The transition and transformation of the Sikh faith from Guru Nanak's "Tere Bhane Sarbat Da Bhala" to Guru Gobind Singh's "Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Ehe" marked a significant shift in the ideology and practice of Sikhism. While Guru Nanak emphasized the principles of Oneness of God, universal brotherhood, love, compassion, and peace, Guru Gobind Singh envisioned Sikhs as saint-soldiers who would stand up against injustice.
This transformation can be traced back to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru, who faced persecution from Emperor Jehangir due to his teachings. The execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru, during the oppressive reign of Aurangzeb further solidified the need for Sikhs to defend their faith and protect others from persecution.
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, understood that to carry forward the legacy of Guru Nanak, he needed to confront the Mughal Empire. He created the Khalsa in 1699, instilling his followers with martial fervor to fight against tyranny. Guru Gobind Singh justified this transition by stating that when all other means fail, it is righteous to draw the sword.
In his letter, Zafarnamah, addressed to Emperor Aurangzeb, Guru Gobind Singh expressed the need for Sikhs to take up arms when necessary. He also composed the powerful hymn "Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Ehe" in which he sought strength, fearlessness, and victory in battle from the divine.
Today, Sikhs sing "Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Ehe" with great faith and pride in Gurudwaras and army units, symbolizing their commitment to righteousness, courage, and fighting against injustice.
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