Miri Piri (MEERI PEERI)
Miri means relating to „Mir‟ (Arabic Amir means leader, chief, ruler, i.e. temporal aspect) and „Piri‟ means relating to saint (i.e. spiritual aspect). Miri and Piri together means unity of “temporal transcendental”. This is a unique Sikh doctrine, presented by Guru Nanak and manifeted by Guru Hargobind.
Though there is a popular story that Guru Hargoibnd wore two swords: one representing Miri and other Piri; but, Miri-Piri is not represented by swords. In the Sikh concept of Miri-Piri, Miri and Piri do not stand apart from each other, but they exist as one phenomenon one concept. In Sikh philosophy of the unity of Miri and Piri, do not go side by side, separately; not in two personalities of one person or in two different concepts; but it is one distinct concept.
According to this doctrine, a man of temporal domain is the defender of spiritualism, and, a man of religion is the defender of the weak, the needy and the oppressed. In other words, a man of religion must not be silent spectator of tyranny, injustice and inhumanity; and, a man in his temporal capacity must be the defender of Dharma (Righteousness).
Also see: Akaal Takht.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)