5 teachings by Guru Nanak that will change the way you look at life
Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as ‘Guru Nanak’s Prakash Utsav’ and ‘Guru Nanak Gurpurab’, marks the significance of the birth of the first Sikh Guru – Guru Nanak. This day (celebrated like a festival) falls in the month of Kartik (November) according to the Hindu calendar.
Sikhs across the world celebrate birthdays of all of their ten gurus as Gurpurab. Guru Nanak Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He was the first Sikh Guru who laid the foundation of Sikhism. He was born in 1469 in Talwandi, a village near Lahore. He travelled extensively to spread the message of peace and love. According to Hindu Lunar Calendar, Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on the Purnima (full moon night) of Kartik month. This year, it will be celebrated on November 12.
On the celebration day, people visit Gurudwaras to offer prayers. Devotees read 'paath' from Guru Granth Sahib at about 4 AM at Amrit Vela and organise many other events. Dressed in traditional attires, people pray with pure hearts.
His teachings can be found in the sacred Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib -- a vast collection of verses recorded in Gurmukhi. Here we bring you 5 teachings by Guru Nanak that will change the way you look at life...
1. Importance of Guru
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Guru according to him is the voice of God, the true source of knowledge & salvation. He says there is only one God who is the Supreme Truth and ultimate reality. He knows no fear and does not have any enemies.
2. Shun 5 evils
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Ego, Anger, Greed, Attachment and Lust, these are the 5 evils that one should shun. Any of this 5 evil, makes life miserable.
3. Three pillars of Sikhism
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Vand Chhako- Sharing with others, helping those with less or those who are in need.
Kirat Karo (work diligently)- Earning/making a living honestly, without exploitation or fraud.
Naam Japo (contemplating God's names)- Meditating on God's name to control the five evils and living a satisfying life.
4. Find your own guru
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You need a mentor to guide you on how to live right. In Guru Nanak Ji’s words, living right is much superior to visiting pilgrimage destinations.
5. Be selfless
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Being selfless is the supreme duty of human beings. For Nanak, the concept of selfless service was a way of life. Everyday Golden Temple feeds thousands of people of all religions selflessly because it is a sacred duty.
