Goindwal as a Sikh centre
The Baoli at Goindwal
Guru Ji begins a great stepped well that becomes a pilgrimage site and draws in many volunteers.
Macauliffe retells the chronicles' account of how the digging went on for years and how Bhai Jetha, the future Sri Guru Ram Das Ji, carried earth like any labourer. When it was finished the water was sweet, and the Sikhs celebrated. Macauliffe adds that Guru Ji promised release from rebirth to anyone who recited the Japji on each of its 84 steps.
Today the well is reached by 84 covered steps. The Encyclopaedia notes a platform at the entrance marking where Guru Ji sat to watch the work.
How do we know?
Several traditional accounts tell this story, without close independent support.
The well exists and its link with Guru Ji is not in question. No source from his lifetime was found for the 1559 date. The number of steps describes the well as it now stands.
- ScholarshipDates the digging from 1559 and describes the well, an open shaft 8 metres across with 84 steps.[EoS]
- ScholarshipSays the Goindwal baoli was built by Guru Ji and is a major pilgrim site.[EoS]
- Later traditionDescribes the work on the well, Bhai Jetha's labour and the sweet water.[Macauliffe]
- ScholarshipNames Baba Buddha among those who dug at the site.[EoS]
