Today, we explore the heart of Sikhism. We cover various concepts like the 5 theives, the beliefs of Sikhism, The 3 Pillars and other interesting aspects of Sikhism!
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Source: GROK
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the late 15th century in the Punjab region of what is now India and Pakistan by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469 CE. Rejecting the caste system and ritualistic practices prevalent in Hinduism and Islam at the time, Guru Nanak emphasized the oneness of God (Waheguru) and the equality of all human beings, regardless of gender, caste, or religion. The faith developed under a succession of ten human Gurus, with the tenth, Guru Gobind Singh, establishing the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE—a community of baptized Sikhs committed to upholding justice and righteousness. After Guru Gobind Singh’s passing in 1708, the eternal Guru was vested in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, which serves as the central religious authority.
Core beliefs of Sikhism revolve around the concepts of Ik Onkar (one God), Naam Japna (meditation on God’s name), Kirat Karna (honest living through hard work), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). Sikhs view life as a journey toward merging with the divine, guided by principles of humility, compassion, and social justice, while rejecting superstition and idol worship. The religion promotes gender equality, with women holding equal status in spiritual and community matters, and it has no formal priesthood, encouraging direct personal connection with God.
Practices in Sikhism include daily prayers, community worship in gurdwaras (Sikh temples), and the langar, a free communal kitchen where people of all backgrounds eat together to symbolize equality. Initiated Sikhs, known as Amritdhari, adhere to the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (ceremonial sword), which represent discipline, cleanliness, eternity, morality, and defense of the weak. Today, Sikhism has around 25-30 million followers worldwide, with significant communities in India, Canada, the UK, and the US, and it continues to emphasize seva (selfless service) as a key to spiritual growth.
