Creation of Anand Sahib

     Once there was a Sidh Yogi. He practiced many kinds of meditation his whole life. He would chant mantras, do fasts, practice many difficult yoga postures and read many teachings. He heard news for a long time about Guru Nanak and his teachings, and how Guru Amar Das held the throne of Nanak. He was always impressed with what he heard of the Guru and wished one day to see him. On the last day of his life he was able to receive the Guru's darshan. "I have done many spiritual practices but I have not obtained peace and joy. Bless me to be born in to your family, dear sacred Guru ji", he pleaded. The Guru blessed him, "You shall be born in my family. Bless you dear soul. You may go now." The old Yogi went to the river, made a final prayer and left his body. A short time later the Guru's daughter gave birth to a child. The child was the soul of the old Yogi. Now he was the grandson of Guru Amar Das. When the Guru heard news of the child, he said, "Bring me this baby now." When the baby arrived the Guru held him in his arms and cradled him. "He will be named Anand." Anand means bliss. His soul must have been in such bliss, being born in the Guru's family and living the answer to his prayers. Guru ji began to recite a new Shabd. He composed the entire Anand Sahib on the spot. Anand Sahib the song of celebration, the poem of bliss.