The Guru Granth Sahib
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.4.3
The Guru Granth Sahib
Holy scripture
- The Guru Granth Sahib is the holy scripture of the Sikh faith.
- It is their eternal Guru and ultimate spiritual authority.
- The Guru Granth Sahib contains the teachings of the ten Sikh Gurus.
- These teachings focus on truth, equality, devotion, and service to others.
- The Guru Granth Sahib is the living voice of God’s wisdom.
The eternal Guru
- Before his death, Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, said there would be no more human Gurus.
- He gave the title of “Guru” to the Guru Granth Sahib, making it the eternal guide for all Sikhs.
- Sikhs do not need a living teacher. The teachings within the scripture are their guide for life.
Contents
- The scripture is written mainly in Gurmukhi. Its first line is 'Ik Onkar' (there is only One God).
- It includes hymns (shabads) and poems written not only by Sikh Gurus but also by Hindu and Muslim saints. This shows the Sikh belief in universal truth.
- The book has 1,430 pages. It was completed in 1604.
- Sikhs read from it in Gurdwaras (places of worship). They often sing the verses as kirtan (devotional music).
Reverence
- The Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a raised platform (takht) under a canopy. This symbolises honour.
- Weddings and other important ceremonies begin with readings from the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Sikhs remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the room.
- When not in use, the Guru Granth Sahib is covered with cloths (rumalla).
Test yourself on The Guru Granth Sahib
What is the Guru Granth Sahib?
Who made the Guru Granth Sahib the eternal Guru?
What language is the Guru Granth Sahib written in?
What is correct about the Guru Granth Sahib?