Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur: Difference between revisions

From SikhiWiki
Jump to navigationJump to search
mNo edit summary
 
(63 intermediate revisions by 8 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
== Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar ==
{{fa|10}}
(1621-75)
{{fa1|266}}
[[Image:GuruTeghBahadurJi FreedomOfReligion2.jpg|thumb|425px|right|Guru Tegh Bahadar with the Kashmiri Pandits]]


* ''' Under Contruction - Please do not change or edit'''
''(On 24 November 1675 at [[Chandni Chowk]], [[Delhi]], [[India]])''


from [http://allaboutsikhs.com/history/his0711.htm]
This was an extremely important event in [[Sikh]] history that had a profound impact on the future direction of [[Sikhism]], the religion of the [[Sikh]]s.  


1675  Guru Tegh Bahadhur left Anadpur Sahib for Delhi to help save Hindu dharma from total extinction.
[[Guru Tegh Bahadar]], the ninth [[Sikh Guru]] undertook the '''supreme sacrifice for the protection of the most fundamental of human rights''' - the right of a person to freely practice his or her religion without interference or hindrance.  


Kashmiri Pandits, led by Kirpa Das of Mattan (Martand), reached Chak Nanki, Kahlur (old name of Anadpur Sahib). He appealed to Guru Tegh Bahadhur for his help in against the prosecution of Kashmiri Pandits by Aurangzeb's forces and resulting extinction of hindu dharma. After appointing Gobind Rai as the next Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadhur left for Delhi on July 11, 1675. After Guruji's martyrdom, Pandit Kirpa Das stayed back and became Kirpa Singh after taking amort in 1699 and died fighting at Chamkaut along with the two elder sahibjadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
In the modern times we tend to take this freedom for granted – but in 1675, millions of people were denied this basic right. There was forced conversion of religion; many thousands were killed for refusing to change their religion.


When Guru Tegh Bahadhur sacrificed himself to save the Kashmiri Pandits from extinction in 1675, Guru Gobind Singh put his stamp on this truth by proclaiming "The Lord (Guru Tegh Bahadhur) protected the sacred thread and the frontal mark of the Hindus: He performed a great deed in the age of Kalyug." However, it is strange that the Kashmiri Pandits did not build any memorial in honour of Guruji. On the other hand the present generation had started doubting the veracity of this event.
==Unique sacrifice==


==> GURU TEGH BAHADUR (1621-1675): RAG SORATH
To give ones life for a cause is a difficult and highly challenging undertaking. Many in past human history have given their lives for their own personal reason; however, what is  astonishing in the case of the ninth [[Sikh Guru]] is the fact that the Guru was not protecting the right of his "own people" called the [[Sikh]]s to practise their religion but instead the rights of the '''non-Sikhs, the peace-loving people from Kashmir'''.


    That man who in the midst of grief is free from grieving,
These people from Kashmir were '''very respected [[Hindu]]s pundits (scholars) who were being threatened with conversion to [[Islam]], under the threat of death''' by the "[[Muslim]]" Emperor, [[Aurangzeb]]. In 1669, the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb departed from the policy of tolerance practised by his predecessors and unleashed instead a policy of '''religious persecution against non-Muslims'''. This caused large-scale demoralisation, fear and panic among the people.
    And free from fear, and free from the snare of delight,
    Nor is covetous of gold that he knows to be dust,
    Who is neither a backbiter nor a flatterer,
    Nor has greed in his heart, nor vdnity, nor any worldly attachment,
    Who remains at his centre unmoved by good and ill fortune,
    Who indifferent to the world's praise and blame
    And discards every wishful fantasy
    Accepting his lot in the disinterested fashion,
    Not worked upon by lust or by wrath,
    In such a man God dwelleth.
    The man on vjhom the Grace of the Guru alights
    Understands the way of conduct:
    His soul, 0 Nanak, is mingled with the Lord
    As water mingles with water!


In the galaxy of immortal martyrs who laid down their precious lives to keep ablaze the flame of faith and freedom, the name of the Ninth Master, Guru Tegh Bahadur stands out radiantly prominent. Doubtless, there have been prophets who sacrificed themselves at the altar of their own religion, but the uniqueness of the Ninth Master's martyrdom lies in the fact that he courted death in defending the religion of the persecuted Hindus who had sought his shelter when they were forced to choose between death and Islam. Guru Tegh Bahadur, the second martyr Guru, who was born at Amritsar in 1621, was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the Sixth Master (1595-1645). Guru Har Rai, the Seventh Master (1630-61), and Guru Hari Krishna, the Eight Master (1656-1964): however, preceded him as Gurus. He adorned the sacred throne of Guru Nanak from 1664 to 1675. His installation as Guru enraged Dhirmal and the masands, who were the most contentious claimants to the Guruship.
The commitment by the [[Sikh]] [[Guru]] to protect and support the liberty of all the people of a country was unprecedented. This type of '''supreme sacrifice had never previously been recorded in human history'''. On May 25, 1675 in answer to an appeal of a large group of revered Kashmiri Pandits, Guru Tegh Bahadur made the '''momentous decision that has forever changed the level of moral commitment, dedication and sacrifice''' required by followers of God. The Guru made this critical decision to risk laying  down his life if necessary  '''to protect the right of the Hindus to follow their religion freely without interference or duress'''.


Guru Tegh Bahadur toured the Punjab, particularly the Malwa region, and Eastern India, to preach Sikhism. He also went to Assam with Raja Ram Singh and stayed with him for nearly two years. The Guru's family accompanied him on this trip, but, while proceeding to Assam, he left his familly at Patna. It was here that his only son Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708) was born. While leaving Assam for the Punjab, Guru Tegh Bahadur broke his journey at Patna for a short time and then returned to the Punjab. He purchased land from the Raja of Kahloor at Makhowal (Anandpur) and settled down there. From here he set out on extensive missionary tours and attracted amongst others, several Muslims to his faith.
== Introduction ==
{{p|File:Guruteghbahadurmartyr.jpg|''"There was sadness on Earth but joy in Heaven"''<br>[[Guru Gobind Singh]]}}


The main theme of Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacred hymns is Nam Simran (concentration on the Divine Name) and Guru Bhakti (adoration of the Guru). One hundred and fifteen hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur are incorporated in the Adi Granth.
The Guru by this act has set a yardstick by which the [[Sikh]] must gauge their devotion to their religion. It is now not acceptable to say that:  '''"I believe in the right of others to practise their faith peacefully"''' - this does not even get near the level of awareness required for the followers of [[Sikhism]]. The Guru has by his example taught the followers to maintain a high level of morality.


He has clearly set forth his own definition of Giani (or the enlightened one). In these compositions he has laid special stress on vairag or detachment for the realisation of the lofty ideals that distinguish the life of a BrahmGiani.


During Guru Tegh Bahadur's ministry, Emperor Aurangzeb intensified his fanatical plans for forcibly converting the Hindus to Islam. This move had serious repercussions in Kashmir, and, the learned Pandits of Kashmir came to Guru Tegh Bahadur to seek refuge. The Guru advised them to go and tell Aurangzeb that if he could persuade Guru Tegh Bahadur to embrace Islam, they would all willingly become Muslims. This proposal appealed to Aurangzeb, who had already hatched plans to bring to an end Guru Tegh Bahadur's missionary activities, so, he at once issued orders for his arrest.
It is not even acceptable to say: '''"I, as a Sikh respect and honour other religions"''' – even this does not get the [[Sikh]] to the required threshold of "wakefulness" ("Surat"). The [[Sikh]] mind-set has to get to a position of consciousness where he or she will be able to say: "I as a Sikh am ready to die to protect the right of the people of all faiths". The ability to advance to these reaches of awareness (Surtee or Surat) is a gift obtainable from the Almighty, and was the lesson taught by [[Guru Tegh Bahadur]] to the followers of [[Sikhism]]. Not only does the [[Guru]]'s words mention this clearly in [[Gurbani]], but the life of the [[Guru]]s also actually reinforces these words of Bani.  


The Guru, along with some of his companions was finally brought to Delhi and asked to convert to Islam or else face the penalty of death. The Master averred that he would sacrifice his life rather than give up his faith and his freedom of belief. Thus, under Aurangzeb's orders, he was beheaded at the place now called Sis Ganj in Delhi. His martyrdom was yet another challenge to the Sikh conscience. It was realized then that there could be no understanding between an insensate power imbrued with blood and a proud people wedded to a life of peace with honour. The sacrifice roused the devitalized Hindus from their supine somnolence and gave them a hint of the power that comes from self-respect and sacrifice. Guru Tegh Bahadur thus earned the enduring sobriquet title of Hind-di-Chadar or the Shield of India.
{{Srigranth|32|1332|naanak sobhaa surat day-ay parabh aapay gurmukh day vadi-aa-ee. ((4)(15)(48)) <br>
O Nanak, by His Grace, He bestows enlightened awareness; God Himself blesses the Gurmukh with glorious greatness.}}


-Ref. "Guru Granth Ratnavali," (pp. 70) by Dr. D.S. Mani, Sardar Bakhshish Singh, and Dr. Gurdit Singh


----
It should be remembered that the Gurus did not believe in the practises of the Hindu religion and had issued various holy [[Shabad]]s denouncing various Hindu practises like [[Sati]], [[Purdah]], Idol worship, etc. However, this had no bearing when it came to the decision to protect these Kashmiri [[Hindu]]s - for the right of a person to freely practise their religion was considered to be predominant over their own personal beliefs and preferences.
BBC


Born in Amritsar, Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth of the ten Gurus who founded Sikhism.
Guru Gobind Singh recorded his father's martyrdom with these words:


He's honoured and remembered as the man who championed the rights for all religious freedom.
{{Quoter|Theekar fore dilees sir, Prabh par kiyo payan, <br>
Tegh Bahadur si kriya, Kari na kinhoo aan. <br>
Tegh Bahadur ke chalat, Bhayo jagat main sog. <br>
Hai hai hai sab jag bhayo, Jai jai jai sur log. <br> <br>


Contributions
He burst the bonds of mortal clay <br>
He taught liberation from attachment, fear and dependence. Strength should be gained through truth, worship, sacrifice and knowledge.
And went on to the abode of God. <br>
No one ever performed an act as noble <br>
As did Tegh Bahadur. <br>  <br>


During the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Islam was imposed on the people. Hindu temples were demolished and turned into mosques, higher taxes were charged to non-Muslims and the Emperor persecuted those who would not conform to Islamic law.
With the departure of Tegh Bahadur  <br>
The world was stricken with sorrow. <br>
A wail of horror rent the earth, <br>
A victor's welcome by the dwellers of heaven.|Bichitra Natak}}


Guru Tegh Bahadur spoke out amid this persecution. He refused to convert to Islam and in 1675, he was beheaded in Delhi. The site of his execution was later turned into an important Gurdwara.
To bring to the attention of all human beings in greater India and to record in world history the barbaric ways of the Mughal Empire, [[Guru Tegh Bahadar]] escalated the consciousness of the Sikh psyche to a newer level. It was now not acceptable for a God loving people to protect just their own kind, but it was the duty of all God loving people to protect the rights of all the people of God, no matter what their chosen religion may be. [[Guru Tegh Bahadar]] put into practise the profound message of [[Gurbani]] that had been existant  since [[Guru Nanak Dev]]'s time:


He's also remembered for his poetry, much of which is included in the Guru Granth Sahib.


He married Bibi Gujjari and they had one son, the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
{{Srigranth|1412|59915|If you desire to play this game of love with Me,
then step onto My Path with your head in your hand.}}


He founded the city of Anandpur which later became a centre of Sikhism.
[[Wikipedia:Aurangzeb|Emperor Aurangzeb]] was a barbaric ruler of the [[Wikipedia:Mughal|Mughal]] Dynasty who came to power in 1658 and ruled for 49  years until his death in 1707.  When he came to power in 1658, he killed or had killed his three brothers and imprisoned his father and forcibly converted Lakhs (hundreds of thousands) of Hindus to Islam. He is commonly considered the last of the "grand" Mughal emperors. His last 25 years were spent in the Deccan fighting a war of attrition against the Marathas which practically bankrupted the Mughal Empire, which never rose again to its onetime splendour. Thought the  succeeding Mughal Emperors were even more blood thirsty in their attempts to wipe out the Hindu and Sikh religions, they would soon fall to the perhaps, greater atrocities of the Persians, Afgaanis and the mixed blessings of the British conquerors that completed their demise.


The '''Kashmiri Pandits''' were Hindus renowned for their '''high intellect and education'''. They had a good relationship with the Sikhs and their Gurus. [[Guru Nanak Dev]] met Pandit Brahm Das who was an ancestor of [[Pandit Kripa Ram]] in Mattan. Kripa Ram had known the Ninth Guru and also taught [[Sanskrit]] classics to the young [[Gobind Rai]]. During the reign of Jehangir, [[Guru Hargobind]] came to Srinagar and met Kashmiri saintess Mata Bagh Bari, who lived at Rainawari. It is interesting to note that Mata Bagya Bari's spiritual interaction with the sixth Sikh Guru is incredibly well-preserved in the [[Sikh]] religious tradition. In Pandit tradition Mata Bagya Bari is a person renowned for her high spiritual merits.


{{Quoter|If you are strong, torture not the weak,
=== The Turning Point ===
And thus lay not the axe to thy empire. (109)
[[Image:GuruTeghBahadurJi.jpg|left|200px|Guru Tegh Bahadar]]
|[[Zafarnama]]}}


----
In early 1675, the Kashmiri Pandits approached [[Guru Tegh Bahadar]] to seek his assistance in their acute hour of need. These [[Hindu]]s from Kashmir had been given a deadline by [[Wikipedia:Aurangzeb|Emperor Aurangzeb]] to convert to Islam or be killed. Pandit Kripa Ram with his large delegation met [[Guru Tegh Bahadar]] at Chak Nanki, Kahlur (now known as [[Anandpur Sahib]]). He explained their dilemma to the Guru in the open [[Sangat]] at the place where today stands [[Gurdwara Manji Sahib]], in [[Anandpur Sahib]].
from [http://ikashmir.org/Exodus/3.html]


Aurengazeb the 'Puritan King' whose life is a sharp contrast to that of his predecessors/ancestors lost no time after as­cending the throne in Delhi in 1658 to convert whole of India to Islam. To fulfil this desire of his he had no hesitation in using and wielding sword. The fundamentalist emperor thew to winds the seemingly secular policy of his forefathers re­placing it by one of religious harassment and persecution. He re-imposed Jazia (poll tax). While the entire lndian people shuddered at his manner of building an Islamic state, he implemented a well calculated plan according to which he started with liquidating Hindu scholars in India in general and the Kashmiri Pandits in particular. Not surprising he did not spare his own father. According to him elimination of Hindu scholars was a pre-requisite for the spread of Islam India.
'''''"The Emperor had given us some time to decide to convert to Islam or to be executed. The time for deciding has expired. Now, we have to convert to Islam or die. What shall we do? Guru ji, we have no one else to turn to. We don't have an army to protect us - We need your help. Please assist us"''''', said Kripa Ram.


Since Kashmir has from times immemorial remained a prominent center for learning, Aurangzeb appointed 14 atrocious subedars as administrators and governors of Kashmir for its Islamization. Notable among them was Iftekhar Khan who during his regime (1617-75) unleashed his pack of hounds of cruelties of all sorts to leave the Kashmiri Hindus no alternative but to embrace Islam on pain of death. During his rule of five years of hair raising cruelty and tyranny Iftekhar Khan drove it home to Pandits that then future in their land of birth was assured only if they kissed Islam, failing which they must quit their homeland forthwith; there was no third option.
Guru ji is said to have gone into deep thought after Pandit Kripa Ram's request. At this point, it is said that Guru ji son, Gobind Rai walks into the Sangat to see Guru ji deep in thought.


In consequence of this dire threat thousands of Kashmiri Pandits succumbed to his policy of duress and treacherous religious bigotry of the vicious subeder and thus got converted to Islam. Thousands who could manage to withstand the tremendous pressure bade good bye to their homes and hearths and sought refuge in neighbouring regions to keep alive themselves and their faith that was so dear to them.
'''''"Guru ji, I see the acutely sad faces of the Sangat and you are silent and in deep thought. What is the problem?"''''' asked Gobind Rai to his father. Gobind is about 9 years old at this stage.


It is during the rule of Emperor Shah Jehan and Aurangzeb that Kashmiri Pandits driven out of Kashmir reached Delhi and settled down in Bazar Sitaram. Two prominent castes namely Zutshis and Shangloos reached there after a great ­struggle, difficulties and hardships. These castes over a period of generations had changed into Pehlvis (poets) and Topawallas, said one of the descendants of KPs living in Bazar Sitaram Shri Gulzar Pahlvi. There is a temple of ancient KPs now internally displaced communities in India believe in. It is said that Pandit Nehru's marriage procession had come all along from Allahabad to Bazar Sitaram where his marriage was solemnized. Their present priest is Iqbal Krishen Revoo.
Guru ji slowly turn to his son and explain the situation as concisely as possible.


It is during the Aurangzeb-Iftekhar Khan combine that re­duced the Kashmin Pandits as low as dust, nay they made them lick the dust. They trampled the Pandit psyche by subverting all the achievements of this advanced and learned community in social, economic and religious fields during the pseudo-secular stance of the earlier Mughals. Aurangzeb followed Islamic law with fervor showing no regard for nor­mal laws of Hindus.
'''''"Baata (Son), this is sangat from Kashmir. They are Hindus who have been friends of Sikhs since the time of Guru Nanak. They have a very serious problem on their hands"''''' said Guru ji.


When the religious persecution and cruelties perpetrated by Iftekhar Khan and approved by Aurangzeb made life un­bearable for Pandits in Kashmir, the latter decided to ap­proach the immortal national hero Shri Guru Teg Bahadur at Anand Sahib for rescuing the Kashmiri Hindus from Islamic onslaught by his personal intervention. A delegation of 500 KPs led by Pandit Kripa Ram learned person, called on the Guru and narrated their harrowing and woeful expe­riences of the diabolical misrule of Iftikhar Khan patronized by Aurangzeb whose wickedness had no parallel. These fun­damentalists thrust Islam by hook or by crook. They converted by atrocities, by polluting the KPs by banning the wearing of sacred thread and tilak, by sexual harassment and forcible abductions of the daughters of Hindus and other satanic misdeeds. The delegations appealed to Guru Teg Bahadur to deliver them from their religion of the land.
Gobind Rai replied, '''''"Pita ji, you are the Guru of the entire world ("Jagat Guru"). You will know of a solution to all problems"'''''


The great Saint whose face radiated Cecelia light was pain­fully moved on hearing the woeful tales narrated by the Kashmir Pandit suppliants. This great man from Punjab went to Delhi for the redressal of the grievances of the KPs and got killed by the cunning Aurangzeb. The Guru was asked to embrace Islam but he preferred death to change his Dharma which was most dear to him. Furious Muslim zealot Aurangzeb ordered the execution of Guru Teg Bahadur. His head was slit by one Jalal-ud-din Jalad (Executioner). In this way the Guru attained martyrdom for the sacred cause of saving Hindu Dharma. Shat Shat Pranam. Guru Maharaja's sacrifice sent a shiver down the spine of Aurangzeb and it marked the beginning of the fall of Mughal empire in India.
'''''"Baata, Emperor Aurangzeb has given them an ultimatum – If they do not become Muslims, he will kill them all"''''', explained Guru ji.


Despite the supreme sacrifice for the preservation of Hindu religion and Kashmiri ethos, the state terrorism remained unabated for sometime more. The desecration of temples and the killings of KPs continued and the process of exodus also continued.
Guru ji continued, '''''"Some well-known Religion person ("Mahapurakh") will have to make a sacrifice to stop this butchery. We have to find a supreme soul who will die so as to awaken the sleeping consciousness of the people of Hind"'''''.


A griping and inspiring and graphic account of this national issue and the unforgettable sacrifice and martyrdom of Guru along with his three disciples has been given by Giani Gian Singh in his book 'Shri Guru Granth Prakash' and another book 'Shri Guru Pratap Suraj' which are strongly recommended to the readers.  
'''''"Pita ji, there is an easy answer to this problem. You are the most spiritually aware person in whole of Hind. You can make that sacrifice"''''', answered Gobind Rai.


BY PROF. K. L. BHAN
Guru ji was pleased to hear these words as it confirmed that his son had reached a suitable age to become the next Guru, and that Guru ji's work on Earth had been completed.


----
Guru ji addressed the Pandits, '''''"Go and tell Aurangzeb that if he can convert Guru Tegh Bahadar to Islam, they will all convert. Otherwise he should leave them alone"'''''
from: [http://www.swordoftruth.com/swordoftruth/archives/oldarchives/teghbaha.html]


Aurangzeb decided to Islamize India as fast as possible, starting with Kashmir. He had a devil's brain and he devised all kinds of artifices to get his way. Writes Sir Jadu Nath Sarkar in his renowned five volume History of Aurangzeb:"In Kashmir, Hindus and Muslims used to intermarry, and the wife, whatever might have been her father's creed, was cremated or buried as her husband happened to be a Hindu or Islamite. But in October, 1634, Shah Jahan forbade the custom and ordered that every Hindu who had taken a Muslim wife must either embrace Islam and be married anew to her, or he must give her up to be wedded to a Muslim. This order was rigorously enforced."
The Pandits were delighted that a solution was found and duly informed Emperor Aurangzeb of the decision. Aurangzeb was delighted that by converting one person, he would without any further delay have the conversion of many 1000's to Islam. Accordingly he summoned his officers to arrest Guru Tegh Bahadar.


The ruse was to turn the Hindus into Muslims by virtue of political power. In any event, it was still a 'slow' process from Aurangzeb's point of view. He wanted to turn the world into a Koranic world of Muslims only and those who still did not opt for Islam, had no place in the kingdom.
===Timeline===


Aurangzeb ordered that every Hindu must become a Muslim under pain of death. The Hindus wanted a period of six months to consider the proposal, which was granted. Aurangzeb also issued a fiat that those who refused to be Mohammedans would be put to the sword and a wholesale order was issued to kill the Brahmins and collect their janeos or sacred threads, as proof of the slaughter. Aurangzeb demanded that enough Kashmiri Pandits were to be slaughtered every day, so that their sacred threads weigh at least 1.25 maunds.
{|style="width:90%; background:#f0f0f0; " border="1" cellpadding="7" cellspacing="0"
|width=20%| '''Date '''
|width=80%| '''Event'''
|-
| [[25 May]], [[1675]] || [[Pandit Kirpa Ram]], the leader of the [[Kashmiri Pandits]] arrives in [[Anandpur Sahib]] (then called Chak Nanki, Kahlur) to ask [[Guru Tegh Bahadur]] for help in preserving the Hindu faith in Kashmiri.
|-
| [[11 July]], [[1675]] || Guru Tegh Bahadur sets off for [[Delhi]]
|-
| [[27 July]], [[1675]]  || Guru Tegh Bahadur taken into custody by Nur Muhammad Khan Miraza of [[Ropar]] Police post, on [[Savan]] 12,1732 at Malikpur Ranghran, Pargana Ghanaula, and sent to [[Sirhind]].
|-
| [[9 November]], [[1675]] ||  the [[qazi]] ordered that [[Bhai Dayal Das]] be seated in a cauldron of boiling water
|-
| [[11 November]] 1675 || [[Bhai Mati Das]] sawn into two pieces and [[Bhai Sati Das]] was wrapped up in cotton wool and set on fire. They both attained martyrdom on this day.
|-
| [[24 November]], [[1675]] || Guru Tegh Bahadur attains martyrdom
|}


The weight of a single thread is very small and on calculation, it was found out that at least 25,000 Kashmiri pandits had to be killed every day in order to fulfill the requirement of the 1.25 maunds of thread. Naturally, there was panic among the Pandits. They met Guru Tegh Bahadur at Anandpur Sahib on May 25, 1675. They prayed to the Guru and said: "Our lot has become unbearable. You are rightly known as Hind ki Chader or Champion of the Hindus. We have been given six months' time in which to make our choice between Islam and death. That period is about to end...We have come to you for help, guidance and protection. O Champion of the Hindus!"


Naturally, the Guru was plunged into deep thought. He noticed the sad faces of the Brahmins. His young eight-year-old son, Govind Rai (the future Guru Gobind Singh) asked his father why these good men looked so worried? What has happened!
=== Guru goes to Delhi ===
----
from [http://www.sikhspectrum.com/042003/sangat_singh.htm]


Now look at what Emperor Jahangir writes in his Memoirs or autobiography, Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri:
[[Image:Rakab.jpg|left|200px|Gurdwara Rakab Sahib, Delhi]]


"There lived at Goindwal on the bank of the river (Beas) a Hindu named Arjan in the garb of a Pir and Shaikh, so much so that he had by his ways and means captivated the hearts of many simple-minded Hindus, nay, even of foolish and stupid Muslims and he had noised himself about as a religious and worldly leader. They called him Guru, and from all the directions, fools and fool-worshippers were attracted towards him and expressed full faith in him. For three or four generations they had kept this shop warm. For a long time the thought had been presenting itself to me that either I should put an end to this false traffic or he should be brought into the fold of Islam.
In the summer of 1675, the Guru, along with some of his companions were finally brought to Delhi and asked to '''convert to Islam or else face the penalty of death'''. Guru ji was also asked to perform a miracle. [[Guru Tegh Bahadur]] averred that he would rather sacrifice his life than give up his faith and his freedom or belief or perform a miracle. Thus, under Aurangzeb's orders, Guru ji and his companions were tortured. The Guru was chained and imprisoned in a cage and was tortured in the cruellest and the most inhuman ways for five long days. In order to terrorise him further into submission, one of his distinguished devotees ([[Bhai Mati Das]]) was sawn alive, another ([[Bhai Dyal Das]]) was boiled in the cauldron and the third ([[Bhai Sati Das]]) was roasted alive before the Guru.
[[Image:Sisganj.jpg|right|200px|Gurdwara Sis Ganj, Chandni Chowk, Delhi]]


"At last during the days when Khusrau passed along this road, this insignificant fellow made up his mind to see him and conveyed preconceived things to him and made on his forehead a fingermark in saffron which in Hindu terminology is called qashqa (teeka) and is considered propitious. When this came to the ears of Our majesty, and i fully knew his heresies, I ordered that he should be brought into my presence and, having handed over his houses, dwelling palaces and children to Murtaza Khan (Shaikh Farid Bukhari) and having confiscated his property, I ordered that he should be put to death with torture." (Dr Ganda Singh, The Martyrdom of Guru Arjan, in the Punjab Past and present, Vol. XII-I, Serial No. 23, April 1978, p.160. The whole article needs to be gone through.)
Finally, the Guru himself was beheaded, under imperial warrant, in broad daylight, in the middle of a public square, the most prominent public place in India, called Chandni Chowk, of Delhi, on the charge that he was a stumbling block preventing the spread of Islam in the Indian subcontinent. '''The exact location of the beheading is marked by [[Gurdwara Sis Ganj]] in Delhi'''. His martyrdom was yet another challenge to the Sikh conscience. It was then realized that there could be no understanding between an insensate power imbrued with blood and a proud people wedded to a life of peace with honour. The sacrifice roused the Hindus from their passive silence and gave them the fortitude to understand the power that comes from self-respect and sacrifice. '''Guru Tegh Bahadur thus earned the affectionate title of "Hind-di-Chadar" or the Shield of India'''.


According to his own statement, Jahangir was "looking for an opportunity to put an end to Guru Arjan's preachings," or to convert him to Islam.


----
Gobind Rai became the tenth and final Guru in human form. Guru Gobind Singh writes in the [[Dasam Granth]] see [http://www.sridasam.org/dasam?Action=Page&p=131 www.sridasam.org page 131]:
from: [http://www.iimahd.ernet.in/~jpsingh/gurunine.htm]


The Enticement


What followed during imprisonment were alternations between a variety of enticements for the Guru and torture and death to members of his retinue. Unable to shake the faith even of his followers, the Guru was asked to perform a miracle the way he had done earlier to save the life of Makhan Shah Lubana. Unwilling, the Guru offered to write a slip to be tied around his neck. This, he said, will not break even with the hardest stroke of a sword. When struck, his head lay separated from the body. Surprised, the perpetrators of his death opened the slip only to find written:
{{Quoter|Bachitar Nanak www.sridasam.org Page 131 |ਤਿਲਕ ਜੰਵੂ ਰਾਖਾ ਪ੝ਰਭ ਤਾ ਕਾ ॥ ਕੀਨੋ ਬਡੋ ਕਲੂ ਮਹਿ ਸਾਕਾ ॥ <br>
He protected the forehead mark and sacred thread (of the Hindus) which marked a great event in the Iron age. <br><br>


Sis diya par Sirar na diya
ਸਾਧਨ ਹੇਤਿ ਇਤੀ ਜਿਨਿ ਕਰੀ ॥ ਸੀਸ੝ ਦੀਆ ਪਰ ਸੀ ਨ ਉਚਰੀ ॥੧੩॥ <br>
For the sake of saints, he laid down his head without even a sign.13. <br><br>


(I gave up my life, but not my secret or faith).
ਧਰਮ ਹੇਤਿ ਸਾਕਾ ਜਿਨਿ ਕੀਆ ॥ ਸੀਸ੝ ਦੀਆ ਪਰ ਸਿਰਰ੝ ਨ ਦੀਆ ॥ <br>
For the sake of Dharma, he sacrificed himself. He laid down his head but not his creed. <br><br>


Thus Guru Tegh Bahadur attained martyrdom and in the process also saved the Hindu faith from being decimated at the hands of a zealot Emperor.
ਨਾਟਕ ਚੇਟਕ ਕੀਝ ਕ੝ਕਾਜਾ ॥ ਪ੝ਰਭ ਲੋਗਨ ਕਹ ਆਵਤ ਲਾਜਾ ॥੧੪॥<br>
The saints of the Lord abhor the performance of miracles and malpractices. 14.}}


The Martyrdom
==The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar from Persian sources==
[[Image:Harimandir sahib panel1.jpg|thumb|200px|A panel from the Harimandir Sahib, depicting Guru Tegh Bahadur counselling a group of Pandits led by Kirpa Ram|right]]


Guru Gobind Singh recorded his father's martyrdom as under:
{{main|Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar from Persian sources}}


Theekar fore dilees sir, Prabh par kiyo payan,
''Anxious to witness a miracle, the Emperor called Guru Tegh Bahadur to the Deccan; the Guru insisted that he was a mere devotee of God; he also explained that neither his name "Tegh Bahadur" nor the epithat ''sachcha padshah'' used for him implied temporal aspiration on his part; inferring that the Guru could not work a miracle, the Emperor ordered his execution.'' (Risala Dar Ahwal-i-Nanak Shah Darvesh)


Tegh Bahadur si kriya, Kari na kinhoo aan.
Other Persians who have written about this historical event.


Tegh Bahadur ke chalat, Bhayo jagat main sog.
* 1 Risala Dar Ahwal-i-Nanak Shah Darvesh
* 2 Khalsanama
* 3 Tawarikh-i-Sikhan-i-Mulk-i-Punjab wa Malwa
* 4 Umdat Ut-Tawarikh
* 5 Zikr-i-Guruan Wa Ibtida-i-Singhan
* 6 Tarikh-i-Panjab
* 7 Ibratnama
* 8 Char Bagh-i-Panjab
* 9 Haqiqat-i-Bina Wa Uruj-i-Firqa-i-Sikhan
* 10 Siyar Al-Mutakhiran


Hai hai hai sab jag bhayo, Jai jai jai sur log.
==Quotes from Internet Sites==


(He burst the bonds of mortal clay
{{main|Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur quotes}}
And went on to the abode of God.
No one ever performed an act as noble
As did Tegh Bahadur.


With the departure of Tegh Bahadur
[[Wikipedia:Aurangzeb|Aurengazeb]] the 'Puritan King' whose life is a '''sharp contrast to that of his predecessors/ancestors''' lost no time after as­cending the throne in [[Delhi]] in 1658 to '''convert whole of [[India]] to [[Islam]]'''. To fulfil this desire of his he had no hesitation in using and wielding sword. The fundamentalist emperor threw to winds the seemingly secular policy of his forefathers re­placing it by one of religious harassment and persecution. He re-imposed the '''"Jazia"''' (a protection tax paid by non-muslims), which often was as much as 60%. While the entire [[India]]n people shuddered at his manner of building an Islamic state, he implemented a well calculated plan according to which he started with liquidating Hindu scholars in India in general and the Kashmiri Pandits in particular. Not surprising he did not spare his own father. According to him '''elimination of [[Hindu]] scholars was a pre-requisite for the spread of [[Islam]] [[India]]'''. (from [http://www.ikashmir.net/exodus/chapter3.html ikashmir.org])
The world was stricken with sorrow.
A wail of horror rent the earth,
A victor's welcome by the dwellers of heaven).                                                                                                                   


(Bichitra Natak)
Others websites that quotes about this historical event include:
* 1 iKashmir.org
* 2 Sword of Truth
* 3 iimahd.ernet.in
* 4 Kashmir Sentinel
* 5 SikhVideos.org
* 6 SriGuruGranthSahib.org
* 7 All About Sikhs
* 8 BBC
* 9 Sikh Review


The Shrines
==See also==
* [[Guru Tegh Bahadur]]
* [[Shaheedi of Guru Tegh Bahadur]]
* [[Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur quotes]]
* [[Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar from Persian sources]]
* [[The Beheading of Guru Tegh Bahadur]]
* [[Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib]]


Although there are several shrines and historical places associated with the memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the two most prominent are in Delhi. These are Gurudwara Sis Ganj, the place of his martyrdom and Gurudwara Rakab Ganj near the Parliament House the place where his body was cremated. Other prominent places include Sri Sis Ganj at Anandpur Sahib, Gurudwara Dookh Niwaran in Patiala, Gurudwara Sri Damdama Sahib in Dhubri, Assam and Gurudwara Sangat Tola in Dhaka.
==External Links==
* [http://www.srigurugranthsahib.org/guru-teg-bahadur/martyrdom.htm Eternal Glory of Guru Tegh Bahadur]
* [https://www.srigurugranthsahib.org/guru-tegh-bahadur/martyrdom-guru-tegh-bahadur-sahib.htm Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib - Martyrdom]
* [http://www.sikhvideos.org/shaheedi-guru-tegh-bahadur-sahib.html video on the Martyrdom]
* [http://www.sgpc.net/gurus/guruteghbahadur.asp www.Sgpc.net]
* [http://www.allaboutsikhs.com/sikh-gurus/sri-guru-tegh-bhadur-sahib-j.html#12 www.Allaboutsikhs.com]


The Symbol of Sacrifice
===Books===


For many it is hard to imagine that a person with martial skills could also become a symbol of supreme sacrifice in defending someone else's faith. Yet, this is what Guru Tegh Bahadur displayed in life and death. About his death Guru Gobind Singh wrote:
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2017/11/who-killed-guru-tegh-bahadur-sirdar.html Who Killed Guru Tegh Bahadur? - Sirdar Kapur Singh]


Tilak janjoo rakha prabh taaka
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.in/2012/09/the-book-guru-tegh-bahadur-prophet-he.html Guru Tegh Bahadur - The Prophet He Died For The Oppressed]


Kino bado kaloo main saka.
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2019/11/atam-baldani-guru-tegh-bahadar-tract-no.html Atam Baldani Guru Tegh Bahadar Tract No. 129]


(To protect your right to wear the caste mark ('Tilak') and the sacred thread,
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2019/11/bemisal-shahidi-tract-no-67.html Bemisal Shahidi Tract No. 67]
He performed the supreme sacrifice in the dark ages of Kalyug)


----
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2019/12/dharam-het-gurdev-pathaye-tract-no-21.html Dharam Het Gurdev Pathaye Tract No. 21]
 
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2020/01/dharam-het-gurdev-pathaye-tract-no-39.html Dharam Het Gurdev Pathaye Tract No. 39 (Hindi version)]
* [https://sikhdigitallibrary.blogspot.com/2020/12/guru-tegh-bahadur-unique-martyr-pritam.html Guru Tegh Bahadur - The Unique Martyr - Pritam Singh Gill]
 
==References==
 
*13. Latif, Sayad Muhammad, History of the Panjab, Jhang-1889, p.259.
*14. Guru Granth Sahib, op. Cit., Slok, M. 9, ho : 16, p.1427.
*15. Trilochan Singh, Dr., Guru Tegh Bahadur: Prophet & Martyr, Delhi-1967, pp.311-24; Dr. Harnam Singh Shan’s paper in Guru Tegh Bahadur Commemorative Volume, Amritsar-1975, pp.89-106.
*16. Encyclopaedia of Religion and Ethics, op. Cit., Vol. VIII, pp. 55, 60.
*17. A dictionary of Islam, op. Cit., pp.327.
*18. Gobind Singh, Guru, Dasam Granth Sahib, ‘Bachittar Natak’; Anandpur Sahib-1696, ch.5, st.13-14.
*19. Gupta, Dr. Hari Ram, History of the Sikhs, Delhi-1973, p. 144.
*20. Dasam Granth Sahib op. Cit., ‘Zafarnamah’, V.22.
*21. Rhys Davids, T.W., Persecution of the Buddhists in India in the J.P.T.S., 1896, p.87.
*22. Geden, Dr. A. S., in Vol. IX of the Encyclopaedia of Religion, op. Cit. P.764.
*23. He took to arms, openly defying the Mughal Government and enjoining active and armed resistence to the violence let loose by the rulers of the day during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan (1592-1658).
*24. Cunnigham, Capt. J.D. A History of the Sikhs, from the Origin of the National to Battles of the Sutlej, London-1849, p.84; Macauliffc, Mr. M.A., The Sikh Religion, Vol.VI, London-1909; Rahdakrishnan, Dr. Sir S., in his Introduction to Selections From The Sacred Writings of the Sikhs, London-1960, p.23.
*25. Guru Granth Sahib, op. Cit., Slok M.9, no.56, p.1429.
*26. Chatterji, Dr. Suniti Kumar in his article published in The Sikh Review, Calcutta – December, 1975, pp. 108-109.
 
{{history}}
{{C:G9}}
{{sacrifice}}

Latest revision as of 14:04, 7 December 2020

Guru Tegh Bahadar with the Kashmiri Pandits

(On 24 November 1675 at Chandni Chowk, Delhi, India)

This was an extremely important event in Sikh history that had a profound impact on the future direction of Sikhism, the religion of the Sikhs.

Guru Tegh Bahadar, the ninth Sikh Guru undertook the supreme sacrifice for the protection of the most fundamental of human rights - the right of a person to freely practice his or her religion without interference or hindrance.

In the modern times we tend to take this freedom for granted – but in 1675, millions of people were denied this basic right. There was forced conversion of religion; many thousands were killed for refusing to change their religion.

Unique sacrifice

To give ones life for a cause is a difficult and highly challenging undertaking. Many in past human history have given their lives for their own personal reason; however, what is astonishing in the case of the ninth Sikh Guru is the fact that the Guru was not protecting the right of his "own people" called the Sikhs to practise their religion but instead the rights of the non-Sikhs, the peace-loving people from Kashmir.

These people from Kashmir were very respected Hindus pundits (scholars) who were being threatened with conversion to Islam, under the threat of death by the "Muslim" Emperor, Aurangzeb. In 1669, the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb departed from the policy of tolerance practised by his predecessors and unleashed instead a policy of religious persecution against non-Muslims. This caused large-scale demoralisation, fear and panic among the people.

The commitment by the Sikh Guru to protect and support the liberty of all the people of a country was unprecedented. This type of supreme sacrifice had never previously been recorded in human history. On May 25, 1675 in answer to an appeal of a large group of revered Kashmiri Pandits, Guru Tegh Bahadur made the momentous decision that has forever changed the level of moral commitment, dedication and sacrifice required by followers of God. The Guru made this critical decision to risk laying down his life if necessary to protect the right of the Hindus to follow their religion freely without interference or duress.

Introduction

"There was sadness on Earth but joy in Heaven"
Guru Gobind Singh

The Guru by this act has set a yardstick by which the Sikh must gauge their devotion to their religion. It is now not acceptable to say that: "I believe in the right of others to practise their faith peacefully" - this does not even get near the level of awareness required for the followers of Sikhism. The Guru has by his example taught the followers to maintain a high level of morality.


It is not even acceptable to say: "I, as a Sikh respect and honour other religions" – even this does not get the Sikh to the required threshold of "wakefulness" ("Surat"). The Sikh mind-set has to get to a position of consciousness where he or she will be able to say: "I as a Sikh am ready to die to protect the right of the people of all faiths". The ability to advance to these reaches of awareness (Surtee or Surat) is a gift obtainable from the Almighty, and was the lesson taught by Guru Tegh Bahadur to the followers of Sikhism. Not only does the Guru's words mention this clearly in Gurbani, but the life of the Gurus also actually reinforces these words of Bani.

SGGS Page 32 Full Shabad
naanak sobhaa surat day-ay parabh aapay gurmukh day vadi-aa-ee. ((4)(15)(48))

O Nanak, by His Grace, He bestows enlightened awareness; God Himself blesses the Gurmukh with glorious greatness.


It should be remembered that the Gurus did not believe in the practises of the Hindu religion and had issued various holy Shabads denouncing various Hindu practises like Sati, Purdah, Idol worship, etc. However, this had no bearing when it came to the decision to protect these Kashmiri Hindus - for the right of a person to freely practise their religion was considered to be predominant over their own personal beliefs and preferences.

Guru Gobind Singh recorded his father's martyrdom with these words:

Theekar fore dilees sir, Prabh par kiyo payan,

Tegh Bahadur si kriya, Kari na kinhoo aan.
Tegh Bahadur ke chalat, Bhayo jagat main sog.
Hai hai hai sab jag bhayo, Jai jai jai sur log.

He burst the bonds of mortal clay
And went on to the abode of God.
No one ever performed an act as noble
As did Tegh Bahadur.

With the departure of Tegh Bahadur
The world was stricken with sorrow.
A wail of horror rent the earth,
A victor's welcome by the dwellers of heaven.

Bichitra Natak

To bring to the attention of all human beings in greater India and to record in world history the barbaric ways of the Mughal Empire, Guru Tegh Bahadar escalated the consciousness of the Sikh psyche to a newer level. It was now not acceptable for a God loving people to protect just their own kind, but it was the duty of all God loving people to protect the rights of all the people of God, no matter what their chosen religion may be. Guru Tegh Bahadar put into practise the profound message of Gurbani that had been existant since Guru Nanak Dev's time:


SGGS Page 1412 Full Shabad
If you desire to play this game of love with Me,

then step onto My Path with your head in your hand.

Emperor Aurangzeb was a barbaric ruler of the Mughal Dynasty who came to power in 1658 and ruled for 49 years until his death in 1707. When he came to power in 1658, he killed or had killed his three brothers and imprisoned his father and forcibly converted Lakhs (hundreds of thousands) of Hindus to Islam. He is commonly considered the last of the "grand" Mughal emperors. His last 25 years were spent in the Deccan fighting a war of attrition against the Marathas which practically bankrupted the Mughal Empire, which never rose again to its onetime splendour. Thought the succeeding Mughal Emperors were even more blood thirsty in their attempts to wipe out the Hindu and Sikh religions, they would soon fall to the perhaps, greater atrocities of the Persians, Afgaanis and the mixed blessings of the British conquerors that completed their demise.

The Kashmiri Pandits were Hindus renowned for their high intellect and education. They had a good relationship with the Sikhs and their Gurus. Guru Nanak Dev met Pandit Brahm Das who was an ancestor of Pandit Kripa Ram in Mattan. Kripa Ram had known the Ninth Guru and also taught Sanskrit classics to the young Gobind Rai. During the reign of Jehangir, Guru Hargobind came to Srinagar and met Kashmiri saintess Mata Bagh Bari, who lived at Rainawari. It is interesting to note that Mata Bagya Bari's spiritual interaction with the sixth Sikh Guru is incredibly well-preserved in the Sikh religious tradition. In Pandit tradition Mata Bagya Bari is a person renowned for her high spiritual merits.

The Turning Point

Guru Tegh Bahadar

In early 1675, the Kashmiri Pandits approached Guru Tegh Bahadar to seek his assistance in their acute hour of need. These Hindus from Kashmir had been given a deadline by Emperor Aurangzeb to convert to Islam or be killed. Pandit Kripa Ram with his large delegation met Guru Tegh Bahadar at Chak Nanki, Kahlur (now known as Anandpur Sahib). He explained their dilemma to the Guru in the open Sangat at the place where today stands Gurdwara Manji Sahib, in Anandpur Sahib.

"The Emperor had given us some time to decide to convert to Islam or to be executed. The time for deciding has expired. Now, we have to convert to Islam or die. What shall we do? Guru ji, we have no one else to turn to. We don't have an army to protect us - We need your help. Please assist us", said Kripa Ram.

Guru ji is said to have gone into deep thought after Pandit Kripa Ram's request. At this point, it is said that Guru ji son, Gobind Rai walks into the Sangat to see Guru ji deep in thought.

"Guru ji, I see the acutely sad faces of the Sangat and you are silent and in deep thought. What is the problem?" asked Gobind Rai to his father. Gobind is about 9 years old at this stage.

Guru ji slowly turn to his son and explain the situation as concisely as possible.

"Baata (Son), this is sangat from Kashmir. They are Hindus who have been friends of Sikhs since the time of Guru Nanak. They have a very serious problem on their hands" said Guru ji.

Gobind Rai replied, "Pita ji, you are the Guru of the entire world ("Jagat Guru"). You will know of a solution to all problems"

"Baata, Emperor Aurangzeb has given them an ultimatum – If they do not become Muslims, he will kill them all", explained Guru ji.

Guru ji continued, "Some well-known Religion person ("Mahapurakh") will have to make a sacrifice to stop this butchery. We have to find a supreme soul who will die so as to awaken the sleeping consciousness of the people of Hind".

"Pita ji, there is an easy answer to this problem. You are the most spiritually aware person in whole of Hind. You can make that sacrifice", answered Gobind Rai.

Guru ji was pleased to hear these words as it confirmed that his son had reached a suitable age to become the next Guru, and that Guru ji's work on Earth had been completed.

Guru ji addressed the Pandits, "Go and tell Aurangzeb that if he can convert Guru Tegh Bahadar to Islam, they will all convert. Otherwise he should leave them alone"

The Pandits were delighted that a solution was found and duly informed Emperor Aurangzeb of the decision. Aurangzeb was delighted that by converting one person, he would without any further delay have the conversion of many 1000's to Islam. Accordingly he summoned his officers to arrest Guru Tegh Bahadar.

Timeline

Date Event
25 May, 1675 Pandit Kirpa Ram, the leader of the Kashmiri Pandits arrives in Anandpur Sahib (then called Chak Nanki, Kahlur) to ask Guru Tegh Bahadur for help in preserving the Hindu faith in Kashmiri.
11 July, 1675 Guru Tegh Bahadur sets off for Delhi
27 July, 1675 Guru Tegh Bahadur taken into custody by Nur Muhammad Khan Miraza of Ropar Police post, on Savan 12,1732 at Malikpur Ranghran, Pargana Ghanaula, and sent to Sirhind.
9 November, 1675 the qazi ordered that Bhai Dayal Das be seated in a cauldron of boiling water
11 November 1675 Bhai Mati Das sawn into two pieces and Bhai Sati Das was wrapped up in cotton wool and set on fire. They both attained martyrdom on this day.
24 November, 1675 Guru Tegh Bahadur attains martyrdom


Guru goes to Delhi

Gurdwara Rakab Sahib, Delhi

In the summer of 1675, the Guru, along with some of his companions were finally brought to Delhi and asked to convert to Islam or else face the penalty of death. Guru ji was also asked to perform a miracle. Guru Tegh Bahadur averred that he would rather sacrifice his life than give up his faith and his freedom or belief or perform a miracle. Thus, under Aurangzeb's orders, Guru ji and his companions were tortured. The Guru was chained and imprisoned in a cage and was tortured in the cruellest and the most inhuman ways for five long days. In order to terrorise him further into submission, one of his distinguished devotees (Bhai Mati Das) was sawn alive, another (Bhai Dyal Das) was boiled in the cauldron and the third (Bhai Sati Das) was roasted alive before the Guru.

Gurdwara Sis Ganj, Chandni Chowk, Delhi

Finally, the Guru himself was beheaded, under imperial warrant, in broad daylight, in the middle of a public square, the most prominent public place in India, called Chandni Chowk, of Delhi, on the charge that he was a stumbling block preventing the spread of Islam in the Indian subcontinent. The exact location of the beheading is marked by Gurdwara Sis Ganj in Delhi. His martyrdom was yet another challenge to the Sikh conscience. It was then realized that there could be no understanding between an insensate power imbrued with blood and a proud people wedded to a life of peace with honour. The sacrifice roused the Hindus from their passive silence and gave them the fortitude to understand the power that comes from self-respect and sacrifice. Guru Tegh Bahadur thus earned the affectionate title of "Hind-di-Chadar" or the Shield of India.


Gobind Rai became the tenth and final Guru in human form. Guru Gobind Singh writes in the Dasam Granth see www.sridasam.org page 131:


Bachitar Nanak www.sridasam.org Page 131
ਤਿਲਕ ਜੰਵੂ ਰਾਖਾ ਪ੝ਰਭ ਤਾ ਕਾ ॥ ਕੀਨੋ ਬਡੋ ਕਲੂ ਮਹਿ ਸਾਕਾ ॥

He protected the forehead mark and sacred thread (of the Hindus) which marked a great event in the Iron age.

ਸਾਧਨ ਹੇਤਿ ਇਤੀ ਜਿਨਿ ਕਰੀ ॥ ਸੀਸ੝ ਦੀਆ ਪਰ ਸੀ ਨ ਉਚਰੀ ॥੧੩॥
For the sake of saints, he laid down his head without even a sign.13.

ਧਰਮ ਹੇਤਿ ਸਾਕਾ ਜਿਨਿ ਕੀਆ ॥ ਸੀਸ੝ ਦੀਆ ਪਰ ਸਿਰਰ੝ ਨ ਦੀਆ ॥
For the sake of Dharma, he sacrificed himself. He laid down his head but not his creed.

ਨਾਟਕ ਚੇਟਕ ਕੀਝ ਕ੝ਕਾਜਾ ॥ ਪ੝ਰਭ ਲੋਗਨ ਕਹ ਆਵਤ ਲਾਜਾ ॥੧੪॥
The saints of the Lord abhor the performance of miracles and malpractices. 14.

The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar from Persian sources

A panel from the Harimandir Sahib, depicting Guru Tegh Bahadur counselling a group of Pandits led by Kirpa Ram
Main article: Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadar from Persian sources

Anxious to witness a miracle, the Emperor called Guru Tegh Bahadur to the Deccan; the Guru insisted that he was a mere devotee of God; he also explained that neither his name "Tegh Bahadur" nor the epithat sachcha padshah used for him implied temporal aspiration on his part; inferring that the Guru could not work a miracle, the Emperor ordered his execution. (Risala Dar Ahwal-i-Nanak Shah Darvesh)

Other Persians who have written about this historical event.

  • 1 Risala Dar Ahwal-i-Nanak Shah Darvesh
  • 2 Khalsanama
  • 3 Tawarikh-i-Sikhan-i-Mulk-i-Punjab wa Malwa
  • 4 Umdat Ut-Tawarikh
  • 5 Zikr-i-Guruan Wa Ibtida-i-Singhan
  • 6 Tarikh-i-Panjab
  • 7 Ibratnama
  • 8 Char Bagh-i-Panjab
  • 9 Haqiqat-i-Bina Wa Uruj-i-Firqa-i-Sikhan
  • 10 Siyar Al-Mutakhiran

Quotes from Internet Sites

Main article: Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur quotes

Aurengazeb the 'Puritan King' whose life is a sharp contrast to that of his predecessors/ancestors lost no time after as­cending the throne in Delhi in 1658 to convert whole of India to Islam. To fulfil this desire of his he had no hesitation in using and wielding sword. The fundamentalist emperor threw to winds the seemingly secular policy of his forefathers re­placing it by one of religious harassment and persecution. He re-imposed the "Jazia" (a protection tax paid by non-muslims), which often was as much as 60%. While the entire Indian people shuddered at his manner of building an Islamic state, he implemented a well calculated plan according to which he started with liquidating Hindu scholars in India in general and the Kashmiri Pandits in particular. Not surprising he did not spare his own father. According to him elimination of Hindu scholars was a pre-requisite for the spread of Islam India. (from ikashmir.org)

Others websites that quotes about this historical event include:

  • 1 iKashmir.org
  • 2 Sword of Truth
  • 3 iimahd.ernet.in
  • 4 Kashmir Sentinel
  • 5 SikhVideos.org
  • 6 SriGuruGranthSahib.org
  • 7 All About Sikhs
  • 8 BBC
  • 9 Sikh Review

See also

External Links

Books

References

  • 13. Latif, Sayad Muhammad, History of the Panjab, Jhang-1889, p.259.
  • 14. Guru Granth Sahib, op. Cit., Slok, M. 9, ho : 16, p.1427.
  • 15. Trilochan Singh, Dr., Guru Tegh Bahadur: Prophet & Martyr, Delhi-1967, pp.311-24; Dr. Harnam Singh Shan’s paper in Guru Tegh Bahadur Commemorative Volume, Amritsar-1975, pp.89-106.
  • 16. Encyclopaedia of Religion and Ethics, op. Cit., Vol. VIII, pp. 55, 60.
  • 17. A dictionary of Islam, op. Cit., pp.327.
  • 18. Gobind Singh, Guru, Dasam Granth Sahib, ‘Bachittar Natak’; Anandpur Sahib-1696, ch.5, st.13-14.
  • 19. Gupta, Dr. Hari Ram, History of the Sikhs, Delhi-1973, p. 144.
  • 20. Dasam Granth Sahib op. Cit., ‘Zafarnamah’, V.22.
  • 21. Rhys Davids, T.W., Persecution of the Buddhists in India in the J.P.T.S., 1896, p.87.
  • 22. Geden, Dr. A. S., in Vol. IX of the Encyclopaedia of Religion, op. Cit. P.764.
  • 23. He took to arms, openly defying the Mughal Government and enjoining active and armed resistence to the violence let loose by the rulers of the day during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan (1592-1658).
  • 24. Cunnigham, Capt. J.D. A History of the Sikhs, from the Origin of the National to Battles of the Sutlej, London-1849, p.84; Macauliffc, Mr. M.A., The Sikh Religion, Vol.VI, London-1909; Rahdakrishnan, Dr. Sir S., in his Introduction to Selections From The Sacred Writings of the Sikhs, London-1960, p.23.
  • 25. Guru Granth Sahib, op. Cit., Slok M.9, no.56, p.1429.
  • 26. Chatterji, Dr. Suniti Kumar in his article published in The Sikh Review, Calcutta – December, 1975, pp. 108-109.
Khanda.jpg  Martyrdom in Sikhism   Khanda.jpg
Guru & family Guru Arjan · Guru Arjan · Guru Tegh Bahadar · Ajit Singh · Jujhar Singh · Zorawar Singh · Fateh Singh · Supreme sacrifice · Bravery & sacrifice · Sons of Guru Gobind Singh
Battles Battle of Aliwal · Battle of Saragarhi · Battle of Anandpur Sahib · Battle of Chamkaur · Battle of Muktsar · Battle of Kartarpur · Battle of Gurusar · Battle of Sirhind · Battle of Sarsa
Gurdwaras Fatehgarh Sahib ·
Retrieved from "https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php?title=Martyrdom_of_Guru_Tegh_Bahadur&oldid=118588"