Introduction
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, also known as Baba Nanak, was the founder of Sikhism and the first Sikh Guru. Born in 1469, Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings revolved around unity, truth, and devotion to one God. His poetic hymns are enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the holy scripture of Sikhism. His message was simple: there is only one God, and all human beings are equal. Through his spiritual poetry and extensive travels, Guru Nanak Dev Ji transformed the religious and social landscape of the time.
Early Life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1469 (traditionally celebrated on Kartik Purnima) in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). His parents, Mehta Kalu Ji and Mata Tripta Ji, were Hindus of the Khatri caste. His father was a revenue official under the local governor.
From childhood, Baba Nanak displayed a deep interest in spirituality. While other children engaged in play, he spent time meditating and questioning religious customs. At a young age, he astonished his teachers with his wisdom. One of his most famous early incidents was when he refused to wear the Sacred Thread (Janeu), a Hindu ritual, stating that true purity comes from within and not from external symbols.
Spiritual Awakening and Message
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life changed forever after a mysterious incident. One day, he went to bathe in the Kali Bein River but did not return for three days. When he emerged, his first words were:
“Na koi Hindu, na Musalman”
(There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim; all are equal in the eyes of one God.)
This moment marked the beginning of his divine mission. Baba Nanak taught that God is formless (Nirankar), eternal, and beyond human divisions. His message emphasized:
Ek Onkar (ੴ) – There is only one God.
Naam Japna – Meditate on God’s name.
Kirat Karni – Earn an honest living through hard work.
Vand Chakna – Share with others and help the needy.
Udasis (Spiritual Journeys)
Guru Nanak Dev Ji embarked on four major Udasis (spiritual journeys), traveling across India, Tibet, Persia, and the Arabian Peninsula. His purpose was to spread the message of unity, truth, and devotion to one God. He visited Hindu temples, Muslim mosques, and Buddhist monasteries, engaging in dialogues with religious leaders.
Visit to Mecca: Guru Nanak Dev Ji traveled to Mecca, where he laid down with his feet pointing towards the Kaaba. When a qazi angrily questioned him, Guru Nanak Dev Ji responded, “Turn my feet in the direction where God does not exist.” The qazi was speechless, realizing that God is everywhere.
Dialogue with Siddhas: In Tibet, Guru Nanak Dev Ji debated with Hindu ascetics. He rejected the idea of renouncing the world, teaching that one must live a spiritual life while fulfilling worldly responsibilities.
Visit to Haridwar: In Haridwar, Guru Nanak Dev Ji saw people offering water to their ancestors in the sun. He began throwing water in the opposite direction, towards Punjab. When questioned, he replied, “If my water cannot reach Punjab, how can yours reach your ancestors in the sun?” This exposed the superstitions in religious rituals.
Some of the most famous Gurbani by Guru Nanak Dev Ji include:
Japji Sahib – One of the Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Asa Di Vaar – One of the Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Bara Mah – One of the Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Sidh Gosht – One of the Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Dakhni Onkar – One of the Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Mool Mantar – Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s most important Gurbani, written after he experienced enlightenment.
Establishment of Kartarpur Sahib
In 1522, Guru Nanak Dev Ji settled in Kartarpur (now in Pakistan). Here, he established the first Sikh community, emphasizing a simple life of Naam Simran (meditation), honest work, and sharing with others. The principles of Langar (community kitchen), where everyone eats together regardless of caste or religion, began here.
Final Years and Legacy
Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent his final years in Kartarpur. Before his passing on September 22, 1539, both Hindus and Muslims claimed his body. To settle the dispute, Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked them to place flowers on either side of him, stating that whoever’s flowers remained fresh the next morning could perform his last rites. The next morning, his body had disappeared, and both sides found their flowers still fresh. This symbolized that Baba Nanak belonged to all of humanity.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Impact
- Sikhism grew into a distinct faith with a strong foundation in equality, justice, and devotion.
- Gurdwaras worldwide preserve his teachings, including Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib.
- His message of unity and oneness remains relevant today, inspiring millions.
Conclusion
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, also lovingly called Baba Nanak, is one of history’s greatest spiritual leaders. His poetry, teachings, and travels continue to shape Sikhism and inspire humanity towards a path of truth, equality, and devotion. His philosophy of Ek Onkar (One God) and service to others remains timeless. The legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is a beacon of hope in a divided world, reminding us that we are all one human family.
