Gyani

Gyani is someone learned in the Sikh religion. Often leads the congregation in prayers, such as Ardas, or in singing kirtan. The word "Gyan" in Punjabi means Knowledge. So a "Gyani" is someone who has spiritual and religious knowledge and can help the congregation called the Sadh Sangat in understanding of the Sacred Texts and history of this religion.

The person could be a male or female as the Sikh religion gives equal rights to both sexes. He or she will have undergone an intensive course of study and evaluation at an academic or religious institute. They will have a thorough knowledge of the Guru Granth Sahib the Sikh Holy Granth (or Book) and will have the ability to translate the words of sacred text into simple everyday language. So Gyanis can also communicate in English and this is a major bonus to western children who are not fluent in Punjabi or Gurmukhi, which is the language used in the holy scriptures.

Spiritually, a true Gyani is called a Brahm Gyani. This is what the Guru Granth Sahib says about such a person:

Quotation|The True One is on his mind, and the True One is upon his lips. He sees onlythe One. O Nanak, these are the qualities of a Brahm Giani (knower of God). TheBrahm Giani is always uncontaminated, as the lotus in the water remains detached.The Brahm Giani is always unstained, like the sun, which gives its comfort andwarmth to all. The Brahm Giani looks upon all alike, like the wind, which blowsequally upon the king and the poor beggar. The Brahm Giani has a steadypatience, like the earth, which is dug up by one, and anointed with sandalpaste by another. This is the quality of the God-conscious being: ONanak, his inherent nature is like a warming fire...|Guru Granth Sahib Page 272

ee also

*Pratap Singh Giani
*Giani Chet Singh
*Giani Zail Singh