Structure and Compilation:

• The Guru Granth Sahib contains 1,430 pages, composed of poetic hymns by 43 authors in 31 classical musical raags.
• Guru Arjun Dev, the fifth Guru, compiled the Granth, incorporating the hymns of the first four Gurus, enlightened Hindu and Muslim saints, Bhatt poets, and his own writings.
• Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, added the hymns of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and declared the Granth as the eternal Guru in 1708.

Reverence and Handling:

• The Guru Granth Sahib is formally known as “Siri Guru Granth Sahib” and is treated with the utmost respect and care.
• Proper preparation includes personal cleanliness and a state of reverence before handling the Granth.
• The scripture is written in Laridar (connected text) or Pad Ched (separated words) in Gurmukhi script.

Ceremonial Practices:

• Sukhasan (peaceful repose): At night or when not in use, the scripture is ceremoniously wrapped and placed in a special resting place.
• Prakash (ceremonial opening): The scripture is opened daily with prayers, placed on a decorated platform, and a random verse is read as the Hukamnama (divine order).

Special Occasions:

• The Guru Granth Sahib is transported with great care and respect, often in a litter or procession during festivals and commemorations.
• Musical hymns (Kirtan) and martial arts displays often accompany processions.

Reading and Devotion:

• Sikhs are encouraged to read and recite verses from the Guru Granth daily, known as Paath.
• Akhand Paath: Continuous reading of the entire scripture by a group.
• Sadharan Paath: Complete reading over an extended time, performed by individuals or groups.

This sacred scripture serves as a spiritual guide and unites the Sikh community in devotion and discipline, embodying the eternal teachings of the Gurus.