ADI GRANTH. See SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB
The Adi Granth, literally meaning “the First Book,” is the earliest written version of the central religious scripture of Sikhism. Compiled in 1604 by Guru Arjan Dev—the fifth Sikh Guru—it was designed to preserve the hymns and teachings of the Sikh Gurus, along with devotional compositions from various Hindu and Muslim saints. Later, the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, added further hymns and formally declared the scripture as the eternal Guru, after which it became known as the Guru Granth Sahib.
Key features include:
Compilation and Authorship:
Initiated by Guru Arjan Dev, the Adi Granth brought together devotional poetry and hymns of the first five Sikh Gurus along with selected writings from other saint-poets. This eclectic compilation reflects the Sikh ethos of inclusivity and spiritual universality.
Literary Composition:
The scripture is arranged according to musical measures known as ragas, guiding the melodic rendition of its hymns during recitation. Written primarily in Gurmukhi, it also incorporates words and expressions from Sanskrit, Persian, Arabic, and other languages of the time, embodying a rich linguistic and cultural synthesis.
Spiritual and Ritual Significance:
Beyond its role as a repository of religious teachings, the Adi Granth is revered as a living Guru by the Sikh community. It is central to Sikh worship, with habitual ritual readings (known as Akhand Path) and daily recitations in Gurdwaras—a testimony to its enduring spiritual authority. Exploration
Historical and Theological Impact:
The compilation of the Adi Granth marked a turning point in Sikh history. It offered a means of preserving the oral traditions and devotional expressions of the Sikh Gurus at a time when such teachings might have otherwise been lost. By incorporating verses from diverse spiritual traditions, the Adi Granth affirmed a vision of universal brotherhood and emphasized that truth transcends religious boundaries. This inclusive approach has had a lasting influence on Sikh theology and identity.
Structure and Aesthetic Organization:
The scripture’s organization by raga not only lends it a distinct aesthetic quality but also demonstrates the sophisticated interplay between art and spirituality in Sikh practice. Each hymn serves both as a poetic expression and as an instruction in living a life devoted to inner truth (simran) and selfless service (seva). The musical arrangement helps devotees connect emotionally with the divine, enhancing the meditative and communal aspects of Sikh worship.
Ritual and Community Life:
For Sikhs, the Adi Granth is more than a book; it is the eternal Guru. Its centrality in daily life is evident in the way it is ceremonially installed, ritually opened in the morning, and respectfully put away at night. This constant presence reinforces the lived experience of the teachings, providing guidance in matters of ethics, devotion, and communal living.
Continuing Legacy:
The principles encapsulated in the Adi Granth continue to shape not only religious observance but also the cultural and social ethos of Sikh communities around the world. Its emphasis on equality, justice, and the search for truth remains a powerful beacon in a rapidly changing world—encouraging adherents to look beyond superficial differences and focus on universal human values.
