What is the concept of Miri and Piri in Sikh Religion?
A. Since the times of Guru Hargobind, the concept of Miri-Piri was introduced in Sikh Religion. Guru Jee wanted to wear 2 swords at the initiation ceremony: one of Piri (divine power) and the other of Miri (temporal power). He also raised army to defend Sikh religion against the state repression let loose by the Mongol rulers. Akal Takht (The throne of Timeless Being) was set up by Guru Hargobind (as his seat of Temporal power) and political decisions were taken sitting there. It was constructed in front of Harmandir Sahib(Golden Temple), so that temporal power is subordinate to spiritual power or divinity of Sikh religion. During misal period all Sikh Sardars assembled here on two occasions, Diwali and Baisakhi, to take stock of the Sikh affairs. This gathering was called Sarbat Khalsa. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was also called by Akali Phula Singh to appear at Akal Takhat,when he violated Sikh Maryada by marrying a Muslim dancing girl Moran. Akal Takhat held a special role in Sikh religi
