The Eternal Guru of the Sikhs
Shree Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is not just a scripture; it is the eternal living embodiment of the Sikh Gurus’ divine light and wisdom. It is a spiritual treasure that encapsulates centuries of profound insight, devotion, and the oneness of humanity under Waheguru (God). Compiled originally as Adi Granth by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru, it was a monumental effort of love and devotion to preserve the true teachings of Sikhism.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji collected hymns from the first four Gurus and added his own, along with selected verses from enlightened souls of other faiths like Bhagat Kabir Ji, Bhagat Ravidas Ji, Bhagat Namdev Ji, and Sheikh Farid Ji, among others. This compilation upheld the Sikh principle of universal truth, emphasizing that the Divine resides beyond caste, creed, or religion. The Adi Granth was enshrined at Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in 1604 and was placed on a sacred throne, with Baba Buddha Ji as its first Granthi (reader).
🔸A Child of Courage — Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
In 1708, before Guru Gobind Singh Ji left his mortal form at Hazur Sahib, Nanded, he bestowed the Guruship not upon a person, but upon the scripture itself — Guru Granth Sahib Ji. With his divine foresight and love for the Panth, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared:
“Sabh sikhan ko hukam hai, Guru maniyo Granth.”
“All Sikhs are hereby ordered to accept the Granth as their Guru.”
This was not just a transfer of authority, but a sacred transformation. The human line of Gurus ended, and the Shabad Guru — the Word — became the guide for eternity. By doing this, Guru Ji ensured that the Panth would remain unified, unchallenged by human corruption, and always spiritually centered.
🔸A Living Guru — Not a Mere Book.
Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is revered with the same respect and love as the living Gurus. It is seated on a throne (Palki Sahib), wrapped in royal cloths (Rumalas), fanned with a Chaur Sahib, and revered daily in Gurdwaras and Sikh homes around the world.
It is not merely read; it is consulted for divine guidance, known as Hukamnama, where a random verse is read as God’s message for the day. Sikhs turn to it in joy, sorrow, celebration, and decision-making.
The language used is primarily Gurmukhi, yet it contains words from Sanskrit, Persian, Arabic, Braj, and more — making it a linguistic and spiritual bridge across cultures.
🔸Spiritual Themes & Teachings.
Guru Granth Sahib Ji contains 1,430 Angs (pages) and includes compositions of 6 Gurus, 15 Bhagats, and 11 Bhatts and others. It is structured by Raga (musical measures) and follows a deeply meditative, poetic style. Key teachings include:
- Ek Onkar – There is only One God.
- Naam Simran – Constant remembrance of God’s name.
- Kirat Karo, Vand Chakko, Naam Japo – Honest living, sharing with others, and meditation.
- Seva – Selfless service.
- Equality of all – Beyond caste, gender, and religion.
🔸Global Significance & Timeless Message.
The Guru Granth Sahib Ji transcends religious boundaries. Its message is one of universal love, inner peace, humility, and the remembrance of the Divine. It does not speak in authority, but in affection. It does not condemn, but uplifts. That is why it remains relevant even today — not just for Sikhs, but for anyone seeking spiritual truth.
🔸Conclusion – The Light That Shall Never Fade
Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji stands as the final and eternal Guru, not limited by time or space. It is the heart of the Sikh faith, the soul of Gurdwaras, and the eternal voice of the Gurus. As long as the world seeks truth, compassion, and divinity —
The Guru Granth Sahib Ji shall illuminate the path.