Tankhanama Part-2 || ਤਨਖਾਹਨਾਮਾ || Bhai Nand Lal Ji

Image 1: First part of Tankhanama

Questions By Bhai Nand Lal Ji and Answers By Guru Gobind Singh Ji



Before diving into the Tankhanama we must note that according to Mahaan Kosh by Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha (Sikh lexicographer and encyclopedist (1861 - 1938)), Tankha means religious punishment given to a Sikh who has violated the Rehit (Spiritual Discipline) given by the Guru. Since Guru Gaddi (Guruship) was passed to Guru Granth Sahib Ji, a Tankha is given by the Panj Piaare in the presence of Guru Sahib. This is where a Sikh or Amritdhari (initiated Sikh) can come forward and admit his/her mistakes. The Panj Piaare will then collectively give a Tankha for a certain period, this might vary from reading extra Bani (Guru’s Words) daily, to doing Seva (Selfless Service) daily in the Gurdwara. The main idea through a Tankha is to reconnect us with Guru Sahib Ji and Sikhi, which will aid us in not repeating the mistake.


This next section of the article is directly translated from the Tankhanama (code of punishment) which was revealed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Bhai Nand Lal Ji. You will notice that this is in the form of a question and answer.