The Guru Granth Sahib, also known as Adi Granth, is the central religious scripture of Sikhism. It is considered the eternal Guru, serving as a guiding light and spiritual authority for Sikhs. Composed and compiled by the Sikh Gurus and later by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev, this sacred text contains hymns, prayers, and teachings in Gurmukhi script, a Punjabi language that uses the scriptural alphabet.
The Guru Granth Sahib comprises 1,430 pages and includes contributions from various religious figures, including Sikh Gurus, Bhakti saints, Hindu and Muslim saints, and even those of low social status. It contains poetry, devotional hymns, and compositions dedicated to God and reflects the devotion, love, and spiritual journey of the authors.
Sikhs consider the Guru Granth Sahib a living Guru, treating it with immense respect and reverence. It is regarded as the ultimate spiritual authority and the final word on how to attain liberation, enlightenment, and a close relationship with God. Sikhs, therefore, show utmost devotion by carefully reciting, studying, and following the teachings present in the scripture.
The Guru Granth Sahib is housed and preserved in Gurdwaras, Sikh places of worship, where its hymns are recited daily during the morning and evening prayers. Sikhs hold it in high regard, seeking guidance and inspiration from its divine wisdom to live a moral, purposeful, and devout life inline with the principles and teachings of Sikhism.
