Gurbani and environmental responsibility: Exploring the ecological teachings in the Sikh scripture

Abstract

Over time, we have gradually detached ourselves from nature so much that we have lost touch with our deep connection to it. We convince ourselves that our economies, and even our health, can exist independently without the natural world. In this context, religious and spiritual perspectives can serve as a potent reminder of the earth's sacredness and the sanctity of life. For those who hold religious beliefs, the presence of the Divine is evident in the world and its diverse life forms, which, in turn, deserve our respect and care. The teachings found in our sacred texts reflect the deep interconnection between humans and nature. These scriptures can inspire us to envision and create alternatives ways of living — that honor and preserve this vital relationship. Among all religious beliefs, the Sikh perspective on the relationship between humans and environment, as expressed in the Guru Granth Sahib, is the most comprehensive. It encompasses physical, mental, moral, and spiritual dimensions, recognising that conservation is not just a responsibility but also a form of worship. The hymns in Gurbani are filled with rich imagery of nature, depicting a wide range of natural phenomena such as the weather, seasons, sky, sunrise, morning, clouds, rain, gardens, flowers, trees, woods, rivers, water, and creatures like birds, insects, and animals that demands respect, love, and a sense of relationship, rather than exploitation or destruction. Guru Nanak emphasizes that our mentality is similar to that of a wild elephant, wandering aimlessly in the forest of Maya (illusion), highlighting that our external problems are reflections of our inner state.