Akal Takht Sahib Amritsar

Sikhism

Akal Takht (ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖ਼ਤ) means the Throne of the Immortal and is the highest political institution of the Sikhs. "Akal" means "The Timeless One" - another term for God. "Takhat" means "throne" in Persian. The Akal Takhat is an impressive building that sits directly in front of the causeway leading to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The Akal Takht was founded by Guru Hargobind in 1606 and was established as the place from which the spiritual and temporal concerns of the Sikh community could be acted upon.

The Jathedar (Chief) of the Akal Takhat is the highest spokesperson of the Sikh Panth and is meant to be a spiritual leader without control or influence from any outside, politically motivated sources.

It is the most supreme of all the Takhats. There are four other takhats established by the panth (community) during the last century:

5 Takhts of Sikhism

5 Takhts of Sikhism

Akal Takht

Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur)

Patna Sahib

Hazur Sahib

Damdama Sahib

Originally known as Akal Bunga, the building directly opposite the Harmandir Sahib was founded by sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, as a symbol of political sovereignty and where spiritual and temporal concerns of the Sikh people could be addressed. Along with Baba Buddha and Bhai Gurdas, the sixth Sikh Guru built a 9 foot high concrete slab. When Guru Hargobind revealed the platform in 1606, he put on two swords: one indicated his spiritual authority (piri) and the other, his temporal authority (miri).

The Akal Takht, also spelled as "Akal Takhat," is one of the most significant and sacred institutions in Sikhism. It holds a central place in Sikh religious and political life and serves as the temporal seat of Sikh authority.

Name and Meaning

The term "Akal Takht" is derived from two words: "Akal" means "timeless" or "eternal," and "Takhat" means "throne" or "seat." Therefore, Akal Takht can be translated as the "Throne of the Timeless One" or the "Eternal Throne."

Location

The Akal Takht is situated in the Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar (The Golden Temple Amritsar) complex in Amritsar. It is positioned opposite the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) on the eastern side of the Sarovar (sacred pool).

Historical Significance

The Akal Takht was built by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, in June 15, 1606. He constructed it as a symbol of Sikh political and spiritual sovereignty in response to the oppression faced by Sikhs under the Mughal Empire.

Function

The Akal Takht serves several important functions:

• Spiritual Guidance: It is a place where Sikh religious leaders and scholars provide spiritual and ethical guidance to the Sikh community.
• Political Decision-Making: Historically, it was used as a platform for making political decisions and addressing important issues affecting the Sikh community.
• Dispensation of Justice: The Akal Takht has the authority to deliver judgments and punish individuals found guilty of violating Sikh principles or committing grave offenses.
• Proclamations: It is the place where important proclamations, called "Hukamnamas," are issued by the Jathedar (the head priest) to guide the Sikh community.

Structure

The Akal Takht is an imposing structure made of white marble and adorned with beautiful artwork. It has a dome and a raised platform where the Jathedar, the highest religious authority in Sikhism, sits to preside over religious and community matters.

Importance in Sikhism

The Akal Takht represents the concept of Miri-Piri in Sikhism, which combines the spiritual (Piri) and temporal (Miri) aspects of Sikh life. It symbolizes the balance between spiritual values and worldly responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of righteous living.

Contemporary Significance

The Akal Takht has played a crucial role in various historical events and movements within Sikhism. It continues to be a significant institution where Sikh leaders address issues facing the Sikh community and make decisions that affect the broader Sikh diaspora.

Notable Events

Throughout its history, the Akal Takht has witnessed significant events, including the issuance of edicts during times of crisis.

Jathedar

The Akal Takht is led by the Jathedar, who is responsible for maintaining its sanctity, providing spiritual leadership, and issuing religious decrees. The Jathedar is highly respected within the Sikh community and holds considerable authority.

In summary, the Akal Takht is a sacred and historically significant institution in Sikhism. It serves as the temporal and spiritual authority for Sikhs and embodies the principles of Sikh sovereignty, justice, and spirituality. The Akal Takht continues to play a central role in the Sikh community's religious and political life.