⟵ Back to videos

Symbolism in the Guru Granth Sahib: The Swan

Tuesday
,
4
October
2022

The contrast of a Wisdom-oriented individual with a self-centered person is brought forth with the analogy of a swan and a crane.

The contrast of a Wisdom-oriented individual with a self-centered person is brought forth with the analogy of a swan and a crane. While the swan is shown to be interested in only picking pearls (love of IkOankar, 1Force, Divine), the crane stands on one leg with its eyes half-closed pretending to be oblivious of its surroundings while its real motive is to catch fish that comes near it.

The Sikh Research Institute recognizes its ethical responsibility to promptly correct any factual small or large errors. Please get in touch with us via email to request a correction if you have identified a mistake.

Suggest a correction →

In This Video

Surender Pal Singh

Senior Research Associate

Surender Pal Singh is a Senior Research Associate at the Sikh Research Institute. He holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies and English. 

View profile ⟶

Latest Videos

Monday
,
20
October
2025

What is the Sikh stance on idol worship?

Idol worship is practiced in many traditions around the world. In Sikhi, however, the Divine is infinite and cannot be confined to any shape or form.

watch now ⟶
Thursday
,
16
October
2025

Explore Salok Sheikh Farid Ji (Salok 37-65)

In saloks thirty-seven through sixty-five, Sheikh Farid Ji describes the typical human life, where beings are drawn to glittery yet ultimately harmful transient things and relationships, spending their entire lives in pursuit of them.

watch now ⟶
Wednesday
,
8
October
2025

Guru Teghbahadar Sahib: The Perfect Sword, Warrior, Sovereign

Harinder Singh, Senior Fellow, Research & Policy at SikhRI, presents an insightful lecture on “Guru Teghbahadur Sahib: The Perfect Sword, Warrior, Sovereign,” exploring the Guru’s ideals of moral courage, spiritual strength, and sovereignty of the self.

watch now ⟶

Share on Social Media

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay informed with our weekly updates, important events and more at SikhRI.

Thank you! Your submission has been received.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.