Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!

In the bustling streets of our modern world, the clamor for worldly knowledge often drowns out the whispers of the spirit. Like eager students poring over countless volumes, we devour information, seeking to build a fortress of intellect around us. Yet, amidst the verses of Asa ki Var, the Song of Hope lies a profound reflection on the futility of this pursuit when driven solely by ego.

Guru Nanak Sahib's words resonate deeply: Even if carts are loaded with books having been read unendingly, even if the caravans are laden with books having been read unendingly. Even if having read books unendingly, they are loaded in a boat; even if they are lined up in the basement having been read unendingly. Even if, books are read for as many years after years as there are; even if books are read for as many months as there are. Even if, books are read for as much life-span as there is; even if books are read for as many breaths as there are. Nanak! Only one thing is acceptable in the account, everything else is merely nonsensical blabbering resulting from egoism.

Imagine a caravan laden with books, each page a testament to our thirst for understanding. Picture the boat burdened with the weight of endless tomes, sailing through the sea of knowledge. As we immerse ourselves in this imagery, let us pause and allow our thoughts to settle like leaves gently descending to the ground. In this moment of reflection, consider our journey—an odyssey without a compass, where the traveler gathers maps yet struggles to discern the true direction.

This is not to discredit the pursuit of knowledge. Indeed, the thirst for understanding is a noble endeavor. Yet, without the Wisdom-Guru, without anchoring ourselves in Nam, Divine-Identification, we risk wandering through the labyrinth of existence.

When we embrace this truth, when we walk with the awareness of IkOankar, the One Universal Integrative Force, we transcend the shackles of ego. We become vessels of Grace, liberated from the burdens of expectation, desire, and worry.

May we not merely accumulate knowledge but seek wisdom.
May we not merely read but understand.
May the Wisdom-Guru be with us!