A Guide to Guru Amar Das Jayanti : Celebrating Light and Legacy
Guru Amardas Jayanti, a vibrant celebration observed by Sikhs worldwide, honors the birth anniversary of Guru Amardas, the third Sikh Guru. It’s a day filled with devotion, community spirit, and reflection on the profound impact Guru Amardas left on Sikhism. This blog delves into the essence of this significant occasion, exploring its history, traditions, and the enduring legacy of Guru Amardas.
Who was Guru Amardas?
Born on May 5th, 1479, in the village of Basarke (present-day Amritsar district, Punjab), Guru Amardas led a life marked by piety and a relentless search for spiritual truth. Initially following the Vaishnava tradition of Hinduism, he embarked on numerous pilgrimages, seeking solace and enlightenment. A life-altering encounter with his nephew’s wife, Bibi Amro, who recited a hymn by Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, ignited a spark within him. Deeply moved by the teachings, he sought Guru Angad Dev, the second Sikh Guru, and became his dedicated disciple at the age of 73.
Guru Amardas served Guru Angad Dev with utmost devotion for 12 years. His unwavering commitment and spiritual growth led to his appointment as the third Sikh Guru on March 26th, 1552. Despite his advanced age, Guru Amar Das embraced his role with remarkable zeal, leading Sikhism through a period of immense growth and social reform.
When and Why is Guru Amardas Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Amardas Jayanti falls on the light fourteenth day (Chaudhvin) of the lunar month of Vaisakh in the traditional Nanakshahi calendar. This typically translates to a date in April or May according to the Gregorian calendar.
The celebration marks the birth anniversary of Guru Amardas, a day to revere his spiritual wisdom, selfless service, and the significant contributions he made to Sikhism. It’s an occasion to reflect on his teachings of equality, social justice, and the importance of Naam Simran (meditation on the divine name).
How is Guru Amardas Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Amardas Jayanti is observed with devotion and joy in Gurdwaras (Sikh places of worship) across the globe. Here’s a glimpse into the celebratory practices:
- Akhand Path: An uninterrupted recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, commences days before Guru Amar Das Jayanti. This allows devotees to immerse themselves in the Guru’s teachings.
- Kirtan Darbar: Special congregations (Darbars) are held where kirtaneers (devotional singers) recite hymns and sing praises of Guru Amar Das. The soulful melodies resonate with the spirit of the occasion.
- Langar Seva: On Guru Amar Das Jayanti, Langar seva (community kitchen service) takes on even greater significance. Volunteers prepare and distribute langar, reinforcing the principles of equality and community service.
- Community Gatherings: Sikh communities organize lectures, seminars, and cultural programs to educate the younger generation about Guru Amar Das’s life and teachings.
- Charity and Donations: Many Sikhs choose this day to engage in acts of charity, donating to the underprivileged or supporting Gurdwara initiatives.
Miracles Attributed to Guru Amardas
Many miracles are attributed to Guru Amardas, reinforcing his divine status among followers. These miracles often emphasize his compassion, humility, and connection to the divine, inspiring Sikhs to follow his example in their own lives.
- Reviving the Dead:
- Guru Amardas revived a deceased man, demonstrating his spiritual power.
- This miracle showcased his connection with the divine and compassion for humanity.
- Curing a Lame Devotee:
- A lame devotee sought Guru Amardas’s blessings.
- The Guru’s touch healed the devotee, allowing him to walk again.
- Healing a Mad Queen:
- A queen suffering from mental illness approached Guru Amardas.
- His prayers and grace restored her sanity, bringing relief to the royal family.
- The Well of Purity:
- It is believed that upon arriving at Goindwal Sahib, the place designated as the new Sikh center by Guru Amardas, he found the well water to be brackish.
- Through his spiritual power, the water is said to have become sweet and drinkable, symbolizing the transformative power of his teachings.
Guru Amardas’s Enduring Legacy
Guru Amardas’s life and teachings continue to inspire Sikhs and others worldwide.
- Establishment of Amritsar: Guru Amardas played a pivotal role in developing the city of Amritsar, the holiest city in Sikhism. He initiated the construction of the Amrit Sarovar, the holy pool that lies at the heart of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple).
- Compilation of the Adi Granth: Guru Amardas recognized the importance of preserving the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev and Guru Angad Dev. He played a crucial role in compiling their hymns and those of other saints, laying the foundation for the Adi Granth, the definitive scripture of Sikhism. He appointed representatives for different regions of India to propagate Guru Nanak’s message. Guru Amardas expanded and consolidated missionary efforts, ensuring Sikhism’s growth.
- Emphasis on Langar: Guru Amardas firmly established Langar as a central pillar of Sikhism. Langar, the Sikh community kitchen that provides free meals to all visitors, regardless of caste or religion. He mandated that Langar be prepared twice a day, ensuring that no one left the Gurdwara hungry. This tradition continues to be a powerful symbol of Sikhism’s commitment to social equality and inclusivity.
- Social Reforms: Guru Amardas actively campaigned against social evils like the caste system and the practice of Sati, where widows were forced to immolate themselves on their husband’s funeral pyre. His teachings emphasized the sanctity of life and the importance of treating widows with dignity. He encouraged intercaste marriages and allowed widows to remarry. He challenged societal norms by advocating for equal rights for women. He encouraged women to rise early, bathe, and meditate, emphasizing their spiritual importance.
- Emphasis on Naam Simran: At the core of Guru Amardas’s teachings lies the importance of Naam Simran, the constant remembrance of the divine name. He believed that this practice was the key to spiritual liberation and a life of purpose.
- Middle Way of Life: Guru Amardas advocated a balanced approach between asceticism and sensuous pleasure. He praised the life of an ordinary family man, emphasizing prosperity while pleasing God.
- Humility and Selfless Service: Guru Amardas emphasized humility, selfless service, and devotion to God. His code of conduct (rehat) promoted virtues like honesty, compassion, and equality.
His legacy continues to inspire millions, emphasizing ethical living and devotion.
Conclusion: A Celebration that Transcends Time
Guru Amardas Jayanti is more than just a birth anniversary; it’s a vibrant celebration of a visionary leader and his timeless teachings. It’s a day to reflect on the importance of equality, social justice, and the transformative power of faith. As the world grapples with issues of social inequity and spiritual yearning, Guru Amardas’s message of inclusivity, selfless service, and devotion to the divine name remains profoundly relevant. By commemorating his life and teachings, we can strive to create a more just and compassionate world, a world that embodies the essence of Guru Amar Das’s legacy.
Guru Amardas Jayanti serves as a potent reminder that the legacy of a great spiritual leader transcends time. By cherishing his teachings and striving to embody them in our daily lives, we can continue to illuminate the path towards a more harmonious and enlightened world.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Guru Amardas Jayanti special?
Guru Amardas Jayanti is special because it commemorates the birth of Guru Amardas, whose teachings and contributions significantly shaped Sikhism. His emphasis on social equality, community service, and devotion continues to inspire Sikhs worldwide.
- How do people prepare for Guru Amardas Jayanti?
People prepare for Guru Amardas Jayanti through personal reflection, prayer, and meditation. Community preparations include organizing events, decorating Gurdwaras, and preparing food for Langar, fostering a spirit of unity and service.
- Can non-Sikhs participate in the celebrations?
Yes, non-Sikhs are welcome to participate in the celebrations, especially in the communal meals and services at Gurdwaras. The inclusive nature of Sikhism encourages people from all backgrounds to join and experience the teachings of Guru Amardas.
- What is the most memorable part of Guru Amardas Jayanti?
The most memorable part of Guru Amardas Jayanti is often the Langar, where people from all walks of life come together to share a meal. This practice symbolizes the values of equality and community that Guru Amardas championed.
- How has the celebration evolved over time?
The celebration of Guru Amardas Jayanti has evolved to include more diverse activities such as cultural performances, educational seminars, and global observances. While the core spiritual practices remain the same, modern elements have been incorporated to engage the broader community.