DAS GRANTHI, a pothi, i.e. a small book, containing selected barns or texts from the Dasam Granth. Das, meaning `ten`, here stands for `tenth`, or the Tenth Master`s granth or book to distinguish it from the older Adi Granth, i.e. the first or primary granth ; granth i, a small book (the suffix “I” is generally added to a word in Punjabi to indicate its diminutive form; an exception is the word granthi when it stands for a gurdwara officiant), Das Granthi thus being a small anthology comprising selections from the Dasam Granth of Guru Gobind Singh. Anthologies styled Das Granthi” evidently began to be compiled with a view to making the writings of Guru Gobind Singh which constitute a voluminous granth accessible to beginners and lay readers.
No standardized selections exist, but the Das Granthi in its current form issued under the seal of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee contains eight texts namely, Japu, Shabad Patshahi 10, Akal Ustati, Bachitra Natak, Chandi Charitra I, Chandi Charitra 2, Chandi di Var and Gian Prabodh. Das Granthi is now available in several different recensions, but not without variations in selection. A parallel compilation, Panj Granthi is also in existence that contains selections of barns from the Adi Granth. Selections differ in different editions, but the barns anthologized are usually more than five (pan;).
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Anthology of Das Granthi Texts—a curated collection distilled from the voluminous Dasam Granth, which contains the martial, mystical, and devotional compositions attributed to Guru Gobind Singh. This anthology was developed with the purpose of making the vast writings of the Tenth Guru more accessible to beginners, lay readers, and devotional practitioners.
What Is Das Granthi?
Das Granthi literally means “the small or diminutive book of the Tenth Guru.” Unlike the more extensive Dasam Granth, which encompasses the entire corpus of Guru Gobind Singh’s compositions, the Das Granthi is an anthology—a pocket compilation—that curates selected texts. Its name not only reflects its abbreviated format but also serves to distinguish these writings from the older Adi Granth, the primary Sikh scripture.
The primary aim of the Das Granthi is to offer focused devotional reading and recitation. By presenting a streamlined selection, it helps both new and experienced devotees engage with the key themes and literary treasures of the Dasam Granth without being overwhelmed by its sheer volume.
Historical and Liturgical Background
- Compilation and Purpose:
The tradition of assembling a Das Granthi began as a practical response to the need for a manageable text containing the essential messages of Guru Gobind Singh’s writings. Issued under the seal of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in its current form, the anthology was designed to support devotional recitations, personal meditation, and community kirtan sessions. The selections not only mirror the martial and spiritual ethos of the Tenth Guru but also serve as ethical and inspirational guides in turbulent times. - Textual Considerations:
While there exists no single “standard” Das Granthi—different recensions can include slightly variant selections—the guiding principle remains consistent: to encapsulate the core messages, dramatic narratives, and poetic elegance of the Dasam Granth. In parallel, another anthology called the “Panj Granthi” has been compiled from the Adi Granth, serving a similar function for the primary scriptures.
Contents of the Das Granthi Anthology
Typically, the Das Granthi includes eight key texts (or barns) drawn from the Dasam Granth. Although selections may vary between editions, the following texts are most often anthologized:
- Japu:
A set of meditative hymns designed for the continuous recitation of the Divine Name, fostering internal devotion and mindfulness. - Shabad Patshahi 10:
Verses that outline the spiritual and temporal teachings of Guru Gobind Singh, reflecting on his role as a visionary leader and reformer. - Akal Ustati:
A poetic composition in praise of the timeless, formless One. Its verses exalt the divine attributes and affirm that the Supreme is beyond human limitations. - Bachitra Natak:
An epic narrative that blends humor, drama, and profound symbolism. This text uses creative storytelling to explore themes of cosmic order and divine play. - Chandi Charitra I:
The first of the Chandi narratives, which recount the fierce and heroic exploits of the divine goddess Chandi against demonic forces, reflecting both cosmic battles and inner spiritual warfare. - Chandi Charitra II:
A continuation of the heroic saga, this text deepens the portrayal of Chandi’s valor and her role in restoring dharma by vanquishing forces of chaos. - Chandi di Var:
A lyrical, martial composition that vividly presents the battle of Chandi. Its rhythmic verses serve to inspire valor and a preparedness to confront both external tyranny and inner vices. - Gian Prabodh:
A treatise on wisdom, philosophy, and the nature of knowledge, aimed at guiding the devotee toward understanding the higher truths underlying existence.
The selection of these texts underscores a balanced approach—they include meditative hymns, didactic narratives, epic battles, and philosophical discourses. Together, they embody the rich spectrum of Guru Gobind Singh’s literary genius.
Themes and Devotional Impact
- Accessibility and Practical Devotion:
By condensing a voluminous scripture into a concise anthology, the Das Granthi facilitates daily recitation and study. Devotees find it easier to reflect on the core themes of divine glory, cosmic justice, and inner transformation without delving into the full complexity of the Dasam Granth. - Martial and Mystical Vibrancy:
Many of the texts—particularly the Chandi narratives (Chandi Charitra I & II and Chandi di Var)—exude a martial spirit and serve as motivational hymns. Their vivid portrayals of divine interventions against tyrannical forces have historically inspired the Khalsa spirit and continue to resonate as calls to ethical courage and self-discipline. - Intertwining of Wisdom and Action:
The inclusion of texts like Akal Ustati and Gian Prabodh ensures that the anthology is not solely focused on valor and epic exploits. It also imparts spiritual wisdom, encouraging the spiritual seeker to cultivate values such as humility, devotion, and inner clarity.
Contemporary Relevance
- Devotional Usage:
Today, the Das Granthi serves as an essential resource in various Sikh devotional contexts. It is recited in Gurdwaras, during personal meditation sessions, and in community gatherings, reinforcing the values and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh among new generations. - Cultural Legacy:
The anthology not only preserves the literary legacy of the Dasam Granth but also embodies a dynamic tradition of engagement with the divine. Its martial and mystic components continue to inspire cultural expressions of resilience, ethical living, and spiritual reform. - Pedagogical Value:
For students of Sikh literature and history, the Das Granthi offers an accessible window into the multi-dimensional teachings of Guru Gobind Singh—from poetic meditations to epic battle narratives—making it a vital tool for both devotion and academic study.
