Guru granth sahib

Definition

Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism, revered as the eternal Guru by Sikhs. This sacred text consists of hymns and writings that were composed by Sikh Gurus and other saints from different backgrounds, emphasizing the oneness of God, equality, and the importance of living a truthful life. It plays a crucial role in Sikh worship and reflects the core teachings of Sikhism, providing guidance for personal and spiritual development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Guru Granth Sahib was compiled by Guru Arjan, the fifth Guru, in 1604, and it contains hymns from the first five Gurus along with writings from other saints.
2. Sikhs treat the Guru Granth Sahib with great reverence, often placing it on a raised platform in Gurdwaras and bowing before it during worship.
3. The scripture is written in Gurmukhi script and includes compositions in several languages such as Punjabi, Hindi, Persian, and Braj Bhasha.
4. Guru Granth Sahib serves as a guide for ethical living, addressing social issues like caste discrimination and encouraging community service.
5. The scripture is recited daily by Sikhs in personal devotion and during communal worship, reinforcing its role as a central element in Sikh religious life.

Review Questions

• How does the Guru Granth Sahib reflect the core teachings of Sikhism?
  • The Guru Granth Sahib reflects core teachings of Sikhism through its emphasis on the oneness of God, equality among all people, and living a truthful life. The hymns within it encourage followers to engage in selfless service, reject social hierarchies such as caste distinctions, and focus on spiritual growth. This makes it not just a text for worship but a practical guide for everyday living aligned with Sikh values.
• In what ways is the Guru Granth Sahib integral to Sikh worship practices?
  • The Guru Granth Sahib is integral to Sikh worship practices as it serves as the focal point during congregational prayers in Gurdwaras. Sikhs listen to recitations of Gurbani from the scripture during services, which fosters a sense of community and shared spirituality. Additionally, rituals like bowing before the scripture highlight its revered status as the eternal Guru, guiding followers through its teachings.
• Evaluate the significance of the Guru Granth Sahib's compilation and its impact on Sikh identity.
  • The compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib by Guru Arjan marked a pivotal moment in Sikh history, establishing a single authoritative text that unified diverse teachings into one coherent scripture. This consolidation helped solidify Sikh identity by promoting shared beliefs and practices among followers. The reverence for the scripture also fosters a strong sense of community and continuity within Sikhism, influencing not just religious practice but also cultural identity as it remains central to rituals, festivals, and everyday life for Sikhs around the world.

Related terms

Sikh Gurus: The ten historical leaders of Sikhism, who provided spiritual guidance and laid the foundation for the Sikh faith, with Guru Nanak being the first and Guru Gobind Singh being the last.

Langar: A community kitchen associated with Gurdwaras where free meals are served to all visitors, promoting equality and selfless service.

Gurbani: The term used to refer to the hymns and verses found in the Guru Granth Sahib, which convey spiritual teachings and insights.