Martyrdom and Sikhism

A martyr is defined as someone who chooses death for being resolute with his idea. The one who didn’t bow to the tyrannous. The courage in a martyr is deep-rooted, more moral than physical. This comes out of spiritual conviction rather than love of worldly gain.

Martyrdom is an important concept in Sikhism which is always seen with great pride. Laying down one’s life for a particular principle or faith is one of the most sacred traditions in Sikhism. This concept of martyrdom was laid down by the first Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Nanak Dev.

We often came across stories where the legends laid down their lives for their values, religion or the motherland. Even Alexander the Great was made to return back to his country by the king of Punjab, Porus at that time. Even after that the Sikhs fought back repeated invasions from Afghan and other Muslim rulers.

 

Now people remember them as heroes as they fought for the truth. The truth that world accepted, the truth before which everyone bows down, truth or the synonym of God. They were ready to pay any cost to save the dignity of their pride, their religion Sikhism. The highest form of sacrifice is martyrdom.

To recall the sacrifices of the martyrs throughout the course of Sikh history is a part of the Sikh tradition. This is done while offering ardas or the daily prayer morning and in evening.

The Sikhs have always revolted against the cruelty and trying to achieve peace and harmony. Even during the 18^th century, when the ruling powers and foreign invaders launched a ruthless campaign against them, they matched the situation with courage. They show the true spirit of heroism and unparallel faith in the power of almighty. These values are imbibed in the children at a very young age.  The glory of Sikhism is all about the legends who laid their lives fighting for the truth.