For this purpose, Guru Nanak Dev Ji…

For this purpose, Guru Nanak Dev Ji established a dharamshala there and initiated satsang (spiritual congregation). One day, various followers of different faiths began to gather. Some advocated reading scriptures, others insisted on renouncing household life and practicing austerities in forests. Some emphasized pilgrimage, some believed in idol worship, while others had faith in the formless Divine. Some followed rituals and ceremonies, among other beliefs. The question arose—what path and actions please the Divine so that He may bestow His grace upon us and grant us closeness to Him? Guru Ji responded:

"Avar na aukhadh tant na manta।। Hari Hari simran kilvikh hanta।।" (Aasa, Mahala 1, Page 416)

Meaning: The Divine is connected to the mind, not the body. The body is perishable; therefore, in the spiritual realm, its importance is secondary. Whatever religious practices we undertake must involve our mind and consciousness. Hence, we should worship the formless Divine, who resides in every atom, through meditation and remembrance (simran). There is no need for rituals or outward displays. This practice should be carried out while living a household life, fulfilling one's duties daily. This is the true religion through which one can attain the Divine.

The city of Banaras was also renowned for being a hub of saints and great spiritual leaders. Over time, many devotees came there to spread the message of devotion. Among the prominent ones were Ramanand Ji, Parmanand Ji, Kabir Ji, and Ravidas Ji, who had their own spiritual centers (ashrams), which were later continued by their followers after their departure from this world. Their teachings became the foundation of their respective traditions.

Seeing the similarity in Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s philosophy, these saints and their followers gradually came to meet him. The exchange of ideas brought satisfaction to all, leading to a growing sense of closeness. As a result, people from all backgrounds began participating in Guru Ji’s satsang. Guru Ji would daily share his teachings and hymns with them while also listening to the significant compositions of Kabir, Ravidas, Ramanand, and Parmanand Ji. The ones that met the spiritual standards were recorded by Guru Ji in his scripture, which was in the process of being compiled.