Learnings from Sukhmani Sahib

The Sanctuary of Naam - Shlok 20

Finding Refuge in the Sanctuary of the Naam

In the journey of the soul, there comes a time when the endless wandering must cease. The search for meaning, for belonging, for something that finally stills the restless mind—it all leads to the same sanctuary: the refuge of the Naam.

In this meditation, Sanctuary of the Naam, we ground ourselves in the wisdom of Sukhmani Sahib, specifically Shlok 20 and the first stanza of the 20th Ashtapadi. If you let it, this meditation reveals how the act of asking—of surrendering—opens the door to the most precious gift: the remembrance of Hari’s Name.

Throughout this practice, I reflect on the following shabads, each of which deepens our understanding of what it means to return, to surrender, and to rest in the shelter of the Divine.

Shabads for Reflection:

1. Phirat Phirat Prabh Aaya – After wandering and wandering, one comes to the sanctuary of the Divine.
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2. Haun Aaya Dooron Chal Kai – I have traveled from afar, seeking to merge into You.
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3. Jaachak Jan Jaachai Prabh Daan – Like a beggar, I ask for the gift of Your Name.
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4. Thakur Tum Sarnai Aaya – I have come to Your sanctuary, O Master.
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5. Sukhmani Sukh Amrit Prabh Naam – The Name of the Divine is the nectar of peace.
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6. Kirat Karam Ke Veechhare - I am separated from you because of my actions. Please show Your Mercy, and unite us with Yourself, Lord.
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7. Chaar Padaarath Jeko Mange - If you desire all the four things, serve the saints. 
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Each of these sacred verses offers a path back to stillness, a way to center the heart in the sweetness of Naam. Through our meditation, we step into this sanctuary together—letting go of our wandering, our searching, and simply resting in the One who has been waiting for us all along.