KRODH (Ski. krodh(i) or wrath is an emotion recognised in the Sikh system as a spring of co-nation and is as such counted as one of the Five Evils. It expresses itself in several forms from silent sullenness to hysterical tantrums and violence. In Sikli Scripture krodh usually appears in combination with ham as ham krodh. The coalescence is not simply for tlie sake of alliterative effect. Krodh (ire) is the direct progeny of kdm (desire). The latter when thwarted or jilted produces the former.
The Scripture also counts krodh (or its synonym kop) among the four rivers of fire. “Violence, attachment, covetousness and wrath,” says Guru Nanak “arc like four rivers of fire; those who fall in them burn, and can swim across, 0 Nanak, only through God`s grace” (GG, M7).Elsewhere he says, “Kdm and krodh dissolve tlic body as borax melts gold” (GG, 932). Guru Arjan, Nanak V, censures krodhm these words: “0 krodh, thou enslavcsl sinful men and then cap crest around them like an ape. In thy company men become base and arc punished variously by Death`s messengers.
The Merciful God, the Eradicator of the sufferings of the humble, 0 Nanak, alone saveth all” (GG, 1358). Guru Ram Das, Nanak IV, warns: “Do not go near those who are possessed by wrath uncontrollable` (GG, 10). Krodh is to be vanquished and eradicated. This is done through humility and firm faith in the Divine. Guru Arjan`s prescription: “Do not be angry with any one; search your own self and live in the world with humility.Thus, 0 Nanak, you may go across (the ocean of existence) under God`s grace” (GG, 259).
Shaikh Found, a thirteenth century Muslim saint whose compositions arc preserved in the Sikh Scripture, says in one of his couplets: “0 Farid, do good to him who hath done thee evil and do not nurse anger in thy heart; no disease will then afflict thy body and all felicities shall be thine” (GG, 138182). Righteous indignation against evil, injustice and tyranny is, however, not to be equated with krodh as an undesirable passion. Several hymns in the Guru Granlh Sahib, particularly those by Guru Nanak and Kabir, express in strong terms their disapproval of the corruption of their day.
References :
1. Sabadmih Sri Guru Granth Sahib fi. Amrksar, 1964
2. Jodh Singh, Bhai, Gurmat Nirnaya. Ludhiana, 1932
3. Sher Singli, The Philosophy of Sikhism. Laliore, 1944
4. Avtar Singh, Ethics of the Sikhs. Patiala, 1970
5. Nirbhai Singh, Philosophy of Sikhism. Delhi, 1990
Krodh: Overcoming Anger in Spiritual and Moral Development
Introduction
Krodh, meaning anger or wrath, is one of the Five Evils in Sikh philosophy, alongside kām (lust), lobh (greed), moh (attachment), and ahankaar (ego). Anger is a natural human emotion, often triggered by frustration, injustice, or unmet expectations. However, when left unchecked, krodh becomes a destructive force that impairs judgment, harms relationships, and hinders spiritual growth.
Understanding Krodh
Krodh is more than a fleeting emotion; it manifests as an overpowering state of mind that clouds reason and disturbs inner peace. Sikhism views anger as a spiritual obstacle that distances individuals from the Divine and disrupts their moral balance. Guru Nanak Dev Ji warns in the Guru Granth Sahib, “Consumed by anger, man wanders lost in the darkness of ignorance” (GG, 140). Anger blinds individuals to the consequences of their actions, leading to harm that often exceeds the original provocation.
The Consequences of Anger
Unrestrained krodh manifests in various forms, including verbal abuse, physical aggression, and resentment. These expressions of anger damage relationships, erode trust, and create an environment of hostility. On a personal level, anger leads to stress and mental agitation, undermining physical health and emotional well-being. Guru Arjan Dev Ji observes, “Krodh is a venomous serpent that poisons the mind and soul” (GG, 1418).
Anger also impedes spiritual progress by fostering negativity and pushing individuals away from compassion and humility. It distracts the mind from the practice of meditation (naam japna) and selfless service (seva), which are essential to Sikh living.
The Antidote: Patience and Forgiveness
The Sikh Gurus emphasize patience (sabr) and forgiveness (maafi) as remedies to krodh. Patience allows individuals to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, ensuring that their actions align with moral principles. Guru Nanak advises, “Conquer anger with forgiveness; the heart that forgives is filled with peace” (GG, 223).
Forgiveness is not an act of weakness but a conscious choice to let go of resentment and embrace understanding. By forgiving others, individuals free themselves from the burden of anger and create space for compassion and reconciliation. Guru Amar Das Ji declares, “The one who forgives rises above their own ego and walks the path of truth” (GG, 1391).
Living Beyond Krodh
Overcoming krodh requires consistent practice and mindfulness. Sikhism advocates meditation as a powerful tool to cultivate inner peace and self-control. Through recitation of the Divine Name (simran), individuals can calm their minds and reconnect with their higher purpose.
Another essential practice is seva, or selfless service, which encourages individuals to focus on uplifting others rather than dwelling on anger or personal grievances. By engaging in acts of kindness, one can shift their perspective from negativity to gratitude and compassion.
Conclusion
Krodh, or anger, is a powerful emotion that can either destroy or inspire, depending on how it is channeled. Sikhism teaches that anger must be controlled and transformed into constructive energy through patience, forgiveness, and mindfulness. As Guru Nanak reminds us, “The one who conquers anger conquers their own mind” (GG, 1246). By overcoming krodh, individuals can nurture their spiritual and moral growth, creating harmony within themselves and with the world around them.
