Mithatt nivhi Nanka Gunn changiyayan tatt – Raag Assa – Ang 470

 Raag Assa

SGGS Ji Ang 470 – M.1.

Gurbani says on the Spiritual Path there are certain basic rules of sincerity and good conduct which must be observed.

One cannot for example use foul or vulgar language at all. If one does so whether by actual words or thinks using filthy words, he dirties his inner being and the Shabad/Bani can never lodge in such a filthy mind. You may read lots of Bani but if you indulge in vicious, vulgar talk, Bani will never settle into your consciousness.

At Angg 596, Guru Ji says,
“Gandhan vehn ratta hitkari Shabade suratt na aayi.”

In this Slok from Asa Ki Vaar, Guru Ji says two essential Gunn, mithatt (sweet, polite words) and nivhi (humility) are the Essence (tatt) of Godly Attributes (Gunn, Naam)
“Mithatt nivhi Nanka Gunn changiyayan tatt.”

Guru Ji starts by describing a tall, erect simmal tree. It grows to great height and its diameter is thick.
“Simmal rukh saraiecha att dhirag att much.”

Birds get attracted to the lofty tree but go away disappointed.
“Oye je aavhe aas kar jahe nirase kitt.”

The tree has tasteless fruits, it’s flowers are nauseating, and the leaves are useless.
“Falh fikke fulh bakk bakke kam na aavhe patt.”

Despite it’s size and lofty height, it does not contribute to birds or other creatures. Guru Ji is using the symbolism of the simmal tree to refer to persons who have power, and are respected in society, but do not help others who are less fortunate.

It is after this symbolism that Guru Ji says,
“Mithatt nivhi Nanaka Gunn changaiyan tatt.”

Shabad Viakhiya by Bhai Manjeet Singh Ji.