To many modern mainstream Sikhs, the exact contents
of Dasam Guru Durbar are a mystery. Indeed, the entire
text itself has been actively surpressed by the
S.G.P.C. and founders of various personality cults such as the A.K.J.
over many years who have attempted to remove or negate portions
of the text which does not appeal to their own narrow-minded puritanical
thinking. The text comprises:
Jaap Sahib A ballad of 199 verses that expounds the nature of the
Almighty and the facets of the Almighty's greatness. The term "Jaap"
itself translates to 'contemplate', and 'Sahib' refers to the Master,
ie. Contemplation of the Master (Almighty). The universal appeal
of this ballad makes it supreme in its expounding of the qualities
of the Almighty. The text itself is read as part of the Akali Nihang
Singh Khalsa daily recommended liturgy, and is also read at the
Amrit ceremony to initiate new Nihang Singhs into the ranks of the
Budha Dal.
Akali Nihang Guru Gobind Singh Ji
Author of the ballad Jaap Sahib and other Hymns found within the
sacred Dasam Guru Durbar compiled by Bhai Mani Singh at the request
of Mata Sahib Kaur
Akal Ustat This is the second ballad of Dasam Guru Durbar is composed
of 271 verses, and is largely devotional in nature. 'Akal' translates
to 'Immortal' and 'Ustat' translates to 'praise of'. The text describes
the many forms of the Almighty in nature, and how mankind perceives
this great entity. The inherently paradoxical nature of this ballad
makes it a favourite amongst the Akali Nihang Singh Khalsa. Many
paradoxical questions are asked (see here
for more details) and some answered. The ballad itself has been
left unfinished (as the praise of the Almighty can never end).
Bachittar Nattak This is the autobiographical work of Akali Nihang Guru
Gobind Singh ji that is 'the great drama', is described in great
depth over 471 verses. It describes 32 years of his life, and brief
episodes of other great warriors and battles. The paradoxical nature
of the Almighty, the emotions of a warrior, and the greatness of
truth is praised. Akali Nihang Guru Gobind Singh ji also describes
his lineage and his past lives, and why he came into being.
Luv and Khush
The beloved sons of Lord Raam (far left) to whom
Akali Nihang Guru Gobind Singh ji traces his family tree
Chandi Charitra (3 parts) The aim of these ballads (1st
one has 233 verses, the 2nd has 266 verses, the 3rd has 55 verses)
is to inspire warriors to stand up for truth and righteousness in
the face of tyranny and oppression. On a deeper level they deal
with the internal struggle to control basic animal instincts. All
3 ballads are extremely metaphorical and deeply narrative in nature,
and describe the battles of Durga (also known as Chandi, Bhawani,
Kalika) against many demon warlords (such as Sumbh, Nisumbh, Chandh,
Mundh, Domar Lochan and Rakt Beej). Based on the tales of Durga
in Markandey Puraan, these ballads also weave in the intricacies
of the higher power (Akal) that controls creation, yet is also within
it. The 3rd ballad, Chandi Di Vaar is often read
as part of the daily liturgy of the Akali Nihang Singh Khalsa, and
is also the source of the 'Ardas' (an invocation
read daily by all Sikhs).
Chandi
A Persian painting depicting Maharaja Ranjit (left)
Singh paying his respects to the warrior goddess Chandi
