The metaphor of the elephant-mind has been frequently employed in Gurbani to describe the nature of the mind. In fact this is a traditional term for the inflated ego, which has been in use for a very long time. The earliest recorded use can be found in the Buddhist texts on the nature of mind.
I do not have any children of my own. So it is no surprise that I pour all of my mothering instincts into my garden.
Gurbani uses metaphors to explain mystical concepts. The usage of the word buneay is fascinating. Whether it alludes to a synthesis with the teachings or transformation into the essence of the Truth (Sat Swaroop), it is essentially the same message: imbibe the teaching so completely that there is no difference between the teacher (Gurbani) and the learner (Student, Sikh).
Jews have been phenomenally successful in the world. Starting as a nation without borders over 2000 years ago, they have transformed themselves and the world around them, while creating a homeland. They have paid a heavy price along the way.
On the other hand, we all regularly participate in a system that protects a select few, and we all play roles that contribute to the denigration of others.
Motherhood is not an accident of biology. Somebody has sex with somebody. Somebody gets pregnant. And look – there is life! Birth is the beginning of a very long process. A child needs values. A child needs love. A child needs time and attention.
For those tuning into the news in the United States last week, a Senator in the Texas Legislature launched a 13 hour filibuster blocking the passage of a drastic anti-abortion bill.
Sikhpoint, a newly revamped website focusing on Sikh lifestyle was launched on June 14, 2013. Sikhs across the world are familiar with Sikhpoint calendars that celebrate Sikh art and history, and over the years have become collector's items.
If the great contribution of Khalsa towards the independence of the people of the Indian subcontinent is to be made known to the Indian people and the world, then the true story of Rawalsar must be memorialised and told.
Over ten official 1984 Inquiry Commissions have done their work under pressure but were unable to identify more than a handful of low level guilty people, even though the government admits to the killing of over 2,700 Sikh men, women and children in Delhi alone. Many credible witnesses, of course, put the numbers much higher.