DIPA, BHAI

DIPA, BHAI, was a devoted Sikh of Guru Arjan\’s time (Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 22). He zealously served in the Guru ka Larigar. He cooked food and served it to visiting Sikhs. He took the last turn and ate what was left over. He washed with warm water the feet of those who came from afar and kneaded their limbs to relieve them of fatigue. On cold winter nights he went round adjusting the quilts and coverlets of sleeping visitors. Upon his lips were always the Guru`s hymns.

According to Bhai Mani Singh, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala, Guru Arjan pleased with his devotion, once said, “Dipa is a dipak, i.e. a lamp. As one lamp flame lights another, so would Bhai Dipa, having received true knowledge, diffuse it among those who come in contact with him.” Bhai Dipa was appointed a masand, or area leader to spread the Guru`s message.

References :

�1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amritsar, 1955
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Sura] Granth. Amritsar, 1926-37