Definition

Proper noun: - The founder of Sikhism: Nanak refers to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru and the central figure who established the Sikh religion in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent in the 15th century. His teachings emphasized monotheism, equality, and devotion to God.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Guru Nanak taught the importance of honest living and remembering God at all times.
  • The birthday of Nanak is celebrated as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, a major Sikh festival.
  • Many stories about Nanak's travels and teachings are collected in the Janamsakhis.

Advanced Usage

• "The teachings of Nanak": This phrase refers to the core principles and philosophy established by Guru Nanak, which form the foundation of Sikhism.
  • The teachings of Nanak reject ritualism and emphasize an inward, personal connection with the divine.

Variants and Related Words

• Guru Nanak: The full and most common respectful title.
• Nanakshahi: Refers to the Sikh calendar, which was implemented based on Guru Nanak's birth.
• Sikhism: The monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak.

Synonyms

• Founder of Sikhism: The primary descriptor of his historical and religious role.
• First Sikh Guru: Denotes his position as the initial spiritual teacher in the Sikh tradition.

Related Phrases

• "Waheguru": The term for God that Nanak used and emphasized in his hymns.
• "Ik Onkar": The central symbol and mantra in Sikhism, meaning "One God," representing Nanak's core monotheistic teaching.

Noun

1. Indian religious leader who founded Sikhism in dissent from the caste system of Hinduism; he taught that all men had a right to search for knowledge of God and that spiritual liberation could be attained by meditating on the name of God (1469-1538)