“He is One and Onkar formed, Adi Purush and Akal.” Who thinks so?

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Points to Remember:

  • Identify the source of the statement “He is One and Onkar formed, Adi Purush and Akal.”
  • Determine the religious or philosophical context of the statement.
  • Explain the significance of the terms “One,” “Onkar,” “Adi Purush,” and “Akal.”

Introduction:

The statement “He is One and Onkar formed, Adi Purush and Akal” is a concise articulation of a core theological concept within Sikhism. It encapsulates the belief in a single, supreme God (Ik Onkar) who is both transcendent (Adi Purush, the primordial being) and immanent (Akal, timeless and deathless). Understanding who believes this requires examining the foundational texts and beliefs of the Sikh faith. The statement itself is not a direct quote from a single source but rather a synthesis of key ideas found throughout Sikh scripture, primarily the Mool Mantar, the opening line of the Japji Sahib, the first composition in the Guru Granth Sahib.

Body:

1. The Source and Significance of the Statement:

The statement draws heavily from the Mool Mantar (मूल मंत्र), which translates to “The Primal Mantra.” This foundational prayer, attributed to Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, reads: “ਇੱਕ ਓਅੰਕਾਰ ਸਤਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਕਰਤਾ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰਵੈਰੁ ਅਕਾਲ ਮੂਰਤਿ ਅਜੂਨੀ ਸੈਭੰ ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥” (Ik Oankar Sat Nam Karta Purakh Nirbhau Nirvair Akaal Moorat Ajuni Saibhang Gur Prasaad). While not verbatim, the statement reflects the core concepts within this mantra:

  • Ik Oankar (ਇੱਕ ਓਅੰਕਾਰ): One God. This emphasizes the monotheistic nature of Sikhism.
  • Adi Purush (ਅਦੀ ਪੁਰਖ): The primordial being, the first created being, the source of all creation. This highlights God’s creative power.
  • Akal (ਅਕਾਲ): Timeless, deathless, immortal. This emphasizes God’s eternal nature.

The statement, therefore, summarizes the Sikh belief in a single, supreme, eternal, and all-powerful God.

2. Who Believes This?

The vast majority of Sikhs believe in this fundamental tenet of their faith. This belief is not just a matter of intellectual assent but is deeply ingrained in their daily practices, prayers, and way of life. The Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, reiterates this concept throughout its hymns and compositions. The statement’s essence is central to Sikh identity and theology.

3. Interpretations and Nuances:

While the core meaning is clear, different Sikh schools of thought may offer subtle variations in interpretation. However, the fundamental belief in the oneness of God, His creative power, and His eternal nature remains consistent. The focus is on the experience of God rather than abstract theological debates.

Conclusion:

The statement “He is One and Onkar formed, Adi Purush and Akal” encapsulates the core belief of Sikhs in a single, supreme God who is both the creator and the eternal, timeless being. This belief, rooted in the Mool Mantar and reiterated throughout the Guru Granth Sahib, is central to Sikh identity and practice. Sikhs, through their faith and daily lives, demonstrate their belief in this fundamental tenet. The statement’s simplicity belies the depth of theological understanding it represents, emphasizing the importance of experiencing the divine rather than engaging in complex philosophical arguments. Promoting interfaith understanding and tolerance, based on the shared values of peace and compassion, is a way forward to foster a more harmonious and inclusive society. This aligns with the Sikh emphasis on universal brotherhood and service to humanity.

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