This ninth stanza (
savaiya), describes the liberation introduced at the end of the eighth. This liberation is the fruit of devotional love and comes only by Grace. Guru Arjan reveals that liberation is attained through
Nam (Identification with
IkOankar, the
One Creative and Pervasive Force). In this stanza, IkOankar is referred to as both
Hari and
Prabhu, names that highlight the One’s all-pervasiveness, power to eliminate suffering, and masterful qualities. These names add intimacy, depth, and personality to the relationship formed through Identification. It is by Identification that we come to experience these qualities of IkOankar within ourselves.
Guru Arjan affirms the immense power within this Identification, calling it supreme in every way. Through Identification, we are healed, desires are fulfilled, and tendencies toward vice and transgression are eliminated. Identification is described as the medicine of medicines, the chant of chants, the spell above all spells—beyond any other offering. Guru Arjan invokes the
lotus-feet of IkOankar, saying that by enshrining the lotus-feet in the heart, the aims of all spiritual endeavors—pilgrimages, almsgiving, austerities, purification rituals, and more—are fulfilled. The lotus-feet actually symbolize Identification with IkOankar. The lotus flower reflects the ambrosial, enticing essence of this experience; it rises immaculate and radiant despite being surrounded by and rooted in mud. The feet signify a longing to be mentored, to receive wisdom, and to follow that wisdom with humility. Together, lotus and feet create powerful imagery, reminding us of the essence and lived experience of Identification.
A deep sentiment of intimacy emerges, especially toward the end of the stanza. Guru Arjan invokes IkOankar as the sweetest friend, companion, relative, and beloved. IkOankar alone offers this intimacy, in this world and beyond, to all people. Guru Arjan reminds us that IkOankar is the very Supporter of our being and our breath. As Identification heals our sorrows, fulfills our desires, and lessens our bondages, we experience this sweet, intimate relationship with the One.
What Identification provides is what everyone seeks on their journey. Many believe they need a rare cure, a perfect mantra, or the right practice for spiritual growth and relief from suffering. Pilgrimages and other rituals are pursued in search of salvation. Yet, Identification with IkOankar is the true pilgrimage and the real purifying bath; no travel is required, as the opportunity for Identification is always present. It brings fulfillment in unexpected ways, overturning our original expectations. The pursuits we thought would bring freedom could not do so, because they were not grounded in Identification with IkOankar. They kept us wandering and searching, no matter our faith in them. Guru Arjan has reminded us in earlier stanzas that temporary pleasures, when indulged in, become illnesses. Only Identification—experienced through praise, love, and devotion—offers true healing. It is the deeply mending balm available to all who praise, love, and devote themselves to the One.
What are we pursuing? Will we pursue Identification with the all-pervasive One, the One who eliminates our suffering? Will we come to meet our most sweet friend, companion, and loved One?
