Once, a Sikh named Bhai Lal Singh arrived at the court of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, presenting a meticulously crafted shield. He had spent considerable time and effort creating it, claiming it was so strong that no bullet could pierce it. The court was filled with admiration for the shield, and even Guru Gobind Singh Ji expressed happiness upon seeing it. However, as the praises poured in, Bhai Lal Singh grew arrogant. He proudly declared, “My shield is so strong that no bullet can penetrate it.”
Guru Gobind Singh Ji, with a calm smile, said, “Tomorrow, we will test this shield.” Bhai Lal Singh agreed, but as he left the court, he realized the gravity of his mistake. He thought, “Guru Ji is a great warrior, and there is no greater Guru than him. How can my shield withstand his test?” Overwhelmed with regret, he returned home and shared his dilemma with his friends. They advised him to seek Guru Sahib’s blessings and pray for guidance.
Bhai Lal Singh prepared Karah Prasad, distributed it to the congregation, and spent the entire night in prayer. The next day, he returned to Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s court with humility. After the kirtan, Guru Sahib asked Bhai Lal Singh to prepare for the shield’s test. However, unlike the previous day, Bhai Lal Singh humbly declined the challenge. He said, “Guru Ji, I have realized my mistake. I apologize for my arrogance.”
Guru Gobind Singh Ji smiled and instructed Bhai Alam Singh to test the shield. Bhai Lal Singh stood with the shield, meditating on the Satguru. Bhai Alam Singh fired three times, but each bullet missed the shield. Then, Guru Gobind Singh Ji took aim but did not fire. He asked, “Have you been repairing the shield all night?” Bhai Lal Singh fell at the Guru’s feet and confessed everything.
Guru Sahib blessed him and said, “There is no shield that cannot be broken, but God Himself protects those who seek refuge in Him. Never let arrogance cloud your heart in the future.” Through this incident, Guru Gobind Singh Ji not only preserved Bhai Lal Singh’s honor but also imparted a profound lesson: arrogance is man’s greatest enemy, while humility and devotion to the True Guru lead to true success.
This story reminds us to always remain humble and seek refuge in God, for true victory lies in living a life of grace and humility.
Sat Sri Akal.
