Guru Nanak: The Saint of Unity and Humanity

By Sahil Razvi, New Age Islam 25 October 2024. Guru Nanak, The Founder Of Sikhism, Promoted Unity, Humanity, And The Oneness Of God. His Teachings Transcended Religious Boundaries, Urging People To Embrace Shared Values And Compassion. His Legacy Of Harmony Continues To Inspire Millions, Symbolized By His Sacred Hymns And The Revered Sikh Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib. Main Points: 1. Guru Nanak was born in Talwandi (Nankana Sahib), Punjab, in 1469 CE. 2. He emphasized the oneness of God and unity across all religions. 3. His teachings are preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, written in multiple languages. 4. He used simple analogies and stories to teach profound spiritual truths. 5. Guru Nanak's philosophy transcended ritualistic differences, promoting brotherhood and service to humanity. ------ Guru Baba Nanak ------ Among the most revered saints in history who dedicated their lives to guiding humanity, Guru Baba Nanak occupies a high rank. His life was devoted to serving humanity, putting the well-being of others above his personal comfort. Our beloved homeland, specifically Punjab, takes pride in being the birthplace of Guru Nanak Ji. The village where he was born, originally called Talwandi, has since grown into the town of Nankana, often referred to as "Nankana Sahib" out of respect. Guru Nanak Ji, the founder of Sikhism, earned great reverence for his teachings, which continue to inspire millions today. He emphasized the oneness of God and the unity of humanity, advocating for brotherhood and harmony among people of all religions, whether Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or Zoroastrian. This message of unity brought him lasting fame, as he strived to teach people that sectarian divisions are temporary and superficial, and that at the core, all humans are one and should treat each other with love and respect. This universal message of harmony can be beautifully captured by the following lines: ‘Nanak Ne Ek Noor Se Sab Jag Upjaya, Kaun Bhale, Kaun Mande.’ (Nanak taught that from the same light all of creation arose, Who then is good or bad?) Guru Nanak’s efforts to bridge divides between religions are reflected in the way Sikhism honors everything associated with him or his successors with the term "Sahib." For instance, the largest Sikh scripture containing Guru Nanak’s hymns and teachings is known as the "Guru Granth Sahib." The most prominent place of worship for Sikhs, located in Amritsar, is "Darbar Sahib." Throughout his life, Guru Nanak left behind several memorials, such as "Kiyara Sahib," a field restored through his prayers, and "Kothri Sahib," a small room where he was briefly imprisoned. Born in 1469 CE in Talwandi, Guru Nanak’s early years showed signs of his future greatness. As a child, he displayed a deep understanding of the essence of his faith, often prioritizing inner values over outward rituals. This tendency remained a defining feature throughout his life. When he studied under a teacher, a Pandit, and later a Maulvi, his focus always shifted from the formalities of education to spiritual truths. Despite concerns from his parents, who hoped he would become a successful businessman, those with keen insight saw the signs of his future moral and spiritual greatness. This journey from spiritual awareness to divine insight is reflected in these verses: ‘Mitti Dhund Jag Chanan Hoya, Jion Kar Suraj Nikleya.’ (The mist cleared and the world became bright, As if the sun had risen.) Guru Nanak’s early education helped shape the depth of his understanding, which is evident in the Guru Granth Sahib. This text contains his profound insights into the divine and demonstrates his knowledge of both Hinduism and Islam. Although Punjabi was his primary language, Guru Nanak’s writings extend into both Persian and Sanskrit. To communicate his teachings, Guru Nanak employed simple analogies, stories, and examples that made complex religious principles accessible to everyone. Many of these teachings have been passed down as instructive stories. For example, during his Janeu (sacred thread) ceremony, when asked to wear the thread that would elevate him into the higher castes, Guru Nanak questioned its significance. He argued that such a thread only stays with the body and does not accompany the soul after death. Instead, he sought a spiritual thread made from the virtues of good deeds, contentment, purity, and truth, explaining that such a thread would endure beyond this life. Guru Nanak’s teachings also addressed Muslims. In one story, Nawab Daulat Khan, a prominent Muslim of the time who knew Guru Nanak well, witnessed a debate between the Guru and a Qazi at the Nawab’s mosque. This story, like many others from his life, illustrates how Guru Nanak emphasized inner spiritual values over outward religious practices. Guru Nanak’s life was an unwavering call for unity and brotherhood, urging people to look beyond religious divisions and embrace the common humanity that binds them. This message, combined with his profound spiritual insight and dedication to serving humanity, continues to inspire millions today, and his legacy endures through the teachings of Sikhism. As these lines echo the core of his philosophy: ‘Na koi Hindu, na Musalman, Sabka Maalik Ek Hai.’ (There is neither Hindu nor Muslim, The Lord of all is one.) ----- Sahil Razvi is an Author and Research scholar specialising in Sufism and History and an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia. 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