Guru #8 of 10
Guru Har Krishan Ji
The Child Guru · Bala Pir
Guru Har Krishan Ji became the eighth Sikh Guru at just five years old — making him the youngest Guru in Sikh history. Despite his young age, he showed wisdom and healing power far beyond his years, and he sacrificed his own life to save others during a smallpox epidemic in Delhi.
The Story
Born on July 7, 1656, in Kiratpur Sahib, Guru Har Krishan Ji was the younger son of Guru Har Rai Ji. He became Guru at age five in 1661, after his brother Ram Rai was passed over for having disrespected the Gurbani before Aurangzeb.
The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb summoned the young Guru to Delhi, suspicious of his growing influence. Guru Har Krishan Ji traveled to Delhi with his followers. At Delhi, a smallpox epidemic was raging and thousands were dying.
Guru Har Krishan Ji opened the Gurudwara to all sufferers. He went from bed to bed, holding the hands of the sick, giving them water, and praying with them. He is said to have transferred the suffering of others onto himself. Eventually, the young Guru contracted smallpox himself.
On his deathbed at just eight years old, his followers asked who would be the next Guru. He said only 'Baba Bakale' — meaning the next Guru would be found in the village of Bakala. He passed away on March 30, 1664, aged eight. Sikhs call him 'Bala Pir' — the Child Saint.
Key Contributions
- Served as Guru from age 5 to 8 — the youngest Guru
- Traveled to Delhi and ministered to thousands of smallpox victims
- Gave his own life to serve and heal the sick
- Showed wisdom beyond his years in all spiritual matters
Core Teachings
- Age does not determine wisdom — God's light shines in all
- Serve others without fear, even at cost to yourself
- A true healer shares the suffering of others
Legacy
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi, India, stands where Guru Har Krishan Ji served the sick. The sacred pool there is believed by many to have healing properties. His example of selfless service — even by a child — remains one of the most moving stories in Sikh history.