guru granth: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Religious
Quick answer
What does “guru granth” mean?
The central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered the final and eternal living Guru.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered the final and eternal living Guru.
Refers to the sacred text, also called the Adi Granth or Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which is a compilation of hymns and teachings from Sikh Gurus and other saints. It is accorded the highest respect in Sikh religious practice and worship.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is used identically in both varieties, given its specific religious and cultural reference.
Connotations
Conveys deep religious reverence and specific cultural identity (Sikhism). No regional connotative differences.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both regions, appearing primarily in religious, academic, or cultural discussions related to Sikhism.
Grammar
How to Use “guru granth” in a Sentence
[worship/venerate] + the Guru Granth[read/recite] + from the Guru Granththe teachings/words + of + the Guru GranthVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, and South Asian cultural studies contexts. E.g., 'The philological study of the Guru Granth.'
Everyday
Used by Sikhs and those familiar with Sikhism in religious contexts. Unlikely in general casual conversation.
Technical
Used specifically within Sikh religious practice and theology to denote the central scriptural and spiritual authority.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “guru granth”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “guru granth”
- Using 'Granth' alone to refer to the scripture (it is usually 'Guru Granth').
- Referring to it as just a 'book' without acknowledging its status as a living Guru.
- Misspelling as 'Guru Grant'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, in Sikhism it is not considered merely a book but the living, eternal Guru and the supreme spiritual authority.
Yes, it can be read by anyone, but within Sikh religious practice, it is approached with specific protocols of respect and cleanliness.
It is primarily written in Gurmukhi script and contains hymns in several languages including Punjabi, Persian, and various medieval Indian dialects.
The Adi Granth refers to the original compilation by Guru Arjan in 1604. The Guru Granth Sahib is the final version, given its status as eternal Guru by Guru Gobind Singh in 1708.
The central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered the final and eternal living Guru.
Guru granth is usually formal, religious in register.
Guru granth: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡʊruː ˈɡrʌnt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡʊru ˈɡrɑːnt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: The GRU (as in group) of spiritual wisdom and GRANTh as in a grand, granted authority. The 'Guru Granth' is the granted (Granth) spiritual guide (Guru) for Sikhs.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIVING TEACHER (The text is not merely a book but is treated as a living spiritual teacher and guide).
Practice
Quiz
What is the Guru Granth Sahib?