Sikh Religion Guru Gobind Singh, Akal Takht, Amritsar, and the Adi Granth

Adi Granth: Guru Granth Sahib, which is also known as Adi Granth is the principal religious writing of Sikhism. It is respectfully considered by Sikhs as the eternal Guru that contains spiritual wisdom and directions of the Sikh Gurus. Adi Granth was compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, who was the fifth guru in 1604. It has hymns, prayers and writings done by the gurus of sikhs, saints, enlightened beings from other faiths such as Islam and Hinduism. The book is written in Gurmukhi script and divided into sections called Ragas which are based on different musical modes to facilitate spiritual devotion. The Sikhs hold this holy scripture with utmost respect and it remains one of their most important practices including Satsang (congregational worship) and Nam Japna (individual meditation).

Akal Takht: The Akal Takht is one of the five seats of authority of Sikhism. Akal means Immortal and Takhat means Throne, so Akal Takhat means ‘Throne of The Immortal’. It is situated in Amritsar, Punjab next to Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple) which is a premier shrine for Sikhs all over the world. This spiritual and temporal seat was established by Guru Hargobind Sahib, sixth master, back in 1606 to symbolize his sovereign authority as well as justice system. It acts as a platform where social, political and religious issues concerning Sikhs can be discussed upon. Similarly, it has powers to issue hukumnamas on matters of religious significance and excommunicate those who violate Sikh principles or commit serious transgressions. It is a temporal authority within the faith existing side by side with spiritual power vested in the Guru Granth Sahib–Sikhi’s holy scripture–as embodied in the supreme seat of Sikh authority- the Akaal Takhat or “Immortal Throne.”

Amritsar: Amritsar, the name meaning "Tank of Elixir," is a city in Punjab state of India and is of immense historical significance to the Sikhs. The spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism, it is also home to many important Sikh historical sites, most famous among them being Harmandir Sahib, also called as the Golden Temple. This Temple was built by Guru Arjan Devji, the 5th Sikh Guru in sixteenth century and it is the most sacred Gurdwara for Sikhs where millions of devotees and tourists land yearly. Amritsar is also where Khalsa Panth (the Order of Pure Ones) came into existence on Vaisakhi Day in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singhji who was tenth Sikh Guru. The Kirtan Sohila prayers are recited before a person goes to sleep at night in a typical Sikh household. It has rich history depicting the struggle, spirituality and loyalty towards their religion by these people.

Guru Gobind Singh: Guru Gobind Singh, originally referred to as Gobind Rai, was the initial Sikh Guru and a saint, warrior and poet. He became Guru at the age of nine after his father who was also a guru named Guru Tegh Bahadur. By establishing Khalsa Panth, the community of initiated Sikhs in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh played a central role in shaping Sikh identity. For both its righteousness and courage, he began with the first five members of the Khalsa by giving them Amrit (sacred nectar) and introducing them to Five Ks (articles of faith). As such, various hymns and writings which are incorporated in Guru Granth Sahib were written by him. In a period marked by severe persecution and war, he led Sikhs encouraging them to remain defiant against their beliefs even under extreme adversity. His teachings continue to be an inspiration for Sikhs worldwide with great emphasis on bravery, equality as well as love for God.

Guru Gobind Singh’s Legacy: Guru Gobind Singh’s achievements are much more than just being a spiritual head for the Sikhs. He was a forward-looking leader who espoused fairness, impartiality and selflessness. His contribution to Sikhism and Indian society has been significant and lasting:

  • Establishment of the Khalsa: Guru Gobind Singh instituted Khalsa Panth on April 13, 1699 at Vaisakhi festival held in Anandpur Sahib. This was the beginning of official membership into a movement that would unite martial and religious aspects under one community whose aim was the defence of righteousness and service to humanity. The qualities defining Khalsa include bravery, mercy, selflessness as demonstrated by what five beloved ones (Panj Pyare) did when they offered their heads before Guru Gobind Singhs received as first members of Khalsas.
  • Promotion of Equality: Guru Gobind Singh focused on equal rights for all humans irrespective of caste system or gender differences. He abolished the practice of castes among Sikhs and established Sangat (community congregation) and Pangat (equality in dining) where Sikhs from different backgrounds sit together and eat as equals.
  • Military Strategy: Guru Gobind Singh was a skilled warrior and military strategist, who defended the Sikh community against external threats and oppression. He fought many battles against the Mughal and other local rulers, who were trying to repress Sikhism. Even when his followers faced insurmountable odds, he instilled bravery in them to stand by their ideals and seek justice.
  • Literary Works: Guru Gobind Singh was a prolific writer and poet who wrote hymns, prayers, and philosophical works which are included in the Guru Granth Sahib. His writings express profound spiritual insights, ethical teachings, and devotion to the divine. The Zafarnama is one of such letters written to Aurangzeb showing his bravery as well as his commitment towards truthfulness.
  • Spiritual Lessons: Guru Gobind Singh’s spiritual teachings stress self-discipline meditation while focusing on godly things. He advised Sikhs to possess strong moral values, live virtuous lives as well as exhibit kindness and humility when serving others. The legacy of Guru gobind Singh still remains a source of inspiration to millions of Sikhs globally where they are encouraged to embrace Sikh values whilst pursuing social justice, equality and spiritual enlightenment.

Artistic and Cultural Contributions: Guru Gobind Singh made great artistic contributions to the world apart from being a spiritual leader and a fighter. He was a sponsor of arts and he also developed literature, martial art, and music among others in the Sikh community. During his reign, Sikh literature grew including hymns as well as poetry about Sikhism’s martial spirit. Guru Gobind Singh himself was an accomplished musician and poet who wrote songs that have been sung by Sikhs until now.

Guru Gobind Singh is also attributed for establishing Gatka which is known to be the Sikh way of fighting. This combat technique comprises different fighting methods that can be used with guns or without them with a great emphasis on agility, power, and self-control. Guru Gobind Singh realized that the Sikh community needed to be safeguarded using self-defense techniques along with military training against possible external aggression. Presently, Gatka serves as both artwork and martial practice that preserves Guru Gobind Singh’s legacy regarding military teachings.

Global Impact and Reverence: Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings and legacy have been transcendent of the geographical and cultural boundaries, resounding with a variety of people all over the world. Comes in several other countries, India commemorates Guru Gobind Singh’s birth anniversary (Gurpurab) through grand celebrations, religious events and charity works. His teachings about brotherhood of man, equality among people, and concern for human wellbeing still continue to influence those striving for spiritual enlightenment or social justice.

In addition, Guru Gobind Singh’s heritage has had an impact on various social and political movements that stand for human rights, religious liberties as well as social justice. His emphasis on individual sovereignty and collective responsibility towards upholding justice impartially is still applicable in contemporary discourses on democracy, governance and respect for humanity.

Guru Gobind Singh’s lasting effect is found in the various roles he played as a religious leader, soldier, writer and helper of artists and an image of self-sacrifice and martyrdom. His teachings serve as guidance to millions of Sikhs and other people who seek spiritual awakening, social equality or world unity. Sikhs are encouraged by Guru Gobind Singh’s life and message to keep truth, fairness, and kindness alive throughout their lives so that his tradition can live on for countless generations beyond now.

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Hindi (हिन्दी):
यं हि न व्यथयन्त्येते पुरुषं पुरुषर्षभ।
समदुःखसुखं धीरं सोऽमृतत्वाय कल्पते॥

English:
yaṁ hi na vyathayantyete puruṣhaṁ puruṣharṣhabha,
sama-duḥkha-sukhaṁ dhīraṁ so'mṛitatvāya kalpate.

Meaning (Hindi):
हे पुरुषोत्तम! जो धीर पुरुष दुःख सुख में समान रहता है, उसे यह सिद्ध हो जाता है कि वह अमरत्व को प्राप्त हो गया है।

Meaning (English):
O best of men (Arjuna), the person who is not disturbed by happiness and distress, and remains steady in both, becomes eligible for liberation and attains immortality.

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