34 -35

SPIRITUAL CONTENTMENT 34

About the Author 36


Dedicated with immense humility to the Gurus

of India for their Spiritual Wisdom, Devotion, and Universality


PREFACE

The Mool Mantra is the very first insertion in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scriptures of

the Sikhs. It is the seed that encapsulates the infiniteness and perfection of God in words of

purity, philosophy, spirituality and glory.

The Mool Mantra is a necklace of ten words that shine like pearls of brilliance, spiritual

wisdom, and divine magnificence. The meaning of each of the ten words of the mantra is

presented for easy understanding and to achieve balance in the vicissitudes of life. They are the

keys to personal spiritual space with harmony of body and mind, work and devotion, health and

happiness, duty and responsibility, and success and satisfaction. Begin each day with its chant

for a spirited life to meet the challenges and opportunities that present themselves. It should

always be remembered that life of today builds the life of tomorrow.

I have spoken about the meaning of the Mool Mantra at various forums. The audience

response for a short book in English for easy understanding of the mantra so central to the Sikh

tradition prompted me to excerpt and expand the mantra chapter in my book “Spiritual Living:

Eastern Wisdom for Today” (2010) and the result is the present book. The focus is on its

relevance for the rushed life of today. We all deserve a respite. The three sections of the book are

presented as practical framework for experiencing fullness of life.

Section One introduces the „Guru Tradition of the Sikhs‟ and the meaning of being a Sikh

and the Sikh-Guru-God trinity.

Section Two „Seed of Spirituality‟ presents the essence of the ten words of the Mool

Mantra. Meditation (simran) on the mantra with absorption in its meaning is the certain path for

self-transformation and inspiration. You chart the life of tomorrow by channeling your intellect

for a truthful life in the world today. Positivity instills wisdom for a healthy, happy, ethical, and

meaningful life, everyday.


The concluding Section Three „Self-awakening‟ is to become aware of the layers that

wrap us. Simran helps to awaken us from the slumber of ignorance to the realization of spiritual

self. That is the divine grace for a contented and celebrated life.

The readers would benefit from rational adaptation of the underlying spirit of the mantra

for attaining meaningfulness in everyday living. The wisdom of the Gurus is the legacy for

humanity to appreciate and to understand the joy of spiritual fulfillment.

I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have enriched my spiritual life. My thanks are

also due to my family for their perseverance and to Dr. M. Singh for his valuable suggestions.

San Marcos – San Diego Mohan K. Sood, Ph.D.

California, USA

2011


SECTION ONE INTRODUCTION

THE GURU TRADITION OF THE SIKHS

The spiritual heritage of India is an unbroken continuity with the unshakable belief that we are

all children of God whose spirit lives within each of us. Her liberal and tolerant tradition and

faith in the universality of humanity were gravely impacted by the ruthless armed incursions

across her borders by aggressors from other lands and their subsequent control. India‟s spirit

was choked but not „silenced.‟ In the process, she rejuvenated and integrated to share her vision

of Divine and the experienced conviction that the reality of existence is both material and

spiritual.

Guru Nanak, in the tradition of loving devotion to God – Bhakti – appeared as the point

of spiritual light in the 15th

century Punjab, India. He was born into the Hindu Bedi family in

1469 AD in Talwandi, Panjab (now in Pakistan). His father was Mehta Kaliyan Das a revenue

collector and mother was Tripta. Both loved Nanak Rai, their son, a lot. He was their only male

child born many years after his sister Nanaki. Both children had a very loving relationship but

the sister also saw something unique in her brother – devotional love that poured out of him.

In 1485 AD, at about sixteen years of age, he was married to Sulakhani Devi daughter of

Shri Mula. Nanak loved his wife and together they had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakshmi Chand,

who were born three years apart. He lived as a householder – a grahstha – dedicated to raising

his family with love and contentment. The new relationship brought the responsibility of finding

work to provide for the responsibilities of his married life. He was educated in both the Sanskrit

and the Persian languages to prepare him for the life of the spirit and the life of work. A job was

arranged for him with Daulat Khan Lodhi, the Governor of Sultanpur, who asked him to manage

his warehouse. He earned an honest living and spent his free time in devotional


singing/recitations that attracted the attention of people. Guru Nanak did not run away and

become an ascetic. He lived in the world discharging his duties and responsibilities yet apart

from it as he was unattached to the material temptations and possessions of the world.

From his early life, Guru Nanak had been deeply immersed in spiritual living. As per one

legend, he went for his usual morning bath in the river Kali Bain near the town. This was a

different morning. Guru Nanak dived into the river and disappeared. His friend Mardana thought

that Guru Nanak drowned and ran home crying. Rumors started to circulate and even included

suicide for blunders committed at his job. However, he swam to the other shore and into the

forest for uninterrupted meditation – the journey inward – for direct Divine union.

After a few days, he appeared in town to the surprise yet relief of everyone. He was no

longer the same person. He was transformed, spiritually illumined, and radiant. He had realized

the divine spirit. Nanak the person had become Nanak the Guru. The sentiments of reverence to

Guru Nanak are beautifully captured in the following words of a poet:

“Spiritual light shined through Guru Nanak. It dispersed the clouds of ignorance, and

illumined the world with divinity.” (Adapted from “satguru Nanak pragatya, mitti dhundh jag

chanan hoia”). In due course of time, he renounced his job and possessions and lived in

seclusion in the company of his friend Mardana.

The political environment in the 15th

century India was not conducive to be a Hindu. The

invaders became the rulers. They believed in God, but only their own. It was in conflict with the

open religious philosophy of the Indian people. Guru Nanak wanted to bridge the gap and build

peace between the communities. He was already a well respected person in whom people placed

a lot of trust. He made a very simple, yet immensely profound, public statement of universality

of humanity, “There is no Hindu and no Mussalman [Moslem]” [and, by extension, a Christian,

or a Jew or a Sikh or a Buddhist or a Jain]. Further, by implication, it meant that we are all

children of immortal bliss, different in appearances but with the unity in one Spirit and one

source. It was the renewal of the principal message of spiritual India. We must learn and

practice this undeniable truth for peaceful coexistence today.


Remarkably, Guru Nanak‟s devotion and love for humanity were vigorous and poured

out naturally in his singing of the spiritual message in the vernacular language for the benefit of

common people. The centerpiece of the Bhakti movement in northern India was its departure

from the use of Sanskrit for religious matters. It was an enormous move forward in the

mainstreaming of our spiritual heritage. Further, the conviction that music transcends all

boundaries heralded the era of devotional singing. Guru Nanak substituted the innovation of

spiritual singing for his discourses. It was his unique way of reaching and touching people.

Literally, he sang his spiritual message in the purity of his spiritual poems or songs (shabads).

The devotional singing – the kirtan -- has become the essential part of Sikh worship today. Right

listening and melody facilitate the words to penetrate deeply. When we listen with attention the

serene effect is not just for the instant but lasting. Those who learn to live their meaning are able

to sustain lasting inner calm.

People were enamored by the Guru‟s mystic tranquility and willingly became his

followers. In due course of time it evolved into the Sikh tradition – the disciples of the Guru

preparing to live the truthful life.

Here are brief glimpses of Guru Nanak‟s spiritual wisdom and philosophy:

“A person fulfills the meaning of his life who has realized the Divine within, says Nanak

the others have not truly lived.” (Adapted from: “so jiviya jis man vasya soi, Nanak awar

na jivai koi.” SGGS p.142)

“Awakend mind is endowed with spiritual treasures far superior to the values placed on

gems, jewels, and rubies. It has the infallible understanding that we have all originated

from the One who is the souce of it all. It is one very precious teaching of the Guru [the

enlightened one]. May I never forget that truth –. (Adapted from: “mat vich rattan

jawaahar manak jay ek gur kee sikh sunee. guraa ek daihi bujhaee sabhnana jiaa ka ek

daata so mai visar na jaai.” SGGS p. 2)


“The entire world continues to suffer, only those who seek support in Divine name, win

and cross over to the other shore. No other action is of any avail to attain happiness, so

says Nanak.” (Adapted from:“Nanak dukhiya sab sanasar, mannay nau soi jinni jay, auree karam na

lekhai laayay.” SGGS p. 954)

At the important event of his sacred thread ceremony ritual -- the traditional symbol of a

spiritual rebirth – the Guru remarked on the nature of the „true‟ thread:

“Let compassion be the cotton, contentment the strands, celibacy the knot and truth the

weave of the thread. O‟ Priest such a thread woven from morals will not wear out, or soil,

or burn in the cremation fire. People who live such a spiritual moral life are to be revered.

They carry forward the earned results beyond death, Says Nanak,” (Adapted from: “Daya

kapah, santokh soota, jat garhi, sat vat. . Eh janaeu jiyo ka, hoi na pande ghat. Na eh tootai, na mal lagai,

na eh jale jaayee. Dhan su manas Nanaka jo gali chale paaee. SGGS p. 471)”

Guru Nanak‟s comments are not just deep but very instructive and pragmatic. They are

not just comments on Hindu rituals but rituals in all traditions that are performed without

practicing their real meaning in life. They are equally applicable to the ritualistic traditions that

have crept into the Sikh religious life. Religion would serve humanity with values of tolerance,

acceptance, and respect for differences. In this regard, there is something vital to learn from

science, its focus is rational in its approach to know about the workings of nature.

There is tremendous depth in the spiritual poems or the shabads of Guru Nanak. They are

addressed to the nirguna Brahman who is beyond any limiting attributes. He is present and yet

transcendent, formless yet contains all forms, immortal yet resides in the mortal being and it is

where the opposites merge into the perfection of union. The songs are full of sincerity, peace,

universality, surrender and devotional inspiration. He presented them through metaphors,

similes, symbols, names and words familiar to the masses for spiritual solutions to everyday

situations in life. At personal level, Guru Nanak‟s love makes the Divine his Satguru – the Truth

incarnate as the Guru and the Sahib – the Master. Spiritual message of the masters of the soul

poems has continued to enrich India and now the world.


Guru Nanak was followed by nine Sikh Gurus [Guru Angad Dev (1504 -1552), Guru Amar Das

(1479 -1574), Guru Ram Das (1534 -1581), Guru Arjan Dev, (1563 -1606), Guru Har Gobind

(1595 -1644), Guru Har Rai (1630 -1661), Guru Har Krishan (1656 -1664), Guru Teg Bahadur

(1621-1675), and Guru Gobind Singh (1666 -1708)] who energized the tradition forward. The

spiritual light (the jyot) that shined in Guru Nanak became the illumination in each of the

successive Gurus just as one lit candle lights the flame of the other candles.

THE SIKH-GURU-GOD TRINITY

Guru Nanak initiated a new way of spiritual living free of ritual worship, social barriers, and

priestly controls. The followers became known as the Sikhs. The term Sikh (modified from

shishya meaning a disciple in Sanskrit) has a special status. A Sikh means a spiritual seeker,

who has prepared himself/herself to live a devotional life, has the will of self-surrender, the

perseverance, and deep longing to receive inner awakening from the Guru. The Guru is the

catalyst who accelerates the process of spiritualization and that energy flows through the

disciple. Books only help but the true Guru serves as the light in moments of spiritual darkness.

Such a Guru is the bridge in the Sikh- Guru-God trinity.

Spiritual masters have left the legacy of their experiences in words which take the form

of scriptures to gain spiritual knowledge that the One in whom all existence finds its unity is

God. That is the grandest principles of all. Spiritual truth is not created but is self-existent

independent of the books. It is like the scientific laws they continue to exist even if the books and

journals of science do not exist. The laws are universal. Therefore, we need to understand the

meaning of the symbols, metaphors, and the words to help dissolve doubts and infuse awakening

and clarity for our journey to spiritual destination.


(To face page 14)

Guru Ram Das

On

The Attributes of a Sikh

“Gur Satguru ka jo sikh akhayai so bhalke uthe har naam dhiyavai.

Udham karay bhalke parbhati isnaan karay amritsar naavai.

Updesh guru har har jap jaapai sab kilbikh paap dukh leh jaavai.

Phir charrhi divas gurbani gaavai bahndiyan uthdiyan har naam dhiyavai.

Jo saas giraas dhiyaiy mera har har so gursikhguru mann bhavai.

Jis nau dyal hovai mera swami tis gursikh Guru updesh sunavai.

Jan Guru Nanak dhoorrh mangai tis gursikh ki jo aap japai awrah naam

japavai.”

(SGGS p. 306)


Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru, exhorted us to rise to the traits of a true spiritual seeker,

a Sikh, captured in the following description (see the facing page for its transliteration):

“Anyone who would like to be known as the Sikh of a True Guru, must develop

the daily discipline to rise early (before the sunrise), bathe and freshen up, turn

the mind and the senses inward, and sit in divine remembrance (simran) in that

quiet period of the morning. It is like bathing in the pond of nectar or spiritual

bliss (amritsar). It is easier to meditate when the body and the mind are rested

and fresh.

Such a seeker contemplates on the meaning behind the words of the Guru‟s

teachings. Thus, the state of suffering (worry, tension, and hurt) does not touch

him. He gains inner strength, stays away from vices and wrongdoings, and is

absorbed in serenity.

As the day begins, peaceful awareness becomes a part of his being. It stays with

him even as he gets busy with the daily work and responsibilities. He is situated in

the depth of the Guru‟s words which guide all of his daily activities. Their

melody constantly plays in his inner consciousness.

It is such a Sikh of the Guru who earns the divine grace and truly lives Guru‟s

teachings for spiritual attainment.

Nanak reveres such Sikhs of the Guru who are situated in Divine remembrance

and help others on their spiritual path.” (SGGS p. 306)


Therefore, the Guru‟s Sikh is not limited by a particular form or by physical identity or

by an appearance or by a specific designation. Rather, the real identity of each of Sikh (and each

of us) is our spiritual self, or atman -- the truth within. That is constant in all of us. That truth

transcends all religious affiliations and physical boundaries. It is for us to build the character of

a true Sikh and be compassionate, universal, spiritual, and exalted. Those who practice Guru‟s

teachings and are engaged in the realization of the divine spirit within are the true Sikhs

irrespective of their physical appearances or other external markings.

Each person must make that effort for journey in that direction. The performance of ritual

worship may be a place to start for many but should not become the end in itself. Divine

remembrance should become a way of life for attaining spiritual fulfillment. That is the Sikh-

Guru-God trinity – the essence of spiritual living.

The Sri Guru Granth Sahib

The words of the Gurus (Gurbani) were compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth guru (1563-1606

AD), into the Sri Guru Granth Sahib (SGGS), the sacred scripture of the Sikhs in the Punjabi

language (linked to Sanskrit). [In reverence to the Gurus, the script for the Granth is also called

Gurmukhi – the words from the mouth of the Gurus]. It consists of 1,430 pages and contains the

writings of the six Gurus, plus the writings of the poet-saints of the Hindus, Muslims traditions,

and other less-privileged social classes who had previously none or very limited representation.

It was the affirmation of acceptance, respect, and tolerance of the diversity of faiths and the

images/traditions of the Divine they represent.

The hymns, only of the Gurus, are arranged in poetic musical ragas and have an ending in

the name of Nanak (initiated by Guru Angad, the second Guru) as an expression of special

reverence to the founder of the faith and perhaps also as the belief that the spiritual light of the

first guru shone as the light in the other gurus. The SGGS is fulfillment of the spiritual continuity

of India.


SECTION TWO SEED OF SPIRITUALITY

The Mool Mantra (Punjabi with its transliteration)

ੴ

॥

“Ek Onkaar,

Satnaam, Kartapurukh,

Nirbhao, Nirvair,

Akaalmoorat,

Ajoonee,

Saibhang,

Gurprasad,”


THE MOOL MANTRA

The Mool Mantra is the very first insertion in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. In this mantra, Guru

Nanak has most beautifully captured the darshana – the direct Divine experience – in his state of

deep meditation. Its recitation, with faith, is an awakening of our own divinity. Its slow silent

chant (jaap) with full grasp of the meaning of the words renders inner peace. It is the seed of

Sikh philosophy and spirituality whose potentiality is obtained in the fullness of the Sri Guru

Granth Sahib.

The Mool Mantra (on earlier page) is the seed that encapsulates the infiniteness and

perfection of God in words of purity, philosophy, spirituality and glory. Its essence sprouts in

Jap Ji Sahib -- the book of wisdom -- and the hymns (pauris) form the buds that blossom into

colorful and deep expressions of the matter of the spirit. The fragrance of spiritual flowers

penetrates the inner self and fills one with inspiration, wonder, awe, and enthusiasm to know and

experience the Truth. The full splendor of the blossoms is seen in the tree of knowledge -- Sri

Guru Granth Sahib. The words in its couplets and hymns are the leaves of interfaith synthesis,

shining with the brilliance of a universal message for inner peace. Therefore, know, understand,

and truthfully live the meaning behind the words to make your recitation (paath) of the words of

the Gurus (Gurbani) a continuous revelatory experience for spiritual attainment.

The branches of this tree are reaching out to everyone, reminding them through

meditative divine remembrance (simran), fellowship of seekers of truth (satsang), and devotional

singing (kirtan) of the Gurbani to stop the inner dialogue of thoughts, to achieve true silence, and

develop the faculty to really listen and understand the words of wisdom of the Sikh Gurus. Those

who learn the art of immersion in uninterrupted listening and possess a resolute mind, focus, and

attention are in the know and able to dissolve their miseries. They are no longer misguided by the

maya of desires and temptations. The process of devotion, worship, meditation and prayer is

aided by selfless service, spiritual knowledge, and self-surrender to the Divine. The grace (or

prasad) is in the realization of your spiritual potential. Sri Guru Granth Sahib is a spiritual jewel

whose brilliance continues to shine in India‟s spiritual space, and now the world. One may

receive certain benefits from being in the presence of the Granth (as one is comforted by the


shade of a tree) and participate in its recitation, but conscious remembrance/meditation (simran)

with devotion is certainly the real path.


SPIRITUAL MEANING OF THE MANTRA

The Mool Mantra is a necklace of ten pearls of immensely illuminating wisdom and

divine magnificence. Its faithful chant is the key to personal spiritual space. Grasp the meaning

of each word, intellectually accept that the goal of life is spiritual attainment, and prepare to live

a fulfilling life. The lotus flower, which grows in muddy water but is not soiled by it, is an

appropriate metaphor. It is a reminder to live a truthful and joyful life blossomed with spirituality

-- honest, pure, and free. Like the lotus flower, you will rise above miseries and attain peace.

The meaning of each of the ten words of the mantra is presented for achieving balance in

the vicissitudes of life.

Ek -- the One

Ek is not to be taken not only as a word but also as a numeral symbol that marks the beginning of

the mantra. Ek here means God, one without a second, who is the Existence Absolute -- unity,

completeness, and perfection. Ek is the string that holds the jewels of a necklace together. You

do not see the string but it certainly is present. Let us look at it in another way. You see the

waves in the ocean. They exist because of the ocean as such they have no existence of their own.

Similarly, the universe exists in the Divine just like the waves in the ocean. Therefore, what

appears in the domain of space and time is rooted in the One, and experiencing that unity should

be our goal.

Guru Nanak has given to humanity a very simple yet practical principle for life: There is

only one Truth, one God, and one Reality, which may be expressed by different names, forms,

symbols, and words that reflect the cultural and philosophical traditions of different times and

places. It is a supreme universal principle by which to live your life, as it will fill your life with

harmony. It is an uncomplicated “formula” to inculcate moral strength and a liberal outlook to

dissolve prejudices and promote peace. It is forward-looking and very relevant in the

contemporary cultural context of diversity. Our mind‟s window must stay open to tolerance,


acceptance, and respect of differences for resolving conflicts in an amicable manner. We must

never forget that there is only the One who sustains it all.

Onkaar (Aumkaar) -- The Continuous and Unbroken Sound Form of the Divine

How do you express the Ek – the One? It is the sound of Onkaar -- the synthesis of “aum,” the

sound symbol, and “kaar,” the continuity in form. Aum is not a word with limited meaning but

an indivisible sound that originates as “aa” in the throat, expands as the “oo” rolling forward, and

culminates in the sound “mm” in the closing of the lips. All coherent sounds form between the

throat and the lips. Therefore, Onkaar is the sound (naad) that is inherent in Existence. It is the

sound symbol that expresses the Divine.

Know that Onkaar is the sound of your being. It is the sound of your heartbeat. It is

always there. It is the “sound of silence” you hear when you have filtered the external noise and

stilled the noise of thoughts through meditation. Experience its resonance in you when you

slowly but consciously chant it as you sit in meditation. It is the sound of peace and serenity.

Therefore, meditate (simran) on Onkaar with full devotion, dedication, and trust. Focus your

mind and awaken your spirit in blissful absorption in the divine sound within. It keeps the stress

of daily routine and challenges at bay. It helps you synchronize your biological and mental

rhythms. It is your harmony in the play of life.

Satnaam -- The Eternal Truth

Our senses, as instruments, are continually engaged in activities and perception of changes, mind

analyzes the observations, and intellect interprets them to discern the cause(s) of the change(s).

Such is the basis of scientific approach that rationally explores the logical and factual truth of the

natural world. It forms the very core of the knowledge of science which has enhanced our

understanding of the universe. The knowledge we have gained is derived truth that is subject to

revision with new evidence.


Then there is the other truth that is not deduced. It is not dependent upon or defined by

external sources or named for a fact or an attribute. It is spiritual Truth, Existence itself. It just is

and is complete in itself. It is this truth that also illumines rational thought into enlightened

intuition. It is not related to objects. It can be experienced but cannot be described -- like the

feeling of love. When the mind and the heart are synchronized, then the truth that emerges is

total and eternal. It is Existence (“Isness”) and is independent of time, space, and change. It is

Satnaam, the divine principle that transcends both the cause and the meaning. It is the brilliance

of Ek Onkaar that shines in Satnaam – the Divine who is without a beginning and without an

end.

At a personal level, you are implored to practice truthfulness in all aspects of your life.

Be true to your family, friends, coworkers, elders, humanity and all of existence. You will find it

to be a transformative experience. Your energy is not expended in cover-ups or

misrepresentations or conflicts but becomes productive. Your words and actions communicate

your honesty. You live a moral life that strengthens your confidence, brings the best of you in

focus, and strongly motivates the feeling of fellowship and compassionate duty to others. You

express the truth in yourself for life. This is the mold of Satnaam for your personal life -- the

virtue that is bound to endure. The three words (sounds) “Ek Onkaar Satnaam” are the real gems

for discovering your true self. They form the name (naam) and the sound (shabad) for constant

Divine remembrance.

Kartapurukh -- Brings Forth All That Exists

Divine creative energy in the sound of Onkaar manifested the universe and thus began the

domains of time and space. Thus, the Divine is not separate from creation but actively involved

in its play, like a dancer fully engaged in the dance. The dancer and the dance cannot be

separated from the act of dance. Therefore, each and every part of the universe, variable in

magnitude but not in spirit, forms a fully ordered, connected, and balanced system without

distinctions. Both matter and spirit lie within and function within the constraints of such a cosmic

order. At the physical level, these constraints are the scientific formulations, laws, and principles

that so precisely explain the ordered behavior of the material world.


As humans, we do not create fundamentally new materials. We are thinkers, imaginative

designers, innovative engineers, and inspired builders of new shapes, forms, and materials

through ingenuity of utilization of what is already part of the existence. We are not originators

but applicators of our talent.

At the spiritual level, they are the universal spiritual principles (the hukum of the

Waheguru -- the Kartapurukh) as „threads‟ which hold the existence together in ordered balance.

It is in our enlightened intuition – the awakening to the realization of God (Waheguru or Divine

or the Self -- the Universal Pure Consciousness).

At the personal level, therefore, release yourself from the bondage of seeking credit as an

original creator or the doer; rather, see yourself as the imaginative applicator of the talent granted

by the Divine. It does not deny you of your potential for achievement and creativity but unloads

the burden of expectations or rewards from your shoulders. It lets you realize your inner peace.

Worries and stress begin to diminish. Ego is subdued, futile struggles stop, and your life becomes

a balanced flow.

You will feel recharged and work with full enthusiasm, effort, and energy in meeting

your duties, responsibilities, and obligations at all levels – family, society, and profession. You

will perform assigned roles in the play of the universe and will be resolute in playing them

extremely well. The path to the Divine is through life engaged in the world yet detached from it.

The gurus are excellent role models. They were fully engaged in life yet still apart from it. This

approach to life is accepting to live within the universal order that is pervasive throughout

existence.

Nirbhao – Above Fear

The mantra begins with “Ek,” one God and none other. Fear is always of “the other.” Ek is the

state above fear. It is full of support, courage, and kindness. There is no room for worry, anxiety,

or fear to dwell. He is the God beyond all gods, and any basis for fear is invalid.


At the personal level, fear arises out of the feeling that someone will breach your personal

security or the safety of your family or deprive you of your wealth or bring harm to you or cause

distress in your life or cause you irreparable injury or even death. When you place your trust in

the Divine, there is no room for fear to dwell. It is only the doubt, mistrust and non-acceptance of

divine existence that cause insecurity and anxiety. They breed anger and panic, thus leading to

loss of intellect and eventual devastation. Faith and confidence inspire the courage to resist any

fright.

Nirvair -- Above Enmity

Divine love and compassion are universal -- for everyone. It is everyone‟s right. God is devoid of

any enmity and is fully accepting, caring, and forgiving. There is no ill will, as there is no

enemy, as all is the Divine principle in action.

Living a life of no ill will requires you to build a strong ethical and moral life to expand

your capacity for care and friendship and to eradicate feelings of revenge and hurt. You rise

above hostile feelings, sow seeds of friendship, and stop antagonism before it sprouts. You vow

to fight injustice in whatever form it may take, thus assuring protection and security to others. It

is the heart that feels and it certainly wins. Selfishness, power, and greed are the principal causes

of enmity and distress. It is spiritual living that adds quality to life. Raise yourself to high ethical

standards. May you see a friend in everyone and all see a friend in you so that friendship and

good feelings endure!

Akaalmoorat -- Form that Transcends Time

Time is a forward movement like the flow of a river. It is said that you cannot step in the river in

the same place twice, as the water in that place has changed during that momentary lapse of time

(you cannot even step once, as the bottom layers are different from the top layers, the toe is at a

distance from the heel). Looking at it from another angle, change -- or time-- is also marked in

the birth-life-death, sunrise-day-night, and spring-summer-winter cycles of transitions. There is

nothing in the external world that remains changeless. However, there must be a force that is


unchangeable and beyond time and is the support of the sphere of time and space. The Divine or

the Waheguru is that eternal force free of all constraints. God is Akaalmoorat -- complete,

perfect, and beyond change

The major causes of miseries in life are the results of the happenings, memories, and

emotional experiences of yesterday (the past) and the desires, ambitions, and plans for tomorrow

(the future). Ironically, the past is gone, but your mind is able to extend the bad memories (such

as arguments, conflicts, feelings of arrogance, conceit, revenge) into the present and bring

distress. At the same time, your mind is also capable of projecting you from the present into

dreams (such as abundant wealth, bigger house, promotion, power, status)) of the future, which

is never here but keeps you anxiously anticipating. It is a strange, self-created entrapment that

keeps tossing you around. Yet your life keeps slipping away in the forward flow of time. You

must learn to make the best use of today, situate yourself in the present, work diligently, and let

the Akaalmoorat nurture peace and happiness in your life today and tomorrow. The contentment

and satisfaction then are continued each day of your life. Remember that the immortal atman

within is the continuity beyond time.

Ajoonee -- Never Born

The Divine being Akaalmoorat also means that He is never born and free of the cycle of birth-

death-rebirth. He is the only true Existence – constant, changeless, and perfect.

As you know, the physical body takes form through the union of two separate beings.

The bunch of atoms and molecules that take the human form becomes conscious life only when

the divine consciousness (atman) enters the body as part of the universal order. Therefore, you

are two in one: the physical body with the immortal atman the part of you that never changes.

Atman is the witness to all experiences of life and is as alive in old age as it is in childhood.

There is no aging of the inner self. Atman – the spiritual self -- is pervasive. Your life offers you

the opportunity and capacity to realize your spiritual self through meditation (simran) or

devotion (naam, jaap and kirtan). It is your own effort to achieve liberation from the cycle of

birth, death, and rebirth. You are not simply born to die.


Saibhang -- The Self-existent, Self-effulgent

The material world withers away with time. It is brought into manifestation, sustained, and

dissolved for a new cycle to begin. There have been many such cycles previous to the present.

The Self-existent and Self-effulgent principle is God. It is the Light of lights and is not

dependent on any external illumination. It is the Light that illumines it all. It is self-existent

energy that energizes the existence. It is formless yet gives form to all so that the order and the

energy are revealed the same in a mountain or a river and in fire or sun.

A moral and ethical life prepares you for simran, or meditation, to experience your

spiritual light that may lie covered under layers of forgetfulness, indulgence, greed, lust, and ego.

Your enlightenment will depend on the intensity of your commitment and devotion. As you

make progress, your thoughts become noble, speech acquires gentleness and acts are filled with

compassion and mind acquires the increased capacity for forgiveness, helpfulness, and

friendship. Distress disappears and happiness permeates your relationships. You become

illumined.

Gurprasad -- the Grace of the Guru

The Guru, who has realized the Divine and is one with him, bestows his grace on all. He lifts the

darkness due to ignorance and shines spiritual light for you to experience Truth and shed the fear

of death. Grace happens not by karma alone but through faithful contemplation (simran),

devotion, trust, service, pursuit of truthful fellowship (satsang) and living the teachings of the

Gurus (spiritual masters) and enables you to dissolve the miseries in your life.

Your foremost duty is to put all earnest effort into whatever you undertake to do but must

consider that your happiness, your achievement, and your peace is the grace of the Guru. Such a


realization is a means to overcome ego or self-identity that feeds false pride and arrogance.

Inculcate humility, sincerity and trust not only in words but in deeds. Look at your ego in the

face and discipline its passion for selfish indulgence. This will help promote an honest living and

prevent you from claiming credit for successes and blaming the failures on others. There is virtue

in gratitude, as it is Gurprasad, and it truly is. You receive the greatest gain -- peace and spiritual

fulfillment.

In summary, the life transforming essence of the Mool Mantra unfolds the ultimate unity of God

and existence.

The Divine (God) is One.

Is the continuous sound form – the Onkaar

Truth is His name; Manifests existence;

Is above fear and resentment;

Transcends time, birth and death;

And is the Self-effulgent brilliance.

That Awakening is the grace of the Guru.

Live the essence of the mantra (“Ek, Onkaar, Satnaam, Kartapurukh, Nirbhao, Nirvair,

Akaalmoorat, Ajoonee, Saibhang; Gurprasad.”) with inspiration to realize your wholeness.


DIVINE REMEMBRANCE

The Simran

Our daily experiences while awake are largely of our bodily needs. We are engaged in the

satisfaction of our senses (eat, drink etc.). We are hardly aware that our breath propels our

activities, work, and the sense of being alive. Breath is the life force. It helps us digest food,

circulate nutrients, and discharge the wastes. It modulates mental functions to process input of

information by our senses. Our intellect carries out the necessary analysis to reach decisions.

Each of us is wrapped in layers of body-mind-intellect. Our well integrated system that connects

our objective world and our subjective self is illumined by the light of our spiritual

consciousness – our innermost sanctum. Yet, very few venture to understand the mystery of it

all. Simran is an important means to experience your inner being.

In order to begin on this path, start nurturing trust and truthfulness, devotion and

dedication, regularity and consistency, patience and persistence, and cooperation and

commitment in daily life. These attributes purify mind, endow calmness, and decrease

restlessness. They should be supplemented with attention to personal health, reasoned faith, and

felt conviction – shraddha. Humility, earnestness, passion, and determination for self-discovery

support are the affirmations. Together, they constitute tremendous assets for success in simran

(meditation) and satisfaction. Only your efforts can give you life of peace and joy. Your proper

preparedness advances your potential for success. Simran is the best gift you can give yourself.

Simran on the Mool Mantra is an important first step in the right direction. Here are steps that

would be helpful on this journey.

Time: It is important to select and set aside a convenient but specific time for meditation

each day. It should be free of any other demands and not be rushed. Early morning (amrit vela) is

preferred and advisable as an excellent way to start the day. The body and mind are rested from

the night‟s sleep and are fresh.


Place: Find a quiet place. It should be free of noise/disturbances. There are no

distractions to inhibit quiet contemplation. Create the proper ambience for inspiration.

Sitting: One should wear loose clothing to minimize any physical discomfort that tight

clothes may cause during sitting on the floor or a chair or whatever is comfortable. Before you

start, you may freshen up. Drink water, as the system needs fluids after night‟s sleep. Be at ease.

Sit comfortably. Take a few deep breaths to harmonize your system and for the breath to flow

evenly.

The next step is to gently close your eyes, focus your mind on your center of spiritual

consciousness – the point between the eyebrows. Breathe normally.

Simran: Begin the Mool Mantra chant gently, melodiously, clearly, correctly, and with

full devotion. Do not rush it. Hear it.

The Mantra

Ek, Onkaar, Satnaam,

Kartapurukh, Nirbhao, Nirvair,

Akaalmoorat

Ajoonee, Saibhang;

Gurprasad

Each word is powerful. Connect with its essence. Each of the words connects you to your

inner self.

Its Meaning

The Divine (God) is One.

Is the continuous sound form – the Onkaar;

Truth is His name; Manifests existence;

Is above fear and resentment;

Transcends time, birth and death;

And is the Self-effulgent brilliance.

That Awakening is the grace of the Guru.


Absorb yourself in the mantra daily for a minimum of 20 minutes, both in the morning

and at night, if possible. It will feel like a long time but as you grow spiritually you may discover

that it is rather short. With constant practice you will progress to silent chant (jaap) absorbed in

its essence. It would still your mind. The ecstasy would fill your being.

Relax: Gently open your eyes.

Connect with your body and the surroundings.

Relax for some time before you start activities of the day

Let the state of calm soak in silently.

If you wish, play light classical/soft music. Have some fruit juice. Read inspiring works

or spiritual philosophy.

Beginning the Day: Next, it is time for morning exercise to keep your biological

container fully tuned and healthy. The allotted time for exercise should be long enough as per

your situation. Remember that this is your time, just for you, and make the most of it.

The body-mind-heart-spirit system is in sync and has good energy flow. And, you are

ready to start your day -- calm, positive, joyful, and considerate. Certainly, your day would be

productive. Your life would be centered in the present or the “now.”

Remember, when you are at peace you think better, perform better, progress better,

achieve success, and life is radiant. Obviously, the joy of the material world, the fruit of

knowledge, the open liberal attitude of universality, the sense of freedom and security, affable

relationships with people and spiritual attainment fulfill the purpose of life. The awareness of the

reality of the journey of life frees you from irrational attachments of the material world. You

have attained a perfect blend of all that life offers.

Life is an opportunity to arise and awaken to discover the spirituality of your being

before life passes. Simran is an essential personal gift. When you live the meaning of the

Mantra, you reduce worries, dissolve stresses, and ward off sufferings.


SECTION THREE

SELF-AWAKENING

SPIRITUAL CONTENTMENT

Life is constantly in forward motion. One must learn from the present to plan for the future, to

project from the lessons of the youth for the needs of the old age, to transition from the fullness

of old age to the peaceful preparation for the journey ahead, from the darkness of prejudice to the

light of openness, from the temptations of indulgence to the joy of simple living, from selfish

desires to an attitude of generous giving, and from the life of extremes to the life of balance.

People have the general attitude that spiritual immersion is the part which can wait till the

later mature (old) stage of life. It is a fallacy at best. As you advance in years your body and

faculties – senses, mind, and intellect are not the same as in the youth. The ingrained habits are

difficult to change. It becomes difficult to be spiritually focused. Truly, the process for self-

discovery, self-awakening, and self- transformation must start today for personal spiritual

fulfillment tomorrow. The process of change is usually slow but personal commitment delivers

steady progress and success. The earlier one starts the better it is.

The silent chant of the Mool Mantra with full absorption in its essence steadily begins to

open the very core of your being. Personal awakening happens and helps to integrate mind and

heart, thoughts and feelings, and words and deeds for a healthy life of peace and harmony.

Obviously, calmness of the mind and purity of the heart prevail to achieve success and happiness

in both the material and the spiritual spheres of life – one is not excluded from the other. This is

practical spiritual living. You strengthen friendships, extend love, and encourage openness.

Each morning dawns with its new freshness of its beauty, its joy, its promise, its music,

and its goodness held together with the invisible thread of love. This is the “holy temple”-- the


form of the Formless present all around you and in you. The entire existence is in obeisance and

inspired in grateful prayer.

Mind endowed with virtues, fruitful knowledge, dedication to duties, and divine

remembrance brims with truthfulness, compassion, and love. They are the true essentials of life

every day. Peace and joy fill you eternally. You feel blessed with divine grace – Gurprasad -- for

a contented and a celebrated life.


About the author

Mohan K. Sood grew up in Ropar-Chandigarh area of Punjab, India. After his graduation from

Panjab University he came to Canada and earned his Ph.D. degree from the University of

Western Ontario. Subsequently, he taught Earth Sciences at Northeastern Illinois University and

served as Dean of Graduate College. Dr. Sood transitioned to California in 2002 to follow his

personal passion for the spiritual wisdom of India.

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