Birth and Early Life:
- Born on April 15, 1563, in Goindwal, Punjab, India, to Guru Ram Das Ji and Mata Bhani Ji.
- Named Arjan Dev after the divine letter 'A' in the Gurumukhi alphabet.
Recognition as the Sikh Guru:
- Following the demise of Guru Ram Das Ji in 1581, Arjan Dev Ji became the fifth Sikh Guru at the age of 18.
Compilation of the Adi Granth:
- Undertook the monumental task of compiling and editing the Sikh holy scripture, the Adi Granth.
- Collected and selected hymns from previous Gurus, saints, and mystics of various faiths.
- The Adi Granth became the central religious text for Sikhs and is revered as Guru Granth Sahib.
Establishment of Amritsar:
- Acquired land in 1589 and founded the city of Amritsar, which became the spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism.
- Built the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the holiest shrine for Sikhs worldwide.
Propagation of Sikhism:
- Traveled extensively throughout Punjab, establishing Sikh centers (gurdwaras) and spreading the message of Sikhism.
- Sent missionaries to distant lands, including the Himalayas and Afghanistan, to disseminate Sikh teachings.
Establishment of the Khalsa Panth:
- In 1699, initiated the Khalsa Panth, a disciplined order of Sikh warriors.
- Instituted the Five Ks (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan) as symbols of Sikh identity and faith.
Challenges and Opposition:
- Faced opposition from Mughal authorities, including Emperor Akbar and Jahangir.
- Some Sikh factions resented his reforms and the concept of the Khalsa Panth.
- Underwent persecution and imprisonment during the reign of Jahangir.
Martyrdom:
- In 1606, Emperor Jahangir ordered Guru Arjan Dev Ji's execution for alleged treason and blasphemy.
- Martyred at Lahore on May 30, 1606, becoming a symbol of Sikh resilience and sacrifice.