barublog“ਮੰਞ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਗੁਰੂ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਰ ਮੰਞ ਪਿਆਰਾ | ਮੰਞ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਾ ਬੋਹਥਾ ਜਗੁ ਲੰਘਣਹਾਰਾ |”
Bhai Manjh’s Journey of Faith
During the time of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, there lived a powerful and affluent Jat named Teeratha, who was a devoted follower and local leader of the Muslim sect of Sakhi Sarvar. Teeratha’s life took a spiritual turn when he encountered Guru Arjan Dev Ji while passing through Amritsar. The harmony in the Guru’s Darbar and the profound kirtan he heard left an indelible impression on his soul.
Feeling the thirst for divine Naam, Teeratha renounced his position, followers, and wealth to embrace Sikhi. Guru Arjan Dev Ji tested his resolve, warning him of the challenges ahead. Yet, Teeratha’s determination did not waver, and he was initiated into Sikhi, earning the name Bhai Manjh.
Spreading Sikhi in His Village
Bhai Manjh returned to his village to spread the teachings of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He demolished the Sakhi Sarvar shrine at his home and inspired many of his followers to embrace Sikhi. Together, they began constructing a Dharamshala, but the leaders of Sakhi Sarvar opposed his actions.
A series of misfortunes befell Bhai Manjh:
- All his cattle mysteriously died.
- Poverty overtook his household.
- His followers abandoned him, fearing the curses of Sakhi Sarvar.
Despite these hardships, Bhai Manjh’s faith in Guru Arjan Dev Ji remained unshaken.
Tests of Faith
Reduced to poverty, Bhai Manjh offered his home for rent and allowed his wife to work as a maid for the village head. This was a significant blow to his pride, but Bhai Manjh saw it as the Guru’s will and a test of his faith.
He eventually left for Amritsar with his daughter to serve in the Guru’s Darbar. Bhai Manjh performed seva with humility, fetching wood for the langar and serving the sangat.
One day, Guru Arjan Dev Ji questioned his motives, suggesting that his work was merely for sustenance. Bhai Manjh humbly accepted the Guru’s words and chose not to eat from the langar, instead selling extra wood to sustain himself and his daughter.
The Ultimate Test
While bringing wood during a fierce storm, Bhai Manjh fell into a well but kept the wood dry on his head for the langar. Sikhs rescued him, and Guru Arjan Dev Ji, upon seeing his unwavering dedication, blessed him:
“ਮੰਞ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਗੁਰੂ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਰ ਮੰਞ ਪਿਆਰਾ | ਮੰਞ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਾ ਬੋਹਥਾ ਜਗੁ ਲੰਘਣਹਾਰਾ |”
“Manjh is the beloved of the Guru, and the Guru is beloved of Manjh. Manjh is the Guru’s ferry that will help others cross the world ocean.”
Everything Restored
Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s blessings bore fruit. The village head, impressed by Bhai Manjh’s wife, made her his sister and returned their home. Bhai Manjh regained his status and wealth, which he used to open a Dharamshala and promote Sikhi. His langar became renowned, and many embraced the Guru’s path through his efforts.
When Guru Arjan Dev Ji visited the Doaba region in 1596, he personally praised Bhai Manjh’s dedication and contributions.
Lessons from Bhai Manjh’s Life
Bhai Manjh Ji’s story is a testament to the power of faith, humility, and perseverance. Despite losing everything, he remained steadfast in his devotion to Guru Arjan Dev Ji and emerged victorious. His legacy inspires countless Sikhs to embrace hardships with grace and unwavering trust in the Guru.
Share this story to inspire others with Bhai Manjh Ji’s unwavering faith and dedication to Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Sources: Sikh historical accounts.
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