History is witness to the fact that when the society was entangled in the web of caste, hypocrisy and superstition, a beam of light gave the message of truth, equality and love to the people. That light was Guru Nanak Dev Ji, whose thoughts are as relevant today as they were 500 years ago. Guru Nanak Dev Ji not only laid the foundation of Sikhism but also gave a new vision to humanity – work, chant the name and wave the wand. His teachings are not limited to religious texts only, but are for every person who is facing confusion, stress or imbalance in life.

1. “Chant the Name”

The first and foremost message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji was Naam Japo, i.e. remembering the Lord all the time. According to him, when a man gets absorbed in the name of God, the ego within him vanishes and stability comes in life. In today’s busy life, when the mind remains distracted, this advice becomes even more meaningful. Chanting the name is not just a form of worship, rather it is a mindfulness practice, where in every breath we connect ourselves with God. When you remember God for a few minutes every day, your thoughts become pure, stress reduces and self-confidence increases.

2. “Do Kirat”

Guru Nanak Dev Ji had said that no work is small or big. Only the person who works with honesty, hard work and dedication follows religion in the true sense. His message is very important for today’s generation, where the desire for shortcuts and quick success is leading everyone astray. Guru Ji says, the person who works hard with his own hands and shares it with others is a true devotee. Don’t worry about the results while working. Because the person who follows the path of Kirat Karo never has to bow before anyone.

3. “Wand Chhako”

“Vand Chhako” means whatever you receive, share it with others. Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that when we share our earnings or resources with the needy, not only is there balance in the society, but the ego within us is also destroyed. In today’s times when people are lost in selfishness and competition, this teaching emerges as the core of humanity. He used to say that the one who has room for everyone in his house is truly rich. Real prosperity lies not just in accumulating wealth but in helping others. This sermon inspires today’s young generation out of a self-centric life and towards a spirit of service.

4. “All in One”

The fourth sermon of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the foundation of humanity, One in all, all in one. He said that God resides in every creature, every human being and every creature. Therefore, to hate or discriminate against someone is to insult God himself. Today, when the society is divided in the name of caste, religion and class, this lesson of Guru Nanak Dev Ji has become more important than ever. He had said, neither Hindu nor Muslim, all are children of the same God. When we see others the same way we see ourselves, then peace, love and unity are born in life.