Benti Chaupai Sahib (popularly known as Chaupai Sahib) is an important and inspiring prayer (Bani) in Sikhism. It is traditionally linked to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This prayer is a humble request (Benti) to Waheguru for protection, strength, peace, and help in facing problems and challenges in life.
Millions of Sikhs around the world read Chaupai Sahib every day as part of their prayers, including Rehras Sahib and Nitnem. Reading Chaupai Sahib can bring peace, reduce fear, and help build strong faith in Waheguru.
Who Composed Chaupai Sahib?
Chaupai Sahib was composed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, who established the Khalsa Panth in 1699. It is included in Sri Charitropakhyan, which is part of the Dasam Granth Sahib.
According to traditional accounts, Chaupai Sahib was completed at Bibhaur Sahib, near the banks of the Sutlej River, around 1696 CE.
Structure and Poetic Meter
The word Chaupai refers to a type of Indian poetry written in four line verses. The prayer begins with the famous line:
“ਹਮਰੀ ਕਰੋ ਹਾਥ ਦੈ ਰੱਛਾ ॥ ਪੂਰਨ ਹੋਇ ਚਿਤ ਕੀ ਇੱਛਾ ॥”
Hamri karo hath dai rachha || Pooran hoe chit ki ichha ||
“Protect me with Your Own Hand, O Lord! Fulfill the sincere desires of my heart.”
The prayer has 29 main chaupais. It ends with the Aril, Swaya, and Dohra verses, which express the greatness and power of Waheguru.
Core Themes and Spiritual Significance
The main purpose of Chaupai Sahib is to let go of our ego and ask Waheguru for guidance and protection. Its main teachings include:
- Protection: Asking Waheguru to protect us from problems, negative thoughts, and difficulties in life.
- Courage and Fearlessness: Helping us overcome fear and worry by trusting in Waheguru.
- Inner Peace: Helping calm the mind and stay peaceful during difficult times.
- Spiritual Growth: Building faith and encouraging us to live a good and disciplined life.
Role in Daily Sikh Nitnem
Chaupai Sahib is an important part of daily Sikh prayer. It is read during:
- Rehras Sahib: Read daily in the evening as part of Sikh prayers.
- Amrit Sanchar: One of the five Banis read during the Sikh initiation ceremony.
- Daily Personal Prayer: Many people read it before a journey, exam, or important work to ask Waheguru for protection, peace, and strength.