Who are Sikhs
Sikhism
A Sikh, derived from the Punjabi term ਸਿੱਖ (Sikh), is someone who practices Sikhism, also known as Sikhi, which means “learning” or “discipleship” of the Sikh Gurus. The English name ‘Sikhism’ is derived from the Punjabi verb ‘Sikhi’, which comes from ‘Sikhana’, which means “to learn” or “to instruct”. Thus, Sikhi refers to the spiritual and moral journey of education and understanding within the Sikh faith, stressing constant learning and growth on the way to spiritual enlightenment and harmony.
Sikhs are followers of Sikhism, a unitary religion that originated in the 15th century in the Punjab region of South Asia, which is presently divided between India and Pakistan. Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and passed down through 10 subsequent Gurus, the last of which was Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who affirmed the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture) as the eternal Guru.
Sikhism stresses spiritual progress through living a sincere and honest life, serving others, and meditating on God’s name. Today, Sikhs can be found all over the world, with large communities in India, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, among others countries.
Sikh Beliefs
Sikh beliefs are based on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the following nine Gurus, who transformed Sikhism into a separate single-faith faith emphasizing equality, service, and devotion. Here’s a full overview of Sikh beliefs:
Oneness of God (Ik Onkar)
The belief in Ik Onkar (literally “One God”) is central to Sikhism. Sikhs believe in a single, formless, and ageless God known as Waheguru. This monotheistic tenet emphasizes the existence of a one supreme deity who transcends all forms and spans the entire cosmos. The belief in Ik Onkar rejects the idea of several deities and emphasizes the oneness and interdependence of all existence under one divine creator.
Guru Granth Sahib as Eternal Guru
Sikhs regard the Guru Granth Sahib as their eternal guru. The Guru Granth Sahib was compiled by the fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and includes hymns and writings by saints and intellectuals from other spiritual traditions in addition to Sikh Gurus. It is regarded as the living embodiment of Sikh doctrine and values, offering Sikhs moral counsel and life lessons. The Guru Granth Sahib is revered by Sikhs beyond all others, and it is the main focal point of Gurdwaras, or Sikh houses of worship, where it is installed ceremonially and treated with great respect.
Equality and Social Justice (Sarbat da Bhala)
Sikhism promotes social justice and equality for all people. The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was adamantly against the caste system and other social injustices that were common in his day. He preached that despite of one’s origins, caste, gender, or creed, all people are created equal in God’s eyes. This idea, often referred to as Sarbat da Bhala, encompasses the advancement of compassion, justice, and tolerance for social variety. In order to promote a just and inclusive community, Sikhs are urged to treat everyone with dignity and to actively work towards their welfare and well-being.
Sikh Identity
The “Panj Kakkar” refers to the five articles of faith worn by initiated Sikhs, also known as Khalsas. They represent a dedication to the Sikh faith and its beliefs. Panj Kakkar are:
1. Kesh:
Uncut hair represents acceptance of one’s original form as created by God.
2. Kanga:
A wooden comb that represents cleanliness and the value of keeping hygiene.
3. Kara:
A steel bracelet that represents an unbreakable tie with God and a dedication to the Sikh community.
4. Kirpan:
A little ceremonial sword that symbolizes the duty to defend the oppressed and maintain justice.
5. Kachera:
Cotton undergarments that represent modesty and purity.
Baptized Sikhs wear these objects as a tangible reminder of their commitment to Sikh values and principles in daily life.
Learn in detail about The Five k’s
Turban (Dastaar)
Sikhs often wear a turban, known as a dastar. In Sikhism, the turban is very important spiritually, culturally, and practically. It represents dignity, sovereignty, and a dedication to Sikh principles like equality and justice. Sikh men and women who practice the faith and follow the tradition of the Five Ks (articles of faith) often wear a turban as part of their religious attire. The turban also covers uncut hair (kesh), which is a symbol of respect for God’s creation and is worn according to Sikh Gurus’ teachings. Thus, for many Sikhs, wearing a turban is an important element of their identity and religious practice.
Learn in detail about Turban (Sikh Dastar).
Daily Routine
• Nitnem:
Sikhs usually begin their day with Nitnem, which consists of five banis (Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Tav Prasad Savaiye, Chaupai Sahib, and Anand Sahib) in the morning (amrit vela), one bani (Rehras Sahib) in the evening, and one bani (Kirtan Sohila) at night. Sikhs recite a set of daily prayers and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib on a regular basis.
• Asa di Var:
It is a morning prayer session in Gurdwaras that includes hymns. These hymns discuss God, how the universe was created, and what it means to be human. People gather together to sing these songs and reflect on love, kindness, and how we are all connected. It’s a tranquil time to contemplate and understand our place in the cosmos.
The Gurudwara
Sikhs primarily worship at Gurdwaras, which serve as communal centers that exemplify Sikh values such as equality, service, and community solidarity. Here’s an in-depth look at Gurdwaras and their role in Sikh worship:
They usually have a unique dome or minaret, which is commonly topped with the Nishan Sahib (Sikh flag), indicating the presence of a Gurdwara from a distance. Upon entering, guests are met with a sense of calm and reverence.
The main prayer hall, or Darbar Sahib, is central to all Gurdwaras. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Sikhism’s holy scripture and eternal Guru, is displayed on a high platform (Takht or Palki) decorated with expensive fabrics and flowers. This platform represents the spiritual authority and respect accorded to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Worship Services
Worship at Gurdwaras is marked by a blend of rituals and community engagement:
- Nitnem: Sikhs do daily prayers in Gurdwaras called as Nitnem, which include morning and evening prayers as well as various devotional melodies.
- Kirtan: The congregational singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the harmonium and tabla, enhances the spiritual environment.
- Katha: Discourses and readings from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji are held to increase awareness and commitment to Sikh beliefs by clarifying its teachings and providing spiritual insights.
Langar: Community Kitchen
Langar, a community kitchen where all guests, regardless of background, receive free meals, is a defining feature of Gurdwaras. This activity reflects the Sikh principles of equality, humility, and communal sharing. Volunteers (Sevadars) oversee the preparation, serving, and cleanup of Langar, exemplifying the Sikh teachings’ primary value of Seva. Langar is not just a source of sustenance, but also a symbol of social equality and solidarity. It draws people together from various backgrounds, instilling a sense of community and solidarity in those who participate.
Learn in detail about the Langar
Three Pillars of Sikh Practice
The three basic principles of Sikhism are stressed, which direct a Sikh’s daily life and spiritual path:
• Nam Japna:
To establish a close relationship with God and achieve enlightenment, Sikhs practice Naam Simran, which is the constant recitation and meditation on God’s name.
• Kirat Karni:
Sikhs are taught to make a living by honest means (Kirat Karni), with a focus on the value of hard work, honesty in commercial dealings, and moral behavior in all undertakings.
• Vand Chakna:
As an essential component of their faith, Sikhs are dedicated to Vand Chakna, which involves sharing with others and executing selfless service (Seva). This entails helping those in need, supporting philanthropic activities, and making contributions to the welfare of the community.
Rejection of rituals and asceticism
Sikhism avoids rituals, superstitions, and ascetic activities that do not promote spiritual growth and service to humanity. Instead, Sikhs are encouraged to lead a balanced life of devotion, work, and community service, pursuing personal growth while constructively contributing to society.