AMAR PAD or amarapad, also called parampada (highest step), tunapada or turiavastha, is the stage of deathlessness or immortality. In the Guru Granth Sahib the term has been used for the highest stage of spiritual enlightenment which is also the highest state of self realization, equivalent of Godrealization. This is the stage of ultimate release. See MUKTI and JIVANMUKT
Amar Pad
The Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhism, is a profound guide to spiritual enlightenment, offering universal wisdom through its hymns and teachings. Among its many powerful references is Amar Pad, a concept that holds deep mythological and spiritual significance. Translating to “immortal state” or “eternal abode,” Amar Pad represents the highest spiritual achievement—the liberation of the soul and union with the Divine.
The term Amar Pad reflects the yearning for eternal life and freedom from the cycle of birth and death—a central theme across many spiritual traditions. In Sikh philosophy, this state of immortality is not the perpetuation of physical life but the ultimate liberation of the soul through divine grace and complete selflessness.
Mythologically, Amar Pad is often linked to the spiritual realm of gods and ascended beings. It symbolizes the transcendence of worldly attachments and the attainment of pure, eternal bliss. Within the Guru Granth Sahib, Amar Pad serves as a poetic metaphor for the pinnacle of spiritual realization. It is the state that every seeker aspires to achieve by overcoming ego, desires, and material distractions, and by fully immersing oneself in devotion and the remembrance of God.
The hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib emphasize that Amar Pad is accessible to all, regardless of caste, creed, or status. The Gurus teach that through Naam Simran (meditative remembrance of the Divine Name), selfless service, and righteous living, individuals can rise above their limitations and realize this immortal state. In this sense, Amar Pad is not just a distant goal but an achievable reality for those who wholeheartedly dedicate themselves to spiritual discipline.
Through its references to Amar Pad, the Guru Granth Sahib exemplifies its inclusive ethos, inspiring seekers to embrace their journey toward divine union. This concept transcends religious boundaries, reminding humanity of the shared aspiration for spiritual enlightenment and eternal freedom.
In conclusion, Amar Pad in the Guru Granth Sahib is a powerful symbol of liberation and divine connection. It encourages individuals to strive for spiritual excellence and to align their lives with virtues of humility, devotion, and compassion. This timeless metaphor serves as a guiding light for humanity in its pursuit of eternal truth and bliss.
