n this article, we will delve into Saakhi #21 of the Sikha Di Bhagat Maala series, where we will explore a profound teaching from Guru Angad Dev Ji, shared through the story of Bhai Jagga Ji. It addresses the common belief that true spirituality requires renouncing family, work, and worldly responsibilities. Through insightful examples, Guru Sahib emphasizes that one can achieve spiritual growth while living a balanced, responsible life. The message highlights the importance of maintaining devotion to Vaheguru while fulfilling everyday duties.

‍

Bhai Jagga Ji

‍

ਜਗਾ ਧਰਣੀ ਜਾਣੀਐ ਸੰਸਾਰੂ ਨਾਲੇ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੀ।

Jagga and Dharani subcaste and Sansaru was one with the formless One.

‍

Bhai Jagga Ji’s humble request to Guru Angad Dev Ji

‍

He expressed his desire to renounce his family, business, and worldly life to dedicate himself solely to spiritual practice. Bhai Jagga Ji had encountered a yogi who claimed that true spiritual growth was only possible by giving up one’s household and all worldly ties. The yogi insisted that Bhai Jagga Ji must abandon everything to become his disciple and gain spiritual wisdom.

‍

Guru Angad Dev Ji’s response 

“If spiritual liberation is attained by leaving behind one’s family and worldly duties, why are so many yogis and sadhus, who have already renounced everything, still fighting amongst themselves? Why haven’t they achieved liberation yet?”

To illustrate this point, Guru Sahib used the example of a lotus flower. Despite growing in a muddy lake, the lotus blooms beautifully because its focus remains on the sun. The flower thrives in its surroundings without being disturbed by the dirt or the creatures around it. In the same way, Guru Sahib taught that a GurSikh should live in the world, fulfilling family duties and earning an honest living, while maintaining constant focus on Vaheguru.

Guru Angad Dev Ji emphasized that forsaking all responsibilities to do Bhagti (devotion) while depending on others for food and necessities reduces the spiritual rewards. The person relying on charity shares their spiritual gains with those who provide for them. However, one who balances family life, work, and devotion achieves full spiritual rewards.

Another teaching from Guru Sahib

Guru Sahib explained that in the past, Sikhs were well-versed in Gurmukhi and could independently read Gurbani, perform their own Sehaj Paath or Akhand Paath. Unfortunately, many have now distanced themselves from these practices. Today, families often rely on Giani Jis to perform Sehaj Paath or Akhand Paath on their behalf. While this isn’t wrong, Guru Sahib reminds us that those who actually sit and listen to the entire Paath gain the most spiritual benefit. If someone cannot attend the entire Paath, they can find time by discussing with the Giani Ji - even for an hour after work, to sit and listen attentively to connect to Gurbani and gain the spiritual blessings.

Remembrance of Vaheguru

ਹਾਥ ਪਾਉ ਕਰਿ ਕਾਮੁ ਸਭੁ ਚੀਤੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨ ਨਾਲਿ ॥

With your hands and feet, do all your work, but let your consciousness remain with the Immaculate Lord.

ਨਾਮਾ ਕਹੈ ਤਿਲੋਚਨਾ ਮੁਖ ਤੇ ਰਾਮੁ ਸੰਮ੍ਹਾਲਿ ॥

Naam Dayv answers, O Trilochan, chant the Lord's Name with your mouth.

‍

Guru Sahib explains that whilst you’re working, taking care of your family, living a householder's life, keep your mind focused on Vaheguru. In this age of Kaljug, even a small effort in Bhagti can yield immense spiritual gain if done with sincerity and dedication.

Guru Angad Dev Ji’s teaching emphasizes that true spirituality does not require abandoning one’s family or responsibilities. Instead, by living a balanced life, a person can achieve greater spiritual rewards. This approach encourages maintaining constant remembrance of the Divine while fulfilling worldly duties, proving that devotion and daily life can coexist harmoniously.

‍