Introduction
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the supreme spiritual authority and eternal living Guru of the Sikhs. Unlike other religious texts, it is treated not merely as a book, but as the living embodiment of the divine wisdom (Shabad Guru) of the Gurus.
Universal Interfaith Composition
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a unique interfaith masterpiece. Across its 1,430 Angs (sacred pages), it contains 5,894 poetic hymns composed by:
- 6 Sikh Gurus (Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji).
- 15 Hindu and Muslim mystic saints (Bhagats like Kabir, Baba Farid, Ravidas, Namdev, Trilochan, Jaidev).
- 11 Court poets (Bhatts) and 3 Gurmukh devotees (Sunder, Satta, and Balwand).
Musical Structure in 31 Classical Raags
The entire scripture is arranged in 31 classical musical Raags (such as Raag Asa, Suhi, Bilawal, Sarang, and Bhairav). Each Raag corresponds to a specific time of day, season, and emotional mood, designed to attune the human mind to divine peace through singing (Kirtan).
Royal Reverence (Parkash and Sukhasan)
In every Gurdwara, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is seated on a royal elevated throne (Takht) under an ornamental canopy (Chanani), respectfully fanned with a Chaur Sahib. Each morning, it is ceremoniously opened (Parkash), and each evening, it is retired to a restful sanctuary (Sukhasan) in a palanquin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Angs (pages) are in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji?
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji contains exactly 1,430 Angs (pages) across all printed copies worldwide.
How many classical Raags are used in the scripture?
The scripture is organized into 31 classical Indian musical Raags.
Which non-Sikh saints have hymns in Guru Granth Sahib?
Hymns of 15 mystic saints including Bhagat Kabir, Baba Farid, Bhagat Ravidas, and Bhagat Namdev are enshrined with equal status.
What is the meaning of Shabad Guru?
Shabad Guru means that the divine Word/Sound Current is the true spiritual teacher and illuminator of the soul.