Book II / XII

Shabd and Truth are synonymous

Shabd is nothing but Absolute and Abstract Truth in Its concret form. It is an eternal and unchanging principle of God's Power, working out His divine Will in all directions. Like Truth Itself, It was in the beginning where there was nothing else, It was the beginning of each cycle of creation and It shall exist forever and forever. 

Guru Nanak tells of It as follows:

The Word is the only symbol of Truth, and can be known and experienced through a perfect Master.

Guu Nanak, Basant Rag M1

Guru Amar Das and Guru Arjan say of It:

Bani or Shabd is Truth personified, oh love this Truth with all your heart and soul. 

Guru Amar Das, Sri Rag M3

Listen, oh friend, to the all-pervading Voice of God, the Master has given you all True Word of God. 

Guru Arjan, Vadhans M5