Essential Information for Naam Mantra (Initiation) Seekers

Identifying a Purna Guru (Complete Guru)

In Kalyug, the most challenging question for devotees is identifying a Complete Guru. The answer is straightforward: a Complete Guru is one who practices and guides bhakti according to the scriptures. This includes texts like the speeches of Kabir Sahib, Shri Nanak Sahib Ji, Sant Garibdas Ji Maharaj, Sant Dharmdas Ji Sahib, and the holy scriptures such as the Vedas, Gita, Puran, Quran, and the Bible. These scriptures form the foundation of the path of bhakti.

A saint who adheres to and teaches sadhna in line with these scriptures is a Complete Saint. Conversely, any guru or saint who instructs practices contrary to these scriptures is not only misleading but is considered a great enemy of the devotee community. Such a person is squandering the invaluable human life of their followers and will face severe consequences in the divine court, potentially being hung upside-down in deep hell.

For example, a teacher who teaches outside the syllabus is detrimental to the students.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7 Verse 15

Na, mam', dushkrtinH, moodaH, prpadhyante, naraadhmaH, Mayya, aphrtgyanaH, aasurm', bhavm', aashritaH ||15||

Translation: Those whose knowledge has been stolen away by Maya, such men who have demoniac nature, who are lowest among men, the evil-doers, fools, do not worship me i.e. they keep doing sadhna of the three gunas (Rajgun-Brahma, Satgun-Vishnu, Tamgun-Shiv).

Yajurved Chapter 40 Verse 10 (Translated by Sant Rampal Das)

AnyadevahuHsambhvadanyadahurasambhvaat', iti, shushrum, dheeranaM, ye, nastdwichchakshire ||10||

Translation: - About the God, normally say that He is formless i.e. who never takes birth. Others say that He is in form i.e. takes birth in the form of an incarnation. Those who, endowed with du rable i.e. complete knowledge, narrate properly, in this way they only properly i.e. in true way give His clear and distinct knowledge.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4 Verse 34

Tat', viddhi, prnipaaten, pariprshnen, sevya, Updekshyanti, te, gyanm', gyaninH, tattavdarshinH ||34||

Translation: Understand it. By properly prostrating before those saints who know the true knowledge and solution of the Supreme God, by serving them, and by giving up deceit, asking questions with simplicity, they, who know the Supreme God in essence i.e. knowledgeable Mahatmas, will instruct you in that Tatvgyan/True spiritual knowledge.

Consumption of Intoxicating Substances - Prohibited:

All forms of intoxicants are strictly prohibited. This includes hukkah (smoking tobacco through water), alcohol, beer, tobacco, beedi, cigarettes, snuff, gutkha, meat, eggs, sulfa (a wad of tobacco smoked in chilam), opium, cannabis, and any other intoxicating substances. Not only should you avoid consuming them, but you should also refrain from bringing or giving them to others. Saint Garibdas Ji Maharaj condemns all these intoxicants in his sacred speech, stating that they are harmful.

Surapan madhya masahari, gaman karae bhogaen par naari | Sattar janm katat hain sheeshM, sakshi Sahib hai jagdeeshM ||
Par dwaara stri ka kholae, satar janm andha hovae dolae | Madira peeve kadva paani, sattar janm shwaan ke jaani || 

Garib, hukka hardam pivte, laal milaavaen dhoor | ismein sanshay hai nahin, janm pichhle soor ||1||
Garib, so naari jaari karae, sura paan sau baar | ek chilam hukka bharae, dubae kaali dhaar ||2|
Garib, soor gau kun khaat hai, bhakti bihune raad | bhaang tambaakhu kha gaye, so chaabat hain haad ||3||
Garib, bhang tambaakhu peev heen, sura paan sae het | gaust matti khaay kar, jangli bane pret ||4||
Garib, paan tambaakhu chaab heen, naas naak mein det | so to iraanae gaye, jyun bhadbhooje ka ret ||5||
Garib, bhang tambaakhu peev heen, gost gala kabaab | mor mrig koon bhakhat hain, denge kahaan jawaab ||6||

Going to Places of Pilgrimage - Prohibited:

Fasting and pilgrimages are not required. Avoid taking baths in the Ganga or any other sacred rivers, and do not visit religious places for bathing or worship. Visiting temples or pilgrimage sites with the belief that God resides there is unnecessary. God is omnipresent, existing in every particle, and not confined to any one place as if tied there by a priest. Such practices are against the scriptures.

Consider this: all places of pilgrimage, such as Jagannath Temple, Badrinath, Haridwar, Mecca-Medina, Amarnath, Vaishnodevi, Vrindavan, Mathura, Barsana, Ayodhya Ram Temple, Kashi Dham, Chhudani Dham, temples, mosques, gurdwaras, churches, and other sites associated with revered deities, are places where a saint once lived. These saints performed their spiritual practices there, gathered their wealth of worship, and then departed to their divine abodes. To preserve the memory of these saints, people built temples, mosques, gurdwaras, churches, and inns at these sites, serving as reminders of the saints' presence and their spiritual practices.

These religious places convey a message: just as these renowned saints practiced worship, so should we. We should seek out saints who follow and teach the same spiritual practices and then follow their guidance. However, over time, people began to worship these places themselves, which is contrary to the scriptures and ultimately futile.

These places are akin to a location where a sweet-maker once built an oven, made sweets like laddus and jalebis, enjoyed them with loved ones, and then left. Now, the sweet-maker and the sweets are gone, leaving only the oven behind. The oven can't teach us how to make sweets or satisfy our hunger. If someone invites you to see the oven, you might go and even walk around it seven times, but you won't get any sweets or learn the recipe. To get sweets and learn how to make them, you need to find a living sweet-maker who can provide and teach.

Similarly, instead of worshipping pilgrimage sites, seek out saints who practice and teach the worship of Supreme God Kabir according to the scriptures. Follow their guidance and don't act based on your own desires.

Samved Mantra 1400 Utarchik Chapter 12 Khand 3 Verse 5 (Translated by Sant Rampal Das)

Bhadra vastra samanyavasaano mahaan' kavirnivachnani shansan' | Aavachyasv chamvoH pooymano vichakshano jagrvirdevveetau ||5||

Translation: - Clever individuals, through their speeches, mislead people from the true path of worship of the Supreme God (Purna Brahm). Instead of offering the nectar of true devotion, they promote unworthy practices such as ghost-worship, ancestor-worship (Pitra-worship), performing shraadhs, worship of the three gunas (Rajgun-Brahma, Satgun-Vishnu, Tamgun-Shankar), worship of Brahm-Kaal, and rituals limited to temples, mosques, gurdwaras, churches, places of pilgrimage, and fasting.

The supreme-happiness-giving Purna Brahm, Great Kabir, takes on another body composed of light (tejpunj) similar to that of Satyalok. He appears in an ordinary attire (vastra), often referred to as 'chola' in saint language. Like when a saint departs, it is said that the Mahatma has left his chola. By living a simple life in the world for a few days, and through his hymns and verses, he imparts true knowledge. He raises awareness about the hidden actual true knowledge and worship of the Purna Parmatma (Supreme God).

Gita Adhyay no. 16 Shlok no. 23

YaH, shastrvidhim', utsrjya, vartte, kamkaratH, na, saH, Siddhim', avapnoti, na, sukham', na, paraam', gatim' ||23||

Translation: He who, abandoning the injunctions of the scriptures, acts according to his whimsical desires, neither attains siddhi1 , nor supreme state, nor happiness.

Gita Adhyay no. 6 Shlok no. 16

Na, ati, ashrnatH, tu, yogH, asti, na, ch, ekantm', AnshrnatH, na, ch, ati, swapnsheelasya, jagrtH, na, ev, ch, Arjun ||16||

Translation: Oh Arjun, this bhakti is neither successful of a person who eats too much, nor of a person who does not eat at all i.e. keep fasts, nor of a person who sleeps too much, and nor of a person who always keeps awake.

Poojain deii dhaam ko, sheesh halaavae jo | Garibdas saachi kahae, had kafir hai so ||
Kabir, ganga kaathae ghar karae, peevae nirmal neer | mukti nahin hari naam bin, Satguru kahain Kabir ||
Kabir, teerth kar-kar jag mua, udae paani nhaay | Ram hi naam na japa, Kaal ghasitey jaay ||
Garib, peetal hi ka thaal hai, peetal ka lota | jad moorat ko poojte, aavaega tota ||
Garib, peetal chamcha poojiye, jo thaal parosae | jad moorat kis kaam ki, mati raho bharosae ||
Kabir, parvat parvat main firya, karan apne Ram | Ram sarikhe jan mile, jin saare sab kaam ||

Pitra Worship Prohibited

The worship of Pitras, including rituals such as performing shraadhs, is strictly prohibited. In the Gita, Lord Krishna explicitly forbids these practices. As stated in Chapter 9, Verse 25:

Yanti, devvrtaH, devan', pitrn', yanti, pitrvrtaH, Bhootani, Yanti, bhootejyaH, yanti, madhyajinH, api, mam' ||25||

Those who worship gods go to gods, those who worship Pitras go to Pitras, those who worship ghosts go to ghosts. However, those who worship according to the scriptures are benefited solely by me.

Both Saint Garibdas Ji Maharaj and Kabir Sahib Ji Maharaj reinforce this prohibition. Saint Garibdas Ji Maharaj states:

"Garib, bhoot ramae so bhoot hai, Dev ramae so Dev; Ram ramae so Ram ahi, suno sakal sur bhev."

Therefore, one should engage in the bhakti of Parmeshwar (Supreme God), who grants complete salvation. This Supreme Being is identified as Purna Brahm or SatPurush Sat Kabir, as corroborated in Gita Chapter 18, Verse 46.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18, Verse 46:

YatH, prvrttibhootanaM yen sarvmidM tatam' | Swakarmna tambhyachrya siddhiM vindati manavH ||46|

By performing one's natural duties and worshiping the Supreme God from whom all beings originate and pervade, one attains the highest spiritual success.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18, Verse 62:

Tamev sharnM gachchh sarvbhaven bharat | Tatprsadatparam shantiM sthanM prapyasi shashvatam' ||62|

O descendant of Bharat, Arjun! Take refuge in that Supreme God with all your heart. By His grace, you will attain supreme peace and the eternal supreme state.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 8, Verse 22:

PurushH, saH, parH, paarth, bhaktya, labhyaH, tu, ananyya, Yasya, antHsthani, bhootani, yen, sarvam', idam', tatam' ||22||

O Parth (Arjun), the Param Purush (Supreme God), under whom all living beings exist and from whom the universe has emerged, can be attained only through undivided devotion.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 15, Verses 1-4:

Verse 1: Oordhvmoolam', adhHshaakham', ashvttham', praahuH, avyyam', Chhandaasi, yasya, parnaani, yaH, tam', ved, saH, vedvit' ||1||

Translation: The tree with roots above and branches below, described as eternal and extensive, is symbolic of the world. One who understands this tree correctly is truly knowledgeable.

Verse 2: AdhH, ch, oordhvam', prsrtaH, tasya, shaakhaH, gunprvrddhaH, VishayprvaalaH, adhH, ch, moolani, anusanttani, karmanubandheeni, manushyaloke ||2||

Translation: The branches of this tree are spread both upwards and downwards, with three gunas (qualities) - Rajgun (Brahma), Satgun (Vishnu), Tamgun (Shiv) - driving the soul into actions and cycles of rebirth.

Verse 3: Na, roopam', asya, ih, tatha, uplabhyate, na, antH, na, ch, aadiH, na, ch, Samprtishtha, ashvattham', enam', suvirudmoolam', asangshastren, drden, chhitva ||3|| 

Translation: This creation has neither a beginning nor an end, and its form is imperceptible. One must cut through this tree of creation with the firm weapon of pure knowledge, focusing on the Supreme God.

Verse 4: TatH, padam', tat', parimargitvyam', yasmin', gataaH, na, nivartanti, bhooyH, Tam', ev, ch, aadhyam', purusham', prpadhye, yatH, prvrttiH, prsrta, puraani ||4||

Translation: One should seek that Supreme God, having attained whom one does not return to the cycle of life. This ancient creation extends from Him. I too am devoted to that original Supreme Person.

"Garib, Indra chada brij dubovan, bheega bheet na lev | Indra kadaai hot jagat mein, pooja kha gaye dev || Kabir, is sansaar ko, samjhaaoon kae baar | Poonchh jo pakdae bhed ki, utra chaahae paar ||"

This emphasizes focusing on the Supreme God, rather than on the worship of lesser deities or rituals.

Obeying Guru's Orders:

It is essential to follow the guidance of your Guru when performing any religious rites. Without Guruji's explicit permission, refrain from conducting any rituals at home. As Bandichhor (Liberator) eloquently states in his sacred teachings:

"Guru bin yagya hawan jo karhin, mithya jaave kabahu nahin falhin"

(Rituals performed without the Guru are fruitless and meaningless.)

"Kabir, guru bin maala ferte, guru bin dete daan |
Guru bin dono nishfal hain, poochho Ved Puraan"

(Without the Guru, chanting of rosaries and giving of alms are ineffective. The Vedas and Puranas affirm this truth.)

Worship of Mata Masaani - Prohibited:

Worshipping Mata Masaani (a mother goddess) or any memorial structures, such as those found in fields or destroyed sites, is strictly forbidden. This includes any graves of deities or other forms of worship. It is crucial not to engage in the worship of the three gunas (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiv). Instead, adhere strictly to the guidance of Guruji.

Gita Chapter 7 Verse 15:

"Na mam' dushkrtinH, moodaH, prpadhyante, naraadhmaH,
Mayya, aphrtgyanaH, aasurm', bhavm', aashritaH ||15||"

Translation: Those who are misguided by Maya, with demoniac traits, who are the lowest among men, evil-doers, and fools, do not worship me. They persist in the worship of the three gunas (Rajgun-Brahma, Satgun-Vishnu, Tamgun-Shiv).

Kabir's Teachings:

"Kabir, maai masaani shed sheetla, bhairav bhoot hanumant |
Parmatma unse door hai, jo inko poojant ||"

(Kabir says that worshipping deities like Mata Masaani, Sheetla, Bhairav, and Hanuman keeps you distant from the Supreme God.)

"Kabir, sau varsh to guru ki sewa, ek din aan upaasi |
vo apraadhi aatma, parae Kaal ki faansi ||"

(Kabir emphasizes that after serving the Guru for a hundred years if one engages in a single day of worship of any other god/goddess or deity; Those souls are committing a grave mistake and will face dire consequences in Kaal's abode.)

"Guru ko tajae bhajae jo aana | ta pasuva ko fokut gyaana ||"

(Ignoring the Guru and engaging in other forms of worship of any gods/goddess etc against the orders of the Guru can only be done by an ignorant)

Lord Kabir is Sankat Mochan (Liberator from Crisis):

In times of suffering or crises resulting from past deeds, it is imperative to avoid worshipping other deities or visiting astrologers. Instead, one should turn to Bandichhor God Kabir, who is known for liberating individuals from all forms of distress.

Samved Mantra no. 822 Utarchik Adhyay 3 Khand 5 Shlok 8 (Translated by Sant Rampal Das):

"ManeeshibhiH pavte poorvyaH kavirnrbhiyatH pari koshaaM asishyadat' |
Tritasya naam janayamadhu ksharannindrasya vaayuM sakhyay vardhayan' ||"

Translation: The Eternal Supreme God Kabir, by providing three mantras to a devoted soul who sincerely worships Him, purifies the individual and frees them from the cycle of birth and death. He also enriches the devotee's life with blessings, enhancing their spiritual well-being and granting true happiness.

Kabir's Teachings:

"Kabir, Devi Dev thaade bhaye, humko thaur bataau |
jo mujhko poojaen nahin, unko looto khaao ||"

(Kabir advises that worshipping other deities is futile. He emphasizes that those who do not worship Him will be left unfulfilled.)

"Kabir, Kaal jo peesae peesna, jora hai panihaar |
ye do asal majoor hain, Satguru ke darbaar ||"

(Kabir highlights that the true laborers are those who face the relentless hardships of time and those who serve in the realm of the Supreme Guru. These are the genuine workers in the divine court.)

Unnecessary Charity – Prohibited:

Refrain from giving any form of charity, such as money or unstitched cloth, to anyone. If someone asks for help, offer food or drink, like tea, milk, lassi, or water, but avoid giving anything else. This is because the recipient might misuse the money.

For example, a man once gave ₹100 to a beggar who claimed his children needed medical treatment. The beggar used the money to buy more alcohol, leading to domestic violence and ultimately, his family's tragic end. In such situations, it's better to directly assist by providing necessary services, like paying for medical treatment, rather than giving money.

Kabir's Teaching:

“Kabir, guru bin maala ferte, guru bin dete daan |
Guru bin dono nishfal hain, poochchho ved puraan ||”

(Without the guidance of a Guru, both chanting on beads and giving in charity are fruitless. This is confirmed by the Vedas and Puranas.)

Prohibited to Eat Food Remnants:

Avoid consuming food remnants from anyone who indulges in alcohol, meat, tobacco, eggs, beer, opium, cannabis, or similar substances.

Performance of Last Rites After Departure to Satyalok - Prohibited:

If a family member passes away, anyone can light the funeral pyre—be it a family member or someone else—while reciting Manglacharan. There's no need to collect ashes afterward, but if necessary, you may immerse them in flowing water while chanting Manglacharan. Avoid rituals like offering pind, terahmi, chhHmahi, barsodi, or shraadhs. No need to arrange a hawan by others. Instead, select a day for relatives to gather and express their condolences. On that day, perform the daily Nitya Niyam, light a lamp, and serve food.

If you wish to do something in the name of the deceased, seek permission from your Gurudev Ji to hold an Akhand Paath of Bandichhor Garibdas Ji Maharaj's sacred speech. If permission for Paath isn't granted, initiated devotees may light a continuous desi ghee lamp at home for four or seven days and recite the Brahm Gayatri mantra four times a day, dedicating three or one round of jaap to the departed soul. Continue with regular practices like lighting lamps, Aarti, and sumiran of naam daily, keeping in mind:

Kabir, saathi hamaare chale gaye, hum bhi chaalan haar | koye kaagaj mein baaki rah rahi, taate laag rahi vaar || Kabir, deh padi to kya hua, jhootha sabhi pateet | pakshi udya aakaash koon, chalta kar gaya beet ||

A Real Story Regarding the Futility of Karm Kaand

Sant Rampal Das Ji shares a compelling story about his revered Gurudev, Swami Ramdevanand Ji Maharaj, who became detached from worldly desires at the young age of 16 after attending a satsang by a Mahatma. One day, Swami Ramdevanand Ji went into a nearby forest, tore his clothes, and left them near the bones of a dead animal before following the Mahatma Ji.

When his family couldn't find him, they discovered his torn clothes near the bones and assumed that a wild animal had devoured him. They brought the clothes and bones home, performed the last rites, and continued with rituals like terahveen, chhHmahi, barsodi, and shraadhs, believing he was dead.

Many years later, when Swami Ramdevanand Ji returned home, his family was shocked to see him alive. They explained how they had mistakenly performed his last rites. Sant Rampal Das Ji then asked the wife of Swami Ramdevanand Ji's younger brother about what they did in his absence. She confessed that she had personally conducted nearly 70 shraadhs for him, believing that he was causing problems for the family because he had died unmarried.

Sant Rampal Das Ji pointed out that Swami Ramdevanand Ji, who was now a giver of happiness and spiritual guidance, had never caused any trouble. Despite witnessing the truth with their own eyes, the family found it difficult to abandon their old customs. This story illustrates the futility of practices like shraadhs and the worship of Pitras, showing that such rituals are baseless and unnecessary.

Prohibited Worship Practices on the Birth of a Child

According to spiritual teachings, it is prohibited to engage in any worship or rituals that go against the scriptures upon the birth of a child. Practices such as celebrating "chhati" (the sixth day after birth) should be avoided. The daily routines of worship, including bhakti, aarti, and lighting lamps, should not be interrupted due to the belief in "Sutak" (a period of ritual impurity).

A poignant story highlights the futility of such practices. A man, who had a child after ten years of marriage, celebrated the birth lavishly, inviting people from twenty-five villages, and spent a significant amount of money on festivities. Tragically, the child passed away a year later, leaving the family devastated and cursing their misfortune.

God Kabir reminds us that life is transient, like the falling of leaves in autumn. The happiness of a child's birth and the sorrow of death are part of life's cycle, much like the leaves that grow, turn yellow, and eventually fall from a tree.

Kabir tells us that -

Kabir, beta jaaya khushi hui, bahut bajaaye thaal aana jaana lag raha, jyon keedi ka naal || Kabir, patjhad aavat dekh kar, ban rovae man maahi | oonchi daali paat the, ab peele ho ho jaahin || Kabir, paat jhadanta yoon kahae, sun bhai taruvar raay | ab ke bichhude nahin mila, na jaane kahaan girenge jaay || Kabir, taruvar kehta paat se, suno paat ik baat | yahaan ki yaahe reeti hai, ek aavat ek jaat ||

Kabir's verses illustrate the inevitability of birth and death, urging us to understand the true nature of life rather than indulging in rituals that provide no lasting benefit.

Prohibited Pilgrimage for Child's Head Tonsure

It is advised against making a pilgrimage to a favored deity's site for the purpose of getting a child's head tonsured. Instead, when the child's hair has grown long enough, simply cut it at home and dispose of it without any ritualistic fuss.

An observation in a temple highlighted the futility of this practice. Devotees, in their reverence, came to have their child's head shaved, paying the barber three times the usual fee. After a symbolic snip, the parents offered the hair in the temple, believing it held spiritual significance. However, the priest merely collected the hair and discarded it at night in a distant, solitary place—revealing the ritual to be nothing more than a superficial act.

True devotion lies in the remembrance of God's name (naam) and not in these outward displays. Performing the tonsure at home in a simple, straightforward manner is more meaningful than participating in such elaborate, yet hollow, traditions.

Happiness from Initiation

Naam (initiation) should not be taken solely to remove sorrows but for the purpose of self-welfare. Through the practice of sumiran (continuous remembrance of God's name), all joys naturally follow.

As Kabir says,

Kabir, sumiran se sukh hot hai, sumiran se duHkh jaay | Kahaen Kabir sumiran kiye, Saain maahin samaay ||

"Sumiran brings happiness, sumiran removes sorrow. By practicing sumiran, one merges with the Divine."

Adultery is Prohibited

Adultery is a grievous sin and should be strictly avoided. One should regard other women as mother, daughter, or sister.

Garib, par dwaara stri ka kholae | sattar janm andha ho dolae ||” Surapaan Madhya maasahaari | gavan karein bhogain par naari || Sattar janm katat hain sheeshaM | saakshi Sahib hai jagdeeshaM || Par naari na parsiyo, mano vachan humaar | Bhavan chaturdash taas sir, triloki ka bhaar || Par naari na parsiyo, suno shabd saltant | Dharmrai ke khambh se, ardhmukhi latkant ||

As emphasized: "Those who indulge in adultery are destined to suffer blindness for seventy lifetimes. Consuming alcohol, meat, or engaging with another's wife brings severe consequences. Even the Lord is a witness to such acts. Do not touch another's wife, as doing so will lead to immense suffering across the three worlds."

Criticism and Listening to Criticism are Prohibited

Do not criticize your Guru, nor listen to criticism from others. If someone speaks ill of your Guru, avoid confrontation and understand that they are speaking out of ignorance.

Guru ki ninda sunae jo kaana | taako nishchay narak nidaana || Apne mukh ninda jo karheen |shukar shwaan garbh mein parheen ||

"Listening to criticism of the Guru leads to certain damnation. Speaking ill of the Guru results in a degraded rebirth."

Avoid criticizing anyone, even a common person.

God Kabir states that - Tinka kabahu na nindiye, jo paanv tale ho | Kabahu uth aakhin pade, peer ghaneri ho ||

God Kabir says: "Never criticize even a small straw beneath your feet, for if it rises to the eyes, it causes great pain."

The Importance of Visiting the Guru

Whenever you have the opportunity, attend satsang with humility, not to show off. Approach satsang as if you are seeking treatment for an illness. Just as a patient follows a doctor's instructions to heal, come to satsang with the same mindset to benefit from it.

In satsang, accept whatever seat is available and consider any food offered as prasaad, a blessing from God Kabir.

Kabir, sant Milan koon chaaliye, taj maaya abhimaan | jo-jo kadam aage rakhe, vo hi yagya samaan || Kabir, sant milan koon jaaiye, din mein kai-kai baar | aasoj ke meh jyon, ghanaa kare upkaar || Kabir, darshan saadhu ka, Parmatma aavae yaad | lekhe mein vohe ghadi, baaki ke din baad || Kabir, darshan saadu ka, mukh par basae suhaag | darsh unheen ko hot hain, jinke pooran bhaag ||

Kabir says:

"Go to meet the saints, shedding pride and attachment; every step forward is like a sacred offering."
"Visit saints frequently, as their company benefits like rain during drought."
"The sight of a saint brings thoughts of God; the time spent with them is priceless."
"The sight of a saint brings divine grace; only the fortunate receive such blessings."

The Grandeur of the Guru

When attending an Akhand Paath or spiritual discourse, or visiting Guruji, the first thing to do is to prostrate in reverence before Guruji. Afterward, you should bow respectfully before the Sat Granth Sahib and the pictures of revered figures like God Kabir, Saint Garibdas Ji, Swami Ramdevanand Ji, and Guru Ji. This gesture is meant to maintain devotion, not as an act of worship. Worship is reserved only for the living Guru and the naam mantra, which guide one to liberation.

Kabir, Guru Govind dou khade, kaake laagun pay | Balihaari Guru aapne, jin Govind diyo milaay || Kabir, Guru bade hain Govind se, man mein dekh vichaar | Hari sumre so rah gaye, guru bhaje hoy paar || Kabir, Hari ke roothtaan, Guru ki sharan mein jaay | Kabir Guru jae roothjaan, Hari nahin hot sahaay || Kabir, saat samundr ki masi karoon, lekhni karun baniraay | Dharti ka kaagaj karoon, to Guru gun likha na jaay ||

Kabir says:

"When both Guru and God are before me, whose feet should I touch first? I am forever indebted to my Guru, who has united me with God."
"The Guru is greater than God, as the Guru leads you to God."
"If God is displeased, seek refuge in the Guru. But if the Guru is displeased, even God cannot help."
"Even if I use the ink of the seven seas and the entire earth as paper, I still can't fully describe the Guru's greatness."

Prohibition of Meat Consumption

Eating eggs, meat, or killing any living being is strictly prohibited and considered a grave sin. Lord Kabir and Garibdas Ji Maharaj have conveyed the severity of such actions through the following teachings:

Kabir, jeev hane hinsa kare, prakat paap sir hoye | Nigam puni aise paap tein, bhist gaya nahin koye ||1|| Kabir, til bhar machhli khaayke, koti gau de daan | Kaashi karaunt le mare, to bhi narak nidaan ||2|| Kabir, bakri paati khaat hai, taaki kaadhi khaal | Jo bakri ko khaat hai, tinka kaun hawaal ||3|| Kabir, gala kaati kalma bhare, kiya kahae halaal | Sahib lekha maangsi, tab hosi kaun hawaal ||4|| Kabir, dinko roja rahat hain, raat hanat hain gay | Yeh khoon vah bandagi, kahun kyon khushi khudaay ||5|| Kabir, kabira teii peer hain, jo jaanae par peer | Jo par peer na jaani hai, so kaafir bepeer ||6|| Kabir, khoob khaana hai kheechdi, maanhi pari tuk laun | Maans paraaya khaaykae, gala kataavae kaun ||7|| Kabir, musalmaan maaraen karadso, hindu maaraen tarvaar | Kahae Kabir donu mili, jaehaen Yamke dwaar ||8|| Kabir, maans ahaari maanav, prtayaksh rakshas jaani | Taaki sangat mati karae, hoi bhakti mein haani ||9|| Kabir, maans khaay te ded sab, mad peevaen so neech | Kulki durmati par harae, Ram kahae so oonch ||10|| Kabir, maans machhliya khaat hain, surapaan se het | Te nar narkae jaahinge, mata pita samet ||11||

1. "Taking a life is a blatant sin. Even the scriptures confirm that those who commit such sins cannot enter heaven."
2. "Consuming even a small amount of fish outweighs the merit of donating a million cows. Even if you die in the holy city of Kashi, hell is your destination."
3. "A goat eats leaves and you strip off its skin. What fate awaits those who consume its flesh?"
4. "You kill in the name of ritual and call it 'halal.' The Lord will ask for an account; what defense will you have?"
5. "Fasting during the day and killing animals at night—how can you expect to please God with this contradiction?"
6. "True saints are those who feel the pain of others. Those who don't are like atheists, devoid of compassion."
7. "The simple meal of khichdi with a small piece of ghee is far superior. Those who eat the flesh of others—who will save them?"
8. "Muslims kill with knives, Hindus with swords. Kabir says both will face Yama's door."
9. "Those who consume meat are as visible as demons. Avoid their company, as it will harm your devotion."
10. "Meat-eaters are base, those who drink alcohol are low. Ram considers only those who shun these as noble."
11. "Meat and fish eaters, and those fond of alcohol, will go to hell, along with their parents."

Garib, jeev hinsa jo karte hain, ya aage kya paap | Kantak juni jihaan mein, sinh bhediya aur saanp || Jhote bakre murge taai, lekha sab hi let gusaain | Mrig mor maare mahmanta |achra char hain jeev ananta || Jihva swaad hite praana |neema naash gaya hum jaana || Teetar lava buteri chidiya |khooni maare bade agadiya || Adle badle lekhe lekha |samajh dekh sun gyaan viveka || Garib, shabd humaara maaniyo, aur sunte ho nar naari | Jeev daya bin kufar hai, chale jamaana haari ||

Garibdas Ji also emphasizes:

• "Those who commit violence against living beings will face consequences. They will suffer in lower forms of life, like thorns, snakes, and predatory animals."
• "Killing innocent creatures like goats, chickens, and deer accumulates sin. The craving for taste leads to the destruction of spiritual discipline."
• "Harming even small birds like quails and sparrows reflects a lack of compassion and will lead to severe punishment."
• "Follow our teachings, men and women alike, for without compassion for living beings, your faith is in vain."

However, unintentional harm to living beings is not considered sinful. Kabir Sahib says:

Ichchha kar maarae nahin, bin ichchha mar jaay | Kahain Kabir taas ka, paap nahin lagaay ||

"If harm is done without intent, it is not a sin. Kabir says such actions carry no blame."

Prohibition of Contact with a Traitor of the Guru

Associating with someone who has turned hostile towards their Guru is strictly prohibited and considered a serious sin. If a devotee no longer wishes to follow their Guru, they are free to choose another path, but if they turn against their former Guru or criticize them, they are deemed a traitor. Engaging in spiritual discussions with such a person is harmful and can lead to the loss of one's devotion.

Garib, guru drohi ki paed par, je pag aavae beer | chauraasi nishchay padae, Satguru kahaen Kabir || Kabir, jaan bujh saachi tajai, karae jhoothe se neh | jaaki sangat he prabhu, swapan mein bhi na deh ||

Kabir Sahib warns:

• "One who steps onto the path of a Guru's traitor is certain to fall into the cycle of 84 lakh (8.4 million) births."
• "If someone knowingly abandons the truth and aligns with falsehood, even the Lord will avoid them, not even appearing in their dreams."

In essence, contact with a traitor of the Guru leads to the destruction of one's devotion and a fall into the endless cycle of rebirths.

Prohibition of Gambling

One should never engage in gambling or playing cards. Such activities are condemned and lead to severe consequences. As Kabir warns:

Kabir, maans bhakhae aur mad piye, dhan vaishya so khaay | Jua kheli chori karae, ant samoola jaay ||

"Those who eat meat, drink alcohol, spend on immoral acts, gamble, or steal, ultimately face complete destruction."

Avoiding these vices is essential for a righteous life.

Singing and Dancing - Prohibited

Engaging in singing and dancing, especially to vulgar songs, is against the principles of devotion. For example, a widow once attended a relative's joyful event where everyone was dancing and singing. However, she sat quietly in a corner, absorbed in thoughts of God. When her relatives asked why she wasn’t joining in the merriment, she replied, "What should I celebrate? I had only one son, and he has passed away. What happiness is there for me now?" This reflects the transient nature of happiness in this world (lok of Kaal).

Guru Nanak Dev Ji's words remind us of life's uncertainty:

Na jaane Kaal ki kar daarae, kis vidhi dhal paasa ve | Jinhaade sir te maut khudagdi, unhaanu keda haansa ve || Saadh milein saadi shaadi (khushi) hondi, bichhad da dil giri (duHkh) ve | Akhde Nanak suno jihaana, mushkil haal fakiri ve ||

"We do not know what death has planned, nor how the game will unfold. How can those with death looming over them find joy?"

Similarly, God Kabir Ji says:

Kabir, jhoothe sukh ko sukh kahae, maan raha man mod | Sakal chabina Kaal ka, kuchh mukh mein kuchh god || Kabir, beta jaaya khushi hui, bahut bajaaye thaal | Aavan jaana lag raha, jyon keedi ka naal ||

"Calling false happiness as true, the mind remains deceived. All joy here is like food that Kaal consumes, some in hand, some yet to come."
"When a son is born, there’s celebration, but life’s comings and goings are like ants in a line."

Important:

Both men and women have the right to attain God. Women should not stop their daily worship, even during menstruation, nor should worship be halted due to a birth or death in the family.

Note:

A devotee who does not follow these twenty-one prescribed guidelines risks losing their initiation (naam/mantra). If a mistake is made unknowingly, it is forgiven. However, if done knowingly, the devotee loses the naam and must seek forgiveness from Gurudev Ji and undergo initiation again.

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