Seeking truth – lessons from Guru Nanak

As we observe Guru Nanak Gurpurab on 15 November and commemorate the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, we reflect on his profound teachings that continue to inspire many worldwide. 

The Japujī Sāhib, his opening composition in the Gurū Granth Sāhib, lays the foundational principles of Sikh dharma, exploring themes such as the nature of the One God, the importance of truthful living, and the path to spiritual enlightenment. 

This week, we delve into the opening lines of the Japujī Sāhib, where Guru Nanak emphasises the quest for true understanding beyond mere intellectual effort and external practices.

ਸੋਚੈ ਸੋਚਿ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਜੇ ਸੋਚੀ ਲਖ ਵਾਰ॥
socai soc na hovī je socī lakh vār
ਚੁਪੈ ਚੁਪ ਨ ਹੋਵਈ ਜੇ ਲਾਇ ਰਹਾ ਲਿਵ ਤਾਰ॥
cupai cup na hovī je lāe rahā liv tār

“By thinking, the One cannot be understood; even by thinking hundreds of thousands of times. By remaining silent, inner silence is not obtained, even by remaining constantly absorbed in meditation.”
– Gurū Granth Sāhib, Japujī Sāhib, Pauri 1 –

Seeking Truth Beyond External Practices

Guru Nanak Dev Ji challenges the belief that the Divine can be fully grasped through intellectual efforts alone. He highlights that the infinite nature of the Creator transcends human reasoning, and no amount of contemplation can encapsulate it. Similarly, he points out that physical silence or prolonged meditation does not guarantee spiritual enlightenment. Without genuine inner transformation and devotion, such practices remain superficial and fail to lead to true peace or realisation. 

He invites us to look beyond external efforts and rituals, urging a deeper, more authentic connection with the Divine. True understanding arises from experiencing the Divine within, which goes beyond the limitations of the mind and senses. This journey involves surrender, humility, and living in harmony with the Divine Will (hukam).

Embracing Inner Transformation

The path to true understanding involves aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with higher principles. By embodying virtues such as honesty, compassion, humility, and selflessness, we cleanse ourselves from within. This inner transformation fosters a deeper connection with the Divine and brings a sense of peace and fulfillment. 

Guru Nanak encourages us to engage in practices that nurture the soul. True devotion is reflected not in rituals but in the way we live our daily lives—treating others with kindness and acting with integrity, even when no one is watching.

Reflecting on Our Spiritual Journey

As we observe Guru Nanak Gurpurab, embracing inner transformation over external rituals leads us closer to true understanding and fulfillment. By opening ourselves to Divine grace and embodying the virtues taught by Guru Nanak, we enrich our lives and positively impact those around us, fostering a more compassionate and truthful world.

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