UNIVERSE: We are all human, only human
Guru Nanak’s profound message, ‘Ek Onkar’, is simple to understand. It is the assertion of the oneness of God, which underscores the unity of all creation and reminds us of our shared existence beyond divisions of race, religion, caste, creed, or status.
When we look at the divisiveness caused by “My God, your God”, we have just to remember that there is one God, and we use many names for Him. Indeed, recognising humanity as one is fundamental to our being.
The modern world has made intercontinental travel easy enough, and as we see different parts of the world, we notice the similarities in human experience. We could focus on superficial differences, but we must resist the temptation and seek commonalities.
We saw an architectural expression of this during a trip to Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia. The Universal Temple, or Temple of All Religions, built by Ildar Khanov, a local artist, had religious architectural elements from 16 faiths. The visually arresting diversity in the same building was uplifting. Other trips gave us different insights.
In Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagat Kabir says, “Awwal Allah Noor Upaya, Kudrat Ke Sab Bandey/Ek Noor Te Sab Jag Upajya, Koun Bhalley Ko Mandey/Loga Bharam Na Bhoolau Bhai.” He asserts: “Allah created the Light and made all mortal beings; From the One Light, came the entire universe, so who is good, and who is bad? People, do not get deluded and meander.”
How can we apply these lofty principles in our daily lives? We actively fight the notions that take us on the divisive path. We see other people as human beings — not limiting them to their caste, creed or religion.
In the Indian context, secularism has long been seen as respecting various religious beliefs. Indeed, as children, we often visit friends’ homes without bothering about their religion or caste until the age-old prejudices passed on by elders intrude upon childish innocence. We must cling to this “childish” innocence and not let boundaries creep in where none are necessary.
Of course, there are differences. Guru Nanak emphasised the need to recognise different paths to God. He also stressed following the teachings of one’s religion with diligence and devotion to become a better human. There are instances where he chides those who profess to be religious leaders but are not true to one’s faith.
The Gurus taught us that true peace and happiness comes by following the injunctions of ‘Naam Japna’ (meditation in God’s name), ‘Kirat Karni’ (honest work), and ‘Vand Chhakna’ (sharing with others). These practices foster a life of humility and selflessness, encouraging us to see the Divine in every person and live in harmony with one another. In short, happiness results from living in harmony with oneself and others.
We seek the Divine who is within us. Once we are at peace with ourselves, we are also at peace with the world around us. We are tolerant towards others and more forgiving towards those who fail to meet our expectations. After all, we are all human, only human!
— The writer is a senior journalist
