Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born on April 15, 1469, in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan), is celebrated as the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. His teachings, which emphasized the oneness of God, equality among all people, and a life dedicated to honesty and service, continue to inspire millions worldwide.
Family Background: Guru Nanak was born to Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta in a Hindu landowning family. From an early age, he displayed a profound spiritual inclination, often questioning traditional religious practices and emphasizing direct communion with God over rituals.
Marriage and Family: Guru Nanak married Mata Sulakhni and had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakhmi Das. Despite his family responsibilities, he felt a deep spiritual calling and a commitment to serving humanity.
Spiritual Awakening
Guru Nanak’s spiritual journey took a transformative turn after a profound revelation during a bath in a river. This spiritual awakening led him to dedicate his life to spreading God’s message, a mission that took him on extensive travels across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. These travels, known as the Udasiyan, played a pivotal role in shaping his teachings.
Major Teachings
Oneness of God: Guru Nanak preached the core belief in one formless, eternal God, the creator of all, emphasizing that God transcends all boundaries and distinctions.
Equality: He was a strong advocate for social equality, rejecting caste distinctions and promoting the idea that all people, regardless of their social background or gender, are equal in the eyes of God.
Service and Community: One of Guru Nanak’s most lasting contributions was the establishment of Langar, a community kitchen where people from all walks of life could come together and share a meal. This practice emphasized the values of selfless service and social equality.
Direct Access to God: Guru Nanak taught that individuals could connect directly with God through meditation and remembrance (Naam), without needing intermediaries like priests. This concept of personal spirituality was revolutionary and integral to Sikhism.
Later Life
Guru Nanak settled in Kartarpur, where he continued his spiritual mission until his death on September 22, 1539. Before passing, he appointed his devoted disciple Bhai Lehna as his successor, who became known as Guru Angad Dev Ji, ensuring the continuity of his teachings.
Legacy
Guru Nanak’s teachings are preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, which contains hymns written by him and other Sikh Gurus. His emphasis on devotion to God, equality, and service to humanity remains a guiding light for Sikhs and people of all faiths.
Guru Nanak Jayanti, an annual celebration of his birth, serves as a time to reflect on his message of peace, unity, and devotion, inspiring generations to live a life of love, service, and spiritual fulfillment.
