The Adi Granth: The Holy Scriptures of The Sikhs

Ernest Trumpp’s The Adi Granth is a pioneering work in Sikh studies, offering one of the earliest translations of the Sikh scripture into English. Published in the late 19th century, Trumpp’s effort laid the groundwork for future scholars to engage with the Guru Granth Sahib in a Western academic framework. Despite the limitations of his time, his meticulous approach to linguistics and philology provided valuable insights into the structure and language of the Sikh sacred text. Trumpp’s deep knowledge of Sanskrit, Persian, and Indian vernaculars allowed him to attempt a translation that, while controversial, was instrumental in bringing the teachings of Sikhism to a broader audience. His work remains an important historical reference for those interested in the colonial study of Sikh texts and early Western interpretations of Indian religious traditions. For scholars of comparative religion, Indology, and Sikh history, The Adi Granth by Trumpp is a significant, if debated, milestone in the academic exploration of Sikh scripture.