

"Japji is universally accepted to be the composition of Guru Nanak, the founding prophet of Sikhism, although, unlike other scriptural hymns and compositions, it remains anonymous without being credited individually to any of the Gurus." The composition is not assigned to any particular raga or musical measure, as is the rest of the Scriptural text. Japji is the most riveting Sikh Prayer recited by the devout early in the morning. The description of Japji Sahib that follows is taken from " The Encyclopedia of Sikhism" by Harbans Singh (published in 1996 by the Punjabi University, Patiala): All Nitnem Gutkas start with Japji Sahib and contain other Banis (hymns) as well. The collections of hymns of Sikh daily prayer are often compiled separately in a small book form called Gutkas or " Nitnem" (meaning daily prayer) Gutkas.

This Bani (composition) encompasses the spirit and theme of whole of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. The SGGS is treated as a living Guru and the respect shown for its Commandments is unique. The Ten Gurus of Sikhism were responsible for the creation of this faith which took place over period 1469 to 1708 - a period of about 239 years.Īt the point when the last of the Human Gurus departed this Earth, the Guruship was passed to the Holy Book, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib ( SGGS). This Bani was composed by the founder of the faith, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji who was the first of ten human Gurus of this faith.
