The Mool Mantra, the opening verse of Japji Sahib, encapsulates the essence of Sikh philosophy and serves as the foundation of Guru Nanak’s teachings. It reads:
"Ik Onkar, Sat Naam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhau, Nirvair, Akaal Moorat, Ajooni, Saibhang, Gur Prasad." Each word carries a profound meaning:
Ik Onkar: There is one universal creator. This asserts the oneness of God, transcending all distinctions of race, caste, or creed.
Sat Naam: The name is truth. God’s essence is eternal truth, guiding us toward a truthful life.
Karta Purakh: God is the creator and the doer—the cause of all causes and the effect of all effects. Not only does the Divine create everything, but God is also actively involved in every action and reaction within the universe. Every movement, every consequence, and every change is an expression of the divine will. As the Doer, God is not detached from creation but is constantly engaged with it, shaping all existence.
Nirbhau: God is fearless, beyond any fear, inspiring inner strength and confidence.
Nirvair: Without hatred. The divine love is impartial and universal.
Akaal Moorat: Timeless form, beyond the limits of time and space.
Ajooni: Unborn, not bound by birth or death.
Saibhang: Self-illuminated, existing by itself without any external cause.
Gur Prasad: The realisation of these truths comes through the Guru's grace.
The Mool Mantra is a guide for living a life of truth, fearlessness, and compassion, recognising the divine presence in every action and being. Through the Guru’s grace, one can realise this oneness and live in harmony with the eternal truths of the universe.
