WHO IS GURU NANAK IN THE SIKH RELIGION?
Born in 1469, in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan, Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the first guru and founder of the Sikh religion – the fifth-largest religion in the world. Born into a Hindu family of a high caste, Guru Nanak had a revelatory experience at a young age, denounced his faith and caste, and realized that “there is one God and one human race.”
He traveled extensively to spread his belief that we can find the divinity within each of us through prayer, humility, service, meditation, and virtuous living. He was a poet, a mystic, a philosopher, and a singer who denounced ritualism as well as discrimination against women and those of lower socioeconomic status. Guru Nanak’s followers became known as Sikhs, which means seekers of truth.
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GURU NANAK’S TEACHINGS IN SIKHISM
Guru Nanak impressed upon his followers the oneness of all things. In order to achieve peace and become closer to God during their temporary time on Earth, Sikhs believe we must work at and practice certain important behaviors. Guru Nanak taught his followers to live honestly, treat everyone equally regardless of gender, religion, etc., respect the environment, and give back to the community through service.
THE BASICS OF SIKHISM
Sikhism is the world’s fifth-largest religion with more than 25 million Sikhs worldwide. The Sikh Gurus, known as spiritual guides or teachers, established the religion. Guru Nanak was the first Guru and was born in the 15th century in the Punjab region of India. Sikhs believe in the oneness of all beings and the equality of everyone.
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