Prays Nanak, have mercy on me, and attach me to the hem of Your robe, O Lord. ||1||
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
In plain words
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.
A time of rejoicing has arrived, and I sing about the One.
I have heard of the One who never fades, and my heart fills up with excitement. When will I meet the One I love? By some great luck, may it be soon.
Day and night I stand ready to help, wondering how to draw close. Nanak prays: be kind to me, and hold me close to you.
When you have heard of something wonderful, the waiting fills up with excitement, not dread.
The deeper layer
Mangal saaj — the time and setting of joy. The abhinaasee var (the imperishable Beloved; var = groom) is the One. Kab milee-ai — when shall I meet — carries longing as warm anticipation, not lack. Larh laa-i-aa: attach me to the hem of your robe, that is, hold me close. Binvant Naanak: Nanak prays.
A Question to Sit With
What good thing are you looking forward to that makes even the waiting fun?
