Week 9- Sikhism

What is the core of Guru Nānak’s teaching?

God transcends religious labels; true spirituality comes through direct experience, not ritual.

What does the word “Sikh” mean?

“Learner” or student of the Guru.

What are the Five Ks of the Khalsa?

Kesh – uncut hair
Kanghā – comb
Kirpān – sword
Karā – steel bracelet
Kachh – short breeches

What must Khalsa members avoid?

Smoking, adultery, meat not killed in a single strike.

Why is the Guru Granth Sahib considered a Guru?

Declared the eternal Guru by Guru Gobind Singh; treated like a living teacher.

How does Sikhism view karma?

Accepts karma and rebirth, but God’s grace can break karmic cycles.

What is haumai?

Ego or self-centeredness (“I, I”); main barrier to liberation.

What do Nām, Shabad, and Guru represent?

Nām – God’s presence
Shabad – divine Word
Guru – guide who reveals nām

Who is 9th Guru?

Guru Tegh Bahādur

Emphasizes fearlessness.
Refuses forced conversion under Aurangzeb.

Teaches moral courage and religious freedom.

What is the Sikh threefold discipline?

Nām (remembering God), Dān (charity), Ishnān (purity).

What did 3rd Guru – Guru Amar Dās. contribute?

Community expands; strengthens unity.
Founds Goindwāl.
Builds 84-step bāolī.
Requires langar before meeting him.
Establishes festivals and a missionary system.
Compiles early Guru hymns.

What do his “two swords” represent?

Pīrī (spiritual authority) and Mīrī (temporal authority)