Sikhism

Sikhism – Beliefs Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world. It is a distinct religion with its own unique, divine scriptures and beliefs. The Sikh religion originated in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century by Guru Nanak Dev. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion. Sikhism advocates equality for men and women of every race and religion. Combines many Hindu philosophies with Islamic belief.

Sikh Distribution There are over 30 million Sikhs worldwide. Sikhs live in just about every major country around the world. The vast majority of Sikhs live in the Punjab, a part of northern India. There are over one million Sikhs in the United States and Canada. Sikhs have lived in North America for over 100 years.

Spiritual Leader The Guru Must discipline their lives and live according to certain moral principles. It must be the object of each member to be a credit to his particular group, be it social or religious. There is generally a goal, to achieve which generally requires study, guidance or discipline.

Founder Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539) First Guru of the Sikhs. Founder of Sikhism. Preached the equality of all humans. Guru Nanak said that all people are the children of one God. Guru Nanak spoke against tyranny, social injustice, religious hypocrisy, empty rituals and superstitions. Emphasized strict monotheism in his teachings (One God).

Holy Texts Guru Granth Sahib The Guru Granth Sahib is the holy book of the Sikhs. It is the eternal spiritual guide of the Sikhs. The hymns provide broad guidelines for harmonious living. Compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, it has writings of the Sikh Gurus and other saints. It contains a total of 5867 hymns in 1430 pages.

Prayer Prayer is performed three times a day, and the seven prayers are prescribed word-for-word for each part of the day.

Rebirth Sikhs believe in reincarnation (samsara), and that life destinies are determined by the accumulation of one’s good and bad deeds (karma), much like Hinduism. Although Guru Nanak had great sympathy with Islam, he accepted the Hindu idea of rebirth rather than the idea of one earthly life followed by either heaven or hell.

Sikh Symbols of Faith Sikh men and women cover their heads at all times as an expression of respect to their Gurus. The Sikh turban symbolizes discipline, integrity, humility, and spirituality. The turban is a mandatory part of Sikh faith, not a social custom, or a hat that can be easily taken on or off.

Sikh Turban

Basic Beliefs The Oneness of God, God’s name Obedience Brotherhood Service Humility Tolerance Gratitude and non-attachment Courage and purity

Holy Days Vaisakhi is a long established harvest festival in the Punjab. It is celebrated at the occasion to transform Sikhs into a family of soldier saints, known as the Khalsa Panth Diwali celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison in 1619