Sheik Farid was a Sufi poet of great repute, belonging to the medieval period. He is one of the few distinguished Muslim saints whose works have been included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism. About 116 of his compositions are present in the holy book.
Sheik Farid was an authoritative person in the Muslim spiritual order. He was also a reputed figure in
Punjabi literature. He is credited with the unique honor of being the first Sufi poet in Punjab. The message propagated by his verses has a universal appeal, since they are not confined to any particular religious doctrine. They promote pity and compassion towards fellow human beings. The main theme of his writings is ‘
vairagya,’ which means renunciation. This great poet and saint considered the materialistic pleasures of the world as the major obstacles in the path towards the Almighty. His writings exhibit his powerful and sensitive thoughts.
The thoughts promoted by Sheik Farid's verses earned them a place in the holy book of Sikhism. The present city of
Faridkot in Punjab has been named in honor of this great saint.
