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GNDU Queson Paper 2021
BA 5
th
Semester
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
(Sikh Darshan)
Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 100
Note: Aempt Five quesons in all, selecng at least One queson from each secon. The
Fih queson may be aempted from any secon. All quesons carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Akal Purukh the fundamental concept of Sikh Darshan. Explain.
2. The concept of creaon is related with God and the World both. Describe.
SECTION-B
3. Naam Simran the important concept of Sikhism. Explain.
4. Hukam (Divine order) one of the main concepts of Sikhism. Describe.
SECTION-C
5. Sri Guru Granth Sahib a unique Holy Scripture of Sikhism. Explain.
6. Explain the compilaon process of Guru Granth Sahib.
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SECTION-D
7. Teachings of JapuJi for achieving Sachiar Pad. Explain.
8. Baramaha Magh's teachings for ethical developments. Jusfy.
GNDU Answer Paper 2021
BA 5
th
Semester
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
(Sikh Darshan)
Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 100
Note: Aempt Five quesons in all, selecng at least One queson from each secon. The
Fih queson may be aempted from any secon. All quesons carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Akal Purukh the fundamental concept of Sikh Darshan. Explain.
Ans: Introducon:
Imagine standing in front of a vast, never-ending sky. You try to measure its length, its depth,
its color—but it just keeps going. That feeling of limitlessness, of something beyond me
and space, is the beginning of understanding Akal Purakh, the most important and
foundaonal concept in Sikh Darshan (Sikh philosophy).
The term ‘Akal Purakh’ literally means ‘The Timeless Being’. In Sikhism, God is not bound by
me, death, or human form. Akal Purakh is eternal, all-powerful, formless, and present
everywhere. Understanding this idea is key to understanding Sikhism itself.
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The Meaning of Akal Purakh:
Let’s break the word down:
• Akal (): ‘A’ means ‘without’, and ‘kal’ means ‘me’. So, Akal means ‘meless’ or
‘beyond me’.
• Purakh (): It means ‘being’ or ‘presence’.
So together, Akal Purakh means: The Timeless Presence, or The Eternal One.
In simple words, Akal Purakh is the name Sikhs use to describe God who was never born, will
never die, and exists forever—beyond me, space, form, or human understanding.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Vision of God:
The story of Akal Purakh begins with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. As a young
boy, Guru Nanak quesoned the rituals and supersons of his me. He didn’t believe that
God could only be found in temples or through tough rituals. He had a deep experience of
truth at the age of 30, aer disappearing in the river for three days. When he returned, his
rst words were:
“Na koi Hindu, na koi Musalman.”
(There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim.)
He had experienced something greater than any religion or form. He experienced Akal
Purakh—a presence that was beyond labels, beyond rituals, and beyond fear. That presence
was loving, just, formless, and forever.
This realizaon became the foundaon of Sikh philosophy.
Key Qualies of Akal Purakh (As described in Japji Sahib):
In the opening verse of the Guru Granth Sahib, Guru Nanak Dev Ji gives us the Mool Mantar
(the root mantra). This one verse describes the nature of Akal Purakh in just a few words:
"Ik Onkar
Sat Naam
Karta Purakh
Nirbhau
Nirvair
Akaal Moorat
Ajooni
Saibhang
Gur Prasad."
Let’s understand what these words mean, in simple language:
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1. Ik Onkar () – There is only One God. The enre universe is the expression of this
One.
2. Sat Naam – Truth is His Name. God is truth and eternal.
3. Karta Purakh – The Creator Being. Akal Purakh created everything.
4. Nirbhau – Without fear. God is not afraid of anyone.
5. Nirvair – Without hate. God loves all equally.
6. Akaal Moorat – Timeless form. Though formless, God's presence is eternal.
7. Ajooni – Not born. God is not born and does not die.
8. Saibhang – Self-created. No one created God.
9. Gur Prasad – Known through the Guru’s grace. We realize Akal Purakh through the
teachings of the Guru.
This beauful mantra is not just a prayer. It is a denion of Akal Purakh, as experienced by
Guru Nanak.
Akal Purakh is Formless – Nirankar:
In Sikhism, God is Nirankar, meaning formless. God doesn’t live in idols or statues. Instead,
God lives in every living being, in nature, in the air we breathe, and in every heartbeat.
That’s why Sikhs don’t worship statues or pictures. Instead, they meditate on the Naam
(Name of God), especially "Waheguru" – which means Wondrous Enlightener.
Akal Purakh is Present in Everyone:
Another beauful teaching of Sikhism is that Akal Purakh lives in everyone, regardless of
caste, religion, gender, or background. This was revoluonary at the me when society was
deeply divided. Guru Nanak and later Gurus taught that every human being is equal because
all are made by the same Akal Purakh.
"Ek Noor te sab jag upjeya, kaun bhale ko mande."
(From the One Light, the whole world has come. Then how can one be good and another
bad?)
Akal Purakh and the Idea of Fearlessness:
Sikh Gurus taught that when you believe in Akal Purakh, you become fearless. Because you
know that something eternal and divine is always with you. This idea inspired the Khalsa, the
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community of saint-soldiers started by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Even while facing the strongest
armies, they remained fearless by channg “Waheguru” and remembering Akal Purakh.
Akal Purakh in Guru Granth Sahib Ji:
The enre Guru Granth Sahib Ji is lled with verses that sing the praises of Akal Purakh. God
is called by many names in the scripture – Waheguru, Ram, Hari, Allah, Gobind – because
Akal Purakh is beyond any single religion or label.
For example:
"Tu karta sachiyar mai da sacha nai"
(You are the True Creator, I can only try to describe You.)
"Har simran kar man mere, Akaal Purakh tu paai."
(Meditate, O my mind, and you shall nd the Timeless Being.)
Story to Understand Akal Purakh:
Let’s imagine a small village. There’s a poer who makes beauful clay pots. Each pot is
dierent in color, shape, and size. Now, the pots start arguing: “I’m beer!” says the red one.
“I’m more useful!” says the blue one. But they forget—they were all made by the same
poer!
Similarly, in our world, we argue over religion, caste, gender—but we forget that we are all
made by the same Akal Purakh. Sikh Darshan reminds us to look beyond the outer shape
and connect with the divine soul inside.
Why Akal Purakh is Important in Sikh Darshan:
1. Foundaon of Faith: Everything in Sikhism begins with the belief in One Akal Purakh.
2. Source of Equality: Since God lives in all, no one is higher or lower.
3. Encourages Simplicity: No complicated rituals are needed—just a pure heart and
remembrance of God.
4. Inspires Courage: Belief in Akal Purakh gives Sikhs strength in hard mes.
5. Leads to Liberaon (Muk): When one remembers Akal Purakh, they break free
from the cycle of birth and death.
How to Connect with Akal Purakh:
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Sikhism doesn’t believe in blind worship. Instead, the Gurus taught three simple rules to
connect with Akal Purakh:
1. Naam Japna – Meditate on God’s name. Say "Waheguru" with love.
2. Kirat Karni – Do honest work.
3. Vand Chakna – Share what you have with others.
These are not just rules—they are ways to feel the presence of Akal Purakh in everyday life.
Conclusion:
The concept of Akal Purakh is not just about understanding God. It is about living with
awareness, seeing the Divine in yourself and others, and walking the path of truth, love, and
courage.
In the fast world of today, where people are divided by religion, language, and status, the
idea of Akal Purakh gives us hope. It reminds us that there is One Light, One Creator, One
Love behind all of creaon.
When we understand Akal Purakh, we realize that we are never alone. A meless, loving,
and formless presence is always with us—guiding us, holding us, and loving us.
"Waheguru – The Wondrous Enlightener!"
Say it with love, feel the peace, and remember—you are part of that divine light.
2. The concept of creaon is related with God and the World both. Describe.
Ans: The Concept of Creaon – A Connecon Between God and the World
Have you ever looked at a sunrise and wondered, "Who made this all? The sky, the sun, the
rivers, the birds, the stars, even us humans—where did it all begin?" This queson has
fascinated human beings for thousands of years. Dierent religions, cultures, and
philosophies have tried to answer it. At the center of all these explanaons lies the idea of
creaon. And when we talk about creaon, we cannot separate God from the World. They
are deeply connected like the roots and the tree, like the painter and the painng.
Let’s explore this concept like a story—starng from the beginning.
In the Beginning – Before Creaon
Long before anything existed—before me, before maer, before space—there was only
God (according to many theisc religions like Chrisanity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism). God
was eternal, innite, self-exisng. There was no Earth, no galaxies, no humans—only the
Supreme Power.
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This Supreme Power, also known as Akal Purakh (in Sikhism), Brahman (in Hinduism), Allah
(in Islam), or God (in Chrisanity), was full of energy, creavity, love, and wisdom. Then
came the moment that changed everything—the act of creaon.
Creaon – The First Divine Act
Creaon is considered the rst step where God decided to express His divine nature. Just like
an arst who paints to express his feelings, God created the world to express His divine love,
beauty, order, and intelligence.
Dierent religions and philosophies have dierent creaon stories, but the essence is the
same: God is the Creator, and the world is His creaon.
Hinduism:
In Hindu philosophy, Brahman (the ulmate reality) manifests the universe through its three
aspects—Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer). Creaon is a cosmic
process that is cyclic—it repeats in cycles of creaon and destrucon.
Chrisanity:
In the Book of Genesis, God created the world in six days—light, sky, land, stars, plants,
animals, and nally, human beings. Everything was made with a purpose and called “good”.
Islam:
In the Quran, Allah is the Creator of all things. He said, “Be!” and it came into existence. The
creaon is a sign of His power and wisdom.
Sikhism:
In Guru Granth Sahib, it is said: “He created the creaon and watches over it; by His
command, He created all beings.” God is both transcendent (beyond creaon) and
immanent (within creaon).
The World – A Reecon of God’s Will
The world is not separate from God. It is believed that the world is a reecon or
manifestaon of God’s will. Everything in this universe, from the smallest atom to the largest
galaxy, follows a certain order, law, and harmony. This divine order is oen seen as a proof of
God’s intelligence.
Have you ever noced how the Earth revolves around the Sun with perfect ming? Or how
every snowake is unique? Or how life begins in a mother’s womb? These natural wonders
are not random. They reect a Creator who is wise and powerful.
So, when we observe the world closely, we can see the ngerprints of God in every corner of
creaon.
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Humans – A Special Part of Creaon
Among all the creaons, human beings are considered special. Why? Because most religions
believe humans are created with intellect, conscience, and free will. In some tradions, it is
said that humans are created in the image of God (like in Chrisanity), or that a part of the
divine exists within all living beings (like Atman in Hinduism).
This gives human life a unique purpose—to live in harmony with creaon, to serve others, to
seek truth, and to realize the divine.
Creaon is Ongoing – Not Just a Past Event
Creaon is not just a one-me event. Many tradions believe that creaon is connuous.
Every new baby born, every seed that grows into a tree, every sunrise is a fresh moment of
creaon.
In Sikhism, the world is seen as being created again and again in a divine rhythm. In
Hinduism, there is the idea of cycles of creaon (yugas). In science, even the universe is sll
expanding since the Big Bang. So, creaon is not over—it is happening all the me.
Creaon and Science – Two Sides of the Same Coin
Many people think science and religion are opposite. But they can actually go together.
Science tells us how the world was created—Big Bang, evoluon, gravity, biology. Religion
tells us why it was created—to fulll a divine purpose, to express the Creator’s will.
So, when we study nature or the universe, we are also studying the work of God.
Creaon Inspires Responsibility
Since the world is God’s creaon, it teaches us one big lesson: We should take care of it.
We must protect nature, live with compassion, and respect all forms of life. Destroying
nature, hurng others, or living selshly goes against the very spirit of creaon. We are not
owners of this world—we are caretakers of it.
Conclusion – A Sacred Connecon
To sum up, the concept of creaon is not just about how the world came into being. It is a
deep spiritual idea that connects God and the World in a powerful, meaningful way.
• God is the Creator, the source of all life.
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• The world is His creaon, full of signs, beauty, and purpose.
• Humans are part of this creaon, given the power to think, choose, and protect.
• Creaon connues, every second, in every moment of life.
When we understand this connecon, we begin to see the world not just as a place to live—
but as a divine gi, a sacred trust, and a reecon of God Himself.
So the next me you see a blooming ower, a owing river, or a starry sky—pause and
remember, it is all part of the grand story of creaon, where God and the world are forever
united.
SECTION-B
3. Naam Simran the important concept of Sikhism. Explain.
Ans: Naam Simran – The Heartbeat of Sikhism
Let’s imagine you are walking early in the morning through a peaceful village in Punjab. The
sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, and the air is fresh and quiet. Somewhere in the
distance, you hear a so voice repeang "Waheguru, Waheguru..." again and again. That’s
Naam Simran — the spiritual heartbeat of a Sikh’s life.
But what does Naam Simran really mean? Why is it so important in Sikhism?
Let’s take a journey to understand this powerful concept in a simple and story-like way.
What Is Naam Simran?
The word “Naam” means name, specically the Name of God.
“Simran” means remembrance or meditaon.
So, Naam Simran means remembering or meditang on the Name of God — especially the
divine Name Waheguru, which means “Wondrous Enlightener”.
In Sikhism, Naam Simran is not just a ritual or pracce. It is a way of life. It is about keeping
God in your heart and mind at all mes — whether you're working, walking, eang, or even
sleeping.
Why Is Naam Simran So Important in Sikhism?
Let’s go back to the me of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. He lived during a
me when there was a lot of confusion in religion — some people were lost in rituals, others
were ghng over whose religion was superior.
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Guru Nanak Ji gave a very simple message:
"There is only one God. Remember Him with love and live honestly."
He said that remembering God’s Name — doing Naam Simran — would connect the soul
directly to Waheguru.
This message connued through all the Sikh Gurus. They taught that:
• Naam Simran brings peace of mind
• It clears the ego and pride
• It removes fear and worries
• It gives spiritual wisdom
• It leads to moksha (liberaon from the cycle of birth and death)
Let’s break it down with simple stories and ideas.
A Story of the Mind
Imagine your mind is like a garden. Whatever you plant in it, will grow.
• If you plant anger, greed, and jealousy, your garden will be full of weeds.
• But if you plant God’s Name, it will bloom with love, peace, and truth.
Naam Simran is like watering your garden with the divine. Every me you say “Waheguru,”
you are planng a seed of light in your mind.
How Do Sikhs Pracce Naam Simran?
Naam Simran can be done in many ways:
1. Repeang “Waheguru” (Jaap)
This is the most common form. Sikhs repeat the Name “Waheguru” with love and
concentraon, either silently or loudly.
Many people do this:
• Early in the morning (called Amrit Vela)
• While working, like Guru Nanak Ji did as a farmer and trader
• Before sleeping, to end the day with gratude
2. Listening to Gurbani (Shabad Kirtan)
Naam Simran is also done by listening to and singing Gurbani (hymns from Guru Granth
Sahib). The music and words together create a spiritual atmosphere.
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3. Meditaon and Focus (Dhyaan)
Closing your eyes and focusing your thoughts on Waheguru, feeling His presence within your
heart, is another deep way of doing Simran.
Naam Simran and Everyday Life
Sikhism teaches that Naam Simran is not just for saints or sadhus. It’s for everyone —
whether you're a student, doctor, farmer, or shopkeeper.
For example:
• A mother cooking food can do Simran while srring the pot.
• A student going to school can chant “Waheguru” while walking.
• A driver can meditate on God while focusing on the road.
It is not about sing in a temple all day — it is about bringing God into your daily acons.
The Benets of Naam Simran
Naam Simran doesn’t just help aer death — it makes life beer right now.
1. Mental Peace
In today’s stressful world, Naam Simran is like a natural medicine. When we remember God’s
Name, our breath becomes calm, and the mind becomes light.
2. Spiritual Growth
It helps us feel connected to the Divine — to something greater than ourselves. This
connecon brings faith, strength, and purpose.
3. Moral Living
When we remember God, we are less likely to lie, steal, or hurt others. Simran keeps us
conscious and responsible.
4. Freedom from Ego
One of the biggest problems in life is ego — “I am the best,” “I did this,” “I deserve more.”
Simran reminds us: everything comes from Waheguru. This creates humility and gratude.
Gurbani on Naam Simran
Here are some simple and powerful lines from Guru Granth Sahib Ji:
“Naam ke dhhaarey sagley jant.”
(All living beings exist because of God’s Name.)
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“Bin Naavey pat naahee ko-ay.”
(Without the Name, no one earns true respect.)
“Naam japat agan na lagey.”
(One who chants God’s Name is not burnt by the re of desire.)
These lines show how Naam is like air, water, and light — essenal for spiritual life.
A Simple Analogy – Naam Simran is Like Wi-Fi
Think of Naam Simran like Wi-Fi. When your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, everything works
beer — you can access knowledge, stay in touch, and nd direcon.
In the same way, Naam Simran connects your soul to Waheguru. When you're connected,
life runs smoothly, and you don’t feel alone.
Conclusion – The Journey Within
In the end, Naam Simran is not just about saying “Waheguru” again and again. It is about
creang a deep relaonship with God.
It is a journey within yourself, where you discover peace, love, and your true identy.
Sikhism teaches us that we are not just bodies or minds, but souls, and the soul’s food is
Naam.
So whether you're sing quietly in the morning or working through the day, remembering
God’s Name keeps your heart pure and your spirit strong.
Let us all take a small step today. Close your eyes. Take a breath. Say “Waheguru” with love.
That is Naam Simran — simple, beauful, and life-changing.
4. Hukam (Divine order) one of the main concepts of Sikhism. Describe.
Ans: Hukam (Divine Order) – A Key Concept in Sikhism
Imagine you are sing by a peaceful river on a quiet morning. You see the water owing
smoothly, birds chirping, the sun rising slowly, and trees swaying gently with the breeze.
Nobody tells the river where to go, the sun when to rise, or the birds when to sing. Yet,
everything is happening in a perfect rhythm. This natural ow and harmony in the universe
is what Sikhism refers to as "Hukam"—the Divine Order or Command of God.
Let’s explore this idea deeply and simply.
What is Hukam?
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In Sikhism, Hukam () means the Will of God or the divine law that governs everything in
the universe. The word comes from Persian/Arabic roots and translates to “command” or
“order.” But in Sikh thought, it's more than just a command—it's the natural, divine system
by which all things are created, managed, and sustained.
According to Sikh belief, everything in the universe—living or non-living—funcons under
Hukam. It is unseen, silent, and universal, yet incredibly powerful. From the movement of
stars to the thoughts in a human mind, all are part of this Divine Order.
Where Does the Concept Come From?
The concept of Hukam is introduced right at the beginning of the Guru Granth Sahib, the
holy scripture of the Sikhs. In the Japji Sahib—a hymn composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the
rst Sikh Guru—this line appears:
“Hukam rajāī chalnā Nānak likhiā nāl.”
(Walk in harmony with God’s command; this is wrien in your desny, says Nanak.)
This line tells us that living in tune with Hukam is the way to peace and spiritual freedom.
Understanding Hukam Through a Simple Story
Let’s try to understand Hukam with a simple story:
The Farmer and the Storm
Once, a humble farmer in Punjab worked hard in his elds every day. He believed in doing
his duty and le the results to Waheguru (God). One year, just before harvest, a terrible
storm destroyed most of his crops. His neighbors cried and blamed their luck. Some got
angry at God and others cursed the weather.
But the farmer sat quietly, folded his hands, and said, “This is Waheguru’s Hukam. If this is
His will, then I accept it.”
His son asked, “Father, don’t you feel sad or angry? We worked so hard!”
The farmer smiled and replied, “Yes, we did our part, but the outcome is not in our hands.
There is a bigger plan that we may not understand now. But Hukam is always fair, even if it
doesn’t feel that way.”
This story shows that accepng Hukam doesn’t mean giving up or being lazy. It means doing
your duty with full eort, but accepng the result as part of God's greater plan.
Main Teachings of Hukam in Sikhism
1. Everything Happens According to Hukam
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Sikhs believe that creaon, life, death, joy, and suering—all happen under God’s Hukam.
We may not always understand why certain things happen, but they are all part of a divine
balance.
“Hukmai andar sabh ko, bāhar hukam na ko-e.”
(Everything is under God’s command; nothing is outside of it.)
—Guru Nanak Dev Ji
2. Human Ego Challenges Hukam
Many mes, humans want to control everything. We want to avoid pain, chase pleasure, and
shape everything according to our desires. But this creates “haumai” (ego), which is
considered a major obstacle in Sikhism. Ego separates us from understanding and accepng
Hukam.
3. Living in Harmony with Hukam Brings Peace
When a person accepts Hukam with a calm mind and open heart, they stop ghng against
life’s ow. This brings peace, humility, and contentment.
This doesn’t mean becoming passive—it means living with courage and grace, doing your
best and trusng the outcome to Waheguru.
How Can One Live According to Hukam?
Living by Hukam is not always easy, but Sikhism provides guidance:
1. Naam Japna (Remembering God)
By meditang on God’s name (Waheguru), we slowly detach from ego and get in tune with
Hukam.
2. Kirat Karni (Honest Work)
Do your dues honestly and sincerely, without selshness or greed.
3. Vand Chakna (Sharing with Others)
By sharing what we have with others, we live in harmony and community—values that are in
line with Hukam.
4. Seva (Seless Service)
Serving others without expecng anything in return helps us become humble and accept
divine will.
Examples from Sikh Gurus’ Lives
Guru Arjan Dev Ji (5th Guru)
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He accepted the will of God even during his painful martyrdom. He was tortured by the
Mughal emperor but never cursed his enemies or cried for mercy. Instead, he calmly said:
“Tera Kīā Mīṭhā Lāgai.”
(O Lord, whatever You do feels sweet to me.)
This shows the highest level of Hukam acceptance—seeing even suering as God’s sweet
will.
Hukam in Modern Life
Even today, the concept of Hukam can guide our lives.
• When students study hard but don’t get expected results, accepng Hukam means
trying again without frustraon.
• When someone loses a loved one, Hukam teaches us to grieve, but not lose faith.
• When life brings unexpected blessings, Hukam reminds us to stay humble and
thankful.
Sikhism encourages us to become spiritually wise by understanding that we are just a small
part of a much larger, divine system. Resisng Hukam causes pain, while accepng it brings
peace and balance.
Conclusion
Hukam is not just a religious word. It is a beauful philosophy of acceptance, humility, and
trust in the Divine. Sikhism teaches that everything is unfolding as per God's command—
even if we don’t understand it at the moment. By living according to Hukam, we learn to let
go of anger, ego, and fear, and embrace life with courage, love, and wisdom.
To truly understand Hukam is to realize that we are not the doers—we are instruments in
God’s orchestra. And once we start hearing the music of life instead of trying to control it,
we nd inner peace.
SECTION-C
5. Sri Guru Granth Sahib a unique Holy Scripture of Sikhism. Explain.
Ans: Sri Guru Granth Sahib: A Unique Holy Scripture of Sikhism
Imagine a book that is not just a religious scripture but also a living spiritual guide, a source
of music and poetry, a social reformer, and a unifying voice for humanity. That’s what the Sri
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Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, represents. It is not just any holy book; it
holds a unique place in world religions. Let’s explore how and why.
1. What is Sri Guru Granth Sahib?
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism. It is not only respected
as a book, but also worshipped as the eternal Guru by Sikhs. The word "Granth" means
book, and "Sahib" is a term of deep respect. So, Guru Granth Sahib means the respected
master-book.
It contains spiritual teachings, hymns (Shabads), and poetry wrien by the Sikh Gurus as well
as saints from dierent religions and castes. The enre scripture is wrien in Gurmukhi
script and has a total of 1,430 pages.
2. History of the Guru Granth Sahib
To understand its uniqueness, we must rst look at its history:
• The rst version, called Adi Granth, was compiled by the h Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji
in 1604.
• Guru Arjan Dev Ji collected hymns of the rst four Gurus, his own, and wrings of
saints like Kabir, Namdev, Ravidas, Sheikh Farid, and others.
• The book was installed in Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.
• Later, the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, added the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur
Ji (the ninth Guru) and completed the scripture in 1708.
• Before passing away, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the
eternal Guru of the Sikhs, ending the line of human Gurus.
So now, the Sikhs bow before Sri Guru Granth Sahib as their spiritual Guru.
3. What Makes It Unique?
Let’s now explore why Sri Guru Granth Sahib is unlike any other scripture in the world:
A. Declared as a Living Guru
In most religions, scriptures are considered holy books wrien by divine beings or prophets.
But in Sikhism, the scripture itself is the Guru. No human being aer Guru Gobind Singh Ji
holds the tle of Guru. This makes Sikhism unique.
When a Sikh bows before the Guru Granth Sahib, they are not bowing to a book, but to the
divine wisdom and the eternal voice of God.
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B. Mulfaith Voices
The Guru Granth Sahib is not limited to Sikh Gurus. It includes the wrings of:
• Bhagats (devotees) from Hinduism and Islam
• People from dierent castes and regions
• Saints like Kabir (a Muslim weaver), Namdev (a Hindu tailor), Ravidas (a Dalit), and
Farid (a Su saint)
This shows the universal message of equality and love. No other religious book in the world
gives such importance to voices from dierent faiths equally.
C. Wrien by the Gurus Themselves
Unlike many scriptures that were wrien aer the prophet or spiritual leader passed away,
the hymns in Guru Granth Sahib were wrien by the Gurus themselves during their lifeme.
This adds authencity and direct connecon to their spiritual teachings.
D. Not Just a Book of Religion
Guru Granth Sahib is not just about rituals or beliefs. It teaches:
• Universal brotherhood
• Service to humanity
• Earning an honest living (Kirat Karni)
• Meditaon on God’s name (Naam Japna)
• Sharing with others (Vand Chakna)
These are not just religious ideas, but ways to live a meaningful life.
E. It’s Wrien in Poetry and Music
The enre Guru Granth Sahib is composed in musical ragas (classical Indian musical scales).
There are 31 ragas used. The hymns are full of poec beauty, and they are meant to be sung,
not just read.
This brings spiritual joy, and helps people connect with God through music and emoon. It is
the only major scripture that is completely set to music.
4. Main Teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib
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Let’s break down some key messages that the Guru Granth Sahib teaches in a simple way:
i. There is One God
“Ik Onkar” – There is only One Universal Creator.
God is without form, without fear, beyond me, and present everywhere. He is not limited
to one religion or group.
ii. All Humans Are Equal
The Guru Granth Sahib teaches that no one is higher or lower. Caste, gender, or religion do
not maer. Everyone has the same light of God in them.
iii. Live Honestly and Serve Others
Don’t lie, cheat, or harm others. Earn your living with honesty and serve the poor and needy.
iv. Remember God Daily
A Sikh should meditate on God’s name through Simran (remembrance) and Kirtan (singing
hymns). This brings peace and connecon with the Divine.
v. Avoid Ego and Greed
The Guru warns against the ve vices: lust, anger, greed, aachment, and ego. These take us
away from the path of truth.
5. Daily Role in Sikh Life
For Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib is not something to be read only on special occasions. It plays
a role in:
• Morning and evening prayers
• Weddings and other ceremonies
• Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) where people gather to listen to the hymns
• Personal guidance when people open the scripture randomly (called Hukamnama) to
seek a message for their day.
6. Respect and Rituals
Since the Guru Granth Sahib is considered a living Guru, it is treated with the highest
respect:
• It is placed on a special throne (Takht) under a canopy.
• It is covered with a clean cloth (Rumala Sahib).
• People bow before it when they enter the Gurdwara.
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• Shoes and head coverings are mandatory in its presence.
• It is read with full devoon, purity, and cleanliness.
7. A Guide for All Humanity
The Guru Granth Sahib is not just for Sikhs. Its message is for the enre world. It talks about:
• Peace
• Truth
• Kindness
• Forgiveness
• Love for all
In a world divided by hate and violence, the Guru Granth Sahib oers a path of unity and
compassion.
Conclusion
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib is much more than just a scripture. It is the spiritual heart of
Sikhism, a living Guru, and a treasure of divine wisdom. Its universal message of oneness,
love, and truth makes it unique among the holy books of the world.
Even aer centuries, its teachings remain fresh, meaningful, and praccal. Whether you're a
Sikh or not, reading it with an open heart can bring inner peace, purpose, and
understanding.
6. Explain the compilaon process of Guru Granth Sahib.
Ans: Compilaon Process of Guru Granth Sahib
The sacred journey of preserving divine wisdom in one eternal scripture
Imagine a me in the 15th and 16th centuries in Punjab—an era lled with religious
confusion, caste divisions, and supersons. Amidst this chaos rose a divine light—Guru
Nanak Dev Ji, the rst Guru of the Sikhs, who began spreading a simple but powerful
message: “There is one God, and all are equal.” His teachings formed the foundaon of
Sikhism, and his poetry carried divine wisdom that resonated with both the common man
and scholars.
As more Gurus followed aer Guru Nanak Dev Ji, they connued his mission. But the
queson naturally arose: How do we preserve these teachings for future generaons? That
queson became the seed for one of the most unique and respecul projects in world
history—the compilaon of the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.
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Beginning of the Journey: Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539)
Guru Nanak Dev Ji travelled across India and even beyond—Tibet, Sri Lanka, and the Middle
East—spreading the message of love, truth, and equality. During his travels (called Udasis),
he composed many hymns (shabads) in simple languages like Punjabi, Braj, Persian, and
Sanskrit, making them accessible to all.
His trusted companion, Bhai Mardana, would play the rabab (a string instrument) while Guru
Nanak sang his divine poetry. Bhai Mardana also played a key role in memorizing and
preserving these verses.
Guru Nanak passed his spiritual light to Guru Angad Dev Ji, and thus began the line of ten
human Gurus, each contribung their own hymns and preserving the ones received from
Guru Nanak.
The Need for Compilaon
As the teachings grew, so did the danger of distoron. Fake hymns, incorrect verses, and
personal interpretaons started circulang. This deeply worried the Gurus and the Sikh
community. There was an urgent need to compile and authencate the true words of the
Gurus and saints who shared similar spiritual views.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji and the Adi Granth (1563–1606)
The major step in compiling the Sikh scripture was taken by the h Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
He had a clear vision—to collect all the authenc hymns of the Gurus and other saints and
preserve them in one book. This was not just a book—it was to be a spiritual guide for
generaons to come.
Steps Taken by Guru Arjan Dev Ji:
1. Collecng the Hymns:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji sent trusted Sikhs across India to collect the wrings of earlier
Gurus. He also requested families of the Gurus, such as the descendants of Guru
Amar Das Ji and Guru Ram Das Ji, to share original manuscripts.
2. Including Bhagat Bani:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji didn’t limit the Granth only to Sikh Gurus’ teachings. He also
included verses from een Bhagats (saints) from dierent faiths like Hinduism and
Islam—such as Kabir, Namdev, Ravidas, Farid, and others—who believed in one God
and opposed rituals and casteism. This showed the inclusive nature of Sikhism.
3. Wring the Adi Granth:
The collected hymns were wrien by Bhai Gurdas Ji, a brilliant scholar and close
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companion of the Guru. The wring was done at Ramsar Sahib in Amritsar, and the
process took about 2 years.
4. Raags and Structure:
The hymns were not arranged randomly. Guru Arjan Dev Ji organized them according
to Raags (musical modes), so they could be sung. The Granth starts with Japji Sahib,
composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and ends with Mundavani, wrien by Guru Arjan
Dev Ji himself, symbolizing the spiritual seal.
5. No Alteraons Allowed:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji was very careful to maintain the purity of the Bani. No changes,
addions, or deleons were allowed. This strict approach ensured authencity.
6. Installaon of Adi Granth (1604):
Once the Granth was completed, it was respecully placed in Harmandir Sahib
(Golden Temple) on August 16, 1604. Baba Buddha Ji, a respected Sikh elder, was
appointed the rst Granthi (scripture reader).
Protecon of the Granth
Due to the revoluonary content of the Granth, which opposed superson, caste, and idol
worship, Guru Arjan Dev Ji faced resistance from religious and polical authories. He was
later martyred in 1606.
But despite this, the scripture was preserved with great respect and care. Copies were made
under strict supervision.
Final Compilaon by Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666–1708)
The tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, played a crucial role in the nal compilaon of the
Granth.
• He added the hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (his father and the ninth Guru).
• He did not include any of his own composions, showing humility and respect for the
divine word.
• In 1708, at Nanded (in Maharashtra), Guru Gobind Singh Ji completed the nal
version and bestowed Guruship upon the Granth Sahib, declaring:
“Sab Sikhan ko hukam hai, Guru Manyo Granth.”
(All Sikhs are commanded to regard the Granth as their Guru.)
From that moment, Guru Granth Sahib Ji became the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.
Features of Guru Granth Sahib
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• Contains 1430 pages.
• Composed in Gurmukhi script.
• Has 31 Raags for musical recitaon.
• Includes devoonal poetry from 36 contributors, including 6 Gurus, 15 Bhagats, 11
Bhas (bards), and 4 Sikhs.
• Teaches universal values—truth, humility, equality, compassion, and devoon.
Why This Compilaon Is Unique
1. Universal Message:
It contains wisdom from mulple faiths and cultures, yet all united by the belief in
one God.
2. No Human Worship:
It is the only scripture in the world that is treated as a living Guru. Sikhs bow before
it, not as a book, but as the voice of God.
3. Musical Arrangement:
The poec structure, combined with music (Raag), makes the teachings more
powerful and meditave.
4. Preserved Perfectly:
Since Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s me, no changes have ever been made, ensuring purity and
authencity.
Conclusion: A Living Spiritual Guide
The compilaon of Guru Granth Sahib wasn’t just the act of wring a book—it was a deeply
spiritual mission to preserve divine wisdom in its purest form. It reects the vision of the
Sikh Gurus: a world without discriminaon, where God is seen in all, and where service,
devoon, and humility are the guiding lights of life.
Even today, in every Sikh Gurdwara across the globe, the Guru Granth Sahib is read, sung,
and lived with the same respect and love as it was centuries ago. It remains not just a
scripture, but a living teacher, oering guidance, strength, and peace to millions.
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SECTION-D
7. Teachings of JapuJi for achieving Sachiar Pad. Explain.
Ans: Introducon: What is Sachiar Pad?
Imagine a traveler on a long spiritual journey, trying to reach a beauful, peaceful place
called Sachiar Pad. This place is not a physical locaon – it's a state of truthfulness, purity,
and connecon with God. In simple words, Sachiar Pad means the state of becoming Sachiar
(truthful) – living in harmony with the truth, without ego, lies, or aachment. It is the
highest goal in Sikhism – becoming one with the Satnam, the Eternal Truth (God).
But how can one reach this beauful place?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, gave us the road map in the form of Japji Sahib,
the opening prayer of the Guru Granth Sahib. Japji Sahib is like a spiritual GPS that guides us
step by step to reach Sachiar Pad.
Let’s explore what teachings Japji Sahib gives us to become a Sachiar person.
The Opening Queson: “How do we become Sachiar?”
Japji Sahib starts with a powerful and deep queson:
• " "
"How can one become truthful? How can the wall of falsehood be broken?"
This is a queson every spiritual seeker asks at some point – How do I break free from lies,
ego, greed, anger, and selshness that keep me away from God?
The answer comes right aer:
• " "
"By walking in the Will of God (Hukam), says Nanak, this is wrien in our desny."
So, the very rst step to reach Sachiar Pad is living according to Hukam, or Divine Will.
Let’s break this down.
1. Living in Hukam – Acceptance is Key
Hukam means the divine order or will of God that runs the whole universe. The sun rises,
the stars shine, the seasons change – all in Hukam. Human life too ows under Hukam.
To become Sachiar, one must stop resisng life and start accepng Hukam. Many people live
in stress and pain because they ght against reality – they complain, compare, or feel
jealous. Guru Nanak teaches us to surrender to God's will and trust the divine plan.
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Like a leaf oang on a river – if it tries to ght the current, it suers. But if it ows with the
river, it reaches its desnaon peacefully.
2. Understanding the Power of Naam (Divine Name)
Another central teaching of Japji Sahib is the importance of Naam Simran – remembering
and meditang on the Name of God.
• " "
"Only those who meditate on the True Name become pure."
Naam is not just a word; it's the vibraon, the essence of God. It’s remembering God with
love – Waheguru, Satnam, Akal Purakh.
When we chant or think of God's Name with love, it cleanses our mind, just like water cleans
dirt. Slowly, we become more honest, kind, humble – and these qualies are part of the
Sachiar Pad.
Guru Nanak says without Naam, the mind is like a desert – dry and lifeless. With Naam, it
becomes a blooming garden.
3. Avoiding Ego (Haumai)
Guru Nanak warns us again and again about Haumai, or ego. Ego is the biggest wall between
us and God. Ego makes us feel, “I am the doer,” “I am beer,” “I deserve more,” etc.
• " "
"Ego and the Name of God cannot live together."
So, to reach Sachiar Pad, we must let go of this false "I" and realize that everything happens
by God's grace.
Think of a candle – when ego is present, it’s like a thick smoke that blocks the light. When
ego is gone, the soul’s light shines brightly, connecng to the Truth.
4. Living a Life of Truth and Kindness
Being Sachiar doesn't just mean speaking the truth. It means living truthfully – being honest,
fair, compassionate, and content.
Guru Nanak tells us to earn honestly, share with others, and remember God:
• " "
"Those who earn by honest work and share with others, O Nanak, they know the true
path."
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This simple way of living – working honestly (kirat karni), sharing (vand chhakna), and
meditang (naam japna) – is the heart of Sikh life. When we follow this, we naturally walk
toward Sachiar Pad.
5. Silence the Mind – Deep Listening (Suniai)
In Japji Sahib, Guru Nanak describes a beauful pracce: Suniai – listening deeply.
• " "
"By listening, even spiritual masters and gods are blessed."
Listening here doesn’t just mean hearing with ears. It means listening with the heart, with
full aenon – to the Guru’s word, to inner voice, to the truth in every moment.
When we pracce deep listening, our mind becomes calm, ego becomes silent, and we can
hear the divine guidance inside us. This helps us walk the path of truth with clarity.
6. Paence, Humility, and Grace (Nadar)
Guru Nanak reminds us that we cannot achieve Sachiar Pad by force or pride. It comes by
God’s grace – nadar.
So, a seeker must live with paence, humility, and gratude.
• " "
"By His grace, O Nanak, He blesses us with joy."
Think of a farmer – he prepares the soil, plants the seed, waters it, and waits paently.
Similarly, we do good acons, remember God, and wait for His grace to bloom in our lives.
7. The Final Goal – Realizing the Oneness (Ik Onkar)
Japji Sahib begins with Ik Onkar – “There is One God.” This is not just a belief but an
experience.
When we walk the path of Naam, truth, humility, and compassion, our mind becomes clear,
and we start to see God in everything and everyone.
This is the moment we become truly Sachiar – our soul becomes one with the eternal Truth.
Conclusion: The Path is the Goal
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Reaching Sachiar Pad is not about going to a temple, or reading scriptures alone. It's about
transforming ourselves – from ego to humility, from lies to truth, from selshness to service,
from separaon to oneness.
Guru Nanak, through Japji Sahib, gives us a simple, yet deep path:
• Live in God's Will (Hukam)
• Remember and love God’s Name (Naam Simran)
• Let go of ego
• Speak and live truthfully
• Be kind and generous
• Listen deeply and paently
• Trust God's grace
If we walk this path with sincerity, slowly we become Sachiar – pure, peaceful, and full of
divine light.
8. Baramaha Magh's teachings for ethical developments. Jusfy.
Ans: Imagine yourself sing under the winter sky in the month of Magh (mid-January to
mid-February), wrapped in a blanket, surrounded by quiet nature. It’s cold outside, yet
peaceful — this calmness is perfect for thinking about life, values, and ethics. This is exactly
what Guru Nanak Dev Ji aimed for in his beauful composion "Baramaha" (Twelve
Months), especially the part related to the month of Magh. He didn’t just talk about weather
or me — he used each month as a metaphor to teach us how to live a good, moral life.
Let’s walk through the teachings of Baramaha Magh like a story — a spiritual journey
through winter that warms the soul and lights the path of ethical living.
What is Baramaha?
First, let’s understand what “Baramaha” means.
• "Bara" means twelve, and "mah" means months.
• The Baramaha composion reects on the spiritual signicance of each of the twelve
months of the Indian calendar.
• It is wrien by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and is part of the Guru Granth Sahib.
In this poetry, Guru Nanak Dev Ji speaks not only about nature or fesvals but about the
relaonship between the soul (the bride) and God (the husband). Every month becomes an
opportunity to improve this relaonship.
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The month of Magh becomes very special because it carries ethical and spiritual lessons that
are extremely relevant even today.
Teachings of Baramaha Magh
1. Importance of Good Acons (Karma)
Guru Nanak says in Baramaha Magh:
• “Magh majan sang sādhuā dūri ajnān bujhai.”
(In the month of Magh, taking a holy bath in the company of saints helps remove
ignorance.)
This means that just like we take a bath in rivers to clean our bodies during Magh, we should
also clean our minds and hearts through good acons and the company of virtuous people.
Ethical Message:
It’s not enough to do religious rituals. True cleansing happens when we act kindly, speak the
truth, help others, and stay humble.
Real-Life Example:
Imagine helping an old man cross the road or sharing your food with a hungry person. These
acts clean your inner self more than just going to a temple and oering owers.
2. The Value of Satsangat (Holy Company)
Guru Ji encourages us to spend me with wise and spiritual people. He says that when we
sit with saints, our ego goes away, and we start understanding the deeper truths of life.
Ethical Message:
Company maers. If you stay with good people, their values will inuence you — honesty,
compassion, paence, and kindness will become part of your nature.
Real-Life Example:
If you spend me with hardworking students, you will study beer. But if you hang out with
people who lie or waste me, you may also pick up bad habits.
3. Self-Discipline and Inner Cleansing
In the month of Magh, early morning cold water baths are considered purifying. But Guru Ji
says, inner cleansing is more important. We must remove jealousy, ego, anger, and greed
from our hearts.
Ethical Message:
Ethics start from within. To be truly moral, we must control our emoons and purify our
intenons.
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Real-Life Example:
Controlling your anger during a ght, even when you’re right, shows maturity. Not cheang
in an exam, even when no one is watching, shows inner strength.
4. Respect and Gratude to God
Guru Ji expresses that those who accept God’s will and are grateful, even in dicult mes,
are truly close to Him. They feel His presence like warmth in the cold month of Magh.
Ethical Message:
Be thankful and humble. Gratude creates a posive, ethical atude. Complaining and
comparing lead to jealousy and frustraon.
Real-Life Example:
Instead of feeling sad about not having the latest phone, be thankful for the food, educaon,
and family you have — this mindset leads to contentment and peace.
5. Reecng on Life and Time
Winter reminds us that life is temporary. Trees lose leaves, and everything becomes sll.
Guru Ji uses Magh as a symbol to make us reect on our own acons and goals in life.
Ethical Message:
Don’t waste your me. Use your life meaningfully by serving others, building good character,
and walking on the path of truth.
Real-Life Example:
Use your college years to learn values, not just syllabus. Ask yourself — how can I become a
good human being, not just a degree holder?
Baramaha Magh and Modern Ethical Challenges
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings from Magh are surprisingly modern. Let’s see how they guide
us today:
Modern Challenge
Magh’s Teaching
Corrupon and dishonesty
Be truthful, act with integrity
Social media pressure and ego
Avoid ego, pracce humility
Loneliness and mental health
issues
Seek good company, meditate, be spiritually aware
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Modern Challenge
Magh’s Teaching
Environmental damage
Learn from nature, live with respect for all living
beings
Violence and hatred
Replace anger with love, avoid judging others
Conclusion: A Warm Light in Cold Times
The month of Magh, as described by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, is not just about physical bathing
or tradions. It’s a reminder to clean our soul, improve our acons, and build a stronger
ethical life.
Ethical development doesn’t come from books alone. It grows through:
• Being around good-hearted people (sangat),
• Thinking about your acons (self-reecon),
• Praccing kindness, truth, and humility,
• And always remembering that God watches our intenons.
So next me the cold winds of Magh blow, wrap yourself not just in a sweater — but also in
the warmth of ethical living, as taught by Guru Nanak.
Quick Summary Points
• Baramaha Magh teaches cleansing the soul, not just the body.
• Good company helps in ethical development.
• Inner discipline is more powerful than outward rituals.
• Gratude and humility are key ethical values.
• Guru Nanak’s teachings help us handle modern moral problems too.
“This paper has been carefully prepared for educaonal purposes. If you noce any mistakes or
have suggesons, feel free to share your feedback.”
