Story of The Cobra's Shade

Story of The Cobra's Shade

Period: Early Years

Summary: The story of the Cobra’s Shade is one of the most evocative tales from Guru Nanak’s childhood, symbolizing his divine protection and future spiritual significance.

As a young boy, Guru Nanak was known for his deep contemplation and connection to the divine. One day, while resting in the fields near his home in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), young Nanak fell asleep under the open sky. The sun moved across the sky, and the heat intensified. It is said that a cobra appeared and provided shade to Nanak by spreading its hood over his face, protecting him from the harsh sunlight.

A passerby, Rai Bular, the local landlord and a family friend, witnessed this miraculous event. Understanding the significance of what he saw, Rai Bular recognized Nanak’s spiritual eminence. He reported the incident to Nanak’s father, Mehta Kalu, asserting that Nanak was no ordinary child but a divine being with a profound spiritual destiny.

This story is cherished in Sikh tradition as it illustrates the divine protection over Guru Nanak from an early age, foreshadowing his spiritual journey and his role as a spiritual guide for humanity.

The tale not only highlights Guru Nanak’s divine connection but also serves as a metaphor for his teachings: providing shelter and protection to all, irrespective of the harsh conditions of the world, much like the cobra did for him.