Q: Is it ok to read English translations of Guru Granth Sahib?

A: The English translation is not the same as the original Gurbani. Reading translation will only help you understand the meaning. The translation can sometimes be inaccurate. In addition, reading Gurbani in original text is the best because it enables you to understand the message of the Guru without any third party involved. When you read Gurbani, it seems as if Guru is talking to you. It is very inspirational and has very deep meanings. Some of those meaning are very spiritual and cannot be translated in English. Furthermore, the translation expresses author’s opinions, interpretations and what Gurbani means to him. The actual and true meaning of Gurbani can be understood only by reading the original text.


Q: I do not know Gurmukhi and neither do I know Punjabi. How can I understand Guru Granth Sahib?

A: Take Punjabi classes in your local Gurdwara or ask your Sikh friends who knows how to read Gurbani. Work on Punjabi words and understand what they mean. Be familiar with the grammar. Learn new Punjabi words each day and then with each day passes you will begin to understand Punjabi.


Q: I am familiar with Punjabi but I still cannot understand the text in Guru Granth Sahib. What should I do?

A: The main problem people face is that they cannot understand the meanings of some words. Contact your local Gurdwara and ask Granthi Singh if he can give you some lessons or ask a friend who knows how to read Gurbani. Then try to learn the meanings. If there is no one in your area to teach you then try to buy books written by Damdami Taksal. “Gurbani Paath Darpan” is very nicely put together which teaches you how to pronounce Gurbani correctly and it also gives the meanings to complicated words. The best way to understand Gurbani is to practice reading it.




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