THE HISTORY OF BHAGAT SHEIKH BHIKH
[ THE HISTORY OF BHAGAT SHEIKH BHIKH ]
Bhagat Sheikh Bhikh Ji – A Humble Voice of Divine Love
Bhagat Sheikh Bhikh Ji was a Muslim Sufi saint and spiritual poet whose single hymn is included in the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting the universality of the Sikh scripture. Although details about his life are scarce, his bani speaks of humility, detachment, and divine remembrance.
Basic Information:_
Time Period: Likely 15th–16th century CE
Place of Origin: Possibly from Uttar Pradesh or Central India
Background: A Muslim Sufi, likely associated with the Chishti or Qadiri Sufi tradition
Language: Early Hindi-Punjabi mix (Sant Bhasha)
Spiritual Beliefs:_
Sheikh Bhikh Ji emphasized Naam Simran (remembrance of God), detachment from worldly desires, and inner purity.
He spoke against materialism and egotism, aligning with the Bhakti and Sufi movements, which focused on inner devotion rather than external rituals.
His worldview resonates strongly with Sikh philosophy.
Contribution to Guru Granth Sahib:_
1 hymn by Sheikh Bhikh Ji is included in the Guru Granth Sahib on Ang 488.
In this hymn, he reflects on old age and spiritual awareness, warning against wasting one’s life in worldly attachment.
Key Thought from His Bani:_
> "ਬਾਘੁ ਬਗੀਚਾ ਸੰਗਿ ਮਿਤ੍ਰ ਸੰਪਤਿ, ਏ ਸਭਿ ਹੋਹਿ ਬਿਦੂਰ ॥"
"Gardens, friends, and wealth — all will leave you one day."
This conveys a clear message: only the remembrance of God will stay with you in the end.
Confusion with Bhagat Bhikhan:_
Some believe Sheikh Bhikh is another name for Bhagat Bhikhan Ji, but:
Bhagat Bhikhan Ji is also a Muslim Sufi, with clear historical identity and more recognized works.
The Guru Granth Sahib treats them as separate contributors, suggesting they are distinct individuals.
Legacy:_
Sheikh Bhikh Ji's inclusion reflects Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s universal vision — honoring saints from different backgrounds if their message aligned with divine truth. His solitary shabad is a reminder of impermanence, and the importance of turning inward to find God.
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***Jeetu Gill ***
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