SIKHISM
OVERVIEW
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, and the basic Sikh belief is that there is “One God ” who is the same God in every religion.
The size of the Sikhs is approximately 30 million worldwide. It is the world's fifth most popular religion. About 700,000 live in the United States. Most Sikhs are in India. However, hundreds of thousands are also in Canada, United Kingdom , Europe, Africa, Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere.
The name "Sikhism" comes from the word "Sikh," which means "a strong and able disciple" in Punjabi ,the original language in Sikhism and Persian.Sikhism is one of the youngest world religions. It was first established in the 15th Century, around 1469 AD, in Punjab, India where most Sikhs can be found today .Part of the original Punjab Provence is in an area which was later partitioned into modern-day Pakistan. Sikhs are now predominant in the India region of Punjab.The word "Sikh" in the Punjabi language means "disciple". Sikhs are the disciples of God who follow the writings and teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus. The wisdom of these teachings in Sri Guru Granth Sahib are practical and universal in their appeal to all mankind.
Many people assume that Sikhism is a type of Hinduism, but it is a totally separate and distinct religion.
It was formed in the spiritual boundary between Buddhism and Islam.Guru Nanak Dev Ji is its founder.His divine calling came when he was about 30 years of age,when God came to him and charged him to to teach mankind to worship the true nature of God through simple prayer,charity, cleanliness and service. He preached a message of love and understanding and criticized the blind rituals of the Hindus and Muslims.He believed that the simple worship of God was sufficient and that there was no need for ritual, pilgrimage and that ascetic practices added nothing to the worship of God. Guru Nanak passed on his enlightened leadership of this new religion to nine successive Gurus all of whom were believed to carry the reincarnated soul of Guru Nanak , but in different bodies. The final living Guru, Guru Gobind Singh died in 1708.
The 11th Guru is a Book ,Before his death in 1708 Guru Gobind Singh declared that the Sikhs no longer needed a living Guru and appointed his spiritual successor as Sri Guru Granth Sahib, his physical successor as the Khalsa, the most holy of the Sikh's books. Guru Gobind Singh felt that all the wisdom needed by Sikhs for spiritual guidance in their daily lives could be found in Sri Guru Granth Sahib,(a book) the Eternal Guru of the Sikhs. Sri Guru Granth Sahib is unique in the world of religious scriptures because not only is it accorded the status of being the spiritual head of the Sikh religion, but besides the poetry of the Gurus, it also contains the writings of saints of other faiths whose thoughts were consistent with those of the Sikh Gurus and it is a book , not a person..
Sikhism has elements of Hinduism and Islam in its beliefs, practices and traditions. Some of its doctrines, such as certain aspects of its teaching on a monotheistic God, reflect Islam more than Hinduism, while other doctrines, such as karma, reflect Hinduism more than Islam. These characteristics result in a distinct religion, but one which has been heavily influenced by other faiths.
Any human being who faithfully believes in: (i) One Immortal Being, (ii) Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh, (iii) The Guru Granth Sahib, (iv) The utterances and teachings of the ten Gurus and, (v) the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru, and who does not owe allegiance to any other religion is a Sikh.
CENTRAL ORGANIZATION
Sikhism does not have priests, which were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh. The Guru felt that they had become corrupt and full of ego. Neither does Sikhism does not have any order of monks or nuns. Sikhs only have custodians of the Guru Granth Sahib (granthi), and any Sikh is free to read the Guru Granth Sahib in the Gurdwara (a Sikh temple) or in their home.
All people of all religions are welcome to the Gurdwara, the building where Sikhs gather to practice their faith. A free community kitchen can be found at every Gurdwara which serves meals to all people of all faiths. Guru Nanak first started this institution which outline the basic Sikh principles of service, humility and equality.
The most significant historical religious center for the Sikhs is Harmiandir Sahib (The Golden Temple) at Amritsar in the state of Punjab in northern India. It is the inspirational and historical center of Sikhism but is not a mandatory place of pilgrimage or worship. All places where Sri Guru Granth Sahib are installed are considered equally holy for Sikhs, but Sikhs believe that there is no need to look for God anywhere other than inside of one's self.
CREATIONIST BELIEF
What Sikhism believe about the creation of the earth is that God created the Sun and the Moon; night and day, they move according to His Will. Many millions are the fields of creation and galaxies. Many millions are the skies and solar systems. Many millions are divine incarnations. He has unfolded Himself in so many ways. He has expanded His expansion of creation many times. Forever and ever, He is the One, the One Universal Creator. Many millions are created in various forms. From God they emanate, and into God they merge once again. His limits are not known to anyone. God exists by Himself.
He established the Earth, the sky and the air, the water of the oceans, fire and food. He created the Moon, the stars and the Sun, night and day and mountains; He blessed the trees with flower and fruits. He created the demigods, human beings and the seven oceans; He established the three worlds (life in water, on land and in the air).
God created the gases and everything came from God’s creation. For example, water came from the gases. When two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom combine, they form water. Life in the ocean, on land and in the air is based on water. Within all life, He has infused His Light, the soul, which is a part of God. God created the entire Universe including the Earth and life on the Earth.
Sikhism says that God created the universe billions of years ago, and the Earth has been evolving ever since. They that God is Self-Created, Indestructible, Unborn, and the Creator of Universe. They believe that Guru Nanak is God and Manifest .They believe that Only God knows who was created first and who will be created last, most likely the first Guru appeared on earth as a fish.
VISION OF GOD
Sikhism is monotheistic, strongly emphasizing belief in one true God. Guru Nanak used the Hindu mystic syllable OM as a symbol of God. He added the qualifications of God as one and creator. In Sikhism God is generous and loving. Like in Hinduism, Sikhs believe that God resides everywhere, in everything and in everyone and the best place to find God is within one's self.
In Sikhism the name of God is Waheguru, Ik Onkaar, Sat Nam or Akhal Purakh. His symbol is the Ik Onkarr and is represented by the following symbol:
DENOMINATIONS
There are the traditional Sikhs,
-The Khalsas, who are baptized and follow the traditional practices of Sikhs who do not cut their hair and wear traditional Sikh clothing;
-The Udasis – An order of ascetics & holy men who follow Guru Nanak's son Baba Sri Chand; and there are
-The Sahajdharis – who are clean shaven, and have chosen to otherwise follow the path of Sikhism.
RELIGIOUS TEXTS
The primary source of authority and doctrine in Sikhism is the sacred book, the Adi Granth, written by Guru Granth Sahib and based on the teachings of Guru Nanak. In the event of disputes, a council is convened at the Akal Takht ("Throne of the Timeless"), a building facing the Harimandir temple in Amritsar. Resolutions passed by this council carry spiritual sanction. Any Sikh is free to read the Guru Granth Sahib in the Gurdwara or in their home.
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Sikhs believe that there is only One God. He is the same God for all people of all religions.
Sikhism forbids the representation of God in images and the worship of idols.
Sikhism retains the general Hindu conception of the universe and the doctrine of samsara, or rebirth, based on karma. Sikhs believe that human birth is the only chance to escape Samsara ( the cycle of birth-dearth and reincarnation) and attain salvation.
Sihks believe that one must Fight 5 evils (5 sins) of Greed, Ego, Attachment, Anger, and Lust.Sikhs meditate, pray, and improve to their relationship with God and that in so doing God will forgive, cleanse, and save you.
As in Islam, the use of statues and pictures are not allowed as considered Idolatry. Pictures of the Sikh Gurus are considered Idolatry and are not accepted from a religious perspective. Gurus are praised as they are considered by Sikhs equivalent to God.
Muhammad is considered a Saint, a guru of time. He is mentioned in Sikhism- but is used to name the guru incarnate of god. Likewise, Buddha is considered an important person in Sikhism. Whereas, Jesus is totally irrelevant in Sikhism.
Sikhs believe that all faiths will get what they work towards. Sikhism does not condemn others to Hell or say if you are not Sikh you are eternally damned. Sikhs pray for the good and prosperity of all Humanity, regardless of differences.
Similar to other religions, Sikhism has been accused of violence, or the glorification thereof, through its history, symbols, art and legend. Sikhs believe that violence is acceptable only as a last resort and that weapons are sacred as they are seen as means to fight so called evil forces or tyrants.
All Sikhs agree that meat of an animal slaughtered slowly with ritual prayers (as in Islam and Judaism) is to be avoided as stipulated in the code of conduct, however some Sikhs interpret the code to say that nothing killed is permitted for food. Sikhism scripture of Guru Granth addresses the state of consciousness is lowered in those who kill animals and eat their meat.
Intoxicants dull the consciousness and impairs judgment. When intoxicated the senses become susceptible to five evil voices and vices of egoism, resulting in addictive behavior and causing separation of the soul from the divine.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
Most Sikh men don't cut any of their bodily hair and wear turbans and beards. Many American Sikh women dress like other Westerners or wear the salwar kameez, a traditional north Indian garment of a long shirt and loose-fitting pants. Like the men, Sikh women do not cut their bodily hair.
Marriage can be arranged or it can be a love marriage. Sikhs are expected to be Monastic and against premarital sex. They see marriage as the merging of two souls which become as one.
As a community, Sikhs set up local places of worship called Gurdwara. Services are held in the morning and evening. Anyone may enter a Gurdwara, however-no matter their faith, caste, or skin color. Personal worship can be done in any place at any time.The true path to achieving salvation and merging with God does not require renunciation of the world or celibacy, but is achieved by living the life of a householder, earning a honest living and avoiding intoxicants of any type.
Orthodox schools prescribe three prayer times a day: at dawn, noon and dusk. Sikhs worship their one God at their homes, with or without a Gurdwara service.
The three Pillars or Rules of Life of Sikhism are:
a) To remember God at all times which includes being thankful to God for what you have been given;
b) To live your life honestly and with integrity; and
c) To Share what you have with those less fortunate.
Sihks believe that, as the Divine light is in all of us, God already knows of our "sins". We are therefore to pray to God for God to forgive us and cleanse us. Only through God and doing Good Deeds in God's name in a way that God is pleased can we obtain salvation-escape from sin.
Sikhs believe that the way to worship the One God is through prayer and devotion. Sikhs are required to meditate on God's name every day and to clear their mind and eliminate the 5 evils: lust, rage, greed attachment and ego. Meditation is also used to bring oneself closer to God.
Like in Islam, the use of statues and pictures is not allowed as considered Idolatry. Pictures of the Sikh Gurus are considered Idolatry and are not accepted from a religious perspective. Gurus maybe praised because they are equivalent to God.
Sikhs believe they are a Religion to be spread by 10 Gurus to preach in order to worship one creator to all people.
Sikh practices are simple, precise and practical guidelines laid out by the Gurus for the practice of the "Sikh way of life". This translates into hard work, honest living, love of fellow humans and through them service of the God, the primal power. This way of life is said to have been stripped of complications, myths, jargon, rituals and exploitation of man by man in the name of religion. No benefits are gained by where and to which family the person is born to – All have to undertake the rigors of Simran (meditation) and Sewa (selfless service) to progress spiritually. The Sri Guru Granth Sahib asks the Sikhs to "Practice truth, contentment and kindness"; this is the most excellent way of life. One who is so blessed by the Formless God renounces selfishness, and becomes the dust of all.
The Sikh is required to undertake the following daily observances:
- Wake up early in the morning.
-Bath and cleanse the body should .
-Cleanse the mind by meditating on God.
- Engage in family life and address your responsibilities within the family.
- Attend to a work or study routine and earn a living by earnest means.
- Undertake to help the less well off with monetary and/or physical help.
- Exercise your responsibilities to the community and take active part in the maintenance and safeguard of the community.
Personal regulations
The" Five Ks" are the articles of faith that Sikhs wear as ordered by the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. Most Sikhs wear one or more of the articles but only Sikhs who have taken amrit, a ritual analogous to baptism, wear all of them. They include:
- Kesh, or unshorn long hair,- which is protected by a dastaar, or turban.
-The dastaar or turban which is worn by men and some women to cover their long hair. However, most women keep their hair long and uncovered, except for when entering a Gurdwara.
- A kangha - a small wooden comb meant to keep the hair combed twice a day.
-A kara - an iron bangle to be worn on the hand used most.
-A kachera i- a specific undergarment for men and women.
- A kirpan - a short dagger.
Sikhs believe that one must also wash the mind clean with Sewa, which is selfless service to the community by doing manual work at the Gurdwara such as cleaning the dishes, washing the floors, painting the walls; by working in Community Centers; and by working in old person’s homes, etc.
Sikhs believe that one must always be kind and merciful to others as ” Kindness” is a virtue that the Sikh have been taught to exercise at all times. Also, to show kindness and mercy to all sentient beings, and realize that the Lord is pervading everywhere; this is the way of life of the enlightened soul, known as the supreme swan.
Become a Gurmukh by doing Good deeds: The Sikh Gurus repeatedly ask the dedicated Sikh to always do good deeds as shown by this verse from the Guru Granth Sahib - "The Gurmukh practices doing good deeds; thus he comes to understand this mind. The mind is like an elephant, drunk with wine. The Guru is the rod which controls it, and shows it the way."
Grounds for barring, boycott, excommunication, or shunning are based guidance of the Sikhism code of conduct and include bad actions such as:
- Abortion and honor killing.
- Dishonest or un-honorable earning.
- Anti-gurmat activities and practices.
-Willful and repeated departure from the Sikhism code of conduct mandates.
Excommunication and reinstatement of an offender can only take place in front of a Panj Pyare, a council of five Sikhs of unquestionable standing.
Sikh Rehit Maryada (SRM) is the Sikhism code of conduct guides every aspect of the Sikhs life whether or not initiated. Sikhs who elect to become Amritdhari initiates are expected to live according to baptismal requirements set in place by Tenth Guru Gobind Singh.
The Khanda is the main Sikh symbol. It is composed of four items, all traditional Sikh weapons,it is represented by:
- A vertical double edged sword with a broad blade, also called a Khanda, symbolizing God's concern for truth and justice
- Two curved swords, called kirpans. They are called miri and piri, after the names given to his personal kirpans by Guru
Hargobind, which signify God's spiritual power.
-A ring called a chakker (aka chakram), representing a ring of steel representing the Unity of God. It is a very effective weapon,
with a range of up to 50 meters (or a 165 feet). (This has been popularized in North America by the television series Xena the
Warrior Princess.) (SEE THE SYMBOL AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE)
Sikhism condemns blind rituals such as fasting, visiting places of pilgrimage, superstitions, worship of the dead, idol worship etc.
Sikhism preaches that people of different races, religions, or sex are all equal in the eyes of God. It teaches the full equality of men and women. Women can participate in any religious function or perform any Sikh ceremony or lead the congregation in prayer.
HOLIDAYS
HEAVEN AND HELL
Sikhs believe that everything is a result of karma. That there is a constant cycle of death and reincarnation until enlightenment is reached. Sikhs believe that there are 8,400,000 forms of life and that many souls have to travel though a number of these before they can reach Waheguru (God). The ultimate goal of life is to merge with God. Sikhs believe that a person will reincarnate until he/she becomes a Sikh and achieves paradise. Sihks believe that only by worshiping God, doing Good Deeds in the name of God and performing service for community one can achieve paradise.
Sikhi believes in the existence of heavens and hells, however, they are not permanent places. A Sikh neither fears hell nor craves heaven. A Gurmukh (one who follows the True Guru) is exempt from heaven and hell and has nothing to do with either of them. Heaven is a mere place for physical or sensual pleasures and is considered very insignificant as a Sikh only wishes to live in the presence of Waheguru (God) regardless of any physical reward. The Sikh concept of ‘Sach Khand‘ (the Realm of Truth) is distinct from the Islamic and Christian concepts of Heaven or the Hindu concept of ‘swarg’.
According to Sikhs, when a human dies, "jam doots" or minions of death come and take the soul to court of Dharam Rai (The Righteous Judge). This is a very painful journey in which the soul of the Manmukh (one without the Satguru) encounters much pain and hardship. Once in the court of Dharam Rai, his account of deeds is read to him and he cannot deny anything. He cries that he did not take advantage of human life and become one with Akaal. He is then given his sentence. This can be a certain amount of time in heaven or hell to receive the fruits of his deeds and then after that time, he is sent back into the cycle of births and deaths. Heaven and Hell are not permanent places. They are not where a Sikh wishes to ultimately go.They are simply transitory places where one receives either pleasure or pain.
Karam Khand is for true devotees of Akaal who have meditated on him and Sach Khand is where Gursikhs go who have meditated on Gurmat Naam and become one with God. Here they are forever immersed in bliss and unity with God and forever sing his praises.
SOCIAL ORDER
Sikhism teaches that men and women are 100% equal in the eyes of God. Women have the exact same rights as men and are to be respected and honored. God loves both equally and neither is better than the other. They do not show any distinction or rank because of race, class, or gender.
Sikhism does not have priests, nuns or monks, all of which were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh. The Guru felt that they had become corrupt and full of ego.
All people of all religions are welcome to the Gurdwara. A free community kitchen can be found at every Gurdwara which serves meals to all people of all faiths. Guru Nanak first started this institution which outline the basic Sikh principles of service, humility and equality.
INITIATION
The Sikh baptism ceremony known as Amrit Sanchar originated with Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. The Panj Pyare, or five beloved ones, administer the Khalsa initiations rites. Vaisakhi Day (Bhaisakhi) is the anniversary of the first Amrit initiation ceremony and is celebrated by Sikhs worldwide in mid-April, around the 14th, and sometimes coincides with the Christian Holiday of Easter..
Amrit Sanchar, the Sikh baptism ceremony, is conducted by the Panj Pyare who administer initiation rites. Initiates kneel while Panj Pyare sprinkle Amrit in the initiate's hair and eyes and give them Amrit to drink. Initiates agree to forswear all other allegiance and follow the Sikhism code of conduct outlined by the Panj Pyare.
Sikhs have an Amrit ceremony established by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru. Many Sikhs prefer the term initiation, rather than baptism, to describe the ceremonial proceedings, feeling it better conveys the concepts, and rituals, involved. All Sikhs are expected to eventually participate in the ceremony. Five initiated Sikhs prepare Amrit, a drink of immortalizing nectar. They recite prayers while stirring sugar into water with a sword. Initiates drink the Amrit. Sikhism teaches that drinking Amrit is essential in overcoming ego, and attaining liberation. Initiates renounce attachments to worldly values, while retaining relations with family and community
While there is no initiation or baptism, any human being who faithfully believes in:
(i) One Immortal Being,
(ii) Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh,
(iii) The Guru Granth Sahib,
iv) The utterances and teachings of the ten Gurus and,
(v) the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru, and;
(vi) who does not owe allegiance to any other religion is a Sikh
PURPOSE OF LIFE
To merge with and have the greatest relationship with God possible. To love and obey God unconditionally. Guru Nanak Dev Ji stressed that a Sikh should not be afraid of God's wrath, but instead be afraid of not receiving the full benefits of God's love.
Sikhs believe that the soul goes through cycles of births, deaths and reincarnation before it reaches the human form. There is no "transmigration" or moving backward ,as into animal form. The goal of life is to lead an exemplary existence so that one may merge with God. Sikhs remember God at all times and practice living a virtuous and truthful life while maintaining a balance between their spiritual obligations and temporal obligations.
CONCLUSION
Sikhism developed in India as an alternative to the harshness of Islam and the complexity of Hinduism. It is said by many the Sikhs are the most peaceful people on Earth. They will avoid violence if at all possible, but if it is not possible they can be fierce fighters as defenders of the families, religion, country and way of life.
They are very recognizable by the big turbans that they wear. Sikhs are often misidentified and misunderstood in the West by the uninformed as Muslims, because of their Turbans, beards and manner of dress, but Sikhs are not Muslims.
Sikhism is a relatively recent religion, developing almost a thousand years after Islam. It incorporates certain beliefs and practices of Islam and Hinduism and has adopted the best of each. As a result it is a religion that generally socializes as gets along well with the rest of the worlds population.
At 30 million followers it is much larger than Judaism (16 million), but much smaller than Buddhism (300 million). It is a growing religion, but the distinct dress of the men in Sikhism is likely to hinder its growth in the West.
Inasmuch, as Sikhism accepts all other religions and people, and because it is a peaceful, non- violent religion that has compassion for and accepts all people, its future looks bright all across the World.
Scott Ramsey
August 29, 2016
OVERVIEW
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, and the basic Sikh belief is that there is “One God ” who is the same God in every religion.
The size of the Sikhs is approximately 30 million worldwide. It is the world's fifth most popular religion. About 700,000 live in the United States. Most Sikhs are in India. However, hundreds of thousands are also in Canada, United Kingdom , Europe, Africa, Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere.
The name "Sikhism" comes from the word "Sikh," which means "a strong and able disciple" in Punjabi ,the original language in Sikhism and Persian.Sikhism is one of the youngest world religions. It was first established in the 15th Century, around 1469 AD, in Punjab, India where most Sikhs can be found today .Part of the original Punjab Provence is in an area which was later partitioned into modern-day Pakistan. Sikhs are now predominant in the India region of Punjab.The word "Sikh" in the Punjabi language means "disciple". Sikhs are the disciples of God who follow the writings and teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus. The wisdom of these teachings in Sri Guru Granth Sahib are practical and universal in their appeal to all mankind.
Many people assume that Sikhism is a type of Hinduism, but it is a totally separate and distinct religion.
It was formed in the spiritual boundary between Buddhism and Islam.Guru Nanak Dev Ji is its founder.His divine calling came when he was about 30 years of age,when God came to him and charged him to to teach mankind to worship the true nature of God through simple prayer,charity, cleanliness and service. He preached a message of love and understanding and criticized the blind rituals of the Hindus and Muslims.He believed that the simple worship of God was sufficient and that there was no need for ritual, pilgrimage and that ascetic practices added nothing to the worship of God. Guru Nanak passed on his enlightened leadership of this new religion to nine successive Gurus all of whom were believed to carry the reincarnated soul of Guru Nanak , but in different bodies. The final living Guru, Guru Gobind Singh died in 1708.
The 11th Guru is a Book ,Before his death in 1708 Guru Gobind Singh declared that the Sikhs no longer needed a living Guru and appointed his spiritual successor as Sri Guru Granth Sahib, his physical successor as the Khalsa, the most holy of the Sikh's books. Guru Gobind Singh felt that all the wisdom needed by Sikhs for spiritual guidance in their daily lives could be found in Sri Guru Granth Sahib,(a book) the Eternal Guru of the Sikhs. Sri Guru Granth Sahib is unique in the world of religious scriptures because not only is it accorded the status of being the spiritual head of the Sikh religion, but besides the poetry of the Gurus, it also contains the writings of saints of other faiths whose thoughts were consistent with those of the Sikh Gurus and it is a book , not a person..
Sikhism has elements of Hinduism and Islam in its beliefs, practices and traditions. Some of its doctrines, such as certain aspects of its teaching on a monotheistic God, reflect Islam more than Hinduism, while other doctrines, such as karma, reflect Hinduism more than Islam. These characteristics result in a distinct religion, but one which has been heavily influenced by other faiths.
Any human being who faithfully believes in: (i) One Immortal Being, (ii) Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh, (iii) The Guru Granth Sahib, (iv) The utterances and teachings of the ten Gurus and, (v) the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru, and who does not owe allegiance to any other religion is a Sikh.
CENTRAL ORGANIZATION
Sikhism does not have priests, which were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh. The Guru felt that they had become corrupt and full of ego. Neither does Sikhism does not have any order of monks or nuns. Sikhs only have custodians of the Guru Granth Sahib (granthi), and any Sikh is free to read the Guru Granth Sahib in the Gurdwara (a Sikh temple) or in their home.
All people of all religions are welcome to the Gurdwara, the building where Sikhs gather to practice their faith. A free community kitchen can be found at every Gurdwara which serves meals to all people of all faiths. Guru Nanak first started this institution which outline the basic Sikh principles of service, humility and equality.
The most significant historical religious center for the Sikhs is Harmiandir Sahib (The Golden Temple) at Amritsar in the state of Punjab in northern India. It is the inspirational and historical center of Sikhism but is not a mandatory place of pilgrimage or worship. All places where Sri Guru Granth Sahib are installed are considered equally holy for Sikhs, but Sikhs believe that there is no need to look for God anywhere other than inside of one's self.
CREATIONIST BELIEF
What Sikhism believe about the creation of the earth is that God created the Sun and the Moon; night and day, they move according to His Will. Many millions are the fields of creation and galaxies. Many millions are the skies and solar systems. Many millions are divine incarnations. He has unfolded Himself in so many ways. He has expanded His expansion of creation many times. Forever and ever, He is the One, the One Universal Creator. Many millions are created in various forms. From God they emanate, and into God they merge once again. His limits are not known to anyone. God exists by Himself.
He established the Earth, the sky and the air, the water of the oceans, fire and food. He created the Moon, the stars and the Sun, night and day and mountains; He blessed the trees with flower and fruits. He created the demigods, human beings and the seven oceans; He established the three worlds (life in water, on land and in the air).
God created the gases and everything came from God’s creation. For example, water came from the gases. When two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom combine, they form water. Life in the ocean, on land and in the air is based on water. Within all life, He has infused His Light, the soul, which is a part of God. God created the entire Universe including the Earth and life on the Earth.
Sikhism says that God created the universe billions of years ago, and the Earth has been evolving ever since. They that God is Self-Created, Indestructible, Unborn, and the Creator of Universe. They believe that Guru Nanak is God and Manifest .They believe that Only God knows who was created first and who will be created last, most likely the first Guru appeared on earth as a fish.
VISION OF GOD
Sikhism is monotheistic, strongly emphasizing belief in one true God. Guru Nanak used the Hindu mystic syllable OM as a symbol of God. He added the qualifications of God as one and creator. In Sikhism God is generous and loving. Like in Hinduism, Sikhs believe that God resides everywhere, in everything and in everyone and the best place to find God is within one's self.
In Sikhism the name of God is Waheguru, Ik Onkaar, Sat Nam or Akhal Purakh. His symbol is the Ik Onkarr and is represented by the following symbol:
DENOMINATIONS
There are the traditional Sikhs,
-The Khalsas, who are baptized and follow the traditional practices of Sikhs who do not cut their hair and wear traditional Sikh clothing;
-The Udasis – An order of ascetics & holy men who follow Guru Nanak's son Baba Sri Chand; and there are
-The Sahajdharis – who are clean shaven, and have chosen to otherwise follow the path of Sikhism.
RELIGIOUS TEXTS
The primary source of authority and doctrine in Sikhism is the sacred book, the Adi Granth, written by Guru Granth Sahib and based on the teachings of Guru Nanak. In the event of disputes, a council is convened at the Akal Takht ("Throne of the Timeless"), a building facing the Harimandir temple in Amritsar. Resolutions passed by this council carry spiritual sanction. Any Sikh is free to read the Guru Granth Sahib in the Gurdwara or in their home.
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Sikhs believe that there is only One God. He is the same God for all people of all religions.
Sikhism forbids the representation of God in images and the worship of idols.
Sikhism retains the general Hindu conception of the universe and the doctrine of samsara, or rebirth, based on karma. Sikhs believe that human birth is the only chance to escape Samsara ( the cycle of birth-dearth and reincarnation) and attain salvation.
Sihks believe that one must Fight 5 evils (5 sins) of Greed, Ego, Attachment, Anger, and Lust.Sikhs meditate, pray, and improve to their relationship with God and that in so doing God will forgive, cleanse, and save you.
As in Islam, the use of statues and pictures are not allowed as considered Idolatry. Pictures of the Sikh Gurus are considered Idolatry and are not accepted from a religious perspective. Gurus are praised as they are considered by Sikhs equivalent to God.
Muhammad is considered a Saint, a guru of time. He is mentioned in Sikhism- but is used to name the guru incarnate of god. Likewise, Buddha is considered an important person in Sikhism. Whereas, Jesus is totally irrelevant in Sikhism.
Sikhs believe that all faiths will get what they work towards. Sikhism does not condemn others to Hell or say if you are not Sikh you are eternally damned. Sikhs pray for the good and prosperity of all Humanity, regardless of differences.
Similar to other religions, Sikhism has been accused of violence, or the glorification thereof, through its history, symbols, art and legend. Sikhs believe that violence is acceptable only as a last resort and that weapons are sacred as they are seen as means to fight so called evil forces or tyrants.
All Sikhs agree that meat of an animal slaughtered slowly with ritual prayers (as in Islam and Judaism) is to be avoided as stipulated in the code of conduct, however some Sikhs interpret the code to say that nothing killed is permitted for food. Sikhism scripture of Guru Granth addresses the state of consciousness is lowered in those who kill animals and eat their meat.
Intoxicants dull the consciousness and impairs judgment. When intoxicated the senses become susceptible to five evil voices and vices of egoism, resulting in addictive behavior and causing separation of the soul from the divine.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
Most Sikh men don't cut any of their bodily hair and wear turbans and beards. Many American Sikh women dress like other Westerners or wear the salwar kameez, a traditional north Indian garment of a long shirt and loose-fitting pants. Like the men, Sikh women do not cut their bodily hair.
Marriage can be arranged or it can be a love marriage. Sikhs are expected to be Monastic and against premarital sex. They see marriage as the merging of two souls which become as one.
As a community, Sikhs set up local places of worship called Gurdwara. Services are held in the morning and evening. Anyone may enter a Gurdwara, however-no matter their faith, caste, or skin color. Personal worship can be done in any place at any time.The true path to achieving salvation and merging with God does not require renunciation of the world or celibacy, but is achieved by living the life of a householder, earning a honest living and avoiding intoxicants of any type.
Orthodox schools prescribe three prayer times a day: at dawn, noon and dusk. Sikhs worship their one God at their homes, with or without a Gurdwara service.
The three Pillars or Rules of Life of Sikhism are:
a) To remember God at all times which includes being thankful to God for what you have been given;
b) To live your life honestly and with integrity; and
c) To Share what you have with those less fortunate.
Sihks believe that, as the Divine light is in all of us, God already knows of our "sins". We are therefore to pray to God for God to forgive us and cleanse us. Only through God and doing Good Deeds in God's name in a way that God is pleased can we obtain salvation-escape from sin.
Sikhs believe that the way to worship the One God is through prayer and devotion. Sikhs are required to meditate on God's name every day and to clear their mind and eliminate the 5 evils: lust, rage, greed attachment and ego. Meditation is also used to bring oneself closer to God.
Like in Islam, the use of statues and pictures is not allowed as considered Idolatry. Pictures of the Sikh Gurus are considered Idolatry and are not accepted from a religious perspective. Gurus maybe praised because they are equivalent to God.
Sikhs believe they are a Religion to be spread by 10 Gurus to preach in order to worship one creator to all people.
Sikh practices are simple, precise and practical guidelines laid out by the Gurus for the practice of the "Sikh way of life". This translates into hard work, honest living, love of fellow humans and through them service of the God, the primal power. This way of life is said to have been stripped of complications, myths, jargon, rituals and exploitation of man by man in the name of religion. No benefits are gained by where and to which family the person is born to – All have to undertake the rigors of Simran (meditation) and Sewa (selfless service) to progress spiritually. The Sri Guru Granth Sahib asks the Sikhs to "Practice truth, contentment and kindness"; this is the most excellent way of life. One who is so blessed by the Formless God renounces selfishness, and becomes the dust of all.
The Sikh is required to undertake the following daily observances:
- Wake up early in the morning.
-Bath and cleanse the body should .
-Cleanse the mind by meditating on God.
- Engage in family life and address your responsibilities within the family.
- Attend to a work or study routine and earn a living by earnest means.
- Undertake to help the less well off with monetary and/or physical help.
- Exercise your responsibilities to the community and take active part in the maintenance and safeguard of the community.
Personal regulations
The" Five Ks" are the articles of faith that Sikhs wear as ordered by the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. Most Sikhs wear one or more of the articles but only Sikhs who have taken amrit, a ritual analogous to baptism, wear all of them. They include:
- Kesh, or unshorn long hair,- which is protected by a dastaar, or turban.
-The dastaar or turban which is worn by men and some women to cover their long hair. However, most women keep their hair long and uncovered, except for when entering a Gurdwara.
- A kangha - a small wooden comb meant to keep the hair combed twice a day.
-A kara - an iron bangle to be worn on the hand used most.
-A kachera i- a specific undergarment for men and women.
- A kirpan - a short dagger.
Sikhs believe that one must also wash the mind clean with Sewa, which is selfless service to the community by doing manual work at the Gurdwara such as cleaning the dishes, washing the floors, painting the walls; by working in Community Centers; and by working in old person’s homes, etc.
Sikhs believe that one must always be kind and merciful to others as ” Kindness” is a virtue that the Sikh have been taught to exercise at all times. Also, to show kindness and mercy to all sentient beings, and realize that the Lord is pervading everywhere; this is the way of life of the enlightened soul, known as the supreme swan.
Become a Gurmukh by doing Good deeds: The Sikh Gurus repeatedly ask the dedicated Sikh to always do good deeds as shown by this verse from the Guru Granth Sahib - "The Gurmukh practices doing good deeds; thus he comes to understand this mind. The mind is like an elephant, drunk with wine. The Guru is the rod which controls it, and shows it the way."
Grounds for barring, boycott, excommunication, or shunning are based guidance of the Sikhism code of conduct and include bad actions such as:
- Abortion and honor killing.
- Dishonest or un-honorable earning.
- Anti-gurmat activities and practices.
-Willful and repeated departure from the Sikhism code of conduct mandates.
Excommunication and reinstatement of an offender can only take place in front of a Panj Pyare, a council of five Sikhs of unquestionable standing.
Sikh Rehit Maryada (SRM) is the Sikhism code of conduct guides every aspect of the Sikhs life whether or not initiated. Sikhs who elect to become Amritdhari initiates are expected to live according to baptismal requirements set in place by Tenth Guru Gobind Singh.
The Khanda is the main Sikh symbol. It is composed of four items, all traditional Sikh weapons,it is represented by:
- A vertical double edged sword with a broad blade, also called a Khanda, symbolizing God's concern for truth and justice
- Two curved swords, called kirpans. They are called miri and piri, after the names given to his personal kirpans by Guru
Hargobind, which signify God's spiritual power.
-A ring called a chakker (aka chakram), representing a ring of steel representing the Unity of God. It is a very effective weapon,
with a range of up to 50 meters (or a 165 feet). (This has been popularized in North America by the television series Xena the
Warrior Princess.) (SEE THE SYMBOL AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE)
Sikhism condemns blind rituals such as fasting, visiting places of pilgrimage, superstitions, worship of the dead, idol worship etc.
Sikhism preaches that people of different races, religions, or sex are all equal in the eyes of God. It teaches the full equality of men and women. Women can participate in any religious function or perform any Sikh ceremony or lead the congregation in prayer.
HOLIDAYS
- Guru Gobind Singh's Birthday - January 5.
- Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, was born in 1666. His birthday is celebrated in December or January. Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa and nominated the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book, as his successor Guru.
- Maghi - January 14.Maghi commemorates the martyrdom of the "Forty Immortals," forty followers of Guru Gobind Singh who had previously deserted him, fought bravely against overwhelming Mughal army forces and were martyred in Muktsar. Guru Gobind Singh blessed them as having achieved mukti (liberation) and cremated them at Muktsar. On Maghi, Sikhs visit gurdwaras and listen to kirtan (hymns). Naturally, the largest gathering is at Muktsar where an annual fair is held.
- Hola Maholla - March 26. Hola (or Holla) Maholla is a mela celebrated in Anandpur on the Indian festival of Holi in memory of Guru Gobind Singh. The Guru instituted this day for military exercises and mock battles, followed by music and poetry contests. The holiday is still celebrated with mock battles and displays of horsemanship and skills with the sword. There are also processions with the Sikh flag and the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Vaisakhi - April 14. Vaisakhi, in April, began as a Hindu festival of thankgiving but for Sikhs, marks the founding of the Khalsa in 1699. Those ready to be initiated into the Khalsa are usually baptized on this day, and the Sikh flag is replaced. Many years Vaisakhi coincides with Easter.
- Martyrdom of Guru Arjan - June 16.Guru Arjan, the fifth Guru, was tortured and killed by the Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1606. His martyrdom is commemorated in May.
- Celebration of the Guru Granth Sahib - his festival, celebrated in August or September, commemorates the completion of the Sikh holy text in 1606.
- Diwali – Varies, Diwali is a Hindu festival of lights that was appropriated by the Sikhs to celebrate the release from prison of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru, from prison in 1619. The Golden Temple was illuminated with lights to welcome the Guru home, and Sikhs continue this tradition by lighting lamps on Diwali each year. The Golden Temple is illuminated with thousands of lights.
- Guru Nanak's Birthday - November 15.Also in October is Guru Nanak's birthday celebration. He was born in 1469 in modern-day Pakistan.
- Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur - November 24.
HEAVEN AND HELL
Sikhs believe that everything is a result of karma. That there is a constant cycle of death and reincarnation until enlightenment is reached. Sikhs believe that there are 8,400,000 forms of life and that many souls have to travel though a number of these before they can reach Waheguru (God). The ultimate goal of life is to merge with God. Sikhs believe that a person will reincarnate until he/she becomes a Sikh and achieves paradise. Sihks believe that only by worshiping God, doing Good Deeds in the name of God and performing service for community one can achieve paradise.
Sikhi believes in the existence of heavens and hells, however, they are not permanent places. A Sikh neither fears hell nor craves heaven. A Gurmukh (one who follows the True Guru) is exempt from heaven and hell and has nothing to do with either of them. Heaven is a mere place for physical or sensual pleasures and is considered very insignificant as a Sikh only wishes to live in the presence of Waheguru (God) regardless of any physical reward. The Sikh concept of ‘Sach Khand‘ (the Realm of Truth) is distinct from the Islamic and Christian concepts of Heaven or the Hindu concept of ‘swarg’.
According to Sikhs, when a human dies, "jam doots" or minions of death come and take the soul to court of Dharam Rai (The Righteous Judge). This is a very painful journey in which the soul of the Manmukh (one without the Satguru) encounters much pain and hardship. Once in the court of Dharam Rai, his account of deeds is read to him and he cannot deny anything. He cries that he did not take advantage of human life and become one with Akaal. He is then given his sentence. This can be a certain amount of time in heaven or hell to receive the fruits of his deeds and then after that time, he is sent back into the cycle of births and deaths. Heaven and Hell are not permanent places. They are not where a Sikh wishes to ultimately go.They are simply transitory places where one receives either pleasure or pain.
Karam Khand is for true devotees of Akaal who have meditated on him and Sach Khand is where Gursikhs go who have meditated on Gurmat Naam and become one with God. Here they are forever immersed in bliss and unity with God and forever sing his praises.
SOCIAL ORDER
Sikhism teaches that men and women are 100% equal in the eyes of God. Women have the exact same rights as men and are to be respected and honored. God loves both equally and neither is better than the other. They do not show any distinction or rank because of race, class, or gender.
Sikhism does not have priests, nuns or monks, all of which were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh. The Guru felt that they had become corrupt and full of ego.
All people of all religions are welcome to the Gurdwara. A free community kitchen can be found at every Gurdwara which serves meals to all people of all faiths. Guru Nanak first started this institution which outline the basic Sikh principles of service, humility and equality.
INITIATION
The Sikh baptism ceremony known as Amrit Sanchar originated with Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. The Panj Pyare, or five beloved ones, administer the Khalsa initiations rites. Vaisakhi Day (Bhaisakhi) is the anniversary of the first Amrit initiation ceremony and is celebrated by Sikhs worldwide in mid-April, around the 14th, and sometimes coincides with the Christian Holiday of Easter..
Amrit Sanchar, the Sikh baptism ceremony, is conducted by the Panj Pyare who administer initiation rites. Initiates kneel while Panj Pyare sprinkle Amrit in the initiate's hair and eyes and give them Amrit to drink. Initiates agree to forswear all other allegiance and follow the Sikhism code of conduct outlined by the Panj Pyare.
Sikhs have an Amrit ceremony established by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru. Many Sikhs prefer the term initiation, rather than baptism, to describe the ceremonial proceedings, feeling it better conveys the concepts, and rituals, involved. All Sikhs are expected to eventually participate in the ceremony. Five initiated Sikhs prepare Amrit, a drink of immortalizing nectar. They recite prayers while stirring sugar into water with a sword. Initiates drink the Amrit. Sikhism teaches that drinking Amrit is essential in overcoming ego, and attaining liberation. Initiates renounce attachments to worldly values, while retaining relations with family and community
While there is no initiation or baptism, any human being who faithfully believes in:
(i) One Immortal Being,
(ii) Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh,
(iii) The Guru Granth Sahib,
iv) The utterances and teachings of the ten Gurus and,
(v) the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru, and;
(vi) who does not owe allegiance to any other religion is a Sikh
PURPOSE OF LIFE
To merge with and have the greatest relationship with God possible. To love and obey God unconditionally. Guru Nanak Dev Ji stressed that a Sikh should not be afraid of God's wrath, but instead be afraid of not receiving the full benefits of God's love.
Sikhs believe that the soul goes through cycles of births, deaths and reincarnation before it reaches the human form. There is no "transmigration" or moving backward ,as into animal form. The goal of life is to lead an exemplary existence so that one may merge with God. Sikhs remember God at all times and practice living a virtuous and truthful life while maintaining a balance between their spiritual obligations and temporal obligations.
CONCLUSION
Sikhism developed in India as an alternative to the harshness of Islam and the complexity of Hinduism. It is said by many the Sikhs are the most peaceful people on Earth. They will avoid violence if at all possible, but if it is not possible they can be fierce fighters as defenders of the families, religion, country and way of life.
They are very recognizable by the big turbans that they wear. Sikhs are often misidentified and misunderstood in the West by the uninformed as Muslims, because of their Turbans, beards and manner of dress, but Sikhs are not Muslims.
Sikhism is a relatively recent religion, developing almost a thousand years after Islam. It incorporates certain beliefs and practices of Islam and Hinduism and has adopted the best of each. As a result it is a religion that generally socializes as gets along well with the rest of the worlds population.
At 30 million followers it is much larger than Judaism (16 million), but much smaller than Buddhism (300 million). It is a growing religion, but the distinct dress of the men in Sikhism is likely to hinder its growth in the West.
Inasmuch, as Sikhism accepts all other religions and people, and because it is a peaceful, non- violent religion that has compassion for and accepts all people, its future looks bright all across the World.
Scott Ramsey
August 29, 2016