In the tranquil hours of dawn, a transformative collection of hymns known as Asa-di-Var emerges, echoing the profound teachings of Guru Nanak. Composed in the form of a heroic ballad and set to the musical mode of Raga Asa, this spiritual masterpiece intricately weaves together Slokas and Pauris, offering a journey from the mundane to the divine.
Guru Nanak’s Asa-di-Var is a rich heritage of wisdom, delving into the core theme of elevating oneself from a lowly state to a godly existence, ultimately paving the way for union with the divine. The verses resonate with a piercing critique of societal hypocrisy, addressing the ambivalence of religious pretense and the blind imitation of foreign customs to appease ruling powers.
Opening with a hymn praising the guru’s transformative power, the Var emphasizes the indispensable role of a spiritual guide in one’s journey toward godliness. It sternly asserts that those who believe they can navigate this path alone are destined for failure.
The hymns paint a vivid picture of the creation of the universe and the inherent righteousness of God’s design. The cosmos, governed by just and true laws, is a testament to the divine, calling for continuous glorification of God’s immortal and bountiful nature.
The verses emphasize the limitations of human comprehension in the face of God-made phenomena. From the intricacies of nature to the diverse forms of life, the Var encourages awe and praise for the divine. It serves as a reminder that, left to his own devices, man may succumb to lust and waste his earthly sojourn.
In a poignant critique of the prevailing age, the Var describes the Kaliyuga, an era marked by greed, lust, and a lack of virtue among scholars and warriors. The hymns caution against the pursuit of comfort, portraying pain as a potential remedy for spiritual ills.
Central to the teachings is the significance of divine knowledge bestowed by a true teacher, the sat guru, who imparts the divine word and helps disciples overcome ego. The Var dismisses the notion that book-learning, pilgrimage, or penance alone can lead to the supreme truth.
A recurring theme is the necessity of introspection and purity of heart. It emphasizes that true cleanliness is not in external rituals but in the thoughts, actions, and intentions within. The Var urges individuals to seek a sat guru who acts as a beacon of knowledge, cleansing the soul and guiding the way to righteousness.
Asa-di-Var concludes with a powerful call for goodness in actions and earnings, emphasizing the need to align one’s deeds with the pleasure of the divine. It echoes the idea that, in the face of the infinite greatness of God, complaints are futile, and one must strive to act in a way that merits the Lord’s favor.
In a world overshadowed by materialism and hypocrisy, Asa-di-Var stands as a timeless guide, offering profound insights into the human condition and providing a roadmap for those seeking spiritual enlightenment in the dawn of a new day.
