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Sikhism
Sikhism is a monotheistic religious conviction whose origin is in India’s Punjab region. The adherents of this faith, who form the fifth largest religion in the world, regard Guru Nanak as its founder with other spiritual leaders transferring his teachings to subsequent generations. The followers of this system of belief are Sikhs with their spiritual framework being the Gurmat (Kerner and Steve 93). An analysis of Guru Nanak’s existence illustrates a peculiar philosophy regarding his perception of God as well as other sacred matters. This discussion seeks to expound on the life of Guru Nanak’s life in relation to Sikhism with the argument statement being about his perception of God.
To start with, Guru Nanak believed that God is an incomprehensible being present in all religious convictions. According to his ideology, worshipping this formless yet indestructible being should be the focus of all human beings regardless of their spiritual principles. His theory of worship included reading the scriptures publicly and reflecting on the content of His word (Nirmala 110). Moreover, he emphasized the need to follow the instructions of gurus and other religious leaders since they are representatives of God on earth. To him, this obedience is a way of worshipping God selflessly.
Guru Nanak also condemned the principles of egotism in the society. According to his teachings, the personal drive of maintaining one’s opinions and status at the expense of other people’s wellbeing is the main cause of most problems experienced in the society. To expound on this element, he warned his adherents on the dangers of hypocrisy and selfishness in the maintenance of God’s principles. He believed that these vices differed with God’s will on earth (Raina 29). These teachings concurred with his belief that God is a supreme being and no human being can imitate His power.
His credence in the oneness of God sought to discourage the practice of worshiping many gods as promoted by the ancient Hinduism (Mann 59). He emphasized that God always shows love and compassion to his people. This is because He operates without exemplifying any form of fear or hatred. He also perceived God as an omnipotent being who comprehends every event on earth before its inception and is in control of all creatures and activities. Additionally, this power enables God to listen to the undisclosed desires of all human beings and award his followers with all sorts of blessings.
Furthermore, Guru Nanak believed in a strong connection between God and the human soul. Based on his viewpoint, all human beings have a heavenly spark with the ability to influence God’s decisions regarding their lives. For this reason, all individuals should embrace the ultimate goal of molding their lives according to His will. This is because a perfect existence wins God’s grace. Such an individual escapes the brutal ensnare of life and death by reuniting with God in great happiness (Bhogal 67). However, one has to praise Him in a selfless manner by following His principles at all times in order to benefit from this compassionate characteristic of God.
Based on the
arguments in this paper, it is evident that Guru Nanak aimed at improving the
wellbeing of all individuals in his community. He did not agree with the
practice of worshipping several gods as promoted by ancient Hinduism since it
increased the misery of its followers through the numerous superstitions
supported by the religion. His perception of God encouraged Sikhs to live in
accordance with God’s will in order to benefit from His loving and
compassionate nature. His teachings highlight God as a supreme being who is
full of mercy, grace, and love for His people.
Annotated Bibliography
Mann, Gurinder S. Sikhism. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2004. Print.
This book has a detailed discussion regarding the origin of Sikhism in terms of its practices, beliefs, and developments. Its content is useful in compiling Guru Nanak’s view of God since the author has constantly highlighted his philosophies and beliefs in the history of Sikhism. For this reason, this passage by Mann contains crucial information helpful in the compilation of a comprehensive argument.
Kerner, Stuart, and Steve Clarke. Sikhism. London: Hodder Education, 2012. Print.
In this text, Kerner and Steve offer a broad overview of Sikhism in a manner that suits the religious and philosophical needs of individuals in all age brackets. A study of this book enables one to understand the principles governing this religious conviction as well as its origin. In the presentation of this argument, this text is helpful in explaining the main principles of Sikhism as promoted by Guru Nanak and subsequent religious leaders.
Nirmala, Kumāra. Sikh Philosophy and Religion: 11th Guru Nanak Memorial Lectures. Elgin, Ill: New Dawn Press, Inc, 2006. Print.
This book contains the content of Guru Nanak’s teachings in Punjabi University Patiala in 1977. The philosophy presented in this text acts as a major landmark in the spiritual journey of Guru Nanak. It contains various arguments promoted by Guru Nanak with regard to God’s attributes. For this reason, this book is helpful in expounding Guru Nanak’s perception of God.
Raina, Amrit K. Educational Philosophy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Chandigarh: Lokgeet Parkashan, 2001. Print.
In this text, Raina presents a detailed analysis of Guru Nanak’s ideologies in relation to Sikhism. Its substance is helpful in discussing Guru Nanak’s view of God. For this reason, most of the arguments highlighted in this paper concur with the discussions in this book.
Bhogal, Balbinder S. Nonduality and Skilful Means in Guru Nanak: Hermeneutics of the Word. London: University of London, 2001. Print.
This book highlights the main principles of Sikhism as promoted by Guru Nanak. The author of this all-inclusive passage discusses the philosophies of Guru Nanak. This makes it a crucial source in the discussion of Guru Nanak’s perception of God.