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Ethico-spiritual
dimensions of Sikh philosophy Guru Nanak’s Bani Guru Nanak
In her well researched and expatiated dissertation Mehrotra has delineated the philosophical and ethical concepts of Sikhism. Although the area of her research is wider, she inevitably draws heavily upon Guru Nanak’s teachings. Chapters like The concept of God, The nature of jiva, and Social Responsibility are worth reading for their interpretative approach and lucid erudition. SS Bhatti is another scholar who has come up with an interesting treatment of Japuji – he uses an architect’s mindset. Not only has he underscored the architectonics of Guru Nanakteachings but also explained the drift of various hymns. You would enjoy Bhatti’s passionate prose as much as original expositions in such chapters as Revelation, Mental Construct for Guru Nanak’s Bani and Guru Nanak’s Revelation. Kharak Singh may not be lyrical but succeeds in conveying to the readers why Guru Nanak is a prophet with a difference. Lamenting the misinterpretation of the Guru and his teachings by assorted scholars Kharak Singh seeks to straighten up the record by providing his interpretations of events and facts. Apart from providing us information on the Guru’s life, times and teachings he acquaints us with his ideology too. In case you are interested in understanding the ethos and philosophy of this one of the youngest organized Indian religions you will find valuable material in these three tomes.
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Starting
influenced
the creed’s evolution. The hymns signalize the unity and uniqueness of
God, a primordial being (Akal Purakh) who is the true lord of the
universe. In his teachings as well as in other Sikh scriptures you find
equal weightage being given to the temporal and the spiritual. It is not
sinful to be materialistic, and it is possible to be spiritual while
performing mundane chores. The hymns indicate the way human beings
should live in this world. Moksha is attained by those who
practice spiritualism without neglecting their duties towards their
families and the society, and adhere to a code of conduct (aachaar)
comprising such values as hard work, charity, and service to humanity.