Study Notes on Sikhism

A Brief Introduction to Sikhism

Introduction
What is Sikhism?
Beliefs and Practices of the Sikhs
History of the Sikh Gurus
Excerpts from the Sikh Holy Book

CHAPTER 1: Introduction

The universally acknowledged function of religion is to protect society from social and moral degradation, guiding its destiny towards the greatest good for the largest number of people. Religion promotes the finer aspects of life and strives to idealize society. Historically, humanity has sought a universal religion, one that transcends dry philosophical doctrines and is founded on inner realization and social altruism. Whenever universal human values decline, religion is seen as failing in its duty to guide society. More unifying a religion is and the more it serves humanity, the closer it is to achieving its aim. Sikhism emerged in the 15th century as an attempt by Guru Nanak to forge a universal religion, recognizing all who love God and serve humanity. A Sikh respects all faiths, and this principle was exemplified by Guru Nanak, who, despite social strife, maintained friendships with individuals of different backgrounds. All Sikh Gurus followed this principle of inclusivity, which is encapsulated in the Guru Granth Sahib, an anthology containing writings from diverse authors, serving not just Sikhs but all of humanity. Sikhs view the entirety of the human race as a united family under one God. [ ext{Duncan Greenlees characterised Sikhism: “a practical way of life, leading man straight to his goal, and not involving verbose theorizing.”} ]

CHAPTER 2: What is Sikhism?

Sikhism is a way of life that marries self-discipline with belief in the unity of God, the equality of humankind, faith in the Guru's word, and love for all. A Sikh's journey begins with the acknowledgment of God's existence and worship directed solely towards Him. The ultimate aim is to emulate the merging of existence: "Water mingles with water, and the light merges with light, discarding their separate existences." Salvation is linked not only to faith but also to virtuous character and a commitment to active good, as emphasized by Guru Nanak: "Life without virtue runs to waste." Every Sikh aspires to eliminate negative traits like lust, anger, greed, pride, and worldly attachment, replacing them with their virtuous counterparts. To progress spiritually, Sikhs must engage in three-fold service—physical, mental, and material—reflecting Guru's command: "Those who work hard and share their honest earnings with others tread on the true path." Practical training occurs in Gurdwaras through voluntary service, reinforcing community values and virtues. The aim is to serve with selflessness, expecting no reward for acts of service in this world or the next. The Guru's teachings guide Sikhs towards surrendering ego and acting in God's will, highlighting the importance of prayer and remembrance of God.

CHAPTER 3: Beliefs and Practices of the Sikhs

Question 1: What is the Sikh view of God?

Sikhs believe in God as a timeless, omnipresent entity who existed before time began and will persist throughout eternity. God is characterized as "Truth," the creator and sustainer devoid of biological attributes, and His essence fills all beings.

Question 2: What is the Sikh concept of the birth of our Universe?

According to Sikhism, the universe emerged from the omnipresent Lord expressing His will, leading to a sequence that birthed elements—air, water, and life.

Question 3: What is the reality of the universe?

The universe is created through God's will and is not eternal like Him. It exists as a temporary manifestation of divine reality, just a shadow of the Creator, meant to follow His laws.

Question 4: What is the reality of the human soul?

The soul is a fragment of God, similar to water beads originating from the ocean, which upon leaving the body transforms back to the divine. The human experience is clouded by material attachments, yet through spiritual pursuits, one can reclaim divine traits.

Question 5: Do Sikhs believe in transmigration of the soul?

Yes, Sikhs hold that the soul evolves through deeds, experiencing the consequences of its actions through the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Question 6: What is the fate of those who fail to deserve God’s Grace?

Those who fail to earn God’s grace suffer the consequences of their egoistic tendencies, resulting in a cycle of birth and rebirth until redemption through self-realization and spiritual awakening mediated by a true Guru.

Question 7: Was Guru Nanak God?

Guru Nanak is revered as a Messenger of God but is not regarded as God Himself.

Question 8: Is it necessary to have a Guru?

Yes, a Guru is vital in guiding disciples towards enlightenment and self-realization, bridging the gap between the seeker and the divine.

Question 9: How does a Guru help his disciple?

A Guru enlightens the disciple, shaping them into embodiments of divine virtue and guiding them towards realization of their true nature.

Question 10: Whom do Sikhs call a saint?

A saint in Sikhism is one who embodies divine love and devotion, transcending ritualistic practices and serving humanity selflessly.

Question 11: Are there any saints in Sikhism?

Yes, certain individuals such as Kabir and Ravidas are recognized for their contributions and devotion to the teachings of Sikhism.

Question 12: What is the attitude of Sikhism towards other religions?

Sikhism acknowledges the goodness of all religions, viewing them as diverse paths towards the same truth and encourages rational exploration without disparaging other faiths.

Question 13: How does Sikhism differ from other religions?

Sikhism uniquely rejects idol worship, the caste system, and emphasizes direct relationship and understanding of God without intermediary priests.

Question 14: Is salvation possible only through Sikhism?

No, Sikhism encourages piety and good deeds irrespective of the religious practices of the individual, emphasizing that various paths can lead to salvation.

Question 15: Do the Sikhs believe in miracles?

Sikhs deem a pursuit of miracles as a distraction from spiritual growth and focus instead on sincere devotion and selfless prayer.

Question 16: What is the code of conduct for the Khalsa?

The Khalsa maintains strict adherence to worshiping only God and not engaging in rituals tied to other faiths. Key principles include honesty, equality, and dedicated service to humor.

Question 17: What is the significance of the five Ks?

Each K (Kesh, Kara, Kirpan, Kachha, Kangha) represents core values and responsibilities of a Sikh, shaping both identity and ethical conduct.

Question 18: Is it necessary for a Sikh to keep unshorn long hair and a turban on his head?

Yes, long hair symbolizes faith and adhering to the Guru’s commandments, while the turban serves to maintain dignity and respect.

Question 19: Why did Guru Gobind Singh bring militarism into Sikh religion?

The militarization is a continuation of Guru Nanak’s ideals, empowering Sikhs to resist oppression, growing from previous instances of conflicts against tyranny.

Question 20: How does one become a Sikh?

Becoming a Sikh involves accepting the Guru's teachings and participating in the baptism of the sword, embracing the identity and responsibilities ascribed in Sikhism.

Question 21: Is western culture bringing about degeneration in Sikhism?

Cultural influences can sway faith, although the foundation and principles of true Sikhism remain resilient.

Question 22: Do the Sikhs believe in caste system or untouchability?

Sikhism expressly rejects caste discrimination, promoting equality through the institution of Langar.

Question 23: Is there a priestly class in Sikhism?

No, Sikhism opposes any hierarchical clergy, promoting equality and enabling any knowledgeable Sikh to lead services.

Question 24: What is the status of women in Sikhism?

Women enjoy full equality, participating actively in religious and social domains without restrictions laid by cultural traditions.

Question 25: How do the Sikhs solemnize marriage?

Marriages occur in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, thus marrying under the divine guidance of their holy scripture.

Question 26: Do the Sikhs arrange the marriages of their sons and daughters?

The tradition of arranged marriages exists but is not strictly mandated or religiously prescribed and is evolving.

Question 27: How is Sikhism reacting towards modern advances in science?

Sikhism encourages the integration and respect for scientific progress while emphasizing moral and ethical living.

Question 28: What are the ceremonies observed by the Sikhs?

Ceremonies are limited, focusing on significant life events like baptism, marriage, and death, recognizing their shared humanity.

Question 29: Are there any special days on which the Sikh children must absent themselves from school?

While there are no mandated days, observance typically varies based on family traditions around significant Sikh holy days.

Question 30: Is there any restriction of dress for the Sikhs?

Sikh dress is considered respectful, with specific symbols required for committed Sikhs, though general attire can be flexible.

Question 31: Are there set times of prayers for the Sikhs?

No set prayer times exist; however, the recitation of specific hymns throughout the day is encouraged.

Question 32: Are there any feast or fast days for the Sikhs?

Sikhism does not mandate feast or fast days; observance is personal and often in response to health or social contexts.

Question 33: Are there any restrictions regarding food?

Food must be prepared cleanly, and Sikhs are prohibited from consuming ritually slaughtered meat or intoxicants.

Question 34: Are there any religious injunctions that may render certain types of employment non-acceptable to the Sikhs?

Sikhs favor honorable work but will refuse jobs demanding hair removal or substance abuse.

Question 35: What is the place of voluntary service in Sikhism?

Service is central in Sikhism, performed selflessly as part of communal practice, ranging from manual tasks to intellectual contributions.

Question 36: How does Sikhism react towards love?

Love is essential in Sikhism, embodying the divine connection with God and among humanity, emphasized over passion or desire.

Question 37: What is Sikhism’s reaction towards music?

Sikhism embraces music, particularly Kirtan, as an integral component of spiritual practice enhancing devotion and love.

Question 38: Are there any sects in Sikhism?

Yes, there are several sects within Sikhism, with primarily superficial differences based on interpretations and subsequent teachings.

Question 39: Can you tell us about the scriptures of the Sikhs?

The principal scripture is the Guru Granth Sahib, a compilation of hymns from the Gurus and various Saints, seen as the eternal Guru after the last human Guru.

Question 40: Which places are sacred for the Sikhs?

All Gurdwaras housing the Guru Granth Sahib are sacred, with special reverence for locations tied to the Gurus' lives, notably the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Question 41: What is Sarbat Khalsa?

An assembly representing the entire Sikh populace making decisions for the community, historically meeting twice a year, reestablished in recent times.

Question 42: How do the Sikhs see environmental degradation in the world?

The teachings of Sikhism offer guidelines for caring for the environment, emphasizing moderation and respect for nature as part of one's duty to God.

Question 43: Do the Sikh Gurus say anything about politics?

The Gurus urge political action rooted in spiritual principles, advocating integrity in leadership and condemning exploitation and division.

Question 44: What is the Sikh view of education?

Education should aim to build character and moral virtue rather than merely wealth; teachers are crucial in shaping the nation.

Question 45: Do the Sikhs believe that their Gurus will return to earth?

No, the teachings emphasize the permanence of their philosophies embedded in the Guru Granth Sahib rather than the physical presence of any Guru.

Question 46: Do the Sikhs believe in heaven and hell?

Sikhs do not endorse a literal interpretation of heaven or hell, suggesting that virtuous living leads to divine communion, transcending fear or desire for an afterlife.

Question 47: Do the Sikhs consider that Sikhism is the only true religion?

While Sikhs believe in the veracity of their path, they acknowledge the sincerity of other religions and do not label them as false.

Question 48: Do the Sikhs believe in the existence of soul?

Sikhs affirm the soul as a divine spark, essential to spiritual existence, seeking to purify it through good deeds and prayers.

Question 49: Do the Sikhs believe in the existence of Devil?

Sikhism has no concept of a devil, viewing human shortcomings as personal failings to be controlled.

Question 50: Can you sum up Sikhism in a few words?

Sikhism advocates human equality, denies privileges attributed to casta, race, or gender, emphasizes a singular divine entity, and prioritizes social service as vital to spirituality.

CHAPTER 4: History of the Sikh Gurus

The Sikh religion traces its roots back to the birth of Guru Nanak in 1469, amidst societal hardship characterized by religious intolerance, oppression, and moral decay. The Gurus sought to challenge hegemony, advocate for justice, and dismantle caste distinctions. Guru Nanak's teachings laid the groundwork for a movement focused on equality, devotion, and service to humanity, fundamentally opposing idol worship and blind rituals while promoting direct access to God for individuals from all backgrounds.

CHAPTER 5: Excerpts from the Sikh Holy Book

The Guru Granth Sahib encapsulates the essence of Sikh beliefs, painting God as creator and sustainer devoid of lineage or desire, promoting ethical living and social harmony, while decrying materialism and emphasizing the purity of heart and intention. The narrative values education, mutual respect, and the performance of selfless service, urging followers towards the cultivation of divine Love, positioning it as essential to spiritual fulfillment.