Masand system
Also called: Masands · Topic: Regional Resistance: Rajputs, Ahoms, Sikhs · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
The masands were agents of the Sikh Gurus. They collected offerings from Sikhs living in different areas and carried them to the Guru. The system began under Guru Ram Das and was organised by Guru Arjan. Guru Arjan also asked followers to give dasvandh, one-tenth of their income. Over time, many masands became corrupt and kept the money for themselves. Guru Gobind Singh therefore abolished the system.
Example
In 1699, when he founded the Khalsa at Anandpur, Guru Gobind Singh ended the masand system. After this, Sikhs were linked directly to the Guru and the Khalsa, with no middlemen.
Don't confuse with
- Manji system: the 22 manjis of Guru Amar Das were preaching districts. The masands were mainly collectors of offerings.
Related concepts
- Guru Angad
- Guru Amar Das
- Guru Ram Das
- Guru Arjan
- Harmandir Sahib
- Guru Granth Sahib
- Guru Hargobind
- Miri-piri
- Akal Takht