The word "akal" is commonly spelled with two different variations: "akal" and "aakal". The pronunciation of "akal" can be represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /əˈkɑːl/, with the first syllable emphasized and the "a" sounding like the "a" in "father". The second variation, "aakal", emphasizes the first two syllables and has a longer "a" sound, represented as /ˈɑːkəl/. The word "akal" has origins in the Punjabi language, where it means "intellect" or "wisdom".
Akal, also known as "akal city," is a term originating from Sikhism and the Punjabi language. It is a concept that holds significant importance in Sikh philosophy and is often translated as "eternal" or "timeless."
In Sikhism, akal is associated with the "Akal Purakh," meaning the "Timeless Being" or the "Immortal God." It symbolizes the divine attribute of being beyond the constraints of time and the eternal nature of the Divine. Akal represents a state that transcends the cycle of birth and death, a realm where there is no decay or mortality. It denotes the timeless essence of God and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and connecting with the eternal truth in every aspect of life.
The concept of akal also extends beyond the theological realm and has broader connotations in Punjabi culture. It is often used to describe an extraordinary event or a situation that defies conventional norms or expectations. It signifies a state of profound wisdom and offers guidance to navigate through life's challenges with resilience and strength.
Furthermore, akal is symbolic of the Sikh belief in the ultimate victory of truth over falsehood, representing the triumph of righteousness and justice in the face of oppression or injustice. It encapsulates the idea that truth is everlasting, undying, and prevails irrespective of the constraints of time.
Overall, akal encompasses the concepts of timelessness, eternity, divine attributes, and the triumph of truth, making it a central tenet in Sikhism's spiritual and philosophical framework.
The word "akal" originates from the Punjabi language, which is primarily spoken in the Punjab region of South Asia, spanning parts of India and Pakistan.
In Punjabi, "akal" (ਅਕਾਲ) is derived from the combination of two words: "a" (ਅ), meaning "without" or "beyond", and "kal" (ਕਾਲ), meaning "time" or "death". Therefore, the literal translation of "akal" is "beyond time" or "immortal".
In Sikhism, "Akal" is also used as a reference to the "Akal Purakh" (ਅਕਾਲ ਪੁਰਖ), which translates to "Timeless Being" or "Eternal God".