Ethnography of the Hermit Kingdom

The Japji is by far the best-known work of Guru Nanak (1469-1539) -- poet, philosopher, historian, composer, First Sikh Guru and founder of the Sikh faith. Many Sikhs recite its sacred verses daily. Its title derives from the root "jap-" meaning to recite or chant. Dr. Rupinder Singh Brar provides in this book a compelling new translation with commentary. He also examines its core concepts, and presents the Japji as a condensed summary of Guru Nanak's philosophy. Dr. Brar notes that, perhaps due to its exalted status as a religious text, the Japji remains under-appreciated as a literary and philosophical gem, and that its importance within South Asia's literary and cultural heritage is still little known outside the Sikh community. This highly readable translation and commentary are published by the Smithsonian's Asian Cultural History Program in conjunction with the 550th anniversary of Guru Nanak's birth (1469-2019). -- Introduction.