Introduction
Guru Purab, also known as Gurpurab, refers to the celebration of the birth or anniversary of a Sikh Guru. Guru means a spiritual teacher or master.
In Sikhism, there are ten Sikh Gurus, and Guru Purab is observed to commemorate significant events in their lives. The term "Purab" means "day" or "occasion," and "Guru Purab" is a day dedicated to honoring and remembering the teachings and contributions of the Sikh Gurus.
The most widely celebrated Guru Purabs are those of the first Guru, Guru Nanak Dev, and the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. These celebrations are marked with great enthusiasm and devotion by the Sikh community.
Although, I am not a Sikh by religion but I feel a special affinity towards Guru Nanak Dev and his teachings. I also go to Gurudwara, a place of worship for Sikhs, quite often and feel very peaceful there.
About Guru Nanak Dev
Guru Nanak Dev was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was born on April 15, 1469, in Talwandi, present-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan.
From a young age, Guru Nanak showed a deep interest in spiritual matters and a compassionate nature. At the age of 30, he had a transformative experience while meditating by the river Bein.
After this experience, he began to spread his teachings, emphasizing the oneness of God and the equality of all people, regardless of their caste or religion.
Some interesting anecdotes
Guru Nanak Dev's life is rich with anecdotes and stories that illustrate his teachings and the spiritual wisdom he shared. Here are a few anecdotes about Guru Nanak Dev:
The Sacred Thread:
Once, when Guru Nanak was a young boy, his father gave him money to conduct a profitable business. Instead, Guru Nanak used the money to feed a group of hungry saints. When questioned about his actions, Guru Nanak replied that he had made a profitable investment in the well-being of others.
The Sower of Seeds:
Guru Nanak worked as a storekeeper for a wealthy landowner. One day, instead of selling the stored grain, he distributed it to the needy. When asked to explain his actions, Guru Nanak stated that he had sown the seeds of charity, which would yield a far greater harvest.
The Honest Trader:
Guru Nanak worked for a merchant named Daulat Khan. One day, Daulat Khan accused him of stealing because the accounts didn't add up. Guru Nanak explained that he had maintained honest records and that if there was a discrepancy, it was due to God's will. When Daulat Khan opened the accounts again, they miraculously balanced.
The Meal with Bhai Lalo:
Guru Nanak chose to eat with Bhai Lalo, a humble carpenter, over Malik Bhago, a rich landlord. This act of dining with Bhai Lalo, who had simple and honest earnings, conveyed the Guru's message of the equality of all people, irrespective of their social status.
The Disappearing Food:
On one occasion, Guru Nanak and his companion Bhai Mardana were guests of a poor farmer. The farmer offered them simple food, and as they ate, it appeared as if the food kept replenishing itself. This incident symbolizes the divine grace and blessings associated with Guru Nanak.
These anecdotes not only highlight Guru Nanak's compassion, honesty, and emphasis on equality but also illustrate the deeper spiritual lessons he aimed to convey through his actions and teachings.
Teachings
Guru Nanak traveled extensively, covering long distances to spread his message of love, equality, and devotion to God.
His teachings emphasized the importance of meditation, selfless service, and living a truthful life. Guru Nanak's travels took him to various parts of India, as well as to Mecca and Medina, where he engaged in dialogues with people of different faiths.
Guru Nanak's teachings were later compiled into the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. The Guru Granth Sahib contains hymns not only by Guru Nanak but also by the subsequent Sikh Gurus and other saints. It serves as the eternal Guru for Sikhs.
Here are some core teachings of Guru Nanak Dev as reflected in the Guru Granth Sahib:
Oneness of God (Ik Onkar): Guru Nanak emphasized the concept of a single, formless, and omnipresent God. He stressed that there is only one God who is the creator of the universe.
Equality and Oneness of Humanity: Guru Nanak rejected the caste system and stressed the equality of all human beings. He proclaimed that all people, regardless of their background, are equal in the eyes of God.
Naam Simran (Meditation on God's Name): Guru Nanak advocated the practice of meditation and remembrance of God's name as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine.
Kirat Karo (Honest Livelihood): Guru Nanak encouraged his followers to earn an honest living through hard work and integrity. He emphasized the importance of sharing one's earnings with others, especially those in need.
Vand Chakko (Sharing with Others): Guru Nanak emphasized the principle of selfless service and sharing with others, particularly with those who are less fortunate. He promoted a community-oriented and compassionate approach to life.
Rejecting Rituals and Ceremonies: Guru Nanak criticized empty rituals and external ceremonies that lacked true devotion and understanding of God. He emphasized a direct and sincere connection with the divine.
Humility and Humbleness: Guru Nanak taught the importance of humility and humility before God and fellow human beings. He encouraged his followers to remain modest and free from arrogance.
Conclusion
It’s time that we apply Guru’s teachings in our daily lives and as a tribute to the Guru we try to become humble, compassionate, honest, and meditative. This will make him happy!