Introduction to Guru Angad Dev Ji
Guru Angad Dev Ji was the second Guru of Sikhism, following Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. He played a vital role in shaping Sikhism into a structured religious tradition by preserving Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings and strengthening Sikh identity. Born as Bhai Lehna Ji, Guru Angad Dev Ji is remembered for his humility, discipline, service, and dedication to education, language, and physical fitness. His life set a powerful example of selfless devotion and moral leadership.
Early Life of Guru Angad Dev Ji
Guru Angad Dev Ji was born on 31 March 1504 in the village of Matte Di Sarai, near present-day Muktsar in Punjab. His birth name was Lehna, and he was born into a Hindu Khatri family. From a young age, Bhai Lehna Ji showed deep religious curiosity and discipline. He was devoted to the worship of Goddess Durga and even led pilgrimages to religious sites.http://www.sgpc.com
Despite his devotion, Bhai Lehna Ji felt an inner spiritual restlessness. This search for truth would eventually lead him to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, changing the course of his life and Sikh history forever.http://www.truthfrontier.com
Meeting Guru Nanak Dev Ji
The turning point in Bhai Lehna Ji’s life came when he heard the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Deeply moved by their spiritual depth and simplicity, he decided to meet the Guru. Upon meeting Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Bhai Lehna Ji experienced a profound transformation. He recognized Guru Nanak Dev Ji as his spiritual master and surrendered himself completely to his teachings.
Bhai Lehna Ji displayed extraordinary devotion, humility, and obedience. One famous incident describes how he obeyed Guru Nanak Dev Ji without hesitation, even when others doubted the task given. This unwavering faith convinced Guru Nanak Dev Ji that Bhai Lehna Ji was the most suitable successor.
Becoming Guru Angad Dev Ji
Before leaving his physical body, Guru Nanak Dev Ji appointed Bhai Lehna Ji as his successor in 1539. He renamed him Guru Angad, meaning “my own limb,” symbolizing complete spiritual unity. This decision disappointed some followers, including Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s sons, but it reinforced the Sikh principle that spiritual merit matters more than lineage.
Guru Angad Dev Ji became the second Sikh Guru at the age of 35 and continued Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s mission with dedication and discipline.
Development of the Gurmukhi Script
One of Guru Angad Dev Ji’s greatest contributions was the development and promotion of the Gurmukhi script. Although the script existed in a basic form earlier, Guru Angad Dev Ji refined, standardized, and popularized it. He encouraged Sikhs to learn Gurmukhi so that Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s hymns could be accurately written, preserved, and passed on.
The use of Gurmukhi strengthened Sikh identity and ensured that sacred teachings were accessible to common people, not limited to scholars or elites.
Preservation of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Teachings
Guru Angad Dev Ji carefully collected and compiled the hymns of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This preservation later became the foundation for the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Without Guru Angad Dev Ji’s efforts, many of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings might have been lost or altered over time.
By emphasizing authenticity and accuracy, Guru Angad Dev Ji safeguarded the spiritual legacy of Sikhism.
Promotion of Education and Learning
Guru Angad Dev Ji believed that education was essential for spiritual and social growth. He established schools where children were taught Gurmukhi and basic moral values. Education was encouraged for both boys and girls, which was progressive for that era.
Through learning, Guru Angad Dev Ji aimed to create informed, ethical, and disciplined individuals who could contribute positively to society.
Emphasis on Physical Fitness and Sports
Guru Angad Dev Ji strongly promoted physical fitness along with spiritual discipline. He believed that a healthy body supports a healthy mind. Wrestling and other physical activities were encouraged, especially among the youth.
This focus on physical strength later influenced Sikh traditions that emphasize courage, resilience, and readiness to defend righteousness.
Seva and Langar Tradition
Guru Angad Dev Ji strengthened the tradition of Seva (selfless service) and Langar (community kitchen) started by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Everyone, regardless of caste, religion, or status, was required to sit together and eat the same food.
This practice challenged social inequalities and promoted equality, humility, and unity. Guru Angad Dev Ji himself participated in seva, setting an example for all followers.
Role of Mata Khivi Ji
Mata Khivi Ji, the wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, played an important role in managing the Langar. She ensured that nutritious and lovingly prepared food was served to all. Her contribution highlights the important role of women in Sikhism and reinforces the Sikh belief in gender equality.
Appointment of Guru Amar Das Ji
Before leaving his physical body, Guru Angad Dev Ji selected Guru Amar Das Ji as the third Guru of Sikhism. Like Guru Nanak Dev Ji, he chose spiritual merit over family ties, reinforcing Sikh values of humility, service, and devotion.
This smooth transfer of leadership ensured continuity and stability within the Sikh community.
Jyoti Jot and Legacy
Guru Angad Dev Ji left his physical body on 29 March 1552 in Khadur Sahib. Though his Guruship lasted only thirteen years, his contributions were foundational. He transformed Sikhism from a spiritual movement into an organized community with a distinct language, script, and identity.
His legacy lives on through the Gurmukhi script, preserved hymns, emphasis on education, physical discipline, and the enduring values of humility and service.
Conclusion
Guru Angad Dev Ji was not only a spiritual successor but also a builder of Sikh civilization. Through his dedication, discipline, and humility, he strengthened the foundations laid by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. His life teaches that true leadership comes from service, obedience to truth, and commitment to collective upliftment.
As the second Guru of Sikhism, Guru Angad Dev Ji remains a timeless symbol of faith, perseverance, and selfless devotion, inspiring millions across generations.
