PUNJ KHAND:
Literally: Five realms/regions/stages.
In Japji Sahib (stanzas 34 to 37), Guru Nanak has explained five stages of human being’s spiritual journey towards self-realization. These five are:
In the first stage, Dharam Khand, man has come in this universe to play his part. He has social role to play. He must play his role sincerely. One must not try to escape one’s responsibilities.
In the second stage, Gian.Gyan Khand, one must be aware of the mystery of the Creator, His Creation and oneself. Knowledge here does not mean intellectual understanding but it means spiritual wisdom.
Third Khand (stage), Saram Khand, is the stage of modesty (humility). In this region, wisdom and intellect reign. There is the divineness of gods and the wise. By achieving knowledge, one should purge oneself of ego. One should meditate upon God’s name to escape from his ‘self’. This spiritual endeavour is the most difficult stage towards self-realization. On road to liberation this is the last human role.
The fourth stage is Karam Khand, i.e. Grace of God. When one has purged ego, God judges the performance of the human being. If one passes the test, then God blesses with His Grace.
The fifth (and the final) stage in this process is Sach Khand. This is the final stage of the evolution of human consciousness. It is the realm of truth. It is the stage of self-realization i.e. liberation.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)