On November 15, we celebrate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj, founder of the Sikh faith and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was born in the year 1469 in Talwandi, Pakistan.
The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj brought Light into the lives of many people and are as applicable today as they were over 500 years ago. His divine love and Light illuminated millions showing them the path of God-realisation.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings brought about a transformation in the world. His words invited those otherwise focused on the world to reflect on the deeper meaning of life. He helped the people of the times connect with the inner Light that helps us experience ourselves as we truly are and through his love, transformed our vision from duality to oneness.
Among his prominent teachings were “Kirat Karo, Naam Japo, Vand Chhako” (Earn your living, Remember God, Share with Others”. It means that while earning our own living, we shall always remember God and share and serve others.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj came to alleviate the pains of the world. We are forever grappling with difficulties as our attention is attached to the outer world. Guru Nanak Dev Ji helped turn our attention back to God. As we invert our attention, flowers of God’s bliss blossom amidst the sorrows of the desert of the outer world. Unaffected by our outer challenges, we enjoy the inner peace and bliss of God.
Living in this world, we have forgotten God and our purpose in this life. The message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji reminded us, again and again, to remember God and to connect to that which is permanent as everything in the outer world is fleeting. Through him, the Light of God illuminated the darkness of our existence. His love and Light brought joy, happiness and peace to the lives of millions and his impact will live on for generations to come.
It was only through the grace of Guru Nanak that the people of the times could experience the love of God within. Through his teachings, he helped us awaken to our true nature as soul and guided the soul on its journey back to God. His deep love for God helped him realise the oneness of life so that his love encompassed all humanity.
In a time when transportation was limited, he undertook five world tours spreading the message of God’s love. His words lit the way for spiritual seekers around the world. His was a life of sacrifice for humanity’s salvation.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji wanted us to recognise ourselves and lead a life of Oneness with God. He gave the profound message of gender equality and honest living, which we must imbibe in our lives. May the grace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj be with each of us and his teachings and message resonate in the hearts of all.