Authenticity of Kartarpuri Bir - Global Sikh Studies

love. Because in the religious environment of the times woman
was looked down upon as a potential temptress.
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9. The brotherhood of man
The brotherhood of man is a natural corollary of the
Guru’s experience of God is Love. Since in all the Hindu
systems the hierarchical caste ideology was a scripturally
accepted doctrine, the question of the equality of men could
not arise. But Guru Nanak, after his revelation started his
mission with the words, “There is no Hindu nor Musalman”,
meaning thereby that he saw only man without distinction of
caste, class or creed. And his life long companion during his
tours was a low-caste Muslim. As against it, in Vaisnavism of
Ramanuja the principle of pollution was so basic and important
that a Vaisnava not only cooked his own food, but threw it
away altogether if while cooking or eating it another person
cast a glance on it. 37 The Guru said the spiritual path could be
trodden not by mere words and talk, but by actually treating
all men alike and as one’s equal.
10. Work is a religions duty
Once the principle of assessment on the basis of deeds
and the responsibilities of a householder are accepted, work
becomes a part of man’s religious duty. The Guru says, “The
person incapable of earning his living gets his ears split (i.e. turns
a Nath Yogi) and becomes a mendicant. He calls himself a Guru
or a saint. Do not look up to him, nor touch his feet. He knows
the way who earns his living and shares his earnings with others.” 38
The Guru deprecates the Yogi who gives up the world and then is
not ashamed of begging at the doors of householders. 39
11. Sharing of wealth
From the principle of brotherhood of man follows
naturally and essentially the idea of sharing one’s income with
one’s fellow beings. The Guru says, “God’s bounty belongs to
all. but men grab it for themselves.” 40 “Man