Sacha Sauda, True Bargain

Sacha Sauda, True Bargain

Doing good to the people is the way of a Sikh.
Sharing with the needy, makes the day of a Sikh.

(Guru) Nanak used to run a shop in his village, Talwandi, now called Nankana Sahib. When making purchases for his shop, he often went to a nearby town called Chuhar Kana. On the way to the town, there was a resting place where holy people who were passing through the city could stay.

(Guru) Nanak often visited these religious people to have discussions with them regarding God and his blessings. Nanak often shared his earnings with these holy men and needy people. Whenever he had a chance to be in their company, he exchanged views regarding the purpose of human life.

His father, Kalyan Chand, popularly known as Mehta Kalu, did not appreciate (Guru) Nanak Dev's conduct. Kalyan Chand advised Nanak not to lavishly give away money, food, and other articles. But Nanak continued helping people including those who would stop at Chuhar Kana on their pilgrimages. In memory of Nanak's gracious acts, Gurdwara Sacha Sauda stands there reminding us, God wants us to share our earnings with the needy.

Finally, the father asked his son to limit his habit of giving charity to the people. Rather, he wanted him to save money for future use. Nanak explained to his father that sharing money with the needy people is the "True Bargain" of life and everyone should adapt it to his ability. It is an essential duty of a human being and the right path for peace and the pleasure of the people. However, the father insisted that (Guru) Nanak should abandon the practice of giving away money and other articles. Nanaki, the elder sister of Nanak, who was married and lived at Sultanpur Lodhi was called to help settle the issue. According to the decision (Guru) Nanak Dev left Talwandi and went with his sister to her town to work there. Guru Nanak was popular with all people. He was known for his competency to manage stores and deal in them. He was therefore given the job of managing the stores of the local government at the new place. It may be mentioned here that during those days, money was rare and most of the dealings were made in kind. Managing government stores was an honorable and a very important assignment for a person.

Let us resolve today, being the followers of Guru Nanak, that we should utilize a part of our earnings for sharing with the people who need our help. This is the true bargain of life.

The true bargain of life is sharing one's earning with the needy and helping them in whatever way we can.