Guru Granth Sahib

Definition

The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism, regarded as the final, eternal Guru by Sikhs. It contains the teachings of the Sikh Gurus and various other saints, emphasizing devotion to God, equality, and the importance of community service.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Guru Granth Sahib was first compiled by Guru Arjan, the fifth Guru, in the early 17th century and later finalized by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru.
2. It contains over 1,400 pages and is written in Gurmukhi script, featuring hymns (shabads) that are central to Sikh worship.
3. The scripture is treated with immense respect; it is placed on a raised platform and covered with a canopy in gurdwaras.
4. Sikhs believe that the Guru Granth Sahib has the same spiritual authority as the Gurus themselves, making it a living Guru.
5. The teachings found within the Guru Granth Sahib emphasize social justice, human rights, and the importance of living a truthful life.

Review Questions

• How does the Guru Granth Sahib reflect the core beliefs of Sikhism?
  • The Guru Granth Sahib embodies key Sikh beliefs such as devotion to one God, equality among all people, and service to humanity. The scripture emphasizes that everyone, regardless of caste or gender, has a direct relationship with God. Its teachings advocate for social justice and moral living, which are fundamental to Sikh values. Therefore, it not only serves as a spiritual guide but also shapes ethical behavior within the Sikh community.
• Discuss the significance of the Guru Granth Sahib in Sikh practices and ceremonies.
  • The Guru Granth Sahib plays a crucial role in Sikh practices and ceremonies as it is central to worship in gurdwaras. Sikhs gather for congregational prayers where hymns from the scripture are sung. Important life events such as births, weddings, and funerals involve reading from the Guru Granth Sahib to invoke blessings. This integration into daily life highlights its importance in guiding spiritual practices and communal activities within Sikhism.
• Evaluate how the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib contribute to Sikh ethics and social justice.
  • The teachings found in the Guru Granth Sahib serve as a foundation for Sikh ethics and social justice by advocating for equality and selfless service. The scripture teaches that all humans are equal in the eyes of God, challenging caste distinctions and discrimination. By promoting community service through concepts like Langar, it encourages Sikhs to fight against social injustices. This integration of spirituality with ethical living fosters a strong commitment among Sikhs to advocate for human rights both within their communities and beyond.

Related terms

Sikh Gurus: The ten spiritual leaders who shaped Sikhism, each contributing to the faith's teachings, practices, and community structure.

Gurdwara:

A place of worship in Sikhism where the Guru Granth Sahib is read and sung, serving as a community center for Sikhs.

Langar:

The community kitchen found in gurdwaras that serves free meals to all visitors, reflecting Sikh principles of equality and service.