Guru Nanak The founder of Sikhism, one of the first ten Sikh gurus. Date of Birth: 15.04.1469 Country: India

1. The Founder of Sikhism: Guru Nanak
2. Early Life and Education
3. Spiritual Awakening and Visions
4. Missionary Journeys
5. Marriage and Children
6. Core Beliefs and Principles
7. Succession and Legacy

The Founder of Sikhism: Guru Nanak

Guru Nanak, born on April 15, 1469, is the founder of Sikhism, a religion that emphasizes love, service, and unity with God. He is among the ten Sikh Gurus, venerated by Sikhs as divine messengers with a portion of God's divinity.

Early Life and Education

Nanak was born in a village near present-day Lahore, Pakistan, to Mehta Kalyan Das Bedi, a revenue accountant, and his wife Tripta Devi. He had an elder sister, Nanaki, who played a significant role in his spiritual journey. At the age of seven, Nanak was enrolled in a traditional village school where he displayed remarkable wisdom and insight.

Spiritual Awakening and Visions

In his early 30s, Nanak experienced a profound vision that changed the course of his life. He disappeared for three days, and when he returned, he began to preach a new religion that rejected caste distinctions and emphasized the importance of love and devotion.

Missionary Journeys

Nanak embarked on four major pilgrimages throughout his life, covering thousands of kilometers. These journeys were crucial to spreading the teachings of Sikhism and establishing a network of followers. He traveled to eastern India, southern India, Kashmir, and westward to Baghdad, Mecca, and Medina.

Marriage and Children

Nanak married Mata Sulakhni at the age of 16, and they had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakhmi Chand. Sri Chand founded the ascetic Udasi sect, while Lakhmi Chand lived a householder's life.

Core Beliefs and Principles

Nanak's teachings emphasize the unity of God, the importance of truthful living, and the practice of devotion through meditation and the recitation of God's name. He rejected idol worship, superstition, and self-centeredness, instead advocating for a life of service and compassion.

Succession and Legacy

Upon his passing in 1539, Nanak designated Angad Dev as his successor. The line of ten Sikh Gurus, each inheriting Nanak's divine authority, continued to guide and inspire the Sikh community. The teachings of Guru Nanak and his successors form the foundation of Sikhism, a religion that now has millions of adherents worldwide.