Why in news:

• Recently, the 450th Jyoti Jot Diwas, marking the passing of Sri Guru Amardas Ji, was commemorated.

Key Points:

• Sri Guru Amardas Ji was the third Sikh Guru, passed away on September 1, 1574. This significant event highlights his contributions to Sikhism and the lasting impact of his teachings.

Sri Guru Amardas Ji

• Birth and early life: Born in 1479 in Basarke, a village in the Amritsar district, Sri Guru Amardas Ji was raised in an orthodox Hindu family. His spiritual journey began when he was inspired by the hymns of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He subsequently adopted Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji as his spiritual mentor.
• Appointment as Guru: In March 1552, at the age of 73, he was appointed as the third Guru, succeeding Guru Angad Dev Ji. He established his headquarters in Goindwal, which became a center for Sikh teachings.

Key contributions

• Administrative reforms: To effectively manage the growing Sikh community, Guru Amardas Ji divided it into 22 administrative districts known as Manjis. Each Manji served as a center for religious preaching and administration, facilitating the spread of Sikh teachings across regions
• Guru ka Langar: He reinforced the tradition of Guru ka Langar (communal kitchen), insisting that visitors partake in communal meals before meeting him. This practice promoted equality and community spirit among all attendees, regardless of caste or social status
• Social Reforms: Guru Amardas Ji actively campaigned against social injustices. He abolished practices such as Sati (widow immolation) and the Purdah system (veiling of women), advocating for women's rights and dignity
• His respectful relationship with Emperor Akbar led to significant reforms, including the abolition of the toll-tax (pilgrim’s tax) for non-Muslims. This interaction not only solidified Sikhism's position but also showcased its commitment to equality
• Anand Karaj Marriage Ceremony: He introduced the ceremony of Anand Karaj, which became a fundamental aspect of Sikh marriages, emphasizing spiritual union over traditional rituals

• Pilgrimage Site at Goindwal Sahib: Guru Amardas Ji constructed a Baoli (stepwell) at Goindwal Sahib, which became a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs. The Baoli has 84 steps symbolizing the cycle of life and death
• He composed a total of 869 verses, including the renowned hymn Anand Sahib. These hymns were later incorporated into the Guru Granth Sahib, enriching Sikh scripture with profound spiritual insights
• Sri Guru Amardas Ji passed away at the age of 95 on September 1, 1574. Notably, he chose his son-in-law, Guru Ram Das Ji, as his successor instead of his own sons, emphasizing merit over lineage in leadership within the Sikh community.