The First Parkash of Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a historic milestone in Sikh history, showing the formal acceptance and devotion for the Adi Granth, the predecessor to what is today known as the Guru Granth Sahib. This historic event occurred on September 1, 1604, at the Darbaar Sahib in Amritsar, and marked the completion of Guru Arjan Sahib Ji’s diligent work in compiling and organizing the sacred hymns that comprise the core of Sikhism’s holy scripture.

This day is really important. It was more than just putting a text in a prominent place; it was a profound expression of the eternal Guru’s presence and deep reverence for the spiritual wisdom contained in the Adi Granth. The event began with Baba Budha Ji, a revered and respected person, holding the Adi Granth Sahib Ji on his head. This act represented the highest level of reverence and dedication, indicating that the Scripture was to be honored above everything else. The act of carrying the sacred text in this manner was a deep expression of reverence and appreciation of the scripture’s divine status.

Guru Arjan Sahib Ji, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs, had an important role in this historic event. He practiced chaur seva, which involves delicately fanning the sacred text with a fly whisk. This ritual gesture was more than just ceremonial; it signified the Guru’s reverence for the Adi Granth, which serves as the Sikh community’s primary spiritual guide. The entire sangat, or congregation, participated in the march, with tremendous reverence and dedication to the holy scripture. Their involvement in this hallowed ceremony demonstrated the Sikh community’s collective regard for the scripture as well as its oneness.

When the Adi Granth Sahib Ji arrived at Darbaar Sahib, it was placed on a specially built platform. The act of placing the scripture on an elevated platform was a mark of regard, indicating that the Adi Granth was more than just a book, but the immortal Guru who deserved the highest respect. Guru Arjan Sahib Ji and the sangat chose to sit on the ground as a sign of humility and respect for the scriptures. This performance highlighted the idea that, while physical forms and positions may change, the heavenly wisdom contained in the Adi Granth is superior and unchanging.

Baba Budha Ji, the first Head Granthi, accepted the vital duty of safeguarding and reciting the Adi Granth Sahib. His responsibility was to ensure that the sacred text was kept with extreme care and that its teachings were disseminated throughout the Sikh community. The appointment of Baba Budha Ji highlighted the importance of his knowledge and piety, since he was tasked with helping others in comprehending and living according to the Adi Granth’s teachings.

One of the most moving moments of the First Parkash was the reciting of the Hukamnama Sahib. Baba Budha Ji read the first Hukamnama, which stated: “Santa ke karaj aap khloya har kam kravan aya ram,” which translates as “The Lord Himself has come to resolve the affairs of the saints; He has come to fulfill their needs.” This pronouncement was more than just an announcement; it was a divine confirmation of the Adi Granth’s status as the Sikh community’s guiding light. It reinforced the concept that the Lord had accepted the responsibility of guiding and meeting His followers’ spiritual needs through the Adi Granth.

The First Parkash was more than just the start of a new chapter for the Sikh community; it was a profound reaffirmation of the principles and teachings that the Adi Granth embodied. It officially recognized the Adi Granth as the immortal Guru, the embodiment of heavenly wisdom who would guide the Sikh community through life’s hardships and tribulations. This event cemented the Adi Granth’s position as the primary spiritual authority in Sikhism, guiding followers toward a life of virtue, unity, and devotion.

To summarize, the First Parkash of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji was a historic and spiritually significant event that signaled the formal establishment of the Adi Granth as the eternal Guru. It was a day of tremendous reverence and spiritual significance, demonstrating the Sikh community’s dedication to honoring and implementing the divine knowledge inherent in scripture. This occasion laid the groundwork for the Guru Granth Sahib’s long-term position in Sikhism, establishing it as the primary spiritual guide and a beacon of heavenly light for future generations.