Guru Jambheshwar (1451–1536) was a sadhak, yogi and saint who founded the Bishnoi Panth, a Vaishnavite sect emphasizing non‑violence and environmental conservation. He established 29 guiding principles and composed 120 verses known as Shabadwani.
Overview
Guru Jambheshwar, also known as Guru Jambhoji, lived from 1451 to 1536 and was a sadhak, yogi, and saint who founded the Bishnoi Panth. The sect is a Vaishnavite tradition that places strong emphasis on devotion to Vishnu, non-violence, and environmental stewardship in the arid regions of Rajasthan, India.
In 1485, a severe drought inspired Guru Jambheshwar to establish 29 guiding principles. These principles covered personal conduct, devotional practice, and ecological stewardship, forming the core of the Bishnoi faith.
He also composed 120 verses, known as Shabadwani, which further articulated the teachings and values of the sect. Through these writings and principles, Guru Jambheshwar shaped a faith centered on compassion for all living beings.
Legacy and memory
The Bishnoi community maintains several temples dedicated to Guru Jambheshwar, with the most revered being the Mukti Dham Mukam located in the village of Mukam in Nokha tehsil, Bikaner district, Rajasthan. This site is considered the holiest among Bishnoi shrines and houses a temple constructed over the samadhi of Guru Jambheshwar.
In addition to religious commemorations, Guru Jambheshwar’s legacy extends into education. The Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology in Hisar, Haryana, bears his name, reflecting the enduring influence of his teachings beyond the immediate region of Rajasthan.
These commemorations underscore the lasting impact of Guru Jambheshwar’s spiritual and environmental principles, which continue to be honored through both sacred sites and academic institutions.
Based on: the Wikipedia article (CC BY-SA 4.0) — facts from that source; edited and translated by Times of Rajasthan.