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Guru Granth Sahib
Composition, Arrangement & Layout
ਜਪੁ | Jup
ਸੋ ਦਰੁ | So Dar
ਸੋਹਿਲਾ | Sohilaa
ਰਾਗੁ ਸਿਰੀਰਾਗੁ | Raag Siree-Raag
Gurbani (14-53)
Ashtpadiyan (53-71)
Gurbani (71-74)
Pahre (74-78)
Chhant (78-81)
Vanjara (81-82)
Vaar Siri Raag (83-91)
Bhagat Bani (91-93)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਝ | Raag Maajh
Gurbani (94-109)
Ashtpadi (109)
Ashtpadiyan (110-129)
Ashtpadi (129-130)
Ashtpadiyan (130-133)
Bara Maha (133-136)
Din Raen (136-137)
Vaar Maajh Ki (137-150)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗਉੜੀ | Raag Gauree
Gurbani (151-185)
Quartets/Couplets (185-220)
Ashtpadiyan (220-234)
Karhalei (234-235)
Ashtpadiyan (235-242)
Chhant (242-249)
Baavan Akhari (250-262)
Sukhmani (262-296)
Thittee (296-300)
Gauree kii Vaar (300-323)
Gurbani (323-330)
Ashtpadiyan (330-340)
Baavan Akhari (340-343)
Thintteen (343-344)
Vaar Kabir (344-345)
Bhagat Bani (345-346)
ਰਾਗੁ ਆਸਾ | Raag Aasaa
Gurbani (347-348)
Chaupaday (348-364)
Panchpadde (364-365)
Kaafee (365-409)
Aasaavaree (409-411)
Ashtpadiyan (411-432)
Patee (432-435)
Chhant (435-462)
Vaar Aasaa (462-475)
Bhagat Bani (475-488)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗੂਜਰੀ | Raag Goojaree
Gurbani (489-503)
Ashtpadiyan (503-508)
Vaar Gujari (508-517)
Vaar Gujari (517-526)
ਰਾਗੁ ਦੇਵਗੰਧਾਰੀ | Raag Dayv-Gandhaaree
Gurbani (527-536)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਿਹਾਗੜਾ | Raag Bihaagraa
Gurbani (537-556)
Chhant (538-548)
Vaar Bihaagraa (548-556)
ਰਾਗੁ ਵਡਹੰਸ | Raag Wadhans
Gurbani (557-564)
Ashtpadiyan (564-565)
Chhant (565-575)
Ghoriaan (575-578)
Alaahaniiaa (578-582)
Vaar Wadhans (582-594)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸੋਰਠਿ | Raag Sorath
Gurbani (595-634)
Asatpadhiya (634-642)
Vaar Sorath (642-659)
ਰਾਗੁ ਧਨਾਸਰੀ | Raag Dhanasaree
Gurbani (660-685)
Astpadhiya (685-687)
Chhant (687-691)
Bhagat Bani (691-695)
ਰਾਗੁ ਜੈਤਸਰੀ | Raag Jaitsree
Gurbani (696-703)
Chhant (703-705)
Vaar Jaitsaree (705-710)
Bhagat Bani (710)
ਰਾਗੁ ਟੋਡੀ | Raag Todee
ਰਾਗੁ ਬੈਰਾੜੀ | Raag Bairaaree
ਰਾਗੁ ਤਿਲੰਗ | Raag Tilang
Gurbani (721-727)
Bhagat Bani (727)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸੂਹੀ | Raag Suhi
Gurbani (728-750)
Ashtpadiyan (750-761)
Kaafee (761-762)
Suchajee (762)
Gunvantee (763)
Chhant (763-785)
Vaar Soohee (785-792)
Bhagat Bani (792-794)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਿਲਾਵਲੁ | Raag Bilaaval
Gurbani (795-831)
Ashtpadiyan (831-838)
Thitteen (838-840)
Vaar Sat (841-843)
Chhant (843-848)
Vaar Bilaaval (849-855)
Bhagat Bani (855-858)
ਰਾਗੁ ਗੋਂਡ | Raag Gond
Gurbani (859-869)
Ashtpadiyan (869)
Bhagat Bani (870-875)
ਰਾਗੁ ਰਾਮਕਲੀ | Raag Ramkalee
Ashtpadiyan (902-916)
Gurbani (876-902)
Anand (917-922)
Sadd (923-924)
Chhant (924-929)
Dakhnee (929-938)
Sidh Gosat (938-946)
Vaar Ramkalee (947-968)
ਰਾਗੁ ਨਟ ਨਾਰਾਇਨ | Raag Nat Narayan
Gurbani (975-980)
Ashtpadiyan (980-983)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਲੀ ਗਉੜਾ | Raag Maalee Gauraa
Gurbani (984-988)
Bhagat Bani (988)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਾਰੂ | Raag Maaroo
Gurbani (889-1008)
Ashtpadiyan (1008-1014)
Kaafee (1014-1016)
Ashtpadiyan (1016-1019)
Anjulian (1019-1020)
Solhe (1020-1033)
Dakhni (1033-1043)
ਰਾਗੁ ਤੁਖਾਰੀ | Raag Tukhaari
Bara Maha (1107-1110)
Chhant (1110-1117)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕੇਦਾਰਾ | Raag Kedara
Gurbani (1118-1123)
Bhagat Bani (1123-1124)
ਰਾਗੁ ਭੈਰਉ | Raag Bhairo
Gurbani (1125-1152)
Partaal (1153)
Ashtpadiyan (1153-1167)
ਰਾਗੁ ਬਸੰਤੁ | Raag Basant
Gurbani (1168-1187)
Ashtpadiyan (1187-1193)
Vaar Basant (1193-1196)
ਰਾਗੁ ਸਾਰਗ | Raag Saarag
Gurbani (1197-1200)
Partaal (1200-1231)
Ashtpadiyan (1232-1236)
Chhant (1236-1237)
Vaar Saarang (1237-1253)
ਰਾਗੁ ਮਲਾਰ | Raag Malaar
Gurbani (1254-1293)
Partaal (1265-1273)
Ashtpadiyan (1273-1278)
Chhant (1278)
Vaar Malaar (1278-91)
Bhagat Bani (1292-93)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕਾਨੜਾ | Raag Kaanraa
Gurbani (1294-96)
Partaal (1296-1318)
Ashtpadiyan (1308-1312)
Chhant (1312)
Vaar Kaanraa
Bhagat Bani (1318)
ਰਾਗੁ ਕਲਿਆਨ | Raag Kalyaan
Gurbani (1319-23)
Ashtpadiyan (1323-26)
ਰਾਗੁ ਪ੍ਰਭਾਤੀ | Raag Prabhaatee
Gurbani (1327-1341)
Ashtpadiyan (1342-51)
ਰਾਗੁ ਜੈਜਾਵੰਤੀ | Raag Jaijaiwanti
Gurbani (1352-53)
Salok | Gatha | Phunahe | Chaubole | Swayiye
Sehskritee Mahala 1
Sehskritee Mahala 5
Gaathaa Mahala 5
Phunhay Mahala 5
Chaubolae Mahala 5
Shaloks Bhagat Kabir
Shaloks Sheikh Farid
Swaiyyae Mahala 5
Swaiyyae in Praise of Gurus
Shaloks in Addition To Vaars
Shalok Ninth Mehl
Mundavanee Mehl 5
ਰਾਗ ਮਾਲਾ, Raag Maalaa
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<blockquote data-quote="luv4u" data-source="post: 54847" data-attributes="member: 4819"><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Sikhism a Religion</span></strong></p><p> </p><p>Sikhism is a religion that began in fifteenth century in Northern India with the teachings of Guru Nanak and nine successive human gurus. This system of religious philosphy and expression has been traditionally known as the 'Gurmat' (literally <em>the teachings of the gurus</em>) or the Sikh Dharma. <em>Sikhism</em> comes from the word <em>Sikh</em>, which in turn comes from the sanskrit root meaning "disciple" or "learner".Sikhism is the fifth largestreligion in the world, and is generally considered the fifth largest organized religion, depending on how one defines an "organized religion".</p><p> </p><p>The principal belief in Sikhism is faith in waheguru represented using the sacred 'Ik Ongkar'. Sikhism advocates the pursuit of salvation through disciplined, personal meditation on the name and message of God. The followers of Sikhism are ordained to follow the teachings of the ten Gurus or enlightened leaders, as well as the holy scripture—the Guru Granth Sahib which includes the selected works of many authors from diverse socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. The text was decreed by Gobind Singh, the tenth guru, as the final guru of the Khalsa Panth. Sikhism's traditions and teachings are distinctly associated with the history, society and culture of the Punjab. Adherents of Sikhism are known as Sikhs (<em>students</em> or <em>disciples</em>) and number over 23 million across the world. However, most Sikhs live in the Punjab in India; prior to partition, millions of Sikhs lived in what is now the Provine of Punjab of Pakistan.</p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Sikh Gurus</span></strong></p><p> </p><p>Sikhism was established and developed by ten Gurus during the period 1469 to 1708. Sikhs regard the ten Gurus not as divine, but as enlightened teachers through whom God revealed his will. Each Guru appointed his successor. Guru Nanak Dev was the first Guru and Guru Gobind Singh the final Guru in human form. Guru Gobind Singh designated the Sri Guru Granth Sahib the ultimate and final Sikh Guru.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>The ten Gurus are:</p><ol> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Nanak Dev</strong> (1469-1539). The founder of Sikhism (see above).</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Angad Dev</strong> (1504-52). Developed Gurmukhi, the script used for the Punjab language and composed 62 hymns that were later included in the Guru Granth Sahib.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Amar Das</strong> (1479-1574). Became Guru at the age of 73. Organized three annual gatherings for Sikhs, set up the first pilgrimage site at Goindval Sahib and introduced Sikh rituals for birth and death. His most famous hymn, Anand Sahib, is part of Sikh daily ritual.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Ram Das</strong> (1534-1581). Founded Amritsar, the holy city of Sikhism. His followers dug the pool that became the holy lake surrounding the Golden Temple. Composed the Lavan marriage hymn, still used in Sikh marriages.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Arjan Dev</strong> (1563-1606). Collected the hymns of previous Gurus and added 2616 of his own to form the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism. He also built the Golden Temple.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Hargobind</strong> (1595-1644). The son of Guru Arjan. Proclaimed that the Guru is a military leader as well as spiritual leader, leading to conflict with the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Har Rai</strong> (1630-1661). Grandson of Guru Hargobind.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Har Krishan</strong> (1656-1664). Younger son of Guru Har Rai. Became guru at the age of 5 and died of smallpox at the age of 8. He is the only Guru depicted in art without a beard.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Tegh Bahadur</strong> (1621-75). Great-uncle of Guru Har Krishan. Was barred from Amritsar by Sikh rivals, so founded the Sikh center of Anandpur. Was beheaded in Delhi by Muslims for helping Brahmins avoid forcible conversion to Islam.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong>Guru Gobind Singh</strong> (1666-1708). Son of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Second only to Guru Nanak in importance, he is often shown prominently next to Nanak in Sikh art. Resisted oppression by Muhgal and Hindu authorities, exemplifying the Sikh ideal of the heroic saint-soldier. Founded the Khalsa and Sikh baptism, composed many poems, and nominated the Sikh sacred text as the final and enduring Guru.</li> </ol><p>"The Palace of the Lord God is so beautiful. Within it, there are gems, rubies, pearls and flawless diamonds. A fortress of gold surrounds this Source of Nectar. How can I climb up to the Fortress without a ladder? By meditating on the Lord, through the Guru, I am blessed and exalted. The Guru is the Ladder, the Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Raft to take me to the Lord’s Name. The Guru is the Boat to carry me across the world-ocean; the Guru is the Sacred Shrine of Pilgrimage, the Guru is the Holy River. If it pleases Him, I bathe in the Pool of Truth, and become radiant and pure." (Guru Nanak, Sri Rag, pg. 17) </p><p> </p><p>The word "Guru" is a Sanskrit word meaning teacher, honoured person, religious person or saint. Sikhism though has a very specific definition of the word Guru. It means the descent of divine guidance to mankind provided through ten Enlightened Masters. This honour of being called a Sikh Guru applies only to the ten Gurus who founded the religion starting with Guru Nanak in 1469 and ending with Guru Gobind Singh in 1708; thereafter it refers to the Sikh Holy Scriptures the Guru Granth Sahib. The divine spirit was passed from one Guru to the next as "The light of a lamp which lights another does not abate. Similarly a spiritual leader and his disciple become equal, Nanak says the truth." </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>"They distinguish and separate one Guru from the other. And rare is the one who knows that they, indeed, were one. They who realised this in their hearts, attained Realisation of God." (Guru Gobind Singh, Dohira, Vachitra Natak)</p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Basic Philosphy</span></strong></p><p>Sikhism rejects any form of idol worship including worship of pictures of the Gurus. Although some of the Gurus did pose for paintings, unfortunately none of these historical paintings have survived. Artists renditions are for inspirational purposes only and should not be regarded as objects of worship themselves.</p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Important Links for Self study</span></strong></p><p>Following are some of the links that can be used for ready reference.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak2.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Angad Dev ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak3.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Amardas ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak4.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Ramdas ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak5.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak6.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Hargobind ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak7.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Harrai ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak8.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Sri Guru Harkishen ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak9.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji</span></u></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak10.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji</span></u></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak11.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji</span></u></a></p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Some early Gurusikhs</span></strong></p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhaibala.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Bala ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhailangah.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Langah ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/rajni.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bibi Rajni ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kabulmai.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Kabul wali Mai</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhagatu.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Bhagatu ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kanhaiya.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Kanhaiya ji</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/makhanshah.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Makhan Shah</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nandlal.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Bhai Nand Lal</span></u></a> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/matajito.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Mata Jito ji</span></u></a> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pdayas.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Daya Singh</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pdharams.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Dharam Singh</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/phimmats.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Himmat Singh</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pmukhams.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Mukham Singh</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/psahibs.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Bhai Sahib Singh</span></u></a> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kirpadutt.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Kirpa Singh Dutt</span></u></a> </p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/dalasingh.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff"><u>Bhai Dala Singh</u></span></a></p><p><a href="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/dansingh.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #0000ff">Bhai Dan Singh</span></u></a></p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Religious Authority</span></strong></p><p> </p><p>The ultimate source of authority and doctrine in Sikhism is the sacred book, the Adi Granth. In the event of disputes, a council is convened at the Akal Takht ("Throne of the Timeless"), a building facing the Harimandir temple in Amritsar. Resolutions passed by this council carry spiritual sanction. </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">God</span></strong></p><p>Sikhism is monotheistic, strongly emphasizing belief in one true God. Guru Nanak used the Hindu mystic syllable om as a symbol of God. He added the qualifications of God as one and creator, resulting in the ik om kar symbol. Sikhism forbids the representation of God in images and the worship of idols. </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Karma and Reincarnation</span></strong></p><p>Sikhism retains the general Hindu conception of the universe and the doctrine of samsara, or rebirth, based on karma. Human birth is the only chance to escape samsara and attain salvation. </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Khalsa and State</span></strong></p><p>Especially after conflict with the Mughal empire in Sikh history, religion and politics have been closely associated in Sikhism. Establishment of a Sikh state is a matter of religious doctrine, and all services end with the chant, "Raj karey Ga Khalsa" (the Khalsa shall rule). </p><p><span style="color: darkorange"><strong>Fast Facts Of sikhism</strong><span style="color: black"><strong>name </strong></span><span style="color: black">From Punjabi <em>sikh</em>, "learner" or "disciple" </span><span style="color: black"><strong>founded </strong></span><span style="color: black">c. 1500 in India </span><span style="color: black"><strong>founder </strong></span><span style="color: black">Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1538) </span><span style="color: black"><strong>adherents </strong></span><span style="color: black">23 million </span><span style="color: black"><strong>main location </strong></span><span style="color: black">Punjab region of India </span><span style="color: black"><strong>original language </strong></span><span style="color: black">Punjabi </span><span style="color: black"><strong>sacred text </strong></span><span style="color: black">Adi Granth (Sri Guru Granth Sahib) </span><span style="color: black"><strong>spiritual leaders </strong></span><span style="color: black">Granthi, giani </span><span style="color: black"><strong>house of worship </strong></span><span style="color: black">Temple, gurdwara </span><span style="color: black"><strong>theism </strong></span><span style="color: black">monotheism </span><span style="color: black"><strong>ultimate reality </strong></span><span style="color: black">God (Ik Onkar, Nam) </span><span style="color: black"><strong>purpose of life </strong></span><span style="color: black">Overcome the self, align life with will of God, and become a "saint soldier," fighting for good </span><span style="color: black"><strong>afterlife </strong></span><span style="color: black">Reincarnation until resolve karma and merge with God. </span><span style="color: black"><strong>major holidays </strong></span><span style="color: black">Vaisakhi Day</span></span></p><p><span style="color: darkorange"><span style="color: black">Birthday of Guru Nanak</span></span></p><p><span style="color: darkorange"><span style="color: black">Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh </span><span style="color: black"><strong>five vices </strong></span><span style="color: black">1. lust 2. anger, 3. greed ,4. worldly attachment ,5. pride </span></span> </p><p><strong><span style="color: darkorange">Sources</span></strong></p><ol> <li data-xf-list-type="ol">"Sikhism." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Premium Service, Feb. 2005. <<a href="http://www.britannica.com/eb/article?tocId=9105865" target="_blank">Sikhism --* Encyclopaedia Britannica</a>>.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol">John Bowker, ed., Cambridge Illustrated History of Religions (Cambridge UP, 2002).</li> </ol><p>Compiled by luv4u</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="luv4u, post: 54847, member: 4819"] [B][COLOR=darkorange]Sikhism a Religion[/COLOR][/B] Sikhism is a religion that began in fifteenth century in Northern India with the teachings of Guru Nanak and nine successive human gurus. This system of religious philosphy and expression has been traditionally known as the 'Gurmat' (literally [I]the teachings of the gurus[/I]) or the Sikh Dharma. [I]Sikhism[/I] comes from the word [I]Sikh[/I], which in turn comes from the sanskrit root meaning "disciple" or "learner".Sikhism is the fifth largestreligion in the world, and is generally considered the fifth largest organized religion, depending on how one defines an "organized religion". The principal belief in Sikhism is faith in waheguru represented using the sacred 'Ik Ongkar'. Sikhism advocates the pursuit of salvation through disciplined, personal meditation on the name and message of God. The followers of Sikhism are ordained to follow the teachings of the ten Gurus or enlightened leaders, as well as the holy scripture—the Guru Granth Sahib which includes the selected works of many authors from diverse socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. The text was decreed by Gobind Singh, the tenth guru, as the final guru of the Khalsa Panth. Sikhism's traditions and teachings are distinctly associated with the history, society and culture of the Punjab. Adherents of Sikhism are known as Sikhs ([I]students[/I] or [I]disciples[/I]) and number over 23 million across the world. However, most Sikhs live in the Punjab in India; prior to partition, millions of Sikhs lived in what is now the Provine of Punjab of Pakistan. [B][COLOR=darkorange]Sikh Gurus[/COLOR][/B] Sikhism was established and developed by ten Gurus during the period 1469 to 1708. Sikhs regard the ten Gurus not as divine, but as enlightened teachers through whom God revealed his will. Each Guru appointed his successor. Guru Nanak Dev was the first Guru and Guru Gobind Singh the final Guru in human form. Guru Gobind Singh designated the Sri Guru Granth Sahib the ultimate and final Sikh Guru. The ten Gurus are: [LIST=1] [*][B]Guru Nanak Dev[/B] (1469-1539). The founder of Sikhism (see above). [*][B]Guru Angad Dev[/B] (1504-52). Developed Gurmukhi, the script used for the Punjab language and composed 62 hymns that were later included in the Guru Granth Sahib. [*][B]Guru Amar Das[/B] (1479-1574). Became Guru at the age of 73. Organized three annual gatherings for Sikhs, set up the first pilgrimage site at Goindval Sahib and introduced Sikh rituals for birth and death. His most famous hymn, Anand Sahib, is part of Sikh daily ritual. [*][B]Guru Ram Das[/B] (1534-1581). Founded Amritsar, the holy city of Sikhism. His followers dug the pool that became the holy lake surrounding the Golden Temple. Composed the Lavan marriage hymn, still used in Sikh marriages. [*][B]Guru Arjan Dev[/B] (1563-1606). Collected the hymns of previous Gurus and added 2616 of his own to form the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism. He also built the Golden Temple. [*][B]Guru Hargobind[/B] (1595-1644). The son of Guru Arjan. Proclaimed that the Guru is a military leader as well as spiritual leader, leading to conflict with the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. [*][B]Guru Har Rai[/B] (1630-1661). Grandson of Guru Hargobind. [*][B]Guru Har Krishan[/B] (1656-1664). Younger son of Guru Har Rai. Became guru at the age of 5 and died of smallpox at the age of 8. He is the only Guru depicted in art without a beard. [*][B]Guru Tegh Bahadur[/B] (1621-75). Great-uncle of Guru Har Krishan. Was barred from Amritsar by Sikh rivals, so founded the Sikh center of Anandpur. Was beheaded in Delhi by Muslims for helping Brahmins avoid forcible conversion to Islam. [*][B]Guru Gobind Singh[/B] (1666-1708). Son of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Second only to Guru Nanak in importance, he is often shown prominently next to Nanak in Sikh art. Resisted oppression by Muhgal and Hindu authorities, exemplifying the Sikh ideal of the heroic saint-soldier. Founded the Khalsa and Sikh baptism, composed many poems, and nominated the Sikh sacred text as the final and enduring Guru.[/LIST]"The Palace of the Lord God is so beautiful. Within it, there are gems, rubies, pearls and flawless diamonds. A fortress of gold surrounds this Source of Nectar. How can I climb up to the Fortress without a ladder? By meditating on the Lord, through the Guru, I am blessed and exalted. The Guru is the Ladder, the Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Raft to take me to the Lord’s Name. The Guru is the Boat to carry me across the world-ocean; the Guru is the Sacred Shrine of Pilgrimage, the Guru is the Holy River. If it pleases Him, I bathe in the Pool of Truth, and become radiant and pure." (Guru Nanak, Sri Rag, pg. 17) The word "Guru" is a Sanskrit word meaning teacher, honoured person, religious person or saint. Sikhism though has a very specific definition of the word Guru. It means the descent of divine guidance to mankind provided through ten Enlightened Masters. This honour of being called a Sikh Guru applies only to the ten Gurus who founded the religion starting with Guru Nanak in 1469 and ending with Guru Gobind Singh in 1708; thereafter it refers to the Sikh Holy Scriptures the Guru Granth Sahib. The divine spirit was passed from one Guru to the next as "The light of a lamp which lights another does not abate. Similarly a spiritual leader and his disciple become equal, Nanak says the truth." "They distinguish and separate one Guru from the other. And rare is the one who knows that they, indeed, were one. They who realised this in their hearts, attained Realisation of God." (Guru Gobind Singh, Dohira, Vachitra Natak) [B][COLOR=darkorange]Basic Philosphy[/COLOR][/B] Sikhism rejects any form of idol worship including worship of pictures of the Gurus. Although some of the Gurus did pose for paintings, unfortunately none of these historical paintings have survived. Artists renditions are for inspirational purposes only and should not be regarded as objects of worship themselves. [B][COLOR=darkorange]Important Links for Self study[/COLOR][/B] Following are some of the links that can be used for ready reference. [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak2.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Angad Dev ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak3.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Amardas ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak4.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Ramdas ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak5.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Arjan Dev ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak6.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Hargobind ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak7.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Harrai ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak8.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Sri Guru Harkishen ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak9.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak10.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak11.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [B][COLOR=darkorange]Some early Gurusikhs[/COLOR][/B] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhaibala.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Bala ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhailangah.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Langah ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/rajni.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bibi Rajni ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kabulmai.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Kabul wali Mai[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/bhagatu.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Bhagatu ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kanhaiya.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Kanhaiya ji[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/makhanshah.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Makhan Shah[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nandlal.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Bhai Nand Lal[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/matajito.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Mata Jito ji[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pdayas.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Daya Singh[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pdharams.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Dharam Singh[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/phimmats.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Himmat Singh[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/pmukhams.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Mukham Singh[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/psahibs.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Bhai Sahib Singh[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/kirpadutt.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Kirpa Singh Dutt[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/dalasingh.html"][COLOR=#0000ff][U]Bhai Dala Singh[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [URL="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/dansingh.html"][U][COLOR=#0000ff]Bhai Dan Singh[/COLOR][/U][/URL] [B][COLOR=darkorange]Religious Authority[/COLOR][/B] The ultimate source of authority and doctrine in Sikhism is the sacred book, the Adi Granth. In the event of disputes, a council is convened at the Akal Takht ("Throne of the Timeless"), a building facing the Harimandir temple in Amritsar. Resolutions passed by this council carry spiritual sanction. [B][COLOR=darkorange]God[/COLOR][/B] Sikhism is monotheistic, strongly emphasizing belief in one true God. Guru Nanak used the Hindu mystic syllable om as a symbol of God. He added the qualifications of God as one and creator, resulting in the ik om kar symbol. Sikhism forbids the representation of God in images and the worship of idols. [B][COLOR=darkorange]Karma and Reincarnation[/COLOR][/B] Sikhism retains the general Hindu conception of the universe and the doctrine of samsara, or rebirth, based on karma. Human birth is the only chance to escape samsara and attain salvation. [B][COLOR=darkorange]Khalsa and State[/COLOR][/B] Especially after conflict with the Mughal empire in Sikh history, religion and politics have been closely associated in Sikhism. Establishment of a Sikh state is a matter of religious doctrine, and all services end with the chant, "Raj karey Ga Khalsa" (the Khalsa shall rule). [COLOR=darkorange][B]Fast Facts Of sikhism[/B][COLOR=black][B]name [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]From Punjabi [I]sikh[/I], "learner" or "disciple" [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]founded [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]c. 1500 in India [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]founder [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1538) [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]adherents [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]23 million [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]main location [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Punjab region of India [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]original language [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Punjabi [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]sacred text [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Adi Granth (Sri Guru Granth Sahib) [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]spiritual leaders [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Granthi, giani [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]house of worship [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Temple, gurdwara [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]theism [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]monotheism [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]ultimate reality [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]God (Ik Onkar, Nam) [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]purpose of life [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Overcome the self, align life with will of God, and become a "saint soldier," fighting for good [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]afterlife [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Reincarnation until resolve karma and merge with God. [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]major holidays [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]Vaisakhi Day Birthday of Guru Nanak Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh [/COLOR][COLOR=black][B]five vices [/B][/COLOR][COLOR=black]1. lust 2. anger, 3. greed ,4. worldly attachment ,5. pride [/COLOR][/COLOR][B][/B] [B][COLOR=darkorange]Sources[/COLOR][/B] [LIST=1] [*]"Sikhism." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Premium Service, Feb. 2005. <[URL="http://www.britannica.com/eb/article?tocId=9105865"]Sikhism --* Encyclopaedia Britannica[/URL]>. [*]John Bowker, ed., Cambridge Illustrated History of Religions (Cambridge UP, 2002).[/LIST]Compiled by luv4u [/QUOTE]
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