Gurū Nānak (15 April 1469 – 22 September 1539), also known as Bābā Nānak ('Father Nānak'), was an Indian spiritual teacher, mystic, and poet, recognized as the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.
Nanak is believed to have traveled extensively across Asia, spreading the message of Ik Onkar (ੴ, 'One God'), who resides within all his creations and embodies the eternal Truth. Through this concept, he established a unique spiritual, social, and political platform centered on equality, fraternal love, goodness, and virtue.
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| Personal life | |
| Born | Nanak 15 April 1469 (Katak Pooranmashi, according to Sikh tradition) |
| Died | 22 September 1539 (aged 70) Kartarpur, Mughal Empire (present-day Punjab, Pakistan) |
| Resting place | Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Kartarpur, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Spouse | Mata Sulakhani |
| Children | Sri Chand Lakhmi Das |
| Parent(s) | Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta |
| Known for |
|
| Other names | First Master Peer Balagdaan (in Afghanistan) Nanakachryaya (in Sri Lanka) Nanak Lama (in Tibet) Guru Rinpoche (in Sikkim and Bhutan) Nanak Rishi (in Nepal) Nanak Peer (in Iraq) Vali Hindi (in Saudi Arabia) Nanak Vali (in Egypt) Nanak Kadamdar (in Russia) Baba Foosa (in China) |
| Religious life | |
| Religion | Sikhism |
| Religious career | |
| Based in | Kartarpur |
| Period in office | c. 1500–1539 |
| Successor | Guru Angad |
Nanak’s teachings are preserved in the form of 974 poetic hymns (shabda) in the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib. Some of his significant prayers include Japji Sahib, Asa di Var ('Ballad of Hope'), and Sidh Gosht ('Discussion with the Siddhas'). In Sikhism, it is believed that the divine spirit of Nanak’s sanctity and religious authority was passed on to each of the subsequent nine Gurus when the Guruship was transferred to them. Nanak's birthday is celebrated annually as Guru Nanak Gurpurab across India.
Birth
Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469 in Rāi Bhoi Dī Talvaṇḍī, which is present-day Nankana Sahib in Punjab, Pakistan, within the Lahore province of the Delhi Sultanate. While the majority of traditional biographies, or janamsakhis, suggest his birth occurred during the third day of the bright lunar fortnight in the month of Baisakh (April), some accounts claim his birth happened in the Indian month of Kārtik (November), referred to as Kattak in Punjabi. Guru Nanak was born into the Khatri Punjabi clan, specifically the Bedi Khatri sub-clan, a lineage shared by all Sikh Gurus.
Many janamsakhis (including the Puratan and Miharban accounts) also note his birth in Baisakh month of the Samvat 1526 calendar. However, a later version of the Gurbilas Patashahi 6 written in 1718, which is also attributed to Bhai Mani Singh, states that Nanak was born on the full moon day of Katak, contradicting other records.
Guru Nanak passed away on the 10th day of the Asauj month in Samvat 1596, corresponding to 22 September 1539, at the age of 70 years, 5 months, and 7 days. This supports the earlier accounts that he was indeed born in the month of Vaisakh (April) rather than Kattak (November). The Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib commemorates the site of Guru Nanak's birth.
Kattak Birthdate
While Guru Nanak's birth is traditionally celebrated on 15 April (Vaisakh month), there is a notable shift in the celebration to the full moon day of Kattak (November), which came to be widely recognized by the Sikh community. This shift likely occurred around the mid-19th century, with the first documented celebration on the full moon of Kattak taking place in Nankana Sahib in 1868.
There are several theories behind the adoption of the Kattak birthdate. One possibility is that it may correspond to Nanak's spiritual enlightenment or "spiritual birth" in 1496, as suggested in historical texts like the Dabestan-e Mazaheb. Additionally, some sources like the Bala Janamsakhi—the only Janamsakhi to mention the Kattak date—assert that Nanak was born on 20 October 1469, based on a horoscope obtained from Nanak's uncle, Lalu. However, this account is disputed due to the sectarian nature of the Handali writers, who had a different theological perspective.
The tradition of Kattak birth is also supported by several Sikh writings, including:
- Bhai Gurdas: In his writings, Bhai Gurdas speaks of Nanak obtaining omniscience on the full moon of the Kattak month, highlighting its significance.
- Bhatt Vahis: Sikh chronicles from eyewitnesses also note that Guru Nanak was born on the full moon of Kattak.
- Gurbilas Patashahi 6 (1718), Meham Parkash (1776), and Kesar Singh Chibber’s Bansavalinama (1769): These records confirm the Kattak birthdate.
- Other Janamsakhis: Various 18th-century Janamsakhis and texts, such as the Nanak Chandrodaya Sanskrit Janamsakhi (1797), consistently mention the Kattak full moon as the date of Nanak's birth.
In addition, historian Max Arthur Macauliffe (1909) suggests that the celebration on Kattak Purnima (full moon of Kattak) was chosen because the Vaisakh month already hosted numerous festivals, and holding Nanak's celebration at that time would have clashed with other activities. Kattak, coming after Diwali and before the winter harvest, provided a more convenient time for the rural population to attend and contribute to the celebrations, ensuring larger gatherings and donations for the Sikh shrines.
Thus, the observance of Guru Nanak's birth on the full moon of Kattak, although not universally accepted, became a significant practice for the Sikh community over time.
Family and Early Life
Guru Nanak was born to Kalyan Chand Das Bedi (commonly known as Mehta Kalu) and Mata Tripta, both of whom were Hindu Khatris and worked as merchants. His father, Mehta Kalu, also held the position of a local patwari (accountant) in Talwandi, overseeing the collection of crop revenue. Nanak's paternal grandfather was Shiv Ram Bedi, and his great-grandfather was Ram Narayan Bedi.
From an early age, Nanak was recognized for his divine grace and spiritual awareness. At just five years old, he showed an interest in divine subjects, and at seven, he was enrolled in the village school, where he displayed remarkable insight. A famous story recounts how, as a young child, Nanak astounded his teacher by describing the symbolism of the first letter of the alphabet, relating it to the concept of the oneness of God. Additionally, there are miraculous tales about Nanak's childhood, such as one where a tree's shadow is said to have protected his sleeping head from the sun or a cobra sheltering him from the heat.
Nanak's only sister, Nanaki, was five years older than him. In 1475, she married and moved to Sultanpur, where her husband Jai Ram worked at the storehouse of the Delhi Sultanate's Lahore governor, Daulat Khan. It was through her that Nanak moved to Sultanpur around the age of 16 and began working at the modikhana (a storehouse for non-cash revenue).
As a young man, Nanak married Sulakhani, the daughter of Mūl Chand and Chando Raṇi, in 1487 in Batala. They had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakhmi Chand (or Lakhmi Das). Nanak lived in Sultanpur until about 1500, during which time he likely gained an understanding of governmental systems, reflected in his hymns.
Final Years
Around the age of 55, Nanak moved to Kartarpur, where he lived until his death in September 1539. During his time in Kartarpur, Nanak traveled on short journeys to various centers of Nath yogis and Sufi communities, including Achal, Pakpattan, and Multan. By the time of his death, he had gathered a following in the Punjab region, and his disciples were referred to as Kartārīs—meaning "the people of Kartarpur."
Before his death, Nanak appointed Bhai Lehna as his successor and renamed him Guru Angad, signifying a deep spiritual connection. Guru Nanak passed away on 22 September 1539 at the age of 70. According to Sikh tradition, when his followers attempted to perform his final rites, they found only a heap of flowers beneath the sheet that had covered his body, leading to the belief that his physical body had disappeared. The event marked the continuation of Nanak’s spiritual teachings, which would eventually blossom into Sikhism.
Odysseys (Udasis)
Guru Nanak's spiritual journeys, known as Udasis, were an important part of his life, during which he traveled extensively in search of spiritual wisdom. These journeys are sometimes referred to as his odysseys, not to be confused with the religious Udasi sect, which was founded later by his son, Sri Chand.
Nanak's travels are said to have taken place during the first quarter of the 16th century, starting around 1496 when he was 27 years old. According to various sources, he embarked on a 30-year period of travel, visiting many regions in South Asia and beyond. He is believed to have visited several significant Hindu and Muslim pilgrimage centers across the world, referred to as "nau-khand" or "nine regions of the earth." Among these destinations, Mount Sumeru in Indian mythology, Mecca, Baghdad, Achal Batala, and Multan are mentioned in several accounts. During these journeys, Nanak is said to have engaged in debates on religious ideas, promoting his message of unity and oneness.
The stories of Nanak's travels became widely popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, and there are many variations of these narratives. Some modern accounts claim that he visited Tibet, parts of South Asia, and even Arabia. The 19th-century Puratan Janamsakhi suggests that Nanak also visited the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya around 1510–1511 CE and traveled to the Sylhet region in Bengal in 1508. Additionally, some versions state that he went to the Middle East, with mentions of places like Jerusalem, Mecca, Vatican, Azerbaijan, and Sudan.
Disputes
The authenticity of the hagiographic details surrounding Guru Nanak's travels is a subject of ongoing dispute. Modern scholars question the validity of these stories, as early Sikh texts do not contain accounts of Nanak's extensive journeys. Scholars such as Callewaert and Snell (1994) note that these travel stories appear only in later texts, particularly after Guru Nanak's death, and continue to evolve over time. The Puratan Janamsakhi, written centuries after his passing, describes four missionary journeys, which differ in detail from other versions, such as the Miharban account.
In particular, the famous story of Nanak’s journey to Baghdad is widely debated. While some scholars claim that an inscription on a stone in Baghdad, supposedly dating back to 1511–1512, commemorates Nanak’s visit, other scholars argue that this inscription is from the 19th century and cannot be considered reliable evidence. Furthermore, there is no mention of Nanak in other Middle Eastern historical records or inscriptions from the same era. Similarly, no further inscriptions have been found or verified to support claims of his travels in the Middle East.
The embellishment of stories surrounding Guru Nanak’s travels, along with tales of miracles and his body vanishing after death, mirrors similar legend traditions found in Sufi literature and Hindu and Buddhist mythologies. These additions, according to some scholars, may have been influenced by the religious and cultural narratives of the time, resulting in the blending of various mythological and historical elements in the Janamsakhis.
Teachings and Legacy of Guru Nanak
Guru Nanak's teachings form the foundation of Sikhism, and his wisdom is preserved in the Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib. These teachings emphasize spirituality, equality, and selfless service, with an overarching focus on the oneness of God and the importance of living an honest and righteous life.
There are three competing theories about the nature of Guru Nanak’s teachings:
Revelation from God: According to the first theory, as suggested by scholars like Cole and Sambhi, Guru Nanak's teachings were revelations directly from God. In this view, Sikhism was not a social protest movement nor an attempt to reconcile Hinduism and Islam, but rather a divine revelation guiding humanity.
Guru as an Illumined Soul: The second theory suggests that Guru Nanak was not a prophet or incarnation of God, but rather an enlightened soul, a Guru. This idea is articulated by various scholars, such as Singha (2009), and aligns with Sikhism's belief in the Guru's role as a spiritual teacher, guiding others to inner realization without the concept of divine incarnation.
Guru Nanak as the Incarnation of God: The third theory, supported by many Sikhs and references in Guru Granth Sahib, holds that Guru Nanak was indeed an incarnation of God. Bhai Gurdas, in his writings, asserts that the Guru and God are one. The Guru is seen as the true master, with a direct connection to the divine, and is revered as the manifestation of God on earth.
Core Teachings of Guru Nanak
Direct Access to God: Nanak emphasized that every human being can have direct access to God through meditation, without the need for rituals or priests. This concept democratized spirituality, making it accessible to all individuals regardless of their social status.
Equality of All People: Guru Nanak preached the oneness of humanity and the equality of all people, irrespective of their caste, religion, or gender. This teaching laid the foundation for Sikhism's strong emphasis on social justice and equality.
Bhakti (Devotion): Nanak and the subsequent Sikh Gurus stressed the importance of bhakti—devotion to God. This devotion is not just limited to worship but is expressed through living a truthful, honest, and active life, engaging in selfless service, and treating all people with respect and kindness.
The Balance of Life: Nanak taught that the spiritual life and worldly life are interconnected. He encouraged living an active and creative life grounded in truthfulness, fidelity, self-control, and purity. The goal of life is not only to seek spiritual enlightenment but also to be an active and compassionate participant in the world.
Three Pillars of Sikh Practice (as taught by Guru Nanak)
Vand Shhako (Share and Consume): This teaching emphasizes the importance of sharing with others, especially with those in need. Nanak encouraged his followers to live selflessly and share their wealth and resources, creating a community where all people can eat together and support each other.
Kirat Karo (Work Honestly): Guru Nanak taught that one should earn an honest living through ethical work, free from exploitation or fraud. This teaching advocates for integrity in all aspects of life and emphasizes the value of hard work.
Naam Japo (Recite His Name): The practice of meditation on God’s name (Naam) is central to Sikh spirituality. By repeating God’s name, individuals can feel God's presence and control the "five thieves" of the human personality—lust, anger, greed, attachment, and ego.
Legacy
Guru Nanak's legacy continues to shape the Sikh faith, guiding Sikhs to live a life of devotion, equality, and service. His teachings inspired a movement that grew into one of the world’s major religions, with millions of followers around the world. His emphasis on social justice, equality, and the oneness of humanity remains central to Sikh philosophy, and his teachings are a source of spiritual guidance for Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike.
Influences on Guru Nanak and Sikhism
Guru Nanak’s teachings were influenced by a wide range of religious traditions, philosophies, and practices prevalent in 15th-century India. These influences include the Bhakti, Sant, and Sufi movements, as well as elements of Hinduism and Islam. Sikhism, while originating as a distinct faith, was shaped by the religious and spiritual context of its time.
1. Bhakti and Sant Traditions
Guru Nanak’s teachings are closely related to the Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion to a formless God (nirguna). The Bhakti saints, including Kabir and Ravidas, sought to transcend ritualism and focus on the inner devotion to God. Sikhism shares many ideals with the Bhakti movement, such as the rejection of caste distinctions and the emphasis on devotion over formal rituals. However, Sikhism diverged from certain Bhakti teachings, particularly those of Kabir and Ravidas, in its understanding of God and its more institutionalized structure.
The Sant tradition, which preceded the Bhakti movement, also influenced Nanak. This tradition focused on devotion to a single divine being, and Nanak, like the Sants, rejected polytheism and idol worship, advocating for a direct, personal connection with God.
2. Islamic and Sufi Influences
Guru Nanak’s teachings also reflect the Islamic and Sufi spiritual traditions. Sufism emphasizes the personal experience of God and mystical practices. Nanak incorporated the Sufi ideas of divine love, selflessness, and service, but with a focus on non-ritualistic spirituality and the rejection of traditional hierarchical religious structures. The Guru often critiqued both Hindu and Muslim rituals, emphasizing a more universal approach to the divine.
In particular, the concept of the oneness of God (Ek Onkar) in Sikhism closely parallels the Islamic principle of Tawhid, the absolute oneness of God. However, Sikhism maintains its distinct identity, rejecting certain Islamic practices such as the requirement for formal prayer rituals and fasting.
3. The Baháʼí Faith
Guru Nanak's teachings are also recognized by the Baháʼí Faith. In a 1985 letter, the Universal House of Justice, the governing body of the Baháʼí community, praised Nanak as a "saint of the highest order" and acknowledged his efforts to reconcile Hinduism and Islam. According to the Baháʼí perspective, Guru Nanak played a significant role in promoting peace and unity among religious communities, an idea central to Baháʼí teachings.
4. Hindu Influence
Guru Nanak was highly influential among Punjabi and Sindhi Hindus, many of whom follow the Nanakpanthi tradition, a movement that incorporates Guru Nanak's teachings. His rejection of caste distinctions and the emphasis on devotion to the formless God resonated with Hindus, particularly in regions where the Bhakti movement had already gained prominence.
5. Tibetan Buddhism and Bon
Interestingly, Guru Nanak is also revered in Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions. Some Tibetans believe that Nanak was an incarnation of Padmasambhava, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism. This belief is likely due to a blending of religious narratives, as both figures are associated with spiritual wisdom and the transformation of society through spiritual teachings. Tibetan pilgrims have visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar, and there are references to Guru Nanak in Tibetan texts that suggest a syncretic blending of Buddhist and Sikh traditions.
6. Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community regards Guru Nanak as a Muslim saint, believing that his teachings were influenced by Sufism. They argue that Nanak sought to bring out the "real teachings" of Islam, especially in the context of the conflict between Hindus and Muslims during his time. The Ahmadiyya community holds that Guru Nanak's teachings represent a reconciliation of the best aspects of both religions.
Guru Nanak’s Influence on Popular Culture and Pilgrimage Sites
Guru Nanak’s legacy continues to be reflected in various forms of popular culture, such as films and documentaries. A notable example is the 2015 Punjabi movie Nanak Shah Fakir, which dramatizes his life and teachings.
Guru Nanak's teachings and the places he visited have become major pilgrimage sites for Sikhs and others influenced by his teachings. These sites span across India, Pakistan, and even beyond, to places like Iran, Iraq, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia. Some of the most prominent pilgrimage sites include:
- Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan (his birthplace)
- Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan (where he passed away)
- Gurdwara Ber Sahib in Sultanpur Lodhi, India
- Gurudwara Nanak Lama in Sikkim, India
- Gurudwara Guru Nanak Datan Sahib in Odisha, India
These sites are a testament to Guru Nanak’s lasting spiritual and cultural impact on not just Sikhs, but also many other religious and cultural communities.
References
- Guru Nanak (2025) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Guru-Nanak (Accessed: 15 January 2025).
- Guru Nanak (no date) Site Search. Available at: https://pluralism.org/guru-nanak (Accessed: 15 January 2025).
- Home - Embassy of India: Finland (no date) Embassy of India. Available at: https://www.indembhelsinki.gov.in/celebrate-550th-Birth-Anniversary.php (Accessed: 15 January 2025).
- Manager, A. (2018) IK Onkar! the message of unity and fraternal love, Organiser. Available at: https://organiser.org/2018/11/23/122115/bharat/ik-onkar-the-message-of-unity-and-fraternal-love/ (Accessed: 15 January 2025).
- Singh, S. (no date) Guru Nanak Dev Ji: First sikh guru: Sikhism, ../../../top-religions-of-the-world/sikhism/sikh-gurus/guru-nanak-dev-ji.php. Available at: https://www.goldentempleamritsar.org/top-religions-of-the-world/sikhism/sikh-gurus/guru-nanak-dev-ji.php (Accessed: 15 January 2025).
