All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2023 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (28-May-2023)

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, propagated a simple yet profound philosophy centered on universal brotherhood, equality, and devotion to one God. His major teachings include 'Ik Onkar' (one God), emphasizing monotheism and the oneness of all humanity, transcending caste, creed, or religion. He vehemently rejected the caste system and gender discrimination, advocating for 'Sarbat Da Bhala' (welfare of all) and promoting equality through practices like 'Langar' (community kitchen) where everyone eats together. He stressed 'Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chakho' – meditation on God's name, honest labor, and sharing earnings with others.

These teachings hold immense relevance today. In a world fraught with religious extremism, social inequality, and economic disparities, Guru Nanak's message of monotheism and universal brotherhood offers a powerful antidote to divisive ideologies. His emphasis on honest living and sharing promotes ethical capitalism and addresses economic disparities. The concept of 'Langar' remains a potent symbol of selfless service and social inclusion, providing a model for community welfare amidst rising individualism. His advocacy for gender equality and rejection of caste are timeless principles crucial for fostering an inclusive and just society globally.

Answered By:

Anushka Goel

Anushka Goel is a dynamic exam mentor who has cracked multiple competitive exams including CUET, NDA, IBPS Clerk, RRB Office Assistant and SSC CHSL. With a strong academic record and a strategic approach to exam preparation, she has mentored thousands of students in their early career journey. Anushka is known for curating smart, concept-driven MCQs and study resources that closely align with actual exam trends.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view.

  2. "Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individuals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour." Explain the key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions. Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context.

  3. Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment?

  4. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it, do not become others." — Swami Vivekananda

  5. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work." — Sardar Patel

  6. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "In law, a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics, he is guilty if he only thinks of doing so." — Immanuel Kant

  7. "The concept of Just and Unjust is contextual. What was just a year back, may turn out to be unjust in today's context. Changing context should be constantly under scrutiny to prevent miscarriage of justice." Examine the above statement with suitable examples.

  8. "It is not enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it; and it is not enough to believe in it, one must act upon it." In the present context, the major weapon industries of the developed nations are adversely influencing continuation of number of wars for their own self-interest, all around the world. What are the ethical considerations of the powerful nations in today's international arena to stop continuation of ongoing conflicts?

  9. "Mindless addiction to Form, ignoring the Substance of the matter, results in rendering of injustice. A perceptive civil servant is one who ignores such literalness and carries out true intent." Examine the above statement with suitable illustrations.

  10. The soul of the new law, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is Justice, Equality and Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of major shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system.


Important Questions from GS4

  1. The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view.

  2. "Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individuals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour." Explain the key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions. Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context.

  3. Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment?

  4. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it, do not become others." — Swami Vivekananda

  5. Given below is a quotation of great thinker. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context? "Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work." — Sardar Patel

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
UPSC CMS
August 02, 2026
IAS Exam
August 21, 2026
UPSC SO Steno
December 12, 2026
Test Series
IAS img
UPSC
UPSC CSE (IAS) 2027 Prelims Mock Test Series
654 Tests 3 Tests Free
688 Attempts
4.8(182)
English, Hindi

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App