Top 10 Quotes of Guru Amar Das Ji

Top 10 Quotes of Guru Amar Das Ji and Their Significance

Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, played a crucial role in shaping Sikhism by promoting equality, humility, and devotion. His teachings emphasized the importance of selfless service, meditation on God’s name, and the rejection of social discrimination. Here are ten profound quotes of Guru Amar Das Ji along with their significance:

1. “He Himself unites in His Union, and He Himself separates. No one else can unite them again.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 573)

This quote emphasizes the supreme power of Waheguru (God) in determining the fate of individuals. It teaches that human efforts alone cannot dictate outcomes, and one must surrender to the divine will.

2. “All the world continues coming and going in reincarnation. They do not find the Door of Liberation.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 29)

Guru Amar Das Ji explains the concept of the cycle of birth and death. According to Sikhism, liberation (Mukti) can only be attained through true devotion and by living a righteous life as guided by the Guru.

3. “The fools try to account for the beginning and the end, but only the Lord knows His own state and extent.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 795)

This quote highlights the limitations of human intellect in understanding the infinite nature of God. It reminds us that true wisdom lies in humility and surrendering to divine knowledge rather than questioning the incomprehensible.

4. “They alone are good, who love the Lord. These friends are united with Him.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 516)

Guru Amar Das Ji stresses that true goodness is measured by one’s love for God. He indicates that spiritual companionship and unity with Waheguru define the essence of a meaningful life.

5. “The Name of the Lord alone is my Support; I live by meditating on His Name.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 1136)

Here, Guru Amar Das Ji reinforces the central Sikh belief that meditating on God’s name (Naam Simran) is the ultimate way to attain inner peace, spiritual fulfillment, and liberation.

6. “Pilgrimages, fasting, daily rituals, and all sorts of austere self-discipline – these are of no use at all.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 1133)

This statement challenges ritualistic practices that were prevalent during his time. Instead, Guru Amar Das Ji advocates devotion, righteousness, and true service to humanity as the path to God.

7. “Serving the True Guru, one finds peace. The pains of birth and death are taken away.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 1076)

This quote emphasizes the importance of the Guru’s guidance in achieving salvation. Following the Guru’s teachings leads to inner peace and freedom from the cycle of rebirth.

8. “Those who have the Treasure of the Lord’s Name deep within, their faces are radiant in the Court of the Lord.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 651)

Guru Amar Das Ji highlights the power of God’s name in bringing eternal joy and enlightenment. The ones who sincerely embrace His Name shine with divine grace.

9. “The True Guru is the Pool of Ambrosial Nectar; bathing in it, the filth of sins is washed away.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 753)

This metaphor illustrates the purifying effect of the Guru’s teachings. Just as water cleanses physical impurities, the wisdom of the Guru washes away spiritual ignorance and sins.

10. “One who calls himself a Sikh of the Guru, the True Guru, shall rise in the early morning hours and meditate on the Lord’s Name.”

(Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 305)

This quote lays down the discipline for a true Sikh, emphasizing early morning meditation (Amrit Vela) as a crucial practice in the spiritual journey.

The Significance of Guru Amar Das Ji’s Teachings

Guru Amar Das Ji’s teachings were revolutionary. He actively opposed caste discrimination, championed gender equality, and introduced new religious practices that remain fundamental in Sikhism. Some key contributions include:

• Langar System (Community Kitchen): He institutionalized the practice of langar, where people from all backgrounds sat together as equals to share a meal.
• Rejection of Superstitions: He discouraged idol worship, pilgrimages, and other ritualistic practices, emphasizing devotion to God.
• Women Empowerment: He advocated for women’s rights, condemning practices like Sati (widow-burning) and Purdah (veiling system).
• Encouragement of Naam Simran: He reinforced the importance of remembering and meditating on God’s name as the primary path to liberation.

Conclusion

The wisdom of Guru Amar Das Ji continues to inspire generations. His quotes reflect profound spiritual insights that guide seekers on the path of righteousness, equality, and devotion. By embracing his teachings, one can cultivate a life of peace, service, and divine connection.

References

1. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 29, 305, 516, 573, 651, 753, 795, 1076, 1133, 1136
2. Surjit Singh Gandhi, History of Sikh Gurus: Retrospect and Prospect, Atlantic Publishers, 2007.
3. Harbans Singh, The Encyclopedia of Sikhism, Punjabi University, Patiala, 1998.
4. Pashaura Singh, The Guru Granth Sahib: Canon, Meaning, and Authority, Oxford University Press, 2000.
5. Ganda Singh, Life of Guru Amar Das Ji, Singh Brothers, Amritsar, 1996.

By studying these timeless words, one can align their life with divine wisdom and attain spiritual fulfillment.