Story Summary
Discover the transformative tale of Guru Nanak and Sajjan the Thief. Learn how a divine hymn turned a deceptive criminal into a devoted man of God.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, accompanied by his companion Bhai Mardana, once reached the town of Tulamba. There lived a man named Sajjan, who maintained a guest house and a place of worship for both Hindus and Muslims. To the public, Sajjan appeared as a devout and charitable man, but in reality, he was a cold-hearted thug who murdered unsuspecting travelers to steal their belongings. When the Guru arrived, Sajjan welcomed them warmly, secretly planning their demise that night. However, the Guru saw through his deceit. Instead of sleeping, Nanak began to sing a divine hymn: 'Bronze is bright and shiny, but when it is rubbed, its blackness appears. Wash it as much as you like, its impurity will not go.' The words pierced Sajjan’s heart like an arrow. He realized the Guru was speaking of his soul—outwardly pious but inwardly dark. Overwhelmed by guilt, Sajjan fell at the Guru’s feet, confessed his crimes, and begged for forgiveness. Guru Nanak told him that true repentance involves returning stolen goods and serving the poor. Sajjan transformed his life completely, becoming a devoted follower and establishing a center for spiritual service.
The Moral
True spirituality lies in inner purity and honest living, rather than outward displays of piety. No person is beyond redemption if they sincerely repent and commit to a life of service.
“Bronze is bright and shiny, but when it is rubbed, its blackness appears.”
Fun Fact
The inn that Sajjan managed and later converted is often cited as the first 'Dharamsala' in history, a precursor to the modern Gurdwara.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Guru Nanak and Sajjan the Thief?
The story teaches that outward appearances of holiness are meaningless without inner purity. It also emphasizes that even the greatest sinners can find redemption through sincere repentance and honest living.
Who was Sajjan in the Sikh tradition?
Sajjan was a deceptive innkeeper in Tulamba who pretended to be a saintly man but actually robbed and killed travelers. After meeting Guru Nanak, he became a reformed devotee and established a center for spiritual learning.
What did Guru Nanak say to Sajjan?
Guru Nanak sang a hymn about bronze vessels being shiny on the outside but black on the inside. He told Sajjan that his sins could only be washed away by confessing, returning stolen goods, and serving others.
What does the name 'Sajjan' mean?
In Punjabi and Hindi, 'Sajjan' means a gentleman, a friend, or a good person. The story highlights the irony of his name before his transformation into a truly good person.
Where did the meeting between Guru Nanak and Sajjan take place?
The meeting occurred in Tulamba, which is located in present-day Pakistan. This site later became a place of historical significance in the Sikh tradition.
How did Sajjan change his life after meeting Guru Nanak?
Sajjan confessed all his crimes, gave away his ill-gotten wealth to the poor, and converted his house into a Dharamsala. He spent the rest of his life practicing the Guru’s teachings of meditation and service.