In a previous Clergy Corner, I endeavored to illustrate that Truth is the fundamental thread weaving together Interfaith Diversity into a single human fabric. However, shortly after submitting the piece to The Daily Democrat, I found new inspiration in a verse by Guru Nanak:
"Truth is higher than everything, but higher still is truthful living."
This profound insight highlights that despite our materialistic approaches to disseminating religious teachings, the world continues its swift descent toward self-destruction. Nations are increasingly embroiled in unending conflicts, and mental health issues plague our so-called developed societies.
This raises the crucial question: how do we live a truthful life? Recently, a WhatsApp message featuring a respected Sikh preacher enumerated ten evils that obstruct our path to truthful living.
The first four evils stem from our tongue: speaking insipid words, slandering, gossiping, and falsehood. The next three relate to our physical actions: stealing, infidelity, and violence. The final three reside in our minds: jealousy, deception, and evil thoughts.
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal and sovereign Guru of Sikhs, contains numerous verses condemning these evils, which have plagued humanity. Only a few blessed souls are free from such vices.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, undertook extensive travels, covering 17,000 miles over 24 years from Punjab. During these journeys, he engaged in spiritual dialogues with Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Jains, Sufis, Yogis, and Siddhas, consistently advocating for truthful living.
When asked by Muslim clerics in Mecca whether Hindus or Muslims were greater, Guru Nanak replied that without good deeds, both would be left to weep and wail.
Living a truthful life is a divine blessing, achieved through prayers offered with complete surrender to the Almighty. This involves acknowledging that our soul and body entirely belong to Him rather than hypocritically feigning devotion. Genuine prayers for the welfare of all humanity, selfless service, and contemplation of Naam (Meditation) in the company of the blessed on a continuous basis are key to attaining this blessing.
A Sikh's daily conduct is guided by three principles: earning a livelihood through honest means (Kirt Karo), sharing earnings with the less fortunate (Vand Chhako), and continuously remembering God (Naam Japo).
Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Sikh Guru, eloquently articulated in one of His verses:
"Of what use is it if one sits and meditates like a crane with closed eyes? If he bathes at holy places spread across seven seas, he loses both this world and the next. He spends his life performing evil actions and wastes it in such pursuits. The truth is, he who is absorbed in True Love will realize the Lord."
In a world beset by turmoil and strife, the call to live truthfully resonates as both a challenge and a beacon of hope.
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