22.10 Evolution of the Sikh community and the Khalsa Panth

I. Introduction

Sikhism, one of the world’s youngest religions, traces its roots back to the teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Guru of the Sikh faith. Born in 1469 in the village of Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan, Guru Nanak’s spiritual journey laid the foundation for the profound and transformative faith that is Sikhism.

A. Background of Sikhism and Guru Nanak

1. The Spiritual Climate of the Time: Guru Nanak’s life coincided with a period of spiritual ferment in India. The Indian subcontinent was marked by the presence of various religious and philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Sufism.
2. Birth and Early Life: Guru Nanak was born into a Hindu family and displayed signs of spiritual wisdom from a young age. He showed a keen interest in meditation and a contemplative approach to life.
3. The Divine Call: It is believed that Guru Nanak experienced a spiritual revelation during one of his meditative sessions. This profound experience led him to embark on a spiritual journey to spread his message of unity and divine love.

B. The Three Basic Elements of Guru Nanak’s Philosophy

Guru Nanak’s teachings were characterized by three fundamental elements that formed the bedrock of Sikhism’s philosophy:

1. Oneness of God (Ik Onkar): Guru Nanak emphasized the concept of Ik Onkar, which means “One God.” He rejected the idea of multiple deities and advocated for the existence of a single, formless, and omnipotent creator.
2. Equality of All Humanity: Central to Guru Nanak’s philosophy was the principle of equality. He preached that all human beings are equal in the eyes of the divine, regardless of their caste, creed, gender, or social status.
3. Necessity of Devotion and Compassion: Guru Nanak stressed the importance of devotion (Bhakti) and compassion (Daya) in the spiritual journey. He believed that through heartfelt love and selfless service to others, individuals could attain spiritual liberation.

C. Repudiation of Prevailing Religious Beliefs

Guru Nanak’s teachings challenged many prevailing religious beliefs and practices of his time:

1. Rejecting Ritualistic Observances: Guru Nanak critiqued ritualistic practices and empty religious formalities. He advocated for sincere devotion and internal spirituality rather than external rituals.
2. Criticism of Caste System: Guru Nanak vehemently denounced the caste system, which perpetuated social divisions and inequalities. He emphasized that all human beings were equal in the eyes of the divine and that caste distinctions held no spiritual significance.

D. Emphasis on Universal Brotherhood and Equality

One of the central themes of Guru Nanak’s teachings was the concept of universal brotherhood and equality:

1. Rejecting Religious Boundaries: Guru Nanak traveled extensively to various regions, engaging in dialogues with people of different faiths. He advocated for mutual respect and understanding among followers of different religions.
2. Langar and Community Service: Guru Nanak introduced the practice of Langar, a community kitchen where people from all walks of life could share a meal together. This tradition symbolized equality and inclusivity.
3. Promotion of Gender Equality: Guru Nanak challenged gender norms and treated women with respect and equality. He encouraged women to participate in religious gatherings and play an active role in the community.

Guru Nanak’s profound teachings and compassionate approach to humanity laid the foundation for Sikhism, a faith that continues to inspire millions worldwide. His philosophy of oneness, equality, and devotion to the divine remains at the core of Sikh beliefs, making Guru Nanak an eternal source of spiritual wisdom and inspiration.

II. Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539)

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, played a pivotal role in shaping the religious and philosophical foundation of this faith. Let’s delve into the life and teachings of Guru Nanak:

A. Founder of Sikhism and First Guru

• Guru Nanak was the first of the ten Sikh Gurus and the founder of Sikhism.
• His teachings and philosophy are considered essential components of Indian philosophy and thought.

B. Nanak’s Evaluation of Religious Beliefs

• Guru Nanak’s philosophy revolved around three fundamental elements: Guru (leading charismatic personality), Shabad (ideology), and Sangat (organization).
• He critiqued prevailing religious beliefs and sought to establish a true religion that could lead to salvation.
• Guru Nanak vehemently repudiated idol worship, pilgrimage, and the theory of incarnation.
• He criticized formalism, ritualism, and the caste system, emphasizing that caste and honor should be judged by individuals’ deeds.
• The Guru advocated for the unity of God and stressed the need for a true Guru for revelation.
• He encouraged people to follow principles of conduct and worship, including truth (sach), lawful earning (halal), wishing well for others (khair), right intention (niyat), and service of the Lord.

C. The Concepts of Sach (Truth) and Nam (Name)

• Guru Nanak’s verses mainly revolved around two core concepts: Sach (truth) and Nam (Name).
• Sabad (the word), Guru (the divine precept), and Hukam (the divine order) form the basis of divine self-expression in Sikhism.
• Emphasizing the importance of kirtan (devotional singing) and satsang (holy congregation), Guru Nanak sought to create a deeper connection with the Divine.

D. Emphasis on Kirtan and Satsang

• Guru Nanak placed great importance on the devotional practices of kirtan and satsang.
• Kirtan involves singing hymns and praises to the Divine, fostering a sense of spiritual unity and devotion among the Sikh community.
• Satsang refers to the congregation of like-minded individuals engaged in spiritual discussions and prayers.

E. Introduction of Community Lunch (Langar)

• Guru Nanak introduced the concept of “langar,” a community kitchen where people of all backgrounds and castes could come together to share a meal.
• This practice promoted equality, communal harmony, and the breaking down of social barriers, as everyone sat and ate together regardless of their social status.

F. Influence of Sufism on Nanak’s Thought

• Historian Tarachand recognized the significant influence of Sufi thought on Guru Nanak’s religious thinking.
• Guru Nanak’s verses display similarity with those of Baba Farid, a prominent Sufi saint, in their devotion and surrender to one God.
• However, despite this influence, Guru Nanak did not hesitate to criticize Sufi practitioners who led luxurious lives, emphasizing the need for simplicity and austerity.

G. Nanak’s Attempt to Unify Hindus and Muslims

• Guru Nanak made a sincere effort to bridge the gap between Hindus and Muslims and succeeded in synthesizing essential concepts of Hinduism and Islam within his teachings.
• He aimed to foster unity and understanding between the two communities, emphasizing the common elements of their faiths and advocating for mutual respect and harmony.

III. Guru Angad (1539 – 1552)

Guru Angad, the second Sikh Guru, succeeded Guru Nanak and played a significant role in the development and expansion of Sikhism. Let’s explore the life and contributions of Guru Angad:

A. Successor to Guru Nanak

• After Guru Nanak’s passing in 1539, Guru Angad was unanimously chosen as his successor by the Sikh community.
• He assumed the responsibility of guiding the Sikh community and continuing the mission initiated by Guru Nanak.

B. Conflict with Udasis and Relocation to Khadar

• Guru Angad faced opposition from Udasis, followers of Baba Sri Chand, Guru Nanak’s elder son.
• The Udasis were displeased with Guru Angad’s appointment and the prominence of Sikhism over their own sect.
• Due to growing tensions, Guru Angad decided to move the Sikh center to Khadur Sahib, which became the new headquarters.

C. Contributions to Script and Language

• One of Guru Angad’s most significant contributions was the standardization and promotion of the Gurmukhi script.
• He modified the existing script to make it more accessible and adapted it to write the Punjabi language.
• The Gurmukhi script became the medium for preserving Sikh scriptures and facilitating religious education.

D. Collection of Nanak’s Hymns

• Guru Angad collected the hymns composed by Guru Nanak and compiled them into a cohesive volume known as the “Pothi Sahib” or “Guru Granth Sahib.”
• This compilation ensured that the teachings of Guru Nanak were preserved for future generations and formed the foundation of Sikh scriptures.

E. Promotion of Langar

• Following Guru Nanak’s practice, Guru Angad continued to promote the institution of langar.
• The langar was expanded to accommodate the growing Sikh community, and its significance in fostering equality and community spirit remained paramount.

IV. Guru Amar Das (1552 – 1574)

Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, made significant contributions to Sikhism during his tenure. Let’s delve into the life and accomplishments of Guru Amar Das:

A. Compositions of Anand and Anand Sahib

• Guru Amar Das composed the “Anand,” a beautiful hymn that expresses the bliss of union with the Divine.
• This hymn, also known as “Anand Sahib,” is a central part of Sikh worship and is recited by Sikhs with great devotion.

B. Introduction of the Manji System

• Guru Amar Das introduced the Manji System, which involved appointing dedicated individuals known as “Manji Sahibs” to oversee different regions.
• These Manji Sahibs were responsible for propagating Sikh teachings, providing guidance to local communities, and facilitating religious gatherings.

C. Regularization of Inter-Dining Congregation

• Guru Amar Das implemented the practice of “Langar” on a larger scale and regularized the inter-dining congregation.
• He emphasized the importance of breaking bread together as a means of promoting equality and breaking down social barriers.

D. Emphasis on Fraternity and Guruship Heredity

• Guru Amar Das emphasized the concept of “Piri-Miri,” which stands for the spiritual and temporal authority vested in the Sikh Guru.
• He established a system of Guruship heredity, where the next Guru would be chosen from among his family members or close disciples.

E. Interaction with Akbar and Social Reforms

• Guru Amar Das had a significant meeting with Emperor Akbar, during which he impressed upon the need for religious tolerance and understanding.
• His interactions with Akbar and other rulers contributed to social reforms, promoting harmony among different communities.

V. Guru Ram Das (1574 – 1581)

Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, made significant contributions to the development and expansion of Sikhism. Let’s explore the various aspects of his life and his impact on the Sikh community:

A. Construction of Sacred Tanks and Cities

• Guru Ram Das initiated the construction of the sacred pool known as “Amritsar,” around which the holy city of Amritsar was later established.
• The pool, now called the “Sarovar,” holds immense significance for Sikhs and serves as the centerpiece of the Golden Temple complex.

B. Initiatives in Fortification and Masand System

• Guru Ram Das strengthened the fortifications of Amritsar, ensuring the safety and security of the growing Sikh community.
• He also established the “Masand” system, appointing representatives to various regions to collect offerings and propagate Sikh teachings.

C. Development of Sikh Architecture

• Guru Ram Das played a crucial role in the architectural development of Amritsar, including the construction of the Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple.
• The Golden Temple is an iconic symbol of Sikhism and serves as a place of worship and spiritual reflection for millions of Sikhs worldwide.

D. Compilation of Adi Granth in 1604

• Guru Ram Das compiled the hymns of the first three Sikh Gurus, along with his own compositions, into the “Adi Granth,” also known as the Guru Granth Sahib.
• The Guru Granth Sahib serves as the eternal Guru and the central religious scripture of Sikhism, guiding and inspiring Sikh devotees.

VI. Guru Arjan Dev (1581 – 1606)

Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, was a multifaceted personality who made significant contributions to Sikhism and played a crucial role in its development. Let’s delve into the various aspects of his life and his impact on the Sikh community:

A. Multifaceted Personality of Guru Arjan Dev

• Guru Arjan Dev was a visionary leader, a spiritual guide, a poet, and a musician. His multifaceted personality allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life and spread the message of Sikhism far and wide.
• He was known for his compassion, humility, and devotion to the welfare of his followers.

B. Development of the Masand System

• Guru Arjan Dev further strengthened and reformed the Masand system initiated by Guru Ram Das.
• The Masands were appointed as community leaders and were responsible for collecting offerings and spreading Sikh teachings in various regions.

C. Construction of Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)

• One of Guru Arjan Dev’s most significant achievements was the construction of the Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar.
• The Golden Temple became the central place of worship for Sikhs and a symbol of the unity of the Sikh community.

D. Compilation of Adi Granth with Hymns of All Five Gurus

• Guru Arjan Dev compiled the Adi Granth, also known as the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
• He included hymns not only from the first four Sikh Gurus but also added his own compositions, ensuring the continuity of Sikh spiritual teachings.

E. Executed by Jehangir for His Support to Khusrau

• Guru Arjan Dev faced persecution from the Mughal Emperor Jehangir due to his support for the rebellious prince, Khusrau.
• Jehangir ordered his execution, and Guru Arjan Dev became the first Sikh Guru to attain martyrdom, setting a significant precedent for Sikh history.

VII. Guru Hargovind (1606 – 1644)

Guru Hargovind, the sixth Sikh Guru, played a crucial role in shaping the identity and direction of Sikhism during his reign. His leadership marked a significant shift towards militarization and radicalization, as well as the emergence of the concept of Piri and Miri. Let’s explore the key aspects of Guru Hargovind’s life and his impact on Sikh history:

A. Introduction of Militarization and Radicalization

• Guru Hargovind recognized the need to defend the Sikh community against external threats and oppression. He introduced the concept of the “Saint-Soldier,” where Sikhs were expected to be both spiritually inclined and prepared for combat if necessary.
• This marked a departure from the peaceful and passive approach of earlier Gurus and laid the foundation for the Sikh martial tradition.

B. Construction of Akal Takht and Lohgarh Fort

• Guru Hargovind oversaw the construction of Akal Takht, the throne of the timeless one, in Amritsar, adjacent to the Harmandir Sahib. Akal Takht served as the temporal seat of Sikh authority, while Harmandir Sahib remained the spiritual center.
• Lohgarh Fort, also known as Fort of the Iron Plaque, was built as a stronghold to defend against external threats. It became a symbol of Sikh resistance against oppression.

C. Emergence of the Concept of Piri and Miri

• Guru Hargovind introduced the concept of Piri and Miri, representing the coexistence of spiritual and temporal authority.
• Piri represented the spiritual authority of the Guru, while Miri symbolized his temporal authority. This dual concept emphasized the Guru’s role as both a spiritual guide and a political leader.

D. Accommodating Relations with Jehangir

• Despite earlier conflicts between the Sikh community and the Mughal Empire, Guru Hargovind maintained accommodating relations with Emperor Jehangir.
• He secured the release of 52 Hindu kings who were imprisoned by Jehangir, earning the title “Bandi Chhor” (Liberator of Prisoners).

E. Battles during the Reign of Shah Jahan

• Guru Hargovind faced challenges during the reign of Jehangir’s successor, Shah Jahan.
• He engaged in several battles to protect the Sikh community and uphold their rights and beliefs.

VIII. Guru Har Rai (1644 – 1661) and Guru Harkishan (1661 – 1664)

Guru Har Rai, the seventh Sikh Guru, followed in the footsteps of Guru Hargovind by maintaining a military approach to protect the Sikh community. He was succeeded by Guru Harkishan, who became the youngest Guru in Sikh history. Let’s delve into the lives and contributions of Guru Har Rai and Guru Harkishan:

A. Guru Har Rai’s Military Approach

• Guru Har Rai continued the tradition of the “Saint-Soldier” established by Guru Hargovind. He upheld the militarization of the Sikh community and emphasized the importance of self-defense.
• Under his leadership, the Sikhs remained prepared to confront any challenges to their faith and rights.

B. Support to Dara Shikoh and Avoidance of Military Conflict

• Guru Har Rai maintained a policy of non-interference in political matters, avoiding direct military confrontation with the Mughal Empire during his tenure.
• He chose to support Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, due to his more liberal and inclusive views on religious matters.

C. Guru Harkishan Becoming the Youngest Guru

• After Guru Har Rai’s passing, Guru Harkishan, at the young age of five, became the eighth Sikh Guru in 1661.
• Despite his tender age, Guru Harkishan displayed extraordinary wisdom and compassion.

D. Meeting with Aurangzeb and Early Demise

• Guru Harkishan’s reputation for his spiritual presence and healing abilities reached Emperor Aurangzeb, who sought to test the young Guru.
• During an epidemic outbreak in Delhi, Guru Harkishan selflessly provided aid to the suffering, but he contracted the illness and passed away at the age of eight in 1664.

IX. Guru Teghbahadur (1664 – 1675)

Guru Teghbahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, played a crucial role in protecting the religious freedom and rights of not only Sikhs but also Hindus during a period of religious persecution under the Mughal Empire. Let’s explore the life and contributions of Guru Teghbahadur:

A. Relocation to Makhowal (Anandpur)

• After the passing of Guru Harkishan, Guru Teghbahadur succeeded as the Guru of the Sikh community in 1664.
• He faced several challenges, including the ongoing conflict with the Mughal authorities over religious freedom.

B. Martyrdom by Aurangzeb in Delhi

• Guru Teghbahadur’s fearless stand against religious persecution led to his arrest by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1675.
• The Guru was brought to Delhi, where he was subjected to severe torture and given the ultimatum to convert to Islam or face execution.
• Despite facing immense hardships, Guru Teghbahadur chose to embrace martyrdom and sacrificed his life for the principles of religious liberty.

C. Construction of Gurudwara Sisganj at the Place of Martyrdom

• The place of Guru Teghbahadur’s martyrdom in Delhi became a site of great significance for Sikhs.
• Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, later constructed the historic Gurudwara Sisganj at the location to honor the memory of his father’s sacrifice.

Guru Teghbahadur’s martyrdom is considered a pivotal moment in Sikh history as it underscored the importance of defending the right to practice one’s religion freely. His courage and unwavering commitment to the principles of religious tolerance and liberty continue to inspire Sikhs around the world.

X. Guru Govind Singh (1675 – 1708)

Guru Govind Singh, the tenth and last Sikh Guru, was a visionary leader who played a significant role in shaping Sikh identity and principles. His life and teachings continue to inspire millions of Sikhs worldwide. Let’s delve into the various aspects of Guru Govind Singh’s life and contributions:

A. Verses and Writings by Guru Govind Singh

• Guru Govind Singh was not only a spiritual leader but also a prolific writer and poet.
• He composed numerous hymns and verses that are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.

B. Founding the Khalsa and the Five Beloved Ones

• In 1699, Guru Govind Singh founded the Khalsa, a community of initiated Sikhs who are committed to upholding the principles of Sikhism.
• The founding of the Khalsa is marked by the historic event of the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), who were the first initiated members of the Khalsa.

C. Baptism and Initiation into the Khalsa

• Guru Govind Singh introduced the ceremony of Amrit Sanchar, also known as Khalsa baptism, as a rite of initiation into the Khalsa community.
• The ceremony involves the preparation of Amrit (sweet nectar) and the recitation of specific prayers to signify a commitment to the Sikh way of life.

D. Introduction of the Five Ks

• The Guru mandated the observance of the Five Ks, which are five articles of faith that initiated Sikhs are expected to wear and carry at all times. These include:

1. Kesh: Uncut hair, a symbol of spiritual acceptance and respect for the body as created by God.
2. Kangha: A wooden comb, representing discipline and cleanliness.
3. Kara: A steel bracelet, symbolizing unity and strength.
4. Kachera: A specific type of undergarment, denoting modesty and self-restraint.
5. Kirpan: A ceremonial sword, signifying the duty to protect the weak and uphold justice.

E. Prohibition on Liquor and Tobacco

• Guru Govind Singh emphasized the importance of abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, as these substances are believed to cloud one’s judgment and impede spiritual progress.

F. Emphasis on Equality and Rejection of Caste System

• The Guru vehemently rejected the caste system and propagated the idea of the equality of all human beings.
• He actively worked to eliminate social discrimination and fostered an inclusive and egalitarian Sikh community.

G. Guru Granth Sahib as the Final Sikh Guru

• Before his passing in 1708, Guru Govind Singh declared that after him, the Guru Granth Sahib, containing the teachings of the previous Gurus, would be the eternal Guru for Sikhs.

H. Battles and Struggles for Sikh Independence

• Guru Govind Singh faced numerous challenges and engaged in battles to defend the principles of Sikhism and protect the rights of the oppressed.
• His leadership inspired the Sikh community to resist oppression and fight for their religious and political freedom.

Guru Govind Singh’s legacy continues to be celebrated by Sikhs during the annual festival of Guru Purab. His teachings of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to righteousness resonate with followers, inspiring them to lead a life guided by Sikh principles.

XI. Conclusion

A. Impact and Legacy of the Sikh Gurus

The legacy of the Sikh Gurus is profound and enduring. Through their teachings and actions, they transformed the spiritual and social landscape of India, leaving a lasting impact on the Sikh community and beyond. Some key points of their impact and legacy include:

• Spiritual Revival: The Gurus’ teachings and hymns provided spiritual guidance and revitalized the faith of their followers, instilling a sense of devotion, righteousness, and compassion.
• Social Reforms: The Gurus challenged social inequalities, caste discrimination, and gender biases prevalent during their time. Their emphasis on equality and community service laid the foundation for a more inclusive and just society.
• Formation of Sikh Identity: The Gurus played a pivotal role in shaping Sikh identity, from Guru Nanak’s emphasis on the oneness of God to Guru Gobind Singh’s establishment of the Khalsa. These elements continue to define Sikhism today.
• Literary Contributions: The Gurus’ hymns and writings, compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, serve as a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration for Sikhs worldwide.

B. Evolution of the Khalsa Panth

The formation of the Khalsa Panth under Guru Gobind Singh marked a significant turning point in Sikh history. The Khalsa emerged as a community of initiated Sikhs dedicated to upholding the principles of Sikhism. Its evolution and impact include:

• Spiritual Warrior Tradition: The Khalsa embraced a unique identity as spiritual warriors, committed to defending the innocent and upholding justice.
• Preservation of Sikh Identity: The Khalsa played a vital role in safeguarding Sikh beliefs, traditions, and culture during times of persecution and political turmoil.
• Promotion of Sikh Values: Through the observance of the Five Ks and adherence to the Sikh code of conduct, the Khalsa continued to promote the core values of Sikhism.

C. Significance of Sikhism in Indian History and Thought

Sikhism holds immense historical and philosophical significance in the Indian context. It has influenced various aspects of Indian history and thought:

• Sikh Empire: The Sikh Empire, under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, emerged as a formidable power in the early 19th century, encompassing vast territories in the northwest of India.
• Interfaith Relations: Sikhism’s emphasis on the unity of all religions and the rejection of religious dogma has fostered harmonious interfaith relations in the Indian subcontinent.
• Social Harmony: Sikhism’s promotion of social equality and its tradition of Langar (community kitchen) have contributed to fostering social harmony and inclusivity.
• Contribution to Indian Literature: The Gurus’ hymns and writings have enriched Indian literature and continue to be studied and appreciated for their literary and spiritual significance.

In conclusion, the Sikh Gurus’ teachings and contributions have left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring millions of followers to lead lives guided by compassion, equality, and devotion to the divine. The formation of the Khalsa and the evolution of Sikhism have ensured the preservation of Sikh identity and values through the centuries. Moreover, Sikhism’s impact on Indian history and thought has been significant, promoting interfaith dialogue and social harmony. As Sikhs continue to uphold the teachings of their Gurus and embrace their rich heritage, the legacy of Sikhism remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for humanity.

1. Analyze Guru Nanak’s philosophy on the Oneness of God (Ik Onkar) and its significance in shaping the core principles of Sikhism. (250 words)
2. Assess the impact of Guru Arjan Dev’s compilation of Adi Granth with hymns of all five Gurus on the evolution and expansion of Sikhism as a distinct religious tradition. (250 words)
3. Critically examine the role of Guru Govind Singh in founding the Khalsa and the implementation of the Five Ks as symbols of Sikh identity and spirituality. (250 words)