The versatility of this saint-soldier in composing devotional verses shows the richness of his mind, his spiritual attainment and heroic grandeur. Apart from its mysticism and spiritual depth, the poetry of the Gurus throws light on their contemporary situation. It lays bare the corruption and degradation of the society of their time and stresses the need of social reform and economic uplift. Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh both recommended a just and humane administration, to the then rulers of India. The hymns of the first five Gurus, the ninth and tenth Gurus, show an admirable use of the current figures of speech, apart from their metrical richness and sweetness.
Imagery is used to simplify subtle thoughts and profound concepts.
The images were taken from everyday life and common occurrence. The Gurus were keen lovers of nature and as such, have written glowing descriptions of panoramic beauty and the changes of season. The luminous stars are the pearls. Spiritual truths are conveyed through homely similes. As is the staff in the hand of a blind person, So is, to us, the Name of God.