BIHANGAM, from Sanskrit vihang which means a bird, is a term applied to wandering ascetics who lead a life of complete detachment. A Biharigam is a celebate who lives in poverty renouncing all worldly ties and follows the path of holiness. In the Hindu tradition, he, abjuring religious dogma, worships Siva, Rama and other incarnations. Bihangams, among Sikhs, are likewise holy men who do not marry and who shun worldly ambition and temptation. The object of their devotion is the One Supreme Being.
They recite gurbani, the Sikh canon, and devote themselves to nam and seva. They do not form any separate sect; in fact, the most unworldly of the followers of different orders give themselves this name. For instance, several of the Nirmala Sikhs take pride in calling themselves Bihangams. They wear white and, instead of learned study of the holy texts which is customary with the Nirmalas, they occupy themselves with humbler deeds of service. Their most popular centre is at Mastuana, near Sangrur, in the Punjab. They interpret the word bihangam as aconstruction from hangata, Skt. aham = ahanta, meaning egoity or pride, a Bihangam being one who discarding these takes to the path of humility.
References :
1. Rose, H.A., A Glossary of the Tribes and Castes of the Punjab and North-West Frontier Province. Patiala, 1970
2. The Census Reports.
Bihangam
The Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhism, serves as a beacon of spiritual wisdom, weaving together metaphors and symbols from various traditions to deliver timeless truths. Among its references is the term Bihangam, a word that evokes imagery associated with flight and transcendence.
In Hindu and other ancient Indian traditions, the term Bihangam refers to birds, often symbolizing freedom, elevation, and detachment. Birds, with their ability to soar above the earth, represent the spiritual aspiration to rise above material bondage and connect with the divine. This imagery is deeply resonant in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib.
In Sikh philosophy, Bihangam serves as a metaphor for the soul’s journey toward liberation. The scripture often describes the soul as longing to break free from the shackles of worldly attachments, much like a bird yearning to soar into the infinite skies. The bird symbolizes spiritual awakening, the pursuit of truth, and the embrace of divine wisdom.
The Gurus emphasize the importance of detachment, or vairagya, as a step toward spiritual elevation. Like birds that glide effortlessly in the skies, individuals are encouraged to rise above ego, greed, and desires, finding contentment in divine love. The Bihangam becomes a poetic representation of the soul’s transcendence and ultimate union with the Creator.
By invoking symbols such as Bihangam, the Guru Granth Sahib underscores its inclusive approach, incorporating familiar motifs to convey universal teachings. The scripture invites individuals to reflect on their inner journey and strive for freedom from worldly distractions in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
In conclusion, the reference to Bihangam in the Guru Granth Sahib is a powerful metaphor for the soul’s aspiration to transcend the material world and attain divine union. It inspires seekers to rise above limitations, embrace spiritual truths, and soar toward liberation in the light of the Creator.
