Page:The Sikh Religion, its gurus, sacred writings and authors Vol 1.djvu/176

80 May it not be that on beholding them I may forget Thee and not remember Thy name!

Were I to become a Sidh and work miracles; could I command the wealth of the universe to come to me; Could I disappear and appear at pleasure, and were the world to honour me; May it not be that on beholding these things I may forget Thee and not remember Thy name! - Were I to become a monarch on my throne and raise an army; Were dominion and regal revenue mine—O Nanak, they would be all worthless— May it not be that on beholding these things I may forget Thee and not remember Thy name!

Then Kaljug went round him in adoration, fell at his feet, and took his departure. On the way Guru and Mardana sought shelter in a village, but were not allowed to remain there. The villagers began to play practical jokes on them. The Guru on that occasion uttered the following verses:— When I remain silent, they say I have no understanding in my heart; When I speak, they say I chatter too much; When I sit, they say I have spread my pallet to stay; When I go away, they say I have thrown dust on my head; When I bow down, they say I perform my devotions through fear. I can do nothing by which I may spend my time in peace. Both here and hereafter may the Creator preserve Nanak's honour!

Then the Guru composed the following hymn in the Rag Malar:—