Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
I came with empty hands — not knowing much, with nothing to boast about, no one important.
Nanak says: and still mercy came to me, and the One drew me close as their own.
Arrive with empty hands, and you are still welcomed.
Neech anaath ajaan mai, nirgun gunheen: I am lowly, with no one to lean on, not knowing much, with nothing good to show. This is about coming with empty hands. It is not about looking down on yourself.
Think of a guest who arrives with no gift and is still hugged at the door. That is the second line. Naanak ka-o kirpaa bha-ee: mercy came to Nanak, freely given. Daas apnaa keen: the One made him His own daas, His close servant. The shabad ends with being welcomed.
Have you ever been welcomed warmly even when you felt you had nothing to offer?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI