10 Sikh Gurus | Study Material for UPSC State PSC

Sikhism

• Sikhism is a religion that originated in the Punjab region.
• Adherents of Sikhism are known as Sikhs (‘students’ or ‘disciples’ of the Guru). 
• The Sikh Gurus are the spiritual masters of Sikhism.
• Guru Nanak (1469–1539) was the faith’s first guru.
• He was succeeded by nine other gurus.
• The tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708), named Guru Granth Sahib as his successor which is now considered the living Guru by Sikhs.

Sikh Gurus

Guru Nanak Dev Ji

• Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469 at Talvandi village (present-day Nankana Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan).
• His father was a local patwari (accountant) for crop revenue in the village of Talwandi.
• His birth is celebrated worldwide as Guru Nanak Gurpurab.
• He appointed Bhai Lehna as his successor, renaming him as Guru Angad.
• Guru Nanak died on 22 September 1539 in Kartarpur.
• Guru Nanak’s teachings revolved around the central concept of “Ik Onkar” (There is one God), emphasizing the oneness of God and the unity of all creation. He rejected the rituals and superstitions prevalent in society.
• The Divine Call (Sach Khand): At the age of 30, Guru Nanak disappeared into the river Bein for three days, where he experienced a divine revelation. Upon emerging, he proclaimed, “There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim,” highlighting the universality of his message and the unity of all religions.
• Travels (Udasis): He travels to various parts of India, as well as to Mecca, Baghdad, Tibet, and Sri Lanka. During his journeys, he engaged in dialogues with people from diverse backgrounds, challenging social norms and promoting religious harmony.

Guru Angad

• Guru Angad Dev Ji was born as Lehna on March 31, 1504, in the village of Matte Di Sarai, near Muktsar in present-day Punjab, India.
• He was a devout follower of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and served as a dedicated disciple.
• He emphasized the importance of community living (Sangat) and the practice of naam simran (meditation on the Divine Name).
• Guru Angad Dev Ji also initiated the tradition of sangat and pangat, where Sikhs gathered to worship and share meals regardless of their social status.
• He established schools (Dharamsala) to impart education in Punjabi and Gurmukhi script, promoting literacy among the Sikh community. His efforts laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of the Gurmukhi script as the medium for writing the Sikh scriptures.
• Guru Angad Dev Ji played a crucial role in preserving and organizing the sacred hymns (Gurbani) composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He collected these hymns and added his compositions to create a cohesive body of spiritual literature known as the Pothi Sahib or the Adi Granth. This compilation served as the precursor to the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
• Guru Angad Dev Ji recognized the importance of physical fitness and well-being in leading a balanced life. He encouraged Sikhs to engage in physical exercises, particularly wrestling (Pehlwani), as a means of promoting health and discipline.

Guru Amar

• Born in 1479 in Basarke village in present-day Punjab, India.
• Led a devout and pious life from a young age, deeply influenced by the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Angad Dev Ji.
• Initially a devotee of the Hindu deity Vishnu.
• Recognized for his humility, devotion, and selfless service, he was appointed as the third Guru of Sikhism by Guru Angad Dev Ji.
• Introduced the concept of “langar,” a community kitchen where people of all backgrounds could eat together, promoting social equality and unity.
• Advocated for the empowerment of women and discouraged discriminatory practices like purdah (veiling) and sati (widow immolation).
• Guru Amar Das Ji founded the town of Goindwal and constructed a Baoli (stepped well) known as “Baoli Sahib,” which became a center for spiritual gatherings and meditation.
• Introduced administrative reforms within the Sikh community, including the division of Sikh society into 22 Manjis (administrative units) to facilitate spiritual guidance and community development.

Guru Ram Das

• Born in 1534 in Lahore, present-day Pakistan.
• Born as Bhai Jetha, he was deeply influenced by the teachings of Guru Amar Das Ji and became a devoted disciple.
• Recognized for his humility, devotion, and service, he was appointed as the fourth Guru of Sikhism by Guru Amar Das Ji.
• Promoted the concept of “Guru ka Langar” (community kitchen) as a symbol of equality and inclusivity, where people of all backgrounds could share meals together.
• Founded the city of Amritsar in 1577 and initiated the construction of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), which became the spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism.

Guru Arjan Dev

• Born on April 15, 1563, in Goindval, present-day India, as the youngest son of Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of Sikhism.
• From a young age, he displayed a deep sense of spirituality and devotion to the Sikh faith, under the guidance of his father and predecessors.
• Guru Arjan Dev Ji was appointed as the fifth Guru of Sikhism by his father, Guru Ram Das Ji, following his passing in 1581.
• Guru Arjan Dev Ji faced martyrdom in 1606 under the orders of Emperor Jahangir, who perceived Sikhism as a threat to his rule. He sacrificed his life for the principles of religious freedom, equality, and justice.

Guru Hargobind

• Birth and Early Life:
  • Born on June 19, 1595, in Guru ki Wadali, near Amritsar.
  • Guru Hargobind was the only son of Guru Arjan Dev and Mata Ganga.
• Becoming Guru:
  • Became the sixth Guru of the Sikhs at the age of 11 on May 25, 1606, following the execution of his father, Guru Arjan Dev, by the Mughal emperor Jahangir.
  • The event of his father’s martyrdom deeply influenced his future actions and policies.
• Introduction of Militarization:
  • Guru Hargobind introduced a new martial aspect to Sikhism, emphasizing the need for self-defense and the protection of the Sikh community.
  • He adopted the practice of wearing two swords, symbolizing the concepts of “miri” (temporal power) and “piri” (spiritual authority).
• Establishment of the Akal Takht:
  • Constructed the Akal Takht (Throne of the Timeless One) in 1609 in front of the Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar.
  • The Akal Takht became a significant institution for Sikh temporal and spiritual matters and remains the highest seat of earthly authority in Sikhism.
• Military Engagements:
  • Guru Hargobind fortified the city of Amritsar and maintained a standing army to defend against Mughal oppression.
  • Fought several battles against the Mughal forces, including notable conflicts at Amritsar, Kartarpur, and Hargobindpur.
  • Despite the militarization, he continued to uphold Sikh spiritual teachings and moral values.
• Captivity and Release:
  • In 1612, Guru Hargobind was imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by Jahangir due to growing suspicion and his rising influence.
  • He was released after several years, during which he gained the respect of fellow prisoners and continued to advocate for justice and righteousness.

Guru Har Rai: The Seventh Sikh Guru

Early Life:

• Born on January 16, 1630, in Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab.
• Guru Har Rai was the grandson of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru, and was deeply influenced by his grandfather’s teachings and lifestyle.
• From a young age, he exhibited a gentle nature and a deep interest in spirituality.

Becoming Guru:

• Ascended as the seventh Guru of the Sikhs on March 3, 1644, following the passing of his grandfather, Guru Hargobind.
• His succession continued the line of Gurus committed to both spiritual and temporal well-being of the Sikh community.

Promoting Peace and Compassion:

• Guru Har Rai is remembered for his emphasis on compassion, humility, and the welfare of all beings.
• Unlike his predecessor, he refrained from direct military engagements but maintained a strong army for defense and protection of his followers.
• He was known for his efforts to preserve the environment, promoting the planting of trees and herbal gardens.

Contribution to Sikh Scholarship:

• Under his guidance, the spread of Sikh teachings was facilitated through the establishment of multiple centers of learning and the continued support of missionary work.
• He encouraged the study of Sikh scriptures and the composition of hymns that highlighted the universal message of Sikhism.

Engagement with the Mughal Empire:

• Although Guru Har Rai maintained a peaceful stance, he skillfully navigated the complex political landscape of the time, including interactions with the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
• Notably, he aided Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, by providing him with medical assistance during his conflict with Aurangzeb.

Guru Har Krishan: The Eighth Sikh Guru

Early Life:

• Born on July 7, 1656, in Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab.
• Guru Har Krishan was the younger son of Guru Har Rai and Mata Sulakhni.
• From a very young age, he exhibited profound spiritual insight and wisdom, earning the admiration of his family and followers.

Becoming Guru:

• Ascended as the eighth Guru of the Sikhs on October 20, 1661, at the tender age of five, following the wishes of his father, Guru Har Rai.
• His appointment as Guru was met with skepticism by some, including his elder brother Ram Rai, but his spiritual maturity quickly reassured his followers.

Compassion and Service:

• Guru Har Krishan is especially remembered for his compassion towards the suffering and his selfless service to humanity.
• During a severe outbreak of smallpox in Delhi, he is known to have tirelessly tended to the sick and offered comfort and solace, regardless of caste or creed.
• His dedication to serving the afflicted earned him the affectionate title “Bala Pritam” (Beloved Child).

Interaction with the Mughal Court:

• Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor, invited Guru Har Krishan to his court, possibly to test his spiritual prowess or to assert his authority.
• Although Guru Har Krishan accepted the invitation, he used the opportunity to underscore Sikh principles and avoided being coerced into political or religious traps.

Tragic Demise:

• While in Delhi, Guru Har Krishan contracted smallpox, the very disease he had been helping others combat.
• He succumbed to the illness on March 30, 1664, at the young age of eight, after a brief yet impactful tenure as Guru.
• On his deathbed, Guru Har Krishan indicated that his successor would be found in Bakala, hinting towards the next Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, who would emerge from there.

Guru Tegh Bahadur: The Ninth Sikh Guru

Early Life:

• Born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Punjab.
• Originally named Tyaga Mal, he was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, and Mata Nanaki.
• Known for his meditative nature, he was given the name “Tegh Bahadur” (Brave Sword) by Guru Hargobind after displaying valor in the battle of Kartarpur at a young age.

Spiritual Journey:

• Despite his warrior upbringing, Guru Tegh Bahadur was inclined towards a life of deep contemplation and spirituality.
• He spent many years in the town of Bakala, engaging in meditation and contributing to the spiritual discourse.

Becoming Guru:

• Ascended as the ninth Guru of the Sikhs on August 11, 1664, following the death of Guru Har Krishan, who hinted that his successor would be found in Bakala.
• His succession was confirmed after a notable event where Makhan Shah, a devotee, identified him by his divine insight amidst other claimants.

Contributions and Travels:

• Guru Tegh Bahadur traveled extensively across the Indian subcontinent, spreading the teachings of Sikhism and establishing new Sikh communities.
• His journeys included regions like Assam, Bihar, and the Deccan, where he preached the importance of faith, courage, and righteousness.
• He established the town of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, which became an important center for Sikh activities and later played a crucial role in Sikh history.

Defense of Religious Freedom:

• Guru Tegh Bahadur is revered for his defense of the rights of people to freely practice their religion, a stand he took during the oppressive reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
• When Kashmiri Pandits appealed to him for help against forced conversions to Islam, Guru Tegh Bahadur courageously stood against Aurangzeb’s edicts.
• He declared that if he could be convinced to convert, they would follow, thus presenting himself as a shield for their religious freedom.

Martyrdom:

• Arrested and brought to Delhi, he was subjected to severe torture but remained steadfast in his principles.
• Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed on November 24, 1675, at Chandni Chowk, Delhi, after refusing to convert to Islam.
• His martyrdom is seen as a pivotal sacrifice for the protection of religious freedom and human rights.

Guru Gobind Singh: The Tenth Sikh Guru

Early Life:

• Born on December 22, 1666, in Patna, Bihar.
• Originally named Gobind Rai, he was the only son of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, and Mata Gujri.
• Moved to Anandpur Sahib in Punjab in 1672, where he received education in languages, literature, military skills, and spiritual teachings.

Becoming Guru:

• Ascended as the tenth Guru of the Sikhs on November 11, 1675, following the martyrdom of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
• At the young age of nine, he took on the leadership role, continuing his father’s legacy of defending religious freedom and justice.

Foundation of the Khalsa:

• On March 30, 1699, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa (the pure), a warrior community dedicated to upholding righteousness and protecting the oppressed.
• In a dramatic ceremony at Anandpur Sahib, he initiated the first five members, known as the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), who volunteered to sacrifice their lives.
• He introduced the “Five Ks” (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, and Kirpan), the physical symbols of Khalsa identity and commitment to faith.
• He also changed his name from Gobind Rai to Gobind Singh, signifying his commitment to the Khalsa and equality among all.

Leadership and Military Engagements:

• Guru Gobind Singh led the Sikhs through numerous battles against the Mughal forces and regional hill chiefs who sought to suppress Sikh power and influence.
• Notable battles include those at Bhangani, Anandpur Sahib, Chamkaur, and Muktsar, where his leadership and strategic acumen were pivotal in maintaining Sikh resistance.
• Despite continuous persecution, he remained resilient, advocating for the principles of justice, self-defense, and protection of the downtrodden.

Creation of the Dasam Granth:

• Guru Gobind Singh was a prolific poet and writer, contributing significantly to Sikh literature.
• His writings, compiled in the Dasam Granth, include theological works, hymns, and narratives that reflect his deep spiritual insight and vision for a just society.
• The text emphasizes bravery, moral values, and devotion to God.

Final Guru and Establishment of Guru Granth Sahib:

• Before his death, Guru Gobind Singh declared that the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs, would be the eternal Guru after him.
• This act formalized the scripture as the spiritual and moral guide for Sikhs, ensuring the continuity of Sikh teachings and practices.

Martyrdom of His Family:

• Guru Gobind Singh’s life was marked by personal tragedy, including the martyrdom of his four sons, known as the Sahibzade.
• His two elder sons, Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh, died heroically in battle at Chamkaur.
• His younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were brutally executed by the Mughal authorities for refusing to renounce their faith.

Assassination and Legacy:

• Guru Gobind Singh was fatally wounded on October 7, 1708, by an assassin sent by the Mughal ruler Wazir Khan, in Nanded, Maharashtra.
• He passed away on October 7, 1708, but his legacy endures through his profound impact on Sikhism.
• His establishment of the Khalsa and the principles of equality, courage, and spiritual sovereignty continue to inspire Sikhs worldwide.
• He is remembered for his unwavering dedication to justice, his literary contributions, and his role in solidifying Sikh identity and community resilience.

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