October 7 marks the death anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, the revered tenth and final human Sikh Guru, who passed away in 1708. Known for his multifaceted persona as a warrior, poet, philosopher, and spiritual leader, Guru Gobind Singh’s legacy continues to inspire the Sikh community and others around the world. This day, also referred to as Guru Gaddi Diwas, is a solemn occasion when Sikhs gather at gurudwaras to offer prayers and reflect on his contributions to the faith.
Founding the Khalsa and the Five Articles of Faith
One of Guru Gobind Singh’s most significant achievements was the founding of the Khalsa in 1699, a warrior community dedicated to upholding righteousness and justice. The creation of the Khalsa was a defining moment for the Sikh community, marking the formalisation of their identity. Guru Gobind Singh introduced the “Five Ks” or the five articles of faith, which became the hallmark of the Sikh identity. These include:
- Kesh (uncut hair) – Symbolising spirituality and respect for God’s creation.
- Kanga (wooden comb) – A symbol of cleanliness and order.
- Kara (iron bracelet) – A reminder of commitment to righteousness.
- Kirpan (dagger) – Signifying courage and defense of the weak.
- Kachera (short breeches) – Representing modesty and self-control.
The Khalsa warriors, bound by these principles, were expected to abstain from tobacco, alcohol, and halal meat. They were also entrusted with the duty to protect the innocent from persecution.
Literary Contributions
Apart from his martial leadership, Guru Gobind Singh made invaluable contributions to Sikh literature. His works include the Jaap Sahib, Tav-Prasad Savaiye, Chandi Di Var, Akal Ustat, and Bachittar Natak, which are revered to this day for their philosophical and spiritual depth. His Zafarnama, a letter written to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, remains a powerful testimony to his unwavering spirit and commitment to justice, despite facing immense personal losses in battles.
Battle and Sacrifice
Guru Gobind Singh’s life was marked by immense sacrifice and struggle. In 1704, during the Battle of Anandpur, his two younger sons and mother were executed by the Mughals, while his eldest son died in battle. His courage and resilience were further demonstrated in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705, where the Sikh forces faced the Mughal army.
Despite these personal tragedies, Guru Gobind Singh continued to lead the Sikhs with determination. Before his assassination in 1708 by two Afghan men, Jamshed Khan and Wasil Beg, at Nanded in Maharashtra, he declared that the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred text of the Sikhs, would be the eternal Guru, ensuring that the Sikh faith would be guided by the teachings of the scriptures rather than a human leader.
Words of Wisdom
Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings continue to resonate today. His sayings, extracted from his writings, offer profound insights into life, righteousness, and spiritual humility. Some of his notable quotes include:
- “I came into the world charged with the duty to uphold the right in every place, to destroy sin and evil… the only reason I took birth was to see that righteousness may flourish, that good may live, and tyrants be torn out by their roots.”
- “He alone is a man who keeps his word: Not that he has one thing in the heart, and another on the tongue.”
- “If you are strong, torture not the weak, and thus lay not the axe to thy empire.”
- “Those who call me God, will fall into the deep pit of hell. Regard me as one of His slaves and have no doubt whatever about it. I am a servant of the Supreme Being; and have come to behold the wonderful drama of life.”
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