Who Founded Sikhism?

The Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji - The Founder of Sikhism

HassanNovember 4, 2023

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Table of Contents

Who Founded Sikhism?

Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469 in the village of Talwandi, which is now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan.

Introduction

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that originated in the Indian subcontinent during the 15th century. It is a faith that emphasizes equality, devotion, and social justice. At the heart of Sikhism is its founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, a spiritual leader whose teachings laid the foundation for this unique religion. In this article, we will delve into the life and contributions of Guru Nanak, exploring his journey to enlightenment and the establishment of Sikhism.

The Life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born in 1469 in the village of Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in modern-day Pakistan, was the first of ten Gurus who would guide the Sikh community. His early life was marked by a profound sense of spirituality, even as a child, he displayed an inquisitive nature, asking questions about the purpose of life and the existence of God. These inquiries foreshadowed his future role as a spiritual leader.

Nanak’s travels, often referred to as “udasis,” took him to many parts of the Indian subcontinent and beyond, including places like Mecca, Tibet, and Sri Lanka. During these journeys, he interacted with people of various religious backgrounds and cultures, shaping his worldview and inspiring his teachings.

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Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings revolved around the concept of “Oneness of God” or “Ik Onkar,” emphasizing the idea of a single, formless, and universal God. He rejected the caste system and advocated for equality among all human beings. Nanak’s core message was that everyone is equal in the eyes of God, regardless of their social status, caste, or gender.

Key teachings and principles of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Sikhism include:

Naam Simran: Meditation and remembrance of God’s name as a path to spiritual enlightenment.
Seva (Selfless Service): A commitment to helping others and serving the community, highlighting the importance of social responsibility.
Equality: The rejection of caste-based discrimination and the promotion of gender equality.
Honest Living: Emphasis on earning an honest living and avoiding greed and materialism.
Rejection of Rituals: Guru Nanak opposed empty rituals and instead encouraged a genuine and heartfelt connection with God.

Legacy and the Formation of Sikhism

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings gained a dedicated following, and he appointed Guru Angad Dev Ji as his successor. This tradition of passing the spiritual leadership from one Guru to the next continued for ten Gurus, culminating in Guru Gobind Singh Ji. These ten Gurus collectively laid the foundation for Sikhism, and their teachings were compiled into the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib.

The emergence of the Khalsa in 1699, initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, marked a significant moment in Sikh history. The Khalsa was a community of baptized Sikhs who adhered to a distinct code of conduct, including wearing the five Ks (Kesh, Kara, Kanga, Kachera, and Kirpan) and pledging to fight for justice and equality.

Conclusion

The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, left an indelible mark on the religious and social landscape of the Indian subcontinent. His teachings emphasized equality, devotion, and service to humanity. Through his spiritual journey and interactions with people of diverse backgrounds, he formulated the principles that would become the core beliefs of Sikhism. Guru Nanak’s legacy lives on through the Sikh community, and his teachings continue to inspire people to this day.