What Is the Role of the Guru Granth Sahib?
Learn the role of the Guru Granth Sahib in Sikhism: why Sikhs regard it as the eternal Guru, how it guides daily life and how it is treated in a gurdwara.
The Guru Granth Sahib is the Sikh holy scripture and the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. Its role is to guide Sikhs in what to believe, how to live and how to worship. Sikhs regard it as a living source of spiritual guidance, not as God or an object to be worshipped.
Why is it called the Guru?
A Guru is a spiritual teacher. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth human Guru, declared that after him the Guru Granth Sahib would be the Guru for Sikhs. It contains hymns and teachings from Sikh Gurus and other religious figures. Through these words, Sikhs learn about belief in one God, equality, honest living and seva (selfless service).
How does it guide Sikhs?
Sikhs listen to hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib during worship in the gurdwara (Sikh place of worship). A passage may be read as a hukam, a teaching for reflection and guidance. Sikhs can also read and study the scripture to help them apply its teachings to everyday decisions.
For example, a Sikh reflecting on a teaching about equality might challenge discrimination or help someone in need. A teaching about honest work might shape how they behave at school or at work. These are examples of putting guidance into practice, rather than treating scripture as a list of fixed instructions.
The Guru Granth Sahib is treated with great respect. In a gurdwara, it is placed on a raised platform beneath a canopy. Sikhs cover their heads, remove their shoes and bow before it to show respect for its teachings. This does not mean they worship the book: worship is directed to God.
Exam mistake to avoid: do not describe the Guru Granth Sahib as simply a book of Sikh rules. Explain both parts of its role: it is the eternal Guru, and its teachings guide Sikh belief, worship and daily life.
