Guru Nanak- Dr. Giriraj Shah

Nanak, who became "guru" because of his wisdom, teachings and preachings, was born in 1469 AD in the village of Talwandi situated at the bank of Ravi, in the Lahore district of undivided Punjab (now Pakistan). On one side of the house in which guru Nanak was born, there stands now the famous shrine called "Nankana Sahib". His father was Mehta Kalu Chandlo, popularly known as Kalu. His mother was Tripta. Nanak was known as the Prophet of the Punjab and Sind."

Even as child he had a mystic disposition and he used to meditate and talk about Saints and their sermons. He had a contemplative mind and was pious in work, deed and thought. He spent most of his time in meditation and spiritual practice.

Education

Nanak was sent to Gopal Pandha’s School at the age of seven. The teacher gave him a book to read but Nanak replied, "What good it would be to know all and not have a knowledge of God." Then the teacher wrote the Hindi alphabets for him on a wooden slate. Nanak said to the teacher, "Please tell me Sir about the books you have studied? What is the extent of your knowledge." Gopal Pandha replied, "I know mathematics and the account necessary for shop keeping." Nanak replied, "This knowledge will not help you in any way, nor help you in obtaining freedom." The teacher was very much astonished at the words of the boy. He told him, "Nanak tell me something which could help me in the attainment of salvation." Nanak said, "O teacher, burn worldly love, make its ashes into ink and make the intellect into fine paper. Now make the Love of God your pen, and your heart the writer, and under the instruction of your Guru, write and meditate. Write the name of the Lord and his praises and write he has no limit this side or the other O teacher, learn to write this account." The teacher was struck with wonder at the wisdom of child Nanak.

Then Kalu sent his son to Pandit Brij Nath to learn Sanskrit. The Pandit wrote for him "OM". Nanak asked the meaning of "OM". The teacher replied, "You have no business to know the meaning of OM now. I cannot explain to you the meaning." Nanak said, "O teacher—What is the use of reading without knowledge of the true meaning? I shall explain to you the meaning of "OM". Nanak gave an elaborate explanation of the meaning and significance of "OM". The Sanskrit Pandit was struck with amazement.

© "Religions of the World, Gurus, Philosophers, Mystics, & Saints of India" by Dr. Giriraj Shah, published (2002) by Diamond Pocket Books (P) Limited, X-30, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase II, New Delhi 110 020. Website: www.diamondpocketbooks.com. Reprinted with permission.9+8

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