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Significance of Guru Granth Sahib
Significance of Guru Granth Sahib lies in the fact that it has a holistic message and a universal aspect attached to it.

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Significance of Guru Granth SahibThe status of women and caste equality and few other major aspects can be attributed to the Significance of Guru Granth Sahib. One finds an ecumenical aspect attached to it as its authors included six Gurus, fifteen Bhagats or Hindus and Muslims saints, eleven Hindu Brahmin musicians and three Muslims and one Hindu. The Bhagats came from different regional backgrounds as well as belonged to different castes.

The holistic message adds to the rare uniqueness of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. This religious text covers all aspects of human life that also includes man`s relationship with God, the ultimate Reality and the salvation of human beings. The basic contextual issues of their times, the evils of the caste system and the status of women have also been mentioned in the text.

Social equality among human beings has been maintained. It rejects caste-based distinctions, rituals based on karma. Solidarity among all castes was one of the main teachings. It is believed that the foundation of all Human beings have been universal. In the eyes of the Gurus, outcastes were welcome to receive religious support as well as offered the pride of place of a teacher.

Therefore it can be considered that Sri Guru Granth Sahib completely rejects caste-based distinctions and laid the foundation of an alternative social order that was based upon the principles of truth, good actions, and prayer. The basis of the three fundamental concepts, kin karo (work with own hands), namjapo (meditate on God`s name) and vand chako (share food with others). The authors of Sri Guru Granth Sahib laid down the foundation of Sikh praxis as it demanded actual action with the reflection.

The integrity and holiness of the whole creation has been upheld in this text. In several parts the religious leaders of different religions of Guruji`s time have been mentioned who had lost their integrity. Women`s status in society has also been a major concern. Guru Nanak bestowed upon them the premier status.

Thus Guru Granth Sahib is a unique text that is cosmopolitan in nature, gives a holistic universal message. It also deals with doctrinal clarity, caste issues, integrity of creation, status of women, suttee and many more. These issues are even relevant in today`s context too.


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