Question

Write a note on the contributions of the third Sikh Guru to Sikhism.

Answer 1

Instructions:
The answer to this question can be broken into 5 main parts.

1. Baoli of Goindwal.
2. Expansion of the Langar system.
3. Composition of Bani.
4. Establishment of Manji system.
5. Cordial relations with Akbar.

Solution: Guru Amar Das became the third Sikh Guru. He led the Sikh community for 22 years.

• The city of Goindwal was established by Guru Angad Dev, under the supervision of Guru Amar Das Ji. After becoming the Guru, Guru Amar Das Ji got a baoli constructed at Goindwal. It is a large well consisting of 84 steps, and each step has its own importance. Goindwal became an important pilgrimage site.
• Guru Amar Das Ji also insisted that one should first participate in the Langar before meeting him. He inspired the Sangat to contribute to Langar, which increased the unity among Sikhs and also gave a striking blow to caste discrimination.
• Guru Amar Das Ji obtained the Pothi of Bani from Guru Angad Dev Ji. He also composed 907 hymns in 17 ragas.
• Guru Amar Das Ji introduced the Manji System to spread Sikhism. He established 22 Manjis. The head of the Manji was known as Manjidar. These Manjidars used to act as a link between the Guru and the Sangat. The Sangat used to send their offerings to Guru through these Manjidars.
• The Mughal Emperor Akbar maintained friendly ties with Guru Amar Das. Akbar was greatly impressed by Guru Amar Das Ji. He also met Guru after partaking in the Langar. Akbar respected Guru Amar Das Ji very much that he even waived off the land revenue of peasants after a drought upon Guru’s request.