The teachings of Guru Nanak are logical and easy to understand. His definition of God is captured in the mool mantra — IkOnkar Satnam Karta Purakh Nirbhau Nirvair Akal Murat Ajuni Saibangh Gurparsad, which means — ‘One,True Name, Creator, Fearless, Without Vengeance, Beyond Time, Does not Incarnate, Selfexistent, Understood only by Grace.’ Once God is defined, Nanak proceeded to explain that the purpose of life is to become truthful, for which one has to purify actions, listen to the gurus’ words and practise meditation. To attain truth, one has to purify the mind by realising consciousness.
According to Nanak, dharma is a product of compassion, supported by contentment. These two qualities play pivotal role in religion. Nanak said that as we sow so shall we reap and, therefore, encouraged everybody to cultivate virtues. According to the first Sikh guru, serving the needy is an important duty of society. Hence, the first langar, free kitchen, was started by the guru in 1489.
On social issues, Nanak emphasised equality of human race, irrespective of caste, colour, creed, gender or race. For him, creation was from one God and, therefore, no one should claim to be superior or inferior. Consequently, on women, Nanak said, “How can she be called inferior when kings are born of her. ”To the sages in the mountains, he said that if all good and pious people retired to mountains to meditate, how will society benefit. So, the message of Nanak, as contained in his various compositions, urged people to lead a householder’s life, work hard and then share something in charity. This message is encapsulated in the three pillars of Sikhism: Naam japo, kirat karo, and vand chakko— ‘Meditate, earn honestly, and share with others.’ He emphasised the dignity of labour, and observed that truth may be the highest virtue, but truthful living is even higher.
On environment, Guru Nanak said that the earth has to be treated like mother; water like father, and air like guru. This message in the concluding shlokaof Japji Sahibis recited several times daily during meditation, individually and collectively.
One has to guard against any type of pollution to the environment. The Sikhs, therefore, explicitly seek the well-being of all, all the time and specifically after their daily formal prayers.
On economics and commerce, Nanak emphasised literacy, gaining knowledge, healthy living, increased workforce, and encouraging investment. Again, the emphasis was on ethics and truthful behaviour.
The world continues to be divided by class and caste wars; not only people, even countries are divided. There is widespread hunger, poverty and deprivation. Racial and gender discrimination is equally strong.
The United Nations, through its various organisations, is making efforts to unite the world by voting against racism and apartheid. And, the World Bank as well as many other institutions, are making efforts to combat poverty and income inequalities. Compassion and contentment are necessary for sustainable growth.
In the absence of such virtues, aggressiveness and greed lead to distrust, conflict and wars while the earth gets exploited. To summarise, the message of Guru Nanak is as relevant to the world now, as it was in the 15th century when it was delivered. Guru Nanak emphasised on equality, simplicity and righteousness.
-Charan Singh
