Guru Arjan Dev, fifth Sikh leader (d. 1606)

Guru Arjan Dev (Gurmukhi: ਗੁਰੂ ਅਰਜਨ, pronunciation: [gʊɾuː əɾd͡ʒənᵊ]), born on April 15, 1563, and martyred on May 30, 1606, holds an exceptionally significant and revered position within the Sikh faith. As the fifth of the ten Sikh Gurus, he led the community through a period of profound spiritual and organizational development, leaving an indelible mark that continues to guide millions worldwide. His life culminated in martyrdom, making him the first of two Gurus to make the ultimate sacrifice for their beliefs, an event that profoundly shaped the future trajectory of Sikhism.

Early Life and Spiritual Lineage

Born in Goindval, a town in the heart of Punjab, Guru Arjan's lineage was deeply rooted in the spiritual succession of the Gurus. He was the youngest son of Bhai Jetha, who would later ascend to the Guruship as Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru. His mother was Mata Bhani, herself the daughter of Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru. This unique heritage meant Guru Arjan was steeped in Sikh teachings and values from his earliest days, growing up in an environment rich with spiritual wisdom and service. This direct connection to three previous Gurus provided him with an unparalleled foundation for his eventual leadership.

The Sacred City of Amritsar and the Darbar Sahib

A monumental achievement of Guru Arjan’s Guruship was the completion and beautification of what is now globally recognized as the Darbar Sahib, often referred to as the Golden Temple, located in Amritsar. The town itself was founded by his father, Guru Ram Das, who also initiated the construction of the sacred pool. Guru Arjan meticulously oversaw the completion of this magnificent architectural and spiritual marvel, which stands as the most sacred shrine in Sikhism. Its design, notably featuring four doors opening in all cardinal directions, symbolizes its open invitation to people of all castes, creeds, and religions, reflecting the universal message of inclusion and equality central to Sikh philosophy. The Darbar Sahib quickly became, and remains, a vital spiritual and cultural center for the Sikh community.

The Compilation of the Adi Granth

Perhaps Guru Arjan’s most monumental and enduring contribution was the compilation of the first official edition of the Sikh holy scripture, known as the Adi Granth. This sacred work brought together the divine hymns (shabads) of the previous Sikh Gurus, including his own, as well as the teachings and poetry of various Hindu and Muslim saints from diverse backgrounds, such as Kabir, Ravidas, and Namdev. This inclusive approach underscored the universal message of God and truth beyond sectarian divides. Guru Arjan personally undertook the arduous task of collecting, editing, and authenticating these spiritual compositions, ensuring their accuracy and integrity. Upon its completion in 1604, he reverently installed the Adi Granth within the Harimandir Sahib, proclaiming it as the living word of God. This foundational text later expanded to become the Guru Granth Sahib, which Sikhs revere as their eternal, living Guru, providing spiritual guidance and wisdom for all time.

Strengthening the Sikh Community: The Dasvand and Masand System

Guru Arjan was not only a spiritual leader but also a brilliant organizer who significantly strengthened the structural and financial foundations of the nascent Sikh community. He reorganized the Masand system, which had been initiated by his father, Guru Ram Das. Under Guru Arjan’s guidance, Sikhs were encouraged to practice dasvand, a spiritual principle suggesting a voluntary donation of one-tenth of their income, goods, or service to the Sikh organization. This practice was not merely a tax, but a form of selfless service (seva) and communal responsibility, fostering a sense of collective ownership and dedication among followers. The Masands, trusted representatives appointed by the Guru, were responsible for collecting these funds, but their role extended far beyond mere finance. They also served as educators, teaching the tenets of Sikhism, and as community arbitrators, settling civil disputes within their respective regions. The funds collected through dasvand were crucial for financing the construction of new gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and sustaining langars (shared communal kitchens), which provided free meals to all, irrespective of their background, further solidifying the community's infrastructure and its commitment to social equality.

Martyrdom: A Defining Moment

The final chapter of Guru Arjan’s life is marked by profound sacrifice and steadfastness. In an era of escalating political tensions, particularly with the Mughal Empire, Guru Arjan's growing influence and the inclusive nature of Sikhism began to draw the ire of Emperor Jahangir. In 1606 CE, under Jahangir's direct orders, Guru Arjan was arrested. He was subjected to immense pressure and was specifically asked to remove any references to Hinduism and Islam from the Adi Granth, which the Emperor perceived as potentially syncretic or challenging to his authority. Guru Arjan resolutely refused to alter the sacred scripture, standing firm in his belief in the universality and divine origin of its contents. This refusal led to his brutal torture and eventual execution in 1606 CE. While historical records and Sikh tradition provide slightly varying accounts regarding the exact manner of his death – some suggest drowning, while others indicate he succumbed during the torture – his ultimate sacrifice for his faith and principles remains undisputed. His martyrdom is widely considered a watershed event in the history of Sikhism, transforming the community’s resolve and signaling a turning point that would eventually lead to the development of the Khalsa.

Legacy and Remembrance

Guru Arjan's martyrdom is not merely a historical event; it is a profound testament to unwavering faith and a cornerstone of Sikh identity. It is solemnly commemorated each year as Shaheedi Divas of Guru Arjan, typically observed in May or June according to the Nanakshahi calendar, which was released by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee in 2003. His legacy extends far beyond his sacrifice; he is remembered as the compiler of the Adi Granth, the builder of the Darbar Sahib, and a visionary leader who meticulously organized and strengthened the Sikh community. His life and death continue to inspire Sikhs worldwide to uphold the values of truth, compassion, and selfless service, even in the face of extreme adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Guru Arjan Dev?

Guru Arjan Dev was the fifth of the ten Sikh Gurus, born in 1563. He is revered for his profound spiritual contributions, most notably the compilation of the Adi Granth, and for his martyrdom in 1606.

What was Guru Arjan Dev's most significant contribution?

His most significant contribution was the compilation of the Adi Granth, the first official edition of the Sikh holy scripture, which later evolved into the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal living Guru for Sikhs. He also oversaw the completion of the Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.

Why was Guru Arjan Dev martyred?

Guru Arjan Dev was martyred under the orders of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. He was asked to remove what were perceived as syncretic references to Hinduism and Islam from the Adi Granth. His refusal to alter the sacred scripture led to his arrest, torture, and execution in 1606 CE.

What is the significance of his martyrdom in Sikhism?

His martyrdom is considered a watershed event in Sikh history. It marked a turning point, demonstrating the community's unwavering commitment to its faith and principles, and profoundly influencing the future trajectory and self-definition of Sikhism.

What is the Adi Granth?

The Adi Granth is the original compilation of Sikh scripture, compiled by Guru Arjan Dev. It contains hymns and teachings of the Sikh Gurus and various Hindu and Muslim saints. It is the foundational text that later became the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture and eternal Guru of Sikhism.

What was the Dasvand system?

The Dasvand system, reorganized by Guru Arjan Dev, was a spiritual practice encouraging Sikhs to voluntarily donate one-tenth of their income, goods, or service to the Sikh organization. This system funded communal projects like gurdwaras and langars, strengthening the community's infrastructure and fostering selfless service.

When is Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom remembered?

His martyrdom is commemorated annually as Shaheedi Divas of Guru Arjan, typically observed in May or June according to the Nanakshahi calendar.