Saturday, December 19, 2009

14/12/2009 The Five Takhts


'Takht' which literally means a throne or seat of authority is a result of historical growth of Sikhism. There are five Takhats. The first and the most important one was established by Guru Hargobind in 1609. It is called 'Akal Takht' and is situated just opposite the gate of Harmandar Sahib - The Golden Temple, Amritsar. The Guru established it, because he thought that secular political matters should not be considered in the Golden Temple, which is meant purely for worship of God. Here the Guru held his court and decided matters of military strategy and political policy. Later on, the Sikh commonwealth took decisions here on matters of peace and war and settled disputes between the various Sikh groups.

The Sarangi singers sung the ballads of the Sikh Gurus and warriors at this place and robes of honour were awarded to persons who rendered distinguished services of the community of men in general. The second seat of authority is called "Takhat Sri Patna Sahib". The Five Takhts are the five gurudwaras and these have a very special significance for the Sikh community. Takht means a throne. They are considered the seats of Sikh religious authority. The important decisions concerning the religious and social life of the Sikh community have been taken here.

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