The Life History Of Sikh Gurus Theology Religion Essay Example

revered Sri Guru Granth Sahib as their spiritual mentor (Nesbitt, 2005). The divine spirit has been passed down from one Guru to another throughout this lineage.

The Sikh Gurus are seen as a collective consciousness, manifesting in the form of ten reincarnated bodies. These enlightened and progressive souls dedicated their lives to spiritually and ethically empower the people. The Gurus aimed to enlighten individuals in order for them to lead righteous and spiritually fulfilling lives, characterized by truth, dignity, honor, and independence. The Sikh Gurus were the conveyors of timeless wisdom throughout the ages.

Over the course of 239 years, the Sikh Gurus established rules and guidelines within their sacred Bibles that were meant to be followed by all practicing adherents of this religion. The history and literature of Sikhism provide the necessary information to learn about the beliefs and practices upheld by the Gurus. Additionally, the Gurus made it clear which rituals, practices, and beliefs were not appropriate and should not be followed by the faithful adherents. They emphasized the importance of reciting the holy anthem known as Shabads, living in constant remembrance of the Supreme Creator, and leading a simple life based on truth, decency, and virtuous principles (Grover, 2009). The Sikh Gurus were exemplars of virtues, righteous actions, and honorable conduct.

The illustrations of virtuous and moral life were emphasized by Guru Nanak Dev who said, "Devotional worship is impossible without virtuous life" ( SGGS, 4 ) . The Gurus guided their followers through their words and actions. They were open to truth wherever they discovered it and their religious insight and passion, along with their active and creative abilities, gave birth to a unique

faith and spiritual community that persists in India today ( Loehlin, 1958 ) . They preached their beliefs and enforced them in their own lives.

The lives of the Gurus served as a model for those seeking truth and guided them towards leading fulfilling and meaningful lives. Each Guru had a distinct virtue that set them apart. Guru Nanak exemplified "Humility," Guru Angad immortalized "Obedience," Guru Amardas embodied "Equality," Guru Ramdas demonstrated "Selfless Devotional Service," Guru Hargobind advocated for "Justice," Guru Har Rai sanctified "Mercy," Guru Harkrishan idolized "Purity," Guru Tegh Bahadar possessed an abundance of "Calmness," and Guru Gobind Singh embodied "Royal Courage" (Dhillon, 2010). According to Guru Nanak Dev, the Guru's role was emphasized as a means to navigate through the complexities and challenges of life. The Guru is likened to a ladder, boat, and raft, serving as a vessel to help traverse the vast ocean of the universe (SGGS, p-17).

The Guru has a crucial role in guiding seekers towards overcoming life's challenges and following the path of righteousness. They serve as religious guides, helping their followers navigate the complexities of the world with confidence. The Gurus teach that there is only one God and that all individuals are equally important before God. They emphasize that anyone can achieve liberation by living a life filled with love and devoted obedience to God (Mayled, 2002). The eternal light passed down from one Guru to another now resides in the sacred text called Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which contains the wisdom imparted by the Gurus. The era of the ten Gurus spanned 239 years from Guru Nanak Dev's birth in 1469 to Guru Gobind Singh's lifetime,

ending in 1708 when he declared Sri Guru Granth Sahib as the Guru.

The table below depicts the timeline of the 10 Sikh Gurus. Guru Har Krishan attained the Guruship at the age of 5, while Guru Amar Das attained it at the age of 73. Guru Har Krishan reigned for 3 years, while Guru Nanak Dev was Guru for 70 years. The transfer of Guruship was based on virtues and spiritual level, and was entirely situational.

Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru and founder of the Sikh faith, advocated for the equality of all individuals, preaching that everyone is a child of one God. During a period marked by societal confusion and spiritual decay, he spoke out against tyranny, social injustice, insincere religious practices, empty rituals, and superstitions. He also rejected the Hindu caste system, fasting and pilgrimage, animal sacrifices, omens, asceticism, and blind devotion. In his mission to spread his message, Guru Nanak Dev embarked on extensive travels throughout India and foreign lands. His teachings were reflected in the righteous life he lived.

Guru Nanak Dev laid down three fundamental rules for every human being to follow: Firstly, one should always remember the name of God. Secondly, earn a livelihood honestly as a responsible member of society. And thirdly, share a part of their earnings with those who are less fortunate. His message was a unique and pure approach towards life, spirituality, and connection with God. Guru Nanak Dev's teachings emphasized the belief in and remembrance of the name of the one true God, acquiring wealth through honest means, sharing a portion of that wealth with others, and loving all people. As the first leader

of the Sikhs, Guru Nanak Dev's personality remains enigmatic even after 543 years. He still has a large following, and people continue to respect his words and seek guidance from his sermons and life stories.

Guru Nanak Dev, an embodiment of wisdom, fairness, empathy, devotion, and truth, imparted profound teachings through metaphors and symbolic expressions. He preached love and humility, captivating millions with his magnetic personality. Hindus and Muslims alike held him in high regard. In Punjab, the title "Baba Nanak" gained great popularity for this revered individual associated with divinity.

The Guru of the Hindus and the Pir of the Mussalmans (Duggal, 2010). He was a fearless and innovative leader who was not afraid to explore new ideas during his time. In an era of communal strife and oppression by rulers and emperors, Guru Nanak Dev sought to promote universal brotherhood. He dreamed of a society without class or caste divisions and aimed to establish a unique and independent spiritual system.

Guru Nanak Dev propagated the belief in one God extensively through his travels in all directions - North, East, West, and South. He had a clear plan and purpose to convey the message of peace, compassion, righteousness, and truth, and to inspire the followers of the Sikh faith. His dedication to his mission was so intense that when his former employer, Daulat Khan, tried to hinder his third journey, Guru Nanak Dev did not deviate from his plan. He stated, "I cannot remain until my soul guides me otherwise."

According to Dhillon (2010), I am hearing a voice inside me urging me to travel, and I feel compelled to obey. This individual, Guru Nanak Dev, possessed an

original mindset and firmly believed in advancing ideas, thinking differently, and promoting social relevance. In order to spread the message of brotherhood and peace, Guru Nanak Dev embarked on extensive travels both within and outside the state. During his journeys, he made a point to visit various Hindu and Muslim places of worship. At that time, illiteracy was prevalent, and Guru Nanak Dev elucidated and depicted through his teachings the futility and senselessness of prevalent ritualistic and ascetic practices. He preached his new faith and mission at each location and center he visited.

By traveling extensively, Guru Nanak Dev connected with people at the grassroots level and spread his ideas far and wide, significantly enhancing the popularity of the Sikh faith. He employed an interactive approach to engage with individuals, using simple language and communication to persuade those he encountered. Additionally, Guru Nanak Dev established Sikh communities at the locations he visited, creating assembly places known as Dharamsalas where Sikh followers could gather for spiritual and religious gatherings.

In the Dharamsalas, a specific plan was followed. In the forenoon, Japji, which was his foremost composing, was recited. In the eventide, Sodar and Aarti were recited. Additionally, food was served to the hapless. The first known Centre established by Guru Nanak Dev was the residence of Sajjan, a darnel. Previously, Sajjan had been using the place to plunder innocent travellers. However, Guru evoked Sajjan's spiritual conscience through his discourse and transformed him into a real "Sajjan," meaning a thorough gentlemen in English. Despite oppositions, Guru Nanak Dev maintained politeness and created synergy. He carried the torch of truth during his voyages and provided enlightenment to individuals suffering from

hatred, falsity, greed, and hypocrisy.

He travelled and taught through pattern and principle on the banks of river Ganga. He cautioned people against false rites and superstitions in the part of Sun, where they offered water to their dead ascendants to quench their thirst. Instead, he directed them to follow the way of truth and enlightenment (Loehlin, 1958). He boldly broke the meaningless rites and traditions, both preaching and practicing his teachings. He possessed the courage to challenge the rulers of his time for their wrongdoings.

Guru Nanak Dev appealed to the people as equals, rather than as someone superior. He emphasized the significance of helping those in need and unfortunate. He personally provided assistance to the unfortunate and served them food. Even when working as a shopkeeper, he dedicated a significant portion of his earnings towards feeding the hungry and needy.

Guru Nanak Dev taught that helping the less fortunate through actions like feeding the hungry and providing clothing makes the giver receive God's grace. He strongly believed that these contributions should come from one's honest earnings. Guru Nanak Dev also stated that the recipients should not be greedy, but should only accept what is necessary to fulfill their needs. He emphasized the importance of sharing honestly and discouraged the idea of earning through unfair means and then giving a portion of it as charity or repentance. He encouraged people to engage in honorable work and condemned the exploitation of human and natural resources.

Guru Ji declared, "He entirely, O Nanak, knows the manner, who earns with the perspiration of the forehead and so portions it with others" (SGGS, p-1245). During one of his travels, he chose to

stay with Bhai Lalo, a craftsman from a low caste, because he made a living through his own labor and efforts. He refused the invitation of Malik Bhago, a rich landlord from a high caste who exploited the poor and committed atrocities against them. Guru Nanak Dev associated himself with the lowest of the low and never rejected or excluded people with unfavorable personalities. Instead, he worked to reform and transform them into honorable individuals (Dhillon, 2010).

He transformed into soft folk people like Sajjan, the darnel, Malik Bhago, the user of the hapless and the downtrodden, Nur Shah, the practician of black thaumaturgy, Kauda, the head-hunter, Duni Chand, the hoarder of wealth, to cite a few ( Ghatage,2005 ) Guru Nanak Dev gave the message of equality of world. He taught that God has created the existence and he is everyplace and in every being. So, one can non know apart people on the footing of caste and credo etc. when God has created them as peers.

The Guru introduced the concept of a community kitchen, where people of all castes and creeds would come together to eat without regard for societal hierarchy. According to the Guru, all human beings possessed the divine light and were equal. Only by suppressing one's pride and ego could one recognize this light in everyone. Guru Nanak Dev emphasized the importance of virtuous character and advised individuals to control their vices. Through self-reflection and personal fulfillment, vices such as pride, anger, greed, lust, and ego could be overcome.

He said, "See the brotherhood of all world as the highest order of Yogis; suppress your own mind, and suppress the universe" (SGGS,

p-6). He encouraged people everywhere to control their minds and refrain from evil practices. Our compulsive nature with self-love, greed, sensuous pleasures, and a materialistic mindset leads to a life and society filled with sadness and suffering (Tarlochan Singh, 1998). He was a leader of the masses, not just a particular social class. Guru Nanak Dev was compassionate and sensitive, but he was not swayed by emotions and sentiments. That is why he chose to pass on the command of Sikhism to Bhai Lehna, a devout Sikh, instead of his own sons, Baba Sri Chand and Baba Lakhmi Das. With this decision, he exemplified that a transfer of power should be based on one's character traits rather than simply familial lineage.

He desired the preservation of the core idea and beliefs so that the movement he initiated could endure in the future. Guru Nanak Dev both cultivated his land and continued his mission and teachings after his travels. He presented a model of righteous living where he encouraged his followers to fulfill their duties to their families and society, while also remaining constantly connected to God. Guru Nanak Dev asserts that one can lead an exemplary life as a homeowner (grihasti), engaging in everyday activities, yet remaining deeply spiritual and devoted to God.

The message advocates for Sikhs to fulfill their responsibilities towards their family and society while also staying connected to God. This is summarized as the Sikh's model of moral and ethical life. It is based on the teachings and life story of Guru Nanak Dev, compiled by Guru Angad Dev in the form of the Janam Sakhi. Guru Angad Dev also introduced the Gurmukhi

book and encouraged people to learn Punjabi, which was the common language at that time. To promote this, he started a school in Khadur Sahib to teach children the Gurmukhi alphabet. Guru Angad Dev instructed Bhai Gurdas to turn the Granth (scriptures) into a comprehensive volume.

Write in Gurmukhi characters the entire Bani of the Guru, which all may be able to read with ease. Homeowners engaged in day-to-day labor, yet seek knowledge, may analyze it with ease. Therefore, write down the Gurmukhi letters. From the above citation, it is clear that the holy Guru intended to convey divine knowledge, religious experience, and ethical ideas to the simple, working common people by composing the Bani in the popular language and writing it out in popular books. Guru Angad Dev played a crucial role in advancing Sikhism from its early stage to the next phase, establishing a Sikh community that was pious, educated, and enlightened.

Guru Angad Dev was committed to serving and caring for the entire world, not just his own followers. He emphasized the importance of building character rather than focusing on rituals and formalities. Guru Angad Dev encouraged his Sikhs to follow a path of enlightenment through service, good actions, devotion, and worship of one God. In his own unique way, Guru Angad Dev elevated Sikhism to its highest point. He was both a spiritual teacher and a man who took action. He believed in the need for harmony between thoughts and actions, as well as purity in life.

The message conveyed is that forcing someone to do something against their will does not demonstrate virtue or goodness. Only actions done willingly and freely are considered

honorable. People are judged by their actions, and they should strive to display goodness, rather than being distorted by their actions. When individuals desire something, they will attain it, and they will become a reflection of God. This idea is continued from Guru Nanak Dev's teachings.

Guru Angad Dev popularized the Gurmukhi language among the high class Hindus, who had previously only used Sanskrit. This language was specifically restricted to this elite group. However, by introducing Gurmukhi to the masses, Guru Angad Dev gave them their own distinct identity and enabled their growth and development without any hindrance. This act boosted the morale of the oppressed and ensured the unhindered progress and expansion of Sikhism. The Gurus' hymns, expressed in Gurmukhi, convey the true meaning and message of the Gurus without any biased interpretation.

Guru Angad Dev believed in the importance of education for society and worked towards promoting it. He established many schools to educate children and increase literacy rates. He also encouraged people to lead healthy lives, emphasizing that physical fitness is essential for achieving higher goals in life. To promote both physical and spiritual well-being, he initiated the tradition of Mall Akhara, where exercises were conducted.

Guru Angad Dev was known for being strict. During a time when women were not allowed to leave their homes, Guru Angad Dev granted his wife, Mata Khivi, equal status and freedom. Mata Khivi worked alongside Guru Angad Dev and expanded the role of women in the Guru's council. This was a unique and progressive role for women, as they were not typically seen as leaders in society. Guru Angad Dev continued the mission of the first Guru to

create a society without caste or class divisions, where no one was superior or inferior to others. He advised his followers to refrain from the vices of greed and selfishness, which would lead to encroaching upon the rights of others.

The establishment of a free community kitchen, known as langar, was initiated and expanded by Guru Angad Dev. His wife actively participated in managing and overseeing the operations of the community kitchen to promote the acceptance of social equality. Moreover, Guru Angad Dev aimed to reduce the gap between the wealthy and the poor. He imparted teachings to lead a righteous and fearless life, emphasizing the sole devotion to God rather than submitting to mankind. As an inspiration, he demonstrated his own actions and infused a renewed sense of purpose and resilience among those who were oppressed or less fortunate.

According to the SGGS (p-788), he proclaimed that those who possess the Fear of God are free from other fears, while those who lack the Fear of God are truly frightened. This mysterious truth is disclosed at the Court of the Lord. Guru Angad Dev led a life supported by twisting tough grass into strings for fingerstalls, rather than relying on the contributions of followers. A communal fund was established for offerings made by the followers.

Guru Angad Dev demonstrated the ethics of reputable labor and selfless service by donating all his earnings to the community kitchen. He traveled extensively and visited important spiritual places, spreading the principles of Sikhism as the torchbearer of the first Guru. By establishing new Sikhism centers, he consolidated and fortified its foundation, leading to the formation of a distinct religious identity. Moreover,

he compiled information about Guru Nanak Dev's life from Bhai Bala, the Guru's accompanist, and authored the initial biography of Guru Nanak Dev, thereby playing a crucial role in promoting his ideals. During this period, King Hamayun, the ruler at that time, paid a visit to seek the Guru's blessings.

Guru Angad Dev exhibited immense devotion and selfless service. Guru Nanak Dev chose him as his successor based on his unwavering commitment, dedication, perseverance, and patience. Numerous instances highlight Guru Angad Dev's superiority in demonstrating respect, loyalty, and devotion compared to Guru Nanak Dev's sons and other followers. In one such incident, when Guru Nanak Dev instructed his disciples and sons to carry three bundles of moist and muddy grass for his cattle and bisons, it was only Guru Angad Dev who dutifully obeyed and carried the grass bundles on his head, disregarding the dirt that would soil his clothes.

Guru Nanak Dev appointed Guru Angad Dev as his successor due to his devotion, and this tradition continued with the subsequent Gurus. The Gurus were chosen based on their spiritual energy and ability to fulfill the mission. Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, established the langar, a free community kitchen, and promoted the equality of all individuals. He also advocated against the practices of wearing a head covering and the ritual of sati, where a Hindu woman would burn herself alive on her husband's funeral pyre.

He was known for his commitment and devotion to serving the Guru. Guru Amar Das exemplified benevolence and kindness. His teachings were straightforward. He advocated, "Help others by giving good advice, setting a good example, and always having the welfare of

humanity in your heart" (Dhillon, 1999). He demonstrated the perfect way of leadership, emphasizing that a leader should always be there for their followers, guiding through principles and practice for the overall well-being of all. Guru Amar Das possessed excellent organizational skills and meticulously systemized the communal kitchen within the organization.

The text explains that it was mandatory for both followers and visitors to first obtain food from the free kitchen, langar, and then join the congregation, sangat. Even Emperor Akbar had to adhere to this rule. Emperor Akbar dined with the common man at langar and then was allowed to join the congregation and meet with the Guru. He was impressed by this system. Guru Amar Das convinced Akbar to eliminate toll-tax (pilgrim's tax) for non-Muslims when crossing the Yamuna and Ganga rivers, which Akbar agreed to do. Guru Amar Das established the Manji System as a methodical and organized way to spread Sikhism.

The Sikh fold countries were divided into 22 Manjis, with a local sermonizer in charge of each one. A group of 146 followers, including 52 adult females, were trained to meet the religious needs of the people. To spread the Gospel of Sikhism, sermonizers called Masands were appointed and sent throughout the country. The importance and code of conduct for these messengers were described as follows: A selfless servant who serves the True Guru and follows the True Guru's Will. The True Praise of God is the True Shabad, the Word of God; keep the True Lord in your mind. The Gurmukh speaks the True Word of Gurbani, and pride disappears from within.

He Himself is the Giver, and His actions are truly

genuine. He declares the True Word of the Shabad. The Gurmukh plants, and the Gurmukh earns; the Gurmukh encourages others to recite the Naam. He is always detached, filled with love for the True Lord, and in harmony with the Guru (SGGS, p-753). It was seen as a significant step towards decentralization.

Guru Amar Das elevated the status of women and banned practices such as SatiA (the immolation of a married woman on her husband's funeral pyre), Parrda (veiling to cover the face), female infanticide, and other immoralities. He strongly advocated for widow remarriage, which went against the norms of his time. His vision was to establish equal status for women and the common people, and he actively worked towards achieving it. Despite facing criticism from the elitist class for prohibiting baseless and biased rituals of the time, Guru Amar Das remained calm and composed. He consistently exhibited kindness and humility in all circumstances.

Once, when Datu, son of Guru Angad Dev, felt frustrated for not being chosen as the Guru, he kicked Guru Amar Das with his foot while he was seated on the Gurgaddi. Despite the physical pain, Guru Amar Das remained silent and did not show any signs of distress. Instead, he empathized with Datu, suggesting that his foot must have been hurt by his own hard bones. Throughout his life, Guru Amar Das consistently demonstrated compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others (Duggal, 2010). At the age of 62, Guru Amar Das took Guru Angad Dev as his spiritual guide and served him passionately and enthusiastically for twelve years, a devotion unparalleled in history.

He committed to providing fresh H2O for the Guru's ablutions every

morning directly from the river Beas, and always fulfilled this duty, regardless of rain or storm. His sole focus was on serving his Guru with unwavering enthusiasm and sincere dedication, without any hidden agenda. He epitomized the concept of selfless service. Guru Amar Das built Baoli (a deep well) at Goindwal Sahib, Punjab, featuring 84 steps, as he recognized that the water from the Beas river was unsuitable for human consumption.

Not only did this provide safe drinking water to the people, but it also contributed to the creation of a sustainable environment. Baoli at Goindwal became the first Sikh pilgrimage center in Sikhism's history, promoting the identity of the new religious movement. In 1574, Guru Ram Das founded the city of Amritsar.

The individual known as Guru Ram Das standardized the Sikh matrimony ceremonial, called the Anand Karaj, and emphasized the importance of anthem vocalizing, which remains significant in Sikh worship today. He played a key role in spreading Sikhism in North India and worked towards establishing an organized structure for Sikh society. Guru Ram Das possessed a straightforward and serious mindset, even as a young boy, and preferred to be in the company of holy men. He exhibited a generous spirit of service and delighted in displaying polite and refined behavior, making him beloved by all who interacted with him.

On 13th June, 1577, Guru Ram Das established Amritsar and urged Sikh devotees to contribute to the community kitchen and the construction of a sacred tank. The response was overwhelming. To gather funds for the construction and maintenance of the kitchen and the tank, the Guru sent his agents, known as masands, to various parts of

the country. Also referred to as Sacha Padshah, the Guru invited traders to settle around the city, which was gladly accepted due to its proximity to Lahore.

Guru Ram Das consistently maintained communication with the Manjis, and they became more effective and efficient under his guidance. As a result, the number of followers of the Sikh faith increased significantly. Guru Ram Das supported himself by selling poached grains but often displayed his generous and benevolent nature by freely giving them to those in need. This characteristic deeply impressed Guru Amar Das. Guru Ram Das had a very humble and gentle temperament. On one occasion, when Sri Chand, the son of Guru Nanak Dev, sarcastically asked why he had a long beard, Guru Ram Das responded by explaining that it was for cleaning his feet and then used it to dust Sri Chand's own feet.

Sri Chand was impressed and blessed Guru Ram Das for his humble and sincere nature, free from arrogance and self-importance (Ghatage, 2005). Guru Ram Das believed in and understood the importance of truthfulness, earnestness, and honesty. He always took care of Guru Amar Das' personal needs and was always ready to lend a helping hand whenever necessary. He won the hearts of everyone through his hard work and devotion, including that of Guru Amar Das.

His unwavering dedication led to him marrying Guru's younger daughter, Bibi Bhani. Despite becoming the successor to Guru Amar Das, his devotion remained unchanged. From the time of Guru Nanak, efforts had been made to liberate Hindu society from the customs and control of the priestly classes. The majority of people were trapped in superstitions, while privileged classes took

advantage of their ignorance.

Guru Ram Das brought about social reforms, particularly in the wedding ceremony, making it simple and sacred. He created a lengthy poem in four parts to be recited during the ceremony procession. In 1604, Guru Arjan Dev compiled the Adi Granth. He constructed a magnificent Gurudwara in the center of the holy tank that was built by Sri Guru Ram Das. This Gurudwara was named Harmandir Sahib but later came to be known as the Golden Temple by the English due to its gold plating by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

He was the composer of Sukhmani Sahib, the supplication for peace, and initiated the practice of giving a tithe, which involved donating ten percent of one's net incomes for community purposes. Guru Arjan Dev became the first Sikh Guru to be martyred.