How Do Informant Testimonies enhance our Understanding of Sikhism? By Dr Opinderjit Kaur Takhar

Mostly qualitative approach amongst the Sikh community. Informant testimonies are essential in the ethnography employed to enhance an understanding of Sikhs and Sikhism. Mostly qualitative approach amongst the Sikh community. Different responses eg. Caste and Sikhs. “who says there is caste in Sikhism?” “we have endogamous marriages to respect the izzat of families” SPIRITUAL OR PRACTICAL REJECTION? A “conversational” approach leading to areas not considered. Expansion of these. At some point, structured interviews are necessary to gain the information required. Positive and negative aspects of Sikhism from informants, also taboo issues.

Ethical considerations and gaining trust: “we would like to add our hopes that that you would try to search the truth about our community in the course of your research” (Valmikis Coventry). “Surprises” enabling us to rethink theories and conjectures, eg Namdharis and the Adi Granth. Important to interview both community/religious leaders and “lay” members – testimonies gathered here give a bigger picture and help avoid generalisations about an aspect of Sikh belief, praxis or culture. Need to be aware of age and gender sensitivities when interviewing informants, especially if more than one at a time – Sikh cultural norms.

A varied age range of informants gives a very valuable insight into Sikhism. Historical facts validated by older members. Contemporary outlook from younger generation. “Twice migrant” informants may have a different outlook on Sikhism. Different caste groups – who is right? Using titles to gain mutual respect and ethical understanding – beti, uncleji, auntyji, and so on. Informant testimonies and observing communities helps to overcome typical textbook stereotypes of Sikhs.

RE Today Members Support 4 08 “The younger generation of Sikhs are changing: some don’t wear all the 5Ks, but some children respect the faith and wear them all the time. I like the way we worship: it is easy as soon as you get to know it. I like Christian worship too – I like the way they sing and pray. Like us, they listen to their holy book being read. I hear the words of the Guru at worship, and I feel relaxed, calm, and peaceful. I see everyone full of joy and happy. I like it that there’s no lying whatsoever in the Gurdwara.” Jaspreet Kaur is 13. Check the picture on the next slide. Can you say what the emotions and feelings of these two worshippers might be? When do you experience emotions and feelings like these? Copyright ~ For use in your classroom only

Informant testimonies and researcher’s observations are invaluable in constructing current trends and new insights within Sikhism. Like other religions, Sikhism is not static. Comfortable with option of being able to speak in own language – Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.

RE Today Members Support 4 08 In the langar, anyone can eat as long as they are willing to sit with everyone else. Is this an example of God-consciousness in action? Explain what you think. Copyright ~ For use in your classroom only

Active immersion in the group – read their publications, attend rituals and events, participant observation. Differences in practice, eg bhatra and jat INSIDER’S POINT OF VIEW – born into the community or converted (3HO). Issues of ethnicity and culture – Punjabi or non-Punjabi Sikhs? The oral contribution from informants adds a richness to the religious aspect being observed. Sensitivities over food – eating at Valmiki or Ravidasi informants’ home or temple to show respect. Tape recorder or note taking? Camera and camcorder: sensitivities/permission. Sikhs in Nottingham – permission letters.

RE Today Members Support 4 08 Devotion to the Gurus’ teachings can give the worshipper feelings of calmness, spiritual connections to each other, and God-consciousness. Some Sikhs say that worship helps you to serve other people. Copyright ~ For use in your classroom only