Page 6 - Gurmat Book 7

Chapter 2: What is Sikh Spirituality?

We will come across the word ‘spiritual/spirituality several times in Gurmat
studies. Spirituality is like a candle that is lit within us. That inner candle

illuminates us with warmth and love that fills our whole beings and spreads the

warmth of joy around us!

Spirituality can also be realization of the candle inside us and that candle being

the same in all forms of creation. It is also about seeking a meaningful

connection with something bigger than you, yourself. Something bigger than us,
for Sikhs is Waheguru.

Spirituality is what may inspire one to live a meaningful life. It deals with making

one’s soul happy and in harmony with the surroundings. For Sikhs the spiritual
goal is to seek unity with the Waheguru and its creation through realizing the

same joq, the same light in everything and everyone. Our Gurus from Guru Nanak

to Guru Gobind Singh Ji had direct communication with Waheguru and through
their poetic writings, known as Gurbani; they have explained to us the paths to

achieve this unity. We also get guidance on this path from the lives of our Gurus
and other great Sikhs.

Guru Nanak taught us the three golden rules of Naam Japo, Kirat Karo and Vand

Chhako as a means to achieve this goal. This also involves inculcating in us the

virtues of compassion, contentment, truthful living. In this book we will study
how in Japuji Sahib, Guru Nanak has laid out a step by step path for us to

achieve spiritual union with Waheguru.

The three golden rules are a good practice. By Naam Japo we feel the presence
of Waheguru in and around ourselves; Kirat Karo teaches to work honestly and

ethically; Vand Chhako teaches us to have compassion and respect for others and
share resources with the needy. These practices make us realize that we all have

the same joq. Life becomes comfortable for ourselves and with those around us.

Spirituality may also be experienced as personal growth through interactions

with Gurbani and Sadh Sangat. Guru Nanak professed that all human beings are

Stepping Stones PSL Gurmat Sikhia Book 7G 2023 Edition Page 4