A Brief Introduction to Sikhs and Sikhism

 The word ‘Sikh’ is translated as a disciple, Sikhs are disciples of the 10 human Gurus and the Guru Granth Sahib.  Founder – Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539 CE), born in the Punjab, North India.  GU RU – teacher. Light/dark. Therefore dispeller of darkness (ie IGNORANCE).  Sikhism developed in the Punjab, therefore the majority of the Panth is made up of Punjabi Sikhs. More recently, there have been many western non-Punjabi Sikhs entering the Panth – 3HO (Yogi Bhajan).  Early followers of the Gurus were Punjabi Hindus, the issue of identity is a subject that is a debated topic to the current day also - the constitution of India defines Sikhs as a type of Hindu. The break with Hinduism is a schism that is often debated and very often a sensitive issue.

Who is a Sikh? The Rehat Maryada – which is a guide to the Sikh way of life, defines a Sikh as one who: ““Worships one God only, does not indulge in idol worship. Lives a life based on the teachings of the ten Gurus, the Guru Granth Sahib, and other scriptures and teachings of the Gurus. A Sikh should believe in the “Oneness”of the ten Gurus, and should have no other religion.” [Rehat Maryada p. 12] Namdhari implications of above Constitution of India – “Hindus” Sahajdhari Sikhs – Hindus? (Khushwant Singh)

Symbols/emblems for Sikhism