Page:The Sikh Religion, its gurus, sacred writings and authors Vol 2.djvu/89

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That without the Name there is no deliverance.

In the four ages the Name is considered the best word,

And by means of it in this Kalage the pious are saved.

The True One neither dieth nor suffereth transmigration.

Nanak, the holy shall be absorbed in God.

A rich Muhammadan horse-dealer named Alayar, a native of Dihli, who had returned from Arabia through Kabul with five hundred horses, arrived at the Bias. He had intended to proceed to his native city, where he hoped to find a good market, but was unable to continue his journey as the river was flooded, and the boatmen did not think their boats sufficiently strong to withstand the current. The following morning he saw Bhai Paro, on his way to the Guru as usual, plunge his horse into the foaming river and reach the opposite shore in safety. The horse-dealer met him on his return, and complimented him on the feat he had performed. Bhai Paro said there was nothing wonderful in his crossing a swollen river. The true Guru, to whom he daily went to do homage, caused thousands of souls to swim across the still more dangerous ocean of the world. Alayar was anxious to behold so great a being, so he arranged with Paro on the next occasion to sit behind him on his horse, and thus cross the river and visit the Guru with him.

Alayar was delighted on seeing the Guru, hearing his words, and witnessing the devotion of his Sikhs. Filled with enthusiasm and humility he mentally desired the Guru's leavings. The Guru divined his wish and offered him the dish from which he had eaten. The Guru's attention was then attracted to his name, and he said, ‘It is difficult to become a friend (yar) of God (Allah), but I will make God thy Master, and thee His servant.’ Thus was Alayar made a priest and freed from all doubts, evil passions, and inclinations. He henceforth drew no distinction between Hindus and Muhammadans, and continued