Amritvela

Vaheguru Jee Kaa Khalsa Vaheguru Jee Kee Fateh,

What is amritvela??Why is amritvela so important?? What time according to gurbani does amritvela start and end?? What are the best ways of getting up for amritvela?? And if you are up, how can you avoid falling asleep whilst doing amritvela??

It has been my experience that Amrit Vela becomes difficult when we waste our time doing usless things throughout the day.

Early morning Amrit Vela only becomes difficult if our life styles our difficult. If we sleep early , avoid watching useless programs on t.v.etc, and spend our leisure time doing Naam Simran, Kirtan, Gurmat Veechar, etc then Amrit Vela is quite simple. If you go to sleep early then you should have no difficulties in being tired during Amrit Vela.

Amrit Vela is important because its the time where we engage in Naam for Guru Jis kirpa,and the goal is throughout the day to keep this naam going so Amrit Vela is a must.Even though we should be attempting to remember WaaheGuru 24/7 when sitting and standing ; Amrit Vela is a time where we are free from worldly duties and a time of quiteness and peace in which we can engage in more concentrated Bhagti, since we are free from worldly duties.

In regards to the time some people say Amrit Vela starts from 12am-5am others say 3- 6am. People say and they use Gurbani as a reference that Amrit Vela starts at 3am. They say that aath pehar ( refers to last period of the night) which is 3- 6 am. There are eight periods ( aath pehar) and each pehar has a time span of 3 hours. SO the last pehar is 3- 6 am. I dont know how true this, I dont think it is as important to get into the mechanics on what time Amrit Vela exactly starts. We know Amirt Vela ends after the Sun rises so the early you wake the more better it is for you. The earlier we rise the more time we have to engage in Bhagti before we attend our worldly chores.

In a way a Gursikh has two Amrit Velas. The hours he/she wakes before their worldly duties ( anytime between 12-5 am) and the hours they engage in Bhagti after their worldly duties are done. After work, school,etc one should continue on with Bhagti through Naam Simran , Kirtan, Veechar, etc. People often argue about what is Sampooran Rehras. Sampooran Rehras is the rehras accepted by the Akal Takht in addition to Naam SImran, Kirtan, extra Paath, etc. If we quickly do rehras then go straight to watching useless t.v. shows , playing video games, or any other manmat activies then the rehras is not Sampooran. Rehras time which starts after we have completed our Worldly chores is our second Amrit Vela we should try to do as much Bhagti as possible during this time whether it be Naam Simran, Kirtan, Veechar, extra Paath, etc.

The Bhagti we engage in during our second Amrit vela the more fruit we engage in during our 1st Amrit Vela and vice versa. So if we want to wake during Amrit Vela with relative ease its best to avoid things that pollute the mind during the day and engage in things which strengthen and clean the mind

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Dhanvadh Veer Jee,

But can anyone tell me in dept about amritvela, and when did this whole concept start and how, what is the history behind amritvela etc, and also can you explain in dept of the things i asked at the start of this topic, its important to understand amritvela properly, so you would want to do it (If you get what i mean)

Thanks in advance

Gurfateh Jee

veerji, per my limited understanding, the concept of amrit vela (as in waking up before dawn for bhagti) is very old. the pre-muslim parsis started their devotions before sunrise. the "fourth watch" in christian and jewish history is between 3-6 AM, it is when jesus walked on water to save his disciples. it's also the time that moses freed the jewish slaves from egypt. christian monks and nuns start their daily prayers in these hours before sunrise, as do buddhist monks. even the koran states that doing meditation before sunrise will please God. according to european pagans, the hours after midnight are when we experience "epiphanies", or realization of God. so this concept is not only in Sikhi, it's in most religions. there's something special about that time of day. it's so peaceful, meditation is easier because there are no distractions. according to science, amrit vela is the time when our body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate are at their lowest. this means it's when we're the most relaxed. obviously this will aid us in our meditation.

per gurbani, the first mention of amritvela is in japji sahib:

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲਾ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਉ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥

Guru Angad Dev ji describes the spiritual importance of amrit vela:

ਚਉਥੈ ਪਹਰਿ ਸਬਾਹ ਕੈ ਸੁਰਤਿਆ ਉਪਜੈ ਚਾਉ ॥ ਤਿਨਾ ਦਰੀਆਵਾ ਸਿਉ ਦੋਸਤੀ ਮਨਿ ਮੁਖਿ ਸਚਾ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਕੰਚਨ ਕਾਇਆ ਕਸੀਐ ਵੰਨੀ ਚੜੈ ਚੜਾਉ ॥ ਕੰਚਨ ਕਾਇਆ ਕਸੀਐ ਵੰਨੀ ਚੜੈ ਚੜਾਉ ॥

(the fourth watch of the night is from 3-6 AM)

it's interesting that it's such an important time for spirituality for nearly all religions, not only sikhi. of course, only sikhi should matter to us... but i'm always fascinated by the commonalities between faiths. it shows us that there truly is only one God, no matter what you believe.

Siri Jap jee Sahib – Importance of Amritvela

In the 4th pauri of Siri Jap jee Sahib, the following 4 pankitis are of great significance as far as Amritvela is concerned:

ਫੇਰਿ, ਕਿ ਅਗੈ ਰਖੀਐ, ਜਿਤੁ ਦਿਸੈ ਦਰਬਾਰੁ ॥

From the first two pankitis (of this pauri) we find out that all that we have is from Vaheguru. Since, everything is from Vaheguru, then, what is it that we can present to Vaheguru so that we may be able to behold his Darbar (court)?


ਮੁਹੌ, ਕਿ ਬੋਲਣੁ ਬੋਲੀਐ, ਜਿਤੁ ਸੁਣਿ ਧਰੇ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥

Continuing on from the previous pankiti, Siri Guru jee asks second question, “what should be uttered from the mouth, hearing which, he may shower his love on us.”

This pankiti proves that there is such a word, by the uttering of which, he showers us with love. We all know that this word is Naam-Gurmantra.


ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲਾ, ਸਚੁ ਨਾਉ, ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥

The response to the questions in the 2 previous pankitis is most magnificent. Siri Guru jee says that in order to view his darbaar and to get his love, one must have Amritvela, Sacha Naam (true Naam) and contemplation of his qualities (through Gurbani).

In other words, one must possess Amritvela i.e. get up early in the morning and do chanting of Sach Naam and do contemplation of his qualities through Gurbani


ਕਰਮੀ ਆਵੈ ਕਪੜਾ, ਨਦਰੀ ਮੋਖੁ ਦੁਆਰੁ ॥

When one does what is mentioned in the previous pankiti, then through his grace (karmi, kirpa naal) one receives the cloth or robe of honour (siropa) and by his kirpa (nadree) one receives Mokh-duaar (doorway of salvation).

Some scholars have interpreted the word “ਕਪੜਾ” as the human form but the problem in doing these meanings is that the flow that is continuing from previous pankitis is lost. Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh jee, Giani Bachan Singh Faridkoti, Professor Sahib Singh and many other scholars have interpreted this word as robe of honour (siropa).

From the above vichaar, it is clear that the way to achieve salvation and grace of Vaheguru is to have Amritvela Naam Abhyaas.

What is Amritvela?

Amritvela is the last pehar (3 hours or so) of the night, which is highly productive time for Naam Japna. The whole world is sleeping and Gursikhs find this time very peaceful to concentrate on Naam and contemplate on the qualities of Vaheguru listed in Gurbani. Gurmukhs who have reached high spiritual states say that at this time there is a shower or rainfall of Amrit. For this reason, one can effortlessly concentrate on Naam and achieve the spiritual aim much faster.

The nights become long and short at different times of the year. For this reason many Gursikhs stick to one time to get up year around. If a Gursikh gets up around 2am, it is the most suitable time. Some Gursikhs get up even at 11:30 pm and get ready at 12 am to japp Naam. While one must commend this effort of these Gursikhs but reading history we find out that most Gursikhs used to get up around 2am or be ready for Simran at 2am.

More References from Gurbani

The effort of getting up at Amritvela has been ordained by Guru Sahib in Gurbani. Presented below are some pankitis that give us hukam to get up early morning:

ਚਉਥੈ ਪਹਰਿ ਸਬਾਹ ਕੈ, ਸੁਰਤਿਆ ਉਪਜੈ ਚਾਉ॥
ਤਿਨਾ ਦਰੀਆਵਾ ਸਿਉ ਦੋਸਤੀ, ਮਨਿ ਮੁਖਿ ਸਚਾ ਨਾਉ॥

The alert ones who are seekers of Vaheguru, with great enthusiasm get up by the 4th part of the night. Their friendship is with rivers (where they take shower i.e. do ishnaan) and in their mouth and mind is the true Naam.


ਫਰੀਦਾ ਪਿਛਲ ਰਾਤਿ ਨ ਜਾਗਿਓਹਿ ਜੀਵਦੜੋ ਮੁਇਓਹਿ॥
ਜੇ ਤੈ ਰਬੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਿਆ ਤ ਰਬਿ ਨ ਵਿਸਰਿਓਹਿ॥

Baba Farid jee in his baani stated above, is making it clear that ones who don’t get up at the last part of the night are spiritually dead people.


ਡਖਣੇਮ:5॥
ਪਰਭਾਤੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਿ ਗੁਰ ਕੇ ਚਰਣ ਧਿਆਇ॥
ਜਨਮ ਮਰਣ ਮਲੁ ਉਤਰੈ ਸਚੇ ਕੇ ਗੁਣ ਗਾਇ॥

Siri Guru Arjun Dev jee Maharaj in Maaroo Dakhne (above) state that O Gursikh, if you chant the Naam at early morning and this way contemplate on the Charan of Guru, and sing the praises of Vaheguru, your dirt of birth and death (many life forms) will be erased.


ਇਕਿ ਪੜਹਿ ਸੁਣਹਿ ਗਾਵਹਿ ਪਰਭਾਤਿਹਿ ਕਰਹਿ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ॥
ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਕਰਹਿ ਪਰਭਾਤਿ ਸੁਧ ਮਨਿ ਗੁਰ ਪੂਜਾ ਬਿਧਿ ਸਹਿਤ ਕਰੰ ॥
ਕੰਚਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਹੋਇ ਪਰਸਿ ਪਾਰਸ ਕਉ ਜੋਤਿ ਸਰੂਪੀ ਧ੍ਹਾਨੁ ਧਰੰ ॥॥

Translation: There are fortunate ones, who at the time of early morning take shower (do Ishnaan) and then read, hear and sing Gurbani and Naam. After taking shower at early morning with pure heart they do worshipping of Vaheguru with full methodology. The body becomes gold like by touching the Paaras of Naam and by concentrating on Jyot Roopi (spirit form) Vaheguru.


ਬਾਬੀਹਾ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲੈ ਬੋਲਿਆ ਤਾਂ ਦਰਿ ਸੁਣੀ ਪੁਕਾਰ ॥
ਮੇਘੈ ਨੋ ਫੁਰਮਾਨੁ ਹੋਆ ਵਰਸਹੁ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਧਾਰਿ ॥

Babeeha is a bird that can drink water only from rainfall. Even if there is ocean full of water, this bird cannot use this water to quench its thirst. It has to rely on rain water. When this bird gets thirsty, it cries in such mercy-invoking way that it melts the heart of who ever hears it. Vaheguru too is prompted to send rainfall to quench the thirst of this bird.

When the Gursikh roopi Babeeha cries out (chants Naam with love) at amritvela, only then his cries or requests are heard by Vaheguru. This pankiti makes it clear that unless we do Amritvela, our cries and requests are not heard by Vaheguru.

Amritvela is important for a Gursikh because it is the hukam of Guru Sahib to get up early and engage in Naam Abhyaas. Gurbani goes as far as saying that those who don’t get up early morning are spiritually dead. Please refer to the aforementioned Gurbani Pankitis for detail on this.


What to do at Amritvela?

ਮ: 4 ॥
ਗੁਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਜੋ ਸਿਖੁ ਅਖਾਏ ਸੁ ਭਲਕੇ ਉਠਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥
ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰੇ ਭਲਕੇ ਪਰਭਾਤੀ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਵੈ ॥
ਉਪਦੇਸਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਜਪੁ ਜਾਪੈ ਸਭਿ ਕਿਲਵਿਖ ਪਾਪ ਦੋਖ ਲਹਿ ਜਾਵੈ ॥
ਫਿਰਿ ਚੜੈ ਦਿਵਸੁ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਗਾਵੈ ਬਹਦਿਆ ਉਠਦਿਆ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥
ਜੋ ਸਾਸਿ ਗਿਰਾਸਿ ਧਿਆਏ ਮੇਰਾ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵੈ ॥
ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਦਇਆਲੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਮੇਰਾ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਗੁਰੂ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥
ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਧੂੜਿ ਮੰਗੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਹ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ ॥2॥


As per the famous salok of Siri Guru Ramdaas jee Maharaj, listed above, the following should be done at Amritvela:

1) Recitation of Naam as soon as one gets up.

2) Gurmat Ishnaan of whole of the body including the hair. While doing Ishnaan one must do paath of Gurbani, Mool Mantra or Naam Abhyaas.

3) Nitnem of 5 Baanis should begin after Ishnaan is done and not while doing Ishnaan.

4) Nitnem of 5 baanis is of utmost importance and should be done at amritvela.

5) Naam Abhyaas can be done alone too but to have maximum benefit, it should be done along with Siri Sukhmani Sahib (reference from Bhai Sahib’s writing coming later in this article).

6) After concluding Naam Abhyaas, one should go to Gurdwara Sahib or where ever one can have darshan of Siri Guru Granth Sahib jee and do kirtan of Siri Asa kee Vaar. The amritvela should conclude with Siri Asa kee Vaar and if possible with Karah Parshad.

7) Then during the day, doing all tasks, one should continue doing Naam Abhyaas.

8) Such Gursikh who does Naam Abhyaas all the time through every breath is very dear to Guru Sahib.


Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh jee's views on Amritvela

With reference to the above Salok, Bhai Sahib has written the following:

ਵਿਆਖਿਆ ਭਾਵ: ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਦੇ ਸਚੇ ਸਿਖ ਦੀ ਬਸੇਖ ਕਿਰਿਆ ਸੰਜਮੀ ਕਾਰ ਦਾ ਨਿਤਾ ਪ੍ਰਤੀ ਬਿਬੇਕ ਕਰਮ ਨੇਮ (ਧਾਰਨਾ) ਏਹ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਨਿਤ ਸਵੇਰੇ ਉਠ ਕੇ ਬਿਧੀ ਪੂਰਬਕ ਨਾਮ ਧਿਆਵੈ। ਦੂਜੀ ਪੰਗਤੀ (ਤੁਕ) ਤੋਂ ਨਾਮ ਧਿਆਵਨ ਦੀ ਸੰਜਮ ਬਿਧੀ ਅਰੰਭ ਹੁੰਦੀ ਹੈ। ਉਦਮ ਕਰਕੇ ਵਡੇ ਤੜਕੇ ਉਠੇ (ਸਾਵਧਾਨ ਹੋਵੇ) ਅਤੇ ਇਸ਼ਨਾਨ ਕਰੇ ਅਤੇ ਇਸ਼ਨਾਨ ਸਮੇਂ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਠ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰੋਵਰ ਦਾ ਮਜਨ ਕਰਨ ਹਾਰਾ ਬਣੇ। ਫੇਰ ਗੁਰੂ ਉਪਦੇਸ਼ੀ ਨਿਤਨੇਮ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਠ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਨਾਮ ਦਾ ਜਾਪ ਕਰੇ ਜਿਸ ਦੇ ਕਰਨ ਕਰਕੇ ਕਮਾਤੇ ਪਾਪ ਦੋਖ ਸਭ ਲਹਿ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ। ਫੇਰ ਦਿਨ ਚੜ੍ਹੇ (ਸੂਰਜ ਉਦੇ ਹੋਣ ਸਾਰ) “ਗੁਰੂ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਹੋਇ ਕੈ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸੰਮਾਲੇਹੁ” ਗੁਰਵਾਕ ਦੇ ਭਾਵ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਦਰਸ਼ਨ ਦਿਦਾਰੇ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਮਧੁਰ ਸੁਰ ਨਾਲ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਪਾਠ ਕਰੇ। ਫੇਰ ਕਾਰ ਬਿਹਾਰ ਕਰਦਿਆਂ ਹੋਇਆਂ ਭੀ ਉਠਦਿਆਂ ਬਹਿੰਦਆਂ ਤੁਰਦਿਆਂ ਫਿਰਦਿਆਂ ਸਾਸਿ ਗਿਰਾਸਿ ਨਾਮ ਅਭਿਆਸ ਵਿਚ ਹਰਦਮ ਜੁਟਿਆ ਰਹੇ।

Loose Translation: The everyday activity of a true Bibeki Sikh of Satguru is get up in the morning and meditate on Naam according to the Gurmat methodology (Vidhi Poorbak). From the second verse of this Salok, the starting of the methodology of Naam Abhyaas is described. A Gursikh should get up very early in the morning and take shower and while taking shower, he should chant the Amrit Baani and this way do Ishnaan in the Sarovar (pond) of Amritsar. Then while doing the paath of Nitnem (prescribed 5 baanis), he should do Naam Abhyaas and as a result of this doing, all sins get washed away. Then at sunrise, as per the hukam “ਗੁਰੂ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਹੋਇ ਕੈ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸੰਮਾਲੇਹੁ”, while doing darshan of Siri Guru Granth Sahib jee, he should recite or sing Gurbani with sweet voice. Then while doing all works during the day, he should continue to recite Naam with every breath.


Bhai Sahib writes that there comes an avastha while reciting Naam, when one’s concentration just becomes dull and one cannot derive pleasure or rass from Naam Abhyaas. To avoid this Bhai Sahib has written that, it is a good idea to do Naam Abhyaas and Gurbani Paath together. Bhai Sahib has written the following with respect to this:

ਇਸ ਤੋਂ ਬਚਣ ਦਾ ਸਭ ਤੋਂ ਵਧੀਆ ਉਪਾਉ ਏਹ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਪਹਿਲੀ ਅਵਸਥਾ ਤੋਂ ਹੀ ਨਾਮ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਅਭਿਆਸ ਇਕੱਠਾ ਹੀ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਵੇ। ਅਤੇ ਬਾਣੀ ਖਾਸ ਕਰਿ ਸੁਖਮਨੀ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਅਭਿਆਸ, ਨਾਮ ਅਭਿਆਸ ਦੇ ਨਾਲ ਅਤਿ ਗੁਣਕਾਰੀ ਹੈ। ਬਾਣੀ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ (ਨਾਮੀ ਜਿਸ ਦਾ ਕਿ ਨਾਮ ਜਪੀਦਾ ਹੈ) ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਚਾਬਕ ਮਾਰ ਕੇ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੀ (ਅਭਿਆਸੀ ਜਨ) ਨੂੰ ਨਾਮ ਅਭਿਆਸ ਵਲ ਸਾਵਧਾਨ ਰਖਦੀ ਹੈ ਅਤੇ ਨਾਮ ਦੀ ਮਹਿਮਾ ਦੇ ਗੁਣਾਨਵਾਦ ਕਹਿ ਕਹਿ ਕੇ ਨਾਮ ਦਾ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਪਿਆਰ ਉਪਜਾਉਂਦੀ ਹੈ, ਏਹ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਹੀ ਸਾਵਧਾਨਤਾ ਦਾ ਸੰਜਮ ਹੈ। ਏਹ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਹੀ ਸੁਰਤੀ ਬਿਰਤੀ ਦੇ ਉਚੇਰਾ ਰੱਖਣ ਦੀ ਔਖਧੀ ਹੈ!! ਅਤੇ ਏਹ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਹੀ ਸਰਬਤਰ ਫੁਰਨਿਆਂ ਕੁਫੁਰਨਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਮਾਰਨ ਦਾ ਮਾਰਣ (ਦਾਰੂ) ਹੈ। ਗਲ ਕੀ! ਏਹ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਹੀ ਨਾਮ ਅਭਿਆਸ ਦੀ ਜੁਗਤੀਆਂ ਸਿਰ ਮੁਖ ਜੁਗਤੀ ਹੈ।

Loose Translation: The best way to be saved from this (avoid dull concentration) is to do Naam Abhyaas and Gurbani Paath together. And especially to do Abhyaas (recitation with love) of Siri Sukhmani Sahib along with Naam Abhyaas is extremely beneficial. Using the whip or lash of love of the beloved one (whose Naam we chant), Gurbani keeps one alert towards Naam Abhyaas and by praising the greatness of Naam again and again, it increases the love of Naam in the mind of the seeker. This love is the way to get concentration. This love alone is the medicine that takes one’s concentration high. And this love alone is the medicine to kill thoughts or bad thoughts (that keep coming in mind when one tries to concentrate). What else to say, this love alone is the greatest way to do Naam Abhyaas.


Some Inspirational Stories or Sayings by Mahapurakhs

Baba Sham Singh jee at a very early age of 5 years started living with a Baba Raam Singh jee. His father had died and his mother could not feed him. For this reason she came to Baba Raam Singh jee and urged him to accept Baba Sham Singh jee. Baba Sham Singh had a remarkable inclination towards doing Bhagti, at such early age. He developed so much love for sangat that he refused to go back with his mother. Once when Baba Sham Singh was only 6 or 7 years old, he became a little relaxed in getting up at Amritvela and missed Amritvela for 2 days in a row. At this Baba Raam Singh told one of his sewadaar to take Baba Sham Singh and drop him off to his mother. When Baba Sham Singh heard this, he was horrified. He could not imagine going away from sangat and this way, lose spirituality. He started crying. The sewadar lovingly told him to seek forgiveness from Sant jee. Baba Sham Singh prostrated before Sant jee and earnestly sought forgiveness for not getting up early morning. At this Sant jee forgave him and told him that if a person loses Amritvela, then there is nothing left in that person. He said if he (Baba Sham Singh) was not going to keep Amritvela in his sangat, he (Baba Raam Singh) too will have some burden of the sin incurred with this, since he is responsible for him. After this, Baba Sham Singh jee never lost Amritvela. He lived for 115 more years, after this incident.

Another Singh while describing the importance of Amritvela used to say that Siri Guru Kalgidhar jee himself takes attendance of who get up at Amritvela. If a person misses Amritvela, he marks them absent but if a person regularly misses Amritvela, Guru Sahib just strikes off his name from the list. This is a very scary thought. If Guru Sahib was to strike off our name from his list of Gursikhs he monitors, what would happen of us? We would just die.


Some Tips for getting up at Amritvela

1) Let’s face it. We are not Brahmgyanis. So we should not try to imitate them either. Brahmgyanis may sleep (in so called sleep too they japp Naam) at midnight and still get up an hour or two hours later. But we are mortal beings. We must sleep early if we want to get up early.

2) One may sleep late and still get up early for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days or even a week but eventually he will be fatigued and sooner or later will lose or miss Amritvela.

3) A normal person needs at least 5-6 hours of sleep. If one wants to get up at 2am, then one must strive to sleep at 8pm.

4) Another thing to note is that if we sleep well at night, there is much more energy to japp Naam at Amritvela and concentration is much deeper.

5) If one is to sleep at 8pm, one must eat dinner by 6pm and then walk a little after eating. If one takes dinner at 9pm and sleep at 10-11, it is much harder to get up at Amritvela. As per experience of many Gursikhs heavy dinner, late at night, is an impediment in getting up early.

6) Do Kirtan Sohila with full concentration and do ardaas before Guru Sahib for Amritvela.

7) Before sleeping, one should try to concentrate on Naam Abhyaas or repeatedly do short Gurbani paaths like Ramkali kee Vaar and Basant kee Vaar.

8) At Amritvela, one should strive to do Ishnaan with cold water. This helps in concentration.

Despite all the efforts and tricks, we must realize that Amritvela after all is a gift of Vaheguru. For this reason, the foremost thing to do is to supplicate and beg before Guru Sahib for this gift. If Guru Sahib beholds us with the eye of grace, then Amritvela is done effortlessly.

Daas,
Kulbir Singh

Dhanvadh Veer Jee,

That has gave me more and better understanding of the concept of amritvela

Gurfateh Jee

"
The best way to be saved from this (avoid dull concentration) is to do Naam Abhyaas and Gurbani Paath together. And especially to do Abhyaas (recitation with love) of Siri Sukhmani Sahib along with Naam Abhyaas is extremely beneficial. Using the whip or lash of love of the beloved one (whose Naam we chant), Gurbani keeps one alert towards Naam Abhyaas and by praising the greatness of Naam again and again, it increases the love of Naam in the mind of the seeker. This love is the way to get concentration. This love alone is the medicine that takes one’s concentration high. And this love alone is the medicine to kill thoughts or bad thoughts (that keep coming in mind when one tries to concentrate). What else to say, this love alone is the greatest way to do Naam Abhyaas."

Thanks for informing us on this super advice. I will definitely apply this method of reciting SUkhmani Sahib when the mind starts wandering during Naam ABhyaas.

What time does Amritvela begin in the morning and what time does it end?

Great topic and great thoughts provided with Gurbani references. I myself am not great USER of Amritvela yet but as i read it from BHAI SAHIB -- Amritvela is a Gift to Gursikhs from Guru Sahibs. I hear gursikhs asking questions (may be not today) -- whats your Amritvela ? (Meaning whats the Nitnem for Amritvela).

Bhai Sahib Maaf Karna but i feel we must not have this question "what time does it end?"" We should do ARDASS together Amritvela for Gursikhs never end and Gursikhs enjoy it for ever. I know in the beginning we need to kind of set schedules/alarms etc and kind of try to do 2-3 hrs and setup some routines for during this time but as we read more abt PURAAATAN Sikhs they kept going and their Amritvelas kept growing and growing.

I also feel that few RAAGIs ( i heard) have also tried to damage the concept of Amritvela -- and there is only reason "" THEY CANT GET UP THEMSELVES during this time" .. A known Ragi (recently has the medal of PANTH DUBIDAAA on DG) said in his TAPE --- SIKH JADDDON UTTTH JAYE ODDDON HI OHDA AMRITVELA ---- what a DESTRUCTIVE statement !!!!

Also questions whats the use of 4 hrs Amritvela ji if MANNN SAAF NAHIN(meaning cleaning up the mind is important than haiving a 4 hrs Amritvela) and many more. I have often found people condemning Amritvela who themselves cant get up. I must say this is special time when there is special Kirpa of Guru Sahib and who so ever has that Kirpa. I am very very LUCKY to get some GURSIKHS to push for Amritvela and question abt it on regular basis ----- Guess what if we just listen to few Raggis and beileve on themmm --- We are gone. Only a DHARNI of Amritvela can advise Amritvelaa , only his face can smile when he talks Amritvela.

I also cant forget the feel of AMRITVELA Period at DARBAAR SAHIB Amritsar, No eyes you will see without HANJUUU , specially when PALKI Sahib comes in -- its different -- u feel it there this period is different (no doubts). I have also felt that whatever else you think to do (SANSARI KUMM) during the day you do it without Alarms , but this is one thing(Amritvela) is for which you get all huddles doing. I feel thats because we get this with his KIRPAAA and cant be snatched or done with FORCE.



SatGuru Kirpa Kaaraan - sadee Sub Sawaaal Jawaaab Muk Jaaan ---- ASSIN Amritvele de DHARNIII Hi jayiiiiee te ohdi Kirpa de PAAAATAAAAR bun Jayyiiieee !!


Bhul Chuk Maaaaf

Waheguroo Ji ka Khalsa, Waheguroo Ji Ki Fateh,

Just a few questions about amritwela I would like to know from the Tapoban Canada Singhs. I was looking at Bhai Kulbir Singh article on amritwela.

He writes: As per the famous salok of Siri Guru Ramdaas jee Maharaj, listed above, the following should be done at Amritvela:

1) Recitation of Naam as soon as one gets up.

2) Gurmat Ishnaan of whole of the body including the hair. While doing Ishnaan one must do paath of Gurbani, Mool Mantra or Naam Abhyaas.

3) Nitnem of 5 Baanis should begin after Ishnaan is done and not while doing Ishnaan.

4) Nitnem of 5 baanis is of utmost importance and should be done at amritvela.

5) Naam Abhyaas can be done alone too but to have maximum benefit, it should be done along with Siri Sukhmani Sahib (reference from Bhai Sahib’s writing coming later in this article).

6) After concluding Naam Abhyaas, one should go to Gurdwara Sahib or where ever one can have darshan of Siri Guru Granth Sahib jee and do kirtan of Siri Asa kee Vaar. The amritvela should conclude with Siri Asa kee Vaar and if possible with Karah Parshad.

7) Then during the day, doing all tasks, one should continue doing Naam Abhyaas.

8) Such Gursikh who does Naam Abhyaas all the time through every breath is very dear to Guru Sahib.

I want to take your attention to point 3), in point three it talks about doing nitnem after ishnaan. This confused me as we in England do abhiyaas after ishnaan for around 2 hours and after this we are advised to do nitnem. So can some gursikh from Tapoban please shed some light on this issue, does gurbani or Gurdaas jis vaars tell us that we should do nitnem after ishnaan, but do we then do abiyaas after this. I know Tapoban Singh do abhiyaas alone at amritwela as I have been gifted the gift of doing amritwela with them in the past.

After it talks about doing abhiyaas with Sukhmani Sahib for full benefit, this is taken from Bhai Sahib Randhir Singhs book as well:

Loose Translation: The best way to be saved from this (avoid dull concentration) is to do Naam Abhyaas and Gurbani Paath together. And especially to do Abhyaas (recitation with love) of Siri Sukhmani Sahib along with Naam Abhyaas is extremely beneficial. Using the whip or lash of love of the beloved one (whose Naam we chant), Gurbani keeps one alert towards Naam Abhyaas and by praising the greatness of Naam again and again, it increases the love of Naam in the mind of the seeker. This love is the way to get concentration. This love alone is the medicine that takes one’s concentration high. And this love alone is the medicine to kill thoughts or bad thoughts (that keep coming in mind when one tries to concentrate). What else to say, this love alone is the greatest way to do Naam Abhyaas.

Now in this we read that we should do Sukmani Sahib with Abhiyaas at amritwela for full benefit, I know Bhai Sahib Surat Singh Pooran Ji use to do this, but how is this possible to do alone if my surti and jeevan is not on that level to concentrate on abhiyaas while reading Sukmani Sahib. I can see how Bhai Sahib could say this as his avastha was very high but not mine. Was Bhai sahib talking about doing this method through sangat or can some one add more from his book etc. Unless we listen to sukmani sahib through a mp3 this can be done but I doubt bhai sahib had a mp3. Please we as gursikhs should be doing things practically and not the lazy way through a mp3 player, just to add.

This points confused me so I would love it if Gurmukhs can shed some more light as they are more vadhvaan then me.

Thank you this would help me a lot...

Waheguroo Ji ka Khalsa, Waheguroo Ji ki Fateh

Pwalla jeeo,

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I want to take your attention to point 3), in point three it talks about doing nitnem after ishnaan. This confused me as we in England do abhiyaas after ishnaan for around 2 hours and after this we are advised to do nitnem. So can some gursikh from Tapoban please shed some light on this issue, does gurbani or Gurdaas jis vaars tell us that we should do nitnem after ishnaan, but do we then do abiyaas after this. I know Tapoban Singh do abhiyaas alone at amritwela as I have been gifted the gift of doing amritwela with them in the past.

What I wrote is strictly based on Bhai Sahib's writings. Bhai Sahib has written the following in Punjabi on doing nitnem:

ਉਦਮ ਕਰਕੇ ਵਡੇ ਤੜਕੇ ਉਠੇ (ਸਾਵਧਾਨ ਹੋਵੇ) ਅਤੇ ਇਸ਼ਨਾਨ ਕਰੇ ਅਤੇ ਇਸ਼ਨਾਨ ਸਮੇਂ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਠ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰੋਵਰ ਦਾ ਮਜਨ ਕਰਨ ਹਾਰਾ ਬਣੇ। ਫੇਰ ਗੁਰੂ ਉਪਦੇਸ਼ੀ ਨਿਤਨੇਮ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਠ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਨਾਮ ਦਾ ਜਾਪ ਕਰੇ ਜਿਸ ਦੇ ਕਰਨ ਕਰਕੇ ਕਮਾਤੇ ਪਾਪ ਦੋਖ ਸਭ ਲਹਿ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ।

The above was translated by this daas as follows:

A Gursikh should get up very early in the morning and take shower and while taking shower, he should chant the Amrit Baani and this way do Ishnaan in the Sarovar (pond) of Amritsar. Then while doing the paath of Nitnem (prescribed 5 baanis), he should do Naam Abhyaas and as a result of this doing, all sins get washed away

From the above it is clear that Bhai Sahib is advocating doing Nitnem and Abhyaas after Ishnaan and not during ishnaan. As for whether the nitnem should be done first or after, it does not matter. Bhai Sahib, it seems, is advocating doing Nitnem and Abhyaas together but depending on our avastha and time we get up, the nitnem can be done after or before abhyaas. I know some Singhs at Tapoban used to do nitnem before coming to abhyaas, and others used to do it after abhyaas. For ones who do abhyaas in sangat, to do Nitnem before Abhyaas, they would have to get up a little earlier so that they do not miss abhyaas.

In my humble opinion, there is no firm maryada on doing nitnem before or after abhyaas. One should do what suits one and benefits one. In any case it hardly takes 20 - 25 minutes to do nitnem alone. What's the big deal if it is done first or after abhyaas?

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Now in this we read that we should do Sukmani Sahib with Abhiyaas at amritwela for full benefit, I know Bhai Sahib Surat Singh Pooran Ji use to do this, but how is this possible to do alone if my surti and jeevan is not on that level to concentrate on abhiyaas while reading Sukmani Sahib. I can see how Bhai Sahib could say this as his avastha was very high but not mine. Was Bhai sahib talking about doing this method through sangat or can some one add more from his book etc. Unless we listen to sukmani sahib through a mp3 this can be done but I doubt bhai sahib had a mp3. Please we as gursikhs should be doing things practically and not the lazy way through a mp3 player, just to add.

Notice that when we do abhyaas, we have one part of the mind doing abhyaas and the other part thinking about different thoughts. It is the other part that is indulged in worldly thoughts that we need to control. For this reason and to bring chardi kala in abhyaas, Bhai Sahib is suggesting to do Gurbani paath along with abhyaas. As per the humble experience of this insect, one should begin with doing Mool Mantra along with Abhyaas. It is much easier than doing Siri Sukhmani Sahib. Continue doing Abhyaas loudly and indulge the wandering mind primarily in abhyaas but if there is a part of the mind still wandering, use it to do easy paaths like Mool Mantra, Siri Jap jee Sahib, Siri Basant kee Vaar and ultimately Siri Sukhmani Sahib. Doing so definitely increases concentration and Anand of Abhyaas.

Daas,
Kulbir Singh

Guru rakha, thank you!

Puraatan Singh Baba Nidhan Singh Chugha, Moga



When in prison, even at old age Baba ji would do ishnan with a jug of water at 9pm and sit and Jap Naam and recite Gurbaani till 8am the following morning. This was the life of puraatan Gursikhs.

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Vista Wrote:
> When in prison, even at old age Baba ji would do
> ishnan with a jug of water at 9pm and sit and Jap
> Naam and recite Gurbaani till 8am the following
> morning. This was the life of puraatan Gursikhs.

so, out of curiosity, is staying up all night equivalent to waking up for amrit vela? i think it would be easier for me to do that than to wake up!

Hahaha !!

Bhenji that was interesting. Actually most of us would think like that - but actually what i find is that even if you start at 11pm or so thinking that you are fresh, you will start yawning badly around that time of Amritvela (1am-2am) or so and i also think this wont be suitable for us to carry out for long term due to jobs etc.I think its that period of Amritvela where Kaljug attacks the most to Gursikhs.


But the idea is not bad at all, if one thinks its being kind of impossible to get up in the morning at Amritvela it should be worth trying.

I dont think there is any problem in considering this as Amritvela if you are awake since last night 9-11pm. But i think we should do Ishnan during that period of Amritvela (as per Guru Raaam Dass's Shabad --- ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰੇ ਭਲਕੇ ਪਰਭਾਤੀ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਵੈ ॥). Also we should do our Nitnem PAATHs during that time as well (after mid night)

Bhul Chuk MAAF !!

Thanks for writing about Baba Nidhan Singh jee Chugga. I am sure, he must be fulfilling his obligation of doing ishnaan at Amritvela.

Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh jee admired the strong faith of Baba Nidhan Singh jee in one of his books. He writes that during the freedom movement, he was one of the most wanted person by police. Many freedom fighters advised him to change his appearance by tying his beard or dyeing it but Baba jee refused to do so. He had firm faith in Guru Sahib. He used to pass by police stops without being noticed by even those people who recognized him.

If someone could post details of his life, it would greatly benefit us all.

Kulbir Singh

Which book of Bhai Sahib was it which you quoted, which page, which topic please do this kirpa?

I believe, Bhai Sahib has referenced Bhai Nidhan Singh in the article "Sachiaa Daadhiaan".

Kulbir Singh

Waheguru, sorry i mean the part with doing naam abhiaas along with sukhmani sahib in surti...where has bhai sahib written about this? Still thanks for the reply.

Amritvela is when we have to wale between 1.00 and 5.00am.
We have to do Amritvela every single day.
On the first day you will be little bit sleepy but you will get
Use to.

If you do Amritvela every single day you will meet guru sahib
Very easily.

Daas,
Khalsaji.

KUlbir singh jeo what do mean by doing sukhmani sahib along with naam abhyas does th'is mean doing sukhmani sahib before naam abhyass? Please ans'wer''''''

gurus babiha Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> KUlbir singh jeo what do mean by doing sukhmani
> sahib along with naam abhyas does th'is mean doing
> sukhmani sahib before naam abhyass? Please
> ans'wer''''''

I think you have to jap naam from (rasna) and do sukhmani sahib inside the mind.

ਸਲੋਕੁ ਮਃ ੫ ॥
ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਆਰਾਧਣਾ ਜਿਹਵਾ ਜਪਿ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥
ਨੇਤ੍ਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੇਖਣਾ ਸ੍ਰਵਣੀ ਸੁਨਣਾ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਤੀ ਰਤਿਆ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਾਈਐ ਠਾਉ ॥
ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਏਹ ਵਥੁ ਦੇਇ ॥
ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਉਤਮ ਕਾਢੀਅਹਿ ਵਿਰਲੇ ਕੇਈ ਕੇਇ ॥੧॥

A Gurmukh had referenced the following pankatee to me when I told him I was unable to concentrate on naam in the morning.

How long should we do naam abhyaas at amrit vela?
Is there a minimum length of time that one must do abhyaas for?
I have heard from Gursikhs that we should do abhyaas for 2 and a half hours, why is this period of time preferable?

Why is amritvela so important?? - key ingredient of a Sikh

What are the best ways of getting up for amritvela?? - soon as your alarm goes off don't rationalize - or procasinate - just roll over out of bed.

And if you are up, how can you avoid falling asleep whilst doing amritvela?? - posture of how you sit - should be strictly straight no leaning against anything - with breath control while doing abhyaas or paath- Stopping for a 2 second tick at each danddee || natural pause in gurbani - enjoying the bliss - think of as if it's ur lsat day on earth - doiing abyaas - paat.

How long should we do naam abhyaas at amrit vela? as long as 2hrs and half hours plus - or build to it slowly
Is there a minimum length of time that one must do abhyaas for? whatever is comfortable to you - but you have duty in your life as an amirtdhari sikh to build it to the full 2.5 hours.

I have heard from Gursikhs that we should do abhyaas for 2 and a half hours, why is this period of time preferable? this is becasue of
Dasvandh (or Daswand) - Giving one tenth of your income (10%) is a practice of recognizing that every thing comes from God the Giver. One tenth of your income should be given back to God, the giver. This demonstrates your recognition that your income comes to you from God and therefore, your giving back one tenth to the Giver, demonstrates your faith and devotion this Giver. This giving is a seed. It is a seed of trust that actually has the effect of multiplying your income just as a seed sprouts and grows into more plants. It is a principle called tithing. Many religious groups do this and really prosper from the practice.

Another example of one tenth is... one tenth of your day (24 hours) is 2 1/2 hours. As Sikhs we have the practice of dedicating one tenth of our day, 2 1/2 hours (Amrit Vela) to devotion and meditation to set ourselves each day. As Guru Ram Das descibed it, rise before the coming of the dawn and bathe and meditae on God's Name and inspire others to do this.

Is it necessary to have cold water bath or Hot bath would suffice in this season of winter ?.Are there specific prescriptions of this.? can one beg Forgiveness if one is ,due to reasons, cannot take cold water bath.?

I am a student, so I tend to sleep late because of homework ..therefore I sometimes skip amritvela. Are there any tips that would help me get up in the morning, or as bhenjee before suggested staying up, and then do amritvela and then sleep.

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HPS
Is it necessary to have cold water bath or Hot bath would suffice in this season of winter ?.Are there specific prescriptions of this.?

Great Question!

According to BHai Nand Lal Jis rehatnama one is a tankhiya if they do not take a ishnaan using fresh ( cold water).
In addition, Prem Sumarg Granth states one should take a fresh ishnaan.

Prem Sumarg Granth does mention one can use warm ( stale) water when fresh water ( ਤਾਜ਼ਾ ਪਾਣੀ ) is not available.
ਜੋ ਕਦਾਂਚ ਦੇਹੀ ਨੂੰ ਤਾਜ਼ਾ ਪਾਣੀ ਮਾਫਕ ਨ ਹੋਈ , ਤਾਂ ਗਰਮ ਕਰ ਲੇਵੈ.
prem sumarg

Fresh water is regarded as first class water while water is regarded as second class. In the old days SInghs only used fresh water from rivers, sarovars, or wells. Warm water ( stale water ) was only used in circumstances where cold ( fresh) water was not available. For example, if Singhs were stuck in the jungle and fresh water was not available they would
use the stale water they already had to bathe.

Gurpartap Surya also mentions Guru Gobind SIngh Ji mentions one should only use stale water when fresh water is not available.

ਸੀਤਲ ਜਲ ਕੋ ਅੰਗੀਕਾਰੇ
ਜੇ ਨਹਿ ਸਕਤ ਤਪਤ ਕਰ ਬਾਰੇ
Gurpartap Surraya

The problem is we get intimadated by the words COLD WATER. We need to think in terms of "fresh water" not cold water. Notice how Prem Sumarg mentions fresh water ਤਾਜ਼ਾ ਪਾਣੀ while Gurparta Suraya mention Cool ( calm) water ਸੀਤਲ ਜਲ . When we bathe in Guru Ram Das sarovar the body emerges in shant ( sheetl). According to Bhai Randhir SIngh reciting bani while taking a shower during amirt vela in equivallent to take ishnaan at Ram Das Sarovar. Instead of saying cold shower Bhai Sahib refers to it as Amrit Ishnaan. Try to think of Ishnaan in Gurmat terms and it will seem less intimidating. If you had a choice to bathe in Harmandir Sahib or hot water which one would you chose?

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can one beg Forgiveness if one is ,due to reasons, cannot take cold water bath.

When there is a weakness in rehat it means we have not fully given our body, mind, and wealth to Guru Sahib. The only way to make up for this is to increase our giving of man, tan and dhan. Hence one can do the following things :

1) increase dasvand to the panth
2) increase time spent in bani ( ex . recite japji sahib ten times a day)
3. Johria seva, other physical seva of sangat

Traditionally this was done for 40 days and during this period of penance one would develop stronger disciple; thus, making it more easier to follow previouis rehat which was difficult.

When I first got into Sikhi cold showers were extremely difficult for me since my body is not use to coldness. But the more amrit vela sangat programs I went to the more easier FRESH showers became. Khula Ishnaan is the best ishnaan and is most in accordance to Gurmat Maryada.

Hps jeeo - rehatnama Bhai Chaumpa Singh Jee states about bathing in cold water, secondly there are sceintific reasons too - water that is cold , the particles in such water are much stronger than they are when water is hot or heated as they property of water is weakend when it is boiled or hot. Bathing in cold water is shocking - but it is great shock to the mind and kind of makes it stop from it;'s wondering nature and there are many other reasons too, abyiasss and Gurbani concentration and focus is way way better after a cold shower - just try and see. One can beg forgiveness why not - but one must also endeavour to try and turn the water mixer towards cold slowly till accoustomed to cold only too- that is indivudual goal

Kaurageous jeeo - you're a sutdent try and change your schedule so you do amrtiwela instead the easy cheat which is to stay up and do it. I have tried all sorts - and once questioned this point in sanagt too. Due to the nature of my work i finish work at 11:00 pm - home by 12:00 am - i tried amirtvela at that time for one week, then another week sleep for 4-5 hours be up before 5;30 am from deep sleep - amritvela feeling is quite different and feels right. Skipping amritwela is a big NO and even the thought of it shouldn't be addressed- just do it as our father is waiting for us to be with him at amritvela and never to skip. hope it helps

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Hps jeeo - rehatnama Bhai Chaumpa Singh Jee states about bathing in cold water

Bhai Sahib I was unware that BHai Chaupa SIngh states cold water as well. COuld you provide
the exact quote?

ਠੰਡੇ ਪਾਣੀ ਜੋ ਨਹਿ ਨ੍ਹਾਵੈ ਬਿਨ ਜਪ ਪੜ੍ਹੇ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦ ਜੁ ਖਾਵੈ ॥

Those who do not take their morning bath in cold water and those who eat before their Nitnem infringe the Rehat.

Rehatnama Bhai Nand Laal Jee