TARU POPAT

TARU POPAT is listed in Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 13, among prominent Sikhs of the time of Guru Nanak (1469-1539). Bhai Mani Singh, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala, elaborating the reference in Bhai Gurdas says that Taru Popat was only a young boy often when he presented himself before the Guru and made the submission, “Friend of the poor, I have heard that whosoever meets a saint obtains peace. I have taken refuge at thy feet!” The Guru said, “You are yet too young and have hardly seen anything of this life. Where from have you learnt to think of these things.” Spoke Popat, “One day I watched my mother make a fire.

I saw that the smaller logs caught fire sooner than the bigger ones. It occurred to me that. I should see a saint as soon as possible so that I secure happiness. Who knows when death might strike?” The Guru pronounced the blessing, “Taru (lit. `swimmer`), thou shalt be the salvager of thy clan. Learn to make an honest living and learn to share the fruit of thy labour with others. Remember thy Creator always.” Acting upon the Guru`s word Taru Popat, says Bhai Mani Singh, attained liberation.

References :

1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amritsar, 1955
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri” Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar, 1927-35
3. Macauliffe, M.A., The Sikh Religion. Oxford, 1909