GURMUKHI Meaning and
Definition
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Gurmukhi is a term derived from two words: "gur" meaning Guru or teacher, and "mukh" meaning mouth or face. It refers to a script or writing system that is primarily used to write the Punjabi language, which is spoken by millions of people, mainly in the Indian state of Punjab and parts of Pakistan. Gurmukhi is considered to be the script that was ordained by the Sikh gurus, who were the spiritual leaders of the Sikh faith.
The Gurmukhi script is a syllabic alphabet, meaning that each letter represents a syllable rather than an individual sound. It consists of 35 letters, which are written from left to right in a horizontal fashion. Gurmukhi is widely recognized for its ability to accurately capture the phonetic nuances of the Punjabi language, making it well-suited for preserving and reciting the sacred hymns of the Sikh scriptures.
One of the distinguishing features of Gurmukhi is the presence of additional vowel signs and diacritical marks, which indicate vowel sounds and other phonetic variations. This characteristic allows for precise pronunciation and assists in the reading and writing of Punjabi words. Gurmukhi has played a vital role in preserving the Sikh religious heritage and serving as a medium for disseminating the teachings of the Sikh gurus.
In addition to its religious significance, Gurmukhi has also been used for various literary and educational purposes, contributing to the cultural and linguistic richness of the Punjabi-speaking community. Its unique aesthetic qualities and functional versatility have made it an integral part of Punjabi identity and an essential tool for communication in the region.
Etymology of GURMUKHI
The word Gurmukhi has its roots in the Punjabi language. Gur means teacher or guru, and mukh means mouth or face. When combined, Gurmukh refers to someone who is enlightened by the teachings of the guru. The script used to write the Punjabi language is called Gurmukhi as it was developed and promoted by the Sikh gurus in the 16th century to spread the teachings of Sikhism. Thus, Gurmukhi refers to from the mouth of the guru or script of the Guru.
