The Saroop, a revered physical embodiment of the Sikh scriptures, is central to the religious life and practices of Sikhs around the world. Known in Punjabi as the Bir, this sacred text is not just a collection of hymns and writings but is treated with the utmost respect as the living Guru by followers of Sikhism. It encompasses the divine teachings, also known as Gurbani, imparted by the ten Gurus who shaped the faith. The handling of the Saroop, particularly its installation and transportation, is subject to a stringent set of guidelines that ensure its sanctity is maintained at all times.
Understanding the Saroop
The term ‘Saroop’ refers to the physical manifestation of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism. This holy book is composed of various hymns, prayers, and teachings compiled by the Sikh Gurus. The Saroop is treated with the same reverence as a living Guru in Sikh tradition. This is because it contains the Gurbani, which is the collective wisdom and teachings of all ten Sikh Gurus. The Gurbani is considered the spiritual guide that leads Sikhs on the path of righteousness and connects them with the divine.
Rehat Maryada: The Sikh Code of Conduct
The Rehat Maryada is the official code of conduct that prescribes the proper way to treat the Guru Granth Sahib. It is a set of guidelines that dictate the behavior and practices of Sikhs, particularly concerning the treatment of their holy text. This code ensures that the Saroop is handled with the highest degree of respect and care. Adherence to the Rehat Maryada is crucial for maintaining the sanctity of the Sikh scriptures and the ceremonies associated with them.
Installation and Care of the Saroop
The installation of the Saroop in a Gurdwara, which is a Sikh place of worship, is a ceremonial process that involves specific rituals. The Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a raised platform called the Takht or the Palki, signifying its elevated status. The area where the Saroop rests is considered the most sacred space within a Gurdwara. Devotees show their reverence by bowing before the Saroop and often offering donations or performing voluntary service, known as Sewa, in its presence.
Transportation of the Guru Granth Sahib
When the Guru Granth Sahib needs to be transported from one location to another, the process is carried out with great solemnity. According to the Rehat Maryada, five baptized Sikhs, known as the Panj Pyare, must accompany the Saroop during its transfer. This is a symbolic representation of the original Panj Pyare, the five beloved ones who were the first to be initiated into the Khalsa, the collective body of initiated Sikhs.
The person carrying the Saroop must do so with the scripture placed on their head, an act that displays deep respect and humility. Walking barefoot signifies the purity and solemnity of the task at hand. The procession is usually conducted with devotional singing and may include a ceremonial canopy held over the Saroop to honor its significance.
Respectful Handling and Etiquette
Sikhs follow a strict protocol when handling the Saroop of the Guru Granth Sahib. Before touching the scripture, individuals must wash their hands and cover their heads as a sign of respect. The Saroop is always to be placed on clean cloth, and readers must use a Chaur Sahib, a type of ceremonial whisk, to fan over the pages as a gesture of veneration. When not in use, the Saroop is covered with a special cloth known as the Rumala to protect it from dust and to show honor.
The respect shown to the Saroop extends to its reading and recitation as well. Sikhs listen to the Gurbani with rapt attention, standing up whenever the Saroop is opened or closed. The practice of paying homage to the Guru Granth Sahib is not limited to the confines of a Gurdwara; Sikhs carry this reverence into their daily lives, embodying the teachings of their Gurus through their actions and thoughts.
