About the Sikh Religion
With 25 million followers worldwide, Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in Punjab India about 500 years ago. Approximately 500,000 Sikhs live in the US today, with the largest communities being on the East and West coasts. Read on to learn about the basic beliefs of the Sikh religion.
The Beginnings
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that was founded in Punjab, India by Guru Nanak Dev ji* in the 1500s. Originally born in a Hindu family, Guru Nanak ji began preaching about universal equality in a time when India was fiercely divided by discrimination and hate. His core message was that there is one eternal God who is the creator of the whole universe and that all living beings are God's children and thus deserve to be treated with love and respect. The term "Sikh" means student and refers to the fact that followers of Sikhism are always learning how to be better people and to serve others.
*"Ji" is an honorific suffix that denotes respect
A painting of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Photo Credit: https://www.allaboutsikhs.com/sikh-gurus/sri-guru-nanak-dev/
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The Sikh Gurus
Following Guru Nanak Dev ji, there were nine more human Gurus, or spiritual teachers. The tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh ji, founded the Khalsa Panth and gave Sikhs their recognizable identity. Instead of continuing the cycle of human gurus, Guru Gobind Singh ji gave Sikhs Guru Granth Sahib ji, their holy scripture and guide that contains the hymns written by the Gurus as well as writings from Hindu, Muslim and Sikh saints. Guru Gobind Singh ji told his Sikhs to revere Guru Granth Sahib ji as they would him and that with faith, they will see the light of all the Gur's in Guru Granth Sahib ji.
Guru Granth Sahib Ji at a Gurdwara
Photo Credit: Kaur, Inni, et al. Sikhi - Faith & Followers. Sikh Research Institute, 2014.
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Vaisakhi and the 5Ks
The Sikh holiday of Vaisakhi commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Panth. On April 13, 1699, Guru Gobind Singh baptized his followers present with amrit, or holy water. The Panj Pyare, or five beloveds, were the first Sikhs to take amrit from Guru Gobind Singh ji. Guru ji stated that all Sikhs who take amrit would either take the surname Singh (meaning lion), for males, or Kaur (meaning princess) for females. He also stated that all Sikhs would need to maintain the Panj Khakhars, or 5Ks: kesh, kangha, kirpan, kara, and kachera. After giving amrit to the Panj Pyare, Guru ji knelt and requested that they baptize him into the Khalsa Panth as well.
Kesh
Kesh is uncut hair. Sikhs choose not to cut their hair as a part of their unique identity so that they stand out. Sikh men and some women cover their hair with turbans or scarves.
Kanga
A Kanga is a small wooden comb and symbolizes the necessity to keep oneself clean and tidy.
Kirpan
A kirpan is a small dagger and represents standing up for what is right. It is only to be used for self defense or protection of the weak.
Kara
A kara is a steel bangle typically worn on the right (or dominant) hand as a a reminder to always do the right thing
Kachera
Kachera are cotton undershorts that represent modesty and chastity.
Amritdhari Sikhs, or Sikhs that have taken amrit, are expected to follow the above traditions and are also expected to complete their nitnem or daily prayers. Today, amrit is given by any five devoted Amritdhari Sikhs, male or female, who represent the Panj Pyare. The decision to partake in amrit is one that should be made by the individual and is not to be taken lightly.
The Three Pillars of Sikhism
Given to Sikhs by Guru Nanak Dev ji, the three pillars of Sikhism are guidelines that every Sikh should live their lives by.
Kirat Karo
Sikhs are supposed to earn their livelihood with integrity and through honest work and with integrity. Sikhs are forbidden from gambling because that money is not earned through hard work.
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Vand ke Chako
Sikhs are supposed to share a part of their earnings with those who are less fortunate. The concept of seva, or selfless, service is extremely important to Sikhs. It is always important to do whatever you can to help others who are in need.
Naam Japo
Lastly Sikhs are supposed to chant and meditate on God's name: Waheguru. In doing so, Sikhs are supposed to live in rememberance of the creator.
Gurdwaras
Sikh places of worship are called Gurdwaras (also Gurduara, Gurudwara) which literally translates to "the doorway to the Guru." Gurdwaras are marked by a Nishan Sahib, or the Sikh flag that consists of a blue khanda on an orange background. As the hearts of Sikh communities, Gurdwaras are where religious services are conducted and can also be the site of community meetings and programs for children and families. Most Gurdwaras in the US have a regular Sunday diwan or service that includes the singing of hymns and katha or religious discourse. Following the diwan, everyone is encouraged to take part in langar or a free communal meal where everyone sits together on the floor in rows and is served the same food, reinforcing a core belief of Sikhism: universal equality.
People of all faiths are encouraged to visit gurdwaras and take part in the diwan and langar. Visitors need take off their shoes at the door and cover thier head before entering, as is required as signs of respect. As with most religious places, it is necessary to dress modestly (cover shoulders and legs).
