Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji
ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਪਿਆਰੇ ਜ਼ਹੂਰਿ ਖਾਨ ਮੁਜ਼ਰੇ ਖਾਲਸੇ।
Beloved Guru Hargobind, the Khalsa's sovereign, appeared in the court of Zahir Khan.
ਛਤਰੀ ਚਲਾਵੈ ਮਸਤਕਿ ਅੰਬਰੁ ਚੂੰ ਕਰੈ ਵਿਚਾਰਾ।
He carried the royal umbrella, and the sky bowed in reverence.
(Bhai Gurdaas Ji Vaaran)
The sixth manifestation of Sri Akaal Purakh is Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Guru Ji was born on 19 June 1595 in Wadali Guru, Amritsar to Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Mata Ganga Ji.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji carried forward the spiritual teachings of the previous Gurus and also took up the responsibility of protecting the Sikh community against tyranny and oppression. He introduced the concept of the Miri-Piri, where spiritual and temporal power were combined. Guru Ji established the Akal Takht, the temporal seat of authority, alongside Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.
During his time, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji faced conflicts with the Mughal Empire and participated in armed resistance. He led the Sikhs in defending their rights and fighting for justice. Guru Ji inspired the formation of the Khalsa, the community of baptized Sikhs who were committed to upholding righteousness and defending the oppressed.
The mention of Zahir Khan in the verse refers to a historical event where Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji appeared in the court of Zahir Khan, a regional Mughal governor. This incident symbolizes the Guru's assertion of sovereignty and the power of righteousness over oppressive forces.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji paved the way for a new chapter in Sikh history, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between spirituality and worldly responsibilities. His teachings continue to inspire and guide Sikhs to this day.