Vishnu

In Sikhism, the understanding of divine figures such as Vishnu is shaped by the concept of Akal Purakh (the Eternal One or Supreme Being) as outlined in the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Dasam Granth. According to Sikh beliefs, Vishnu, along with other deities such as Brahma and Shiva, are viewed as limited, temporal creations within the vast, all-encompassing form of Akal Purakh. Sikh scripture asserts that countless manifestations of Brahmas, Vishnus, and Shivas exist within the eternal essence of Akal Purakh, who transcends all such forms and remains boundless and beyond human incarnation.

Sikhism on Vishnu

Sikhism emphasizes that while incarnations like Vishnu or Krishna are empowered by divine grace to fulfill specific roles, they do not possess autonomous divinity. In the Guru Granth Sahib, it is described that divine power and knowledge are granted by Akal Purakh to these beings, who perform their duties through this bestowed energy. The Dasam Granth also clarifies that these incarnations are not to be equated with Akal Purakh, for they are temporary beings functioning within the divine creation. Rather, it is Akal Purakh alone who is eternal, uncreated, and unchanging.

The Dasam Granth explains that Vishnu’s powers to sustain and protect creation are attributed solely to Akal Purakh’s will. In instances like the defeat of the demon Ravana by Rama, or Krishna’s slaying of Kansa, Sikh texts interpret these victories as manifestations of Akal Purakh’s divine power. Sikh teachings warn that when incarnations mistakenly believe their power to be self-derived, this ego leads them away from the Supreme Source, thereby diminishing their divine grace. Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the Dasam Granth highlights this concept, explaining that all acts of might displayed by incarnations are due to the power of Akal Purakh, the ultimate source of all creation.

Sikh teachings discourage the worship of avatars like Vishnu or Krishna as the Supreme Being. Rather, Sikhs are encouraged to recognize Akal Purakh as the only omnipotent force deserving of worship. Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the successive Gurus emphasized that all beings, including divine incarnations, are subject to time and death, whereas Akal Purakh alone is eternal and unchanging. Through the invocation of Satnaam (the True Name), Sikhs connect with the singular, timeless Creator, who transcends all forms and incarnations.

The Guru Granth Sahib and the Dasam Granth regard Guru Nanak Dev Ji as the unique Guru Avatar, embodying the complete divine light and serving as the true guide to salvation in this age of Kalyug. Guru Nanak and his successors are viewed as the conveyors of Akal Purakh’s grace, transmitting the ultimate salvation through the Guru’s teachings rather than through avatars or prophets from other religious traditions. This understanding is rooted in the principle that true liberation is attainable solely through the grace of Satnaam, bestowed by the Guru.

Sikh scripture reiterates that Akal Purakh is the eternal Supreme Lord, who is without form, fear, or enmity and is beyond birth and death. In the Savaiye hymns, the divine power in incarnations like Vishnu is described as temporary and subordinate to the limitless reality of Akal Purakh. Consequently, Sikhs are taught to view Vishnu and other avatars as part of Akal Purakh’s creation, respecting their roles in the cosmic order but focusing their devotion solely on Akal Purakh.

Through these teachings, Sikhism upholds a monotheistic belief system, recognizing the singularity and supremacy of Akal Purakh, who alone possesses the full and eternal divine power transcending all avatars and incarnations.

Reference

wikipedia