In Sikh tradition, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is not merely a book—it is the living Guru, and its physical form is revered as a divine body. The term “organ” (ang) is used to describe its pages, emphasizing that each part is as vital as a limb of the living Guru. Just as pain in one part of the body affects the whole, every page of Guru Granth Sahib Ji must be treated with utmost reverence.
A Divine Lesson from Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Time
A profound incident from the life of Guru Arjan Dev Ji illustrates this principle. Baba Buddha Ji, the first Granthi (custodian) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, was performing Sukhasan (the ceremonial resting of the Guru Granth Sahib at night). Unknowingly, a strand of his hair fell into the sacred scripture.
The next morning, when Baba Buddha Ji went to see Guru Arjan Dev Ji, he noticed the Guru’s eyes were red and swollen, as if in pain all night. Concerned, Baba Buddha Ji asked, “Prabhu Ji, why are your eyes red?”
With divine humility, Guru Arjan Dev Ji replied, “We suffered discomfort in our eyes all night. When you performed Sukhasan, a strand of your hair fell into Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The dust from that hair kept troubling our eyes.”
The Eternal Message
This sakhi (spiritual account) teaches us that Guru Granth Sahib Ji is not just a book but the living embodiment of the Guru’s divine presence. Every “ang” (page) is sacred, and even the smallest neglect can disturb its sanctity.
- Respect for the Guru’s Physical Form: Just as we care for a living being, we must handle the Guru Granth Sahib with pure hands, a clean heart, and full attention.
- Attention in Seva: Even unintentional mistakes can have spiritual significance, reminding us to serve with utmost mindfulness.
- Guru’s Living Presence: The Guru feels and responds to our devotion—or lack thereof—just as a living guide would.
This profound lesson continues to guide Sikhs in their reverence for Guru Granth Sahib Ji, ensuring that every ang is treated as a sacred part of the Guru’s divine form. Satguru Ji’s love is boundless, but our devotion must match that sacredness in every way.
ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਨੂੰ ਸਾਡਾ ਸੱਚਾ ਗੁਰੂ ਮੰਨ ਕੇ, ਹਰ ਅੰਗ ਦਾ ਆਦਰ ਕਰਨਾ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ। 🙏
