editorial articles reviews news & views - Institute of Sikh Studies
editorial articles reviews news & views - Institute of Sikh Studies
editorial articles reviews news & views - Institute of Sikh Studies
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RELEVANCE OF GURU GRANTH SAHIB IN THE TWENTY FIRST CENTURY<br />
23<br />
Flee ever by day or night lust, violence and<br />
Consorting with the evil-minded. 6<br />
For pleasure <strong>of</strong> lust lasting for twinkling <strong>of</strong> an eye,<br />
For millions <strong>of</strong> days does man suffer:<br />
For a brief hour in pleasure he indulges;<br />
Later into endless regrets falling. 7<br />
In involvement with in lust, wrath, avarice, attachment and<br />
pride lies not joy. 8<br />
One brought in a flask full <strong>of</strong> wine.<br />
Another a cup filled with that, drinking <strong>of</strong> which takes away sense,<br />
And dementia results.<br />
Man then distinguishes not between what is right and what wrong,<br />
And so from the Lord is pushed away.<br />
Its drinking, <strong>of</strong> the Lord makes one forgetful,<br />
And at the Divine Portal brings chastisement.<br />
As far as lies in your power, drink not this false wine. 9<br />
Those consuming liquor <strong>of</strong> mad evil-thinking,<br />
Are like husbands <strong>of</strong> harlots. 10<br />
Saith Kabir : Creatures that consume hemp, fish or liquor<br />
Even though visiting holy spots, keeping fasts and vows,<br />
All to nethermost hell must go. 11<br />
Guru Granth Sahib attaches much importance to ethical values:<br />
Let his eye not cast a glance at the womenfolk <strong>of</strong> others’<br />
And in holy company should serve the holy. 12<br />
Of evil passions <strong>of</strong> lust and wrath hard is the burden.<br />
How without the Name can noble qualities arise 13<br />
Go, daughter-princess!<br />
Repeat God’s Name, at dawn decking yourself with truth. 14