Guru Nanak Ji’s First Business Transaction

Guru Nanak Ji’s First Business Transaction

At the age of eighteen, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji was sent by his father, Bhai Mehta Kalu Ji, to engage in trade. His father hoped that business would not only be a profitable profession but also keep Guru Ji engaged.

On an auspicious day, Bhai Mardana Ji was asked to accompany Guru Nanak Ji. There is a common belief that Bhai Bala Ji also accompanied Guru Sahib, but historical records confirm that no such individual existed as a companion of Guru Nanak Ji.

Guru Nanak Ji’s True Bargain

Pita Kalu Ji gave twenty rupees to Guru Nanak Ji and Bhai Mardana Ji to buy goods for trade. While traveling towards Choohar-khaana, they came across a village suffering from disease and famine. Seeing the suffering of the people, Guru Nanak Ji declared that the most profitable transaction would be to help them. He used the money to buy food and water, laying the foundation of what we now know as Guru Ka Langar.

Misconceptions About Sacha Sauda

Many people mistakenly believe that Guru Nanak Ji used the money to feed a group of hermits (Sadhus) in the jungle. However, Gurbani emphasizes the importance of honest labor and selfless service rather than a life of renunciation.

The third saroop of Guru Nanak Ji in Guru Granth Sahib states:

“Instead of wearing these beggar’s robes, it is better to be a householder, and give to others.” (Vadhans, Ang 587, SGGS)

This highlights that Sikhi promotes working hard and sharing earnings rather than relying on alms.

Lesson from Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s life further reinforces this principle. Once, when a wealthy Sikh offered him water but had never served his own parents, Guru Ji refused to drink from his hands. This aligns with Guru Nanak Ji’s philosophy that selfless service must come from genuine hard work and not be limited to rituals or traditions.

Guru Nanak Ji Faces His Father’s Anger

After spending the money on feeding the poor and sick, Guru Nanak Ji returned empty-handed. Bhai Mardana Ji informed Pita Mehta Kalu Ji about their act of kindness, but he was furious and slapped Guru Nanak Ji for wasting the money. To him, wealth was the only measure of success.

However, Guru Nanak Ji’s act of selfless service proved to be the true bargain of life, setting an example of compassion and charity.

The Gurdwara Sacha Sauda Sahib Today

Gurdwara Sacha Sauda Sahib was built at the site where Guru Nanak Ji performed this selfless act. Today, it stands in Farooqabad, Pakistan, as a symbol of service and generosity.

In interviews with local Muslim residents, an elderly man narrated the story, confirming that Guru Nanak Ji helped the sick villagers and not wandering Sadhus. His act of kindness has inspired Sikhs worldwide to continue the tradition of Langar and selfless service.

The True Bargain of Life

Guru Nanak Ji’s message remains timeless: true wealth is in giving, serving, and uplifting others. His first act of charity laid the foundation of Langar, a tradition that continues in Sikhism, ensuring that no one goes hungry.

Doing good for others defines a Sikh’s path. Sharing one’s earnings and helping the needy is the true bargain of life.

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