By Gurnam Singh | Opinion |
In the realm of philosophical and theological discourse, the dichotomy between theory and practice has long been a subject of debate. While some foreground the importance of inner contemplation, critical reflection, and theoretical development, others advocate for tangible action and practical engagement in the world. However, within Sikh philosophy, this dichotomy is reconciled through the concept of Miri Piri, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between worldly action (Miri) and spiritual reflection (Piri).
The discourse surrounding the balance between theory and action is not a novel one. Contemporary scholars, such as Terry Eagleton, have critiqued the tendency of critical theorists to become ensnared in endless critique, neglecting its potential for tangible social change. Eagleton’s call to move beyond mere critique resonates with the essence of Sikh philosophy, which emphases the importance of both action and reflection in effecting meaningful change in the world.
It is this same concern for practically engaged spirituality that the Sikh Gurus stress the importance of social action. Accordingly, they were heavily critical of the Yogis and Sanyasis who chose renunciation over becoming overly concerned with worldly affairs. According to Guru Nanak, fleeing to the mountains, caves, and jungles was both an easy and cowardly path. Working to liberate humanity from oppressive tyrants and traditions was much more difficult. Yet, it was the chosen path of the Gurus, despite the resistance and violence they had to endure.
Karl Marx’s famous assertion that philosophers have interpreted the world in various ways, but the point is to change it, encapsulates the essence of this debate. Sikh philosophy echoes this sentiment, recognising the necessity of engaging with practical issues while also cultivating a reflective understanding of the world. As Confucius aptly put it, “practice without theory is dangerous, but theory without practice is useless.”
The concept of Miri Piri within Sikh philosophy exemplifies this balance between action and reflection. Miri represents worldly authority and the pursuit of justice and righteousness in the material realm, while Piri signifies spiritual authority and ethical living. In essence, Miri provides the framework for translating theoretical insights into tangible action guided by ethical principles.
Furthermore, the concepts of nirgun and sargun within Sikhi provide additional insight into this dialectic. Nirgun, representing the transcendent and divine aspects of existence, aligns with the reflective dimension of philosophy, delving into the metaphysical and abstract realms. On the other hand, sargun embodies the immanent and creative aspect of the divine, manifesting in tangible forms within the material world. Together, nirgun and sargun form two complementary aspects of ultimate reality, mirroring the unity between theory and practice.
This desire to unify is perfectly captured in the writings of the preeminent Sikh philosopher and scribe Bhai Gurdas. In one of his vaar’s (compositions) he points out that Guru Nanak’s mission was to unite and preach ones, both of thought and action, but also of humanity. In the present age, Bhai Gurdas says that Nanak declared the divine to be manifest both in physical (saragun) and spirit (nirgun) form and that hitherto divided into 4 castes, humanity was deemed to be one. ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਪੂਰਨ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਕਲਿਜੁਗਿ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਇਕੁ ਦਿਖਾਇਆ। ਚਾਰੇ ਪੈਰ ਧਰੱਮ ਦੇ ਚਾਰਿ ਵਰਨਿ ਇਕੁ ਵਰਨੁ ਕਰਾਇਆ।
In essence, Sikh philosophy emphasises oneness and the inseparable nature of action and reflection. Accordingly, meaningful change requires both theoretical understanding and practical engagement. By embracing the concept of Miri Piri and the dialectic between nirgun and sargun, Sikhi guides us to navigate the complexities of the world with non-duality, wisdom, compassion, and ethical discernment. In doing so, it exemplifies the harmonious integration of theory and practice, serving as a timeless reminder of the importance of both action and reflection in the pursuit of a just and equitable society.
Gurnam Singh is an academic activist dedicated to human rights, liberty, equality, social and environmental justice. He is an Associate Professor of Sociology at University of Warwick, UK. He can be contacted at Gurnam.singh.1@warwick.ac.uk
* This is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Asia Samachar.
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