Miri-Piri

(मीरी-पीरी)

Literal Meaning

Temporal and spiritual authority

Etymology & Sanskrit Root

From Persian 'mir' (ruler) and 'pir' (spiritual master); Guru Hargobind introduced the doctrine by wearing two swords together.

Spiritual Insight & Context

The doctrine holds that spiritual and political authority are inseparable — righteous power is needed to stand against oppression.

Where Miri-Piri Comes Up

Guru Hargobind and the Doctrine of Miri-Piri

After his father's execution, Guru Hargobind wore two swords, Miri and Piri, at the new Akal Takht, uniting temporal and spiritual authority in one Guru.

Guru Ram Das and the Founding of Amritsar

The fourth Sikh Guru, Ram Das, founded the city later named Amritsar around a sacred pool, the Amrit Sarovar, that his son Guru Arjan Dev would complete around the Golden Temple.

Panj Takht

The Five Sacred Seats of Sikh Authority