Third Sikh Guru Amardas Ji (May 5, 1479- September 1, 1574)

Guru Amardas Ji (May 5, 1479- September 1, 1574)

Early Life and Background:

Guru Amardas Ji was born on May 5, 1479 in the village of Basarke (now in Amritsar district). His father, Tej Bhan Ji, was a farmer and merchant, and his mother's name was Lakhmi Devi. His early life was spent in the Vaishnav tradition, and he made many pilgrimages.

Introduction to the Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:

At the age of about 60, Guru Amardas Ji met his daughter-in-law (Guru Angad Dev Ji's wife, Bibi Amro). Bibi Amro told him about Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings and about Guru Angad Dev Ji. Impressed by her words, Guru Amardas Ji went to Khadur Sahib to meet Guru Angad Dev Ji.

Service and Discipleship of Guru Angad Dev Ji:

Guru Amardas Ji became completely devoted to the service of Guru Angad Dev Ji.  He brought water for Guru Ji's langar (community kitchen), chopped wood and did all other types of service work with devotion. His unwavering devotion, dedication and humility impressed Guru Angad Dev Ji very much. He deeply understood and imbibed the principles of Sikhism under the guidance of Guru Angad Dev Ji.

Attainment of Guru Gaddi:

Guru Angad Dev Ji, before his death, in 1552, appointed Guru Amardas Ji as his successor. This decision was opposed by his sons (Dasu and Datu), but Guru Angad Dev Ji remained firm on his decision. Guru Amardas Ji became the third Guru of Sikhism at the age of 73.

Establishment and Development of Goindwal Sahib:

Guru Amardas Ji established the new center named Goindwal Sahib, which became an important center for the preaching and propagation of Sikhism. He built a baoli (well with stairs going down) here, which is considered sacred.  The construction of this baoli solved the water problem and it became an important social and religious place for the Sikhs.

Strengthening the Langar tradition:

Guru Amardas Ji further strengthened the Langar tradition started by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He made a rule that any person, irrespective of caste, religion or social status, would eat at the langar before meeting the Guru. This practice promoted the message of equality and brotherhood and played an important role in breaking caste discrimination.

Introduction of the Manji System:

To spread the message of Sikhism far and wide and organize the community, Guru Amardas Ji introduced the 'Manji' system. He divided the entire area into 22 Manjis (religious preaching centers) and appointed a dedicated and qualified Sikh in charge of each Manji. These Manjidars used to preach the principles of Sikhism in their respective areas and organize Sangat (religious gatherings).

 Preparation for compilation of Guru Granth Sahib:

Guru Amardas Ji started the task of collecting the Bani (teachings) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Angad Dev Ji. He got these sacred compositions compiled systematically, which later became the basis for the compilation of Guru Granth Sahib by Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

Social reform:

Guru Amardas Ji opposed many evils prevalent in the society. He strongly opposed the practice of Sati (burning a wife alive after the death of her husband) and encouraged widow remarriage. He raised his voice for the equality and respect of women and inspired them to actively participate in religious and social activities.

Meeting with Mughal Emperor Akbar:

The fame of Guru Amardas Ji spread far and wide. Mughal Emperor Akbar was also impressed by him and came to Goindwal Sahib to meet him. The emperor sat and ate with the common people in the langar and respected the views of Guru Ji.

 Personality and Teachings:

Guru Amardas Ji was a calm, serious, determined and visionary personality. His teachings are based on unwavering faith in God, selfless service, equality, brotherhood and social justice. He preached Sikhs to lead a simple and truthful life, to stay away from ego and to consider all human beings equal. His emphasis was on inner purity and devotion rather than external pomp.

Jyoti Jot Samana:

Guru Amardas Ji left his physical body on September 1, 1574 at Goindwal Sahib. He appointed his son-in-law and disciple, Bhai Jetha Ji (later known as Guru Ramdas Ji) as his successor.

The life of Guru Amardas Ji was a turning point in the history of Sikhism. He provided a strong base to the Sikh community, raised his voice against social evils and established the values ​​of equality and service. His teachings inspire humanity even today and pave the way for Sikhism.