Gurbani Pothies are revered texts in Sikhism that contain hymns (Bani) from the Sikh Gurus and other saints (Bhagats). These texts serve as a portable and accessible means for Sikhs to read, recite, and reflect on the divine teachings of Gurbani. The word Pothi refers to a book or scripture, and in Sikhism, it carries profound spiritual significance.
Historical Background of Pothies in Sikhism
- Predecessor to the Guru Granth Sahib:
- Guru Nanak Dev Ji and subsequent Gurus composed hymns that were written down by their disciples.
- Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru, compiled these into the Adi Granth in 1604, which later became the Guru Granth Sahib under Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
- Pothi Sahib by Guru Arjan Dev Ji:
- Guru Arjan prepared a Pothi Sahib (a smaller scripture), which laid the foundation for compiling the Adi Granth.
- These early Pothies were hand-copied and preserved with great care.
Purpose of Gurbani Pothies
- Daily Recitation (Nitnem):
- Sikhs use Pothies containing specific Banis (e.g., Japji Sahib, Sukhmani Sahib) for daily prayers and meditation.
- Learning and Teaching:
- Helps individuals, especially children, learn Gurmukhi and memorize Gurbani.
- Portability:
- Unlike the Guru Granth Sahib, which is large and must be treated with the utmost reverence, Pothies are smaller and can be carried for personal use.
- Preservation of Teachings:
- Ensures accessibility to Gurbani for spiritual guidance and moral living.
Contents of Gurbani Pothies
- Nitnem Banis:
- Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Tav-Prasad Savaiye, Rehras Sahib, Kirtan Sohila.
- Special Collections:
- Sukhmani Sahib: For meditation and peace of mind.
- Asa Ki Vaar: Sung during early morning congregations.
- Shabads (Hymns):
- Popular Shabads for Kirtan and reflection.
- Historical Banis:
- Includes Banis from the Dasam Granth, such as Chaupai Sahib.
Handling and Respect for Gurbani Pothies
- Respectful Placement:
- Must be placed on a clean, high surface, often with a small cloth (Rumala Sahib) covering it.
- Cleanliness:
- Readers are expected to wash their hands and maintain a respectful posture while reading.
- Reading with Reverence:
- Treated as sacred, similar to the Guru Granth Sahib, but without the same level of ceremonial protocol.
Importance in Sikh Spirituality
- Connection to Gurbani:
- Helps Sikhs build a personal and direct connection with divine teachings.
- Accessibility:
- Enables individuals to engage with Gurbani outside of the Gurudwara.
- Spiritual Discipline:
- Reciting from Pothies fosters mindfulness, discipline, and inner peace.
Modern Use and Digital Pothies
In addition to printed versions, digital Gurbani Pothies are now widely available through apps and websites, allowing Sikhs worldwide to access Gurbani conveniently while maintaining the sanctity of the teachings.