
Guru Granth Sahib is the only scripture of its kind which not only contains the works of its own religious founders but also writings of people from other faiths. The book is held in great reverence by Sikhs and is treated as the living Guru of the Sikhs. Guru Granth Sahib is a collection of devotional hymns and poetry which proclaims God, lays stress on meditation on the True Guru (God), and lays down moral and ethical rules for development of the soul, spiritual salvation and unity with God.
Structure of Guru Granth Sahib
The sacred book of the Sikhs contains four poems of Trilochan, 62 of Namadeva and 240 Sakhis and 227 padas of Kabir. Most of the characteristic teachings of Sikhism like monotheism, crusade against idolatry and caste, externalism (bhaiachara) and ritualism could be easily traced to these saint poets, especially Kabir.
Composition of Guru Granth Sahib
Guru Granth Sahib was composed in 1604 by Guru Arjan Dev with assistance of one of the great devotees by the name Bhai Gurdas. It was written in Gurmukhi Script so that the Sikhs may remain Guru-centred. Guru Granth Sahib includes not only the compositions of Gurus but also of many Saint Poets. It includes verses of Ramanand, Jaideva, Namadeva, Trilochan, Veni, Dhanna, Pipa, Sain, Kabir, Rai Das, Shaikh Bhikhaji, Sadhna, Surdas, and Poona Nane and also some of Muslim Sufis.
The compositions of the Guru Granth Sahib, is of inestimable significance. It is all composed in mystic poetry. It is cast into 31 musical measures (Ragas). It is a natural flow of the divine ecstasy of Lovers of God.
Message of Guru Granth Sahib
It is a Divine Treasure of synthetic embrace of the whole global community. The Holy book of the Sikhs is a paradise of spiritual harmony. True integration, harmony and unity can only usher in, on a solid foundation of Love. This Love stands out beautifully, harmoniously, synthetically in its pristine purity and glory in Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Granth Sahib serves as a living Guru for the Sikhs and helps them to walk in the right direction.
(Last Updated on : 4/05/2011)