Overview
A takht, also known as a taata in Punjabi, is a spiritual and temporal center of Sikhism. There are five Takhts, or gurudwaras, that hold special significance for the Sikh community.
The first and most important, ‘Akal Takht’ (the Throne of the Timeless God), was established by Guru Hargobind in 1609 and is located just opposite the gate of Harmandir Sahib – The Golden Temple, Amritsar. The Harmandir Sahib, or Golden Temple, represents Sikh spiritual guidance, whereas the Akal Takht represents justice and temporal activity. It is the Khalsa’s highest temporal authority and the earthly authority of the Sikh religion. The Guru held his court there, deciding on military strategy and political policy. Later, the Sikh Nation (Sarbat Khalsa) made decisions on matters of peace and war here, as well as settled disputes between various Sikh groups.
