1. Other Universalizing Religions
Sikhism
Bahá’í
Adherents
23 million
7 million
Origin
Lahore, Pakistan
Shiraz, Iran
Distribution/
Diffusion
Clustered in the Punjab, India
Spread to every continent
Calendar
Holidays are births and deaths of the ten gurus (historical)
19 months of 19 days
Identifying characteristics
Sikhs ritually wear 5 items, called the Five Ks (in Punjabi) at all times. (uncut hair, small wooden comb, circular bracelet, sword/dagger, and special undergarment). Also turbans
Five-pointed star represents the religion but nine-pointed star more commonly used. Calligraphy of the “Greatest Name” , ringstone symbol.
Holy Places/
Houses of Worship
Golden Temple at Amritsar
9 houses of worship (four continents) open to adherents of all religions. Nine-sided w/scriptural recitals from various faiths.
Main idea (incl. prophet/
founder etc.)
Guru Nanak (ca AD)
Monotheistic, mixes Islamic egalitarianism with Hindu karmic traditions
The Bab (1844 AD)
Establish a universal faith
Gods of other faiths = different manifestations of one true God

2. Golden Temple at Amritsar

3. Bahá’í Temple in North Suburban Wilmette