Guru Arjan Dev Ji || The Fifth Guru of Sikhism

Guru Arjan Dev Ji

The Fifth Guru of Sikhism

Biography:

1. **Birth and Family** Guru Arjan Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1563, in Goindval, Punjab, India. He was the youngest son of Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of Sikhism, and Mata Bhani Ji.

2. **Guruship** He became the fifth Guru of Sikhism at the age of 18, succeeding his father Guru Ram Das Ji. He served as Guru from 1581 until his martyrdom in 1606.

3. **Compilation of Guru Granth Sahib** Guru Arjan Dev Ji compiled the Adi Granth, the sacred scripture of Sikhism, which later became known as the Guru Granth Sahib. He collected hymns of the first five Sikh Gurus and other saints, including those from different religious backgrounds.

4. **Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)** He completed the construction of the Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, which was initiated by his father, Guru Ram Das Ji. The temple became the central place of worship for Sikhs.

5. **Social and Community Development** Guru Arjan Dev Ji continued the community-building efforts of his predecessors, establishing the langar (community kitchen) and promoting the principles of equality and social justice.

6. **Martyrdom** Guru Arjan Dev Ji faced persecution and torture under the Mughal Emperor Jahangir due to his refusal to convert to Islam and his growing influence among the masses. He was eventually martyred on May 30, 1606, after enduring days of torture.

Teachings:

1. **Universalism** Guru Arjan Dev Ji emphasized the universality of Sikhism, welcoming people from all walks of life and religious backgrounds into the Sikh community. He promoted the idea of unity in diversity.

2. **Devotion and Meditation** He stressed the importance of devotion (bhakti) to Waheguru (God) and encouraged Sikhs to engage in regular meditation, prayer, and chanting of hymns to connect with the divine.

3. **Humility and Service** Guru Arjan Dev Ji exemplified humility in his personal conduct and interactions with others. He taught that humility is a virtue that leads to spiritual growth and harmony in society. He also emphasized the importance of selfless service (seva) as a means of serving humanity and expressing love for the divine.

4. **Resilience and Sacrifice** His martyrdom serves as a powerful example of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in the face of oppression. He demonstrated courage and steadfastness in upholding the principles of Sikhism, even at the cost of his own life.

5. **Guru Granth Sahib** Guru Arjan Dev Ji's compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib remains a cornerstone of Sikh spirituality, containing timeless wisdom and guidance for Sikhs and all humanity.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji's teachings continue to inspire millions of Sikhs worldwide, guiding them on the path of spirituality, social justice, and service to humanity. His martyrdom is commemorated annually by Sikhs as Shaheedi Divas (Martyrdom Day).