Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurb 2024: 10 timeless teachings of Sikh's first guru

Guru Nank Dev Ji Gurpurb 2024: Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, imparted teachings that emphasise spiritual wisdom, equality, humility, and devotion to God. His teachings, encapsulated in Gurbani (the sacred hymns written by the Gurus), serve as a guide to living a truthful, compassionate, and righteous life.

Here are some of the core teachings of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev Ji as reflected in Gurbani

Oneness of God: Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that there is only one God, who is eternal, formless, and beyond human comprehension. This is reflected in the opening lines of the Japji Sahib, one of his most important hymns:

"Ek Onkar, Satnam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhao, Nirvair, Akal Moorat, Ajuni, Saibhang, Gurprasad."

This means: "There is one God, the Truth is His Name, the Creator, without fear, without hate, immortal, beyond birth and death, self-existent, known through the Guru's grace."

Equality of All Humans: Guru Nanak Dev Ji strongly advocated for equality among all people, regardless of caste, creed, gender, or social status. He rejected the caste system and all forms of discrimination. In Gurbani, he teaches that all human beings are equal in the eyes of God

"Nanak naam chardi kala, tere bhane sarbat da bhala"

This translates to: "Nanak prays for the prosperity of all, with the divine name of God ever in mind."

He emphasised that every person has the same spiritual potential, and the path to salvation is open to all.

Selfless Service (Sewa): Selfless service to humanity is a key teaching of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He believed that serving others without expecting anything in return brings one closer to God. In Gurbani, he highlights the importance of living a life of humility and service

"Pehla seva, chautha rehit, karni japu, sunna jap."

This means: "The first and foremost service is to serve others; the fourth is to practice the disciplined life, chanting God's name and listening to it."

Remembering God (Simran): Guru Nanak Dev ji emphasised the importance of meditating on God's name (Naam Simran) as a way to connect spiritually and purify the mind. In his hymns, he urges followers to constantly remember and repeat the name of God, which brings peace and tranquility.

"Simran naam ka, taro, bandhan, jeevan ka."

This translates to: "Through the remembrance of God's name, one can liberate oneself from the bondage of worldly attachments and live a fulfilled life."

Honest Living (Kirat Karni): Guru Nanak Dev ji taught that one should earn a living through honest means and hard work. He discouraged any form of exploitation or deceit, stressing that one's work should be pure and beneficial to society.

"Kirat karni, naam japna, vand chakna"

This means: "Earn an honest living, meditate on God's name, and share with others."

Sharing with Others (Vand Chakna): Guru Nanak Dev ji encouraged sharing wealth and resources with others, especially the poor and the needy. He taught that true spirituality lies not in accumulating wealth, but in using it to help others.

"Vand chakna, seva karni, naam japna"

This translates to: "Share your wealth, perform selfless service, and repeat God's name."

Detachment from Materialism: Guru Nanak emphasised detachment from material possessions and desires. He taught that attachment to worldly things leads to suffering and distractions from spiritual growth. The focus should always be on divine love and wisdom.

"Maya moh na jaaye, keena diwas na raat"

This means: "The attachment to wealth and possessions does not last forever; it is fleeting and illusionary."

Universal Brotherhood: Guru Nanak’s teachings promote the idea of universal brotherhood. He preached that all humans are part of one divine creation, and we should live in harmony with each other, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or nationality.

"Sabna jia ka ek daata, so mai visaar na jaaye"

This translates to: "The Creator is the giver of life to all beings; I will never forget Him."

Compassion and Forgiveness: Guru Nanak Dev Ji stressed the importance of compassion, kindness, and forgiveness in life. Holding grudges and seeking revenge is discouraged, as these actions distance individuals from God.

"Daya daat, kripa kaar, saran raakh lehe"

This means: "Show compassion, grant mercy, and seek refuge in God’s grace."

Living in the Present: Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that one should live in the present moment, without worrying about the past or future. He emphasised the importance of focusing on spiritual growth and fulfilling one's responsibilities in the here and now.