Guru Nanak: 'I am not the born how can there be either birth or death for me?'

I am not the born how can there be either birth or death for me?

The quote, "I am not the born, how can there be either birth or death for me?" by Guru Nanak, encapsulates a profound understanding of the nature of existence. At first glance, it may seem cryptic and perplexing, but delving into its meaning reveals a deeply insightful perspective on the concept of life and death.Essentially, Guru Nanak challenges the conventional notions of birth and death by suggesting that his true essence transcends these temporal boundaries. He posits that he is not merely his physical body, but instead identifies with something greater, something eternal and unchanging. In doing so, he questions the very foundation of our understanding of being.The significance of this quote lies in its ability to invite us to reflect on our own existence. Often, we are so caught up in the cycle of birth and death, seeing them as inevitable and defining aspects of our lives. However, Guru Nanak's words encourage us to explore the possibility of a reality beyond this binary view.To further explore this concept, let us introduce the philosophical concept of "non-duality." Non-duality is a philosophy that asserts the fundamental interconnectedness and oneness of all things. It suggests that reality is not divided into separate entities, but rather everything is an expression of a single, unified consciousness.In comparing Guru Nanak's quote with the concept of non-duality, we find intriguing parallels. Both challenge the idea of individuality and instead emphasize a deeper, more unified understanding of existence. Guru Nanak's assertion that he is not the born implies an identification with a universal consciousness that goes beyond the limitations of birth and death. Similarly, non-duality suggests that our true nature is not confined to the boundaries of our physical bodies, but rather encompasses the entirety of existence.While Guru Nanak's quote highlights the profound depths of his spiritual realization, the concept of non-duality broadens this perspective even further. It invites us to question the dualistic nature of our understanding, urging us to transcend the limitations of birth and death that confine us. In doing so, we open ourselves up to a broader, more expansive experience of reality.In conclusion, Guru Nanak's quote, "I am not the born, how can there be either birth or death for me?" challenges our conventional understanding of life and death. It encourages us to look beyond the limitations of our physical bodies and explore the possibility of a unified consciousness. By introducing the concept of non-duality, we can delve deeper into this philosophical exploration, realizing that our individuality is merely a temporary manifestation of a greater, interconnected reality. Through this expanded perspective, we may find a profound shift in our understanding and experience of existence.