Guru Angad Dev facts for kids

Guru Angad Dev (Punjabi: ਗੁਰੂ ਅੰਗਦ ਦੇਵ, 1504 – September 7, 1539) was a very important leader in the Sikh religion. He was the second of the ten gurus, or spiritual teachers, who helped create and guide Sikhism. He became a Guru because of his great devotion and loyalty to the first Guru, Guru Nanak. Guru Angad Dev is also famous for creating the modern form of the Gurmukhi script, which is used to write the Punjabi language.

Who Was Guru Angad Dev?

Guru Angad Dev was born in a village called Harike in Punjab, India. His original name was Lehna. From a young age, he was very spiritual and dedicated to his beliefs. He showed great respect and love for God.

Early Life and Meeting Guru Nanak

Before he became a Sikh Guru, Lehna was a worshipper of the Hindu goddess Durga. One day, he heard a follower of Guru Nanak singing a hymn. Lehna was so touched by the words that he decided to visit Guru Nanak.

When Lehna met Guru Nanak, he was deeply impressed by Guru Nanak's wisdom and teachings. He decided to stay and become a disciple. Lehna served Guru Nanak with incredible dedication and humility. He always put Guru Nanak's wishes first, showing true devotion.

Becoming a Guru

Guru Nanak saw Lehna's deep faith, obedience, and understanding of his teachings. Even though Guru Nanak had sons, he chose Lehna to be his successor. This showed that the role of Guru was earned through spiritual merit, not through family ties.

In 1539, Guru Nanak passed on his spiritual light to Lehna, renaming him Angad. The name "Angad" means "a part of the body" or "one's own limb," showing that Lehna was like a part of Guru Nanak himself. Guru Angad Dev then became the second Sikh Guru.

Creating the Gurmukhi Script

One of Guru Angad Dev's most important contributions was developing the Gurmukhi script. This script is used to write the Punjabi language. Before Gurmukhi, there were different ways to write Punjabi, which could be confusing.

Guru Angad Dev made the Gurmukhi script simpler and easier to learn. This was very important because it helped spread Guru Nanak's teachings. People could now read the holy hymns and scriptures more easily. The word "Gurmukhi" means "from the mouth of the Guru," showing its connection to the Sikh Gurus and their sacred texts.

His Teachings and Legacy

Guru Angad Dev continued the work of Guru Nanak. He focused on spreading the message of equality, selfless service, and devotion to God. He encouraged people to live honest lives and to share with others.

He also helped strengthen the 'Langar' system, which is a free community kitchen. In Langar, everyone, no matter their background, sits together and eats a simple meal. This promotes equality and togetherness. Guru Angad Dev taught that serving others is a way of serving God. He passed away in 1552, leaving behind a strong community and a clear path for future generations of Sikhs.

Images for kids

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  Gurmukhi script (partial)

See also

In Spanish: Gurú Angad Dev Ji para niños