Page 10 - Gurmat Book 6

Lesson 4: Shaheedi of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the youngest of the five sons of

the Sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji and Mata Nanaki Ji. He

was born on April 1, 1621 and was named Tyag Mal. He was not

like other children his age. When he was young, he sat for

hours in meditation. The environment at home in Amritsar helped

him develop appreciation for a life of selfless service and

sacrifice.

Bhai Gurdas Ji taught him Gurbani and Hindu texts. Baba Budha

Ji taught him archery and horsemanship. He was married to

Mata Gujri Ji at the age of 12 years.

Emperor Aurangzeb was worried about the rising power of the

Sikhs. Amritsar became a center of conflict with the Mughals.

Guru Hargobind Ji left Amritsar in 1634 to travel other parts of

Punjab. In April, there were clashes between the imperial army

and the Sikhs. Tyag Mal Ji showed his swordsmanship in that

skirmish. He was so brave and skilled at sword that his name

was changed to Tegh Bahadur by his father.

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji became the ninth Guru on August 11,

1664. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji traveled extensively to meet the

Sikh Sangat living in faraway regions and spreading the message

of the Sikh Gurus. A son was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

and Mata Gujri Ji. He was named Gobind Rai.

Sikh History and Gurmat Sikhia Book 6 Page 8