Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji – The Enlightened Soul Who Paved the Path of Sikh Dharam

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru of Sikh Dharam, was a divine figure who revolutionized spirituality, challenged societal norms, and laid the foundation of Sikhism. was a visionary, a spiritual leader, and a beacon of love and compassion. Born on 15th April 1469 in Nankana Sahib, present-day Pakistan, Guru Nanak was a beacon of wisdom, love, and compassion. His teachings continue to inspire millions of followers across the globe, transcending boundaries of time, culture, and language. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the profound teachings and the remarkable life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was blessed with divine enlightenment from a young age. From his childhood, he displayed extraordinary wisdom, deep contemplation, and a quest for spiritual truth. His spiritual journey started with a profound experience at the age of 30, known as the “divine revelation” at the river Bein, where Guru Nanak disappeared for three days and emerged with a new divine vision.

Divine Calling

At the age of 30, Guru Nanak Dev Ji experienced a divine calling during a deep meditation by the river Bein. He emerged with a message of Ik Onkar, emphasizing the oneness of God and the unity of all creation. This revelation marked the beginning of his spiritual journey, where he travelled far and wide, spreading his message of love, equality, and service to humanity.

Founding Sikhism

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine revelation marked the birth of Sikhism. He preached equality, love, and the oneness of humanity, transcending religious, social, and cultural differences. He emphasized the importance of Naam Simran (meditation on the Divine Name) and selfless service (Seva) as paths to attaining spiritual enlightenment.

What Is a Hukamnama?

Name of Guru	Guru Nanak’s real name was ‘Nanak’. His nickname was Baba Nanak. His followers address him by names like Nanak, Baba Nanak, Nanak Dev Ji and Nanakshah etc.
Birthplace	Rai Bhoin Di Talwandi, Sri Nankana Sahib
Birthday	Puranmashi of Kattak in 1469
Parents	Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s parents were Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta. Mehta Kalu was a prominent Hindu and a landlord in the village of Talwandi, while Mata Tripta was a devoted and pious woman. They were blessed with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who went on to become the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism.
Spouse	Mata Sulakhani Ji belonged to Chona Gotra Village Pakho Ke Randhawe, Batala City. Married on Jeth 24th 1545 Bikrami.
Gurgaddi	1526 Bikrami Kattak Sudi Poornmashi,
Joti Jot	1596 Bikrami Assu Vadi Dasmi, Sri Kartarpur Sahib, 10th October 1539
Children	Baba Sri Chand Ji Born on 1551 Bikrami, Baba Lakhmi Dass Ji Born on 1554 Bikrami

Three Pillars of Sikhism

Guru Nanak Dev Ji laid the foundation of Sikh Dharam based on three fundamental principles: Naam Japna (chanting and remembering God’s name), Kirat Karni (honest living and hard work), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others and practicing charity). These pillars serve as guiding principles for Sikhs in leading a purposeful and virtuous life.

Universal Message of Love and Equality

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings emphasize love, compassion, and social equality. He challenged the rigid caste system, misogyny, and inequalities prevailing in society during his time. He advocated for the empowerment of women, and equality among all human beings, and condemned discrimination based on religion, caste, or creed.

Composition of Gurbani

Guru Nanak Dev Ji‘s profound spiritual experiences and divine wisdom have been beautifully captured in the form of Gurbani. The sacred verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, continue to be a source of guidance, solace, and inspiration for Sikhs around the world. With profound poetic expressions and melodious rhythms, the Gurbani encapsulates the essence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings.

Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Oneness of God (Ik Onkar): Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached the concept of Ik Onkar, affirming the existence of one divine force that permeates through all creation. This monotheistic belief forms the cornerstone of Sikhism, emphasizing the unity of all beings.

ਇਕ ਓਅੰਕਾਰ ਸਤਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ॥
Ik ōaṅkār sat nām kartā purakh nirbha’u nirvair.

Equality and Social Justice: Guru Nanak Dev Ji vehemently opposed the caste system, inequality, and discrimination prevalent in society. He preached the importance of treating all human beings as equals, regardless of their caste, creed, or gender.

ਸਭਨਾ ਜੀਆ ਕਾ ਇਕੁ ਦਾਤਾ ਸੋ ਮੈ ਵਿਸਰਿ ਨਾਹੀ ॥
Sabhnā jīā kā ik dātā sō mai visar nāhī.

Naam Simran: Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasized the practice of Naam Simran, the remembrance of God’s name, as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. Through meditation and prayer, one can connect with the divine and transcend the material world.

ਸਿਮਰੋ ਸਿਮਰੋ ਸਿਮਰੁ ਸੁਖਾਨੀ ਜੀਅ ਦੁਖ ਬਿਸਰਾਇਆ ॥
Simarō simarō simar sukẖānī jīa dukh bisrāiā.

Service (Seva): Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasized the importance of selfless service to humanity (Seva). He believed that serving others with humility and compassion was a way to realize the divine presence within oneself and in others.

ਸੇਵਾ ਕਰਤ ਹੋਇ ਨਿਹਕਾਮੀ ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਹੋਤ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਸੁਆਮੀ ॥
Sēvā karat hōi nihkāmī tis ka’u hōt parāpat su’āmī.

Legacy

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, a faith centred on love, equality, and service. He travelled extensively, spreading his message and establishing Sikh communities (Sangats) where people could come together to worship, learn, and serve. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s legacy continues to inspire millions around the world, transcending boundaries of religion, caste, and nationality.

Conclusion

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life and teachings continue to guide and inspire humanity towards a path of righteousness, love, and equality. His legacy transcends centuries, reminding us of the value of compassion, selfless service, and devotion. The profound impact of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings is evident in the vibrant Sikh community and the countless lives that have found solace, salvation, and purpose through Sikh Dharam. Let us embrace Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s universal message of love and unity, promoting a world where all beings live in harmony and respect for one another.

ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ ਕਾ ਖਾਲਸਾ, ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ ਕੀ ਫਤਿਹ।
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Who was Guru Nanak Dev Ji?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the first Guru and founder of Sikh Dharam. He was a divine soul who preached love, equality, and spiritual enlightenment.

What were Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s key teachings?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasized the importance of Naam Simran (chanting God’s name), selfless service (Seva), and living an honest and virtuous life. He promoted equality, compassion, and the unity of all humanity.

What was Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message to society?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji challenged social inequalities, including the caste system and the mistreatment of women. He preached for the inclusion and empowerment of all individuals, regardless of their background or social status.

How did Guru Nanak Dev Ji promote interfaith dialogue?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji engaged in meaningful conversations with spiritual leaders of different faiths, promoting understanding, respect, and harmony. He emphasized the underlying unity between different religions and sought common ground among diverse communities.

What is the significance of Gurbani in Sikhism?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine wisdom and spiritual experiences are encapsulated in Gurbani, the sacred verses of the Guru Granth Sahib. Gurbani serves as a guide for Sikhs, providing spiritual solace, moral guidance, and a means to connect with the divine.

How did Guru Nanak Dev Ji impact society and Sikhism?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings laid the foundation of Sikh Dharam and had a profound impact on society. His message of love, equality, and spiritual enlightenment continues to inspire millions, shaping the beliefs and practices of the Sikh community worldwide.

Where is the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in a town called Talwandi, which is now known as Nankana Sahib. It is located in present-day Pakistan. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birthplace holds immense significance for Sikhs, and Nankana Sahib is considered one of the holiest sites in Sikhism. It is a place of pilgrimage for Sikhs from around the world who come to pay their respects and seek spiritual solace.