Sikhism - The Guru Granth Sahib

1. The Guru Granth Sahib is the Sikh holy book.

2. It is made up of the sacred writing of six of the gurus and is written in Gurmukhi, meaning from the mouth of the gurus.

3. The Guru Granth Sahib has one thousand four hundred and thirty pages and comprises of hymns, or shabads.

4. These have been arranged according to the raga, or melody, in which they are meant to be sung.

5. The first version of the Guru Granth Sahib was organised by Guru Arjun Dev, this was known as the Adi Granth.

6. He left some blank pages so other gurus could add their contributions.

7. Incorporated into the Guru Granth Sahib are the writings of some Hindu and Muslim saints, showing that Sikhism is universal.

8. The Guru Granth Sahib is treated like a live guru and given great respect.

9. The Adi Granth was placed in the Golden Temple.

10. Guru Gobind Singh ordered that when he died the Sikh Holy Book should become the guru for all Sikhs.

11. Worshippers bow before the Guru Granth Sahib.

12. During the day, the Guru Grant Sahib is opened on cushions on a raised platform called a takht, or throne.

13. The platform is covered by a canopy, which is decorated with attractive and expensive materials.

14. If it is not being read, the Guru Granth Sahib may be covered with a cloth called a rumalla.

15. While it is being read a fan, or chauri may be waved above it out of respect, to keep it cool.

16. The Mool Mantra, the Sikh statement of belief, forms the opening of the Guru Granth Sahib

17. Reading the whole of the Guru Granth Sahi, called Akhand Path, takes 48 hours.

18. A whole reading often forms part of Sikh religious ceremonies.

19. The Guru Grant Sahib teaches Sikhs many important values.

20. It is taken care of by a granthi, who has to be specially trained.

21. The granthi take the Guru Grabth Sahib out in the morning and puts it away at night.

22. The granthi may also recite from the Guru Granth Sahib and lead prayers.