The Guru Granth Sahib, regarded as the living guru, lies at the foundation of Sikhism. For millions of Sikhs around the world, it is more than a religious text – it is a sacred scripture, a source of spiritual wisdom and support, and a symbol of ultimate connection with the One.
History & Compilation
Begun in the year 1604 AD, the Guru Granth Sahib was originally called, “the Adi Granth.” It was compiled by Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the 5th Guru of Sikhism. Realizing the need to preserve the divine teachings, Guru Arjan Dev Ji began the process of gathering hymns, songs, and spiritual writings of the ten Sikh Gurus, and included contributions from Hindu and Muslim saints.
This process of inclusion allows the Guru Granth Sahib to be a true spiritual masterpiece that reaches all individuals at all times, cultures and religions. The Guru Granth Sahib reminds readers of the universality of divine wisdom, and the path to divine guidance exists beyond the boundaries of caste, creed, or religion.
The Living Guru
For Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib is not merely considered a book of holy scriptures; it is literally the eternal Guru. The Guru Granth Sahib contains the spirit, wisdom, and guidance of the Sikh Gurus.
- A raised platform (Palki Sahib), representing the utmost respect, is provided for the Guru Granth Sahib to rest upon, in every gurdwara.
- As devotees approach the Guru Granth Sahib, they bow down to it, just like they would when they see a living Guru.
- From the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhs learn how to seek spiritual guidance, moral guidance, and inner peace.
This belief increases the sacredness of the Guru Granth Sahib as a living presence, constantly guiding Sikhs on their path of truth and righteousness.
Principles & Philosophy
The Guru Granth Sahib contains divine wisdom on life, spirituality, and human behavior. A few of the main teachings are:
- Oneness of God – There is only one formless God—eternal, absolute—the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.
- Equality – All humans are equal, and Sikhism does not differentiate based on caste, creed, gender, or any other social status.
- Seva (Selfless Service) – Selfless service to humanity is a prestige value, such as Langar (community kitchen), which serves free meals to anyone.
- Simran (Meditation) – Remembering God’s Name (Naam Simran), succumbing to spiritual awakening and liberation.
- Humility – A Sikh is called to live with humility, seeing the greatness of the Creator.
- Contentment – The true peaceful state of mind comes from within not from anything you own.
In summary, these teachings make the Guru Granth Sahib not merely a spiritual guide — but also a practical manual on living a life of righteousness.
Singing & Music
The Guru Granth Sahib is written in the Gurmukhi script. The hymns, called Gurbani, are chanted and sung with devotion.
- The practice of devotional singing is called Kirtan. Kirtan consists of hymns that are sung in certain classical ragas (musical modes).
- This blend of poetry and musicality creates a spiritual ambiance that resonates with the spirit of every listener.
Kirtan is not just music, it’s a meditative practice which brings the devotee closer to God.
Rituals & Worship
- The Guru Granth Sahib is treated with utmost respect and reverence at every gurdwara.
- People listen to Gurbani, pray, and meditate in its presence.
- For Sikhs, it is involved in all life events, including getting married, naming ceremonies, and even daily worship.
The rituals surrounding the Guru Granth Sahib signify devotion, humility, and a great deal of respect.
Universal Message
The wisdom embodied in the Guru Granth Sahib transcends the limits of Sikhism. The everlasting principles of love, oneness, equality, and devotion to God can be incorporated and practiced by individuals of any faith.
The Guru Granth teaches us that the essence of spirituality is not about rituals alone, but, rather, a life of humility, compassion, and service to humanity.
Conclusion
The Guru Granth Sahib is more than a scripture; it is the Eternal Guru, a light that guides Sikhs and all of humanity toward truth, peace, and oneness with the divine.
As a source of inspiration, the Guru Granth Sahib continues to influence countless people across the world, providing a universal message of love, equality, and devotion to God. Within Siks’ sacred verses of the Guru Granth Sahib live words, but also the presence of their Guru that leads them on a clearly defined path of righteousness, humility, and spiritual completeness.
