Nimrata
Part of a series on Sikh Beliefs |
Sikhism |
2. Three Pillars |
3. Five Evils |
4. Five Virtues |
Nimrata is a virtue that is vigorously promoted by Gurbani. The literal translation of this Punjabi word is "Humility", "Benevolence" or "Humbleness". This is a very important human quality that needs to be part of a Sikh's Mind Set and must accompany the Sikh at all times. The other four qualities in the arsenal are: Truth (Sat), Contentment (Santokh), Compassion (Daya) and Love (Pyar). These five qualities are essential to a Sikh and it is their duty to meditate and recite the Gurbani so that these virtues become a part of their personality.
The importance given to Humility in Sikhism can be seen from the following Shabads from SGGS:
SGGS Page 235 Full Shabad |
The fruit of humility is intuitive peace and pleasure. My True Guru has given me this gift. ((1)(Pause)) |
SGGS Page 273 Full Shabad |
The God-conscious being shall never perish. The God-conscious being is steeped in humility. |
SGGS Page 1084 Full Shabad |
First, is the Lord`s Praise; second, contentment; third, humility, and fourth, giving to charities. Fifth is to hold one`s desires in restraint. These are the five most sublime daily prayers. |
SGGS Page 1245 Full Shabad |
Lacking truth and humility, they shall not be appreciated in the world hereafter. |
SGGS Page 1384 Full Shabad |
Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra.
Wear these three robes, O sister, and you will captivate your Husband Lord. ((127)) |
SGGS Page 1397 Full Shabad |
The armor of self-restraint, truth, contentment and humility can never be pierced. |
SGGS Page 1411 Full Shabad |
He chants and meditates, and practices austerity and good deeds. He keeps to the Dharma, with faith, humility and contentment. |
And if you do not practise humility, truth, abstinence or self-discipline then what is in store for you:
SGGS Page 906 Full Shabad |
You do not practice truth, abstinence, self-discipline or humility; the ghost within your skeleton has turned to dry wood…..
When the Messenger of Death grabs you by your hair, you will be punished. You are unconscious, and have fallen into Death`s mouth. ((3)) |