Surjit Singh Flora
Guru Gobind Singh Ji, a warrior, a saint, a philosopher, a poet, and a Guru, was born in Patna (Bihar) at the site where Takhat Patna Sahib now stands, and he was cherished by all. He was known as Gobind Rai during his childhood.
At the age of 9, while playing with his friends, Guru ji overheard the desperate plea of the Kashmiri Pandits to Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, seeking protection from the oppression and forced conversion to Islam imposed by Aurangzeb. Guru Teg Bahadur Ji assured them that their issue would be resolved, but it necessitated the sacrifice of a saint. A saint who has never uttered a word of malice, nor committed any wrongdoing, and is perpetually absorbed in the One Lord.
Upon hearing this, Gobind Rai ji stood before him, hands joined, and head bowed, expressing deep respect for his father and Guru. He said, “Guru-pita, there is no one more holy than you on earth. You have never spoken ill of others, nor have you committed any wrongdoing, and you remain constantly immersed in thoughts of the one Lord.” He asked his father why he doesn’t go and sacrifice himself to save the pleading Kashmiri Pandits.
The words of the nine-year-old Gobind Rai left everyone in disbelief.
“Marhabba,” Guru Teg Bahadur Ji exclaimed with joy. He embraced him warmly and expressed affection to his child, saying, “You have gained such wisdom that you are prepared to sacrifice your own father to save the Kashmiri Pandits.” Guru Teg Bahadur then entrusted the Guru Gaddi to the 9-year-old Gobind Rai, marking the moment when Guru Gobind Rai ascended as the 10th Guru of Sikhism.
The contributions of Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Sikhism are diverse and significant:
In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth, a revered brotherhood of baptized Sikhs, during the Vaisakhi festival at Anandpur Sahib. This event is crucial in Sikh history and signifies the establishment of the Khalsa, which was instrumental in upholding Sikh values and principles.
The Five Ks and Khalsa Identity: Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Five Ks, which are symbolic articles of faith, to create a unique identity for Khalsa Sikhs. The Five Ks-Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (wooden comb), Kachera (cotton undergarments), and Kirpan (sword)-represent the Khalsa’s dedication to Sikh principles, discipline, and the protection of justice.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji demonstrated remarkable foresight and exceptional leadership throughout his life. His skill in foreseeing challenges and offering solutions, both in spiritual and military contexts, is clear in his establishment of the Khalsa and his conduct during battles against oppression.
In 1708, Guru Gobind Singh Ji acknowledged the necessity for a lasting spiritual leader for the Sikh community and proclaimed Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. He granted Guruship to the scripture, confirming that it would serve as the everlasting guiding light for Sikhs, highlighting a distinctive and forward-thinking element of Sikh spiritual leadership.
Literary Contributions: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was both a military leader and a prolific poet and writer. His compositions in the Dasam Granth and other writings showcase his exceptional poetic talent and profound philosophical insight. His literary contributions feature the renowned “Chandi Di Var” and “Zafarnama.”
The lasting legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is rooted not only in his martial courage but also in his deep spirituality. His teachings highlighted the importance of seeking justice, promoting equality, and defending one’s faith, all while fostering a profound relationship with the divine.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s insightful vision, transformative initiatives, and proclamation of Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the Eternal Guru highlight his dedication to Sikh values and the welfare of the Sikh community. His life and teachings continue to inspire Sikhs around the globe, and he is a highly respected figure in Sikh history.
Guruji existed in physical form for just 42 years, yet his life was rich with events, courage, and triumph. Despite enduring the loss of his father, mother, and four children, as well as relinquishing his fort, he confronted Mughal Aurangzeb directly. He composed a letter titled “Zafarnama,” which translates to “letter of victory” (Zafar – victory, Nama – letter).
At the age of 19, he engaged in 13 significant battles, first against the Pahari Rajas and later against the Mughals, with or without alliances, starting with Bhim Chand of Kahlur. We commemorate his anniversary to serve as a beacon for humanity, illustrating how our guru stood resolutely against oppression, sacrificing himself and his entire family for our sake. He taught that committing injustice is a crime, but tolerating injustice is an even greater crime. Anandpur Sahib, located in the Rupnagar district, is a sacred site for Sikhs, linked to the 10th Sikh Guru. It is in close proximity to Kiratpur, which is associated with the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th Sikh Gurus.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji stands as the tenth Sikh guru, holding a place of great reverence and respect within the Sikh community. Numerous beliefs and narratives exist regarding his life and teachings, including the following:
He was a noble figure who battled against oppression and injustice. Guru Gobind Singh Ji is recognized for his courage and military skill, inspiring his followers to resist tyranny and oppression. He founded the Khalsa, a community of devoted and committed Sikhs who were focused on maintaining the values of justice and equality.
He held a strong conviction in the unity of God: Guru Gobind Singh Ji imparted the teaching that there is but one God, and that all religions serve as pathways to the same ultimate truth. He highlighted the significance of love, compassion, and serving others as a pathway to attaining spiritual enlightenment.
He had faith in the strength of the individual: Guru Gobind Singh Ji inspired his followers to cultivate their inner resilience and to advocate for their beliefs. He held the conviction that each individual possesses the capacity for greatness, and that it is through self-discipline, meditation, and devotion that one can attain spiritual liberation.
He recognized the significance of community: Guru Gobind Singh Ji highlighted the value of unity and support among Sikhs. He inspired his followers to collaborate in creating a fair and just society, urging them to stand by each other during challenging times.
He held a deep conviction in the principle of seva, or selfless service, as taught by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who emphasized that serving others is a core element of spiritual practice. He inspired his followers to participate in acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others as a way to demonstrate their devotion to God.
The beliefs and teachings persist in inspiring and guiding Sikh communities globally, with Guru Gobind Singh Ji being honoured as a spiritual leader and visionary who devoted his life to serving others.
In 1708, Guru Gobind Singh was assassinated while he endeavoured to create harmony with Emperor Bahadur Shah. He created a considerable collection of writings, and his most important contribution to Sikh tradition is his instruction to his disciples to view the Guru Granth Sahib (the compilation of writings from the earlier Gurus) as their everlasting Guru. This text will act as the cornerstone for the Gurus’ teachings, shaping all future decisions.
(The author is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton)
