Not merely the founder of Sikhism, Shri Guru Nanak Dev propagated human equality and warned against blind belief. A tribute on his 554th birth anniversary celebrated on November 27 by 30 million Sikhs the world over.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the 10 Sikh Gurus, was not merely a religious figure but a beacon of humanity, compassion, and social justice. His teachings reverberate through the annals of time, transcending centuries to inspire and guide humanity toward a path of righteousness, equality, and enlightenment. Guru Nanak’s philosophy encompasses a profound humanism that remains remarkably pertinent in today’s world.
At the heart of Guru Nanak’s teachings lies a resolute emphasis on the oneness of humanity. He propagated the concept of Ik Onkar, the belief in the unity of God, emphasizing that all human beings are equal regardless of their caste, creed, religion, or social status. In an era marred by deep-seated societal divisions and discriminatory practices, Guru Nanak’s message of equality and unity was revolutionary. He challenged the prevailing societal norms that fostered discrimination and propagated the dignity of every individual.
His teachings against blind faith and ritualism challenged the dogmas prevalent during his time. Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of spirituality over mere religious practices. He advocated for a direct connection with the divine through meditation, honest living, and serving humanity. His rejection of empty rituals and emphasis on genuine, heartfelt devotion resonates with the modern quest for spiritual authenticity.
Guru Nanak was a vehement critic of social exploitation and oppression in all its forms. He spoke out against the oppressive caste system, societal hierarchies, and economic injustices prevalent in society. His teachings denounced the exploitation of the poor and marginalized, advocating for compassion, empathy, and sharing with those in need. He established the concept of langar, a community kitchen where people from all walks of life could sit together and share a meal, breaking down barriers of caste and class.
The Guru’s humanitarian efforts extended beyond religious boundaries. He traveled extensively, engaging in dialogues with people from different faiths and backgrounds, promoting mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities. His messages of peace, love, and harmony resonate with the principles of tolerance and coexistence that are vital in today’s multicultural world.
Guru Nanak’s teachings on women’s rights were revolutionary for his time. He advocated for gender equality, condemning the subjugation and mistreatment of women. He believed in the inherent dignity and equality of women, empowering them with equal rights and respect in society. His teachings emphasized the importance of education for both men and women, recognizing the crucial role of women in shaping a progressive society.
The Guru’s legacy as a humanitarian and social reformer remains incredibly relevant in addressing contemporary global challenges. In an era marked by religious extremism, intolerance, and social inequality, Guru Nanak’s teachings offer a beacon of hope and guidance. His emphasis on compassion, selflessness, and service to humanity serves as a guiding principle for fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Furthermore, Guru Nanak’s teachings resonate strongly with the ideals of modern humanism. His emphasis on the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their background or beliefs, aligns with the core values of humanism. He encouraged critical thinking, rationality, and a quest for truth, challenging individuals to seek enlightenment through knowledge and introspection.
Guru Nanak’s profound teachings as a great humanitarian, advocate against blind belief, and proponent of social justice transcend time and continue to hold immense relevance in the modern world. His legacy serves as a guiding light, inspiring individuals to strive for a more equitable, compassionate, and harmonious society. As we navigate the complexities of the contemporary world, the universal message of Guru Nanak stands as a testament to the enduring power of humanism, social justice, and the pursuit of a more enlightened humanity.
You can also read it at The Indian Panorama:
Guru Nanak’s anthem for the universe
Rabindranath Tagore
Film actor Balraj Sahni once asked Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore, “Gurudev, you have written India’s national anthem. Did you ever think about writing an anthem for the entire universe?” Tagore replied, “Guru Nanak has already written the universal anthem.”
What Tagore called the universal anthem was the aarti Guru Nanak sang in after witnessing the famous aarti at the Jagannath temple in Puri, India. Aarti is a Hindi term meaning benediction/offering in reverence.
The original lyrics of Guru Nanak’s aarti starts with the line:
Gagana mai thālu ravi candu dīpaka banē tārikā maṇḍala janaka mōtī .
The lines he wrote were the Guru’s reverent commendation of nature’s arrangements in the universality of its presentation. His few words of appreciation and gratitude were his aarti, devotional poetry of enlightenment describing God’s luminous lila (play).
The Celestial Aarti in translation
In the sky’s salver, the Sun and the Moon are the lamps And the stars with their orbs are the studded pearls.
The fragrance of sandalwood makes Thy incense Wind Thy fan and all the vegetation Thy flowers, O Luminous Lord
What a beautiful worship with lamps is being performed! Such is Thine adoration O Lord, the Destroyer of dread
The celestial strain is the sounding of template drums
Thousands are Thine eyes, yet thou hast no eye Thousands are Thine forms, yet Thou hast not even one
Thousands are Thine holy feet, yet Thou hast not one foot.
Thousands are Thine noses and yet Thou art without a nose
I am bewitched by these plays of Thine
Amongst all there is light and that light art Thou
By His Light, the light shines within all the souls
By Guru’s teaching the Divine light becomes manifest
Whatever pleases Him, that is His real worship
My soul is bewitched by the honey of the lotus feet of God and, night and day, I am thirsty for them
Bless Nanak, the pied cuckoo, with the Nectar of Thine mercy, so that he may have an abode in Thy Name, O Lord
— Translated by Bhai Manmohan Singh
