Sikhism

Guru

• A name for god

• The title of nanak and his successors

• the title of the sacred text

• not the name for a teacher in a religious school for Sikh children

Sri Guru Granth sahib

the central religious scripture of sikhism, considered the living Guru after th 10th human Guru

Khalsa

The “pure” Sikh community that follow strict discipline, including the 5 Ks

• The first to volunteer to be sacrificed

Khalistan

A separatist movement seeking an independent Sikh state in Punjab (primarily active in the 1980s–90s).

Punjab

The northern Indian region where Sikhism originated; the spiritual and cultural homeland of Sikhs.

Rememberance of the Name

Meditating on Waheguru (God’s name) to overcome ego (haumai) and unite with the divine

Hukam

The divine will or order of God; accepting one’s destiny with humility.

Haumai

The ego or self-centeredness, seen as the root of suffering

Three guiding principles

• Guru Nanak’s teachings

• Worship

• Work

  • earning an honest living

• Charity

gurdwara

Sikh place of worship, housing the Guru granth sahib

langar

Free community kitchen

five ks

uncut hair, wooden comb, steel bracelet, ceremonial sword, cotton undergarments

Kesh

uncut hair

acceptance of god’s will

Kangha

wooden comb

discipline and cleanliness

kara

steel bracelet

unity with god and community

kirpan

ceremonial sword

defense of truth and justice

kachera

cotton undergarments

self-restraint and purity