Page 16 - Gurmat Book 7

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Lesson 6 Bhakhia Bhao Apar- Language of Love & Respect

‘The tongue can make you a king and the tongue can get you to the gallows’ is a

saying. What we say and how we say it, has huge implications in life.

In the fourth Paudi of JapuJi Sahib Guru Nanak Dev Ji says

swcw swihbu swcu nwie BwiKAw Bwau Apwru]

True is the Waheguru, True is the Name
Speak it with Language of infinite love and respect.

In raag Suhi, Guru Arjan Dev Ji says,
imT bolVw jI hir sjxy suAwmI morw]

hau sMmil QkI jI Ehu kdy n boly kaurw]

My Friend, My Master (Waheguru) speaks so sweetly.
I am weary of testing him, but still he never speaks harshly.

If Waheguru speaks so sweetly, we should also speak with language of love and
respect. Question is, “What is the language of love and respect?”

The language of love and respect can be different in different situations and

cultures. For a child growing up, the most important agents of Waheguru are the

parents, siblings and teachers. In Punjabi culture, it is customary to address
those older than you with “Ji” after their title. Like you may address your

grandmother as “Biji”, your mother as “Mummy Ji”, your father as “Papa Ji” or
“Daddy Ji”, your older brother as “Veer Ji” and your older sister as “Bhen Ji”.

These are examples of Bhakhia Bhao- the language of love.

The language of love is not just words; it is our actions too. What are some of our
actions that show love and respect?

1. Your family was given to you by Waheguru. Your parents may not be as rich

as your relatives. But they deserve to be respected, because no one will
care for you as much as they do.

2. You can show love and respect for your parents and siblings by giving them
a loving hug.

Stepping Stones PSL Gurmat Sikhia Book 7G 2023 Edition Page 14