Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
The great beings of old stories, the seekers and sages of every kind, are all lifted the same way.
Whoever moves gently with the flow of life shines beautifully. Those who stubbornly push against it lose their way.
And the most beautiful thing anyone can do is simple, loving service to others.
A title does not make a life beautiful. Living in tune with the One, and serving others, does.
The verse names many honored figures from the old stories of India. There are Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Indra. There are Rishis (wise seers) and silent sages. There are wandering seekers, warriors, and sannyasis, who leave home behind. Guru Nanak names them all with respect. Then he puts everyone on the same level.
What matters is Hukam, the One's way, the order running through all of life. Maanai hukam sohai dar saachai: whoever accepts that way looks beautiful in the True Court. Those who stubbornly push against it lose their way.
The last line says the most. Sayvaa karnee saaree: service is the most excellent thing to do. Seva means selfless help, given with love. Think of a school team. The captain's badge matters less than the kid who stays late to help put the gear away. That is what shines.
What is a small act of service you could offer someone this week?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI