Shikshapatri at the Bodleian
Shikshapatri is a sanskrit manuscript, written in 1826 by Shree Swaminarayan, the founder of Swaminarayan Hinduism. The manuscript outlines the moral and spiritual codes for the everyday life of Swaminarayan Hindus, and was intended to be read, heard or venerated daily.
The copy in the Bodleian’s collection is believed to be the oldest copy and one of very few in presented by Shree Swaminarayan himself. It was given by Shree Swaminarayan to Sir John Malcolm, the Governor of Bombay, in order to promote an understanding between their cultures.
To this day the book remains sacred, an object of veneration for 20 million followers of Swaminarayan. The Bodleian regularly makes provision for the book to be displayed for followers to come and pay respects, and to perform the Aarti.
Known as ‘the ceremony of light,’ the Aarti typically features tealights. As flames are not permissible in the Bodleian Libraries, visitors are advised to bring artificial, electric tea lights in replacement.
There are three upcoming viewings of Shikshapatri on the current Bodleian calendar: the weekends of 10-11 June 2017, 12-13 August 2017, and 4-5 November 2017. More will be scheduled later.
Between viewings, Shikshapatri has been on display as part of the Bodleian Treasures exhibition. Readers can also access a digital reproduction of Shikshapatri online.
