26 research outputs found
Book Review: "Mystic Echoes: Stories Rooted in Sikh Spiritual Realms" (Book Author: Dr. Devinder Pal Singh; Book Reviewer: Prof. Hardev Singh Virk)
No full textDr. Devinder Pal (DP) Singh joined the Physics Department in 1983 as an Ad-hoc Lecturer to teach Physics and complete his doctorate degree in Physics (Acoustics). I found him as a dedicated teacher and researcher. Upon moving to Canada as an immigrant, he initiated a new venture, the “Center for Understanding Sikhism”. A similar organization, the “Institute for Understanding Sikhism,” was established in 1999 by Dr. D. S. Chahal in Montreal. I was perplexed as to why a hardcore physicist was meddling in Sikhism. My curiosity was satisfied after reviewing his book, “Science and Sikhism: Conflict or Coherence.” I started rating him as one of the greatest exponents of Sikhism (Sikhi) in the modern age.
The Foreword “A Sacred Mirror: Seeing Ourselves Through Sikh Narratives” is by Bhai Harbans Lal, Ph.D., D. Litt (Hons). Bhai Lal appreciates the technique used by D. P. Singh: “It brings the living essence of Gurbani into our day-to-day existence. These are not abstract theological exercises, nor are they simply nostalgic tales of rural life. Instead, they are powerful spiritual parables, immersive narratives that reveal how the universal truths embedded in Sikh teachings manifest in the hearts, struggles, and transformations of everyday people”.
The author introduces his UNIQUE work in the Preface “Bridging the Temporal and the Timeless” as follows: “The stories in Mystic Echoes: Stories Rooted in Sikh Spiritual Realms emerge from the convergence of profound spiritual reflection, lived experience, and the enduring resonance of Sikh philosophy. They are not merely works of fiction, but narrative expressions of spiritual truths rooted in the teachings of the Sikh Gurus”. Further, D. P. Singh explains the relevance and importance of chosen topics: “Each story in Mystic Echoes is an attempt to explore a specific spiritual theme from within the Sikh tradition: Naam (Divine Name), Hukam (Divine Order), Haumai (Ego), Maya (Worldly Illusion), Raza (Divine Will), Sunn (Primal Void), Sahaj (Equilibrium), Bhaau and Bhae (Devotional Love and Reverent Fear), Nadar (Grace), Wismad (Wondrous Bliss), Anhad Naad (Unstruck Melody), Chautha Pad (Fourth State), Dasam Duar (Tenth Gate), Panj Tat (Five classical elements), and Daya (Compassion) among others
Book Review: "Mystic Echoes: Stories Rooted in Sikh Spiritual Realms" (Book Author: Dr. Devinder Pal Singh; Book Reviewer: Prof. Hardev Singh Virk)
No full textDr. Devinder Pal (DP) Singh joined the Physics Department in 1983 as an Ad-hoc Lecturer to teach Physics and complete his doctorate degree in Physics (Acoustics). I found him as a dedicated teacher and researcher. Upon moving to Canada as an immigrant, he initiated a new venture, the “Center for Understanding Sikhism”. A similar organization, the “Institute for Understanding Sikhism,” was established in 1999 by Dr. D. S. Chahal in Montreal. I was perplexed as to why a hardcore physicist was meddling in Sikhism. My curiosity was satisfied after reviewing his book, “Science and Sikhism: Conflict or Coherence.” I started rating him as one of the greatest exponents of Sikhism (Sikhi) in the modern age.
The Foreword “A Sacred Mirror: Seeing Ourselves Through Sikh Narratives” is by Bhai Harbans Lal, Ph.D., D. Litt (Hons). Bhai Lal appreciates the technique used by D. P. Singh: “It brings the living essence of Gurbani into our day-to-day existence. These are not abstract theological exercises, nor are they simply nostalgic tales of rural life. Instead, they are powerful spiritual parables, immersive narratives that reveal how the universal truths embedded in Sikh teachings manifest in the hearts, struggles, and transformations of everyday people”.
The author introduces his UNIQUE work in the Preface “Bridging the Temporal and the Timeless” as follows: “The stories in Mystic Echoes: Stories Rooted in Sikh Spiritual Realms emerge from the convergence of profound spiritual reflection, lived experience, and the enduring resonance of Sikh philosophy. They are not merely works of fiction, but narrative expressions of spiritual truths rooted in the teachings of the Sikh Gurus”. Further, D. P. Singh explains the relevance and importance of chosen topics: “Each story in Mystic Echoes is an attempt to explore a specific spiritual theme from within the Sikh tradition: Naam (Divine Name), Hukam (Divine Order), Haumai (Ego), Maya (Worldly Illusion), Raza (Divine Will), Sunn (Primal Void), Sahaj (Equilibrium), Bhaau and Bhae (Devotional Love and Reverent Fear), Nadar (Grace), Wismad (Wondrous Bliss), Anhad Naad (Unstruck Melody), Chautha Pad (Fourth State), Dasam Duar (Tenth Gate), Panj Tat (Five classical elements), and Daya (Compassion) among others
Professor Puran Singh: Scientist, Poet and Philosopher
No full textProfessor Puran Singh, a unique synthesis of a poet, philosopher and scientist, rose like a celestial star on the firmament of modern Indian literature. The many splendored personality of this great chemist, mystic poet, visionary and interpreter of the Sikh cultural consciousness still beckons scholars to explore the extent of his vision in various fields. After a splendid in-depth study of the Life and Work of Puran Singh, Dr. Hardev Singh Virk has made a successful attempt to unravel the persona of this multi-dimensional genius in his book titled 'Professor Puran Singh - Scientist, Poet and Philosopher.'
The book is an anthology of 11 essays - 7 in English and 4 in Punjabi. In the 'Introduction to the book, the author traces a brief history of the kindling of his interest in the 'Life and Works of Puran Singh.' Then he articulates the purpose of the book to elaborate the ideas of this eminent scholar through different mediums to reach a wider audience. Dr. Virk stresses that poetic and other literary works of Puran Singh are of International standards and worth a Nobel Prize in literature. Still, sadly these works have not been adequately projected at the world forum
Understanding Anand - A Book Review (Book Author: Dr. Karminder Singh Dhillon)
No full textDr. Karminder Singh Dhillon is a much-acclaimed theologian, a renowned civil servant, a prolific writer and a profound
scholar of comparative religious studies. Born in 1960 at Teluk Anson, Perak, Malaysia, he retired after 32 years long
professional career in the Malaysian Civil Service. His incisive articles on Sikh theology have been regularly published in
various international journals. Currently serving as Joint Editor for the Sikh Bulletin, USA, he, with his exceptional writing style, has established himself as an eminent exponent of the Sikh doctrines. In addition, he has published about one dozen books on various aspects of Sikhi.
Dr. Dhillon’s book 'Understanding Anand' explores the Spirituality of Bliss as outlined in 'Anand,' a composition by Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, and enshrined in Sri Guru Granth Sahib (SGGS) on pages 917-922, in Ramkali Raag. He emphasizes that Gurbani advocates a spirituality of Fearlessness and Contentment leading to Anand (bliss and Joy). He laments that our clergy is intent on promoting the Spirituality of Fear and the Spirituality of Asking, which is the antithesis of what Gurbani stands for. He enunciates that Gurbani's spiritually brilliant and divinely genius messages lead to Vigaas, the Spirituality of Bliss and Joy (Anand). In 'Foreword' of the book, Gyani Jarnail Singh Arshi points out that the translation methodology adopted by the author makes the messages of Anand hymns free from literal translation trends as well as snatan, vedic and yogic slants. The book includes three 'Introductory Essays,' i.e. (i)The Spirituality of Anand, (ii) The Methodology of This Book, and (iii) How to Read This Book. The book's last section elaborates on the Anand composition
Understanding Anand - A Book Review (Book Author: Dr. Karminder Singh Dhillon)
No full textDr. Karminder Singh Dhillon is a much-acclaimed theologian, a renowned civil servant, a prolific writer and a profound
scholar of comparative religious studies. Born in 1960 at Teluk Anson, Perak, Malaysia, he retired after 32 years long
professional career in the Malaysian Civil Service. His incisive articles on Sikh theology have been regularly published in
various international journals. Currently serving as Joint Editor for the Sikh Bulletin, USA, he, with his exceptional writing style, has established himself as an eminent exponent of the Sikh doctrines. In addition, he has published about one dozen books on various aspects of Sikhi.
Dr. Dhillon’s book 'Understanding Anand' explores the Spirituality of Bliss as outlined in 'Anand,' a composition by Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, and enshrined in Sri Guru Granth Sahib (SGGS) on pages 917-922, in Ramkali Raag. He emphasizes that Gurbani advocates a spirituality of Fearlessness and Contentment leading to Anand (bliss and Joy). He laments that our clergy is intent on promoting the Spirituality of Fear and the Spirituality of Asking, which is the antithesis of what Gurbani stands for. He enunciates that Gurbani's spiritually brilliant and divinely genius messages lead to Vigaas, the Spirituality of Bliss and Joy (Anand). In 'Foreword' of the book, Gyani Jarnail Singh Arshi points out that the translation methodology adopted by the author makes the messages of Anand hymns free from literal translation trends as well as snatan, vedic and yogic slants. The book includes three 'Introductory Essays,' i.e. (i)The Spirituality of Anand, (ii) The Methodology of This Book, and (iii) How to Read This Book. The book's last section elaborates on the Anand composition
My Journey in Science (Autobiography of An Indian Scientist): Book Review
No full textAutobiographical books of Punjabi Scientists are a rare genre. "My Journey In Science" by internationally acclaimed scientist Professor Hardev Singh Virk is a welcome addition to this category. Prof. Hardev Singh Virk, a multifaceted personality, is an eminent Physicist, an ardent researcher, an eloquent orator, a passionate poet, and a globe trotter. In addition, he is a devout Sikh, a renowned Sikh theologian, and a prolific writer in many areas of Science, Religion, and Literature.
On reading “Up Against Odds”, the autobiography of Piara Singh Gill, a world-famous Physicist, Professor Virk was motivated to write his autobiography “Mera Jeevan Safar” in Punjabi. Later, the book was transliterated in Shahmukhi and published as an e-book by the Academy of Punjab in North America. In addition, for the benefit of young people, who are born and brought up in the West, and are not well versed in the Punjabi language, Professor Virk took the arduous task of publishing his autobiography in English. His autobiography titled "My Journey In Science" with a sub-title: "Autobiography of an Indian Scientist" contains a lot more detail about his scientific endeavors, as compared to its Punjabi version.
The purpose of "My Journey In Science" is to inspire the younger generation to pursue their chosen fields of study, with full dedication against all odds. This ensues from the fact that he has dedicated it to his grandchildren, who inspired him to write this book. Additionally, the author uses the forum to express his extreme gratitude to all the mothers, the teachers, and the seekers of Truth, who inspired him in his life journey, by dedicating it to them as well
My Journey in Science (Autobiography of An Indian Scientist): Book Review
No full textAutobiographical books of Punjabi Scientists are a rare genre. "My Journey In Science" by internationally acclaimed scientist Professor Hardev Singh Virk is a welcome addition to this category. Prof. Hardev Singh Virk, a multifaceted personality, is an eminent Physicist, an ardent researcher, an eloquent orator, a passionate poet, and a globe trotter. In addition, he is a devout Sikh, a renowned Sikh theologian, and a prolific writer in many areas of Science, Religion, and Literature.
On reading “Up Against Odds”, the autobiography of Piara Singh Gill, a world-famous Physicist, Professor Virk was motivated to write his autobiography “Mera Jeevan Safar” in Punjabi. Later, the book was transliterated in Shahmukhi and published as an e-book by the Academy of Punjab in North America. In addition, for the benefit of young people, who are born and brought up in the West, and are not well versed in the Punjabi language, Professor Virk took the arduous task of publishing his autobiography in English. His autobiography titled "My Journey In Science" with a sub-title: "Autobiography of an Indian Scientist" contains a lot more detail about his scientific endeavors, as compared to its Punjabi version.
The purpose of "My Journey In Science" is to inspire the younger generation to pursue their chosen fields of study, with full dedication against all odds. This ensues from the fact that he has dedicated it to his grandchildren, who inspired him to write this book. Additionally, the author uses the forum to express his extreme gratitude to all the mothers, the teachers, and the seekers of Truth, who inspired him in his life journey, by dedicating it to them as well
The Tragedy of Komagata Maru (The Sikh Challenge to Canadian Immigration Politics:1897-1920)
No full textDr. Puran Singh, the author of The Tragedy of Komagata Maru, is a distinguished writer and journalist based in Vancouver, B.C., since 1976. Dr. Puran Singh’s expertise is exceptionally well-suited to the topic of The Tragedy of Komagata Maru due to his extensive academic background, professional experience, and personal involvement in the Sikh community. His dual master’s degrees in history and political science, along with his Ph.D., provide him with a deep understanding of historical events and political dynamics, both of which are crucial for analyzing the Komagata Maru incident and its implications.His professional experience as a Lecturer in Political Science has equipped him with the skills to critically evaluate and explain complex sociopolitical issues. Furthermore, his long tenure as a Library Assistant at the Asian Library and Library Processing Center at the University of British Columbia demonstrates his proficiency in research and access to a wealth of academic resources, which is essential for conducting thorough historical research
The Tragedy of Komagata Maru (The Sikh Challenge to Canadian Immigration Politics:1897-1920)
No full textDr. Puran Singh, the author of The Tragedy of Komagata Maru, is a distinguished writer and journalist based in Vancouver, B.C., since 1976. Dr. Puran Singh’s expertise is exceptionally well-suited to the topic of The Tragedy of Komagata Maru due to his extensive academic background, professional experience, and personal involvement in the Sikh community. His dual master’s degrees in history and political science, along with his Ph.D., provide him with a deep understanding of historical events and political dynamics, both of which are crucial for analyzing the Komagata Maru incident and its implications.His professional experience as a Lecturer in Political Science has equipped him with the skills to critically evaluate and explain complex sociopolitical issues. Furthermore, his long tenure as a Library Assistant at the Asian Library and Library Processing Center at the University of British Columbia demonstrates his proficiency in research and access to a wealth of academic resources, which is essential for conducting thorough historical research
Provision of pharmaceutical care in patients with limited English proficiency: preliminary findings
No full textObjective: Overcoming language and cultural barriers is becoming ever challenging for pharmacists as the patient population grows more ethnically diverse. To evaluate the current practices used by the pharmacists for communicating with patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) and to assess pharmacists’ knowledge of, attitude toward, and satisfaction with accessing available services for supporting LEPs patients within their current practice settings. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five pharmacists employed in pharmacies representing multiple practice settings Queensland, Australia. Thematic analysis was primarily informed by the general inductive approach. NVivo software (QSR International Pty Ltd.) was used to manage the data. Findings: Three interlinked themes emerged from the analysis of interview data: (1) Barriers to the provision of pharmaceutical care, (2) Strategies employed in dealing with LEP patients, and (3) Lack of knowledge about existing services. Pharmacists recognized their lack of skills in communicating with LEP patients to have potential negative consequences for the patient and discussed these in terms of uncertainty around eliciting patient information and the patient’s understanding of their instructions and or advice. Current strategies were inconsistent and challenging for LEP patient care. While the use of informal interpreters was common, a significant degree of uncertainty surrounded their actual competency in conveying the core message. Conclusion: The present study highlights a significant gap in the provision of pharmaceutical care in patients with LEP. Strategies are needed to facilitate quality use of medicines among this patient group
