History and Context

Ginans are sacred devotional hymns that share knowledge in the topics of cosmology, rituals, eschatology, ethical behavior, and meditation. They are written for the purpose of delivering messages which is how this piece of poetic literature gets its name. The term “ginan” comes from the Sanskrit word “jnan” which means “knowledge” or “wisdom”. Ginans are composed in short and long verses. Once written, they are recited verbally in a poetic rhythm.

The Composition of Ginans Began in the 12th Century and the Number of Composed Ginans is Estimated to be in the Hundreds

Traditionally, each ginan is recited with a particular rhythm (or “raag”). They can simply be read with no raag at all or a different one altogether. Historically, the vast number of ginans were composed in Gujarati, Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Burushaski, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Arabic, Persian and others.

Guidance and Esoteric Meaning

Ginans illustrate the higher realm and provide insight to the true meaning of life. They distinguish righteousness and provide clarity to the pathway to enlightenment, the soul’s transitions, its role and functions, as well as other sacred gnoses. They consist of various themes and teach important moral lessons. Ginans evoke awareness in a variety of contexts ranging from cosmology, eschatology, salvation, enlightenment, and meditation.

Esoteric Knowledge Can Be Found in The Deeper Meaning of Ginans

As a form of poetic literature, ginans contain a wealth of spiritual knowledge and guidance for the soul in the physical world. Ginans provide motivation for enlightenment. It is said that ginans has the power to rejuvenate the soul into everlasting life. Therefore, even though Ginans are often an outwardly practice of the faith (zahir), they provide the vessel through which the inner meaning of the faith (batin) can be understood.