PRITHA, BHAI

PRITHA, BHAI, and Bhai Kheda. both Soini Khatris, who figure in Bhai Gurdas` list of the leading Sikhs of Guru Nanak {Varan, XI. 13), first met the Guru at Kartarpur. As they arrived. Guru Nanak, says Bhai Mani Singh, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala, was speaking with his disciples. Pritha and his companion sat down and listened attentively. At the end, the Guru enquired of them the purpose of their visit.

Bhai Pritha said, “Pray, grant us the gift of contentment so that we need to seek nothing whatsoever. Refuge at thy feet is all we ask for.” The Guru spoke, “Seek refuge in sangat, fellowship of the holy. The body is material (hence, impermanent); it is the sabad (the Word) that is everlasting. So is union with sabad.

Simultaneously, do not neglect to apply yourself diligently to earning your living and to sharing your victuals with the needy.” Bhai Pritha and Bhai Kheda took the precept and, as says Bhai Gurdas, led a life of sukhsahaj, i.e. peace and equipoise.

References :

1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amritsar, 1955
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Guru Nanak Prakash. Amritsar, n.d.