Living a Life that is God-Centred in Sikhism

This section explains Living a Life that is God-Centred in Sikhism. In Sikhism, the ultimate goal is to break free from the cycle of samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth) and attain mukti (spiritual liberation). To achieve this, Sikhs believe they must live a life that is gurmukh, meaning God-centred, as opposed to manmukh, which refers to a self-centred, ego-driven existence.

The Concept of Gurmukh and Manmukh

The term gurmukh comes from the words "Guru" (the spiritual guide) and "mukh" (face), indicating someone whose face is turned towards the Guru or God. A gurmukh is a person who lives in alignment with God's will, consistently seeking to serve and honour the Divine in all aspects of life. On the other hand, a manmukh is one who follows their own desires, often driven by ego and material pursuits, and lives disconnected from God's teachings.

To break free from samsara and achieve liberation, Sikhs must strive to be gurmukh by embodying specific practices and principles in their daily lives. These principles, as outlined by the Gurus, encourage devotion, humility, and selfless service.

Key Practices for Living a Gurmukh Life

• Accepting God’s Grace and Love A fundamental belief in Sikhism is that everything comes from Waheguru, the one true God. Sikhs believe that to live a gurmukh life, they must recognise and accept the grace and love of God. This acceptance helps them to move beyond their ego and develop humility, acknowledging that everything in life is a gift from the Divine.
• Focusing the Mind on Waheguru Sikhs are taught to keep their minds focused on Waheguru at all times. This practice involves being mindful of God's presence in every action and thought. By constantly remembering and reflecting on God's name, Sikhs cultivate a deeper connection with the Divine, allowing them to live more spiritually conscious lives.
• Meditating on Waheguru’s Name (Nam Japna) One of the central practices for a gurmukh life is Nam Japna — the act of meditating on the name of Waheguru. This repetition of God's name, also called Simran, helps purify the mind and soul. Sikhs believe that through this meditation, they can experience spiritual growth, peace, and a sense of closeness to God. This practice is considered an essential part of daily life, encouraging reflection, mindfulness, and devotion.
• Earning an Honest Living (Kirat Karna) Kirat Karna refers to earning an honest livelihood through hard work and integrity. Sikhs are encouraged to refrain from dishonest means of earning, such as cheating or exploitation, and to provide for their families while contributing positively to society. This principle upholds the value of living a life of integrity, self-reliance, and respect for others, ensuring that one's actions align with ethical and moral standards.
• Giving to Charity and Helping Others (Wand Chakna) The practice of Wand Chakna involves sharing one's wealth and resources with those in need. Sikhs believe that selfless giving is a key component of a gurmukh life, as it demonstrates compassion and generosity. By helping others and supporting charitable causes, Sikhs embody the values of equality, kindness, and social responsibility, which are central to Sikh teachings.
• Performing Selfless Service (Sewa) Sewa, or selfless service, is a central tenet in Sikhism. It refers to the act of serving others without any expectation of personal gain or reward. Sikhs believe that by performing sewa, they are serving God directly, as all people are seen as manifestations of the Divine. Whether through volunteering in the community, helping those in need, or contributing to the welfare of others, sewa fosters humility, compassion, and a deep sense of interconnectedness with all beings.

The Spiritual Significance of Selfless Service

The practice of selfless service is highlighted in a key teaching from the Guru Granth Sahib, which states:

"One who performs selfless service, without thought of reward, shall attain his Lord and Master." (Guru Granth Sahib 286)

This teaching reinforces the idea that spiritual progress is not measured by material success or recognition but by the purity of one’s intentions and actions. Sewa is seen as a way to rid oneself of ego and selfishness, aligning the individual with divine will and allowing them to experience the true essence of God.

Conclusion

To live a gurmukh life, Sikhs must strive to put God at the centre of everything they do. This involves constant remembrance of Waheguru, living honestly, giving to others, and performing selfless acts of service. By embodying these practices, Sikhs believe they can break free from the cycle of samsara, attain spiritual liberation, and live in harmony with God's will. Ultimately, a gurmukh life is one of humility, compassion, and devotion, where the individual seeks to serve God through service to humanity.