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BHAI GURDAS (1551-1636)
Who was he?
An Ideal Sikh of the Guru. A man of wide learning especially in
ancient texts and philosophy Devoted his exceptional talents to
preaching the Sikh faith. Writer.His Family?
Only child. Both parents died by the age of 12. Adopted by Uncle
Guru Amar Das Ji. Never married, although he considered married
life to be a great virtue.Why is he important to us now?
Every Sikh is told by Guru Arjun Dev Ji to read his writings
before reading Guru GranthSahib ji.
His writings are the KEY to understanding Guru Granth Sahib
Ji.How did he learn Sikhi?
Listening to many men of knowledge and spiritual attainment who
visited Guru atGoindwal
Went to Varanasi where he studied Sanskrit and Hindu scriptures.
Preached in Agra, Lucknow Varanasi, Burhanpur, Rajasthan,Jammu and
Chamba hillsWhat are the key events in his life?
Early years spent with Guru Amar Das Ji . Helped excavate the
sacred pool at Amritsar. Became one of the key Sikhs of Guru Arjun
Dev ji at Amritsar. Wrote down first Guru Granth Sahib with Guru
Arjun Dev in 1604. Still exists. Recited shabads to Emperor Akbar
to show it was not against Islam. Guru Hargobind put Bhai Gurdas
and Baba Buddha in charge of Akal Takhat
Consruction.
Taught the child (Guru) Tegh Bahadur ancient classicsHis
compositions?
Poetry in punjabi called Vars. These are the KEY to
understanding Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Poetry in Hindi (Brij) called
Kabitt Savaiyye often sung in sangat.Further reading:
Jaggi, Ratan Siligh, Bhai GurdasJivan Te Rachna Patiala, 1974
Sardul Singh, Bhai Gurdas. Patiala, 1961 Darshan Singh.Bhai Gurdas
Sikhi de pahile viakhiakar, Patiala, 1986. www.sikh-history.com
Varan Bhai Gurdas -text, transliteration and translation by Dr Jodh
Singh
