Preface of the Book 'Mysticism of Guru Nanak' By Dewan Singh

This book on Mysticism of Guru Nanak is a specialized study based on advanced research. So far this recondite subject has remained almost neglected in the field of Sikh studies. I have spent long years of sustained work in probing and finalizing my findings of the subject. But Guru Nanak's mystical thought is so deeply esoteric and beyond human grasp (owing to its divine inspiration and dispensation) that no finality or certainty can possibly be claimed about it. Hence it is at best a tentative and humble contribution on my part. Actually speaking, mysticism involves intuition and realization.

I have tried my best to tap and utilize all the important primary and secondary sources available on the subject. For illustration of thought content I have copiously used Guru Nanak Bani for the reference purpose. Some important abbreviations have been used, as indicated in the list given in the beginning of the book. A Bibliography has also been appended.

Broadly speaking, Guru Nanak's mystical thought has been treated in two parts, the first six chapters dealing with the basic principles of Sikh mysticism, based in Guru Nanak's person and thought and the remaining six chapters bringing forth the mystical path envisaged and postulated by the great Guru.

In the end, I am indebted to Dr. S. S. Kohli, the well-known writer on Sikh thought and philosophy, for some useful consultations and also to the publishers for their careful handling of its publication process.

Table Of Contents Of The Book 'Mysticism of Guru Nanak' By Dewan Singh