Savaiye in Praise of Guru Nanak, Verse 1 — before the song, a bow to the One
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
There is only One. And the One is found by the True Guru's grace — a gift that is always here, waiting for an open heart.
With one whole mind, I meditate on the First Being, the Giver of blessings.
The One is the helper and support of the saints, known and shining forever.
I take the One's feet and keep them in my heart.
Then I sing the praises of the highest Guru, Guru Nanak.
Praise of the Guru begins with a bow to the One. It is like pausing to say thank you before you open a gift.
Ik man purakh Dhi-aa-ay bardaataa: keep the First Being in mind with one whole mind. The One is the bardaataa, the Giver of blessings, and the support of the saints.
Taas charan lay ridai basaava-o means "I take those feet and keep them in my heart." Holding someone's feet is an old picture of humility. Only after this bow does the song of Guru Nanak begin.
In these poems the Guru never takes the place of the One. The Guru is like a clear window. Through it you see the light of the One, and that light is passed from Guru to Guru.
What helps you get quiet inside before something important?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI