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Bhagat

Bhagat (Panjabi, Sanskrit "bhagavara") are writers among the Sikhs whose compositions are included in the Adi Granth, but who are non-Sikhs, or Sikhs who are not Gurus. These include Namdev, Kabir, Ravidasi, Sundas. The material which they wrote is known as bhagat beni. The inclusion of such material illustrates the claim of Guru Nanak that revelation and truth are to be found in all regions. As a consequence, the scriptures of other religions should also be respected by the Sikhs. A.G.H.

Bowker, John, The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, New York, Oxford University Press, 1997, p. 139