Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
Some work wonders with the special powers of the Siddhas.
Some wear religious robes and set themselves up as leaders.
Some work spells and chant many magic words.
And I, with empty hands, serve the One.
Powers, robes and spells can draw a crowd. Something simpler sits beside them: serve the One.
Sidh baho chaytak — some show off wonder-working powers. Sidh are people said to have special spiritual powers. Bhaykh baho thaat — some wear special robes and set themselves up as leaders. Tant mant — some work spells and chant magic words.
These can look impressive, like a magic show that makes the crowd gasp.
Guru Arjan's answer is quiet: har har har sayvaa — I serve the One. Sayvaa, or seva, means helping and serving without wanting anything back. It is like the person who stays after the party to wash the dishes. Nobody claps, and it is exactly the right thing.
What good can you do that no one needs to see?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI