Power of the Narayan Shabad
By MSS Hari Jiwan Singh and SS Sat Bachan Kaur Khalsa

In his Gurdwara lecture on February 6, 1987, the Siri Singh Sahib ji said of the Narayan shabd, "This shabd has a history behind it, power behind it. You have seen the success of other shabads, haven't you? Is there anybody here who questions that? This shabd participates into the valleys of those realms where no man has a voice. This Narayan shabd will restore the glory of the Khalsa." Recently, many in the sangat have felt the pressure of these days of transition. In response, many have turned to the technology which we love and trust. For the past 40 evenings, sadh sangats have been gathering and singing the Narayan shabd. As with many of our lifestyle customs, this practice came about in a mystical manner; it took many people's input, in the spontaneous but specific sequence necessary to transform a thought into a nightly ritual. The momentum was built by a few, and grew to include many as sangat members enjoyed the experience and the langar afterwards. We have experienced the manifestation of sukh sahej. The innocent prayer of a single devotee grew effortlessly into a worldwide sadh sangat meditation. What an experience it has been!

First, it's a very, very cozy time. The shabd is easy to learn; everyone to sings it easily after listening only a time or two. It's a beautiful sound current with a unique vibration. Sadh sangat members have commented on feelings of unity of purpose, kindred spirit and collective elevation. In fact, it's often hard to get people to leave the Gurdwara for the langar hall afterwards. Everyone stays to relax, share time and continue the group experience. Once everyone finally does leave, the harmonious identity is carried into the langar hall for a beautiful meal and conversation (sangat and pangat). It often takes conscious effort to leave the sadh sangat and go home for the night.

The shabd itself has been enlightening beyond expectation. As we chant Narayan, the vibration of the sound current begins to penetrate the whole body. The louder we sing, the more powerful the vibration. As we concentrate more, the vibration radiates with greater force. It becomes inculcated into the whole body. As the shabd is mastered, an experience of invincibility pervades the consciousness. Success walks in front, behind and on both sides of the practitioner. One is entranced by the melody. In fact, I find myself singing the shabd at various times during the day. I have to tell people who hear me and don?t have an affiliation with who I am, "Oh, don't pay attention to me; it's a song I need to sing." I can't stop. It is inevitable and involuntary. Wahe Guru.

What greater gift than to chant God's name without even trying. Thank God, Narayan is in charge and, by all accounts, doing a marvelous job. May He continue to bestow upon us His presence and protection with grace and humility as we carry out our mission. Wahe Guru ji ka Khalsa! Wahe Guru ji ki Fateh!