Here's a breakdown of how it came about:
* Ancient Roots: The roots of Punjabi language can be traced back to Prakrit languages spoken in the region of Punjab, India, centuries before the founding of Sikhism.
* Development: Over time, these Prakrit languages evolved into Apabhramsha and eventually into Punjabi. The language was enriched by influences from Sanskrit, Persian, and other languages.
* Guru Nanak's Influence: Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, embraced the language spoken by the people of Punjab. He used it to compose his hymns (shabads) and spread his teachings.
* Gurus' Contribution: Subsequent Sikh Gurus continued to use Punjabi as the language of their teachings and writings. They further refined and standardized the language, using it in religious texts like the Guru Granth Sahib.
* Rise of Khalsa: The establishment of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, further cemented the use of Punjabi as the language of Sikh identity and culture.
Therefore, the Punjabi language of Sikhism is not the creation of any single person but a product of the rich history and cultural evolution of the people of Punjab. The Sikh Gurus played a significant role in its standardization and development, but they did not "invent" it.