Guru Amar Das Ji: A Life of Humility, Equality, and Divine Wisdom

Guru Amar Das Ji: The Epitome of Humility and Service

Introduction

Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Guru of Sikhism, is a shining example of humility, devotion, and selfless service. He played a crucial role in shaping Sikh values, spreading the message of equality, and strengthening the Sikh community. Born in 1479 in Basarke village (now in Punjab, India), Guru Amar Das Ji became the Guru at the age of 73 after serving Guru Angad Dev Ji with utmost dedication. His life teaches us the significance of faith, discipline, and service to humanity.

Guru Amar Das Ji’s contributions to Sikhism were remarkable. He emphasized social equality, established the Langar (community kitchen) as a practice for all, and strengthened the spiritual and social foundation of Sikhism. His Gurbani (sacred hymns) guide us on the path of righteousness, devotion, and selfless service. This article explores the inspiring story of Guru Amar Das Ji, along with the teachings of his Gurbani.

Guru Amar Das Ji’s Journey to Spirituality

Guru Amar Das Ji was born into a Hindu family and lived a simple life. He was deeply religious and followed Hindu traditions for many years. One day, he heard the divine Bani (hymns) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which touched his soul. His quest for spiritual enlightenment led him to Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru. At the age of 62, he became a devoted disciple of Guru Angad Dev Ji and served him with complete dedication.

For 12 years, Guru Amar Das Ji performed humble services, such as bringing water from the river for the Guru’s bath, cleaning the langar hall, and serving food to devotees. His humility and dedication won the Guru’s heart. Eventually, in 1552, Guru Angad Dev Ji appointed him as the next Guru of the Sikhs.

Guru Amar Das Ji’s Contributions to Sikhism

Guru Amar Das Ji’s leadership transformed Sikhism into a well-organized and socially progressive faith. Some of his major contributions include:

1. Establishing the Langar System

Guru Amar Das Ji made Langar (free community kitchen) a mandatory practice. He ensured that every visitor, regardless of caste, religion, or social status, sat together to eat before meeting him. This practice promoted equality and eliminated social discrimination.

Gurbani Teaching on Equality:

> ਇਕੁ ਪਿਤਾ ਇਕਸ ਕੇ ਹਮ ਬਾਰਿਕ

ਤੂ ਮੇਰਾ ਗੁਰ ਹਾਈ ॥ (Ang 611, Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

"There is One Father, we are all His children. You are my true Guru."

This verse emphasizes that God is the Father of all, and everyone is equal in His eyes.

2. Promoting Women's Rights

During Guru Amar Das Ji’s time, women were treated as inferior. He opposed social evils like purdah (veil system) and sati (burning of widows). He encouraged women to take leadership roles in religious and social matters. Guru Ji appointed many women as preachers, proving that Sikhism upholds gender equality.

Gurbani Teaching on Women:

> ਭੰਡਿ ਜੰਮੀਐ ਭੰਡਿ ਨਿੰਮੀਐ

ਭੰਡਿ ਮੰਗਣੁ ਵੀਆਹੁ ॥ (Ang 473, Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

"From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married."

This Gurbani highlights the importance of women in society and condemns gender discrimination.

3. Spreading Sikhism Across India

Guru Amar Das Ji appointed 22 Manjis (preaching centers) across India, where dedicated Sikhs spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This helped in expanding Sikhism and establishing a strong community of followers.

4. Writing Gurbani and Spiritual Teachings

Guru Amar Das Ji composed 869 hymns, which were later included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. His Gurbani focuses on God’s devotion, humility, and selfless service.

Gurbani on True Devotion:

> ਸੇਵਕੁ ਸਿਖੁ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ

ਮੰਨੇ ਗੁਰ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ॥ (Ang 601, Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

"A true disciple serves the Guru and follows the Guru’s teachings."

This verse reminds us that true Sikhs should follow the Guru’s words with faith.

A Test of Guru Amar Das Ji’s Humility

Once, the Mughal emperor Akbar visited Guru Amar Das Ji’s Langar. Before meeting the Guru, Akbar had to sit on the floor and eat with ordinary people. This act humbled him, and he realized the greatness of Sikh teachings. He was so impressed that he offered land to Guru Ji, but Guru Amar Das Ji humbly refused, saying that Sikhism does not depend on royal support but on God’s grace.

The Final Teachings and Legacy

Before leaving his physical form in 1574, Guru Amar Das Ji appointed Guru Ram Das Ji as the fourth Sikh Guru. He taught Sikhs to:

Serve selflessly without expecting rewards.

Treat everyone as equal, regardless of caste, gender, or religion.

Follow the Guru’s teachings and remain devoted to Waheguru (God).

Gurbani on the Importance of Guru:

> ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹੋਵੈ ਸੋਈ ਜਾਣੈ

ਜਿਸੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ॥ (Ang 601, Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

"Only a blessed soul understands the Guru’s teachings through God’s grace."

This Gurbani teaches that only fortunate ones receive the Guru’s wisdom and blessings.

Conclusion

Guru Amar Das Ji’s life is an inspiration for all. His teachings on equality, humility, and devotion to God remain relevant even today. He emphasized that true spirituality lies in serving humanity and living a disciplined life with faith in God.

His Gurbani continues to guide millions of Sikhs toward a path of righteousness. By following Guru Amar Das Ji’s teachings, we can develop a loving, humble, and service-oriented life. Let us walk on his path and seek the divine wisdom he shared with the world.