By the late 16th century, the hymns of the Sikh Gurus were spreading far and wide, but Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru, noticed a growing challenge. Various individuals were circulating spurious verses under the names of the Gurus, threatening the purity of the divine message. To preserve the authentic word of God, Guru Arjan Dev Ji undertook the monumental task of compiling the Adi Granth. He personally collected the original pothis (volumes) of the previous Gurus, even visiting Baba Mohan Ji to acquire the Goindval Pothis. He didn't stop there; he also gathered the spiritual verses of Hindu Bhagats and Muslim Sufis whose teachings aligned with the oneness of God. Sitting by the tranquil waters of Ramsar Sarovar in Amritsar, Guru Arjan Dev Ji dictated the sacred verses while the great scholar Bhai Gurdas Ji transcribed them. Completed in 1604, this holy volume was installed in the Harmandir Sahib with great reverence. Baba Buddha Ji was appointed as the first Granthi. Later, the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, added the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and declared the scripture as the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs, naming it the Guru Granth Sahib.
True spiritual wisdom is universal and transcends all religious boundaries, serving as a guiding light for all humanity.
Advertisement
Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib?
The story teaches that divine truth is universal and belongs to all of humanity, regardless of their background. It emphasizes the importance of preserving authentic spiritual wisdom to guide future generations toward peace and equality.
Who were the primary contributors to the compilation?
Guru Arjan Dev Ji compiled the scripture, while Bhai Gurdas Ji served as the primary scribe. It includes the writings of the Sikh Gurus, as well as 15 Bhagats (saints) like Kabir, Namdev, and Ravidas, and several Sufi thinkers.
When and where was the Adi Granth first installed?
The Adi Granth was first installed in the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar in August 1604. This marked a significant milestone in Sikh history, establishing a central focus for Sikh worship and identity.
Who was the first Head Granthi of the Golden Temple?
Baba Buddha Ji, a highly respected and elderly disciple who had served since the time of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was appointed as the first Head Granthi. He carried the scripture on his head during its first ceremonial installation.
Advertisement
