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Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a great spiritual leader who laid the foundation of the Sikh religion. Throughout the world, he has been a source of inspiration for millions. In an age of religious and social upheaval, Born in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century he stood out as a voice of reason and compassion. He lived a life with great trust in humanity, and his never-ending search for truth was a true reflection of his love for mankind, which was inseparably linked to his compassion for others.

Sikhism is founded on his teachings that are found in Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. There has been a profound impact of his philosophy emphasizing one God, selfless service (seva), and dignity to all human beings on the Indian subcontinent and beyond. 

Early Life and Education

Guru Nanak was born on April 15, 1469, in the village of Talwandi which is now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan to Kalu an accountant and Tripta. He was a deeply spiritual person right from his childhood days. Even in his youth he was always full of compassion for others and amazed people with his various questions. 

Although he never received formal education Guru Nanak observed life closely and learned much from different sources such as Hindu scriptures, Sufi teachings, or even common sense from people around him. When he took up work as a young man working on his father’s farm land he developed an affinity with nature and adopted the rhythms of rural life. His formative years played an important role in shaping his worldview and subsequent teachings.

The Divine Call

When Guru Nanak’s age was around thirty years something remarkable happened to him which changed his life forevermore. For three days he disappeared without anyone knowing his whereabouts only to come back claiming that he had been touched by God’s light while away on the unknown spiritual journey. 

The Message of Unity

Guru Nanak was considered revolutionary because he lived in the past. He said no to the caste system insisting that all human beings were equal irrespective of their class, gender, or religion. He taught there was only one God and divinity could be found in every aspect of creation. His theory of Naam Japna (remembering God’s name) as a means of spiritual enlightenment remains central to Sikhism even today. 

Guru Nanak was a great traveler who traveled extensively on foot in four major journeys. These journeys which were called Udasiyan took him to many parts of India including Afghanistan, Tibet, and Arabia. In his interactions with people from different social backgrounds, the Guru learned more about human behavior which enabled him to advocate for interfaith harmony as well as tolerance between religions. 

Establishment of the Sikh Panth

He founded a new religious order called the ‘Sikh Panth’ since many people began adhering to his teachings. Bhai Bala, the devoted follower of Guru Nanak, was appointed as his first successor thereby initiating the system of Guruship that has been guiding the Sikh sangat for several centuries.

Guru Nanak used to teach primarily by singing hymns known as Kirtan, which were later included in his hymn collection called Gurbani (word of the Guru). These hymns are simple, profound, and universal embarking themselves in the core of Sikh religious practice.

Legacy

Guru Nanak’s impact transcends beyond the Sikh faith community, as he has remained a source of inspiration for social justice, gender equality, and service to humanity at large. Many people of different religions continue to look up to him for spiritual direction and desire a fairer world free from cruelty. Yet, despite passing away at age 70 as early as on September 22nd, 1539; he had left us with so much by the time he died that includes his spiritual teachings. This particular individual has shaped world history creating a sense of hope and courage till today’s age.