Sikhism

Sikhism originated in the Punjab in the 15th century. Its followers trace their tradition back to the lives of Ten Gurus (teachers.) The first of these was Guru Nanak, born of Hindu parents in the Punjab. He grew up in an area where Muslims were in power. His teaching was based on a religious experience of being in the presence of God. He said:"There is no Hindu; there is no Muslim; we are all children of one God." He established a way of life based on the oneness of Godand the equality of all people.

The tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Sikh community (khalsa). After his death there was one more living guru.

The eleventh and last guru is Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh scriptures. This is a collection of hymns of Guru Nanak and sayings of the gurus that were treasured and collected over many years. These are the Sikh scriptures and are treated as the living guru.The Guru Granth Sahib should be kept wrapped in a clean silk cloth, in an elevated position and read reverently.

The Gurdwara is the place of worship, where the Guru Granth Sahib is kept. Any practising Sikh man or woman may perform a ceremony at the gurdwara (Sikh temple).

Sikhs believe in:

  • One God
  • The Ten Gurus and their teachings
  • The Guru Granth Sahib [Holy Book]
  • The rejection of the hierarchy of the Hindu caste system
  • Equality between men and women
  • The oneness of the human race.

There are three rules by which Sikhs live:

  • Remember God
  • Earn one's living by honest means
  • Share with others who are less fortunate than oneself

Other points to note:

Baptised Sikhs (Amritsari) wear the five Ks.These are:

1. Kara: steel bangle. It signifies that the wearer is bound both morally andspiritually to the teachings of the Gurus.
2. Kachha: shorts for chastity and self-respect.
3. Kangha: a small comb for keeping a tidy appearance.
4. Kesh: uncut hair. A spiritual element. (A turban is practical for the situationand is worn out of respect).
5. Kirpan: a small knife or sword, sign of strength. Only to be used in self-defenceor defence of the weak.

Sikh men have the middle name Singh (lion).This can also appear as the last name.

Sikh women have the middle name Kaur (princess).This can also appear as the last name.

Most practising Sikhs will not eat halal meat, cut their hair, gamble, steal, commit adultery, smoke, drink alcohol or take drugs.

Followers: Sikhs

Holy Book: Known as the Guru Granth Sahib and is treated with much respect as a living guru

Main Religious Festivals: Baisakhi and Guru days

Holy Day: No one specific day of the week

Language: Mainly Punjabi, or language of the country of origin

Community Contact:

Sikh Temple
10 Clifton Street
Exeter

Tel: 01392 251753/434323