Guru Granth Sahib

Definition

The Guru Granth Sahib is the holy scripture of Sikhism, revered by Sikhs as the final, eternal Guru. It contains the teachings, hymns, and poetry of Sikh Gurus and other saints, forming the spiritual and moral foundation of the Sikh faith. This text plays a central role in Sikh worship and community life, guiding followers in their spiritual journey and ethical conduct.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Guru Granth Sahib was first compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, in the early 17th century and was later finalized by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru.
2. It consists of 1,430 pages and contains hymns written in various languages, including Punjabi, Hindi, Persian, and Gurmukhi.
3. The Guru Granth Sahib is treated with great reverence; it is placed on a raised platform called a Takht and covered with beautiful cloths.
4. Sikhs believe that the Guru Granth Sahib embodies the spirit of the Gurus and serves as a guide for living a truthful and righteous life.
5. Daily prayers and recitations from the Guru Granth Sahib are essential parts of Sikh worship, fostering a sense of community and spiritual connection among followers.

Review Questions

• How does the Guru Granth Sahib serve as an important source of guidance for Sikhs in their daily lives?
  • The Guru Granth Sahib provides Sikhs with teachings that emphasize moral values, community service, and devotion to one God. Its hymns and poetry inspire individuals to lead lives that align with principles of honesty, compassion, and humility. This scripture acts as a moral compass for Sikhs, guiding their actions and decisions while fostering a sense of unity within the community.
• Discuss the significance of the compilation process of the Guru Granth Sahib and its impact on Sikh identity.
  • The compilation process of the Guru Granth Sahib was crucial for solidifying Sikh identity as it brought together diverse teachings from various Gurus and saints into one cohesive text. This act not only preserved their teachings but also established a distinct religious identity separate from Hinduism and Islam. By recognizing the scripture as their eternal Guru, Sikhs emphasize their commitment to following its teachings while celebrating their unique heritage.
• Evaluate how the rituals surrounding the Guru Granth Sahib influence communal life in Sikhism.
  • Rituals surrounding the Guru Granth Sahib significantly enhance communal life by promoting shared values of equality, service, and spirituality. The practice of reading from the scripture during congregational worship fosters a sense of belonging among Sikhs. Additionally, rituals such as Langar encourage communal sharing and reinforce the idea that all individuals are equal regardless of background or status. Through these practices, Sikhs cultivate a strong community spirit centered around their faith.

Related terms

Sikhism: A monotheistic religion founded in the 15th century in Punjab, India, emphasizing equality, community service, and devotion to one God.

Gurdwara: A place of worship for Sikhs where the Guru Granth Sahib is read and sung, serving as a community center for learning and fellowship.

Langar: A communal meal served to all visitors at a gurdwara, symbolizing equality and sharing within the Sikh community.