Nanak’s teachings can be found in the Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib, as a vast collection of revelatory verses recorded in Gurmukhi.
From these some common principles seem discernible. Firstly a supreme
Godhead who although incomprehensible, manifests in all major
religions, the Singular "Doer" and formless. It is described as the
indestructible (undying) form.
Nanak describes the dangers of egotism (haumai- "I am") and calls upon devotees to engage in worship through the word of God. Naam,
implies God, the Reality, mystical word or formula to recite or
meditate upon (shabad in Gurbani), divine order (hukam) and at places
divine teacher (guru) and guru’s instructions)[21]
and singing of God’s qualities, discarding doubt in the process.
However, such worship must be selfless (sewa). The word of God, cleanses
the individual to make such worship possible. This is related to the
revelation that God is the Doer and without God there is no other. Nanak
warned against hypocrisy and falsehood saying that these are pervasive
in humanity and that religious actions can also be in vain. It may also
be said that ascetic practices are disfavoured by Nanak, who suggests
remaining inwardly detached whilst living as a householder.
Through popular tradition, Nanak’s teaching is understood to be practised in three ways:
- Vaṇḍ Chakkō: Sharing with others, helping those with less who are in need
- Kirat Karō: Earning/making a living honestly, without exploitation or fraud
- Naam Japna: Meditating on God's name to control your 5 evils to eliminate suffering and live a happy life.
Nanak put the greatest emphasis on the worship of the Word of God (Naam Japna).[21]
One should follow the direction of awakened individuals (Gurmukh or God
willed) rather than the mind (state of Manmukh- being led by self
will)- the latter being perilous and leading only to frustration.
Reforms that occurred in the institution and both Godhead and Devotion, are seen as transcending any religious consideration or divide, as God is not separate from any individual.
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