1. Introduction to Sikhism Based on: Religions of our Neighbors by Sid Bently Photo credit: Retired Justice Choor Singh of the Supreme Court of Singapore

2. Who are Sikhs?  A Sikh is a disciple of Guru Nanak (the founder of the religion.  Photo credit: http://www.justsikh.com/files/images/Guru%20Nanak-800X600.preview.jpg

3. Where did Sikhism begin?  Sikhism began in the Punjab (Northern India and Pakistan)

4. Amritsar and the Golden Temple

5. Amrit  Amrit means nectar and Sikhs baptize using amrit (a mixture of sugar and water, prepared while reciting the word of God).

6. Amritsar  Amritsar means “pool of nectar” and is the lake on which the Golden Temple sits.  Now Amritsar also refers to the city around the Golden Temple

7. When and Why did Sikhism begin?  Sikhism began around 1500 C.E.  Hindus were being persecuted for their faith.  This set the stage for a new faith, a universal faith, to immerge that offered a path for all.  Sikhism was influenced by both Hinduism and Islam.

8. What is Sikhism?  “Sikhism preaches an open and universalist religion. Sikhism is a modern religion. It contains no superstitions and believes in ‘the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man’. Guru Nanak said, ‘As there is only one God and He is our Father; therefore we must all be brothers.” (Bentley, 1983, p. 89)

9. The Khanda

10. Actually a collection of weapons that act as symbols: The kirpan (or sword) on the left represents truth. The kirpan on the right represents the willingness to fight for what’s right. The chakkar (circular weapon) represents the unity of God. There’s only one God, without beginning or end. The khanda (double-edged sword) in the centre represents the power of God.

11. Three Pillars of Sikhism 1. Naam Japna (Focus of God): meditation on God through reciting, chanting, singing and constant remembrance followed by deep study & comprehension of God’s Name and virtues. 2. Kirat Karni (Honest Living): Live a life controlled by spiritual, moral & social values. 3. Vand Chakna (Sharing with Others): Every Sikh has to contribute in whatever way possible to the common community pool.

12. The 5 K’s  All members of the Khalsa (initiated Sikhs) are required to have the “5 Ks” on their person  The Five Ks are:  Kesh (uncut long hair)  Kangha (small wooden comb)  Kara (steel or iron bracelet),  Kacchera (piece of undergarment)  Kirpan (short dagger).

13. History of the Turban from BBC