History of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji – The Second Sikh Guru

💠Introduction💠

Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji was the second Guru in the line of Sikh Gurus and played a crucial role in shaping the early Sikh community. Born as Lehna in 1504, he became a devoted disciple of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Through his humility, service, and devotion, Lehna Ji was chosen by Guru Nanak Dev Ji to carry forward the spiritual mission, and was renamed Guru Angad Dev Ji.

💠Early Life💠

Guru Angad Dev Ji was born on March 31, 1504, in a village called Matte di Sarai in Punjab (now in Bathinda district). His father, Bhai Pheru Mal Ji, was a trader. From a young age, Lehna Ji was deeply spiritual and inclined towards religious practices. He was initially a follower of the Hindu goddess Durga.

His life changed when he heard the divine hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which touched his heart deeply. He traveled to meet Guru Nanak and soon became one of his most devoted followers.

Becoming the Second Guru

Impressed by Lehna Ji’s unwavering devotion, humility, and service, Guru Nanak Dev Ji appointed him as his spiritual successor in 1539. He gave him the name Angad, meaning "part of my body," symbolizing that the spirit of Guru Nanak now lived in him.

This was a significant event in Sikh history, as it established the tradition of Gurgaddi (spiritual succession), which continued through the ten Sikh Gurus.

Major Contributions

1. Gurmukhi Script

Guru Angad Dev Ji standardized and promoted the use of the Gurmukhi script, which became the foundation of Sikh religious texts. This helped in preserving the teachings of Sikhism in a unified and accessible form.

2. Langar (Community Kitchen)

He strongly supported and expanded the Langar system, ensuring that everyone—regardless of caste, religion, or background—could sit and eat together in equality and humility.

3. Physical Fitness and Education

Guru Angad Dev Ji emphasized physical well-being and encouraged regular exercise and cleanliness. He also opened schools to provide children with religious and moral education.

4. Seva (Selfless Service)

He set a shining example of selfless service, inspiring the Sikh community to live by the principles of humility, devotion, and service to humanity.

Final Years and Legacy

Guru Angad Dev Ji passed away on March 29, 1552, in Khadur Sahib, Punjab. Before his death, he appointed Guru Amar Das Ji as the third Guru of the Sikhs.

His contributions laid a strong foundation for the growth of Sikhism. The values of equality, devotion, and community service that he promoted are still core principles of the Sikh faith today.

Conclusion

Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji’s life is a powerful example of humility, faith, and service. His efforts to organize the Sikh community, promote literacy through Gurmukhi, and support the welfare of all people regardless of caste or creed, continue to inspire millions around the world.

Let us remember and honor Guru Angad Dev Ji by living lives filled with love, equality, and selfless service.

                                Thanks You 🙏