Gurbani Word Of The Day: varat
Posted: 15 Nov 2018 08:30 AM PSTਵਰਤੁ (varat)
Meaning: noun: Religious observance, vow, or fast.
Quote:
ਐਸਾ ਵਰਤੁ ਰਹੀਜੈ ਪਾਡੇ   ਹੋਰ ਬਹੁਤੁ ਸਿਖ ਕਿਆ ਦੀਜੈ॥
ਹੇ ਪੰਡਤ! ਜੇ ਇਹੋ ਜਿਹਾ ਵਰਤ ਰਖਿਆ ਜਾਏ, ਤਾਂ ਫਿਰ ਹੋਰ ਵਧੇਰੇ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਕੀ ਦੇਣੀ ਹੋਈ (ਭਾਵ, ਫਿਰ ਕਿਸੇ ਹੋਰ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਦੀ ਲੋੜ ਹੀ ਨਹੀਂ)।
aisaa varat raheejai paade   hor bahut sikh kiaa deejai.
O Pandit! If such a fast as this is observed, then what use are many other instructions (i.e. no more instructions are required). -Guru Amar Das, Guru Granth Sahib, 1245
Message: The practice of keeping fasts on certain days is very common in many faiths. Similarly, the practice of religious observances or making vows such as undertaking pilgrimages, some routines, or dietary restrictions, etc. can be seen in religious practices and followings.
Does making ritualistic observances or vows guarantee us our desires? Will such observances make us a better person? How can we restrain our mind and attain complete peace?
The hymn from which this verse is taken says: Instead of adhering to such physical means, if we tread on the path of truth, we speak truth and observe truthful living; if we keep our unhealthy urges under check, learn to control our excessive lust, wrath and greed, etc., then, that will be the right observance, which will help our mind to be content and calm. There will be no need for any physical observances or vows anymore.
Such a conduct as this, if followed, will certainly lead us to everlasting bliss, here and now. Why delay, start today!
Etymology: From Sanskrit vrat (ordinance, religious duty) → Pali vat (religious vow; manner of behaviour) → Prakrit vya (ordinance, vow).