Title: Guru Nanak Dev Ji: Homage to Saints
Author: Bhag Bhullar
Publisher: Bhag Singh Bhullar
ISBN: 979-8893959109
Pages: 920
Genre: Self-Help / Motivational
Reviewed by: Anthony Avina
Pacific Book Review
One of the most fascinating aspects of religion and cultural beliefs is just how nuanced yet complex each belief system is. With so many competing belief systems in place, and everyone eager to prove theirs is the right path, it is difficult for those who do not have a firm belief system one way or the other to truly know which path is meant for them, if any at all. Something that always seems to pop up though is that while each belief system is unique and special in culture, there are underlying themes and beliefs each religion holds that connect them far more than people realize.
A prime example of a religious text or system that incorporates several different faiths in unison is the Guru Granth Sahib, or the Sikh Holy Scripture that combines the faiths of Hinduism, Muslim, and of course Sikhism. In author Bhag Bhullar’s Guru Nanak Dev Ji: Homage to Saints, the author takes lessons and teachings from 25 prophets from various religions and time periods throughout history to highlight important messages to readers. From enlightening messages from the one true master that allows for an understanding of human potential, to the importance of meditation and so much more, each passage not only explores the culture and belief of this unique manuscript but the practices that apply to modern day Sikhism and beyond.
While not familiar with this faith or culture, what this book did allow the reader to do was explore this rich and distinct culture firsthand. The long and detailed manuscript was a unique lesson in both the Sikh faith and the culture found in the Punjab region of India. The various translations and languages found in this manuscript were so compelling, adding depth to the cultural differences found in this book, yet the unifying message of sanctity and devotion to one’s beliefs was felt in every page of the book.
Whether or not you are a follower of Sikhism and the teachings found in this religious text, those who enjoy non-fiction books that explore different cultures, belief systems, and motivational reads will be instantly drawn to this book. The book also speaks to younger generations of those who do believe in this religious text but have found they do not speak or have not kept up with the language of Punjabi. The various translations of each page and passage will allow younger generations to be able to keep in touch with the Sikh belief system and follow the path their text dictates. The way each text is not only translated and laid out for readers, but also interpreted and given voice, is an inspired way to teach younger generations as well. Such teachings as shading the ego and worldly status were interesting pieces of text, speaking to mankind’s desire for power and a place on the Earthly plane that often leads to one’s own downfall.
