BIR, a term used for a recension or copy of the Guru Granth Sahib, is derived from Skt. verb vid meaning “to make strong or firm, strengthen, fasten, or to be strong, firm or hard.” The Punjabi verb birana which means “to fix, bind or fasten (something) firmly, or to lay (a gun)” is from the same root. Guru Arjan having compiled the Holy Book deputed one of his leading disciples, Bhai Banno, to go and get the volume bound in Lahore, perhaps because facilities for proper binding did not then exist at Amritsar.
Bhai Banno utilized the opportunity to have another copy transcribed and he got both volumes “fastened and bound.” These bound copies came to be called the Adi Bir and Bhai Bannovali Bir. Further copies made from these two recensions were also called bfrs. For birs (recensions) of Sikh Scripture, see SRi GURU GRANTH SAHIB. The word for in Punjabi is also used for reserved forest or village land set aside as common pasture.
Bir : A Sacred Compilation
In Sikhism, the term Bir refers to a recension or copy of the Guru Granth Sahib, the central scripture of the Sikh faith. Derived from the Sanskrit root vid, meaning “to make strong or firm,” the word Bir signifies the sacred and enduring nature of these manuscripts. Each Bir is a revered embodiment of the Guru’s teachings and holds immense spiritual and historical significance.
Historical Context
The first Bir, known as the Adi Bir or Kartarpuri Bir, was compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, in 1604 CE. This monumental task involved collecting the hymns (bani) of the Sikh Gurus and other enlightened saints, organizing them into a structured format, and entrusting Bhai Gurdas to scribe the manuscript. The Adi Bir was later installed at the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar, marking a pivotal moment in Sikh history.
Another significant recension is the Bhai Banno Bir, created by Bhai Banno, a devoted Sikh of Guru Arjan. While it closely resembles the Adi Bir, it includes additional hymns not found in the original compilation, leading to debates about its authenticity.
Significance of Bir
Spiritual Authority: Each Bir is considered a living Guru, embodying the divine wisdom and guidance of the Sikh Gurus. Sikhs bow before the Guru Granth Sahib as a mark of reverence and seek its teachings for spiritual growth.
Preservation of Teachings: The meticulous compilation and preservation of Birs ensure the continuity and authenticity of Sikh teachings across generations.
Cultural Heritage: Ancient Birs, such as the Kartarpuri Bir, are invaluable artifacts that provide insights into the history, language, and scriptural traditions of Sikhism.
Modern Context
Today, printed copies of the Guru Granth Sahib are widely available, but the sanctity of handwritten Birs remains unparalleled. These manuscripts are preserved in gurdwaras and museums, serving as a testament to the devotion and dedication of early Sikh scribes.
The concept of Bir in Sikhism underscores the profound respect for sacred texts and the enduring legacy of the Guru’s teachings. It is a reminder of the spiritual and cultural richness that defines the Sikh faith
