Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru, composed numerous hymns that are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. These hymns, known as Gurbani, reflect Guru Angad Dev Ji’s deep spiritual wisdom and devotion to the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Here are a few verses from Gurbani attributed to Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji:
- “ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਪਰਖੇ ਤਾ ਪਾਈਐ ਜੇ ਤਿਸੁ ਜੀਅ ਭਲੀ ਕਰੇ॥”
(Satgur Nanak parkhe ta paeeai je tis jeea bhali kare.)
Translation: “Only by God’s grace can one recognize the true Guru Nanak, whose soul is blessed.” - “ਨਾਨਕ ਦਰਗਹ ਮਿਲਹਿ ਪਈਐ ਜੇ ਕਰਮੀ ਕਰਿ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ॥”
(Nanak dargah mileh paeeai je karmi kar vechar.)
Translation: “O Nanak, by reflecting upon your actions, you shall obtain a place in the Court of the Lord.” - “ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ ਵਰਤਦਾ ਆਪੇ ਸੁਣੈ ਆਪਿ ਵੇਖੈ॥”
(Aape aap vartada aape sunai aap vekhai.)
Translation: “He Himself operates, He Himself listens, and He Himself observes.” - “ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦੀ ਆਪਣੀ ਮਿਲੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਨੁ ਵਸਿਆ ਵਸਿ ਜਾਇ॥”
(Gur parsadi apani milai har naam man vasia vasi jai.)
Translation: “By Guru’s grace, one receives the self and the mind abides in the Lord’s Name.” - “ਸਗਲ ਜਮਾਤਾ ਬਿਸਰੈ ਜਾਣੈ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਮਨਮੁਖ ਮੂਏ॥”
(Sagal jamata bisrai janai gur bin manmukh mue.)
Translation: “The whole world forgets and only those self-willed persons perish without the Guru.”
These verses from Guru Angad Dev Ji’s Gurbani encapsulate the essence of Sikh spirituality, emphasizing the importance of devotion, self-reflection, and the grace of the Divine in attaining spiritual realization. They continue to inspire and guide Sikh followers on their spiritual journey.
Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji: The Second Sikh Guru
Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji, born as Lehna, was the second of the ten Sikh Gurus who played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding the Sikh faith. Guru Angad Dev Ji succeeded Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and continued his mission of spiritual enlightenment, community service, and social reform. Through his teachings and selfless devotion, Guru Angad Dev Ji left an indelible mark on Sikhism and inspired countless followers.
Early Life and Spiritual Journey:
Guru Angad Dev Ji was born in the village of Sarai Naga in present-day Pakistan on March 31, 1504. Prior to becoming a disciple of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, he served as a devoted and respected worshiper of the Hindu deity, Durga. It was during a chance encounter with Guru Nanak Dev Ji that Lehna’s life changed forever. Impressed by Guru Nanak’s teachings and spiritual presence, Lehna decided to dedicate himself to the path of Sikhism.
After formally accepting Guru Nanak Dev Ji as his spiritual guide, Lehna underwent a profound transformation. He renounced his previous beliefs and embraced the teachings of Guru Nanak, becoming one of his most dedicated disciples. Over time, Lehna proved himself to be a sincere and humble servant of the Sikh faith.
Appointment as the Second Guru:
As Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s spiritual successor, Guru Angad Dev Ji was appointed as the second Guru of the Sikhs in 1539. This decision was not made based on any hereditary principles but rather on the merit and spiritual qualities demonstrated by Guru Angad Dev Ji. This practice of choosing successors based on their spiritual qualifications and not on lineage established the principle of Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Sikh scripture, as the ultimate Guru for future generations.
Contributions and Reforms:
During his 13-year tenure as the second Guru, Guru Angad Dev Ji made significant contributions to Sikhism. He focused on strengthening the Sikh community and spreading the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Some of his notable contributions include:
- Formalizing the Gurmukhi script: Guru Angad Dev Ji recognized the importance of a written language to preserve and disseminate the teachings of Sikhism. He standardized and promoted the Gurmukhi script, which became the medium for writing the sacred hymns of the Gurus.
- Expanding the langar (community kitchen): Guru Angad Dev Ji emphasized the importance of service and selflessness. He expanded the concept of langar, a free community kitchen, making it an integral part of Sikhism. Langar serves as a symbol of equality, where people from all walks of life sit together and share a meal, regardless of their social status.
- Promoting physical fitness: Guru Angad Dev Ji recognized the importance of physical fitness and encouraged Sikhs to engage in physical activities. He introduced wrestling and other sports to foster discipline, courage, and a healthy lifestyle among his followers.
- Compiling the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji: Guru Angad Dev Ji collected and compiled the writings and hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, organizing them into a cohesive volume known as the Pothi Sahib. This compilation formed the foundation for the future Guru Granth Sahib.
Legacy and Impact:
Guru Angad Dev Ji’s contributions were instrumental in shaping the Sikh community and strengthening the foundation of Sikhism. His efforts in promoting education, selfless service, and spiritual discipline laid the groundwork for future Sikh Gurus. His compilation of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s writings ensured that the teachings of Sikhism would be preserved for generations to come.
Guru Angad Dev Ji’s humility, devotion, and commitment to
social welfare continue to inspire Sikhs worldwide. His teachings of equality, selflessness, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment remain at the core of Sikh philosophy. Today, Sikhs revere Guru Angad Dev Ji as a spiritual guide and a visionary leader who played a crucial role in the evolution of their faith.
Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru, left an indelible legacy through his teachings, reforms, and commitment to the Sikh community. His contributions, including the promotion of the Gurmukhi script, the expansion of the langar, and the compilation of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s writings, continue to shape Sikhism to this day. Guru Angad Dev Ji’s life serves as an inspiration for individuals seeking spiritual enlightenment, selfless service, and the pursuit of truth.
