Pilot entry: source checked; awaiting review by readers from this tradition.
Original source · Historical tradition
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji: Ang 8, Japji Sahib, closing Salok (begins 'Pavan guru, paani pita, maata dharat mahat')
“Air is the Guru, Water is the Father, and Earth is the Great Mother of all.”Translation: Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa (via SriGranth.org)
The closing salok of Japji Sahib calls air the Guru, water the father and earth the great mother, with day and night as the nurses in whose lap the world plays. It goes on to say that good and bad deeds are read out in the divine court and that those who meditate on the Name are liberated and free others too.
Read the full passage at the source.
Edition: Short quotation from the English translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa, as published on SriGranth.org.
Historical context
Historical context
Japji Sahib, which opens the Guru Granth Sahib, is attributed to Guru Nanak (1469–1539). The scripture was compiled by Guru Arjan in 1604 (the Adi Granth) and given its final form under Guru Gobind Singh.
Interpretations differ
Within the tradition
Sikhs commonly read the salok as an image of creation as a nurturing family under the one Creator, together with moral accountability and the liberating power of Naam (meditation on the divine Name). Many recite it daily as part of Nitnem. Emphases vary among Sikh communities and interpreters, including modern environmental readings.
Respect and care
Cultural protocol
Sikhs revere the Guru Granth Sahib as the living Guru, and Gurbani is presented with special respect. We do not alter its words, mix it with commercial or decorative imagery, or show the Granth casually.
21 EFFECTS contemporary reflection · Connection
A practice inspired by this text
This practice is a 21 EFFECTS reflection. It is not the tradition’s own teaching or its only meaning, and you do not need to share its beliefs to use it.
- Breathe slowly for one minute and notice the air.
- Drink a glass of water attentively.
- Stand or sit on the ground, or hold a plant, and consider what sustains you without asking anything in return.
How do I treat the gifts that sustain me without asking anything of me?
Does this speak to you?
Saved sources accompany your journey days as an extra reflection. Private, on this device only.
Further research
Go to the source
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji: Ang 8, Japji Sahib, closing Salok (begins 'Pavan guru, paani pita, maata dharat mahat'). Read the passage in full, in context, and with teachers from the tradition where possible. Spotted an error? Send a correction.