In his otherwise excellent survey on major schools of Sikh studies (Dec.18), Awaltar Singh Sekhon refers to Pashaura Singh as a former granthi three times. When taken in context his reference to the term “granthi” is pejorative; it is as if the profession of a granthi is somehow less than honorable.
I am writing not to defend Pashaura Singh or his mentor McLeod (my opinions on their work have been published by you earlier), but 10 point out that in Sikhism the traditional of granthi is a noble and respected one, as would be the clergy in any religion. The granthi, the repository of our tradition, historically was often a scholar and guiding spirit for the community. .Our granthi is not exactly equivalent to the priest or minister in other religions and that is a plus for us, but the office of the granthi needs and deserves our respect and support. Only then will it attract and hold the caliber of scholars that we need in the 21st century.
Nevertheless, Sekhon has rendered a very useful service with his comprehensive presentation and I appreciate it I will not quibble with him at this time on the evaluation of individual authors where he and I differ.
I.J. Singh
North Bellmore, NY.
Article extracted from this publication >> January 8, 1993
