
Guru Gobind Singh
Introduction
About
GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh was born as Gobind Das on 22nd December, 1666. He was the tenth and final human Sikh Guru, revered as a warrior, poet, and philosopher. Ascending to leadership at the age of nine after the execution of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, by Emperor Aurangzeb, he faced immense personal tragedy, including the deaths of his four sons—two in battle and two executed by the Mughal governor Wazir Khan.
A central figure in Sikhism, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa in 1699, a community of saint-soldiers dedicated to upholding righteousness and justice. He introduced the Five Ks, the five articles of faith that Khalsa Sikhs wear, which symbolize their devotion and commitment. His literary contributions include the Dasam Granth, a text integral to Sikh prayers and rituals, and he was instrumental in finalizing and enshrining the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of Sikhism.
Born in Patna, Bihar, into the Sodhi clan of the Punjabi Khatri community, Gobind Singh's early life was marked by significant moves due to the political turmoil of the time. He received a comprehensive education in reading, writing, and martial arts. His father's martyrdom and his own initiation as the tenth Guru led him to become a central figure in the Sikh resistance against Mughal oppression. His literary prowess is exemplified in works like the Chandi di Var, which reflects his deep engagement with themes of justice and valor.
Guru Gobind Singh's marriages further solidified his social and spiritual legacy. At age ten, he married Jito, with whom he had three sons. Later, he married Sundari, with whom he had one son, and at age 33, he married Sahib Devan, who played a significant role in Sikhism as the proclaimed Mother of the Khalsa.
His leadership saw the institutionalization of the Khalsa, which played a crucial role in protecting Sikhism during tumultuous times. The creation of the Khalsa at Anandpur in 1699 was a pivotal event, marked by the initiation of the Panj Pyare and the establishment of a code of discipline that emphasized equality and moral conduct. Guru Gobind Singh's reforms, including the abolition of the Masands system and the centralization of leadership under the Khalsa, were aimed at fostering unity and resilience among Sikhs.
The Guru's literary legacy includes the Dasam Granth, a voluminous text comprising hymns, mythological tales, and theological discussions. While some Sikhs consider it a secondary scripture, its significance in the daily practices of devout Khalsa Sikhs is undeniable. Guru Gobind Singh's leadership against the Mughal Empire's hostility is legendary, marked by battles that upheld Sikh religious values and combated tyranny.
Notable battles include the prolonged siege of Anandpur, the Battle of Chamkaur, and the Battle of Muktsar, each demonstrating his strategic acumen and unwavering commitment to justice. These conflicts, driven by the need to defend against persecution, were instrumental in shaping Sikhism's future.
Despite the Mughal court historians' negative portrayals, Sikh accounts celebrate Guru Gobind Singh's valor and spiritual guidance. His Zafarnama, a letter to Aurangzeb, condemns the emperor's betrayal and foretells the Mughal Empire's downfall due to its immorality. This letter, along with his final words emphasizing the Guru Granth Sahib's spiritual authority, underscores his enduring influence on Sikhism.
Guru Gobind Singh's assassination in 1708 by agents of Wazir Khan marked the end of an era. His last words reaffirmed the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru and emphasized the importance of the Khalsa. His legacy, documented in historical Sikh texts, continues to inspire and guide the Sikh community, embodying the principles of courage, justice, and unwavering faith.
Date of Birth: 22nd December, 1666
Place of Birth: Patna City