Chapter 1: The Teachings of Guru Nanak

History shows that the efforts to confine an enlightened being have resulted in invaluable lessons for humanity. These narratives shine as precious insights, urging us to grasp the profound messages often overshadowed by organized religion.

Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, encapsulated the essence of inclusivity throughout his life. As the son of a merchant, he prioritized humanity over profit. Despite his father's hopes that marriage would change his ascetic nature, Nanak remained unchanged, embracing both worldly affairs and spiritual pursuits as intertwined.

During his 14 years of service in the royal court at Sultanpur Lodhi, he emphasized the unity of humanity, asserting that there is neither Hindu nor Muslim, and that if such distinctions vanish, so too will conflict.

One day, the Nawab and Qazi challenged him. They proposed that if there are no differences, he should participate in the Muslim prayer, Namaz. Nanak consented, but insisted they pray together. While they began their rituals, he stood aside, quietly observing.

Their anger grew. The Nawab accused Nanak of failing to uphold his promise, to which Nanak replied, “You didn’t perform the prayer; how can I follow?” The Qazi retorted, “Was that not Namaz?” Nanak clarified, “You were not engaged in prayer; your minds were elsewhere.”

Awed by his insight into their thoughts, both men recognized the depth of his teachings on inclusivity: to act without bias or self-interest.

Chapter 2: The Legacy of Saint Kabir

Saint Kabir, a contemporary of Nanak, played a pivotal role in the spiritual renaissance of India during the 14th and 15th centuries. Found as an infant in a wooden box on the banks of the Ganges, he belonged to both Hindu and Muslim communities, which embraced him.

Throughout his life, Kabir faced threats from both sides due to his unorthodox teachings. His death sparked a dispute over his last rites, yet legend says his body vanished, leaving only flowers behind.

A poet and philosopher, Kabir's works transcended his time. His core message revolved around non-duality, encapsulated in phrases like “the road of love is too narrow for two.” His philosophy emphasized dispassion, urging followers to navigate life as if it were illusory.

In his time, it was believed that dying in Benares meant liberation, while death in Maghar condemned one to rebirth as a donkey. Kabir, living in Varanasi, chose to die in Maghar, challenging this superstition and asserting that one's life and actions determine liberation, not merely the place of death.

Chapter 3: The Message of Jesus

Jesus’s life exemplified unconditional love, free from judgment. He embodied forgiveness, asserting that love knows no boundaries.

When confronted with a woman accused of adultery, his adversaries sought to trap him. If he advocated for her stoning, they would challenge his teachings on forgiveness; if he opposed it, they would label him a supporter of sin.

In a tense moment, Jesus declared, “Stone her, if you have never sinned.” A profound silence followed, leading to the gradual departure of the crowd, leaving only Jesus and the woman enveloped in the essence of unconditional love.

Thus, the question remains: who among us is without sin?

First, consider subscribing to receive my posts directly to your inbox. You can also support writers like me by joining Medium for just $5 a month, gaining access to a wealth of content and the chance to monetize your own writing.