key term - Guru Nanak

Definition

Guru Nanak is the founder of Sikhism, born in 1469 in present-day Pakistan, and is revered as the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. His teachings emphasize the oneness of God, equality among all people, and the importance of living a truthful and honest life. As a central figure in Sikh scripture and worship, Guru Nanak's hymns and messages are preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, which serves as a guide for spiritual and moral conduct.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Guru Nanak's birth is celebrated during the festival of Gurpurab, which is a significant event in the Sikh calendar.
2. He traveled extensively throughout South Asia and beyond, spreading his teachings and engaging with people of different faiths.
3. Guru Nanak introduced the concept of 'Ik Onkar', meaning 'There is only one God', which is fundamental to Sikh beliefs.
4. His teachings also laid the foundation for the values of community service and social justice that are central to Sikh practices today.
5. Guru Nanak appointed Guru Angad as his successor, establishing a line of Gurus that would continue to shape Sikhism until the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.

Review Questions

• How did Guru Nanak's teachings influence the core beliefs of Sikhism?
  • Guru Nanak's teachings significantly shaped the core beliefs of Sikhism by introducing the idea of monotheism with 'Ik Onkar', which emphasizes that there is only one God. He preached equality among all individuals, rejecting caste distinctions and promoting social justice. This focus on living an honest and truthful life has become foundational for Sikhs, guiding their spiritual practices and interactions within society.
• Discuss the significance of Guru Nanak's travels in relation to his role as a religious leader.
  • Guru Nanak's extensive travels were crucial in spreading his teachings and establishing a dialogue with various religious communities. By engaging with people from different backgrounds, he fostered understanding and respect among diverse faiths. His journeys not only helped disseminate Sikh philosophy but also illustrated his commitment to unity and inclusiveness, core values that define Sikhism today.
• Evaluate how Guru Nanak's establishment of a succession plan through appointing subsequent Gurus shaped the development of Sikhism.
  • Guru Nanak’s establishment of a succession plan by appointing Guru Angad as his successor created a structured leadership within Sikhism that ensured the continuity of his teachings. This decision laid the groundwork for a series of nine additional Gurus who further developed and codified Sikh beliefs and practices. As each Guru contributed unique insights while remaining true to the original teachings, this succession maintained unity among followers and solidified Sikh identity over time, culminating in the creation of the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru.

Related terms

Guru Granth Sahib: The central religious scripture of Sikhism, consisting of hymns and writings by Guru Nanak and other Sikh Gurus, as well as Hindu and Muslim saints.

Langar:

The community kitchen in Sikh gurdwaras that serves free meals to everyone, regardless of background, reflecting Guru Nanak's teachings on equality and service.

Sikhism:

A monotheistic religion founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak in the Punjab region of South Asia, emphasizing equality, social justice, and devotion to one God.