Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru, holds a revered place in Sikh history. Born as Lehna on March 31, 1504, in Matte Di Sarai (now Sri Muktsar Sahib district, Punjab), his life is a shining example of devotion, humility, and selfless service. He transformed from a devout follower of Goddess Durga to a dedicated disciple of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, ultimately shaping the course of Sikhism.
Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Lehna’s early life, though rooted in Hindu traditions, was marked by a deep spiritual seeking. Born to a trader, Pheru Mal, and Mata Ramo (also known as Mata Sabhirai, Mansa Devi, or Daya Kaur), he was drawn to religious practices from a young age, initially as a devotee of Goddess Durga. He married Mata Khivi in January 1520, and their family life blessed them with two sons, Dasu and Datu, and two daughters, Amro and Anokhi. Before his pivotal encounter with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Lehna served as a priest and religious teacher, further fueling his spiritual quest.
At the age of 27, Lehna’s life took a dramatic turn. Hearing the divine hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji ignited a spark within him, and he embarked on a journey to Kartarpur to meet the Guru. This meeting was transformative, leading Lehna to embrace Sikhism wholeheartedly. He dedicated himself to Guru Nanak’s teachings, demonstrating unwavering obedience and selfless service. This profound shift underscores the inclusive nature of Sikhism, welcoming seekers from all paths.
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Guru Angad Dev Ji: The Second Guru
After Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s passing on September 22, 1539, Lehna, now renamed Angad (meaning “part of the body” or “one’s own”), became the second Sikh Guru. He was formally appointed as successor on September 7, 1539, a testament to Guru Nanak’s recognition of Angad’s profound devotion and dedication.
Guru Angad Dev Ji carried forward Guru Nanak’s teachings with utmost reverence. He formalized the Gurmukhi script, adapting it from the existing Punjabi script, thus making it accessible to the masses. This monumental task helped preserve and propagate Sikh scriptures, allowing more people to connect with the divine wisdom. He also championed education, establishing schools and promoting literacy within the community. His vision was to empower individuals through knowledge and spiritual understanding.
Beyond spiritual growth, Guru Angad Dev Ji also emphasized physical well-being. He introduced the Mal Akhara tradition, a system of physical exercise and wrestling, demonstrating his belief in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. He saw physical health as a complement to spiritual development.
Guru Angad Dev Ji himself penned 63 Shabads and Saloks (sacred hymns and verses), which are now enshrined within the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. These writings are a testament to his deep spiritual insight and poetic expression.
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Legacy of Service and Devotion
Guru Angad Dev Ji’s leadership consolidated the Sikh community, strengthening its identity. His focus on Langar, the community kitchen initiated by Guru Nanak, fostered a spirit of selfless service and equality, providing nourishment for both body and soul. He ensured that everyone, regardless of background, could partake in this sacred act of sharing.
Before his passing on March 29, 1552, at the age of 48 in Khadur Sahib, Guru Angad Dev Ji appointed Guru Amar Das as his successor, ensuring the continuation of the Sikh lineage.
Honoring Guru Angad Dev Ji with Poojn.in
At poojn.in, we understand the deep reverence for Guru Angad Dev Ji. That’s why we offer a curated selection of authentic Sikh religious items, helping you connect with his teachings on a personal level.
- Gutka Sahib: Carry the divine words with you wherever you go with our beautifully crafted Gutka Sahib prayer books. These contain daily prayers and hymns, allowing for moments of reflection and connection with the Guru’s wisdom. We offer a variety of sizes and covers to suit individual preferences.
- Pure Cotton Rumala Sahib: Show respect and reverence to the Guru Granth Sahib with our pure cotton Rumala Sahibs. These exquisite coverings are crafted with care and devotion, maintaining the sanctity of your sacred scriptures. Choose from a range of colors and designs.
- Brass Chaur Sahib: Participate in seva with reverence using our traditionally crafted Brass Chaur Sahibs. These ceremonial items are essential for Sikh rituals and demonstrate respect for the Guru Granth Sahib. Our Chaur Sahibs are crafted with high-quality brass for lasting beauty.
- Kesri Turbans: Embrace tradition with our Kesri Turbans, symbolizing courage and faith. These saffron-colored turbans are a powerful symbol of Sikh identity and are made from premium fabrics for comfort and durability.
- Prayer Mats: Create a peaceful space for prayer and meditation with our comfortable prayer mats. These mats provide a clean and designated area for your spiritual practices, enhancing your connection with the divine. Choose from a variety of sizes and materials.
Visit poojn.in to explore our complete collection of Sikh religious items. We offer secure packaging and pan-India delivery.
