17Th Century Sikhs

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Introduction to 17th Century Sikhs

• The 17th century was a crucial period in Sikh history, marked by the rise of
the Khalsa and the militarization of the Sikh community.

• Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century, but it was during
the 17th century that Sikhism began to take on a distinct identity.

• The 17th century saw the martyrdom of several Sikh Gurus and the
development of a strong sense of community among Sikhs.
Guru Hargobind Ji and the Militarization of Sikhs

• Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, played a pivotal role in
militarizing the Sikh community.

• He established the Akal Takht, the temporal seat of Sikh authority, and
initiated the concept of Miri-Piri, the integration of spiritual and temporal
power.

• Guru Hargobind Ji also organized the Sikh community into a fighting force
known as the Akali Nihangs.
Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur

• Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was martyred by the Mughal
Emperor Aurangzeb in 1675 for defending the rights of Hindus to practice
their faith freely.

• His martyrdom inspired his son, Guru Gobind Singh, to take up arms
against religious persecution.

• Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifice is commemorated annually on Guru Tegh

Bahadur Martyrdom Day.
Formation of the Khalsa

• Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, formalized the Khalsa in 1699, a
collective body of initiated Sikhs committed to defending righteousness
and justice.

• The Khalsa was established through the Amrit Sanchar ceremony, in which
Sikhs were baptized and given the five Ks as symbols of their identity.

• The Khalsa played a crucial role in defending Sikhism against external

threats and preserving its principles.
Banda Singh Bahadur and the Sikh Revolt

• Banda Singh Bahadur was a prominent Sikh military commander who led
a revolt against the Mughal Empire in the early 18th century.

• He established Sikh rule in Punjab for a brief period and enacted social
reforms to uplift the oppressed classes.

• Banda Singh Bahadur's resistance inspired future generations of Sikhs to

continue the struggle for justice and freedom.
Sikh Architecture in the 17th Century

• The 17th century saw the construction of several iconic Sikh gurdwaras,
including the Golden Temple in Amritsar and Anandpur Sahib.

• Sikh architecture during this period reflected a unique blend of Islamic and
Hindu influences, characterized by domes, arches, and intricate frescoes.

• These gurdwaras served as centers of spiritual and community life for

Sikhs and continue to be revered to this day.
Sikh Art and Literature

• The 17th century was a golden age for Sikh art and literature, with the
composition of hymns and poetry by Sikh Gurus and Bhagats.

• The Adi Granth, the sacred scripture of Sikhism, was compiled by Guru
Arjan Dev in the early 17th century.

• Sikh art during this period included miniature paintings, calligraphy, and
frescoes depicting Sikh history and mythology.
Impact of 17th Century Sikhs on Society

• The 17th century Sikhs played a pivotal role in challenging social

inequalities and advocating for religious freedom.

• Sikh Gurus and leaders stood against oppression and injustice, inspiring
followers to uphold principles of equality and justice.

• The legacy of 17th century Sikhs continues to resonate in modern Sikh

activism and advocacy for human rights.
Legacy of 17th Century Sikhs

• The 17th century Sikhs laid the foundation for a distinct Sikh identity
based on principles of equality, justice, and selfless service.

• Their sacrifices and struggles against tyranny and oppression continue to

inspire Sikhs worldwide to stand up for righteousness and truth.

• The legacy of 17th century Sikhs serves as a guiding light for future
generations to uphold the values of Sikhism and work towards a more just
and equitable society.
Conclusion

• The 17th century was a transformative period in Sikh history, marked by

the emergence of a distinct Sikh identity and the establishment of the
Khalsa.

• Sikh Gurus and leaders during this period laid the foundation for Sikh
values of equality, justice, and selfless service.

• The legacy of 17th century Sikhs continues to inspire Sikhs worldwide to

uphold the principles of Sikhism and work towards a more just and
compassionate society.