Guru Arjan Dev Ji was fifth Guru of the eleven Sikh Gurus. Born in Goindval, Punjab, he was the youngest son of Guru Ram Das Sahib Ji and Bibi Bhani Ji. Bibi Bhani ji was the daughter of Guru Amar Das. Guru Arjan became the fifth Guru on September 1st, 1581 after the death of his father Guru Ram Das.
Guru Arjun Dev Martyrdom Day
Guru Arjan Dev was the first Sikh Guru to be executed. One most important work done by Guru Arjan Dev is the compilation of the Adi Granth. He collected all the deeds of  the earlier four Gurus and had them written down in the form of verses in 1604. He added the teachings of the Hindu and the Muslim saints in the compilation. In 1606, Guru Arjan Dev was punished by the Mughal emperor Jagangir for refusing to remove the teachings of the Muslim saints from the compilation and tortured the Guru, which eventually led to his death. Since 1606, his martyrdom is observed every year on June 16 by the Sikhs. 

The significance of Guru Arjan Dev's life and legacy is profound in Sikh history and spirituality:

Compilation of Adi Granth: Guru Arjan Dev compiled the Adi Granth, the foundational scripture of Sikhism, which contains the teachings of Sikh Gurus as well as selected writings from Hindu and Muslim saints. This compilation was a pivotal moment in Sikh history, emphasizing the unity of all spiritual paths.

Promotion of Sikhism: He played a crucial role in promoting Sikhism as a distinct religion with its own identity and principles. His efforts helped Sikhism gain recognition and respect in the region.

Martyrdom: Guru Arjan Dev became the first Sikh Guru to be martyred. His refusal to convert to Islam and his enduring faith despite severe torture and persecution are seen as a testament to Sikh values of resilience, courage, and standing up for truth.

Legacy of Peace and Harmony: Guru Arjan Dev emphasized the importance of service (seva), compassion, and equality. His teachings continue to inspire Sikhs and others around the world to uphold these values and work towards social justice and harmony.

Before he died, Guru Arjan Dev passed the light to his son Guru Har Gobind, as the next Guru. The city of Amritsar was constructed by the Guru. He also founded other cities like Taran and Kartarpur.

Guru Arjan Dev organized a system called masand, where a group of representatives taught and spread the teachings of the Gurus and they received a partial offering of Sikh s income called as Dasyand which can be treated in terms of monetary values, goods or can be services. These are paid by Sikhs to support the building of Gurudwara Sahib, Guru Ka Langar which are called as communal kitchens.

Sharing intends to spread love, respect and equality. Langars are open to any visitor who visits the Gurudwara, which signifies the casteless society and equality for all human beings. The land which is known as Amritsar today was gifted by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. He was very impressed by practice of sharing food by sitting on the floor like a common man, in the Guru s kitchen.

The Punya Tithi or the death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev is observed with reverence and solemnity among Sikhs. Here's how it is typically commemorated:

  1. Prayers and Kirtan: Sikhs gather at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) to recite prayers and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib. Kirtan (devotional singing) sessions are held to remember Guru Arjan Dev's teachings and his contributions to Sikhism.

  2. Langar: A community kitchen (langar) is organized where volunteers prepare and serve free meals to all visitors, regardless of their background. This practice exemplifies the principles of equality and service that Guru Arjan Dev emphasized.

  3. Discourses and Lectures: Religious discourses and lectures are delivered by scholars and spiritual leaders, focusing on the life, teachings, and legacy of Guru Arjan Dev. These sessions aim to inspire and educate attendees about his spiritual depth and contributions.

  4. Seva (Selfless Service): Many Sikhs participate in seva activities such as cleaning the Gurdwara premises, assisting in the langar, or helping with organizing the commemorative events. This act of selfless service is seen as a way to honor Guru Arjan Dev's emphasis on seva.

  5. Reflection and Contemplation: The day is also a time for personal reflection and contemplation for Sikhs, who ponder upon Guru Arjan Dev's sacrifices, his unwavering faith, and the enduring principles he stood for.

Guru Arjan Dev was very famous among his followers. He ardently taught and spread the message of the teachings and philosophy of Guru Nanak. The celebration of Guru Arjan Dev's Punya Tithi is marked by spiritual devotion, communal unity, and a reaffirmation of Sikh values. It serves as a reminder to uphold the teachings of Guru Arjan Dev in daily life and to strive for justice, compassion, and harmony in society.

इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें

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