In an era marked by increasing divisions along racial, religious, and social lines, the profound teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji resonate more deeply than ever. Central to his philosophy is the concept of ‘Ek Onkar’, a declaration of the oneness of God that transcends all human-made barriers, reminding us of our shared existence and interconnectedness.
Guru Nanak’s message is elegantly simple yet profoundly impactful: there is one God, manifested in countless names and forms. This universal truth calls for recognizing our common humanity, urging us to look beyond superficial differences such as race, religion, caste, creed, or social status. In a world where the phrase “My God, your God” often fuels division, Guru Nanak’s teaching serves as a unifying force, encouraging mutual respect and understanding.
Modern advancements have made intercontinental travel more accessible, allowing us to witness the rich tapestry of global cultures firsthand. During a recent visit to Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, the Universal Temple, also known as the Temple of All Religions, stood as a testament to this unity. Created by local artist Ildar Khanov, the temple incorporates architectural elements from sixteen different faiths within a single structure. This harmonious blend of diverse religious symbols not only captivates the eye but also uplifts the spirit, illustrating the beauty of coexistence.
Such experiences reinforce the wisdom found in the Guru Granth Sahib, where Bhagat Kabir articulates, “Awwal Allah Noor Upaya, Kudrat Ke Sab Bandey/Ek Noor Te Sab Jag Upajya, Koun Bhalley Ko Mandey/Loga Bharam Na Bhoolau Bhai.” Translated, this means, “Allah created the Light and made all mortal beings; from the One Light, came the entire universe. So who is good, and who is bad? People, do not get deluded and meander.” These words emphasize the unity of creation and the futility of categorizing people based on arbitrary distinctions.
Applying these timeless principles in our daily lives requires conscious effort to reject divisive notions. It means seeing others as fellow human beings first, without confining them to labels defined by caste, creed, or religion. In India, secularism has traditionally been about respecting diverse religious beliefs. As children, many of us visited friends’ homes without concern for their religious or social backgrounds, maintaining a pure, unprejudiced camaraderie. Preserving this “childlike” innocence is essential to preventing unnecessary boundaries from forming in adulthood.
Guru Nanak also highlighted the importance of acknowledging multiple paths to the divine. While he advocated for the diligent and devoted practice of one’s faith, he was equally critical of religious leaders who failed to embody true spiritual values. This balance underscores the need for both personal devotion and ethical leadership in fostering a harmonious society.
The Sikh Gurus taught that true peace and happiness arise from three core practices: ‘Naam Japna’ (meditation on God’s name), ‘Kirat Karni’ (honest work), and ‘Vand Chhakna’ (sharing with others). These principles cultivate humility and selflessness, enabling individuals to recognize the divine in every person and live in harmony with one another. Ultimately, happiness stems from being at peace with oneself and extending that peace to the world.
In seeking the divine within us, we find inner peace that naturally extends outward, fostering tolerance and forgiveness. Embracing Guru Nanak’s vision of oneness encourages us to move beyond our differences and celebrate our shared humanity. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, his teachings offer a beacon of hope, guiding us toward a more unified and compassionate global community.
