Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
When we leave the One who gives us life and chase other things, we end up restless and in tears. We are never quite satisfied.
So with my hands pressed together, I, Nanak, ask for one gift only. Keep me close to You, strung like a bead on the necklace You wear, always near Your heart.
This is a request for a single gift: to be kept close.
Taj gopaal je aan laagay: those who leave Gopaal, the One who looks after the world, and cling to other things. They end up crying in many ways. Chasing lesser things leaves an ache.
Then the verse turns to a simple, hopeful request. Kar jor means palms pressed together, the way we ask humbly. Har rakha-o kanth parot: keep me strung around Your neck.
Think of a locket a grandmother always wears. She keeps it close because she treasures it, not to own it. That is the nearness Nanak asks for.
Who or what do you want to always keep close to your heart?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI