History of Guru Granth Sahib

History of Guru Granth Sahib

The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism and is considered the eternal Guru by Sikhs. It contains the spiritual teachings of Sikh Gurus and various saints from different backgrounds, emphasizing devotion to one God, equality, and righteous living.

Origins

The foundation of the Guru Granth Sahib was laid by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru, whose hymns and compositions were passed down orally and in written form. Successive Gurus contributed to this growing collection of spiritual writings.

Compilation by Guru Arjan Dev Ji

The fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, compiled the original version of the scripture in 1604. This was called the Adi Granth. It included hymns from the first five Gurus and contributions from Bhakti saints and Muslim Sufi mystics such as Kabir, Ravidas, Namdev, and Farid. It was installed at the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.

Final Version by Guru Gobind Singh Ji

The tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, added the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Guru, and formally completed the scripture. In 1708, before his passing, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the final and eternal Guru of the Sikhs, ending the line of human Gurus.

Key Features

Written in Gurmukhi script

Contains 1430 pages (Angs)

Includes Bani (hymns) of 36 contributors, not limited to Sikhs

Promotes universal values: truth, equality, humility, and love

Significance

The Guru Granth Sahib is not just a holy book but a living spiritual guide. It is treated with utmost respect and is read and sung daily in gurdwaras around the world. Sikhs seek guidance from its teachings in all aspects of life.